Chronic Illness Counselling in Exeter
I see therapy as a safe place to gently explore and make more sense of our lives; where we can gain insight, challenge our beliefs, process our experiences and find better ways of being. I believe we gain insight and develop a sense of ourselves through relationship. I have particular experience and skills in working with relationships, loss and bereavement, issues from childhood, including sexual abuse, neglect and attachment.
I see therapy as a safe place to gently explore and make more sense of our lives; where we can gain insight, challenge our beliefs, process our experiences and find better ways of being. I believe we gain insight and develop a sense of ourselves through relationship. I have particular experience and skills in working with relationships, loss and bereavement, issues from childhood, including sexual abuse, neglect and attachment.
Is life an uphill battle, but not sure why? Are you anxious, depressed or worried about the future? I understand how hard it is to take that step and ask for help. I can help you identify and understand what’s going on for you. The anxiety eases, the brain fog lifts, you feel calmer and know yourself better.
I work with children, young people and adults with a wide range of life transitions and concerns including:
• Anxiety
• Depression
• ADHD
•. Low self-esteem/self-confidence
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Trauma/past painful experiences
• Relationship issues
• Sleep problems
• Grief and Loss
Is life an uphill battle, but not sure why? Are you anxious, depressed or worried about the future? I understand how hard it is to take that step and ask for help. I can help you identify and understand what’s going on for you. The anxiety eases, the brain fog lifts, you feel calmer and know yourself better.
I work with children, young people and adults with a wide range of life transitions and concerns including:
• Anxiety
• Depression
• ADHD
•. Low self-esteem/self-confidence
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Trauma/past painful experiences
• Relationship issues
• Sleep problems
• Grief and Loss
You are welcome here just as you are, however dark, difficult or unclear things seem to be. I have long been drawn to the image of the phoenix as a metaphor for what can happen in therapy, representing the possibility of a re-birth, of transformation from the ashes of our losses and our hopes and dreams. I believe that this image of therapy offers hope when it feels like there is precious little of it. However, a re-birth might involve a painful coming to terms with our lives; a grieving, and an imaginative approach to what the symptoms of our distress might be pointing to. Maybe there is wisdom and gold in the tears and grief.
You are welcome here just as you are, however dark, difficult or unclear things seem to be. I have long been drawn to the image of the phoenix as a metaphor for what can happen in therapy, representing the possibility of a re-birth, of transformation from the ashes of our losses and our hopes and dreams. I believe that this image of therapy offers hope when it feels like there is precious little of it. However, a re-birth might involve a painful coming to terms with our lives; a grieving, and an imaginative approach to what the symptoms of our distress might be pointing to. Maybe there is wisdom and gold in the tears and grief.
I am passionate about supporting people facing the many challenges life brings with it, such as transitioning through life events. This includes parenthood, menopause, retirement, bereavement, diagnosis of chronic or terminal illness, and many others. I have particular interest in working with people experiencing negative consequences of being disabled, whether this is physically, or mentally. I have experience working in weight management and pain management, where people often suffer discrimination due to their condition. If this is you, please get in touch. You don't deserve to suffer because of what happened to you.
I am passionate about supporting people facing the many challenges life brings with it, such as transitioning through life events. This includes parenthood, menopause, retirement, bereavement, diagnosis of chronic or terminal illness, and many others. I have particular interest in working with people experiencing negative consequences of being disabled, whether this is physically, or mentally. I have experience working in weight management and pain management, where people often suffer discrimination due to their condition. If this is you, please get in touch. You don't deserve to suffer because of what happened to you.
Lex Hristova Cognitive Behavioural
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I am Lexi. I am a warm, approachable, and highly skilled psychotherapist, Oxford-educated and BABCP-accredited, with over 10 years of experience in the NHS and psychotherapy services. As a Senior Lecturer in Psychology, I also teach and supervise other clinicians in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
If you feel that anxiety, low mood, or low self-esteem are affecting your daily activities, getting in the way of your relationships, or stopping you from enjoying your life, you may want to try CBT, which is the most effective therapy for those difficulties.
