Somatic Counselling in Colchester

Photo of Ellen Friend, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Ellen Friend
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
I work with people that have experienced trauma so that they can feel safe in the present and look to the future with openness. My core training is integrative, which means that I draw from multiple theories and frameworks to offer a broad spectrum of support to the people I work with. My most recent training is psychoanalytic, which enables me to work over longer periods of time, for those that want to explore a more in-depth approach to the psyche.
I work with people that have experienced trauma so that they can feel safe in the present and look to the future with openness. My core training is integrative, which means that I draw from multiple theories and frameworks to offer a broad spectrum of support to the people I work with. My most recent training is psychoanalytic, which enables me to work over longer periods of time, for those that want to explore a more in-depth approach to the psyche.
01206 699903 View 01206 699903
Photo of Victoria Ward, MSc
Victoria Ward
Verified Verified
Everybody should have a Victoria. I've heard this from many clients over the years. My clients feel seen, heard and truly supported through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Unlike some therapy and counselling approaches, I believe that just talking about what's going on for you isn't going to cut it. So instead of just talking, we will work with a variety of interventions, tools and techniques - together - on your issue. My goal is not just to manage your problem, but to get as close to resolving it as possible.
Everybody should have a Victoria. I've heard this from many clients over the years. My clients feel seen, heard and truly supported through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Unlike some therapy and counselling approaches, I believe that just talking about what's going on for you isn't going to cut it. So instead of just talking, we will work with a variety of interventions, tools and techniques - together - on your issue. My goal is not just to manage your problem, but to get as close to resolving it as possible.
020 4634 3973 View 020 4634 3973
Photo of Natalia Hassan, Counsellor, MBACP
Natalia Hassan
Counsellor, MBACP
English & Russian Speaking - I work with adults who may seem capable and “fine” on the outside, while internally feeling anxious, overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from themselves. Many of my clients struggle with overthinking, self-criticism, people-pleasing, or feeling responsible for everyone else’s needs. Some grew up around criticism, high expectations, or environments where emotions didn’t feel fully safe. Together, we gently explore these patterns, helping you better understand yourself, build self-compassion, and feel more grounded, confident, and emotionally supported.
English & Russian Speaking - I work with adults who may seem capable and “fine” on the outside, while internally feeling anxious, overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from themselves. Many of my clients struggle with overthinking, self-criticism, people-pleasing, or feeling responsible for everyone else’s needs. Some grew up around criticism, high expectations, or environments where emotions didn’t feel fully safe. Together, we gently explore these patterns, helping you better understand yourself, build self-compassion, and feel more grounded, confident, and emotionally supported.
01572 491469 View 01572 491469
Photo of Johanna Millicent Neville - Therapy with Jo, Counsellor, MBACP
Therapy with Jo
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Hello I'm Jo a warm, down-to-earth integrative counsellor based in Colchester. I am trained in an array of counselling theories which enables me to bring a tailored approach of therapy to clients. Whatever has brought you here today, you are welcome. With 25 years experience in supporting individuals in difficulty I came to counselling through my own journey of trauma and healing. I have extensive experience in working with neurodiversity and childhood trauma however this is not exclusive so whatever your dilemma or difficulty do get in touch to discuss support. I offer a free 15 mins assessment call so feel free to reach out.
Hello I'm Jo a warm, down-to-earth integrative counsellor based in Colchester. I am trained in an array of counselling theories which enables me to bring a tailored approach of therapy to clients. Whatever has brought you here today, you are welcome. With 25 years experience in supporting individuals in difficulty I came to counselling through my own journey of trauma and healing. I have extensive experience in working with neurodiversity and childhood trauma however this is not exclusive so whatever your dilemma or difficulty do get in touch to discuss support. I offer a free 15 mins assessment call so feel free to reach out.
01795 905159 View 01795 905159
Photo of Ian West - Ian West (Accred) Counsellor and Supervisor, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Ian West (Accred) Counsellor and Supervisor
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
4 Endorsed
I am an Accredited MBACP Registered Humanistic Integrative Counsellor & Counselling Supervisor with over 10 years of experience in working with individuals, and groups of all ages, sexual orientations and cultural backgrounds. I am based in Colchester CO1. Dependent on your presenting issues/needs I will draw on cognitive, psychodynamic, attachment, and relational theories and concepts, to provide either short-term-focused counselling/therapy or longer-term in-depth psychotherapy.
