Counselling in Exeter

I offer short and longer term work, on specific issues such as anxiety, trauma and identity issues, or more general feelings of discontent or curiosity. I am committed to remaining aware of recent developments and research in mental health and wellbeing, as well as developing my own understanding and progression.
I offer short and longer term work, on specific issues such as anxiety, trauma and identity issues, or more general feelings of discontent or curiosity. I am committed to remaining aware of recent developments and research in mental health and wellbeing, as well as developing my own understanding and progression.

Dr Agnieszka (Agnes) Zalewska, Psychoanalysis
Psychotherapist, PhD, BPC
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
I am accredited psychoanalytic psychotherapist, training psychoanalytic psychotherapist approved by the leading providers of training in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy, and a supervisor. I offer a non-judgmental space to talk and think, for how long it is needed, with the minimum frequency of 1-3 sessions per week.
I am accredited psychoanalytic psychotherapist, training psychoanalytic psychotherapist approved by the leading providers of training in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy, and a supervisor. I offer a non-judgmental space to talk and think, for how long it is needed, with the minimum frequency of 1-3 sessions per week.

I work ONLINE and Face-to-Face in Topsham. I have over 40 years experience working effectively in private practice as an integrative holistic healthcare practitioner and previously as a nurse in both the NHS and private healthcare specialising in women’s health. My psychotherapeutic counselling practice draws upon several humanistic, psychodynamic and solution focused approaches incorporating the very best techniques including creative ways of working to best fit your needs. I have a lot of life experience both personally and professionally. I am a good listener. I am not easily shocked.
I work ONLINE and Face-to-Face in Topsham. I have over 40 years experience working effectively in private practice as an integrative holistic healthcare practitioner and previously as a nurse in both the NHS and private healthcare specialising in women’s health. My psychotherapeutic counselling practice draws upon several humanistic, psychodynamic and solution focused approaches incorporating the very best techniques including creative ways of working to best fit your needs. I have a lot of life experience both personally and professionally. I am a good listener. I am not easily shocked.

Life can be hard sometimes and struggling with things alone is the loneliest place. Counselling offers you the space to say things that you can’t to anyone else, and know that you won’t be judged. When you sit with with me in the therapeutic space, my attention is fully and exclusively for you – this is something that we rarely experience, and is why people often struggle with feelings of not being heard or seen. I create the space for you to talk and explore your feelings, what may be going on underneath the feelings and how your life experiences have shaped you.
Life can be hard sometimes and struggling with things alone is the loneliest place. Counselling offers you the space to say things that you can’t to anyone else, and know that you won’t be judged. When you sit with with me in the therapeutic space, my attention is fully and exclusively for you – this is something that we rarely experience, and is why people often struggle with feelings of not being heard or seen. I create the space for you to talk and explore your feelings, what may be going on underneath the feelings and how your life experiences have shaped you.

Catherine C Davies
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I specialise in the field of unresolved grief, loss, overwhelm and trauma. I offer EMDR therapy to clients who seek to fulfil their potential away from painful life events and overwhelming stressors. I have experience in treating single or complex traumas both in primary care settings and private practice, alongside supporting the emotional wellbeing of any individuals at high risk of stress, anxiety and burnout. Over the last seventeen years as an integrative psychotherapist, supervisors clinical lead and EMDR Consultant in training, I have also experienced a broad spectrum of clients' concerns and presentations.
I specialise in the field of unresolved grief, loss, overwhelm and trauma. I offer EMDR therapy to clients who seek to fulfil their potential away from painful life events and overwhelming stressors. I have experience in treating single or complex traumas both in primary care settings and private practice, alongside supporting the emotional wellbeing of any individuals at high risk of stress, anxiety and burnout. Over the last seventeen years as an integrative psychotherapist, supervisors clinical lead and EMDR Consultant in training, I have also experienced a broad spectrum of clients' concerns and presentations.

Hi! I'm Shannon and I am an Integrative counsellor. I offer a safe, healing, and inclusive space to explore any concerns or issues that might be affecting your day to day life. If you're finding that you are struggling to put your needs first, overcommitting, becoming overwhelmed, feeling lost, struggling with low confidence and self belief, then counselling might be something to consider. Together, we will work towards helping you understand yourself better and empower you to make changes so you can live a more authentic and balanced life.
Hi! I'm Shannon and I am an Integrative counsellor. I offer a safe, healing, and inclusive space to explore any concerns or issues that might be affecting your day to day life. If you're finding that you are struggling to put your needs first, overcommitting, becoming overwhelmed, feeling lost, struggling with low confidence and self belief, then counselling might be something to consider. Together, we will work towards helping you understand yourself better and empower you to make changes so you can live a more authentic and balanced life.

