Chronic Illness Counselling in Torquay

Photo of Heather Elizabeth Witcher, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Heather Elizabeth Witcher
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
My counselling process is client focused and tailored. You and your personal journey are unique, therefore there is no "one size fits all" approach in my therapy space. Although I have had a long and varied education into counselling, psychology and social forces, I remain convinced by a fact that I learned on the first day of my degree... It is often not the method of counselling which predicts a benefit to our clients, but the relationship between client and practitioner. I prioritise building trust and a sense of safety that healing can bed into and thrive in.
My counselling process is client focused and tailored. You and your personal journey are unique, therefore there is no "one size fits all" approach in my therapy space. Although I have had a long and varied education into counselling, psychology and social forces, I remain convinced by a fact that I learned on the first day of my degree... It is often not the method of counselling which predicts a benefit to our clients, but the relationship between client and practitioner. I prioritise building trust and a sense of safety that healing can bed into and thrive in.
01803 222980 View 01803 222980
Photo of Dr Eva Walton, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Eva Walton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I am passionate about supporting people facing the many challenges life brings with it, such as transitioning through life events. This includes parenthood, menopause, retirement, bereavement, diagnosis of chronic or terminal illness, and many others. I have particular interest in working with people experiencing negative consequences of being disabled, whether this is physically, or mentally. I have experience working in weight management and pain management, where people often suffer discrimination due to their condition. If this is you, please get in touch. You don't deserve to suffer because of what happened to you.
I am passionate about supporting people facing the many challenges life brings with it, such as transitioning through life events. This includes parenthood, menopause, retirement, bereavement, diagnosis of chronic or terminal illness, and many others. I have particular interest in working with people experiencing negative consequences of being disabled, whether this is physically, or mentally. I have experience working in weight management and pain management, where people often suffer discrimination due to their condition. If this is you, please get in touch. You don't deserve to suffer because of what happened to you.
01803 926078 View 01803 926078
Photo of Tara Culverhouse - Devon Coaching and Counselling, Counsellor, BACP
Devon Coaching and Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
4 Endorsed
Torquay TQ1
Are you existing rather than living? Not fulfilling your potential? Is your anxiety holding you back from a more rewarding life? Therapeutic Coaching could be just the answer. This blends talk therapy with CBT life-coaching techniques to help people heal & thrive. Who Can It help? Anyone needing coping strategies for anxiety, relationship issues, grief or ADHD or anyone struggling to feel any joy or hope. What to Expect: Honest conversation, a focus on your strengths & values and gentle challenge about negative beliefs. Once you find 'you' again the coaching can open the way towards living the life you were meant to have.
Are you existing rather than living? Not fulfilling your potential? Is your anxiety holding you back from a more rewarding life? Therapeutic Coaching could be just the answer. This blends talk therapy with CBT life-coaching techniques to help people heal & thrive. Who Can It help? Anyone needing coping strategies for anxiety, relationship issues, grief or ADHD or anyone struggling to feel any joy or hope. What to Expect: Honest conversation, a focus on your strengths & values and gentle challenge about negative beliefs. Once you find 'you' again the coaching can open the way towards living the life you were meant to have.
01803 224726 View 01803 224726
Photo of Dawn Butler, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Dawn Butler
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Torquay TQ2
I am a fully qualified (Accredited) Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist and Supervisor I work from my private practice in Paignton providing a warm, safe, secure and confidential environment. I like to work in a relational way with empathy, honesty and regard for all clients. I see counselling as a collaborative process in which clients bring their experiences to me and I bring my awareness and knowledge to explore the specific needs of individuals. Being an integrative counsellor means that I use various styles and techniques that I can adapt and develop to help clients discover healthy strategies for coping.
I am a fully qualified (Accredited) Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist and Supervisor I work from my private practice in Paignton providing a warm, safe, secure and confidential environment. I like to work in a relational way with empathy, honesty and regard for all clients. I see counselling as a collaborative process in which clients bring their experiences to me and I bring my awareness and knowledge to explore the specific needs of individuals. Being an integrative counsellor means that I use various styles and techniques that I can adapt and develop to help clients discover healthy strategies for coping.
01803 229163 View 01803 229163
Photo of Dr Marsha Taylor, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Marsha Taylor
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Torquay TQ1
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and Europe Accredited EMDR Consultant Practitioner & Supervisor. I have over 20 years NHS experience of assessment and treatment of adult mental health conditions. I am now offering my extensive therapy skills as an independent practitioner in South Devon. I offer science- based treatments that are uniquely tailored to the individual. My passion is addressing psychological problems rooted in trauma and/or exposure to adverse/stressful experiences at any stage in life. From early attachment wounds to more severe Complex PTSD presentations, & adult trauma resulting PTSD & anxiety conditions.
