Psychodynamic Counselling in Ilminster

Photo of Trudi Bean, Counsellor, MBACP
Trudi Bean
Counsellor, MBACP
Ilminster TA19
A big part of my work is with adults who have suffered adverse childhood experiences or childhood emotional neglect. If this is you and you feel that you are struggling to cope because you are still carrying around the childhood adaptations you used to protect yourself, traits such as people pleasing, being afraid to try, afraid to use your voice, perfectionism traits, not being able to take criticism to name but a few. I have seen people turn their lives around when they have addressed these issues so if this speaks to you please contact me for a consultation. Don't let your past ruin your future it doesn't have to be this way.
A big part of my work is with adults who have suffered adverse childhood experiences or childhood emotional neglect. If this is you and you feel that you are struggling to cope because you are still carrying around the childhood adaptations you used to protect yourself, traits such as people pleasing, being afraid to try, afraid to use your voice, perfectionism traits, not being able to take criticism to name but a few. I have seen people turn their lives around when they have addressed these issues so if this speaks to you please contact me for a consultation. Don't let your past ruin your future it doesn't have to be this way.
07598 771977 View 07598 771977
Photo of Jessica Davies, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Jessica Davies
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Serves Area
I work particularly with anxiety, depression, trauma and loss; loss of belonging and cultural identity as well as loss through bereavement including childhood bereavement. Influenced by the work of Carl Jung and by the writings of Annie Dillard, John O'Donohue and Richard Rohr among others, I make room for the soulful and the creative in my work. A qualified psychotherapist and psychotherapeutic counsellor, I am a member of UK Counsellors and Psychotherapists (UKCP) and registered with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I have Diplomas in Integrative Transpersonal Psychotherapy and Counselling.
I work particularly with anxiety, depression, trauma and loss; loss of belonging and cultural identity as well as loss through bereavement including childhood bereavement. Influenced by the work of Carl Jung and by the writings of Annie Dillard, John O'Donohue and Richard Rohr among others, I make room for the soulful and the creative in my work. A qualified psychotherapist and psychotherapeutic counsellor, I am a member of UK Counsellors and Psychotherapists (UKCP) and registered with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I have Diplomas in Integrative Transpersonal Psychotherapy and Counselling.
020 3962 2287 View 020 3962 2287
Photo of Tanja Baker - Tanja Baker Counselling, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Tanja Baker Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
People come from all walks of life to me. This could be because they are experiencing difficult emotions such as anxiety, panic, family issues, relationship issues, depression, grief or sadness. Perhaps you have been diagnosed with ADHA or Autism later in life, this can have a big impact on your life, you might want to explore this further. I have extensive experience with neurodiversity in my personal and professional life. It may be that you have a problem you would like to explore further. I may be able to help you make sense of it all.
People come from all walks of life to me. This could be because they are experiencing difficult emotions such as anxiety, panic, family issues, relationship issues, depression, grief or sadness. Perhaps you have been diagnosed with ADHA or Autism later in life, this can have a big impact on your life, you might want to explore this further. I have extensive experience with neurodiversity in my personal and professional life. It may be that you have a problem you would like to explore further. I may be able to help you make sense of it all.
01935 312729 View 01935 312729
Photo of Anna Louise McGuire, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Anna Louise McGuire
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
Warmly welcoming new enquiries - I promise a response within 24 hours. Hello, I'm Anna, a registered counsellor and member of the BACP. My focus in therapy is to provide a lifelong set of tools that supports emotional balance, self-understanding and helps you separate safe and toxic relationships. In therapy, I encourage a more compassionate inner narrative, using my mantra "Recognise the Inner Critic and balance this with the Inner Therapist", this allows my clients to have more self-acceptance, resilience and a healthy communication style. If you're looking for a compassionate therapist, I’m here to help.
Warmly welcoming new enquiries - I promise a response within 24 hours. Hello, I'm Anna, a registered counsellor and member of the BACP. My focus in therapy is to provide a lifelong set of tools that supports emotional balance, self-understanding and helps you separate safe and toxic relationships. In therapy, I encourage a more compassionate inner narrative, using my mantra "Recognise the Inner Critic and balance this with the Inner Therapist", this allows my clients to have more self-acceptance, resilience and a healthy communication style. If you're looking for a compassionate therapist, I’m here to help.
