Suicidal Ideation Counselling in Exeter

Photo of Dr Rochelle Woollacott, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Rochelle Woollacott
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have worked with many clients with varying degrees of personal difficulties; severe and mild distress including depression, anxiety, suicide, low-self-esteem, earlier life trauma, PTSD, relational difficulties and many more.
I offer a safe space for my clients to explore their difficulties without fear of judgement. I am compassionate, supportive and gentle challenging psychologist. My experience has come from working as a psychotherapist in NHS mental health services. I work in an integrative way and I use diagnostic labels cautiously to avoid medicalising notions of distress.
I have worked with many clients with varying degrees of personal difficulties; severe and mild distress including depression, anxiety, suicide, low-self-esteem, earlier life trauma, PTSD, relational difficulties and many more.
I offer a safe space for my clients to explore their difficulties without fear of judgement. I am compassionate, supportive and gentle challenging psychologist. My experience has come from working as a psychotherapist in NHS mental health services. I work in an integrative way and I use diagnostic labels cautiously to avoid medicalising notions of distress.
01837 516734 View 01837 516734
Photo of John Doré, Counsellor, MBACP
John Doré
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX4
Waitlist for new clients
Coming to counselling can feel a little daunting; sharing some of our private thoughts and feelings with someone that we do not know can be hard and can feel a little strange. I will help to make you feel comfortable and at ease by offering you a safe, confidential space for you to talk openly, and at a pace that suits you. I am committed to ensuring that you will feel heard, accepted and understood and I will make every effort to appreciate what it is like to be you and to help you understand your feelings and emotions.
Coming to counselling can feel a little daunting; sharing some of our private thoughts and feelings with someone that we do not know can be hard and can feel a little strange. I will help to make you feel comfortable and at ease by offering you a safe, confidential space for you to talk openly, and at a pace that suits you. I am committed to ensuring that you will feel heard, accepted and understood and I will make every effort to appreciate what it is like to be you and to help you understand your feelings and emotions.
01392 321349 View 01392 321349
Photo of Paula Bowen-Scott, Counsellor, MBACP
Paula Bowen-Scott
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX4
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.
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 View 01392 719726
Photo of Sinéad Meehan, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Sinéad Meehan
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Exeter EX1
I'm Sinéad, a psychotherapist-in-training offering low-cost therapy in Exeter. Life can be uncertain and challenging, but you don’t have to face those times alone. I provide a supportive, compassionate, and non-judgmental space in which to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Having trained as a mindfulness teacher, I recognise the intimate connection between body and mind: a principle that sits at the heart of my work. In this, I understand the important role nature plays in our emotional and mental well-being and have a keen interest in ecopsychotherapy.
I'm Sinéad, a psychotherapist-in-training offering low-cost therapy in Exeter. Life can be uncertain and challenging, but you don’t have to face those times alone. I provide a supportive, compassionate, and non-judgmental space in which to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Having trained as a mindfulness teacher, I recognise the intimate connection between body and mind: a principle that sits at the heart of my work. In this, I understand the important role nature plays in our emotional and mental well-being and have a keen interest in ecopsychotherapy.
01392 321619 View 01392 321619
Photo of Helen Catherine Breach, Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Helen Catherine Breach
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
You may be struggling with relationships, often feeling rejected or misunderstood. You might live with anxiety, carry guilt even when you’ve done nothing wrong, or notice familiar patterns of self-doubt or low mood returning. You’re looking for a supportive, collaborative space to make sense of what’s happening and to focus on meaningful change. Through thoughtful, time-focused work, your aim is to feel more confident, connected, and at ease — both within yourself and in your relationships.
You may be struggling with relationships, often feeling rejected or misunderstood. You might live with anxiety, carry guilt even when you’ve done nothing wrong, or notice familiar patterns of self-doubt or low mood returning. You’re looking for a supportive, collaborative space to make sense of what’s happening and to focus on meaningful change. Through thoughtful, time-focused work, your aim is to feel more confident, connected, and at ease — both within yourself and in your relationships.
