Sexual Abuse Counselling in Exeter

See all counsellors in Exeter
Photo of Jane Meares, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Jane Meares
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
Verified
I support adults affected by low self esteem, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, often those who have experienced the death of a loved one, childhood sexual abuse , or other trauma in life.
Do you put on a brave face but feel different on the inside? Perhaps you’re empty and numb, or overwhelmed by emotions? Are you finding it hard to cope day-to-day? I know how tough life can be at times and how lonely it feels when no one seems to understand. If you’re wondering when you’ll feel happy or hopeful again, or you’re worrying about the future and fearing the worst, or maybe you’re struggling with a big change and a sense of who you are; I’d like to help. Being able to talk freely to someone, without fear of judgement or shame, can be a huge relief.
01392 321316
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Exeter EX4
& Online
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Victoria Riddiford, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Victoria Riddiford
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
My name is Victoria, and I am an accredited counsellor with many years experience of working with life's difficulties, including anxiety, depression, relationships, bereavement and trauma. I have specialist experience in working with the ongoing impact of sexual abuse and rape. I offer in-person counselling in a ground floor therapy room in central Exeter, and I also work via Zoom and telephone. I offer a safe, confidential space to talk through issues that are troubling you, at your pace, so you can move forward with your life. We'll work together to establish a trusting relationship, where you feel listened to and understood.
01392 321344
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Exeter EX4
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Sophie Leach, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Sophie Leach
Counsellor, MNCS Accred
Verified
Verified
I work with people experiencing some stress or anxiety, feeling depressed, and also the common problem that 'something isn't right but I can't quite work out what'. I can help you develop coping strategies and process what's happening until you get back to a position where you feel happy and in control of your own life. I have a particular interest in working with sexual abuse and trauma. I also enjoy working with student counsellors - please get in touch to discuss arrangements.
01392 321813
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Exeter EX4
& Online
Photo of Claudia Denington, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Claudia Denington
Counsellor, BACP
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I have lots of experience working with relationship issues, self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and work related issues. For many people who come to see me, they are looking for a supportive space during times of overwhelm, or want to work through areas of life which feel challenging. For some, the goal may be simply feeling better, for others we might work towards a more specific goal. Usually sessions will be held on a weekly basis during the same time slot each week. I integrate a range of different psychotherapeutic approaches subject to your needs.
01626 243075
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Exeter EX1
& Online
Photo of Kevin Dudman, Psychotherapist in Exeter, England
Kevin Dudman
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified
Verified
Hello my name is Kevin. I specialise in the treatment of trauma including accidents, medical trauma, work place and childhood bullying, domestic abuse, rape, sexual abuse and traumatic grief. I can also help you with depression, anxiety, worry, low self -esteem, OCD, phobias, body and self esteem issues, chronic pain, porn and Internet addiction. I am an EMDR Consultant and Accredited CBT Psychotherapist with over thirty years’ experience in working in Mental Health within the NHS. Twenty of these have been in senior positions supervising and supporting the clinical practice of a wide range of psychological therapists.
01354 700709
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Exeter EX1
& Online
Photo of Jade Flowers, Psychotherapist in Exeter, England
Jade Flowers
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified
Verified
If you're currently navigating through anxiety, depression, anger management, the aftermath of a painful breakup, grief, trauma, domestic violence, sexual or physical assault , emotional abuse, or any other personal struggle, I want you to know that I'm here to offer my heartfelt support. I specialise in trauma. It's completely understandable if you yearn for a profound change in your life—a transformation that encompasses your relationships, thoughts, and behaviors. While the path ahead may feel overwhelming, I want you to remember that together we can break down these challenges into smaller, more manageable pieces.
01392 321950
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Exeter EX4
& Online
Photo of Rosalind Coon, Psychologist in Exeter, England
Rosalind Coon
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified
Verified
Many people who have experienced trauma (eg road traffic accidents, traumatic bereavement, job or serious financial loss, physical and sexual abuse ) find EMDR to be particularly effective.
As a clinical psychologist I work with adults, children, adolescents, and families to address a variety of psychological difficulties. With over 25 years experience, I am skilled in a variety of psychological interventions, drawing on different approaches as appropriate. I work with adults experiencing a variety of difficulties from depression and anxiety to loss and relationship issues. I am particularly interested in working with children and adolescents: whether working with anxiety, self harm, poor self esteem or family conflict, I aim to help parents and children feel supported, and to foster loving family relationships.
07480 736724
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Exeter EX4
& Online
Photo of Magda Janaszek, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Magda Janaszek
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
Verified
I work with adults, couples and young people on a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, stress, grief, loss, domestic abuse, sexual abuse , relationship issues, existential crisis and much more.
I am a fully qualified Therapeutic Counsellor and a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) based in Plymouth, Devon, UK. My aim is to provide a respectful, safe, confidential and supportive environment where clients can explore and work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe that each individual has the ability to reach their true potential within safe and non-judgemental space that the therapeutic relationship can offer. I am passionate about helping people to recognise their self-worth and to achieve their goals.
07525 755527
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Office is near:
Exeter EX4
& Online
Photo of Tracy Dixon, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Tracy Dixon
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified
Verified
In addition to my private practice, I also volunteer for a Plymouth agency which offers counselling to carers and to those who have experienced sexual abuse or domestic abuse.
Hello, my name is Tracy. Thank you for looking at my profile. You may be considering counselling for any number of reasons. You may be feeling lost, low, anxious or confused. You might want to talk about something difficult that has happened to you. You may not know exactly what you want to talk about but you know that things don't feel quite 'right'. That's ok, we can work it out together. I can help with many mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma, relationship difficuties or work stress.