01460 207142 View 01460 207142
Photo of Michaela Jane Slade - The Heard Therapy, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
The Heard Therapy
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
I am a counsellor and supervisor who focuses on the value of the therapeutic relationship and how trust and safety can support you and help you to validate and understand your experience without judgement. I work as a room based and equine/nature assisted somatic trauma therapist, yoga teacher and Reiki practitioner. I have trained with Equusoma which brings elements of somatic experiencing into the experience of equine connection, I am also training in Somatic Experiencing. The work I do helps to integrate and process the experience of the mind and the body.
I am a counsellor and supervisor who focuses on the value of the therapeutic relationship and how trust and safety can support you and help you to validate and understand your experience without judgement. I work as a room based and equine/nature assisted somatic trauma therapist, yoga teacher and Reiki practitioner. I have trained with Equusoma which brings elements of somatic experiencing into the experience of equine connection, I am also training in Somatic Experiencing. The work I do helps to integrate and process the experience of the mind and the body.
01823 218159 View 01823 218159

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kelly Mcgurk, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Kelly Mcgurk
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Topsham EX3
I support people navigating change, uncertainty, and emotional difficulty. Many experience anxiety, depression, grief, or a sense of overwhelm that makes life feel heavier than usual. Some want clarity, others simply want to feel better. I offer a safe, non judgemental space to explore what they’re going through, understand their feelings, and develop tools to cope, heal, and move forward with more confidence and hope.
I support people navigating change, uncertainty, and emotional difficulty. Many experience anxiety, depression, grief, or a sense of overwhelm that makes life feel heavier than usual. Some want clarity, others simply want to feel better. I offer a safe, non judgemental space to explore what they’re going through, understand their feelings, and develop tools to cope, heal, and move forward with more confidence and hope.
01392 321803 View 01392 321803
Photo of Victoria Edwards, Counsellor, MBACP
Victoria Edwards
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Taunton TA1
I am an accredited integrative counsellor but work with a psychodynamic approach.
During our lives many of us can experience loneliness, despair, abandonment and many things that can affect our happiness. I provide a safe space where you can heal and grow without fear of judgment. Whether you need to revisit painful past experiences, traumas. or work in the present with anxiety or grief, I can help. I am an accredited therapist with many years experience and have worked with many clients covering a range of topics and issues.
I am an accredited integrative counsellor but work with a psychodynamic approach.
During our lives many of us can experience loneliness, despair, abandonment and many things that can affect our happiness. I provide a safe space where you can heal and grow without fear of judgment. Whether you need to revisit painful past experiences, traumas. or work in the present with anxiety or grief, I can help. I am an accredited therapist with many years experience and have worked with many clients covering a range of topics and issues.
01823 212274 View 01823 212274
Photo of Gemma Spence, Psychotherapist, MRes, UKCP Trainee
Gemma Spence
Psychotherapist, MRes, UKCP Trainee
Hello and welcome. People often come to therapy when life feels overwhelming, when change is happening, or when familiar patterns keep pulling them into places of difficulty. Sometimes emotions feel too much to hold alone, or we sense that something within us is wanting to be heard. Beginning therapy can feel like a big step, but with the right support it can become a gentle and nourishing process. I’m a senior trainee in Core Process Psychotherapy and offer a safe, non-judgemental space to explore your experience with present-moment awareness and a gentle attention to what is happening in your body.
Hello and welcome. People often come to therapy when life feels overwhelming, when change is happening, or when familiar patterns keep pulling them into places of difficulty. Sometimes emotions feel too much to hold alone, or we sense that something within us is wanting to be heard. Beginning therapy can feel like a big step, but with the right support it can become a gentle and nourishing process. I’m a senior trainee in Core Process Psychotherapy and offer a safe, non-judgemental space to explore your experience with present-moment awareness and a gentle attention to what is happening in your body.
01458 552349 View 01458 552349
Photo of Diane Hassall, Psychotherapist, COSRT Accred
Diane Hassall
Psychotherapist, COSRT Accred
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I will support and empower you to be more fulfilled, have happier and healthier relationships, and the pleasure you desire – whatever that looks like for you. As a Relationship Therapist I’ll help you break damaging patterns, rebuild trust and reconnect — whether that’s communicating more positively, navigating conflict, rekindling intimacy, or exploring non-monogamy. If sex is a struggle, a source of shame, or perhaps missing from your life, I’ll offer you a safe space to talk openly about what many find hard to talk about. Whether it’s painful sex, lack of desire, performance worries, exploring kink, or discovering your desires.
