Chronic Pain Counselling in Ottery Saint Mary

Photo of Tash Thomas-Still, Counsellor, MBACP
Tash Thomas-Still
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Perhaps you’re a survivor of abuse or violence, living with chronic illness, or struggling with relationships and self-worth.
I offer an integrative, trauma-informed approach tailored to your needs. Drawing on Person-Centred counselling, IFS, TA, somatic awareness, and creative methods, I provide a collaborative space to explore challenges, uncover strengths, nurture growth, and build insight. My practice is grounded in empathy, curiosity, and respect for your pace.
Perhaps you’re a survivor of abuse or violence, living with chronic illness, or struggling with relationships and self-worth.
I offer an integrative, trauma-informed approach tailored to your needs. Drawing on Person-Centred counselling, IFS, TA, somatic awareness, and creative methods, I provide a collaborative space to explore challenges, uncover strengths, nurture growth, and build insight. My practice is grounded in empathy, curiosity, and respect for your pace.
01392 542868 View 01392 542868
Photo of Linda Macaulay, Counsellor, MBACP
Linda Macaulay
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
As a very experienced Counsellor (qualified 1998) and Physical Therapist (Pilates Instructor qualified 1984) I have an innate interest in and deep respect for people. My mission has been to support and work with my clients in assisting them in achieving their healing and wellness. Often it helps to be listened to and it is important to understand why things are the way they are. Perhaps you feel "stuck"and are at a loss to know how to deal with a difficult situation - or it may be that you are having difficulties in relationships with other people.
As a very experienced Counsellor (qualified 1998) and Physical Therapist (Pilates Instructor qualified 1984) I have an innate interest in and deep respect for people. My mission has been to support and work with my clients in assisting them in achieving their healing and wellness. Often it helps to be listened to and it is important to understand why things are the way they are. Perhaps you feel "stuck"and are at a loss to know how to deal with a difficult situation - or it may be that you are having difficulties in relationships with other people.
07445 343049 View 07445 343049

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jacob Mornington, Counsellor, MBACP
Jacob Mornington
Counsellor, MBACP
Trauma is the invisible force that shapes our lives." I guide people through the complex emotional and physical effects of traumatic experiences and stress.  I integrate my professional training and personal insights into a therapeutic approach which is led by an intention to: - understand the unique and complex experiences of your life - support you in your goals and with the challenges you face - be alongside you in your journey   My approach is informed by the latest developments and approaches including Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Informed Therapy, Schema Therapy & Transforming Touch.
Trauma is the invisible force that shapes our lives." I guide people through the complex emotional and physical effects of traumatic experiences and stress.  I integrate my professional training and personal insights into a therapeutic approach which is led by an intention to: - understand the unique and complex experiences of your life - support you in your goals and with the challenges you face - be alongside you in your journey   My approach is informed by the latest developments and approaches including Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Informed Therapy, Schema Therapy & Transforming Touch.
01803 222474 View 01803 222474
Photo of Francoise Elvin, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Francoise Elvin
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
I’m a person-centred, trauma-informed and mindfulness based therapist, bringing decades of experience in self enquiry to help us connect at depth and work effectively together. Newly trained in IFS, which looks at different parts of self, and the roles they play; we always include awareness of the body and nervous system in our work together. I also use AEDP, helping us undo aloneness by deliberately paying attention to the felt sense in the body. ...Whether you are struggling with conflicting emotions, feeling overwhelmed and under-resourced, or simply in need of an Ally who can witness the full-spectrum YOU, I’m here to help.
I’m a person-centred, trauma-informed and mindfulness based therapist, bringing decades of experience in self enquiry to help us connect at depth and work effectively together. Newly trained in IFS, which looks at different parts of self, and the roles they play; we always include awareness of the body and nervous system in our work together. I also use AEDP, helping us undo aloneness by deliberately paying attention to the felt sense in the body. ...Whether you are struggling with conflicting emotions, feeling overwhelmed and under-resourced, or simply in need of an Ally who can witness the full-spectrum YOU, I’m here to help.