01572 498988
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Office is near:
Exeter EX14
& Online
Photo of Carol Hazelton Counselling, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Carol Hazelton Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified
Verified
Life can be hard at times... Are you struggling with everyday situations, are you anxious, depressed or just wondering what its all about? Perhaps you are having relationships problems? I can work with individuals or couples to explore how your situation can be improved and what changes you might need to make. Maybe I'm the person who can be by your side while you make sense of what is making you unhappy or not right in your life... if it sounds as if I'm the right person, please call. I'd really like to try and help.
01392 549707
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Exeter EX1
& Online
Photo of Catherine Roguski, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Catherine Roguski
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified
Verified
I work ONLINE via WhatsApp, FaceTime or Zoom and in Topsham. I have over 39 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.
01392 549042
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Exeter EX3
& Online
Photo of Maria Alda Gomez Otero, Psychotherapist in Exeter, England
Maria Alda Gomez Otero
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified
Verified
Thinking about going to therapy can feel humiliating. You might think that you are failing, or not good enough because you need help. You might have internalised that therapy is only for those who are weak or mad, and you know you are not any of those things. Therapy is not a corrective method for what is wrong in someone: it is a journey of transformation, like an adventure, but an internal journey. It takes courage to ask for help and embark on it because it has challenges, but also rewards. Therapy is for the brave ones who decide to leave their past behind, and are ready to change their lives.
01392 573776
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Exeter EX4
& Online
Photo of Saskia Layburn, Psychotherapist in Exeter, England
Saskia Layburn
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
It's natural to feel a little bit hesitant or nervous when looking for someone to talk to. It's a big step.  If you're reading this, you've already made that step into looking into your options, that's something in itself.  When, or if, you feel that you are ready to contact someone, know that I hold a safe space and a listening ear. Whether you are looking for your first experience of counselling, or perhaps you have had sessions with another therapist and are looking to start a new chapter. Feel free to get in touch and we can have a relaxed conversation regarding your hopes and expectations that may surround counselling.
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Exeter EX1
& Online
Photo of Alex Moseley Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist in Exeter, England
Alex Moseley Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified
Verified
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.
01392 537159
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Exeter EX4
& Online
Photo of Paula Bowen-Scott, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Paula Bowen-Scott
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
Verified
I work mainly with adults from all walks of life, all looking to find a more meaningful and fulfilling way of living. Whatever your issues are, together we will explore why you are feeling this way, and work towards change. We will look at what has led to your current issues and what it is you are looking for in order to create those changes. I have a lot of experience working not only face to face but also online and via phone. There is always a choice of a better way of feeling but we sometimes get stuck and unable to find a way forward alone. I can help you to untangle how you are feeling and clear the way for a new path.
01392 719726
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Exeter EX4
& Online
Photo of Nicola Grieveson, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Nicola Grieveson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
Verified
If you are looking for someone with many years of professional experience qualified and professional with a kind, compassionate manner I can help. I have experience with diagnosed mental health issues and everyday struggles with relationships, feeling sad, depressed, anxious and pre occupied with worries. Confidential and private in a relaxed atmosphere.
01392 573743
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Exeter EX4
& Online
Photo of Phoebe Davey, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Phoebe Davey
Counsellor, BACP
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Therapy is a journey, it can provide a safe space to explore any issues that you may be experiencing and help you to make sense of your world.
01392 719361
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Exeter EX1
& Online
Photo of Heather Beveridge, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Heather Beveridge
Counsellor, MSc, MNCS Accred
Verified
Verified
Is your life overwhelming? Is your mental health suffering?Do you feel that you need to offload and share whatever difficulties you may be facing? Are you are looking for a counsellor or psychotherapist that actively listens and understands? I am an experienced mental health practitioners and here to help. Sometimes children and young people get stuck and need a little help too. I also have a great deal of experience working with children and young people. When your child is struggling, trying to get help can feel an impossible task. I offer creative therapy without the stress of a long waiting list.
01392 321603
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Exeter EX1
& Online
Photo of Charlotte Mizen, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Charlotte Mizen
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified
Verified
I am currently meeting via Skype/Zoom or telephone. If you want to commence and are worried about CV-19 please do contact and we can make arrangements. We can all experience difficult and painful times and life some sometimes feel hard to manage, often leaving us feeling alone and afraid, feeling that we need some support and understanding from a professional. My practice is to work alongside people in order to help them gain some insight and understanding about their difficulties as well as feel supported and heard. Depression, anxiety, loss and separation are some of the more difficult issues we come up against in life.
01392 573820
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Exeter EX4
& Online
Photo of Judy Gibbons, Counsellor in Exeter, England
Judy Gibbons
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
Verified
Maybe there is a specific event you are aware of, or thoughts & feelings are overwhelming for no known reason. Perhaps you've not been feeling yourself or maybe something has always been missing. Together, we can explore the feelings, thoughts & relational patterns that have been causing you distress. I can support you to gain a deeper understanding of the effects of past experiences & how these may impact your struggles in the present. I hope to encourage self-acceptance as a good enough person, quietening the inner critic & bringing compassion to the relationship you have with yourself & transforming your relationship with others.
01392 549067
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Exeter EX3
& Online

See more therapy options for

Sexual Abuse Counsellors

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.