01803 221966 View 01803 221966
Photo of Debbie Lavinchi - Two's-Talking Counselling & Supervision Service, Counsellor, MBACP
My name is Debbie and I am a registered therapist with BACP and NCPS. I offer counselling face to face, online or via a telephone service. I work with person/s over the age of eight years old. I can help you with stress, anxiety/depression, anger, bereavement, relationships, abuse and couple's therapy. I understand you want to see a therapist as soon as you make that decision to do so. I will validate your feelings and i will acknowledge how distressing you are experiencing your life right now. I want to help you and I aim to see you within 7 working days. My goal is to get you to where you want to be.
My name is Debbie and I am a registered therapist with BACP and NCPS. I offer counselling face to face, online or via a telephone service. I work with person/s over the age of eight years old. I can help you with stress, anxiety/depression, anger, bereavement, relationships, abuse and couple's therapy. I understand you want to see a therapist as soon as you make that decision to do so. I will validate your feelings and i will acknowledge how distressing you are experiencing your life right now. I want to help you and I aim to see you within 7 working days. My goal is to get you to where you want to be.
01392 690620 View 01392 690620
Photo of George Long, Counsellor, MBACP
George Long
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX1
Are you feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Struggling to get through the day? Or perhaps something just isn't feeling right. I've been there, and I want to help you get through it. I know how hard it can be to reach out. Whether you're struggling with possible or diagnosed ADHD or ND, trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem or relationship issues (romantic, familial or friendly), I want to help. I provide a safe and supportive environment where you can bring whatever you need to our sessions. I aim to facilitate an exploration of your experiences and emotions so you can step closer to who you truly are.
Are you feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Struggling to get through the day? Or perhaps something just isn't feeling right. I've been there, and I want to help you get through it. I know how hard it can be to reach out. Whether you're struggling with possible or diagnosed ADHD or ND, trauma, anxiety, low self-esteem or relationship issues (romantic, familial or friendly), I want to help. I provide a safe and supportive environment where you can bring whatever you need to our sessions. I aim to facilitate an exploration of your experiences and emotions so you can step closer to who you truly are.
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Photo of Kate Needs, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Kate Needs
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
I hold an advanced diploma in counselling, MSc Psychology, CBT dip, have counselled people bereaved by suicide at Rethink MI, and a wide variety of people at Margaret Jackson Centre.
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 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
I hold an advanced diploma in counselling, MSc Psychology, CBT dip, have counselled people bereaved by suicide at Rethink MI, and a wide variety of people at Margaret Jackson Centre.
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 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
01572 491353 View 01572 491353
Photo of Amy Mellin, Counsellor, MBACP
Amy Mellin
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
Sometimes life is hard. I recognise that we are all unique and your reasons for seeking therapy will be as individual as you. As an Integrative Counsellor I can help you to; implement changes, process trauma safely, increase self worth, manage symptoms of anxiety and/or depression, look at how past experiences and/or relationships may be impacting you in the present and much more, in ways that resonate with you. I believe that we are all unique and so should be our approach to therapy.
Sometimes life is hard. I recognise that we are all unique and your reasons for seeking therapy will be as individual as you. As an Integrative Counsellor I can help you to; implement changes, process trauma safely, increase self worth, manage symptoms of anxiety and/or depression, look at how past experiences and/or relationships may be impacting you in the present and much more, in ways that resonate with you. I believe that we are all unique and so should be our approach to therapy.
01392 542887 View 01392 542887
Photo of Naomi Brookes - Naomi Brookes Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Naomi Brookes Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX1
My name is Naomi, and I offer warm, reflective counselling for adults navigating grief, loss, burnout, life transitions and workplace stress. I came to counselling through my own significant life transitions, and after more than 20 years working in professional environments — including a decade supporting staff through change and welfare concerns. That background shapes everything about how I work. I understand what it feels like to hold it all together on the outside while struggling underneath, and I bring both professional experience and genuine personal empathy to the room.
My name is Naomi, and I offer warm, reflective counselling for adults navigating grief, loss, burnout, life transitions and workplace stress. I came to counselling through my own significant life transitions, and after more than 20 years working in professional environments — including a decade supporting staff through change and welfare concerns. That background shapes everything about how I work. I understand what it feels like to hold it all together on the outside while struggling underneath, and I bring both professional experience and genuine personal empathy to the room.