Hi, I specialise in working with bereavement, particularly in cases of complex grief and traumatic loss, as well as infertility and baby loss. I am passionate about and qualified to support individuals dealing with eating disorders and disordered eating. I also possess experience in working with neurodivergent individuals. I can also help you feel empowered and supported as you navigate your journey with issues such as body image, bullying, emotional regulation, family difficulties, friendship issues, lack of confidence, loneliness, low self-esteem, military family issues, OCD, self-harm, suicide, and trauma.
Hi, I specialise in working with bereavement, particularly in cases of complex grief and traumatic loss, as well as infertility and baby loss. I am passionate about and qualified to support individuals dealing with eating disorders and disordered eating. I also possess experience in working with neurodivergent individuals. I can also help you feel empowered and supported as you navigate your journey with issues such as body image, bullying, emotional regulation, family difficulties, friendship issues, lack of confidence, loneliness, low self-esteem, military family issues, OCD, self-harm, suicide, and trauma.

My own experiences of therapy have taught me that my own change and growth became possible when i could open and relax into a felt sense of trust and safety. I appreciate that if you are struggling now or have suffered in the past- to open yourself up to- and risk trusting another might bring mixed feelings of hope and fear. Yet, to take a step into the unknown is the invitation and challenge of therapy. I have been a client; in my experience the risk i took set out upon the adventure of counselling has been an acceptable one and the rewards are great.
My own experiences of therapy have taught me that my own change and growth became possible when i could open and relax into a felt sense of trust and safety. I appreciate that if you are struggling now or have suffered in the past- to open yourself up to- and risk trusting another might bring mixed feelings of hope and fear. Yet, to take a step into the unknown is the invitation and challenge of therapy. I have been a client; in my experience the risk i took set out upon the adventure of counselling has been an acceptable one and the rewards are great.

Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted by stress, burnout, or life’s demands? Struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or navigating a midlife crisis? You’re not alone. I help Millennials and Gen X break free from overwhelm, rebuild confidence, and create a life of clarity, balance, and fulfillment. Whether you're facing work stress, ADHD, loneliness, or weight challenges, I offer compassionate support and proven strategies to help you regain control. It’s time to prioritize your well-being—let’s take the first step toward your transformation today.
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted by stress, burnout, or life’s demands? Struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or navigating a midlife crisis? You’re not alone. I help Millennials and Gen X break free from overwhelm, rebuild confidence, and create a life of clarity, balance, and fulfillment. Whether you're facing work stress, ADHD, loneliness, or weight challenges, I offer compassionate support and proven strategies to help you regain control. It’s time to prioritize your well-being—let’s take the first step toward your transformation today.

Psychotherapy and counselling is a bit like building an extension on our home. Our home is ourselves. Wherever we go in the world, we take ourselves with us. We are our vehicle to life. Would you like to navigate life in a home that is built the way you have chosen, that is solid and stable and where there are no limits to its growth? The good news about building your extension is that you don’t have to do it alone. I will be steadfastly alongside you, as you explore yourself and your reasons for arriving into therapy. Through working with me, it is possible to live your life with more ease, comfort and choice.
Psychotherapy and counselling is a bit like building an extension on our home. Our home is ourselves. Wherever we go in the world, we take ourselves with us. We are our vehicle to life. Would you like to navigate life in a home that is built the way you have chosen, that is solid and stable and where there are no limits to its growth? The good news about building your extension is that you don’t have to do it alone. I will be steadfastly alongside you, as you explore yourself and your reasons for arriving into therapy. Through working with me, it is possible to live your life with more ease, comfort and choice.

