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About Michaela Afford

About Me – Counsellor in Surrey Offering Online Therapy

I’m a qualified counsellor based in Surrey, providing online counselling for adults across the UK.

Before training as a therapist, I worked in the wellbeing field through yoga, breathwork and mindful movement. Over time, I became increasingly interested in the emotional experiences behind what people were carrying. That curiosity led me into counselling.

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I’ve seen how anxiety, stress and trauma show up not only in thoughts, but physically too — tight chests, disrupted sleep, constant tension. That awareness shapes how I work as a therapist today.

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My Approach to Online Counselling

I offer relational counselling, which means the therapeutic relationship itself is central. Feeling safe, heard and not judged often creates the foundation for meaningful change.

As an integrative counsellor, I adapt sessions to your needs rather than following a rigid structure.

Some sessions are reflective. Some are practical. Some are about sitting with something difficult that hasn’t yet been spoken aloud.

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You don’t need to know exactly what’s wrong before starting therapy. We work it out together.

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Areas I Commonly Support

I provide counselling support for:

  • Anxiety and high-functioning stress

  • Health anxiety and medical trauma

  • Identity exploration and life transitions

  • Bereavement and grief

  • Low self-esteem and confidence

  • Addiction and coping behaviours

 

Whether you’re looking for anxiety counselling, medical trauma therapy, or support through a life transition, we begin with what feels most pressing to you.

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Professional Standards

I am committed to ethical, confidential and professional practice. I undertake ongoing professional development and regular supervision to ensure safe and effective therapeutic work.

Your wellbeing and safety are always prioritised.

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Therapy does not need to feel intimidating. It can be a steady, strengthening process — one that helps you understand yourself more clearly and move forward with greater confidence.

If you feel ready to explore counselling, I invite you to book a free introductory call. We can talk through what you are looking for and see whether working together feels right.

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Background / Experience

Along side my private counselling practice, I currently volunteer for Cruse Bereavement Support, helping clients understand and process their grief. I have worked with Cruse for a number of year, supporting clients and bereavement volunteers. Other volunteering and community work includes counselling clients living with addictions at Catalyst Support and Mid Surrey Community Fridges, saving good food from going to waste and distributing it around my community in Surrey.

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My work in physical fitness as a personal trainer and exercise instructor, has afforded me the opportunity to work with clients that are undergoing medical trauma and diagnosis. I understand the link between mind and body and have supported clients undergoing cancer treatment and surgery, dealing with physical and neurological conditions such as Osteoporosis and Parkinsons.

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I have a Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling, a registered member of the NCPS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society) and abide by the NCPS Code of Ethics. I receive regular supervision and undertake continued professional development to ensure the quality of my work.​​​​

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