Hello, I'm Susan.
I'm a grief coach and holistic therapist based in Sleaford, Lincolnshire. I support people who are navigating bereavement, loss, or any significant change in life circumstances, using a combination of coaching, Reiki and guided meditation.
I came to this work not through a textbook, but through my own experience of loss. Everything I offer comes from a place of genuine understanding.
My Story
I grew up in the Sleaford area and spent around 20 years living in the West Midlands after getting married, building a career working in early years, primary and further education. For many of those years I managed the training function of an early years consultancy team. Most parts of my career I found deeply rewarding, and every experience I gathered along the way supported me in arriving at where I am today.
In 2023, my husband Jason passed away. I returned to Sleaford, the place that has always felt like home, and began the long process of finding my footing again.
In the months that followed I accessed a range of support, from group sessions to talking therapies, through various organisations. I found value in different ways and from different people. But it was when I came across coaching, and the idea of growing from trauma and loss rather than simply surviving it, that something shifted for me. That framing felt empowering. It felt honest. And it felt like the right way forward.
I enrolled on a coaching course, began my training, and Turning Leaf grew from there. The name felt right from the start. A turning leaf represents growth and renewal, and the quiet consistency of seasons ending and beginning again.
My Approach
Every person I work with is different, and every experience of loss is different. I don't offer a one-size-fits-all programme or a fixed set of answers. What I offer is a calm, confidential space to be heard, and a range of tools and frameworks to help you find your own way forward, at your own pace.
Who I Work With
Turning Leaf is open to anyone navigating loss or significant life change, including bereavement, divorce, relationship breakdown, pet loss, or any circumstance that has left you unsure of what comes next. You don't need to be in crisis to reach out. Sometimes just feeling a little lost is enough.
In Loving Memory
In loving memory of Jason Bannister, 1972 to 2023. Honouring you through growth.
Frequent Asked Questions
How is coaching different from counselling or therapy?
Coaching isn't clinical or medical. There's no diagnosis and no prescribed treatment plan. It's a forward-focused, collaborative process that looks at how loss or change is affecting your life now, and works with you to build a sense of direction, strength and possibility. It works beautifully alongside other forms of support if you're already accessing them.
What kinds of loss do you support?
Bereavement, divorce, relationship breakdown, pet loss, redundancy, major health changes, and any other significant life event that has left you feeling uncertain about who you are or where you're going. If you're not sure whether your experience fits, please just get in touch.
Do you offer referrals if I need additional support?
Always. If at any point it becomes clear that more immediate or specialist support would be helpful, I will provide details of appropriate organisations and services. You will never be left without options.
Where do sessions take place?
Sessions are held at Nu U Hair and Beauty, 20D Southgate, Sleaford, NG34 7RZ, a calm and welcoming space tucked away from the high street. If you have any access requirements or questions about the location, just ask.
Whenever you're ready, I'm here.
There's no obligation and no pressure. If you'd like to find out more or just have a conversation about whether Turning Leaf might be right for you, please do get in touch.