I will support and empower you to be more fulfilled, have happier and healthier relationships, and the pleasure you desire – whatever that looks like for you. As a Relationship Therapist I’ll help you break damaging patterns, rebuild trust and reconnect — whether that’s communicating more positively, navigating conflict, rekindling intimacy, or exploring non-monogamy. If sex is a struggle, a source of shame, or perhaps missing from your life, I’ll offer you a safe space to talk openly about what many find hard to talk about. Whether it’s painful sex, lack of desire, performance worries, exploring kink, or discovering your desires.
01305 235821 View 01305 235821
Photo of Tan Murray-Clark, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Tan Murray-Clark
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
Hello. We all need someone to talk to when life is difficult. Counselling can help you understand more about who you are, to make better sense of past or current events, your feelings and how you relate. I seek to provide a heartfelt, safe and accompanied exploration of any issues you bring. I will seek to create a trusting alliance with you and provide a place you can find and be yourself. The therapy I practice -Core Process- works with feelings, emotions, thoughts and the felt senses towards supporting you to move through any fears and anxieties and generate a greater sense of health and wellbeing into your everyday life.
Hello. We all need someone to talk to when life is difficult. Counselling can help you understand more about who you are, to make better sense of past or current events, your feelings and how you relate. I seek to provide a heartfelt, safe and accompanied exploration of any issues you bring. I will seek to create a trusting alliance with you and provide a place you can find and be yourself. The therapy I practice -Core Process- works with feelings, emotions, thoughts and the felt senses towards supporting you to move through any fears and anxieties and generate a greater sense of health and wellbeing into your everyday life.
01364 701874 View 01364 701874
Photo of Bundle MacLaren - Bundle MacLaren Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Bundle MacLaren Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Serves Area
I believe everyone can benefit from psychotherapy and that talking to a professional is the best first step to take if you're struggling. As a fully qualified and UKCP registered psychotherapist with over 2,000 hours of clinical experience, I can support you to make sense of your concerns, feelings and behaviours. Starting therapy can feel like a big step so please get in touch for a free consultation where we can talk things through and ensure you get the right support you need. If I don't think I'm the right person for you then I'll signpost you to someone I think is more suitable.
I believe everyone can benefit from psychotherapy and that talking to a professional is the best first step to take if you're struggling. As a fully qualified and UKCP registered psychotherapist with over 2,000 hours of clinical experience, I can support you to make sense of your concerns, feelings and behaviours. Starting therapy can feel like a big step so please get in touch for a free consultation where we can talk things through and ensure you get the right support you need. If I don't think I'm the right person for you then I'll signpost you to someone I think is more suitable.
01803 308950 View 01803 308950
Photo of Louise Styles, Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Louise Styles
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Serves Area
My approach combines cognitive, behavioural, and psychodynamic methods, supporting individualised goals and fostering holistic healing and personal growth.
Clients come to me when they are experiencing distress in their relationships, with their sex lives or within themselves. Whether they are seeking help in processing a string of messy break-ups, exploring alternative relationship such as polyamory or intimacy styles such as kink and BDSM, dealing with cheating, shame, guilt or regret, or suffering from low self-esteem and feeling stuck. I listen, reflect, and support my clients with identifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviour patterns. Nothing is taboo or too shocking to bring to me. Also experienced in delivering workshops and seminars to groups, media and educational settings.
My approach combines cognitive, behavioural, and psychodynamic methods, supporting individualised goals and fostering holistic healing and personal growth.
Clients come to me when they are experiencing distress in their relationships, with their sex lives or within themselves. Whether they are seeking help in processing a string of messy break-ups, exploring alternative relationship such as polyamory or intimacy styles such as kink and BDSM, dealing with cheating, shame, guilt or regret, or suffering from low self-esteem and feeling stuck. I listen, reflect, and support my clients with identifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviour patterns. Nothing is taboo or too shocking to bring to me. Also experienced in delivering workshops and seminars to groups, media and educational settings.