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and Europe Accredited EMDR Consultant Practitioner & Supervisor. I have over 20 years NHS experience of assessment and treatment of adult mental health conditions. I am now offering my extensive therapy skills as an independent practitioner in South Devon. I offer science- based treatments that are uniquely tailored to the individual. My passion is addressing psychological problems rooted in trauma and/or exposure to adverse/stressful experiences at any stage in life. From early attachment wounds to more severe Complex PTSD presentations, & adult trauma resulting PTSD & anxiety conditions.
01803 224721 View 01803 224721
Photo of Katrina J Campbell-Crocker, Counsellor, MBACP
Katrina J Campbell-Crocker
Counsellor, MBACP
Torquay TQ2
Hi I'm Katrina, an experienced counsellor, I currently have availability. I offer a FREE 15 minute initial counselling call. Support & human connection is so important when you are struggling. I support a range of complexities such as; •Attachment•Separation&Social Anxiety, Family Reactions to MH •Anxiety, Depression & High-Functioning Depression •Bereavement & Loss •Trauma, Childhood Trauma & Abuse •Domestic Abuse •Racial identity•Emotional Intel •Conn Betw Subs Use & Mental Illness •Disability Discrimination •Low Self Esteem & Low Self Worth •Pers & Narcissistic Pers Disorder •Dissociative Disorder & PTSD •ODD & ADHD.
Hi I'm Katrina, an experienced counsellor, I currently have availability. I offer a FREE 15 minute initial counselling call. Support & human connection is so important when you are struggling. I support a range of complexities such as; •Attachment•Separation&Social Anxiety, Family Reactions to MH •Anxiety, Depression & High-Functioning Depression •Bereavement & Loss •Trauma, Childhood Trauma & Abuse •Domestic Abuse •Racial identity•Emotional Intel •Conn Betw Subs Use & Mental Illness •Disability Discrimination •Low Self Esteem & Low Self Worth •Pers & Narcissistic Pers Disorder •Dissociative Disorder & PTSD •ODD & ADHD.
01626 242446 View 01626 242446
Photo of Clare Burke, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Clare Burke
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Serves Area
As human beings we naturally at times feel overwhelmed, stuck, depressed, anxious, sad, fearful and lost. Expert therapy within the safety of a trusting therapeutic relationship can be transformative. I'm an experienced integrative therapist treating mental distress in the many ways it shows up. I work with attachment informed EMDR and Internal Family Systems, both evidence based models, and I am here to walk alongside you as we seek your way out of the discomfort you find yourself in, enabling you to live a full life in this present moment.
As human beings we naturally at times feel overwhelmed, stuck, depressed, anxious, sad, fearful and lost. Expert therapy within the safety of a trusting therapeutic relationship can be transformative. I'm an experienced integrative therapist treating mental distress in the many ways it shows up. I work with attachment informed EMDR and Internal Family Systems, both evidence based models, and I am here to walk alongside you as we seek your way out of the discomfort you find yourself in, enabling you to live a full life in this present moment.
01364 701742 View 01364 701742
Photo of Claire Cook (Willingham), Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Claire Cook (Willingham)
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
Hello.... I am an experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist (MBACP) based in Newton Abbot, Devon. Counselling is not only helpful for traumatic life events, it can also help when you are at a crossroads, feeling stuck or having a huge sense that life is not what it could be. I like to encourage my clients to explore their issues and work towards a better understanding of themselves and the world around them. Together we will look at finding your inner strengths so that you can build in them developing a greater self awareness. However, FINDING THE RIGHT PERON IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT OF THERAPY.
Hello.... I am an experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist (MBACP) based in Newton Abbot, Devon. Counselling is not only helpful for traumatic life events, it can also help when you are at a crossroads, feeling stuck or having a huge sense that life is not what it could be. I like to encourage my clients to explore their issues and work towards a better understanding of themselves and the world around them. Together we will look at finding your inner strengths so that you can build in them developing a greater self awareness. However, FINDING THE RIGHT PERON IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT OF THERAPY.
01626 249147 View 01626 249147
Photo of Hannah Garner, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Hannah Garner
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer a welcoming space when times are difficult; you may need someone to talk to about relationship issues, support with feeling low or anxious, or maybe you'd like to explore feelings about your past. I provide a neuro-affirming space; whether you have a formal diagnosis or are self-diagnosed. My experience includes supporting teenagers, as well as adults. I also have an interest in supporting parents, including those with premature babies; something I have personal experience of. We can work together to help you feel less stressed or worried, to find more balance in life, to notice your strengths, and discover coping skills.
I offer a welcoming space when times are difficult; you may need someone to talk to about relationship issues, support with feeling low or anxious, or maybe you'd like to explore feelings about your past. I provide a neuro-affirming space; whether you have a formal diagnosis or are self-diagnosed. My experience includes supporting teenagers, as well as adults. I also have an interest in supporting parents, including those with premature babies; something I have personal experience of. We can work together to help you feel less stressed or worried, to find more balance in life, to notice your strengths, and discover coping skills.
01803 225424 View 01803 225424
