Domestic Abuse Counselling in Watford

Jo Derry
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Watford WD25
I am a Specialist Counsellor working with adults who have experienced childhood abuse, gender-based violence and abuse.
I am an experienced counsellor/psychotherapist. I consider it of utmost importance that we build a strong and supportive therapeutic relationship within which you can feel safe and trusting enough to discuss and explore whatever is going on for you. I am here to listen and will not judge what you have to say. I'm here to help you feel better by making sense of the things that you think and feel and to empower you to make your own choices about how you move forward in your life. You can trust that I will act in your best interests at all times and adhere to the BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions.
I am a Specialist Counsellor working with adults who have experienced childhood abuse, gender-based violence and abuse.
I am an experienced counsellor/psychotherapist. I consider it of utmost importance that we build a strong and supportive therapeutic relationship within which you can feel safe and trusting enough to discuss and explore whatever is going on for you. I am here to listen and will not judge what you have to say. I'm here to help you feel better by making sense of the things that you think and feel and to empower you to make your own choices about how you move forward in your life. You can trust that I will act in your best interests at all times and adhere to the BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions.
01923 750844 View 01923 750844
Sandy Cutts
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I am a BACP & ACC registered counsellor working with clients who are experiencing struggles in their personal lives and with relationships. I work in an integrative way using several modalities depending on my clients needs. I am currently doing the Gottman Institute Level 1 & 2 training for couples therapy and use their in-depth assessment and methods to assist couples to repair breakdowns, and achieve the desired outcomes for their relationship. I am trained in Christian Counselling and also offer Christian Principle based counselling to Christians seeking counselling for both psychological and spiritual issues.
I am a BACP & ACC registered counsellor working with clients who are experiencing struggles in their personal lives and with relationships. I work in an integrative way using several modalities depending on my clients needs. I am currently doing the Gottman Institute Level 1 & 2 training for couples therapy and use their in-depth assessment and methods to assist couples to repair breakdowns, and achieve the desired outcomes for their relationship. I am trained in Christian Counselling and also offer Christian Principle based counselling to Christians seeking counselling for both psychological and spiritual issues.
01628 956339 View 01628 956339
Dr Nicola Connolly
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My particular area of expertise is in trauma and working with adults who have had childhood histories of abuse/neglect.
Hello and a warm welcome! I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 27 years experience working both in the NHS and in private practice. I have worked with both adolescents who struggle to talk, to adults with a wide range of mental health problems, and couples with relationship difficulties. I am trained in several therapies with a specialism in Complex Trauma. It can feel very daunting trying to find the right therapist for your needs and I therefore offer you a free 30 minute Zoom meeting or phonecall to meet with me to put you at ease and to see if I am the right person who can help.
My particular area of expertise is in trauma and working with adults who have had childhood histories of abuse/neglect.
Hello and a warm welcome! I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 27 years experience working both in the NHS and in private practice. I have worked with both adolescents who struggle to talk, to adults with a wide range of mental health problems, and couples with relationship difficulties. I am trained in several therapies with a specialism in Complex Trauma. It can feel very daunting trying to find the right therapist for your needs and I therefore offer you a free 30 minute Zoom meeting or phonecall to meet with me to put you at ease and to see if I am the right person who can help.
01494 509324 View 01494 509324
Shafeen Farooq
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Is bereavement or domestic abuse affecting you?
As an integrative counsellor, I use Psychodynamics, Humanistic, CBT, Creative Therapy and Transpersonal Psychology. This allows tailored support to your emotional and psychological needs. I help you process trauma and empower you to turn negative patterns into positive actions, developing emotional growth, confidence and practical coping strategies.
Is bereavement or domestic abuse affecting you?
As an integrative counsellor, I use Psychodynamics, Humanistic, CBT, Creative Therapy and Transpersonal Psychology. This allows tailored support to your emotional and psychological needs. I help you process trauma and empower you to turn negative patterns into positive actions, developing emotional growth, confidence and practical coping strategies.
01708 596213 View 01708 596213
Carrie Pollard
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Serves Area
I am experienced working with trauma specifically domestic abuse, sexual abuse and adults who experienced childhood abuse.
Hello and welcome. I'm Carrie. I wonder why now feels the right time for you to start your therapy? Does life feel heavy? Or relationships feel difficult? Perhaps you are finding you are experiencing anxiety in your day to day life. Or experiences from your past feel so difficult. Whatever has prompted you to make your way here today, rest assured I provide a non judgemental, confidential and safe space to explore emotions, relationships and life experiences. We can think about your past and present, creating a feeling of safety and processing the pain.
