Sue Grant Counselling Medical Services in London

Reviews

1. Simon Crowe ★★★☆☆

   I saw Su Grant regularly for a year. Her approach was less passive and formal than what I would have expected. For the most part, I think this had a positive impact on my therapy. She wasn't afraid to ask uncomfortable questions and pick apart some of my less helpful beliefs. When she did hit the mark, her inclination to actively talk as well as listen added considerable value to our sessions. One area in which I thought her informality strayed beyond professional behaviour was in discussing her other autistic clients and people on the autistic spectrum in general. My ASD/Aspergers diagnosis was one reason I chose to see her, as it is listed as one of her specialisms on counselling-directory.org.uk. When discussing the cliques that form in secondary schools, she rather pointedly remarked that the "ugly" kids tend to realise they belong together, referring I assume to the often neurodiverse groups of misfits one find in schools. On another occasion, she mimicked the downcast body language of her other autistic clients, in a way that didn't strike me as respectful. She repeatedly claimed that people on the autistic spectrum tend to do well academically, but only in STEM subjects. This is a stereotype to which there are many exceptions, myself included. Given that Su's words mirrored harmful stereotypes and the language of school bullies ("ugly"), I worry about what effect they may have on younger autistic clients. With that said, I do think I benefited from seeing Su. A few questionable remarks didn't undo the good she did for my self-esteem. I feel I have a clearer idea of what I want from life now and what behaviours and people I'd do better to avoid.

   almost 5 years ago

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