Photo of Amanda Jane Quick, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Amanda Jane Quick
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
Choosing a therapist can be daunting. You may be feeling anxious, depressed, confused, or at a low point. Maybe you're thinking how can anyone understand. If you’ve had no experience of working with a counsellor, or previous counseling wasn't what you expected or were ready to continue, I understand this can be difficult. I work with the complexity and difficulty of trauma which ranges from person to person. You maybe at a crisis point, feeling challenged in your life or struggling to find a way out or move foward. I work from a space by the sea which offers a peaceful location to slow down.
Choosing a therapist can be daunting. You may be feeling anxious, depressed, confused, or at a low point. Maybe you're thinking how can anyone understand. If you’ve had no experience of working with a counsellor, or previous counseling wasn't what you expected or were ready to continue, I understand this can be difficult. I work with the complexity and difficulty of trauma which ranges from person to person. You maybe at a crisis point, feeling challenged in your life or struggling to find a way out or move foward. I work from a space by the sea which offers a peaceful location to slow down.
01572 492187 View 01572 492187
Photo of Ian Scott, Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Ian Scott
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
I have worked in the NHS for over 20 years and I realise that therapy can be a new and unusual approach for people. I often work with folk who are finding things hard, and need a neutral form of support. I can offer direct support, teaching and practice in cognitive and behavioural techniques, or relaxation and mindfulness ideas to help. The goals that a person wants to work towards might be crystal clear to them, or they might refine these as we work together.
I have worked in the NHS for over 20 years and I realise that therapy can be a new and unusual approach for people. I often work with folk who are finding things hard, and need a neutral form of support. I can offer direct support, teaching and practice in cognitive and behavioural techniques, or relaxation and mindfulness ideas to help. The goals that a person wants to work towards might be crystal clear to them, or they might refine these as we work together.
01395 208732 View 01395 208732
Photo of Rachel Strange - Kairos Counselling, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Kairos Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi I'm Rachel. Counselling can be a really powerful space to process the more hidden elements of ourselves. You can expect to be met by me with warmth and empathy and I'll be alongside you as you work through the challenges that brought you to counselling, as you seek clarity and find your voice. I will be there to walk with you as you face the potent things in life that have caused you turbulence and pain.
Hi I'm Rachel. Counselling can be a really powerful space to process the more hidden elements of ourselves. You can expect to be met by me with warmth and empathy and I'll be alongside you as you work through the challenges that brought you to counselling, as you seek clarity and find your voice. I will be there to walk with you as you face the potent things in life that have caused you turbulence and pain.
01803 223046 View 01803 223046
Photo of Dr Elene Robson, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Elene Robson
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
13 Endorsed
Online Only
I have over 20 years of experience working in the NHS, specialising in child and adolescent mental health. This has allowed me to gain extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, young adults, siblings and parents to overcome a wide range of psychological, emotional and behavioural difficulties. I also have a very experienced Family Therapist working alongside me, who is able to work with family and relational difficulties, and three other Clinical Psychologists with a huge amount of experience working alongside me, so we are able to help with most difficulties.
I have over 20 years of experience working in the NHS, specialising in child and adolescent mental health. This has allowed me to gain extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, young adults, siblings and parents to overcome a wide range of psychological, emotional and behavioural difficulties. I also have a very experienced Family Therapist working alongside me, who is able to work with family and relational difficulties, and three other Clinical Psychologists with a huge amount of experience working alongside me, so we are able to help with most difficulties.
01803 308929 View 01803 308929
Photo of Katharine J Pidwell, Counsellor, MBACP
Katharine J Pidwell
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I'm a BACP Registered and NCPS Acc Counsellor/ Psychotherapist & Supervisor with over 12 years experience, currently working in private practice. I'm passionate about making better mental health something accessible for all. Resourcing and facilitating people live their lives emotionally healthy. I've experience of and do work with a vast array of mental health issues, but seeing the person holistically rather than as a 'mental health condition' is so important in how I work. Any queries or questions please do contact me
I'm a BACP Registered and NCPS Acc Counsellor/ Psychotherapist & Supervisor with over 12 years experience, currently working in private practice. I'm passionate about making better mental health something accessible for all. Resourcing and facilitating people live their lives emotionally healthy. I've experience of and do work with a vast array of mental health issues, but seeing the person holistically rather than as a 'mental health condition' is so important in how I work. Any queries or questions please do contact me
01803 500649 View 01803 500649
Photo of Kerry Webber, Counsellor, MBACP
Kerry Webber
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
My name is Kerry and I believe that every human is unique and deserves to be treated with respect and kindness. In my practice I utilise the abundance of natural environment we have locally and provide bespoke therapy packages to suit you as an individual. I specialise in working with trauma, something we have all experienced to some degree. I have gained a wealth of experience and knowledge of life, by spending 19 years in the Military, followed by running my own personal training business for 11 years. My experiences in the military have given me an insight into the effects of Trauma, PTSD, the adaptions we make to survive.
My name is Kerry and I believe that every human is unique and deserves to be treated with respect and kindness. In my practice I utilise the abundance of natural environment we have locally and provide bespoke therapy packages to suit you as an individual. I specialise in working with trauma, something we have all experienced to some degree. I have gained a wealth of experience and knowledge of life, by spending 19 years in the Military, followed by running my own personal training business for 11 years. My experiences in the military have given me an insight into the effects of Trauma, PTSD, the adaptions we make to survive.
01626 243099 View 01626 243099
Photo of Charlotte Watson, Counsellor, BACP
Charlotte Watson
Counsellor, BACP
Serves Area
In my experience we may all at times face hurdles too daunting to negotiate alone. I work with a wide range of issues focussing on clients who have suffered sexual abuse, as well as young people and adults experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, depression and low self esteem. We may have issues and patterns of behaviour from the past that we are ready to leave behind. I offer a safe, confidential therapeutic space to be heard and feel safe. In some cases I work in the here and now, in others I believe in order to understand and find our inner resources to change present behaviour we need to delve into our past.
In my experience we may all at times face hurdles too daunting to negotiate alone. I work with a wide range of issues focussing on clients who have suffered sexual abuse, as well as young people and adults experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, depression and low self esteem. We may have issues and patterns of behaviour from the past that we are ready to leave behind. I offer a safe, confidential therapeutic space to be heard and feel safe. In some cases I work in the here and now, in others I believe in order to understand and find our inner resources to change present behaviour we need to delve into our past.
01364 701745 View 01364 701745
Photo of Robyn Dale, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Robyn Dale
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
As a warm and approachable BACP Accredited Integrative Counsellor 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 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 Mark Hashimi, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Mark Hashimi
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Serves Area
I specialise in working with anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma and work issues. I am highly trained in trauma-informed psychotherapy and coaching. My integrative approach blends transactional analysis psychotherapy, EMDR, and ancient healing practices to address root causes for good. In our first meeting, we’ll discuss goals, agree how we’ll work, and create a flexible plan for lasting change, usually with weekly sessions.
I specialise in working with anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma and work issues. I am highly trained in trauma-informed psychotherapy and coaching. My integrative approach blends transactional analysis psychotherapy, EMDR, and ancient healing practices to address root causes for good. In our first meeting, we’ll discuss goals, agree how we’ll work, and create a flexible plan for lasting change, usually with weekly sessions.
01748 902211 View 01748 902211
Photo of Sally Woodhouse, Counsellor, MBACP
Sally Woodhouse
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I am an experienced therapist who has worked to improve the Mental Health of Adults and Teenagers for nearly 15 years. Life can be very challenging at times and I have worked with hundreds of clients on issues including Relationships, Anxiety, Depression, Change, Emotional instability, Loss, Health, Identity, Self Confidence, Isolation, Negative thoughts, Family Relationships, Sexuality and Divorce.
I am an experienced therapist who has worked to improve the Mental Health of Adults and Teenagers for nearly 15 years. Life can be very challenging at times and I have worked with hundreds of clients on issues including Relationships, Anxiety, Depression, Change, Emotional instability, Loss, Health, Identity, Self Confidence, Isolation, Negative thoughts, Family Relationships, Sexuality and Divorce.
01803 308942 View 01803 308942
Photo of Dr Claira Moro, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Claira Moro
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
Hi, I’m Dr Claira, Specialist Clinical Psychologist registered with HCPC. The people I work with come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted by difficulties such as long-term health conditions, chronic fatigue, chronic pain, and medical or ICU-related trauma. Almost all humans experience adversity or traumatic events at some point in their lives. For many, making a full recovery can feel difficult or even impossible due to a range of emotional, psychological, or environmental factors. This is where psychological therapy can help.
Hi, I’m Dr Claira, Specialist Clinical Psychologist registered with HCPC. The people I work with come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted by difficulties such as long-term health conditions, chronic fatigue, chronic pain, and medical or ICU-related trauma. Almost all humans experience adversity or traumatic events at some point in their lives. For many, making a full recovery can feel difficult or even impossible due to a range of emotional, psychological, or environmental factors. This is where psychological therapy can help.
01803 926094 View 01803 926094
Chronic Illness Counsellors

How does therapy for chronic illness work?

Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.

Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?

Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?

No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.

How long does therapy for chronic illness take?

There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.