Hello, I am Lexi. I am a warm, approachable, and highly skilled psychotherapist, Oxford-educated and BABCP-accredited, with over 10 years of experience in the NHS and psychotherapy services. As a Senior Lecturer in Psychology, I also teach and supervise other clinicians in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
If you feel that anxiety, low mood, or low self-esteem are affecting your daily activities, getting in the way of your relationships, or stopping you from enjoying your life, you may want to try CBT, which is the most effective therapy for those difficulties.
Picking Up The Pieces also provides Cancer & chronic illness counselling, Bereavement Counselling/Support & Couples Counselling/Therapy - Contact us.
I'm Megan. Life can throw unexpected difficulties in our direction at any time & things can get tough making you feel anxious, fearful, sad, trapped or alone causing you to struggle & feel you cant find your way out-you are alone. Picking Up the Pieces can help you to understand your situation better, together we can find ways forward, enhance choices to regain control & achieve a happier you.
Picking Up The Pieces also provides Cancer & chronic illness counselling, Bereavement Counselling/Support & Couples Counselling/Therapy - Contact us.
I'm Megan. Life can throw unexpected difficulties in our direction at any time & things can get tough making you feel anxious, fearful, sad, trapped or alone causing you to struggle & feel you cant find your way out-you are alone. Picking Up the Pieces can help you to understand your situation better, together we can find ways forward, enhance choices to regain control & achieve a happier you.
Hi, and welcome to my profile. Clients I work with have arrived feeling anxious, depressed, low in confidence, or overwhelmed with emotions that make daily life feel difficult. Others have come with relationship issues, identity questions, or major life changes which have been challenging to navigate alone. Some have experienced a bereavement, including pregnancy loss, or the death of a baby or child. Together we have explored what it is that they are experiencing, helping them to make sense of it, and found a way to move forward with greater peace, clarity, strength and renewed momentum.
Hi, and welcome to my profile. Clients I work with have arrived feeling anxious, depressed, low in confidence, or overwhelmed with emotions that make daily life feel difficult. Others have come with relationship issues, identity questions, or major life changes which have been challenging to navigate alone. Some have experienced a bereavement, including pregnancy loss, or the death of a baby or child. Together we have explored what it is that they are experiencing, helping them to make sense of it, and found a way to move forward with greater peace, clarity, strength and renewed momentum.
The process of seeking and finding professional counselling and therapy can be daunting, but you have already taken the first step!
My counselling process is client focused and tailored. You and your personal journey are unique, therefore there is no "one size fits all" approach in my therapy space. Although I have had a long and varied education into counselling, psychology and social forces, I remain convinced by a fact that I learned on the first day of my degree. It is often not the method of counselling which predicts a benefit to our clients, but the relationship between client and practitioner.
The process of seeking and finding professional counselling and therapy can be daunting, but you have already taken the first step!
My counselling process is client focused and tailored. You and your personal journey are unique, therefore there is no "one size fits all" approach in my therapy space. Although I have had a long and varied education into counselling, psychology and social forces, I remain convinced by a fact that I learned on the first day of my degree. It is often not the method of counselling which predicts a benefit to our clients, but the relationship between client and practitioner.
I have many years of experience supporting and guiding individuals to overcome struggles in their lives, whether it be coping with bereavement to living with chronic illness, insomnia, low self esteem, burnout, relationship issues, anxieties, depression and so forth.
Therapy can be challenging at times but this is often what leads to insight and transformation. As a qualified Clinical Psychologist, I draw on a range of effective and recommended therapies to help you achieve your goals; working alongside you to discover shared understanding and a way forward in order to help you create change in your life.
I have many years of experience supporting and guiding individuals to overcome struggles in their lives, whether it be coping with bereavement to living with chronic illness, insomnia, low self esteem, burnout, relationship issues, anxieties, depression and so forth.
Therapy can be challenging at times but this is often what leads to insight and transformation. As a qualified Clinical Psychologist, I draw on a range of effective and recommended therapies to help you achieve your goals; working alongside you to discover shared understanding and a way forward in order to help you create change in your life.
I am a compassionate and experienced counsellor dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges.
Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and healing can be daunting, but with the right support, it becomes a transformative experience.