I am experienced working with trauma specifically domestic abuse, sexual abuse and adults who experienced childhood abuse.
Hello and welcome. I'm Carrie. I wonder why now feels the right time for you to start your therapy? Does life feel heavy? Or relationships feel difficult? Perhaps you are finding you are experiencing anxiety in your day to day life. Or experiences from your past feel so difficult. Whatever has prompted you to make your way here today, rest assured I provide a non judgemental, confidential and safe space to explore emotions, relationships and life experiences. We can think about your past and present, creating a feeling of safety and processing the pain.
View
Verity Critchlow
Counsellor, MBACP
Watford WD17
I have particular experience in childhood trauma, domestic abuse, anxiety, depression, addiction and stress at work.
As a Gestalt counsellor my approach involves creating a safe and secure space to talk whilst building a non-judgemental therapeutic relationship. I aim to develop your understanding of the issues affecting you, developing self awareness and work with you in order to move forward. Visit my Facebook or Instagram page Verity Counselling for more information.
I have particular experience in childhood trauma, domestic abuse, anxiety, depression, addiction and stress at work.
As a Gestalt counsellor my approach involves creating a safe and secure space to talk whilst building a non-judgemental therapeutic relationship. I aim to develop your understanding of the issues affecting you, developing self awareness and work with you in order to move forward. Visit my Facebook or Instagram page Verity Counselling for more information.
01923 927988 View 01923 927988
Nabila El-Zanaty
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Watford WD24
Thank you for visiting my page and taking the step to access support. Having worked with a wide range of clients experiencing difficulties with their emotional wellbeing, I have developed skills in recognising the sources of problems and how to work on solving them. We would work together in reaching your goals and I encourage a holistic and non-judgemental space that takes into account your individual needs and wants.
Thank you for visiting my page and taking the step to access support. Having worked with a wide range of clients experiencing difficulties with their emotional wellbeing, I have developed skills in recognising the sources of problems and how to work on solving them. We would work together in reaching your goals and I encourage a holistic and non-judgemental space that takes into account your individual needs and wants.
020 3962 0608 View 020 3962 0608
Amanda Jayne Wells
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Watford WD24
I'm a complex trauma and PTSD specialist. Trauma impacts us physically, mentally, energetically and emotionally. Depression and anxiety; anger; intrusive memories, flashbacks or nightmares; addictive or avoidant behaviours, stubborn negative beliefs and relationship difficulties. You might experience physical aches, pains for which the doctors can't find any cause or have had talking therapies previously that have left you feeling no better. Your symptoms may leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed and feeling a million miles away from the person that you want to be.
I'm a complex trauma and PTSD specialist. Trauma impacts us physically, mentally, energetically and emotionally. Depression and anxiety; anger; intrusive memories, flashbacks or nightmares; addictive or avoidant behaviours, stubborn negative beliefs and relationship difficulties. You might experience physical aches, pains for which the doctors can't find any cause or have had talking therapies previously that have left you feeling no better. Your symptoms may leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed and feeling a million miles away from the person that you want to be.
01923 695048 View 01923 695048
Nicola Goulooze
Counsellor, MBACP
Watford WD24
As parents when our children are struggling we just want to help but often don’t know how. What they are facing can feel overwhelming but there is hope. Counselling provides children and young people with a safe space where they can explore, work things out, heal and move on from difficulties that they experience. Working with someone who is not a family member or friend, but who is supportive, non-judgmental and accepting, who helps us make sense of what we are going through and move forward, can be really beneficial. I aim to help young people accept and value themselves, raise their resilience, gain coping skills and thrive.
As parents when our children are struggling we just want to help but often don’t know how. What they are facing can feel overwhelming but there is hope. Counselling provides children and young people with a safe space where they can explore, work things out, heal and move on from difficulties that they experience. Working with someone who is not a family member or friend, but who is supportive, non-judgmental and accepting, who helps us make sense of what we are going through and move forward, can be really beneficial. I aim to help young people accept and value themselves, raise their resilience, gain coping skills and thrive.
01923 961757 View 01923 961757
Dr Neema Chudasama
Psychotherapist, MBBS, MBABCP
Watford WD17
As a therapist, I believe that each of us holds a deep knowledge of ourselves. We are, in many ways, our own greatest resource when it comes to understanding and improving our mental health. However, the skills and tools to navigate this process aren’t always something we’re taught, and there are moments in life where we all need support. That’s where I come in—to help guide and empower you on your journey to becoming your own therapist. Together, we’ll work collaboratively to unlock your potential, as there is no greater gift you can give yourself than the ability to care for your mental health with confidence and clarity.