01489 357115 View 01489 357115
Photo of Joanne King Ma Ba, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Joanne King Ma Ba
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
What is art therapy? Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media as its primary mode of expression and communication. Within this context, art is not used as diagnostic tool but as a medium to address emotional issues which may be confusing and distressing. Art therapists work with children, young people, adults and the elderly. Clients may have a wide range of difficulties, disabilities or diagnoses. These include emotional, behavioural or mental health problems, learning or physical disabilities, life-limiting conditions, neurological conditions and physical illnesses. Art therapy is provided in groups or individual
What is art therapy? Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media as its primary mode of expression and communication. Within this context, art is not used as diagnostic tool but as a medium to address emotional issues which may be confusing and distressing. Art therapists work with children, young people, adults and the elderly. Clients may have a wide range of difficulties, disabilities or diagnoses. These include emotional, behavioural or mental health problems, learning or physical disabilities, life-limiting conditions, neurological conditions and physical illnesses. Art therapy is provided in groups or individual
01275 402827 View 01275 402827
Photo of Sarah Churchill, Counsellor, MBACP
Sarah Churchill
Counsellor, MBACP
I'm an integrative counsellor offering therapy indoors, online, and outdoors in nature. I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches to help you make sense of your experiences, connect with your inner resources, and find a way forward that feels authentic and meaningful. At the heart of my work is the therapeutic relationship — a safe space where you can feel seen, supported, and free to explore whatever is arising for you. I have a particular interest in the body-mind connection, bringing a holistic approach to everything we explore together. I offer a warm, collaborative presence, meeting you with openness, curiosity, and respect.
I'm an integrative counsellor offering therapy indoors, online, and outdoors in nature. I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches to help you make sense of your experiences, connect with your inner resources, and find a way forward that feels authentic and meaningful. At the heart of my work is the therapeutic relationship — a safe space where you can feel seen, supported, and free to explore whatever is arising for you. I have a particular interest in the body-mind connection, bringing a holistic approach to everything we explore together. I offer a warm, collaborative presence, meeting you with openness, curiosity, and respect.
01297 300962 View 01297 300962
Photo of M. Baring, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
M. Baring
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
I am known as both Miranda and Millie - you are welcome to call me by either name. My work is rooted in deep respect for each person’s innate wisdom and capacity for change under the right conditions. I offer a calm, steady environment where clients feel safe enough to explore the parts of themselves they may have hidden, silenced, or left misunderstood. Rather than “fixing,” I walk alongside — helping untangle patterns, soften self-judgment, and build emotional resilience. Through curiosity, honesty and compassion, I support clients in reconnecting with their own clarity, strength, and sense of possibility.
I am known as both Miranda and Millie - you are welcome to call me by either name. My work is rooted in deep respect for each person’s innate wisdom and capacity for change under the right conditions. I offer a calm, steady environment where clients feel safe enough to explore the parts of themselves they may have hidden, silenced, or left misunderstood. Rather than “fixing,” I walk alongside — helping untangle patterns, soften self-judgment, and build emotional resilience. Through curiosity, honesty and compassion, I support clients in reconnecting with their own clarity, strength, and sense of possibility.
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Photo of Chantal Shears, Counsellor, MBACP
Chantal Shears
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
You may not feel like yourself and you just don't know why. You want to feel more like you but the trying you have done so far has got you no where. There are lots of reasons why you may be considering therapy and I want to let you know that all of your reasons are valid because they are important to you. Therapy can help you to process your thoughts instead of keeping them tucked away in your head. Having someone to talk to that isn’t a friend or a family member can feel releasing and safe. Overtime you may notice changes in your body too, that ache in your chest may start to be less prominent and overtime disappear.
You may not feel like yourself and you just don't know why. You want to feel more like you but the trying you have done so far has got you no where. There are lots of reasons why you may be considering therapy and I want to let you know that all of your reasons are valid because they are important to you. Therapy can help you to process your thoughts instead of keeping them tucked away in your head. Having someone to talk to that isn’t a friend or a family member can feel releasing and safe. Overtime you may notice changes in your body too, that ache in your chest may start to be less prominent and overtime disappear.
01726 213407 View 01726 213407
Photo of Laura Horsley, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Laura Horsley
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Crewkerne TA18
I believe every person’s experience is valid and deserving of care. You might come to counselling feeling stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of why things feel heavy, or you may arrive wanting to gently explore past experiences, trauma, or long-held patterns that no longer serve you. You may have clear reasons for seeking support, or you may simply know that something doesn’t feel right and want a space to explore that without pressure or judgment. My role is to offer a safe, compassionate, and accepting space that adapts to what you need, where you are met as you are, at your own pace.
