Sexual Abuse Counselling in Bristol
Psychotherapy can meet our innate need to be heard and deeply understood. Together we can explore your sense of being in the world and process difficult emotions, recurring difficulties or questions. Working with safety and sensitivity we can also process early life experience, past trauma and complex relational dynamics. My holistic approach aims to work with the whole of a person - I work relationally and openly with you to build awareness of psyche, body, memory, energy. As you deepen your understanding of self, you may start to let go of old patterns, restore a sense of balance and begin to build foundations for growth.
Psychotherapy can meet our innate need to be heard and deeply understood. Together we can explore your sense of being in the world and process difficult emotions, recurring difficulties or questions. Working with safety and sensitivity we can also process early life experience, past trauma and complex relational dynamics. My holistic approach aims to work with the whole of a person - I work relationally and openly with you to build awareness of psyche, body, memory, energy. As you deepen your understanding of self, you may start to let go of old patterns, restore a sense of balance and begin to build foundations for growth.
People come to counselling for many different reasons. It’s a brave first step to make; to decide that you might need or want help processing your thoughts and feelings with another person. Counselling can often help us to understand ourselves better; reframe the way we experience ourselves and help us to open up to the possibility of change. As a counsellor, my focus is on the relationship that is co-created in a safe, non-judgemental space with clients. I believe that once we feel that we are being listened to and heard by another we can express our authentic self; the parts of us that may be hidden in everyday life.
People come to counselling for many different reasons. It’s a brave first step to make; to decide that you might need or want help processing your thoughts and feelings with another person. Counselling can often help us to understand ourselves better; reframe the way we experience ourselves and help us to open up to the possibility of change. As a counsellor, my focus is on the relationship that is co-created in a safe, non-judgemental space with clients. I believe that once we feel that we are being listened to and heard by another we can express our authentic self; the parts of us that may be hidden in everyday life.
I am able to help with many of life's challenges and have specialist experience of working with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual violence.
I understand the gravity and rippling affect violence and sexual abuse can have but also that there is hope, strength and empowerment that can be found within oneself with the help of counselling. I have experience of working with clients who have experienced multiple accounts of abuse and also clients who experience dissociation.
I am able to help with many of life's challenges and have specialist experience of working with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual violence.
I understand the gravity and rippling affect violence and sexual abuse can have but also that there is hope, strength and empowerment that can be found within oneself with the help of counselling. I have experience of working with clients who have experienced multiple accounts of abuse and also clients who experience dissociation.
I work with adults who experience PTSD from childhood traumas, including sexual abuse, parental neglect, abandonment and interrupted childhood development.
I offer a place of safety and care. You can experience a relationship with completely no judgement and full of authenticity. Within this, we can hold your wounded parts, have them feel heard and loved and resolve the hurts they endured. This will enable you to feel your whole self again and move forwards in life.
I work with adults who experience PTSD from childhood traumas, including sexual abuse, parental neglect, abandonment and interrupted childhood development.
I offer a place of safety and care. You can experience a relationship with completely no judgement and full of authenticity. Within this, we can hold your wounded parts, have them feel heard and loved and resolve the hurts they endured. This will enable you to feel your whole self again and move forwards in life.
What happened in your childhood? How does it affect you now? I work with adults to overcome childhood/teenage adversities to find their confidence and build self-esteem. You might be feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed. It could be feeling unworthy of another person's love, feelings of shame or of being punished for some trust or over trusting other people. Each day can become an internal battle as you feel doubt yourself, maybe loath yourself, just can't get organised and decision leave you exhausted. If this resonates with you, email me or check out my website to book a free 15-minute phone call/zoom chat.
What happened in your childhood? How does it affect you now? I work with adults to overcome childhood/teenage adversities to find their confidence and build self-esteem. You might be feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed. It could be feeling unworthy of another person's love, feelings of shame or of being punished for some trust or over trusting other people. Each day can become an internal battle as you feel doubt yourself, maybe loath yourself, just can't get organised and decision leave you exhausted. If this resonates with you, email me or check out my website to book a free 15-minute phone call/zoom chat.
My area of specialism is working with people who have been subjected to Domestic abuse and sexual abuse and the emotional, physical and psychological impact that those affected live with.
The areas I work with include but are not limited to low confidence, anxiety, relationships both intimate and friendships, loss, grief, anger, stabilisation, safety, trust, boundaries and so much more.
I meet you exactly where you are and welcome that part of you with no judgement or assumptions. This means I recognise the unique values and world experience you will enter the space with and meet you with curiosity and deep empathy.
Counselling can provide space to grow a kinder and compassionate internal voice, make progress with regaining or developing confidence and self-worth.
My area of specialism is working with people who have been subjected to Domestic abuse and sexual abuse and the emotional, physical and psychological impact that those affected live with.
