Ilona Smith

I am an integrative therapist which means I integrate different theoretical approaches to meet your unique and individual needs. Fundamentally my approach is humanistic, or person-centred, which recognises that everyone, regardless of their life experiences, can develop a deep sense of self-worth, purpose and meaning.

Life can be challenging at times which can leave us feeling emotionally distressed, anxious, disconnected and overwhelmed. I offer you a safe space to reflect on yourself whilst receiving compassion, empathy, acceptance, honesty and support. Embarking on a journey of healing and self-discovery is one that takes courage, but the rewards are fruitful and can have a lasting impact on your life.

I believe that everyone, regardless of their life experiences, can heal from the challenges and traumas that life brings our way.  Difficulties such as work-related stress, relationship problems, abuse, trauma, loss, addictions, sexuality and identity issues can cause emotional distress, depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem, a lack of confidence as well as physical pain and illness. The Therapeutic relationship offers you connection, compassion and acceptance which are essential for personal growth, healing and a sense of inner calm.

I qualified as a therapist in 2009 and since then have worked as a therapist, group work facilitator and trainer. I have over 16 years experience of working with survivors of abuse and trauma. I am an experienced group work facilitator and spent 6 years delivering group work programmes to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. I have written and delivered training to health care professionals working with trauma. I am a qualified clinical supervisor and a Mental Health Nurse. I have spent over 25 years supporting adults and children to overcome personal suffering, to heal and to develop a sense of empowerment over their own lives.

I personally engaged in therapy in my 30's and found the therapeutic process to be profoundly life changing. This experience taught me the true power of healing through connection. The realisation that inner turmoil can be overcome with the right support inspired me to re-train as a therapist and re-ignited my passion to help others feel whole and integrated.

The Therapy Space

Choosing an environment for your therapy sessions that feels comfortable for you will help you to feel safe and more able engage in your therapy fully. I offer telephone, online and face to face counselling from a risk assessed venue. I also offer therapy sessions at selected locations outdoors which provides you with an opportunity to experience a deeper connection with yourself and with nature whilst being supported to explore your inner most thoughts and feelings. Cornwall provides us with a beautiful environment in which you can experience the healing powers of nature. We can walk and talk or sit in a beautiful location depending on your needs and preference.

Choosing a counsellor

The quality of the therapeutic relationship is an essential part of therapy.  It is vital that you feel like you can connect with your counsellor without fear of judgement so that you can be your authentic self. I can offer you an initial 30-minute telephone or online free consultation, providing you with the opportunity to discuss the counselling process and decide whether I am the right therapist for you.

I work collaboratively, we will negotiate a way of working that feels right for you and at your pace, this may be short or long-term work. I welcome you to contact me via email to find out more about how we may be able to work together. 

I have extensive experience of working with issues relating to domestic and sexual abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, low-self-esteem, addictions, self-harm, relationship problems, sexuality, intimacy and trust, inner child work, boundaries, anger, loss and grief and shame.

I work in a holistic and creative way depending on your individual needs.

Counselling:

Initial 30 minute consultation -free

On-line/telephone therapy session - £50

Walk and Talk session - £55

Face to face therapy session (Newquay) - £50

Please contact me for further information about fees if you are struggling financially.

Clinical Supervision:

Initial 30 minute consultation - free

1hr Online/telephone supervision session - £50

Walk and Talk session - £55

1hr Face to face supervision session - £50