01572 491319 View 01572 491319
Photo of Karen Hedges, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Karen Hedges
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX2
Hello, I'm Karen. If you are looking for ways to make positive changes and move forward with your life, I can help you. I'm experienced in working alongside a range of people, and have a particular interest in helping people who may have ADHD (attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder) or be on the autistic spectrum. If you feel that your emotions, thoughts and behaviours are not serving you well, then I will help you to understand them so that you can identify what needs to change. Using approaches to suit you, I'll support you to overcome your difficulties.
Hello, I'm Karen. If you are looking for ways to make positive changes and move forward with your life, I can help you. I'm experienced in working alongside a range of people, and have a particular interest in helping people who may have ADHD (attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder) or be on the autistic spectrum. If you feel that your emotions, thoughts and behaviours are not serving you well, then I will help you to understand them so that you can identify what needs to change. Using approaches to suit you, I'll support you to overcome your difficulties.
01392 690594 View 01392 690594
Photo of Judy Gibbons, Counsellor, MBACP
Judy Gibbons
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX3
I am an experienced Integrative counsellor and Level 3 Internal Family Systems therapist, working with adults across a wide range of life's challenges in the Exeter area and on-line. I hope to encourage self-acceptance as a good enough person, quietening the inner critic & bringing self-compassion to the relationship you have with your parts & transforming your relationship with others. 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 am an experienced Integrative counsellor and Level 3 Internal Family Systems therapist, working with adults across a wide range of life's challenges in the Exeter area and on-line. I hope to encourage self-acceptance as a good enough person, quietening the inner critic & bringing self-compassion to the relationship you have with your parts & transforming your relationship with others. 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.
01392 549067 View 01392 549067
Photo of Emil Fiederle, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Emil Fiederle
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
2 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
I am a senior trainee psychotherapist offering individual psychotherapy from my practice in Exeter. I’m currently completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Mindfulness-based Core Process Psychotherapy. This approach uses mindfulness to help us slow down and connect with our present-moment experience - whether that’s challenging, joyful, or somewhere in between. By becoming more present, we can explore what we’re really feeling in our minds, bodies, and relationships. With the above in mind, my aim is to offer a safe, supportive space where you can bring whatever is arising for you.
I am a senior trainee psychotherapist offering individual psychotherapy from my practice in Exeter. I’m currently completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Mindfulness-based Core Process Psychotherapy. This approach uses mindfulness to help us slow down and connect with our present-moment experience - whether that’s challenging, joyful, or somewhere in between. By becoming more present, we can explore what we’re really feeling in our minds, bodies, and relationships. With the above in mind, my aim is to offer a safe, supportive space where you can bring whatever is arising for you.
01392 321048 View 01392 321048
Photo of Antonella Depetro, Counsellor, MBACP
Antonella Depetro
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
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.
01392 321204 View 01392 321204
Photo of Renee Norris - Renee Norris Counselling, 1-2-1, Couples & 13+, Counsellor, MBACP
Clients generally come to me when they are struggling with some aspect of their emotions, thoughts or behaviour. My aim is to help my client with accepting or changing some aspect of these three areas. Every client comes with unique issues and from my seat I view the issues as one, "a block in the road to wellness". I am keenly aware that all clients come with individual goals and I am here to help. Many of my clients use the phrase “I just want to feel better". This is my hope for everyone who engages with me in therapy. “TO FEEL BETTER” I offer confidentiality, openness and transparency at all times.
Clients generally come to me when they are struggling with some aspect of their emotions, thoughts or behaviour. My aim is to help my client with accepting or changing some aspect of these three areas. Every client comes with unique issues and from my seat I view the issues as one, "a block in the road to wellness". I am keenly aware that all clients come with individual goals and I am here to help. Many of my clients use the phrase “I just want to feel better". This is my hope for everyone who engages with me in therapy. “TO FEEL BETTER” I offer confidentiality, openness and transparency at all times.
01392 531578 View 01392 531578
Photo of Richard Oster, Counsellor, MBACP
Richard Oster
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX1
Life can be both beautiful and bleak, calm and stormy. Pain and suffering are inevitable parts of the human experience, and when these challenges arise, it’s not always possible to face them alone. As social beings, many of our struggles emerge from our interactions and experiences with others. Yet, with the right support, human connection has the power to bring about healing and growth.
Life can be both beautiful and bleak, calm and stormy. Pain and suffering are inevitable parts of the human experience, and when these challenges arise, it’s not always possible to face them alone. As social beings, many of our struggles emerge from our interactions and experiences with others. Yet, with the right support, human connection has the power to bring about healing and growth.
