Domestic Abuse Counselling in Darlington

Photo of Sue Smith, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Sue Smith
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
In private practice I have worked with adult survivors of childhood abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, sudden death, accidents and suicide of loved ones.
I have worked therapeutically with individuals for over 30 years. My passion is working with trauma including complex trauma. I utilise EMDR, Rewind and Unblocking Techniques to help clients 'take the charge out' of past events that impact on today. I also use CBT techniques and Psychoeducational work as and when required to help the therapeutic journey.
In private practice I have worked with adult survivors of childhood abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, sudden death, accidents and suicide of loved ones.
I have worked therapeutically with individuals for over 30 years. My passion is working with trauma including complex trauma. I utilise EMDR, Rewind and Unblocking Techniques to help clients 'take the charge out' of past events that impact on today. I also use CBT techniques and Psychoeducational work as and when required to help the therapeutic journey.
01388 436761 View 01388 436761
Photo of Bridget Chapman - Brigitte's Counselling Room , Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Brigitte's Counselling Room
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
I can relate to many issues that you may be struggling with, due to my personal experience of domestic violence, depression, and abuse.
Welcome to my profile! I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges. With a focus on Anxiety and Depression and it's impact on mental health. With years of experience, I have helped numerous clients find relief from Anxiety, build stronger relationships and achieve personal growth. I am committed to creating a therapeutic alliance that fosters growth, self-acceptance and resilience. My approach is grounded in empathy, confidentiality and respect. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients and specialise in working with members of the LGBT + community.
I can relate to many issues that you may be struggling with, due to my personal experience of domestic violence, depression, and abuse.
Welcome to my profile! I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges. With a focus on Anxiety and Depression and it's impact on mental health. With years of experience, I have helped numerous clients find relief from Anxiety, build stronger relationships and achieve personal growth. I am committed to creating a therapeutic alliance that fosters growth, self-acceptance and resilience. My approach is grounded in empathy, confidentiality and respect. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients and specialise in working with members of the LGBT + community.
01325 796914 View 01325 796914
Photo of Sharon Temple, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Sharon Temple
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Counsellor, HICBT & EMDR therapist Hi im Sharon. I offer a warm non-judgemental space where you can explore and express what's troubling you. Sometimes you might become stuck and not really know why or how to change your situation. At other times you might be looking for someone to provide support because of something specific.
Counsellor, HICBT & EMDR therapist Hi im Sharon. I offer a warm non-judgemental space where you can explore and express what's troubling you. Sometimes you might become stuck and not really know why or how to change your situation. At other times you might be looking for someone to provide support because of something specific.
07722 938114 View 07722 938114
Photo of Katherine Banner, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Katherine Banner
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
I support individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed, experience anxiety, or feel unheard. I help you explore questions such as: -How can I feel like myself again? How can I build better, more fulfilling relationships? My work focuses on both conscious and unconscious patterns in our lives and relationships, helping you gain a deeper understanding of what may be impacting you. I work with a range of challenges, including high anxiety, depression, and the effects of emotional neglect. I provide practical tools and resources to strengthen boundaries, improve communication, and work with somatic (bodily) trauma responses using EMDR.
I support individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed, experience anxiety, or feel unheard. I help you explore questions such as: -How can I feel like myself again? How can I build better, more fulfilling relationships? My work focuses on both conscious and unconscious patterns in our lives and relationships, helping you gain a deeper understanding of what may be impacting you. I work with a range of challenges, including high anxiety, depression, and the effects of emotional neglect. I provide practical tools and resources to strengthen boundaries, improve communication, and work with somatic (bodily) trauma responses using EMDR.
01325 809265 View 01325 809265
Photo of Fe Chrichard - Fe Robinson Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Fe Robinson Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Clients may have had difficult childhoods or have experienced abuse, or may be having problems currently.
I make it safe for clients to talk about what has happened to them and work to resolve their symptoms and to help them thrive. I use Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Solutions Focused Therapy and tailor my approach to each unique client.
