Dr Susan Murray
Member Status: Accredited
Member No: NCS15-02289
Location: Aberdeen
As an experienced counsellor and psychologist I can offer you a safe and confidential space to explore any issues which are causing you distress. I use an integrated approach with therapy, calling on elements of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy, transactional analysis and person centered therapies tailoring them to suit your personal needs - it is my belief that regardless of the approach, it is the strength of the therapeutic relationship that is the key to recovery.
Our aim when working together will be to build a relationship based on trust and respect, where you can feel valued, supported and listened to so that you can work through your difficulties at your own pace without fear of being judged,moving towards a place of harmony and balance in your life.
I have helped people overcome problems like low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, stress, mental health issues, work and personal relationship difficulties and have specialist knowledge of the emotional aspects of eating disorders, body-image and weight management. I also offer specific courses of Stress Management Training which includes sessions on whole body relaxation, breathing techniques and managing unhelpful or negative thinking patterns using CBT techniques.
Our first meeting is an opportunity to find out if we 'fit'. I think finding the 'right' counsellor is a bit like shopping for new shoes - you may have to try out a few to find a good fit - and that's ok! Your recovery towards a pleasurable life depends on finding a therapist you can connect with and trust.
To help you decide whether I might be a good fit for you, here is a little personal info about me:
Local to the Aberdeenshire area I have always enjoyed working with people and have lots of 'life' experience. I started out fulfilling a childhood ambition with a career in nursing before circumstances led me to the challenge of starting up and running a small business in the oil industry.
Then, in 2002, having successfully dealt with my own obesity issues with the help of counselling, I began my own journey into a career in counselling and psychology where I can once again focus on 'people'. My quest to understand why change can be so challenging for many of us led me to study psychology and health behaviour change at length at the University of Aberdeen where I first obtained an honours degree and subsequently a PhD in psychology and it can be helpful to combine this knowledge with my counselling experience when I'm working with clients.
I have a grown up family, step-children and grand-children and have experienced all the trials, tribulations, joy and lessons that combining families can bring. In my spare time I enjoy walking my dog, gardening, travelling and spending time with my partner and family.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