01572 491497 View 01572 491497
Photo of Tash Thomas-Still, Counsellor, MBACP
Tash Thomas-Still
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
You may feel weighed down by trauma, grief, anxiety, or the impact of painful experiences that feel too heavy to carry alone. Perhaps you’re a survivor of abuse or violence, living with chronic illness, or struggling with relationships and self-worth. You may long for relief, understanding, and a supportive space where every part of you is accepted. Maybe you want to make sense of your story, process difficult memories, or discover new ways of coping. Together, we can explore your experiences, honour your strengths, and move toward clarity, resilience, renewed hope, and meaningful new possibilities for the future.
You may feel weighed down by trauma, grief, anxiety, or the impact of painful experiences that feel too heavy to carry alone. Perhaps you’re a survivor of abuse or violence, living with chronic illness, or struggling with relationships and self-worth. You may long for relief, understanding, and a supportive space where every part of you is accepted. Maybe you want to make sense of your story, process difficult memories, or discover new ways of coping. Together, we can explore your experiences, honour your strengths, and move toward clarity, resilience, renewed hope, and meaningful new possibilities for the future.
01392 542868 View 01392 542868
Photo of George Petrou, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
George Petrou
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Exeter EX4
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.
01392 321107 View 01392 321107
Photo of Tonia Aitken, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Tonia Aitken
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Exeter EX1
Though I work with people who have experienced a broad range of emotional and psychological difficulties and trauma, I have particular interest in working with bereavement and loss (including the loss of a loved one to suicide); women’s issues; couples work and relationship problems of all kinds (including domestic abuse).
Hello, I’m Tonia, a relational psychotherapist trained in Transactional Analysis(TA). The decision to go to therapy is never an easy one. Approaching someone you don’t know to share intimate details about painful subjects can feel daunting. However, please be reassured, I am an experienced, warm, and empathic practitioner who is open minded and non-judgmental. I offer a safe and totally confidential space for us to work closely together to help you understand yourself and your relationships better, and to explore what may be going on behind the difficult emotions, thoughts and behaviours troubling you.
Though I work with people who have experienced a broad range of emotional and psychological difficulties and trauma, I have particular interest in working with bereavement and loss (including the loss of a loved one to suicide); women’s issues; couples work and relationship problems of all kinds (including domestic abuse).
Hello, I’m Tonia, a relational psychotherapist trained in Transactional Analysis(TA). The decision to go to therapy is never an easy one. Approaching someone you don’t know to share intimate details about painful subjects can feel daunting. However, please be reassured, I am an experienced, warm, and empathic practitioner who is open minded and non-judgmental. I offer a safe and totally confidential space for us to work closely together to help you understand yourself and your relationships better, and to explore what may be going on behind the difficult emotions, thoughts and behaviours troubling you.
01392 537182 View 01392 537182
Photo of Jurgen Wolfram Schwarz, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Jurgen Wolfram Schwarz
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Exeter EX1
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.
01392 321548 View 01392 321548

See more therapy options for Exeter

Suicidal Ideation Counsellors
How does therapy for suicidal ideation work?
Stress, depression, anxiety, or upsetting circumstances can give rise to suicidal thinking. Therapy can address the events at the core of an individual’s suffering. Understanding why a person may be suicidal can help the therapist and the patient discover alternative methods of coping. A person with suicidal ideation may be mired in catastrophic thinking, and treatment like cognitive behavioural therapy is a good choice for breaking such patterns. In addition, treatment such as acceptance and commitment therapy can help a person manage their distress through better emotion regulation.

Which therapies are best for suicidal ideation?
Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioural, dialectical behaviour, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioural and dialectical behaviour therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful thoughts and past traumas. These therapies help an individual tolerate distress, regulate emotions, and not act on dangerous urges.

Are there specific medications to be combined with therapy?
The use of medication for suicidal thoughts must be aligned with the underlying cause; conditions such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis may be at the root of suicidal ideation. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for symptoms, which may include antipsychotics such as aripiprazole or antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

How often and how long are therapy sessions for suicidal ideation?
As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, while others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. Still other patients, especially those with co-occurring conditions like major depression and anxiety, may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months. In some cases, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm.