Domestic Abuse Counselling in Harpenden

Photo of Carrie Pollard, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Carrie Pollard
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Serves Area
I am experienced working with trauma specifically domestic abuse, sexual abuse and adults who experienced childhood abuse.
Hello and welcome. I'm Carrie. I wonder why now feels the right time for you to start your therapy? Does life feel heavy? Or relationships feel difficult? Perhaps you are finding you are experiencing anxiety in your day to day life. Or experiences from your past feel so difficult. Whatever has prompted you to make your way here today, rest assured I provide a non judgemental, confidential and safe space to explore emotions, relationships and life experiences. We can think about your past and present, creating a feeling of safety and processing the pain.
I am experienced working with trauma specifically domestic abuse, sexual abuse and adults who experienced childhood abuse.
Hello and welcome. I'm Carrie. I wonder why now feels the right time for you to start your therapy? Does life feel heavy? Or relationships feel difficult? Perhaps you are finding you are experiencing anxiety in your day to day life. Or experiences from your past feel so difficult. Whatever has prompted you to make your way here today, rest assured I provide a non judgemental, confidential and safe space to explore emotions, relationships and life experiences. We can think about your past and present, creating a feeling of safety and processing the pain.
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Photo of Amy Engleman, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Amy Engleman
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Welcome — I’m Amy, a trauma-informed psychotherapist with over 10 years’ experience supporting adults through trauma, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and major life transitions. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or repeating patterns that no longer make sense, therapy can offer a space to slow things down and understand what’s really going on. I help clients make sense of their inner world, reduce emotional distress, and create meaningful, lasting change. My style is warm, collaborative, and gently direct — supportive without being vague.
Welcome — I’m Amy, a trauma-informed psychotherapist with over 10 years’ experience supporting adults through trauma, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and major life transitions. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or repeating patterns that no longer make sense, therapy can offer a space to slow things down and understand what’s really going on. I help clients make sense of their inner world, reduce emotional distress, and create meaningful, lasting change. My style is warm, collaborative, and gently direct — supportive without being vague.
01727 638148 View 01727 638148
Photo of Gay Lane, Counsellor, MBACP
Gay Lane
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a qualified Person-Centred therapist who works with a wide range of issues including anxiety, low mood, domestic abuse, sexual identity to name but a few.
Alongside my private practice I work for an agency in Dunstable called Sorted Counselling Services. At Sorted I run a specialized project for children and young people aged 13-25 years who are at risk of becoming exploited through crime. This includes sexual exploitation, gangs, county lines, knife crime and grooming.
I am a qualified Person-Centred therapist who works with a wide range of issues including anxiety, low mood, domestic abuse, sexual identity to name but a few.
Alongside my private practice I work for an agency in Dunstable called Sorted Counselling Services. At Sorted I run a specialized project for children and young people aged 13-25 years who are at risk of becoming exploited through crime. This includes sexual exploitation, gangs, county lines, knife crime and grooming.
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Photo of Jess Love, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Jess Love
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many of the people I work with bring anxiety, low mood, difficult relationships, or experiences of abuse.
If your mind runs fast, tangles itself in different threads, or feels overwhelming at times, you might be looking for a space to slow down and make sense of what’s going on inside. You may be navigating grief, identity shifts, difficult relationships, or feeling stuck and unsure how to move forward. Many of the people I work with think deeply, jump between ideas, or feel like a lot is happening internally, and want somewhere they don’t need to filter themselves. I welcome the parts of you that feel messy, contradictory, or hard to explain.
Many of the people I work with bring anxiety, low mood, difficult relationships, or experiences of abuse.
If your mind runs fast, tangles itself in different threads, or feels overwhelming at times, you might be looking for a space to slow down and make sense of what’s going on inside. You may be navigating grief, identity shifts, difficult relationships, or feeling stuck and unsure how to move forward. Many of the people I work with think deeply, jump between ideas, or feel like a lot is happening internally, and want somewhere they don’t need to filter themselves. I welcome the parts of you that feel messy, contradictory, or hard to explain.