01364 700892 View 01364 700892
Photo of Rosie Freedman - Psychological Therapy in Practice - Dr Rosie, Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
Psychological Therapy in Practice - Dr Rosie
Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes life can really get us down and it might seem difficult to see a way through. This could be due to: Feeling low, hopeless, lonely, or depressed * Feeling anxious or afraid * Suffering with stress at home and/or in the workplace * Suffering with a long term physical/ mental health condition * Experiencing relationship problems * Loss of a loved one through break-up, divorce, or death * Traumatic events in our past which are still troubling us and preventing us from moving forward * Wanting to change a behaviour (diet, exercise, smoking etc). I can help you to cope with, manage, and improve the issues you face.
Sometimes life can really get us down and it might seem difficult to see a way through. This could be due to: Feeling low, hopeless, lonely, or depressed * Feeling anxious or afraid * Suffering with stress at home and/or in the workplace * Suffering with a long term physical/ mental health condition * Experiencing relationship problems * Loss of a loved one through break-up, divorce, or death * Traumatic events in our past which are still troubling us and preventing us from moving forward * Wanting to change a behaviour (diet, exercise, smoking etc). I can help you to cope with, manage, and improve the issues you face.
07723 560186 View 07723 560186
Photo of Stephen Leighton, Psychotherapist, MA, BPC
Stephen Leighton
Psychotherapist, MA, BPC
Taunton TA1
I am a psychodynamic psychotherapist with a private practice in Bristol and Taunton. I work with individuals from all walks of life seeking help with many different problems, for example with depression and anxiety, panic states, phobias, obsessional behaviour or angry outbursts. People who turn to psychotherapy may also feel worried in more general ways such as feeling aimless or dissatisfied in their work life, or feeling unable to make satisfactory personal or sexual relationships. With empathy and careful listening my aim is always to help you feel better about yourself and your life, in work or in love.
I am a psychodynamic psychotherapist with a private practice in Bristol and Taunton. I work with individuals from all walks of life seeking help with many different problems, for example with depression and anxiety, panic states, phobias, obsessional behaviour or angry outbursts. People who turn to psychotherapy may also feel worried in more general ways such as feeling aimless or dissatisfied in their work life, or feeling unable to make satisfactory personal or sexual relationships. With empathy and careful listening my aim is always to help you feel better about yourself and your life, in work or in love.
01454 802664 View 01454 802664
Photo of Annamarie Teevan, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Annamarie Teevan
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you often feel out of step with the world, exhausted by trying to fit in or keep up? You may be autistic or have ADHD, formally diagnosed or self-recognised, and perhaps are only beginning to understand how your neurodivergence has shaped your life experience. You might also be navigating patterns that no longer serve you such as overworking, relying on substances, or constantly pushing yourself - coping strategies that may have once helped you get by but now leave you feeling depleted, stuck, or disconnected from yourself.
Do you often feel out of step with the world, exhausted by trying to fit in or keep up? You may be autistic or have ADHD, formally diagnosed or self-recognised, and perhaps are only beginning to understand how your neurodivergence has shaped your life experience. You might also be navigating patterns that no longer serve you such as overworking, relying on substances, or constantly pushing yourself - coping strategies that may have once helped you get by but now leave you feeling depleted, stuck, or disconnected from yourself.
020 4572 1847 View 020 4572 1847
Photo of Morag Lepage O’Neil, Counsellor, MBACP
Morag Lepage O’Neil
Counsellor, MBACP
Hi I’m Morag. I’m an Integrative Counsellor offering in person and online sessions to clients. I am trained to use a combination of approaches to best suit individual client needs. I am deeply existential and place great importance on building relationships with my clients as I believe that is essential for successful therapeutic outcomes, whatever difficulties they may be facing and be seeking help with.
Hi I’m Morag. I’m an Integrative Counsellor offering in person and online sessions to clients. I am trained to use a combination of approaches to best suit individual client needs. I am deeply existential and place great importance on building relationships with my clients as I believe that is essential for successful therapeutic outcomes, whatever difficulties they may be facing and be seeking help with.