I am an Accredited MBACP Registered Humanistic Integrative Counsellor & Counselling Supervisor with over 10 years of experience in working with individuals, and groups of all ages, sexual orientations and cultural backgrounds. I am based in Colchester CO1. Dependent on your presenting issues/needs I will draw on cognitive, psychodynamic, attachment, and relational theories and concepts, to provide either short-term-focused counselling/therapy or longer-term in-depth psychotherapy.
01206 482901 View 01206 482901
Photo of Jacqueline Jones - Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy , Psychotherapist, MA, COSRT General
Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, COSRT General
3 Endorsed
Sex and relationship difficulties can feel lonely, painful and hard to name. I am a Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist, often called a sex therapist, supporting couples, throuples and individuals online and in Essex. I work with low desire, mismatched desire, painful sex, erection or ejaculation difficulties, orgasm concerns, porn-related worries, affairs, secrecy, shame and relationship crisis. My approach is warm, practical and direct where helpful.
Sex and relationship difficulties can feel lonely, painful and hard to name. I am a Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist, often called a sex therapist, supporting couples, throuples and individuals online and in Essex. I work with low desire, mismatched desire, painful sex, erection or ejaculation difficulties, orgasm concerns, porn-related worries, affairs, secrecy, shame and relationship crisis. My approach is warm, practical and direct where helpful.
020 3909 9848 View 020 3909 9848
Photo of Eleanor Cornell, Counsellor, MBACP
Eleanor Cornell
Counsellor, MBACP
Hi there, my name is Ellie and I am a Counsellor specializing in trauma and the common coping skills that develop from it's effects. These include the areas of disordered eating, body image issues (including body dysmorphia), addiction (self-medicating to avoid the effects of trauma), being drawn to abusive relationships and patterns of becoming stuck and paralyzed in these damaging dynamics. The heart of my therapeutic work is to help clients discover their authentic self and to gently dis-engage from painful old beliefs they may have internalized from complex and overwhelming environments.
Hi there, my name is Ellie and I am a Counsellor specializing in trauma and the common coping skills that develop from it's effects. These include the areas of disordered eating, body image issues (including body dysmorphia), addiction (self-medicating to avoid the effects of trauma), being drawn to abusive relationships and patterns of becoming stuck and paralyzed in these damaging dynamics. The heart of my therapeutic work is to help clients discover their authentic self and to gently dis-engage from painful old beliefs they may have internalized from complex and overwhelming environments.
01376 319243 View 01376 319243
Photo of Anne Frewin, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Anne Frewin
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
I integrate Person-Centred and Trauma-Focused therapy with Somatic Experiencing to address how trauma lives in both mind and body.
Trauma can leave you feeling disconnected or stuck in the past. Sometimes, the most powerful step toward recovery is simply feeling heard, accepted, and truly understood. As a qualified Person-Centred & Trauma-Focused therapist, I provide a compassionate, safe space to process your experiences without judgment. I don’t believe in "one size fits all." Instead, I blend Humanistic values with trauma-focused techniques to empower your unique path to growth. Whether you’re navigating past wounds or seeking self-development, I’m here to support your healing. Level 4 BACP qualified, NCPS Accredited Member, working with adults 18+.
I integrate Person-Centred and Trauma-Focused therapy with Somatic Experiencing to address how trauma lives in both mind and body.
Trauma can leave you feeling disconnected or stuck in the past. Sometimes, the most powerful step toward recovery is simply feeling heard, accepted, and truly understood. As a qualified Person-Centred & Trauma-Focused therapist, I provide a compassionate, safe space to process your experiences without judgment. I don’t believe in "one size fits all." Instead, I blend Humanistic values with trauma-focused techniques to empower your unique path to growth. Whether you’re navigating past wounds or seeking self-development, I’m here to support your healing. Level 4 BACP qualified, NCPS Accredited Member, working with adults 18+.