01582 377926 View 01582 377926
Photo of Erica Spencer Green - Valley Counselling, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Valley Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Problems are personal, bereavement, depression, stress, relationship breakdowns and anxiety can all feel unbearable and isolating. The reasons for seeking counselling or psychotherapy are as unique and varied as we are. Sometimes we have an idea of what is annoying or upsetting us. Sometimes we struggle to understand issues that darken our days. We might enter a cycle of blame or self-loathing in which we get lost, finding it difficult to move forwards in our lives.
Problems are personal, bereavement, depression, stress, relationship breakdowns and anxiety can all feel unbearable and isolating. The reasons for seeking counselling or psychotherapy are as unique and varied as we are. Sometimes we have an idea of what is annoying or upsetting us. Sometimes we struggle to understand issues that darken our days. We might enter a cycle of blame or self-loathing in which we get lost, finding it difficult to move forwards in our lives.
01727 638101 View 01727 638101
Photo of Helene Clarke, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Helene Clarke
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
As an experienced and accredited counsellor and psychotherapist, I care deeply about what I do. You may be depressed, anxious, stressed, angry or have relationship problems or work-related difficulties. I will listen to you with empathy and without judgement so that can I see your world through your eyes and so that you feel heard. If your thoughts and feelings are confusing, conflicted or unclear, I will work with you collaboratively to unravel and make sense of them.
As an experienced and accredited counsellor and psychotherapist, I care deeply about what I do. You may be depressed, anxious, stressed, angry or have relationship problems or work-related difficulties. I will listen to you with empathy and without judgement so that can I see your world through your eyes and so that you feel heard. If your thoughts and feelings are confusing, conflicted or unclear, I will work with you collaboratively to unravel and make sense of them.
01582 377389 View 01582 377389
Photo of Renata Harris, Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Renata Harris
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Hello, I'm Renata. I am a Psychologist and Psychotherapist 20 years, and a BPS supervisor. I had extensive personal therapy myself. I aim to equip you with skills and self-acceptance to heal. I offer NICE recommended, holistic and relational therapy to get your life back on track, in a safe and validating space. I have worked in the NHS as a Psychology Lead for over 15 years. I have experience in working with most mental health diagnoses, eating disorders, neurodiversity (ADHD/ASD), addiction, bereavement, anxiety, low mood, stress, family and marital problems, issues with anger, self-esteem, trauma/PTSD. I speak English and Polish.
Hello, I'm Renata. I am a Psychologist and Psychotherapist 20 years, and a BPS supervisor. I had extensive personal therapy myself. I aim to equip you with skills and self-acceptance to heal. I offer NICE recommended, holistic and relational therapy to get your life back on track, in a safe and validating space. I have worked in the NHS as a Psychology Lead for over 15 years. I have experience in working with most mental health diagnoses, eating disorders, neurodiversity (ADHD/ASD), addiction, bereavement, anxiety, low mood, stress, family and marital problems, issues with anger, self-esteem, trauma/PTSD. I speak English and Polish.
01582 377599 View 01582 377599
Photo of Mariangela Milioto, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Mariangela Milioto
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Want to explore what's brought you to therapy in a safe, compassionate, non-judgemental setting? I'm an Integrative psychotherapist - the essence of my practice is to work with you transparently and with warmth, empathy, humour and gentle challenge.  Perhaps you’re struggling - feeling alone and isolated.  Maybe you’re overwhelmed, depressed, burnt out or anxious.  It could be that what you’re experiencing isn’t any of these - maybe you don't feel yourself and you don’t know why.  If you’re experiencing any of these feelings, sharing your burden through counselling can help.
Want to explore what's brought you to therapy in a safe, compassionate, non-judgemental setting? I'm an Integrative psychotherapist - the essence of my practice is to work with you transparently and with warmth, empathy, humour and gentle challenge.  Perhaps you’re struggling - feeling alone and isolated.  Maybe you’re overwhelmed, depressed, burnt out or anxious.  It could be that what you’re experiencing isn’t any of these - maybe you don't feel yourself and you don’t know why.  If you’re experiencing any of these feelings, sharing your burden through counselling can help.