The areas I work with include but are not limited to low confidence, anxiety, relationships both intimate and friendships, loss, grief, anger, stabilisation, safety, trust, boundaries and so much more.
I meet you exactly where you are and welcome that part of you with no judgement or assumptions. This means I recognise the unique values and world experience you will enter the space with and meet you with curiosity and deep empathy.
Counselling can provide space to grow a kinder and compassionate internal voice, make progress with regaining or developing confidence and self-worth.
Josephine Lay - Trauma-informed creative therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS3
Are you feeling overwhelmed and looking for help to manage feelings of anxiety, distress or the impact of trauma? As a trauma-informed creative arts therapist working with children, young people and young adults, I listen to what you share through creativity and imagination as well as words. Many people find this helps them work at a safe distance and pace, without getting flooded by intense feelings or sensations.
I offer support to parents and carers through consultation sessions.
I also offer clinical supervision for trainee and qualified therapists that integrates talking, symbolic, and embodied approaches.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and looking for help to manage feelings of anxiety, distress or the impact of trauma? As a trauma-informed creative arts therapist working with children, young people and young adults, I listen to what you share through creativity and imagination as well as words. Many people find this helps them work at a safe distance and pace, without getting flooded by intense feelings or sensations.
I offer support to parents and carers through consultation sessions.
I also offer clinical supervision for trainee and qualified therapists that integrates talking, symbolic, and embodied approaches.
I'm a Level 7, Masters qualified therapist and I have almost a decade of experience working with female survivors of domestic and sexual abuse.
I believe therapy can be a transformative experience. Whether you have recently been through a difficult or traumatic experience, are feeling lost, low, are struggling with negative self-image, or you just feel it may be helpful to have a space to untangle your thoughts and develop a deeper understanding of yourself, I can hold a safe and non-judgemental space for you. My work is integrative (meaning I draw from different therapy theories), and is client-centred, at your pace, gentle and compassionate.
I'm a Level 7, Masters qualified therapist and I have almost a decade of experience working with female survivors of domestic and sexual abuse.
I believe therapy can be a transformative experience. Whether you have recently been through a difficult or traumatic experience, are feeling lost, low, are struggling with negative self-image, or you just feel it may be helpful to have a space to untangle your thoughts and develop a deeper understanding of yourself, I can hold a safe and non-judgemental space for you. My work is integrative (meaning I draw from different therapy theories), and is client-centred, at your pace, gentle and compassionate.
This could be because you want to address issues around self esteem, sexual abuse, stress related work, health problems, trauma or bereavement.
I can offer a warm empathic friendly environment and can help and support many issues. This space is valid time for you, and for ‘you only’ to talk about anything that is bothering you, that you are upset about and is playing on your mind. Where you can express how you feel honestly and freely. I can help you find your own answers, heal, connect and release
This could be because you want to address issues around self esteem, sexual abuse, stress related work, health problems, trauma or bereavement.
I can offer a warm empathic friendly environment and can help and support many issues. This space is valid time for you, and for ‘you only’ to talk about anything that is bothering you, that you are upset about and is playing on your mind. Where you can express how you feel honestly and freely. I can help you find your own answers, heal, connect and release
Warm welcome. I'm a EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner, BACP Accred. Counsellor and Supervisor. Choosing a therapist with whom to connect and build a trusting therapeutic relationship can feel daunting, even risky, yet also empowering and hopeful. What does it feel like to take off masks, shedding protective layers that keep the authentic, vulnerable self safe while navigating through challenging or traumatic times? Together we can explore what you feel ready and safe to share - whether these are current, buried or almost forgotten experiences.
Warm welcome. I'm a EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner, BACP Accred. Counsellor and Supervisor. Choosing a therapist with whom to connect and build a trusting therapeutic relationship can feel daunting, even risky, yet also empowering and hopeful. What does it feel like to take off masks, shedding protective layers that keep the authentic, vulnerable self safe while navigating through challenging or traumatic times? Together we can explore what you feel ready and safe to share - whether these are current, buried or almost forgotten experiences.
I provide a safe and unpressured space where you can explore all aspects of who you are, without the restrictions and expectations you might feel in everyday life. Counselling can help you make sense of your feelings, behaviour and relationships. I believe this can be a process of growth and self-discovery. We often adapt our true selves to manage the pressures of life. Counselling can be an opportunity to say the things you may never have had the chance to say before and explore feelings that may have been hidden. It can lead to deepened self-awareness and can help you find ways to become 'unstuck' and move forward with life.
