Sarah Bayford is a counsellor in Woking and online


What attracted you to become a therapist? 

I wanted to use my life experiences to help others in similar situations. Specifically developmental trauma, anxiety and grief.


Where did you train? 

I trained at the University of Greenwich


Can you tell us about the type of therapy you practise?

I work integratively; this means using several therapy styles in order meet the client where they are at. Fundamentally I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the healing dynamic for anyone that I have the privilege of helping.


How does your therapy help with issues stemming from childhood? 

My type of therapy eases difficult and traumatic childhoods. I love working with the attachment styles my clients come to me with. I find it so rewarding aiding them through these very painful and often suppressed emotions.


What sort of people do you usually see? 

The people I help often come with presenting issues such as anxiety, PTSD, depression, complicated grief and specific anxiety disorders.


What do you like about being a therapist? 

I absolutely love seeing people learn how to set themselves free from the prison of their unhealthy coping mechanisms. I love offering people complete unconditional positive regard and a safe space to help them on their path to healing.


What is less pleasant? 

I find dealing with money can be interesting! I also dislike the chance of causing a rupture in the therapeutic relationship, however it can be a really useful tool to implement some healing in the conflicts that arise.


How long you’ve been with welldoing.org and what you think of us?

I have been with welldoing.org for about five months now. I am impressed with the notification of the interest a new potential client has made. Welldoing.org has provided me with all my contacts to date.


Do you ever suggest books or apps to clients? 

Yes! Books are so helpful. I often recommend Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffries. This book has had a major impact on my own life



What you do for your own mental health?  

I make sure I prioritise my mental health, especially during these unprecedented times. I make sure I get enough sleep and aim to eat as healthily as I can! Taking my dog out for a long walk does wonders as well.


You are a therapist in Woking. What can you share with us about seeing clients in that area?

The work I do at present is online or via telephone. I have clients who are from all kinds of different areas. One of my clients was phoning me from Portugal!


What’s your consultation room like? 

It's a work in progress! When we can see clients face-to-face again, I have a lovely garden cabin that I rent.


What do you wish people knew about therapy? 

That it is not as daunting as you may think it is! It's probably the single best investment you can make for yourself.


What did you learn about yourself in therapy? 

Hmmmm where to begin?! I learnt that I have choices and that I am not limited to my conditioned belief systems. I found my voice and am now learning to use it through assertiveness, rather than being passive/aggressive.


Contact Sarah here

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