01582 377470 View 01582 377470
Photo of Dr Lee Martin, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Dr Lee Martin
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
I am specialist trained in many areas including Trauma Work, Rape and Sexual Trauma, Abuse, Neurodiversity and Addictions, Anxiety and Depression.
Hello and Welcome, Life can indeed be difficult at times. Many are struggling with mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings can rise to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a PHD(Hon), Master Degree and EMDR(Accredited), I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
I am specialist trained in many areas including Trauma Work, Rape and Sexual Trauma, Abuse, Neurodiversity and Addictions, Anxiety and Depression.
Hello and Welcome, Life can indeed be difficult at times. Many are struggling with mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings can rise to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a PHD(Hon), Master Degree and EMDR(Accredited), I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
020 4538 6806 View 020 4538 6806
Photo of Emma Mahil - Emma Mahil Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Emma Mahil Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
I support clients with anxiety, depression, workplace stress, family conflict, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem and much more. I have extensive experience supporting clients with Autism and ADHD. My clients work with me to try and explore their emotions in the present moment, helping them to process feelings and work towards healing unresolved traumas. As my client, you are the expert of your own life and journey, so my sessions will be guided by you, as you choose to share whatever may be going on for you right now. With my support, you can work towards a more positive life and becoming the best version of yourself!
I support clients with anxiety, depression, workplace stress, family conflict, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem and much more. I have extensive experience supporting clients with Autism and ADHD. My clients work with me to try and explore their emotions in the present moment, helping them to process feelings and work towards healing unresolved traumas. As my client, you are the expert of your own life and journey, so my sessions will be guided by you, as you choose to share whatever may be going on for you right now. With my support, you can work towards a more positive life and becoming the best version of yourself!
0116 464 9616 View 0116 464 9616
Photo of Marina Bardosova - Marina Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Marina Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
As a BACP accredited Psychotherapist and University lecturer with over 10 years of experience, I offer a safe, professional and productive therapeutic space for my clients for CBT, EMDR, counselling and psychotherapy. I have worked within the NHS, schools, support centres for young people and women, and have experience supporting clients with various issues. Embarking on the journey of talking therapy can indeed feel daunting. Please rest assured that I am here to support you with a kind, empathetic approach. Also, with a Masters in Psychotherapy and a Ba (Hons) in teaching, I bring a dynamic and refreshing approach to therapy.
As a BACP accredited Psychotherapist and University lecturer with over 10 years of experience, I offer a safe, professional and productive therapeutic space for my clients for CBT, EMDR, counselling and psychotherapy. I have worked within the NHS, schools, support centres for young people and women, and have experience supporting clients with various issues. Embarking on the journey of talking therapy can indeed feel daunting. Please rest assured that I am here to support you with a kind, empathetic approach. Also, with a Masters in Psychotherapy and a Ba (Hons) in teaching, I bring a dynamic and refreshing approach to therapy.
01727 326468 View 01727 326468
Photo of Nicola M. Richter, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Nicola M. Richter
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Serves Area
Life might bring inner and outer challenges - I wish you that you can grow from it and find inner peace - I am happy to assist you in this. I am here for you to talk about your emotional, psychological & spiritual/transpersonal and mindfulness issues. I taught at Universities and present at international conferences. My practice is open for in person & video sessions. With 30+ years of practice I offer you a confidential space to explore your feelings and thoughts e.g. about anxiety, depression, suicide, relationships, death and dying, spiritual journey, meaning in life. I am here for you for any other issue you wish to explore.
Life might bring inner and outer challenges - I wish you that you can grow from it and find inner peace - I am happy to assist you in this. I am here for you to talk about your emotional, psychological & spiritual/transpersonal and mindfulness issues. I taught at Universities and present at international conferences. My practice is open for in person & video sessions. With 30+ years of practice I offer you a confidential space to explore your feelings and thoughts e.g. about anxiety, depression, suicide, relationships, death and dying, spiritual journey, meaning in life. I am here for you for any other issue you wish to explore.
