Sexual Abuse Counselling in Sunderland

Photo of Claire McPhail, Counsellor, MBACP
Claire McPhail
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm Claire, a BACP registered psychotherapist working remotely and from my office in Co. Durham. I offer a trauma-informed space for people affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence. My practice integrates the mind and body to support regulation, reconnection and recovery. I believe there are many ways to understand human psychology and wellbeing. I integrate talking therapy with somatic, creative and holistic approaches. I work collaboratively with clients, building an empathic therapeutic relationship where thoughts, feelings and behaviours can be explored so you can reconnect with yourself and feel safer in your life.
I'm Claire, a BACP registered psychotherapist working remotely and from my office in Co. Durham. I offer a trauma-informed space for people affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence. My practice integrates the mind and body to support regulation, reconnection and recovery. I believe there are many ways to understand human psychology and wellbeing. I integrate talking therapy with somatic, creative and holistic approaches. I work collaboratively with clients, building an empathic therapeutic relationship where thoughts, feelings and behaviours can be explored so you can reconnect with yourself and feel safer in your life.
0191 743 9541 View 0191 743 9541
Photo of Michael Colling, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Michael Colling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Whether you are finding it difficult to make a tough choice, or if you are experiencing difficult times that are a little bit overwhelming for you; if its to do with bereavement, mental health/illness, depression, anxiety, phobias, relationships or something in the past that feels unresolved, then it would be a privilege for me as a qualified counsellor/psychotherapist to join you on your road to a better place. I bring with me insights from my experience in mental health nursing also. I am a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming counsellor with an excellent reputation in this field.
Whether you are finding it difficult to make a tough choice, or if you are experiencing difficult times that are a little bit overwhelming for you; if its to do with bereavement, mental health/illness, depression, anxiety, phobias, relationships or something in the past that feels unresolved, then it would be a privilege for me as a qualified counsellor/psychotherapist to join you on your road to a better place. I bring with me insights from my experience in mental health nursing also. I am a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming counsellor with an excellent reputation in this field.
0191 743 6578 View 0191 743 6578
Photo of Vicky Horgan - Counselling Direct , Counsellor, MBACP
Counselling Direct
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Hi, my name is Vicky and welcome to Counselling Direct. Are you struggling with life's challenges such as anxiety, ADHD/ADD, ASD, bereavement, depression or low self-esteem, then counselling can help. I offer a warm and friendly professional service and provide a safe and confidential space where you can feel free to explore your thoughts, feelings and issues. I work with people with a range of difficulties, helping them to gain personal awareness, a clearer perspective on their life and make positive changes.
Hi, my name is Vicky and welcome to Counselling Direct. Are you struggling with life's challenges such as anxiety, ADHD/ADD, ASD, bereavement, depression or low self-esteem, then counselling can help. I offer a warm and friendly professional service and provide a safe and confidential space where you can feel free to explore your thoughts, feelings and issues. I work with people with a range of difficulties, helping them to gain personal awareness, a clearer perspective on their life and make positive changes.
0191 607 6440 View 0191 607 6440
Photo of Mandi Purvis, Counsellor, MBACP
Mandi Purvis
Counsellor, MBACP
Welcome. Are you struggling at the moment? Connecting with a professional therapist you feel comfortable with is vital as you step into your counselling journey. Please read my profile thoroughly and ensure you are happy with my fees and the therapy I offer. You may be grieving, lost, or have unprocessed traumas. You may feel anxious, about situations or issues in your life. You may be feeling ‘not good enough’ or perhaps you are going through work, identity or life changes or family struggles that are confusing and overwhelming. If you feel powerless at the moment or full of shame I’m here to empower you and help you.
Welcome. Are you struggling at the moment? Connecting with a professional therapist you feel comfortable with is vital as you step into your counselling journey. Please read my profile thoroughly and ensure you are happy with my fees and the therapy I offer. You may be grieving, lost, or have unprocessed traumas. You may feel anxious, about situations or issues in your life. You may be feeling ‘not good enough’ or perhaps you are going through work, identity or life changes or family struggles that are confusing and overwhelming. If you feel powerless at the moment or full of shame I’m here to empower you and help you.
07803 708199 View 07803 708199
Photo of Felicity Cousins, Counsellor, MBACP
Felicity Cousins
Counsellor, MBACP
I can offer you a safe space to be yourself. I’m a Psychotherapeutic counsellor and a registered member of the BACP who has direct experience working with adults suffering with anxiety, depression and more. I am nurturing, warm and compassionate and with an approach free from judgement, I can help you to identify and work through any challenges that you are facing. I work relationally using integrative methods which means counselling is a unique process -depending on what you need. Whether you want to work in the here and now to make changes or delve into the past and explore your story, I offer flexibility in therapy sessions.