I provide a safe and unpressured space where you can explore all aspects of who you are, without the restrictions and expectations you might feel in everyday life. Counselling can help you make sense of your feelings, behaviour and relationships. I believe this can be a process of growth and self-discovery. We often adapt our true selves to manage the pressures of life. Counselling can be an opportunity to say the things you may never have had the chance to say before and explore feelings that may have been hidden. It can lead to deepened self-awareness and can help you find ways to become 'unstuck' and move forward with life.
I specialise in working with adolescents and adults who have experienced physical or sexual assaults or abuse.
Have you been struggling with the impact of something painful, scary or confusing, unsure how to move forward? Maybe you’ve experienced trauma that left you feeling unsafe, vulnerable, unheard, or carrying responsibility that wasn’t yours. Whether recent or long-standing, you don’t have to face it alone.
I specialise in working with adolescents and adults who have experienced physical or sexual assaults or abuse.
Have you been struggling with the impact of something painful, scary or confusing, unsure how to move forward? Maybe you’ve experienced trauma that left you feeling unsafe, vulnerable, unheard, or carrying responsibility that wasn’t yours. Whether recent or long-standing, you don’t have to face it alone.
You may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, low, or simply not yourself. Perhaps you’re carrying the weight of trauma, loss or change. Are you struggling to make sense of what’s happened, feeling stuck, or finding it hard to cope? Do you long to feel calmer, safer in your body, and more connected to yourself again? If any of this resonates, please know you’re not alone.
At times, life can feel heavy and confusing. In these moments, having a dedicated space to pause, reflect, and gently explore what’s going on for you can be a powerful part of healing.
You may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, low, or simply not yourself. Perhaps you’re carrying the weight of trauma, loss or change. Are you struggling to make sense of what’s happened, feeling stuck, or finding it hard to cope? Do you long to feel calmer, safer in your body, and more connected to yourself again? If any of this resonates, please know you’re not alone.
At times, life can feel heavy and confusing. In these moments, having a dedicated space to pause, reflect, and gently explore what’s going on for you can be a powerful part of healing.
I am specialised in working with trauma and have worked with a wide range of issues with clients: sexual abuse, domestic abuse, physical abuse, bereavement, suicide, adoption, looked after children/ young people.
I am Art Psychotherapist providing art therapy sessions to adults and young adults in Bristol. I have 15 years experience practicing as an Art Psychotherapist with children, young people and adults in the voluntary sector. I am currently working within the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. I am familiar with working with the wide range of symptoms arising from trauma such as: anxiety, depression, self harm, behavioural difficulties, dissociation, hyperactivity, hypervigilance, eating difficulties, social difficulties, anger, aggression, etc. I am specialised in working with trauma.
I am specialised in working with trauma and have worked with a wide range of issues with clients: sexual abuse, domestic abuse, physical abuse, bereavement, suicide, adoption, looked after children/ young people.
I am Art Psychotherapist providing art therapy sessions to adults and young adults in Bristol. I have 15 years experience practicing as an Art Psychotherapist with children, young people and adults in the voluntary sector. I am currently working within the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. I am familiar with working with the wide range of symptoms arising from trauma such as: anxiety, depression, self harm, behavioural difficulties, dissociation, hyperactivity, hypervigilance, eating difficulties, social difficulties, anger, aggression, etc. I am specialised in working with trauma.
My experience includes collaborating in research groups on bereavement and conducting my own Master's research on the impact of sexual abuse.
Life can feel overwhelming and starting therapy can feel daunting, which is why I offer a calm, inclusive environment where you can think and feel without having to manage how you come across. People come to me with a wide range of experiences. Some are feeling overwhelmed, navigating life transitions such as bereavement, menopause, children leaving home, changing jobs, divorce, fertility, questioning their identity, gender, sexuality. You may not even know what is wrong and that's ok too.
Finding someone you feel comfortable with is the first step, which is why I offer a, free 20 minute call.
My experience includes collaborating in research groups on bereavement and conducting my own Master's research on the impact of sexual abuse.
Life can feel overwhelming and starting therapy can feel daunting, which is why I offer a calm, inclusive environment where you can think and feel without having to manage how you come across. People come to me with a wide range of experiences. Some are feeling overwhelmed, navigating life transitions such as bereavement, menopause, children leaving home, changing jobs, divorce, fertility, questioning their identity, gender, sexuality. You may not even know what is wrong and that's ok too.
Finding someone you feel comfortable with is the first step, which is why I offer a, free 20 minute call.
I'm a qualified counsellor, Supervisor & hypnotherapist working with individuals and couples, I work with Neurodivergence, LGBTQAI+ community, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships/Family difficulties, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Abuse, Grief, Life changes/ Transitions.
I believe that the relationship between counsellor and client is of paramount importance. I am a trained couples counsellor and have training on the impact of trauma, rape, sexual abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, and shame, Whatever you are facing contact me and together we can begin to address what is keeping you stuck and also how to move forward.
