Your stories

Coming to a Talking Therapies service can feel like a daunting task. Many people tell us they were worried about how to explain how they were feeling, and were unsure what help was available. We have asked some people who have used our service to tell us about their experience. We hope that this can provide an understanding of what leads people to get in touch, and inspire people to take those first important steps towards feeling better. 

The people we asked have given us permission to publish their words, sometimes under a different name to protect their privacy. We would like to extend our warmest thanks to those who have taken the time to share their experiences.

I was very sceptical about having counselling for my anxiety, depression and intrusive thoughts. I can’t thank Lucy enough. The sessions have really helped me, I’ve gone from barely being able to leave the house, to going out, socialising, shopping and even short bus journeys. Thank you so much.

I attended a Sutton Uplift Workshop, which I found I engaging. All presenters were very patient, friendly and knowledgeable. I found the slides colourful, helpful and very informative. Great to know workshops are held online, as group sessions or on a 1 to 1 basis. Many thanks.

I just wanted to let you know regarding a recent 10 week CBT group I have attended. Both therapists persevered with me during the early sessions, as I originally was not sure how the treatment would help/apply to my presenting issues and mental state! But as the group progressed, I started to find parts of it very helpful, I may have ad-libbed a little with how some of the uses of online slides were probably meant to help. I made my own sense of it with the help and encouragement of both therapists! As the group reduced in regular attendees, I found it was by chance a blessing as the remainder of us received more time to relay our feelings and to encourage each-other in our progress and achievements.

As the weeks went on it became apparent I was possibly in need of some support for PTSD. I have today been contacted to tell me I have been accepted for this treatment and was being put on a waiting list to attend. I continue to improve day by day, small step by small step. I'm not sure if you often receive any additional feedback after treatments have come to an end for individuals? So this is a big thank-you to you and your staff. 

It was amazing! My employment coach was the best. She helped me believe in myself and my dreams and opened me up to new ways of finding work and how to seek different avenues for different roles and careers. She was ready each and every time and always called me on time. She had so much patience for me whenever I forgot our appointment and she treated me with kindness each and every time. She helped build my passion and drive and she even followed up to see how I was and helped give me some pointers for even after I finished my sessions with her. I cannot thank her enough, she is so good at what she does. Thank you and I will definitely recommend Sutton Uplift due to her.