I can offer you a safe space to be yourself. I’m a Psychotherapeutic counsellor and a registered member of the BACP who has direct experience working with adults suffering with anxiety, depression and more. I am nurturing, warm and compassionate and with an approach free from judgement, I can help you to identify and work through any challenges that you are facing. I work relationally using integrative methods which means counselling is a unique process -depending on what you need. Whether you want to work in the here and now to make changes or delve into the past and explore your story, I offer flexibility in therapy sessions.
0191 814 7131 View 0191 814 7131
Photo of Steve Jarvis - IAS Ltd, Psychotherapist, BACP
IAS Ltd
Psychotherapist, BACP
I have over 25 years of experience working with adults -couples and young people who are experiencing, anxiety, depression along with other emotional and psychological distress. Counselling can be a liberating and uplifting experience, making the first step to call a counsellor is the biggest step you can make. see further down the page for more information about counselling ) I also see couples who are experiencing relationship issues and difficulties or just need to talk through issues together, in a professional, safe place.I qualified as a Person Centred Counsellor and Cognitive (CBT) Therapist. Take the steps to make change
I have over 25 years of experience working with adults -couples and young people who are experiencing, anxiety, depression along with other emotional and psychological distress. Counselling can be a liberating and uplifting experience, making the first step to call a counsellor is the biggest step you can make. see further down the page for more information about counselling ) I also see couples who are experiencing relationship issues and difficulties or just need to talk through issues together, in a professional, safe place.I qualified as a Person Centred Counsellor and Cognitive (CBT) Therapist. Take the steps to make change
07506 747122 View 07506 747122
Gillian Judith Ellis
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I have extensive experience in helping with trauma, domestic and sexual abuse, along with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and low confidence.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, fear? There is help and support available to you, all you have to do is reach out. We know life is hard, but sometimes other things make it even harder, this is where I can help. Counselling can help you make sense of things, help to get some understanding of what you need and how to make changes that will help. It also gives you some focus on what's important to you, relationships, handling stress better, major life changes and much more. All of this is possible, and achievable, take control of your life and reach out for the support you deserve.
I have extensive experience in helping with trauma, domestic and sexual abuse, along with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and low confidence.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, fear? There is help and support available to you, all you have to do is reach out. We know life is hard, but sometimes other things make it even harder, this is where I can help. Counselling can help you make sense of things, help to get some understanding of what you need and how to make changes that will help. It also gives you some focus on what's important to you, relationships, handling stress better, major life changes and much more. All of this is possible, and achievable, take control of your life and reach out for the support you deserve.
0191 743 9063 View 0191 743 9063
Photo of Robert Edminson, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Robert Edminson
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
I am a qualified Person Centred Counsellor and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT). I have over 20 years experience working with children and adults with complex needs. My focus is on helping clients understand and address thought patterns that may be impacting their emotional well-being and behaviour. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, aimed at providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore life’s challenges. I work with adults and adolescents on issues including ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and low self-esteem.
I am a qualified Person Centred Counsellor and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT). I have over 20 years experience working with children and adults with complex needs. My focus is on helping clients understand and address thought patterns that may be impacting their emotional well-being and behaviour. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, aimed at providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore life’s challenges. I work with adults and adolescents on issues including ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and low self-esteem.
0191 743 2773 View 0191 743 2773
Photo of Tracy Woodhouse, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Tracy Woodhouse
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
I’m a qualified Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor with over 7 years of experience running my own practice. I’m deeply committed to helping clients navigate lifes challenges, working through anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, burnout, or relationship difficulties. I support children and adults, tailoring therapy to meet each clients emotional, developmental, and psychological needs. My approach is compassionate and grounded in the belief that clients deserve to feel safe, understood, respected, heard and supported. I take an integrative, person-centred approach, combining evidence-based therapies to best suit your needs.
I’m a qualified Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor with over 7 years of experience running my own practice. I’m deeply committed to helping clients navigate lifes challenges, working through anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, burnout, or relationship difficulties. I support children and adults, tailoring therapy to meet each clients emotional, developmental, and psychological needs. My approach is compassionate and grounded in the belief that clients deserve to feel safe, understood, respected, heard and supported. I take an integrative, person-centred approach, combining evidence-based therapies to best suit your needs.
0191 580 4413 View 0191 580 4413
Photo of Natalie Holmes, Counsellor, MBACP
Natalie Holmes
Counsellor, MBACP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Natalie, the therapist at East Durham Counselling. I work with adults and young people in private practice. I’m trained in integrative counselling, which means I have lots of techniques to choose from when deciding what will help my clients the most; I draw from person-centred, psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapies depending on the presenting issues and client's needs. I have experience of working with autism, ADHD, abuse, anxiety, bereavement, depression, domestic violence, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, self-harm, stress, trauma and dissociation.
Hi, I’m Natalie, the therapist at East Durham Counselling. I work with adults and young people in private practice. I’m trained in integrative counselling, which means I have lots of techniques to choose from when deciding what will help my clients the most; I draw from person-centred, psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapies depending on the presenting issues and client's needs. I have experience of working with autism, ADHD, abuse, anxiety, bereavement, depression, domestic violence, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, self-harm, stress, trauma and dissociation.
0191 743 9237 View 0191 743 9237
Photo of Dr Louise Fernandes, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Louise Fernandes
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Hello and welcome - I’m really glad you’re here. I’m Louise, an experienced Clinical Psychologist. I support people with mental health difficulties, life changes, and adjusting to physical health conditions. I qualified in Newcastle in 2006 and have over 20 years’ experience in NHS community and hospital settings. I now run a private clinic in Jesmond and offer face-to-face, online, and telephone appointments for those aged 16+, so you can access support in a way that feels most comfortable for you. Concessionary rates are available for NHS and Blue Light workers.
Hello and welcome - I’m really glad you’re here. I’m Louise, an experienced Clinical Psychologist. I support people with mental health difficulties, life changes, and adjusting to physical health conditions. I qualified in Newcastle in 2006 and have over 20 years’ experience in NHS community and hospital settings. I now run a private clinic in Jesmond and offer face-to-face, online, and telephone appointments for those aged 16+, so you can access support in a way that feels most comfortable for you. Concessionary rates are available for NHS and Blue Light workers.
0191 743 3231 View 0191 743 3231
Photo of Dr Kathleen Hass, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Kathleen Hass
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a warm and empathetic approach, and a wealth of experience both in the NHS and in private practice working with adults, adolescents and children with a range of problems, including: anxiety; depression; trauma and PTSD; stress and burnout; obsessions and compulsions; relationship problems; Personality Disorder and emotional regulation; and, emotional difficulties associated with physical health problems. I regularly work with clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, and learning disabilities.
I have a warm and empathetic approach, and a wealth of experience both in the NHS and in private practice working with adults, adolescents and children with a range of problems, including: anxiety; depression; trauma and PTSD; stress and burnout; obsessions and compulsions; relationship problems; Personality Disorder and emotional regulation; and, emotional difficulties associated with physical health problems. I regularly work with clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, and learning disabilities.
0191 814 7219 View 0191 814 7219
Photo of Victoria Helen Miller - Great Minds Psychology, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Great Minds Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Victoria is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 year’s experience in the NHS and private sector. She has a special interest in supporting adults with emotional difficulties that they may face around their physical health conditions. She has has extensive experience of working with anxiety, low mood, adjustment and relationship issues. She also has a special interest in trauma and uses EMDR to formulate and work with adults who have experienced complex or single event traumas.
Victoria is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 year’s experience in the NHS and private sector. She has a special interest in supporting adults with emotional difficulties that they may face around their physical health conditions. She has has extensive experience of working with anxiety, low mood, adjustment and relationship issues. She also has a special interest in trauma and uses EMDR to formulate and work with adults who have experienced complex or single event traumas.
0191 743 9628 View 0191 743 9628
Photo of Andrew Flynn - Talking Spaces UK , Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Talking Spaces UK
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
I work from the understanding that human experience includes distress, conflict, and harm, and that avoiding these realities is neither helpful nor therapeutic. In the therapy room, I offer a non-judgemental, reflective space where clients can explore their experiences honestly and at their own pace. My role is not to impose interpretations or provide simplistic reassurance, but to listen carefully, ask meaningful questions, and support clients in developing insight, emotional awareness, and psychological resilience.I see therapy as a collaborative process grounded in respect, autonomy, and ethical practice.
I work from the understanding that human experience includes distress, conflict, and harm, and that avoiding these realities is neither helpful nor therapeutic. In the therapy room, I offer a non-judgemental, reflective space where clients can explore their experiences honestly and at their own pace. My role is not to impose interpretations or provide simplistic reassurance, but to listen carefully, ask meaningful questions, and support clients in developing insight, emotional awareness, and psychological resilience.I see therapy as a collaborative process grounded in respect, autonomy, and ethical practice.