Agatha Penney MSc, PGDip, AccCOSRT, AccBACP
Psychotherapist, MSc, COSRT Accred
Verified Verified
Online Only
Sometimes we may feel that everything we experience in life is difficult, challenging or simply doesn't make sense anymore. The amount of pressure we need to handle every day combined with all these repressed and unprocessed memories of things we never dealt with can easily lead to many psycho-physical issues. We all possess physical, mental/emotional and sexual healths. When our physical health needs attention, we go to see a doctor. Sadly, we often disregard the latter. We think we can handle it all, where in fact we are getting weaker, less resilient to adversities and prone to negative feelings & reactions.
Sometimes we may feel that everything we experience in life is difficult, challenging or simply doesn't make sense anymore. The amount of pressure we need to handle every day combined with all these repressed and unprocessed memories of things we never dealt with can easily lead to many psycho-physical issues. We all possess physical, mental/emotional and sexual healths. When our physical health needs attention, we go to see a doctor. Sadly, we often disregard the latter. We think we can handle it all, where in fact we are getting weaker, less resilient to adversities and prone to negative feelings & reactions.
Meet Our Counsellors

Through exploring how your life may be impacted by anxiety, depression, fear, anger, overthinking or burnout, we’ll work together developing lasting supportive ways to overcome challenging times. I specialise in relationship issues, family conflict, domestic abuse, childhood trauma, childhood sexual abuse, adult sexual abuse, discrimination and prejudice. I tailor your support to enable the exploration, understanding and release of deep-rooted emotions and patterns. I'm experienced supporting people living with PTSD, CPTSD, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Through exploring how your life may be impacted by anxiety, depression, fear, anger, overthinking or burnout, we’ll work together developing lasting supportive ways to overcome challenging times. I specialise in relationship issues, family conflict, domestic abuse, childhood trauma, childhood sexual abuse, adult sexual abuse, discrimination and prejudice. I tailor your support to enable the exploration, understanding and release of deep-rooted emotions and patterns. I'm experienced supporting people living with PTSD, CPTSD, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.

I believe that counselling cannot be 'one size fits all '. Everyone is unique, and while people may have similar experiences, no one else has lived your exact life. As an integrative counsellor, I will tailor our sessions to your needs and goals. I understand that not everyone comes to counselling because they want to. Sometimes, it can feel like a last resort or a step taken with hesitation. Reaching out for support can be daunting, and facing the challenges that bring you here takes immense courage. This is a non-judgmental space where you can feel safe to explore at your own pace.
I believe that counselling cannot be 'one size fits all '. Everyone is unique, and while people may have similar experiences, no one else has lived your exact life. As an integrative counsellor, I will tailor our sessions to your needs and goals. I understand that not everyone comes to counselling because they want to. Sometimes, it can feel like a last resort or a step taken with hesitation. Reaching out for support can be daunting, and facing the challenges that bring you here takes immense courage. This is a non-judgmental space where you can feel safe to explore at your own pace.

Do you feel stuck, anxious or overwhelmed? Perhaps worry, lack of confidence or low self esteem is having a negative effect on your life, causing you to feel isolated and alone. Talking to loved one about what we are experiencing can feel difficult, we worry that we are putting to much on them or we don't want them to worry about us. Talking to a counsellor can be really helpful at these times and can show a way forward. However I understand that a good counselling relationship is vital to support you in moving toward your goals.
Do you feel stuck, anxious or overwhelmed? Perhaps worry, lack of confidence or low self esteem is having a negative effect on your life, causing you to feel isolated and alone. Talking to loved one about what we are experiencing can feel difficult, we worry that we are putting to much on them or we don't want them to worry about us. Talking to a counsellor can be really helpful at these times and can show a way forward. However I understand that a good counselling relationship is vital to support you in moving toward your goals.

I offer a warm, informal and grounded presence where you'll be empowered to safely explore the issues affecting you right now. As an integrative therapist, I bring multiple therapeutic approaches to our sessions with down to earth realness, and gentle understanding.
I offer a warm, informal and grounded presence where you'll be empowered to safely explore the issues affecting you right now. As an integrative therapist, I bring multiple therapeutic approaches to our sessions with down to earth realness, and gentle understanding.