01702 967266 View 01702 967266
Photo of Liz Pickford, Counsellor, MBACP
Liz Pickford
Counsellor, MBACP
Your journey to reclaiming your Happiness could start here! As a qualified Counsellor & Restorative Mediator, I fully believe that everyone deserves to live their life to their full potential. I have experience of working with clients presenting with anxiety, trauma and attachment difficulties, shame, childhood sexual abuse, alcohol and substance misuse, bereavement, relationships and adoption. I also have over 25 years’ experience of working with children and families, and provide specialist support for Birth Families, Adoptive Families, & Looked After Children.
Your journey to reclaiming your Happiness could start here! As a qualified Counsellor & Restorative Mediator, I fully believe that everyone deserves to live their life to their full potential. I have experience of working with clients presenting with anxiety, trauma and attachment difficulties, shame, childhood sexual abuse, alcohol and substance misuse, bereavement, relationships and adoption. I also have over 25 years’ experience of working with children and families, and provide specialist support for Birth Families, Adoptive Families, & Looked After Children.
01255 448839 View 01255 448839
Photo of Clare Louise Brookes - ReAlign Psychological Therapies, Counsellor, MUKCP
As an integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor, I don’t believe in a 'one size fits all' approach. Instead, I draw upon a variety of therapeutic traditions to tailor our work specifically to you, your unique background, and your personal goals. Together, we will create a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space where you can speak openly and feel truly heard. My role is not to analyse you from a distance, but to work collaboratively alongside you—honouring your past, understanding your present, and helping you build the tools for a more fulfilling future, We will explore it all at a pace that feels safe and right for you.
As an integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor, I don’t believe in a 'one size fits all' approach. Instead, I draw upon a variety of therapeutic traditions to tailor our work specifically to you, your unique background, and your personal goals. Together, we will create a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space where you can speak openly and feel truly heard. My role is not to analyse you from a distance, but to work collaboratively alongside you—honouring your past, understanding your present, and helping you build the tools for a more fulfilling future, We will explore it all at a pace that feels safe and right for you.
07852 692137 View 07852 692137
Photo of Jane Susan Smith, Counsellor, MBACP
Jane Susan Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
Deciding to contact a counsellor can feel overwhelming but as a fully qualified counsellor and member of the BACP (British association for psychotherapy) I work to a professional standard and ethic, supporting you on every step of your journey. I work from my private practice which sits on the Essex and Suffolk border, nestled in the Colne valley offering comfortable confidential consulting rooms with discreet parking . My practice is based on person -centred values offering empathic in-depth support which allows you to explore your feelings, beliefs and emotions in a safe confidential space. Weekly, monthly or ad hoc sessions
Deciding to contact a counsellor can feel overwhelming but as a fully qualified counsellor and member of the BACP (British association for psychotherapy) I work to a professional standard and ethic, supporting you on every step of your journey. I work from my private practice which sits on the Essex and Suffolk border, nestled in the Colne valley offering comfortable confidential consulting rooms with discreet parking . My practice is based on person -centred values offering empathic in-depth support which allows you to explore your feelings, beliefs and emotions in a safe confidential space. Weekly, monthly or ad hoc sessions
01206 489875 View 01206 489875
Photo of Nicky Moxey, Counsellor, MUKCP
Nicky Moxey
Counsellor, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am particularly interested in the way that things that go wrong in childhood can bite us as adults - it might show as low self esteem, high anxiety levels, feeling overwhelmed by things you could once deal with. If there's a residue of pain from earlier in your life that is causing you problems now - maybe relationship issues, or perhaps you can't grieve for someone you've lost, or you simply feel that life is too much - we can work with that. You will decide what your aims are - but maybe a life lived in colour and ease would be a good start.
I am particularly interested in the way that things that go wrong in childhood can bite us as adults - it might show as low self esteem, high anxiety levels, feeling overwhelmed by things you could once deal with. If there's a residue of pain from earlier in your life that is causing you problems now - maybe relationship issues, or perhaps you can't grieve for someone you've lost, or you simply feel that life is too much - we can work with that. You will decide what your aims are - but maybe a life lived in colour and ease would be a good start.