01727 750088 View 01727 750088
Photo of Su Youngs - Hitchin & Welwyn Psychotherapy Practice, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Hitchin & Welwyn Psychotherapy Practice
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Serves Area
Hello and welcome to my profile. I am a qualified and experienced Psychotherapist and Counsellor.  I work with a range of issues such as: anxiety and depression, trauma, self-harm, addiction, relationship and family issues, stress and self-esteem, sexuality and emotional issues, issues with self image.
Hello and welcome to my profile. I am a qualified and experienced Psychotherapist and Counsellor.  I work with a range of issues such as: anxiety and depression, trauma, self-harm, addiction, relationship and family issues, stress and self-esteem, sexuality and emotional issues, issues with self image.
01462 547045 View 01462 547045
Photo of Lucy Shaw, Psychotherapist, BPC
Lucy Shaw
Psychotherapist, BPC
Serves Area
I understand it can be hard to approach therapy for the first time, or maybe you are currently in need of support during an uncertain time or are feeling distressed. It can feel difficult knowing where to start. We would work together to explore your feelings, thoughts and behaviours so you can better understand yourself and others. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy can support you and give you understanding about your emotional responses to life events and insight to help cope in times of stress. I offer a safe and confidential space, where you can begin to make sense of your feelings and to identify how you would like to move forward.
I understand it can be hard to approach therapy for the first time, or maybe you are currently in need of support during an uncertain time or are feeling distressed. It can feel difficult knowing where to start. We would work together to explore your feelings, thoughts and behaviours so you can better understand yourself and others. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy can support you and give you understanding about your emotional responses to life events and insight to help cope in times of stress. I offer a safe and confidential space, where you can begin to make sense of your feelings and to identify how you would like to move forward.
01727 222209 View 01727 222209
Photo of Daniella Penny, Counsellor, BACP
Daniella Penny
Counsellor, BACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Therapy is a space where you can come to explore the ways in which you show up in the world, figure out what is working and not working for you and find ways to move forward in a healthier, happier and more fulfilling way. Working with the notion that you are the expert of yourself, I aim to help you build awareness that can in turn give you more choice as to how you function within your life. I am a qualified psychotherapist offering a non-judgmental, empathic space where you can be fully yourself. I work with adults and welcome diversity, including all genders, sexualities, races, abilities, body sizes and religions.
Therapy is a space where you can come to explore the ways in which you show up in the world, figure out what is working and not working for you and find ways to move forward in a healthier, happier and more fulfilling way. Working with the notion that you are the expert of yourself, I aim to help you build awareness that can in turn give you more choice as to how you function within your life. I am a qualified psychotherapist offering a non-judgmental, empathic space where you can be fully yourself. I work with adults and welcome diversity, including all genders, sexualities, races, abilities, body sizes and religions.
01727 222264 View 01727 222264
Photo of Harriet Doward - Harriet Doward Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Harriet Doward Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a qualified counsellor working with adults and couples based in St Albans, Herts. I offer sessions online and in person and have experience helping with anxiety, depression, self-harm, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, anger, post-natal depression, addiction, trauma, and bereavement amongst others. For couples in crisis I can help you understand the subconscious roots of your relationship difficulties, looking at what first drew you together, where you got stuck and how to move forward.
I am a qualified counsellor working with adults and couples based in St Albans, Herts. I offer sessions online and in person and have experience helping with anxiety, depression, self-harm, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, anger, post-natal depression, addiction, trauma, and bereavement amongst others. For couples in crisis I can help you understand the subconscious roots of your relationship difficulties, looking at what first drew you together, where you got stuck and how to move forward.
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Photo of Lee Grant, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Lee Grant
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
My name is Lee Grant. I’m a BACP registered psychotherapist offering individual therapy, couples therapy, couples counselling, parenting support and online therapy in Welwyn, Hertfordshire and internationally. I work with adults, couples, parents, British expats and English-speaking professionals abroad, including clients in Dubai, the Gulf, Hong Kong and parts of Asia.