As a therapist, I believe that each of us holds a deep knowledge of ourselves. We are, in many ways, our own greatest resource when it comes to understanding and improving our mental health. However, the skills and tools to navigate this process aren’t always something we’re taught, and there are moments in life where we all need support. That’s where I come in—to help guide and empower you on your journey to becoming your own therapist. Together, we’ll work collaboratively to unlock your potential, as there is no greater gift you can give yourself than the ability to care for your mental health with confidence and clarity.
01923 311625 View 01923 311625
Manju Botha
Counsellor, MBACP
Watford WD24
Have you been feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? like life is piling more on your shoulders than you can manage. You may be coping with loss, facing difficult decisions, navigating unexpected changes, or juggling multiple responsibilities across work, study, parenting, family, or relationships. Over time the weight of these demands can take a real toll on your emotional wellbeing. I offer compassionate and dedicated counselling in a safe, confidential space for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and life experiences.
Have you been feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? like life is piling more on your shoulders than you can manage. You may be coping with loss, facing difficult decisions, navigating unexpected changes, or juggling multiple responsibilities across work, study, parenting, family, or relationships. Over time the weight of these demands can take a real toll on your emotional wellbeing. I offer compassionate and dedicated counselling in a safe, confidential space for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and life experiences.
01923 311422 View 01923 311422
Cristina Carstea
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Watford WD25
I work in what is described as an 'integrative' approach, ultimately this means having a Person-Centred base and then integrating elements from a number of evidence-based approaches including Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy in order to meet the needs of each individual. For you, this means that the therapy you are provided with, is completely tailored to your specific needs as they change. I believe that everyone has the potential for growth and change and I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you feel safe to explore areas of your life that you are struggling with.
I work in what is described as an 'integrative' approach, ultimately this means having a Person-Centred base and then integrating elements from a number of evidence-based approaches including Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy in order to meet the needs of each individual. For you, this means that the therapy you are provided with, is completely tailored to your specific needs as they change. I believe that everyone has the potential for growth and change and I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you feel safe to explore areas of your life that you are struggling with.
01923 311003 View 01923 311003
KJCounselling
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc.
4 Endorsed
Watford WD18
Are you struggling to cope? Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, confused, depressed or simply stuck? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling numb, detached or unable to process your feelings? Do you feel angry, ashamed, scared or unfulfilled? There are often a range of emotions that people feel when trying to cope with troubling situations and it is not always easy to reach out for help, as people, including family and friends do not necessarily understand how to support you. I believe I can help. I offer a safe, welcoming, confidential space, where I can support you to unpack what's on your mind.
Are you struggling to cope? Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, confused, depressed or simply stuck? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling numb, detached or unable to process your feelings? Do you feel angry, ashamed, scared or unfulfilled? There are often a range of emotions that people feel when trying to cope with troubling situations and it is not always easy to reach out for help, as people, including family and friends do not necessarily understand how to support you. I believe I can help. I offer a safe, welcoming, confidential space, where I can support you to unpack what's on your mind.
01923 961489 View 01923 961489
Virginia Herranz Alvarez
Counsellor, MBACP
Watford WD25
Hello my name is Virginia Herranz My aim is to offer a compassionate environment where you feel genuinely listened to, understood, and supported through whatever challenges you may be facing. We will walk this path together, gently exploring things from another perspective. Along the way we can build awareness around the feelings or behaviors that may no longer serve you, and begin to understand what you might need instead. Sometimes we pour so much into others that we leave very little for ourselves. We tell ourselves its fine, that we can manage, that other need us more . But the truth is that it's okay not to be okay.
Hello my name is Virginia Herranz My aim is to offer a compassionate environment where you feel genuinely listened to, understood, and supported through whatever challenges you may be facing. We will walk this path together, gently exploring things from another perspective. Along the way we can build awareness around the feelings or behaviors that may no longer serve you, and begin to understand what you might need instead. Sometimes we pour so much into others that we leave very little for ourselves. We tell ourselves its fine, that we can manage, that other need us more . But the truth is that it's okay not to be okay.
01923 311842 View 01923 311842
Diana Ross
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Watford WD19
I offer a welcoming environment whereby I hope you feel safe to explore your emotions without fear of criticism or blame. Being listened to at a deep level with warmth and understanding brings huge relief and alleviates distress. Being able to express yourself in the presence of another who seeks to understand and support you is a very powerful experience.
I offer a welcoming environment whereby I hope you feel safe to explore your emotions without fear of criticism or blame. Being listened to at a deep level with warmth and understanding brings huge relief and alleviates distress. Being able to express yourself in the presence of another who seeks to understand and support you is a very powerful experience.