Clients may have had difficult childhoods or have experienced abuse, or may be having problems currently.
I make it safe for clients to talk about what has happened to them and work to resolve their symptoms and to help them thrive. I use Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Solutions Focused Therapy and tailor my approach to each unique client.
0191 743 6319 View 0191 743 6319
Photo of Gail Marie Hickman, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Gail Marie Hickman
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
I am a qualified Counselling Psychologist delivering a variety of therapies in Darlington. My aim is to offer a safe and confidential space for you to explore your current difficulties thereby, facilitating your journey to improved well-being and happiness. I believe the key element for positive therapy is a good therapeutic relationship between my clients and myself. Therapy is designed to meet your individual needs and at a pace that is appropriate to your needs. Initial appointments are offered at a reduced rate in order for you to decide whether therapy is right for you at this time.
I am a qualified Counselling Psychologist delivering a variety of therapies in Darlington. My aim is to offer a safe and confidential space for you to explore your current difficulties thereby, facilitating your journey to improved well-being and happiness. I believe the key element for positive therapy is a good therapeutic relationship between my clients and myself. Therapy is designed to meet your individual needs and at a pace that is appropriate to your needs. Initial appointments are offered at a reduced rate in order for you to decide whether therapy is right for you at this time.
01325 525733 View 01325 525733
Photo of Soraya Hind - Soraya Hind Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Soraya Hind Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I have experience of supporting people with issues ranging from Hate Crime to Domestic Abuse.
My practice is mainly Person Centred, which means I will treat you with the upmost respect and empathy. I may also draw on an eclectic approach depending on what your needs are, and what you are comfortable with.
I have experience of supporting people with issues ranging from Hate Crime to Domestic Abuse.
My practice is mainly Person Centred, which means I will treat you with the upmost respect and empathy. I may also draw on an eclectic approach depending on what your needs are, and what you are comfortable with.
01325 808669 View 01325 808669
Photo of Andrea Johnson, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Andrea Johnson
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
2 Endorsed
I offer my clients a predominantly Person-Centred approach to counselling that is welcoming, understanding, non-judgemental and of course completely confidential. I currently work for an EAP Service and previously a Primary Care Mental Health Organisation alongside my own private practice which is based in Darlington. I can offer you an integrative approach to therapy which includes training in CBT, Creative Therapies and Mindfulness. I have extensive experience of working with difference, diversity, and a variety of issues, which means I can offer you a bespoke humanistic experience that is tailored to your unique needs.
I offer my clients a predominantly Person-Centred approach to counselling that is welcoming, understanding, non-judgemental and of course completely confidential. I currently work for an EAP Service and previously a Primary Care Mental Health Organisation alongside my own private practice which is based in Darlington. I can offer you an integrative approach to therapy which includes training in CBT, Creative Therapies and Mindfulness. I have extensive experience of working with difference, diversity, and a variety of issues, which means I can offer you a bespoke humanistic experience that is tailored to your unique needs.
01325 808533 View 01325 808533
Photo of Darren Gallagher - Darren Gallagher, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Darren Gallagher
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
I have specialist experience of working with loss, separation pre-bereavement and bereavement; stress; anxiety; attachment; low mood; self-esteem; grief; anger; domestic abuse; care experienced; adoption; neurodiversity; gender; sexuality and relationships.
Hello, I’m an accredited Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (UKCP/ MBACP) with a specialism of working with children, young people and adults. I have training in EMDR and have many years experience working with children and families within settings, such as hospices, charities, clinical settings, LAC teams and in the community. I am a humanistic, ‘integrative’ practitioner, so I use different methods to develop a warm, friendly relationship based on individual needs, respect and seeing the person as a whole – in other words - ‘I’m Ok – You’re Ok’. Please note I am not accepting new child referrals presently
I have specialist experience of working with loss, separation pre-bereavement and bereavement; stress; anxiety; attachment; low mood; self-esteem; grief; anger; domestic abuse; care experienced; adoption; neurodiversity; gender; sexuality and relationships.
Hello, I’m an accredited Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (UKCP/ MBACP) with a specialism of working with children, young people and adults. I have training in EMDR and have many years experience working with children and families within settings, such as hospices, charities, clinical settings, LAC teams and in the community. I am a humanistic, ‘integrative’ practitioner, so I use different methods to develop a warm, friendly relationship based on individual needs, respect and seeing the person as a whole – in other words - ‘I’m Ok – You’re Ok’. Please note I am not accepting new child referrals presently
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Photo of Sandra Pauline Pearson - Life Pathways Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Life Pathways Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Anxiety, panic attacks , Depression Relationships I offer expert help for anxiety related disorders ,including panic attack, I am able to deliver a broad range of tried and tested therapeutic techniques, to alleviate your anxiety, which can be triggered by various issues, such as work, health, relationships, loss to name a few. I use various approaches, CBT Solution Focused. Person Centred, and added extra training in the Rewind Technique, this is useful for trauma, and recurring troubled memories. EFT is a tapping technique can be useful for stress .
Anxiety, panic attacks , Depression Relationships I offer expert help for anxiety related disorders ,including panic attack, I am able to deliver a broad range of tried and tested therapeutic techniques, to alleviate your anxiety, which can be triggered by various issues, such as work, health, relationships, loss to name a few. I use various approaches, CBT Solution Focused. Person Centred, and added extra training in the Rewind Technique, this is useful for trauma, and recurring troubled memories. EFT is a tapping technique can be useful for stress .
01325 525772 View 01325 525772
Photo of Caroline Harvey, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Caroline Harvey
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I have helped many people, both in private practice and the NHS, overcome problems including those related to anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, relationships, stress, low self-esteem, loss, life transitions, or medically unexplained symptoms.
Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy draws on the concepts of psychoanalysis to help you understand and resolve your problems by increasing awareness of how your past can influence relationships and experiences in the present. It differs from other therapies and counselling in aiming for deep seated change in personality and emotional development.
I have helped many people, both in private practice and the NHS, overcome problems including those related to anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, relationships, stress, low self-esteem, loss, life transitions, or medically unexplained symptoms.
Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy draws on the concepts of psychoanalysis to help you understand and resolve your problems by increasing awareness of how your past can influence relationships and experiences in the present. It differs from other therapies and counselling in aiming for deep seated change in personality and emotional development.
01325 808146 View 01325 808146
Photo of Alison Louise Doherty, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Alison Louise Doherty
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
One of the things I love about EMDR is that it puts you, the client, in control, (something we may not have had very much of when our traumas were taking place). EMDR does not delete memories but simply changes the way painful memories are stored, so that when we think about them, they no longer trigger negative emotions or sensations. As my mother once said, you can go around it, under it or over it but at some point, you must go through it. I wish you strength and healing on your journey.
One of the things I love about EMDR is that it puts you, the client, in control, (something we may not have had very much of when our traumas were taking place). EMDR does not delete memories but simply changes the way painful memories are stored, so that when we think about them, they no longer trigger negative emotions or sensations. As my mother once said, you can go around it, under it or over it but at some point, you must go through it. I wish you strength and healing on your journey.
01748 900767 View 01748 900767
Photo of Danielle Louise Hammond - Clear Head Therapy, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Clear Head Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
Supporting adults with depression, anxiety, trauma & PTSD to Feel Calm, Confident and Back in Control. If anxiety is constantly running in the background of your life… If past trauma still feels close to the surface… If low mood or overwhelm is affecting your work, relationships or sleep… You don’t have to manage it alone. I help adults who are feeling stuck, distressed, or exhausted by anxiety, trauma, and depression move toward feeling more grounded, stable, and confident again. Therapy with me is practical, evidence-based, and focused on helping you experience meaningful change, not just temporary relief.
Supporting adults with depression, anxiety, trauma & PTSD to Feel Calm, Confident and Back in Control. If anxiety is constantly running in the background of your life… If past trauma still feels close to the surface… If low mood or overwhelm is affecting your work, relationships or sleep… You don’t have to manage it alone. I help adults who are feeling stuck, distressed, or exhausted by anxiety, trauma, and depression move toward feeling more grounded, stable, and confident again. Therapy with me is practical, evidence-based, and focused on helping you experience meaningful change, not just temporary relief.
01325 522484 View 01325 522484
Photo of Margaret Margaret Hirst, Counsellor, MBACP
Margaret Margaret Hirst
Counsellor, MBACP
I have worked closely with Mental Health. I am a qualified Adult and Child Counsellor using a Person Centred, Proactive approach, Play Therapy, Trauma informed process and attachment disorder therapy. I do support individuals to explore and manage their mental and emotional issues. I am non-judgemental and I will support individuals to make changes they wish and come to their own conclusions. I believe everyone has the potential to grow to reach their full potential, you will learn to set your own goals. Using a holistic approach highlights and encourages clients' strengths.
I have worked closely with Mental Health. I am a qualified Adult and Child Counsellor using a Person Centred, Proactive approach, Play Therapy, Trauma informed process and attachment disorder therapy. I do support individuals to explore and manage their mental and emotional issues. I am non-judgemental and I will support individuals to make changes they wish and come to their own conclusions. I believe everyone has the potential to grow to reach their full potential, you will learn to set your own goals. Using a holistic approach highlights and encourages clients' strengths.
01325 796970 View 01325 796970
Photo of Dr Nicky Ablett-Tate, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Nicky Ablett-Tate
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I have a lot of experience working with a range of human difficulties ranging from grief and trauma to relationship problems and all forms of abuse including diagnoses such as obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD and personality disorders.
Psychoanalytic psychotherapy offers a way of working with difficulties at depth, meaning the focus is at a conscious and an unconscious level. You can fully explore your thoughts, feelings, dreams and memories without a restrictive agenda. You will have the opportunity to think in detail about the way your past experiences have influenced your present.
I have a lot of experience working with a range of human difficulties ranging from grief and trauma to relationship problems and all forms of abuse including diagnoses such as obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD and personality disorders.
Psychoanalytic psychotherapy offers a way of working with difficulties at depth, meaning the focus is at a conscious and an unconscious level. You can fully explore your thoughts, feelings, dreams and memories without a restrictive agenda. You will have the opportunity to think in detail about the way your past experiences have influenced your present.
01325 796710 View 01325 796710
Photo of Nicola Jones - Nicola Jones Counselling and CBT, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Nicola Jones Counselling and CBT
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
I am a fully qualified and experienced Counsellor, Psychological Therapist and High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Supervisor. Often individuals will seek therapy because they feel unable to cope with the stresses of life or adjusting to a big change, not like 'their old self', isolated from others, worried or lost or just needing someone to listen. My role is to work together with individuals to make sense of what is happening for them and provide opportunities for change in away that they feel is appropriate and achievable at their own pace, within a private and confidential setting.
I am a fully qualified and experienced Counsellor, Psychological Therapist and High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Supervisor. Often individuals will seek therapy because they feel unable to cope with the stresses of life or adjusting to a big change, not like 'their old self', isolated from others, worried or lost or just needing someone to listen. My role is to work together with individuals to make sense of what is happening for them and provide opportunities for change in away that they feel is appropriate and achievable at their own pace, within a private and confidential setting.
01325 809788 View 01325 809788
Photo of Janet Rigby, Counsellor, MBACP
Janet Rigby
Counsellor, MBACP
With experience of working with clients who have experienced childhood sexual abuse, domestic abuse, grief, anxiety issues, bereavement, grief, fertility and child loss, FGM and shame.
I am skilled in therapy but you are the expert on yourself. I would work with you on your own personal issues and the reason for coming to counselling and work together to achieve your own goals.
With experience of working with clients who have experienced childhood sexual abuse, domestic abuse, grief, anxiety issues, bereavement, grief, fertility and child loss, FGM and shame.
I am skilled in therapy but you are the expert on yourself. I would work with you on your own personal issues and the reason for coming to counselling and work together to achieve your own goals.
01904 935326 View 01904 935326
Photo of Susan Rees - Surene Counselling and Wellbeing, Counsellor, MBACP
I specialise in anxiety/stress/burnout, abuse, and trauma.
If you are constantly running on empty, repeating old patterns, or feeling disconnected from yourself, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Many of my clients come to me feeling deeply burnt out, anxious, or trapped by relationship strains they can’t seem to shift. I provide a calm, collaborative space where we unpack that heavy, relentless pressure together. Whether you are navigating a major life shift or long-standing low mood, our goal is to build clarity, get you feeling steady, and help you find the small joys in everyday life again.
I specialise in anxiety/stress/burnout, abuse, and trauma.
If you are constantly running on empty, repeating old patterns, or feeling disconnected from yourself, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Many of my clients come to me feeling deeply burnt out, anxious, or trapped by relationship strains they can’t seem to shift. I provide a calm, collaborative space where we unpack that heavy, relentless pressure together. Whether you are navigating a major life shift or long-standing low mood, our goal is to build clarity, get you feeling steady, and help you find the small joys in everyday life again.
01325 522191 View 01325 522191
Photo of Dr Joanna Naxton, Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Dr Joanna Naxton
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Hello, I have current appointments available to work with a range of your worries, anxieties, loneliness, depression , self-harm and relationship difficulties. I offer online, phone and face to face sessions. I am a qualified therapist with interests in working closely with those who want to change some aspect of their life. I also work with student counsellors and qualified therapists offering supervision and counselling academic tuition . I offer short term or long term psychotherapy where we work hard together to form a relationship powerful enough to change things for you in your private life.
Hello, I have current appointments available to work with a range of your worries, anxieties, loneliness, depression , self-harm and relationship difficulties. I offer online, phone and face to face sessions. I am a qualified therapist with interests in working closely with those who want to change some aspect of their life. I also work with student counsellors and qualified therapists offering supervision and counselling academic tuition . I offer short term or long term psychotherapy where we work hard together to form a relationship powerful enough to change things for you in your private life.
01386 571500 View 01386 571500
Photo of Beverley Ann D'Arcy - Changing Minds Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Changing Minds Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Serves Area
I offer therapy for anxiety, eating disorders, relationship problems, emotionally unstable moods, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, addictions, PTSD, complex PTSD, trauma, body image issues, bereavement and loss, chronic stress, work issues, social phobia, health issues, self-harm, emotional and sexual abuse.
17 years as a psychotherapist providing therapy to people with complex and enduring mental health problems (mainly NHS) and clients with mild to moderate mental health issues referred by organisations. I carry out in depth assessments, quickly identify key issues and tailor therapy according to client need. I offer a confidential setting where clients are free to talk without fear of rejection, criticism of blame. I aim to provide someone with resources they can draw on to manage current and future anxiety, stresses, disabling symptoms and unstable moods.
I offer therapy for anxiety, eating disorders, relationship problems, emotionally unstable moods, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, addictions, PTSD, complex PTSD, trauma, body image issues, bereavement and loss, chronic stress, work issues, social phobia, health issues, self-harm, emotional and sexual abuse.
17 years as a psychotherapist providing therapy to people with complex and enduring mental health problems (mainly NHS) and clients with mild to moderate mental health issues referred by organisations. I carry out in depth assessments, quickly identify key issues and tailor therapy according to client need. I offer a confidential setting where clients are free to talk without fear of rejection, criticism of blame. I aim to provide someone with resources they can draw on to manage current and future anxiety, stresses, disabling symptoms and unstable moods.
07900 034481 View 07900 034481
Domestic Abuse Counsellors
What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?
Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?
Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.

What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?
Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.

How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?
It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.