My name is Lee Grant. I’m a BACP registered psychotherapist offering individual therapy, couples therapy, couples counselling, parenting support and online therapy in Welwyn, Hertfordshire and internationally. I work with adults, couples, parents, British expats and English-speaking professionals abroad, including clients in Dubai, the Gulf, Hong Kong and parts of Asia.
01438 903193 View 01438 903193
Photo of Tanya Curry, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Tanya Curry
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Serves Area
I have experience working with trauma in a charity, specialising in supporting people who have experienced domestic abuse.
Are you struggling with anxiety, trauma, or feeling constantly on edge? I offer a calm, supportive space to help you make sense of anxiety and feel more grounded. Anxiety is often linked to past trauma, even when not obvious, leaving you overwhelmed, in survival mode, or stuck in patterns that feel hard to change. It can affect self-esteem, increase self-doubt, and lead to sadness or unhelpful coping strategies. These are understandable responses, not personal failings. Together we gently explore what you’re experiencing at your pace, helping you understand the impact of past experiences and move toward feeling more grounded and
I have experience working with trauma in a charity, specialising in supporting people who have experienced domestic abuse.
Are you struggling with anxiety, trauma, or feeling constantly on edge? I offer a calm, supportive space to help you make sense of anxiety and feel more grounded. Anxiety is often linked to past trauma, even when not obvious, leaving you overwhelmed, in survival mode, or stuck in patterns that feel hard to change. It can affect self-esteem, increase self-doubt, and lead to sadness or unhelpful coping strategies. These are understandable responses, not personal failings. Together we gently explore what you’re experiencing at your pace, helping you understand the impact of past experiences and move toward feeling more grounded and
01438 904224 View 01438 904224
Photo of Sue Adams, Counsellor, MBACP
Sue Adams
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Taking the step to ask for help is often the hardest thing we do. I think as adults we feel as if we "should be able to cope" or "others have it harder" and that in some way needing help or someone to talk to in difficult times is showing a weakness. We invest time and money in keeping our bodies in shape and while that is the vehicle that gets us through our life we need to care for our other parts too. Our emotions and our relationships constantly need recognition and yet we only seek help when we reach a crisis point. So whether you are at a crisis point or struggling with anxiety, depression or a bereavement I am here to help.
Taking the step to ask for help is often the hardest thing we do. I think as adults we feel as if we "should be able to cope" or "others have it harder" and that in some way needing help or someone to talk to in difficult times is showing a weakness. We invest time and money in keeping our bodies in shape and while that is the vehicle that gets us through our life we need to care for our other parts too. Our emotions and our relationships constantly need recognition and yet we only seek help when we reach a crisis point. So whether you are at a crisis point or struggling with anxiety, depression or a bereavement I am here to help.
01727 733176 View 01727 733176
Photo of Vicky Corfield, Counsellor, MBACP
Vicky Corfield
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Whether you're facing something painful, feeling stuck, or simply looking for someone to talk things through with, I offer a space where you can explore what is going on for you—with compassion and support. I'm a BACP-registered counsellor with experience supporting people through a wide range of issues. My approach is psychodynamic, which can help bring awareness to the emotional processes that shape how you feel. This may include exploring past experiences and how they continue to influence your emotions and relationships. I work in a way that’s responsive to your individual needs, focusing on what feels most helpful to you.
Whether you're facing something painful, feeling stuck, or simply looking for someone to talk things through with, I offer a space where you can explore what is going on for you—with compassion and support. I'm a BACP-registered counsellor with experience supporting people through a wide range of issues. My approach is psychodynamic, which can help bring awareness to the emotional processes that shape how you feel. This may include exploring past experiences and how they continue to influence your emotions and relationships. I work in a way that’s responsive to your individual needs, focusing on what feels most helpful to you.
01582 377851 View 01582 377851
Domestic Abuse Counsellors
What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?
Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

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

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

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