Michelle Smith

With over 20 years of experience working with children and young people, I have dedicated my career to supporting their well-being and personal development. My professional journey includes roles as a teacher, senior leader, head teacher, and now as a counsellor and psychotherapist.

At Inner Grace, I offer a range of therapeutic services tailored to individual needs:

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy: This innovative approach involves clients participating in activities with horses, which helps them learn about themselves and others. Horses are non-judgmental and sensitive creatures that can mirror human emotions, providing immediate and honest feedback. This method allows therapy to be conducted gently, focusing on the horses' behavior to reduce anxiety and create a supportive environment.

Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT): Incorporating animals, particularly dogs, into therapy sessions offers a natural and holistic approach. Dogs are non-confrontational, sensitive, and provide comfort, helping clients focus on something less stressful than discussing their problems directly. This reduction in anxiety offers social support and comfort during sessions.

Walk and Talk Therapy: Conducting therapeutic conversations outdoors can be especially beneficial for those who feel more at ease in nature. This method reduces the potential intensity of eye contact, helps clients feel less "stuck," and promotes a sense of equality and union between client and counsellor.

Online Therapy: Recognizing the importance of accessibility, I also offer online therapy sessions to accommodate various needs and preferences.

My qualifications include a BA Hons in Psychology, a PGCE, a Level 5 Diploma in Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, Animal assisted diploma and a Post Graduate Diploma in Integrative Counselling.

Through these diverse therapeutic approaches, I aim to provide a compassionate and supportive environment, helping clients find their inner grace and achieve their full potential.

Welcome to my therapeutic practice, where compassionate care and evidence-based approaches come together to support your journey toward healing and personal growth. I am dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges while developing the tools necessary to enhance their well-being.

When you walk through the gate of my practice, you will be met with warmth, understanding, and professionalism. 

Each session is a collaborative experience where we work together to identify challenges, build resilience, and cultivate positive change. My goal is to empower you with practical strategies and insights that extend beyond the therapy room, helping you foster long-lasting well-being.

A special aspect of my practice is the presence of my therapy dog, Mickey and my therapy horses, Fancy, Reggie and Winnie.  All of my animals has a gentle and intuitive nature, helping to create a calming atmosphere that can ease anxiety and promote relaxation.

Therapy dogs and horses have been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and provide a soothing presence that enhances the therapeutic experience. Whether you prefer to have Mickey or the horses by your side for gentle support or simply enjoy the presence of a friendly companion during sessions, the choice is entirely yours.

My practice is built on inclusivity, respect, and acceptance. I welcome individuals from all walks of life, backgrounds, and identities. Whether you are new to therapy or have previous experience, my goal is to ensure you feel comfortable, valued, and heard.

If you are ready to begin your journey toward healing and self-discovery, I invite you to reach out and schedule a session. Together, we can work towards creating a life that feels fulfilling, balanced, and aligned with your true self.

I look forward to meeting you—and so does Mickey, Fancy, Reggie and Winnie

First Session: Meeting Mickey and Horses & Your Initial Consultation

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and ensure that we are the right fit for your therapeutic journey. During this session, you’ll meet Mickey, who will guide the conversation in a comfortable and supportive environment.

What to Expect:

Your Questions Matter: This is also your time to ask about our approach, experience, and how we work.

Establishing Comfort & Fit: The goal is to ensure you feel comfortable and confident that we are the right therapists for you.

Next Steps: If we both feel this is a good fit, we’ll discuss the next steps and scheduling future sessions.

This first meeting is designed to be an open and pressure-free conversation, allowing you to take the time you need to decide if this is the right path for you.

I will be working from PB Gym on a Thursday from late morning to early evening. Various appointments available.

Any other time i can offer online therapy sessions.

Hey I'm Michelle with my therapy (pets as therapy accredited) dog Mickey.

With over 20 years of experience working with children, young people and managing staff, I have dedicated my career to supporting everyone's well-being and personal development. My professional journey includes roles as a teacher, senior leader, head teacher, and now as a counsellor and psychotherapist.

I am the founder of Inner Grace, I offer a range of therapeutic services tailored to individual needs:

Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT): Incorporating animals, particularly dogs, into therapy sessions offers a natural and holistic approach. Dogs are non-confrontational, sensitive, and provide comfort, helping clients focus on something less stressful than discussing their problems directly. This reduction in anxiety offers social support and comfort during sessions.

Walk and Talk Therapy: Conducting therapeutic conversations outdoors can be especially beneficial for those who feel more at ease in nature. This method reduces the potential intensity of eye contact, helps clients feel less "stuck," and promotes a sense of equality and union between client and counsellor.

Online Therapy: Recognizing the importance of accessibility, I also offer online therapy sessions to accommodate various needs and preferences.

My qualifications include a BA Hons in Psychology, a PGCE, a Level 5 Diploma in Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, Animal assisted therapy diploma and a Post Graduate Diploma in Integrative Counselling.

Through these diverse therapeutic approaches, I aim to provide a compassionate and supportive environment, helping clients find their inner grace and achieve their full potential.

Welcome to my therapeutic practice, where compassionate care and evidence-based approaches come together to support your journey toward healing and personal growth. I am dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges while developing the tools necessary to enhance their well-being.

When you walk through the doors of my practice, you will be met with warmth, understanding, and professionalism. I take a client-centered approach, meaning that therapy is guided by your goals, pace, and comfort level. 

Each session is a collaborative experience where we work together to identify challenges, build resilience, and cultivate positive change. My goal is to empower you with practical strategies and insights that extend beyond the therapy room, helping you foster long-lasting well-being.

Meet My Therapy Dog

A special aspect of my practice is the presence of my therapy dog, Mickey, a trained and certified pets as therapy dog who brings comfort, warmth, and unconditional love to our sessions. Mickey has a gentle and intuitive nature, helping to create a calming atmosphere that can ease anxiety and promote relaxation.

Therapy dogs have been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and provide a soothing presence that enhances the therapeutic experience. Whether you prefer to have Mickey by your side for gentle support or simply enjoy the presence of a friendly companion during sessions, the choice is entirely yours.

If you are ready to begin your journey toward healing and self-discovery, I invite you to reach out and schedule a session. Together, we can work towards creating a life that feels fulfilling, balanced, and aligned with your true self.

I look forward to meeting you—and so does Mickey!

First Session with me meeting Mickey & Your Initial Consultation

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and ensure that we are the right fit for your therapeutic journey. During this session, you’ll meet Mickey, who will guide the conversation in a comfortable and supportive environment.

Your Questions Matter: This is also your time to ask about our approach, experience, and how we work.

The goal is to ensure you feel comfortable and confident that we are the right therapists for you.

Next Steps: If we both feel this is a good fit, we’ll discuss the next steps and scheduling future sessions.

This first meeting is designed to be an open and pressure-free conversation, allowing you to take the time you need to decide if this is the right path for you.