01823 213903 View 01823 213903
Photo of Lenna Lanza - Lenna Lanza CBT, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Lenna Lanza CBT
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Is Anxiety, Trauma, OCD, low mood, or low self esteem a problem, 2026 could be your year for meaningful change. I am Lenna, an Accredited Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT), Mental Health Nurse, CBT supervisor, & Mindful Based Cognitive Therapy teacher. I work online with clients nation wide & in Europe. I create a supportive, comfortable, safe, confidential, therapeutic space to help you explore & understand your challenges. We will work together to successfully achieve your health and wellbeing goals. CBT will help you to develop skills & tools that are tailored to you & your lifestyle for you use in the years to come.
Is Anxiety, Trauma, OCD, low mood, or low self esteem a problem, 2026 could be your year for meaningful change. I am Lenna, an Accredited Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT), Mental Health Nurse, CBT supervisor, & Mindful Based Cognitive Therapy teacher. I work online with clients nation wide & in Europe. I create a supportive, comfortable, safe, confidential, therapeutic space to help you explore & understand your challenges. We will work together to successfully achieve your health and wellbeing goals. CBT will help you to develop skills & tools that are tailored to you & your lifestyle for you use in the years to come.
01782 890227 View 01782 890227
Photo of Annie Ford, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Annie Ford
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Exeter EX5
It takes courage to reach out for counselling, especially when life feels stuck or overwhelming. You may be looking for clarity in relationships or direction through difficult times. I offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space where you can explore the changes you want to make and rebuild resilience. I work with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement, low self-esteem, bullying, and challenging health situations. As an experienced Counsellor and EMDR Therapist, I offer both short- and long-term therapy on Mondays and Fridays (9 am–7 pm) and Saturday mornings, available online or face to face.
It takes courage to reach out for counselling, especially when life feels stuck or overwhelming. You may be looking for clarity in relationships or direction through difficult times. I offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space where you can explore the changes you want to make and rebuild resilience. I work with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement, low self-esteem, bullying, and challenging health situations. As an experienced Counsellor and EMDR Therapist, I offer both short- and long-term therapy on Mondays and Fridays (9 am–7 pm) and Saturday mornings, available online or face to face.
07584 336873 View 07584 336873
Photo of Holly Ryan - Holly Ryan Counselling and Couples Counselling, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Holly Ryan Counselling and Couples Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Hi, my name's Holly, I am both a couples counsellor and individual counsellor. I’m a genuine, happy, and non-judgemental therapist, and my aim is to support you whether you’re facing personal challenges or working to strengthen your relationship. If you choose me as your therapist, we can explore what feels most helpful for you, drawing on my wealth of experience of approaches such as Person-Centred Therapy, Gestalt, CBT and psychoeducation, until hopefully, you become a happier version of yourself. Free 30 minute chats available with no-obligation :)
Hi, my name's Holly, I am both a couples counsellor and individual counsellor. I’m a genuine, happy, and non-judgemental therapist, and my aim is to support you whether you’re facing personal challenges or working to strengthen your relationship. If you choose me as your therapist, we can explore what feels most helpful for you, drawing on my wealth of experience of approaches such as Person-Centred Therapy, Gestalt, CBT and psychoeducation, until hopefully, you become a happier version of yourself. Free 30 minute chats available with no-obligation :)
01752 741421 View 01752 741421
Photo of Joanne Lee Hart, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Joanne Lee Hart
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Serves Area
I can also support those with chronic health conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Peri-Menopause, Cancer, Chronic Pain, Fibromyalgia etc...
As a CBT therapist, I can support you in overcoming mental health and emotional challenges by helping you identify and reframe negative thought patterns and behaviours that are keeping you stuck. Together, we'll develop practical coping strategies tailored to your unique circumstances and goals that you can take away and be yours forever. By setting realistic objectives, we can create a clear path toward your desired outcomes, whether that’s reducing anxiety, improving self-esteem and mood, or managing stress. I am afraid I only accept referrals from individuals over the age of 17 years.
I can also support those with chronic health conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Peri-Menopause, Cancer, Chronic Pain, Fibromyalgia etc...
As a CBT therapist, I can support you in overcoming mental health and emotional challenges by helping you identify and reframe negative thought patterns and behaviours that are keeping you stuck. Together, we'll develop practical coping strategies tailored to your unique circumstances and goals that you can take away and be yours forever. By setting realistic objectives, we can create a clear path toward your desired outcomes, whether that’s reducing anxiety, improving self-esteem and mood, or managing stress. I am afraid I only accept referrals from individuals over the age of 17 years.
01935 312549 View 01935 312549
Photo of Karen Tite, Psychotherapist
Karen Tite
Psychotherapist
Online Only
If you seem to cope on the outside but feel anxious, low or overwhelmed inside, I see you. You may be navigating a life transition, living with constant worry, struggling with sleep, or carrying trauma that still feels close to the surface. You’re tired of overthinking, self-doubt and feeling on edge. You want calm, confidence and to feel safe in yourself again. I offer a compassionate space, practical tools and lasting support so you can move forward with clarity, strength and hope.
If you seem to cope on the outside but feel anxious, low or overwhelmed inside, I see you. You may be navigating a life transition, living with constant worry, struggling with sleep, or carrying trauma that still feels close to the surface. You’re tired of overthinking, self-doubt and feeling on edge. You want calm, confidence and to feel safe in yourself again. I offer a compassionate space, practical tools and lasting support so you can move forward with clarity, strength and hope.
01364 700267 View 01364 700267
Photo of Rosie King, Counsellor, MBACP
Rosie King
Counsellor, MBACP
Hi, I’m Rosie. I'm an Integrative Therapist (MBACP) and trauma-informed outdoor practitioner, supporting people in finding clarity through life’s complexities. My practice has been shaped over several years of supporting adults who have lived through acute and chronic trauma, through both 1:1 therapy and outdoor trauma-recovery programmes. Whether or not you identify your experiences as trauma, I believe a trauma-informed approach benefits everyone. I work with adults who are navigating the impacts of challenging life events, emotional overwhelm, change and identity shifts. Whatever brings you here, you are welcome.
Hi, I’m Rosie. I'm an Integrative Therapist (MBACP) and trauma-informed outdoor practitioner, supporting people in finding clarity through life’s complexities. My practice has been shaped over several years of supporting adults who have lived through acute and chronic trauma, through both 1:1 therapy and outdoor trauma-recovery programmes. Whether or not you identify your experiences as trauma, I believe a trauma-informed approach benefits everyone. I work with adults who are navigating the impacts of challenging life events, emotional overwhelm, change and identity shifts. Whatever brings you here, you are welcome.
01404 511427 View 01404 511427
Photo of Robyn Dale, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Robyn Dale
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
As a warm and approachable BACP Accredited Integrative Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor based in Paignton, I offer a safe, supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Together, we’ll work to understand any patterns that may be affecting you and find ways to create positive change. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to your well-being, helping to build a trusting relationship that supports your growth and healing.
As a warm and approachable BACP Accredited Integrative Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor based in Paignton, I offer a safe, supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Together, we’ll work to understand any patterns that may be affecting you and find ways to create positive change. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to your well-being, helping to build a trusting relationship that supports your growth and healing.
01803 224736 View 01803 224736
Photo of Jessica Eve, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Jessica Eve
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Exeter EX4
Using body psychotherapy (somatic psychotherapy), I will work with you on all levels of your being (mind, body and spirit) in a transparent, caring and empowering way. My focus is on supporting you to achieve the life changes you need to become truly happy, and on creating maximum value for you going forward (so that you can experience deep and lasting change). In my approach, I work by listening deeply to your life force and holding the space for your process to emerge, your inner child to be heard and all of your feelings and thoughts to be welcomed.
Using body psychotherapy (somatic psychotherapy), I will work with you on all levels of your being (mind, body and spirit) in a transparent, caring and empowering way. My focus is on supporting you to achieve the life changes you need to become truly happy, and on creating maximum value for you going forward (so that you can experience deep and lasting change). In my approach, I work by listening deeply to your life force and holding the space for your process to emerge, your inner child to be heard and all of your feelings and thoughts to be welcomed.
023 8214 8218 View 023 8214 8218
Photo of Miriam Berry, Counsellor, MBACP
Miriam Berry
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I commonly work with people who have a chronic illness such as ME/CFS, FND or fibromyalgia.
