
Michelle Fussell
Michelle is an experienced and accredited therapist offering counselling for adults, couples, and children and young people (aged 3 to 18)
She works with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, bereavement, relationship difficulties, and neurodiversity.
Michelle blends Psychodynamic Therapy with approaches such as CBT, Person-Centred Therapy, and creative methods to suit each client’s needs.
With over 10 years in private practice and a background in fostering, youth work, and play therapy, she provides a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to make lasting positive changes.
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MBACP Registered Accredited
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UK Register of Counsellors and Psychotherapists
View Michelle's Upcoming Availability
Next available: Wed 6 May · 15:00 · next 2 weeks
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In-person at Guildford
About Michelle
Hello, my name is Michelle and I am a fully qualified therapist based in Guildford.
I provide a warm and safe environment where you can feel comfortable sharing what is on your mind. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy or you have had counselling before, I understand it takes courage to reach out, and I aim to offer a space where you feel heard, respected, and supported to make meaningful and lasting changes.
While I originally trained as a Psychodynamic therapist, I work in an integrative and flexible way to suit your individual needs. I often incorporate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to explore how your thoughts and feelings influence your experiences and behaviours. Together, we can work towards a more positive way forward from challenges such as anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, or work-related stress.
At the start of our first session, we will talk through your hopes and goals for therapy. It is completely fine if you are unsure what these are, we can explore this together. My approach is structured yet flexible, ensuring the process is tailored to support you effectively.
Working with Children and Young People
I also work with children and young people aged 3 to 18 and have over 22 years of experience in play therapy, alongside a background in fostering and youth work.
With younger children, I use creative and play-based approaches to help them express their thoughts and feelings in a way that feels natural and comfortable.
For older children and teenagers, sessions feel more like talking therapy, with the option to use creative techniques where helpful. There is no expectation to engage in “play”, the focus is on helping each young person feel at ease and able to open up at their own pace.
I begin with a parent consultation before working directly with the child, ensuring that support is appropriate and tailored from the outset.
Please note that sessions for young children are offered face to face only.
View Michelle's Upcoming Availability
Next available: Wed 6 May · 15:00 · next 2 weeks
Step 1 — Choose how you would like to meet
Times below update based on your choice. You can change this anytime during checkout.
Step 2 — Pick a time
In-person at Guildford
Background & Experience
I have over 10 years of experience in private practice, where I have specialised in trauma, neurodiversity, and family work. My professional journey also includes working within the court system on divorce matters and qualifying as an adoption counsellor. This extensive background allows me to offer deep insight and specialised support to clients facing complex life transitions or historical trauma.
Before qualifying as a counsellor, my career included 18 years as a youth worker and six years as a residential social worker. I have also worked as a foster carer. These roles have given me a wealth of experience in supporting people from a wide range of backgrounds and situations, which I bring into my current practice to help clients navigate their own unique challenges.
Works with Children & Young People
Michelle is qualified and experienced in supporting children and young people across the following age ranges:
Ages Seen
How I Can Help
I will provide a safe, confidential space where you can explore your concerns openly, fostering validation and understanding.
I will utilise evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to identify any unhelpful thought patterns and develop more adaptive responses.
I'll guide you in challenging negative thinking and engaging in behavioural experiments to build new coping skills and perspectives.
Together, we will establish clear, achievable therapeutic goals, ensuring a structured and effective path towards your desired mental well-being.
I will equip you with practical, personalised strategies to effectively manage problems you may be experiencig such as anxiety, depression, anger or the pressures of daily life.
We will explore proven cognitive restructuring and behavioural techniques, empowering you to achieve lasting positive change.
View Michelle's Upcoming Availability
Next available: Wed 6 May · 15:00 · next 2 weeks
Step 1 — Choose how you would like to meet
Times below update based on your choice. You can change this anytime during checkout.
Step 2 — Pick a time
In-person at Guildford
Specialisations
Therapeutic Approaches
What I Can Help With
Qualifications
- PGDip in Counselling
Professional Memberships
- British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
View Michelle's Upcoming Availability
Next available: Wed 6 May · 15:00 · next 2 weeks
Step 1 — Choose how you would like to meet
Times below update based on your choice. You can change this anytime during checkout.
Step 2 — Pick a time
In-person at Guildford
Ready to start your journey with Michelle?
Take the first step — book a confidential session today.
Book a Session with Michelle