I am a warm and compassionate Chartered Clinical Psychologist registered with the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC). I have worked in mental health services within the NHS for over 10 years. I am based in Exeter and offer support to adults with anxiety and mood difficulties using a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach. I can meet with you face to face at my practice rooms in central Exeter or online via video call. My main approach is Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and I incorporate ideas from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT) and Narrative Therapy where these may be helpful.
I am a warm and compassionate Chartered Clinical Psychologist registered with the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC). I have worked in mental health services within the NHS for over 10 years. I am based in Exeter and offer support to adults with anxiety and mood difficulties using a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach. I can meet with you face to face at my practice rooms in central Exeter or online via video call. My main approach is Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and I incorporate ideas from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT) and Narrative Therapy where these may be helpful.

Hello, my name is Saskia and I specialise in relationship therapy, life transitions and exploration of the self. I work with clients from the ages of sixteen + and I have an in-depth experience of working with individuals and couples/partnerships at my practice. This includes, the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, teenagers, family members, friendships and couples/partnerships.
Hello, my name is Saskia and I specialise in relationship therapy, life transitions and exploration of the self. I work with clients from the ages of sixteen + and I have an in-depth experience of working with individuals and couples/partnerships at my practice. This includes, the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, teenagers, family members, friendships and couples/partnerships.

I'm a relational integrative therapist meaning, the relationship is the therapy. It also means I use different types of therapy to meet your needs because, you are unique. Integrative therapy helps you become a more integrated whole person, better able to experience the entire range of your behaviour, emotions and thoughts as well as improving your relationship with yourself and others. Neuroplasticity continues throughout the lifespan which means that change and improvement in the way we feel is always possible and therapy is the best way to achieve this.
I'm a relational integrative therapist meaning, the relationship is the therapy. It also means I use different types of therapy to meet your needs because, you are unique. Integrative therapy helps you become a more integrated whole person, better able to experience the entire range of your behaviour, emotions and thoughts as well as improving your relationship with yourself and others. Neuroplasticity continues throughout the lifespan which means that change and improvement in the way we feel is always possible and therapy is the best way to achieve this.

I am a HCPC registered Clinical & Forensic Psychologist with over 25 years experience working in NHS and independent healthcare services, universities, and providing expert witness services. I am warm, approachable and flexible in my approach and specialise in comprehensive assessments (includng neurodiversity assessments of Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD), schema therapy and EMDR for PTSD.
I am a HCPC registered Clinical & Forensic Psychologist with over 25 years experience working in NHS and independent healthcare services, universities, and providing expert witness services. I am warm, approachable and flexible in my approach and specialise in comprehensive assessments (includng neurodiversity assessments of Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD), schema therapy and EMDR for PTSD.

Dr Claire Treleaven - Perinatal Psychologist
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 12 years experience in the NHS, supporting individuals at some of the most difficult times in their lives. I specialise in supporting women, birthing people and couples, for whom difficult or traumatic experiences of pregnancy, birth, fertility, becoming a parent, and baby loss are common. This is an extremely vulnerable period in a woman’s life, with so much uncertainty and change to navigate. For many, having a safe space to be able to explore and make sense of their experiences, and often their own experience of being parented, enables them to make changes and move toward their goals.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 12 years experience in the NHS, supporting individuals at some of the most difficult times in their lives. I specialise in supporting women, birthing people and couples, for whom difficult or traumatic experiences of pregnancy, birth, fertility, becoming a parent, and baby loss are common. This is an extremely vulnerable period in a woman’s life, with so much uncertainty and change to navigate. For many, having a safe space to be able to explore and make sense of their experiences, and often their own experience of being parented, enables them to make changes and move toward their goals.
See more therapy options for Exeter
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Exeter
200+
Average cost per session
£55
Counsellors in Exeter who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
84% | Self Esteem |
81% | Stress |
77% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Bereavement |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
43% | AXA PPP |
43% | Bupa |
41% | Aviva |
How Counsellors in Exeter see their clients
82% | In Person and Online | |
18% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Exeter?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Most Psychologists in the directory are accredited members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and/or are registered in the Health and Care Professions Council (HPCP).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in the UK. Psychologists have earned a degree in psychology and many are members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and have completed a postgraduate qualification in a specialism. Counsellors and Psychotherapists are not required to have a psychology degree, but to belong to a professional organisation such as the BACP or UKCP, they are required to have completed a training course as well as clinical and supervision hours.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the UK could be between £30 - £60 when seeing a counsellor and £60 - £150 and up when seeing a clinical psychologist. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the BACP, the UKCP, or BPS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there has been participation in a criminal act or act of terror, or if there is potential or known harm to the client or others, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.