01473 943441 View 01473 943441
Photo of Dr Rebecca Moran, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Rebecca Moran
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Clinical Psychologist and EMDR therapist, registered with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC, Reg: PYL041023). For over a decade, I have worked in public healthcare settings in the UK and Ireland; helping people, of all ages, to cope with and recover from emotional and behavioural difficulties such as Attachment issues, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, phobias and the impact of Trauma/Developmental Trauma. My approach is warm, compassionate, and empathetic. I provide a supportive and confidential space for you to safely explore your difficulties and current needs.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and EMDR therapist, registered with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC, Reg: PYL041023). For over a decade, I have worked in public healthcare settings in the UK and Ireland; helping people, of all ages, to cope with and recover from emotional and behavioural difficulties such as Attachment issues, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, phobias and the impact of Trauma/Developmental Trauma. My approach is warm, compassionate, and empathetic. I provide a supportive and confidential space for you to safely explore your difficulties and current needs.
01245 945723 View 01245 945723
Photo of Claudia Brooker - Light Bubble Counselling, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Light Bubble Counselling
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
Do you carry pain that doesn't have a clear explanation; in your body, your relationships, or both? Maybe you've lived with complex trauma, abuse, or experiences from childhood that still shape how safe the world feels now. Maybe that shows up as fibromyalgia or chronic pain your body won't let go of, or as patterns in your closest relationships that feel impossible to shift. Many people I work with have spent years searching for answers their bodies and minds couldn't quite put into words. Together, we make sense of what's underneath, at a pace that feels right for you. English and French session.
Do you carry pain that doesn't have a clear explanation; in your body, your relationships, or both? Maybe you've lived with complex trauma, abuse, or experiences from childhood that still shape how safe the world feels now. Maybe that shows up as fibromyalgia or chronic pain your body won't let go of, or as patterns in your closest relationships that feel impossible to shift. Many people I work with have spent years searching for answers their bodies and minds couldn't quite put into words. Together, we make sense of what's underneath, at a pace that feels right for you. English and French session.
01206 239169 View 01206 239169

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joanne Pender, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Joanne Pender
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
I am passionate about providing a caring and safe space where you can express and explore your issues in a non judgmental setting. By making room for understanding and compassion, the sessions can help you process emotions, recognise solutions and gain confidence. The Person Centred Approach is based on a deep respect for the person and the belief that the relationship between the counsellor and the client is of primary importance. It is the client who knows their issue and has the capacity within the safety of a therapeutic relationship to begin a healing process. I would be delighted to meet you.
I am passionate about providing a caring and safe space where you can express and explore your issues in a non judgmental setting. By making room for understanding and compassion, the sessions can help you process emotions, recognise solutions and gain confidence. The Person Centred Approach is based on a deep respect for the person and the belief that the relationship between the counsellor and the client is of primary importance. It is the client who knows their issue and has the capacity within the safety of a therapeutic relationship to begin a healing process. I would be delighted to meet you.
View
Photo of Rachael Sullivan, Counsellor, MBACP
Rachael Sullivan
Counsellor, MBACP
Basildon SS16
For the people that are emotionally exhausted from always having to hold it all together. Perhaps you struggle with overthinking, people pleasing, or feeling disconnected from yourself and your needs underneath it all. Experiences such as trauma, difficult relationships, and neglecting your own needs and desires may have left you stuck in survival mode, constantly carrying, coping, and trying to get through.
For the people that are emotionally exhausted from always having to hold it all together. Perhaps you struggle with overthinking, people pleasing, or feeling disconnected from yourself and your needs underneath it all. Experiences such as trauma, difficult relationships, and neglecting your own needs and desires may have left you stuck in survival mode, constantly carrying, coping, and trying to get through.
01268 269894 View 01268 269894
Photo of Karly Sanderson, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Karly Sanderson
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Alongside this, I also have particular expertise in somatic awareness, having completed additional training in trauma-informed practice and nervous system regulation.
I’m a BACP-registered integrative therapist with particular interest in anxiety and ADHD. I offer relational, neuro-affirming, trauma informed therapy tailored to you. My work is grounded in humanistic, psychodynamic and existential thinking, and I focus on helping you to understand the 'why' behind your experiences, not just managing symptoms, but making sense of what’s shaped you and how it’s still showing up in your life.