I am a dedicated and empathetic counsellor who provides a safe and nurturing space for individuals to navigate life's complexities. I approach each client with compassion and respect, fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship built on trust and authenticity.
I am a compassionate and experienced counsellor dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges.
Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and healing can be daunting, but with the right support, it becomes a transformative experience.
I am a dedicated and empathetic counsellor who provides a safe and nurturing space for individuals to navigate life's complexities. I approach each client with compassion and respect, fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship built on trust and authenticity.
Often, the reasons given to me for arriving to therapy are feature one or more of the following: anxiety, depression, sadness, self confidence, life changing illnesses, self identity, early childhood, past or present relationships, bereavements, traumatic experiences, injury and mental health diagnosis. How these issues and difficult feelings manifest in people's lives are unique and so 'reasons' may be identified as problems or difficulties with: addictions; work; intimate or family relationships; children and parenting; personal or spiritual identity, or something existential. Therapy offers to solute and salve these issues.
Often, the reasons given to me for arriving to therapy are feature one or more of the following: anxiety, depression, sadness, self confidence, life changing illnesses, self identity, early childhood, past or present relationships, bereavements, traumatic experiences, injury and mental health diagnosis. How these issues and difficult feelings manifest in people's lives are unique and so 'reasons' may be identified as problems or difficulties with: addictions; work; intimate or family relationships; children and parenting; personal or spiritual identity, or something existential. Therapy offers to solute and salve these issues.
Welcome. I'm here to offer you a gentle, accepting space where you can talk freely, without judgement and without being told what to do. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, lost, or simply in need of someone to listen, I’m alongside you, at your pace, in your own time.
As a German working in the UK, I bring a different cultural perspective to counselling, one that blends directness with warmth, and attentiveness with clarity. This outlook can help clients see things in a new light, offering fresh ways of understanding long-standing emotional challenges.
Welcome. I'm here to offer you a gentle, accepting space where you can talk freely, without judgement and without being told what to do. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, lost, or simply in need of someone to listen, I’m alongside you, at your pace, in your own time.
As a German working in the UK, I bring a different cultural perspective to counselling, one that blends directness with warmth, and attentiveness with clarity. This outlook can help clients see things in a new light, offering fresh ways of understanding long-standing emotional challenges.
Welcome. My name is Antonella and I'm an experienced and dedicated counsellor working with both adults and young people. I support people who are going through all kinds of struggles and challenges. Clients I have worked with have told me that for the first time they were able to talk and express their feelings and thoughts about themselves and life as they felt safe and comfortable. I offer a safe and confidential space where you are free to explore yourself and your concerns, and discover your inner resources at your own pace. I will genuinely listen, be with you and accept you for who you are without judgement.
Welcome. My name is Antonella and I'm an experienced and dedicated counsellor working with both adults and young people. I support people who are going through all kinds of struggles and challenges. Clients I have worked with have told me that for the first time they were able to talk and express their feelings and thoughts about themselves and life as they felt safe and comfortable. I offer a safe and confidential space where you are free to explore yourself and your concerns, and discover your inner resources at your own pace. I will genuinely listen, be with you and accept you for who you are without judgement.
Hi, I'm Siobhan, an accredited Senior Psychotherapist (CBT) and HCPC registered Occupational therapist. I have 12+ years of experience comprised of working in NHS mental health services, university mental health and private practice. My passion is helping people with anxiety and OCD learn how to live a life that is not ruled by anxiety. I completed my training at the Oxford Cognitive Therapy Centre (Oxford University) and was privileged to be taught be leading experts in CBT for OCD and anxiety. I also have experience work with people experiencing low mood, depression and low self-esteem.
Hi, I'm Siobhan, an accredited Senior Psychotherapist (CBT) and HCPC registered Occupational therapist. I have 12+ years of experience comprised of working in NHS mental health services, university mental health and private practice. My passion is helping people with anxiety and OCD learn how to live a life that is not ruled by anxiety. I completed my training at the Oxford Cognitive Therapy Centre (Oxford University) and was privileged to be taught be leading experts in CBT for OCD and anxiety. I also have experience work with people experiencing low mood, depression and low self-esteem.
Hi Welcome.