I'm a qualified counsellor, Supervisor & hypnotherapist working with individuals and couples, I work with Neurodivergence, LGBTQAI+ community, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships/Family difficulties, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Abuse, Grief, Life changes/ Transitions.
I believe that the relationship between counsellor and client is of paramount importance. I am a trained couples counsellor and have training on the impact of trauma, rape, sexual abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, and shame, Whatever you are facing contact me and together we can begin to address what is keeping you stuck and also how to move forward.
I am a qualified and BACP-accredited psychotherapeutic counsellor with over 10 years’ experience working with patterns of abuse, neglect, and relational trauma. I specialise in trauma-informed narcissistic abuse recovery, supporting survivors who feel disconnected from themselves following emotionally abusive or manipulative relationship dynamics.
I am a qualified and BACP-accredited psychotherapeutic counsellor with over 10 years’ experience working with patterns of abuse, neglect, and relational trauma. I specialise in trauma-informed narcissistic abuse recovery, supporting survivors who feel disconnected from themselves following emotionally abusive or manipulative relationship dynamics.
Together, we can make sense of how protective strategies and early experiences may shape your present. Do you find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with intimacy, conflict, or anxiety? Warm and down-to-earth, I'm a qualified counsellor and psychosexual & relational therapist, and have helped many clients make meaningful, lasting changes leading to a calmer, more fulfilling life.
If you're experiencing life changes such as separation, menopause, difficulties in relationships, the impact of trauma, or sexual difficulties such as painful sex or low desire, I can help. I work with adults of all sexualities and relationship styles.
Together, we can make sense of how protective strategies and early experiences may shape your present. Do you find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with intimacy, conflict, or anxiety? Warm and down-to-earth, I'm a qualified counsellor and psychosexual & relational therapist, and have helped many clients make meaningful, lasting changes leading to a calmer, more fulfilling life.
If you're experiencing life changes such as separation, menopause, difficulties in relationships, the impact of trauma, or sexual difficulties such as painful sex or low desire, I can help. I work with adults of all sexualities and relationship styles.
Are you feeling stuck, lost, or simply worn down by everything you’ve been carrying? Maybe you’re going through a relationship breakdown, living with the impact of domestic abuse, or trying to make sense of past trauma. Whatever your story looks like, you deserve support that feels safe, steady, and genuinely on your side.
I work in a person centred way, which means I don’t push, judge, or tell you who you should be. Instead, I offer a calm, compassionate space where you can breathe, talk, and explore what’s going on at your own pace.
Are you feeling stuck, lost, or simply worn down by everything you’ve been carrying? Maybe you’re going through a relationship breakdown, living with the impact of domestic abuse, or trying to make sense of past trauma. Whatever your story looks like, you deserve support that feels safe, steady, and genuinely on your side.
I work in a person centred way, which means I don’t push, judge, or tell you who you should be. Instead, I offer a calm, compassionate space where you can breathe, talk, and explore what’s going on at your own pace.
My specialism over the past 4 years has allowed me to work alongside clients to navigate complex relationships, including survivors of sexual abuse, domestic abuse, and families affected by substance use and addictions.
Are you seeking a space where you can feel heard and supported? I’m Rachel, an accredited trauma-informed and relational counsellor and MA trained psychotherapist. I specialise in supporting adults who are healing from trauma, struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, seeking more fulfilling relationships or wishing to find healthier coping strategies. I believe change happens in an accepting, collaborative, and empowering relationship grounded in trust, safety, and choice. My approach is flexible, valuing your unique lived-experiences and personal preferences. Together, we’ll explore what matters to you most, working at your own pace.
My specialism over the past 4 years has allowed me to work alongside clients to navigate complex relationships, including survivors of sexual abuse, domestic abuse, and families affected by substance use and addictions.
Are you seeking a space where you can feel heard and supported? I’m Rachel, an accredited trauma-informed and relational counsellor and MA trained psychotherapist. I specialise in supporting adults who are healing from trauma, struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, seeking more fulfilling relationships or wishing to find healthier coping strategies. I believe change happens in an accepting, collaborative, and empowering relationship grounded in trust, safety, and choice. My approach is flexible, valuing your unique lived-experiences and personal preferences. Together, we’ll explore what matters to you most, working at your own pace.
See more therapy options for Bristol
Nearby Sexual Abuse Counsellors Searches for Bristol
- Backwell
- Bath
- Bathampton
- Batheaston
- Clevedon
- Emersons Green
- Filton
- Long Ashton
- Nailsea
- Patchway
- Radstock
- Wotton-under-Edge
Sexual Abuse Counsellors
How do therapists treat sexual abuse?
A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.
Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?
Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.
How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?
Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.
Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?
As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.