01923 961730 View 01923 961730
Roxanne Bigwood
Counsellor, MBACP
Watford WD17
Do you feel stuck in the grip of past trauma or overwhelmed by anxiety? Life’s challenges can feel isolating, but you don’t have to face them alone. As a trauma-informed therapist, I provide a safe, compassionate space where you can begin to heal, process difficult experiences, and reclaim a sense of peace and control in your life. I specialise in helping individuals navigate: Trauma: Gently working through the emotional impact of past experiences Anxiety: Building tools to manage fear, worry, and overwhelm Emotional Healing: Reconnecting with yourself and fostering resilience.
Do you feel stuck in the grip of past trauma or overwhelmed by anxiety? Life’s challenges can feel isolating, but you don’t have to face them alone. As a trauma-informed therapist, I provide a safe, compassionate space where you can begin to heal, process difficult experiences, and reclaim a sense of peace and control in your life. I specialise in helping individuals navigate: Trauma: Gently working through the emotional impact of past experiences Anxiety: Building tools to manage fear, worry, and overwhelm Emotional Healing: Reconnecting with yourself and fostering resilience.
01923 311860 View 01923 311860
Alice Seferiades
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Watford WD19
We will work together to make sense of your emotional distress, which may be fuelled by bereavement, trauma, abuse, infertility or life stage.
My psychotherapeutic practice is guided by my trainings in person centred emotional focused theories and psychodynamic theories.
We will work together to make sense of your emotional distress, which may be fuelled by bereavement, trauma, abuse, infertility or life stage.
My psychotherapeutic practice is guided by my trainings in person centred emotional focused theories and psychodynamic theories.
01923 961772 View 01923 961772
Rebecca Sare
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Watford WD17
I’m a counsellor and psychotherapist based on the High Street in Watford Town Centre. I work with individuals experiencing many different challenges. These might include depression, anxiety, issues around relationships and sex, questions around identity, issues with confidence and self-esteem, feelings of hopelessness or struggles finding meaning, and everything in-between. As an integrative therapist, my therapeutic practice and thinking are informed by a number of widely recognised approaches. Above all, I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is what makes it such an effective catalyst for change.
I’m a counsellor and psychotherapist based on the High Street in Watford Town Centre. I work with individuals experiencing many different challenges. These might include depression, anxiety, issues around relationships and sex, questions around identity, issues with confidence and self-esteem, feelings of hopelessness or struggles finding meaning, and everything in-between. As an integrative therapist, my therapeutic practice and thinking are informed by a number of widely recognised approaches. Above all, I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is what makes it such an effective catalyst for change.
01923 961104 View 01923 961104
Dr Yordan K. Zhekov
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Watford WD17
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or struggling with everyday life? Perhaps you are experiencing feelings you can't quite identify? Are you looking for help with various life challenging issues/situations? Have you got to the point where you can't go on alone and need someone else to help you? Whatever you are facing, you no longer have to do this alone, I am here to provide you with relevant support and address your needs. As an integrative counsellor I am using a compilation of therapeutic methods tailored to the individual's needs and goals providing an environment for enablement and empowerment of their achievement.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or struggling with everyday life? Perhaps you are experiencing feelings you can't quite identify? Are you looking for help with various life challenging issues/situations? Have you got to the point where you can't go on alone and need someone else to help you? Whatever you are facing, you no longer have to do this alone, I am here to provide you with relevant support and address your needs. As an integrative counsellor I am using a compilation of therapeutic methods tailored to the individual's needs and goals providing an environment for enablement and empowerment of their achievement.
01923 936765 View 01923 936765
Cheryl Louise Sandford
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Watford WD24
I am a qualified integrative counsellor, offering individuals a safe and confidential place for support and exploration. I believe that a respectful and non-judgmental environment is crucial to therapy, this is an essential element of the way I work. I always welcome whole authentic feelings from my clients, without putting a negative label on them. In order to explore overwhelming feelings such as: guilt, depression, anxiety, anger, loss, self-harm etc. without feeling judged, trust needs to be present. The decision to come to counselling is a courageous step - facing our difficulties is never easy but can be liberating.
I am a qualified integrative counsellor, offering individuals a safe and confidential place for support and exploration. I believe that a respectful and non-judgmental environment is crucial to therapy, this is an essential element of the way I work. I always welcome whole authentic feelings from my clients, without putting a negative label on them. In order to explore overwhelming feelings such as: guilt, depression, anxiety, anger, loss, self-harm etc. without feeling judged, trust needs to be present. The decision to come to counselling is a courageous step - facing our difficulties is never easy but can be liberating.
01923 750674 View 01923 750674
Domestic Abuse Counsellors
What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?
Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognise that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

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

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

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