As a fully qualified and accredited Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (NCPS), I am dedicated to supporting clients through their life’s challenges. I offer a holistic approach to help you navigate difficult circumstances and find a way forward. Together, we'll work towards realistic goals that foster healing and growth.
I offer tailored therapy to suit you.
Approaches are Person-centred, CBT, gestalt, and mindfulness. I adapt our sessions to your unique needs. Whether Face-Face, video call phone. We can incorporate creative methods for a holistic healing experience, in a safe & supportive environment.
Hi Welcome.
As a fully qualified and accredited Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (NCPS), I am dedicated to supporting clients through their life’s challenges. I offer a holistic approach to help you navigate difficult circumstances and find a way forward. Together, we'll work towards realistic goals that foster healing and growth.
I offer tailored therapy to suit you.
Approaches are Person-centred, CBT, gestalt, and mindfulness. I adapt our sessions to your unique needs. Whether Face-Face, video call phone. We can incorporate creative methods for a holistic healing experience, in a safe & supportive environment.
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.
Perhaps you’re a survivor of abuse or violence, living with chronic illness, or struggling with relationships and self-worth.
I offer an integrative, trauma-informed approach tailored to your needs. Drawing on Person-Centred counselling, IFS, TA, somatic awareness, and creative methods, I provide a collaborative space to explore challenges, uncover strengths, nurture growth, and build insight. My practice is grounded in empathy, curiosity, and respect for your pace.
Perhaps you’re a survivor of abuse or violence, living with chronic illness, or struggling with relationships and self-worth.
I offer an integrative, trauma-informed approach tailored to your needs. Drawing on Person-Centred counselling, IFS, TA, somatic awareness, and creative methods, I provide a collaborative space to explore challenges, uncover strengths, nurture growth, and build insight. My practice is grounded in empathy, curiosity, and respect for your pace.
Hi, my name is Jane Blackburn. If you're reading this, you’ve probably found that life isn’t always as straight-forward as we’d like and that it can really take a toll on each of us. I have experience supporting people facing all sorts of challenges in their lives including: anxiety, stress, depression, panic attacks, difficulties expressing themselves, low self-esteem, and relationship difficulties, to name but a few. I can even support you if you just feel a little bit ‘off’, as though things are ‘not quite right’. The first step towards making a positive change is to ask for help, even if that feels daunting to do.
Hi, my name is Jane Blackburn. If you're reading this, you’ve probably found that life isn’t always as straight-forward as we’d like and that it can really take a toll on each of us. I have experience supporting people facing all sorts of challenges in their lives including: anxiety, stress, depression, panic attacks, difficulties expressing themselves, low self-esteem, and relationship difficulties, to name but a few. I can even support you if you just feel a little bit ‘off’, as though things are ‘not quite right’. The first step towards making a positive change is to ask for help, even if that feels daunting to do.
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.
When one of life’s problems becomes overwhelming, you may be feeling anxious or distraught, it can make a real difference prioritising your needs and talking to a counsellor who can listen to you with compassion and without judgement. Life can feel challenging at times, stressful and full of uncertainty; are you struggling to cope with work or family life? Has life set you back? Or are you looking for some peace and calm in your life? Whatever you are struggling with or want to focus on, then I am here to help you. You don’t have to go through this alone.
When one of life’s problems becomes overwhelming, you may be feeling anxious or distraught, it can make a real difference prioritising your needs and talking to a counsellor who can listen to you with compassion and without judgement. Life can feel challenging at times, stressful and full of uncertainty; are you struggling to cope with work or family life? Has life set you back? Or are you looking for some peace and calm in your life? Whatever you are struggling with or want to focus on, then I am here to help you. You don’t have to go through this alone.
See more therapy options for Exeter
Nearby Chronic Illness Counsellors Searches for Exeter
- Ashburton
- Crediton
- Exmouth
- Honiton
- Newton Abbot
- Okehampton
- Seaton
- Teignmouth
- Tiverton
- Topsham
- Torquay
- Wellington
Chronic Illness Counsellors
How does therapy for chronic illness work?
Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.
Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?
Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.
What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?
No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.
How long does therapy for chronic illness take?
There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.