I provide relational, psychodynamic and integrative psychotherapy. Our conversations are guided by you and what suits your needs. I work inclusively and will attempt to provide every accommodations where relevant.
I commonly work with people who have a chronic illness such as ME/CFS, FND or fibromyalgia.
I provide relational, psychodynamic and integrative psychotherapy. Our conversations are guided by you and what suits your needs. I work inclusively and will attempt to provide every accommodations where relevant.
01392 321021 View 01392 321021
Photo of Dr Claira Moro, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Claira Moro
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Brixham TQ5
Many of the people I work with come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted, often navigating the intersection between long-term health conditions such as IBS, colitis, Crohn's, functional disorders, unexplained symptoms, fatigue, pain, and experiences of trauma, stress, or adversity.
In my NHS role, I work across an Intensive Care Unit and Adult Clinical Health Psychology service, supporting people coping with critical illness and long-term conditions. In private practice, I help adults manage the psychological impact of chronic health difficulties, integrating trauma-focused and emotion-based therapies.
Many of the people I work with come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted, often navigating the intersection between long-term health conditions such as IBS, colitis, Crohn's, functional disorders, unexplained symptoms, fatigue, pain, and experiences of trauma, stress, or adversity.
In my NHS role, I work across an Intensive Care Unit and Adult Clinical Health Psychology service, supporting people coping with critical illness and long-term conditions. In private practice, I help adults manage the psychological impact of chronic health difficulties, integrating trauma-focused and emotion-based therapies.
01803 926094 View 01803 926094
Photo of Kate Needs, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Kate Needs
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
Hi, and a warm welcome. I’m Kate, a grief and loss counsellor in Exeter, Devon, supporting people experiencing bereavement, loss, and life transitions. This includes acquiring a chronic health condition, adult-diagnosed ADHD, divorce/break-ups, infertility/IVF, or living loss, such as empty nest syndrome, estrangement, pre-trial therapy, or retirement. I help people with grief, bereavement by suicide, traumatic loss, miscarriages, and pet bereavement. I am trauma-informed and work with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. I am more than just a therapist—I’m a human being who feels the unspoken and tunes into your way of being. I get it.
Hi, and a warm welcome. I’m Kate, a grief and loss counsellor in Exeter, Devon, supporting people experiencing bereavement, loss, and life transitions. This includes acquiring a chronic health condition, adult-diagnosed ADHD, divorce/break-ups, infertility/IVF, or living loss, such as empty nest syndrome, estrangement, pre-trial therapy, or retirement. I help people with grief, bereavement by suicide, traumatic loss, miscarriages, and pet bereavement. I am trauma-informed and work with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. I am more than just a therapist—I’m a human being who feels the unspoken and tunes into your way of being. I get it.
01572 491353 View 01572 491353
Photo of Rea Pearson, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Rea Pearson
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Exeter EX2
Waitlist for new clients
Experienced & BACP Accredited, sex-positive Gender, Sexuality & Relationship Diversity (GSRD) therapist working with LGBTQIA+ people. Knowledgable about gender, sexuality, neurodivergence, transitioning, polyamory, consensual & ethical non-monogamy (CNM/ENM), open relationships, kink, BDSM, D/s, fetishes, sexual Issues, sex workers, swinging, munches, and sex parties. All genders and sexualities welcome. I support people with opening up relationships, and kinks or power play. I also see a lot of trans and non-binary clients. I am a fully qualified sex therapist so can help with most sexual issues.
Experienced & BACP Accredited, sex-positive Gender, Sexuality & Relationship Diversity (GSRD) therapist working with LGBTQIA+ people. Knowledgable about gender, sexuality, neurodivergence, transitioning, polyamory, consensual & ethical non-monogamy (CNM/ENM), open relationships, kink, BDSM, D/s, fetishes, sexual Issues, sex workers, swinging, munches, and sex parties. All genders and sexualities welcome. I support people with opening up relationships, and kinks or power play. I also see a lot of trans and non-binary clients. I am a fully qualified sex therapist so can help with most sexual issues.
01392 531579 View 01392 531579
Chronic Pain Counsellors
How does chronic pain therapy work?
Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?
Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophising, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?
Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?
There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.