About Sue Coonan

My Journey as a Clinical Psychologist

With a background in HR, I studied psychology later in life, initially a Masters in Counselling Psychology, then further study to gain clinical recognition. I worked mainly in private practice with individuals and couples. For many years, my guiding therapeutic modality has been Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples - an evidence-based approach developed by Dr Sue Johnson. I also have training in CBT, ACT, Mindfulness-Based approaches and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy. My basic framework is Humanistic and I am interested in existential and spiritual questions.

I'm passionate about supporting couples in their relationship journey and helping fellow therapists navigate the challenges of professional practice, particularly those experiencing self-doubt.

Specialising in Emotionally Focused Therapy

EFT recognises that humans are fundamentally designed for connection. Paradoxically, when that connection is threatened or damaged, our self-protective coping patterns can push our loved ones further away.

Through EFT, I help couples understand these patterns, access their underlying emotions and needs, and create new, positive cycles of connection and intimacy. This approach has decades of research supporting its effectiveness, with studies showing that 70% of couples recover from relationship distress and 90% show significant improvement.

Supporting Fellow Therapists

I'm passionate about supporting fellow therapists who are navigating the challenges of clinical practice. Our work can bring to the surface painful feelings of self-doubt, grounded in our strong desire to help. Left unsupported, these feelings can lead to us leaning out from our growth and ultimately from the work. I don’t profess to have all the answers, but I do hope to offer a collaborative space in which to work through what arises.

Currently undertaking training to become a Board approved supervisor and approved as a Supervisor in Training by ICEEFT, I provide a supportive space for therapists to:

• Process challenging cases and complex clinical decisions
• Navigate professional self-doubt and build confidence
• Develop and refine their therapeutic skills
• Maintain ethical practice and professional boundaries
• Prevent burnout and maintain personal wellbeing

My Approach

Whether working with couples or supervising therapists, I bring:

• Compassion: Understanding that growth requires vulnerability and courage
• Evidence-based practice: Using approaches backed by solid research
• Safety: Creating secure environments where we can explore and grow
• Practical wisdom: Combining theoretical knowledge with real-world experience
• Hope: Believing deeply in our capacity for healing and growth
• My Self: I seek to bring my authentic human self, working alongside you

Working Part-Time

I maintain a selective practice, working two days per week, most weeks – I also travel a bit. This allows me to bring my full attention and energy to each client and supervisee, ensuring quality of care and attention for you and balance in this phase of life for me!