I believe every person’s experience is valid and deserving of care. You might come to counselling feeling stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of why things feel heavy, or you may arrive wanting to gently explore past experiences, trauma, or long-held patterns that no longer serve you. You may have clear reasons for seeking support, or you may simply know that something doesn’t feel right and want a space to explore that without pressure or judgment. My role is to offer a safe, compassionate, and accepting space that adapts to what you need, where you are met as you are, at your own pace.
01935 312578 View 01935 312578
Photo of Eve Houston, Counsellor, MA, BACP
Eve Houston
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Serves Area
Using a person-centred, integrative, trauma-informed approach, I draw on humanistic, psychodynamic, and CBT frameworks to support safety, self-trust, empowerment, and personal growth.
Are you at your limit? Women experiencing burn-out often approach me when they have put everyone else first. If you’ve experienced domestic abuse, trauma, or life challenges, or simply feel stuck and want to grow, you're in the right place. I offer a safe, compassionate, trauma-informed space where your experiences are respected. Together, we work at your pace using talking therapy to explore feelings, manage overwhelm, rebuild self-trust, and reconnect with your strengths. My aim is to help you embrace your resilience, set healthy boundaries, and take positive steps toward discovering your best self and fulfilling your potential.
Using a person-centred, integrative, trauma-informed approach, I draw on humanistic, psychodynamic, and CBT frameworks to support safety, self-trust, empowerment, and personal growth.
Are you at your limit? Women experiencing burn-out often approach me when they have put everyone else first. If you’ve experienced domestic abuse, trauma, or life challenges, or simply feel stuck and want to grow, you're in the right place. I offer a safe, compassionate, trauma-informed space where your experiences are respected. Together, we work at your pace using talking therapy to explore feelings, manage overwhelm, rebuild self-trust, and reconnect with your strengths. My aim is to help you embrace your resilience, set healthy boundaries, and take positive steps toward discovering your best self and fulfilling your potential.
01202 144026 View 01202 144026
Photo of Adam Smith, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Adam Smith
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Serves Area
My own journey to becoming a therapist began with the need to make sense of my own situations and self. The beliefs I had about myself and the world as I saw it, and the beliefs I had about how the world saw me. I bring lived experience of managing mental challenges and addictions. I understand that our unique life experiences shape how we think, feel, and relate to the world and one another. Amazing things unfold when humans, together, face the problems of living with openness and kindness and without pressure to perform. This is the essence of therapy.
My own journey to becoming a therapist began with the need to make sense of my own situations and self. The beliefs I had about myself and the world as I saw it, and the beliefs I had about how the world saw me. I bring lived experience of managing mental challenges and addictions. I understand that our unique life experiences shape how we think, feel, and relate to the world and one another. Amazing things unfold when humans, together, face the problems of living with openness and kindness and without pressure to perform. This is the essence of therapy.
01736 808738 View 01736 808738
Photo of Rebecca Harp, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Rebecca Harp
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Serves Area
Since qualifying in 2016, I have specialised in supporting the LGBTQ+ community & women. Issues I have particular experience working with include anxiety, depression, stress & burnout, trauma, loss & bereavement, major life transitions, loss of identity, low self-esteem & low self-confidence, perfectionism, existential & spiritual exploration, expanded states of consciousness, relationship & family dynamics, navigating the menstrual cycle & coping with menstrual conditions, such as PMS & PMDD. I also have specialist experience of working with the LGBTQ+ community & issues such as gender dysphoria & internalised homophobia.
Since qualifying in 2016, I have specialised in supporting the LGBTQ+ community & women. Issues I have particular experience working with include anxiety, depression, stress & burnout, trauma, loss & bereavement, major life transitions, loss of identity, low self-esteem & low self-confidence, perfectionism, existential & spiritual exploration, expanded states of consciousness, relationship & family dynamics, navigating the menstrual cycle & coping with menstrual conditions, such as PMS & PMDD. I also have specialist experience of working with the LGBTQ+ community & issues such as gender dysphoria & internalised homophobia.
01392 321849 View 01392 321849
Psychodynamic Counsellors
Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?
Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?
Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.