01429 806967 View 01429 806967
Photo of Lindsay Wilkinson, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Lindsay Wilkinson
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I specialise in working with individuals who have difficulties in managing their emotions and therefore struggle with things like relationships, drinking, substance use, self harming and other impulsive behaviour. You don't need a formal diagnosis to work with me, but I do have a speciality of working with people with personality disorders. I also have lots of experience of working with people who have had traumatic histories and are struggling to manage as a result. This might mean they are depressed, anxious or just finding trusting people hard. As well as these specialities, I also work with all major mental health issues
I specialise in working with individuals who have difficulties in managing their emotions and therefore struggle with things like relationships, drinking, substance use, self harming and other impulsive behaviour. You don't need a formal diagnosis to work with me, but I do have a speciality of working with people with personality disorders. I also have lots of experience of working with people who have had traumatic histories and are struggling to manage as a result. This might mean they are depressed, anxious or just finding trusting people hard. As well as these specialities, I also work with all major mental health issues
0191 917 9403 View 0191 917 9403
Photo of Luisa Williams - My Family Psychologist, Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
My Family Psychologist
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My work is to empower you to understand and manage your own and your family's psychological wellbeing. From initial confusion and hopelessness the end game is enlightenment and clarity. I rely on data, clear aims, objectives, and objective measurement.
My work is to empower you to understand and manage your own and your family's psychological wellbeing. From initial confusion and hopelessness the end game is enlightenment and clarity. I rely on data, clear aims, objectives, and objective measurement.
01670 338152 View 01670 338152
Photo of Joanna Moseley, Counsellor, MBACP
Joanna Moseley
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel sad, lost, weighed down by past events? Has lockdown had a lasting emotional impact? Are you troubled by childhood trauma? Or a loss which prevents you living fully in the present? Are you experiencing bullying or abuse at home or at work? Do you feel called to explore the spiritual or intuitive parts of yourself? As an experienced person centred counsellor I can offer you the opportunity to explore these and other issues within a safe therapeutic relationship. I know that starting counselling can feel daunting and take real courage. I am a gentle, empathic and sensitive practitioner and will help you feel at ease.
Do you feel sad, lost, weighed down by past events? Has lockdown had a lasting emotional impact? Are you troubled by childhood trauma? Or a loss which prevents you living fully in the present? Are you experiencing bullying or abuse at home or at work? Do you feel called to explore the spiritual or intuitive parts of yourself? As an experienced person centred counsellor I can offer you the opportunity to explore these and other issues within a safe therapeutic relationship. I know that starting counselling can feel daunting and take real courage. I am a gentle, empathic and sensitive practitioner and will help you feel at ease.
0191 743 3192 View 0191 743 3192
Photo of Karen Ambelez, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Karen Ambelez
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
Struggling to cope with negative emotions can feel very isolating and, by the nature of some problems, guilt and shame can make us feel stigmatised and prevent us reaching out for support even when its not our fault. People come to counselling for all kinds of reasons from childhood trauma to life events as adults such as divorce, bereavement and stress and what they all have in common is a desire to feel better and begin to enjoy life. Some people find they use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to cope with their feelings but inventively this creates more problems
Struggling to cope with negative emotions can feel very isolating and, by the nature of some problems, guilt and shame can make us feel stigmatised and prevent us reaching out for support even when its not our fault. People come to counselling for all kinds of reasons from childhood trauma to life events as adults such as divorce, bereavement and stress and what they all have in common is a desire to feel better and begin to enjoy life. Some people find they use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to cope with their feelings but inventively this creates more problems
07480 535288 View 07480 535288
Photo of Dr Stuart Sadler, Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Dr Stuart Sadler
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Serves Area
I specialise in helping people overcome problems such as depression, anxiety (whether due to worry, obsessive-compulsive disorder, health anxiety, or intrusive thoughts), and sleep disorders (such as insomnia, nightmares and early waking) so they can feel better and function better in day to day life again.
I specialise in helping people overcome problems such as depression, anxiety (whether due to worry, obsessive-compulsive disorder, health anxiety, or intrusive thoughts), and sleep disorders (such as insomnia, nightmares and early waking) so they can feel better and function better in day to day life again.
019467 60715 View 019467 60715
Photo of Julie Campbell - North East Counselling Services, Counsellor, MBACP
North East Counselling Services
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
North East Counselling Services provide counselling to anyone aged 4+ using our team of experienced counsellors. We provide counselling for couples in addition to individuals. We believe that getting you the right counsellor is important to your progress which is why we carry out an assessment then allocate you to the most appropriate counsellor, not just whoever is available. We've got a team of around 50 counsellors and 98% of our clients have said that our counselling helped them.
North East Counselling Services provide counselling to anyone aged 4+ using our team of experienced counsellors. We provide counselling for couples in addition to individuals. We believe that getting you the right counsellor is important to your progress which is why we carry out an assessment then allocate you to the most appropriate counsellor, not just whoever is available. We've got a team of around 50 counsellors and 98% of our clients have said that our counselling helped them.
01757 605682 View 01757 605682
Sexual Abuse Counsellors
How do therapists treat sexual abuse?
A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

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

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

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