Alongside this, I also have particular expertise in somatic awareness, having completed additional training in trauma-informed practice and nervous system regulation.
I’m a BACP-registered integrative therapist with particular interest in anxiety and ADHD. I offer relational, neuro-affirming, trauma informed therapy tailored to you. My work is grounded in humanistic, psychodynamic and existential thinking, and I focus on helping you to understand the 'why' behind your experiences, not just managing symptoms, but making sense of what’s shaped you and how it’s still showing up in your life.
01702 967337 x44 View 01702 967337 x44
Photo of Kate Emery, Counsellor, MBACP
Kate Emery
Counsellor, MBACP
Hi, I’m a person-centered therapist who believes that you are the expert in your own life. My role is to offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Together, we’ll explore what matters most to you and work at a pace that feels right. I have experience supporting people through a wide range of challenges, including domestic violence, grief and loss, and the unique journeys of neurodiverse children and their families. I know how important it is to feel accepted just as you are, and I aim to create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly.
Hi, I’m a person-centered therapist who believes that you are the expert in your own life. My role is to offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Together, we’ll explore what matters most to you and work at a pace that feels right. I have experience supporting people through a wide range of challenges, including domestic violence, grief and loss, and the unique journeys of neurodiverse children and their families. I know how important it is to feel accepted just as you are, and I aim to create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly.
01268 201783 View 01268 201783
Photo of Laura Ball, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Laura Ball
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
1 Endorsed
Would you like to better understand yourself, your relationships and the patterns that shape your life? You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, negative, or dealing with the impact of trauma? When it's difficult to put feelings into words, art therapy offers alternative, non-verbal means to communicate and explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment. You don't have to be 'good' at art, or have any experience in art-making. I will provide materials and some prompts to guide you, but together we will find the support you need and methods that work for you.
Would you like to better understand yourself, your relationships and the patterns that shape your life? You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, negative, or dealing with the impact of trauma? When it's difficult to put feelings into words, art therapy offers alternative, non-verbal means to communicate and explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment. You don't have to be 'good' at art, or have any experience in art-making. I will provide materials and some prompts to guide you, but together we will find the support you need and methods that work for you.
01702 655503 View 01702 655503
Photo of Emily Meade, Counsellor, BACP
Emily Meade
Counsellor, BACP
Taking the first step in finding a new counsellor can feel daunting, and I truly understand that. My priority is to put you at ease and help you feel comfortable throughout the process. As a warm, non-judgmental, and experienced counsellor, I am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings.
Taking the first step in finding a new counsellor can feel daunting, and I truly understand that. My priority is to put you at ease and help you feel comfortable throughout the process. As a warm, non-judgmental, and experienced counsellor, I am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings.
01284 335470 View 01284 335470

See more therapy options for Colchester

Somatic Counsellors
How does somatic therapy work?
Somatic therapy is a form of treatment that focuses on how the body and mind are interconnected. In this approach, physical symptoms are addressed because they may in fact signal emotional distress. Somatic therapists combine mindfulness, talk therapy, breathwork, yoga, dance, and physical manipulations of the body to help patients become more attuned to what their body is telling them.

Is EMDR a somatic therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a form of somatic therapy, as it incorporates mental and physical principles. EMDR involves remembering a traumatic experience while allowing one’s eyes to track a side-to-side visual stimulus from a therapist. This lateral eye movement is believed to diminish the painful power of the memory so that it can be discussed with a therapist.

Is somatic therapy evidence-based?
Somatic therapy has been researched and studied, and some forms of somatic therapy are found to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions. Because somatic therapy encompasses many techniques, some, such as EMDR and meditation, have been studied more than others.

What is somatic trauma therapy?
Somatic trauma therapy is based on the idea that when people experience trauma, they can become stuck in the “freeze” part of a “fight, flight, or freeze” response. In this state, trauma can manifest itself both mentally and physically—through tension in the muscles, anxiety, and stress. Popular forms of somatic trauma therapy include EMDR, sensorimotor therapy, and somatic experiencing.