Suicidal Ideation Counselling in Watford

Photo of Roxanne Bigwood, Counsellor, MBACP
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
Photo of Julie Smart - Julie Smart Counselling (JSC), Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Julie Smart Counselling (JSC)
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Watford WD17
I understand approaching a counsellor can be daunting. From the outset I offer a safe, non-judgemental, confidential environment where you can talk about how you are feeling and gain deeper insight into any difficulties you may be experiencing. If you are unsure, or you have any questions about engaging in counselling, we can have a brief talk prior to committing to sessions. I will aim to support you to feel at ease in taking this first step. I am BACP accredited and have 16 years experience in supporting clients from a range of different social, cultural, ethnic backgrounds and different gender and sexual orientation.
I understand approaching a counsellor can be daunting. From the outset I offer a safe, non-judgemental, confidential environment where you can talk about how you are feeling and gain deeper insight into any difficulties you may be experiencing. If you are unsure, or you have any questions about engaging in counselling, we can have a brief talk prior to committing to sessions. I will aim to support you to feel at ease in taking this first step. I am BACP accredited and have 16 years experience in supporting clients from a range of different social, cultural, ethnic backgrounds and different gender and sexual orientation.
01923 961556 View 01923 961556
Photo of Verity Critchlow, Counsellor, MBACP
Verity Critchlow
Counsellor, MBACP
Watford WD17
Counselling is about investing time in yourself and people seek counselling for many different reasons. You may be experiencing unwanted thoughts and feelings that are having a negative impact on your life or have specific issues you wish to talk about that are affecting you. Sometimes we repeat old patterns of behaviour that affect our relationships and every day lives. I have particular experience in childhood trauma, domestic abuse, anxiety, depression, addiction and stress at work. Please give me a call or message for a free phone consultation to discuss how I can help you.
Counselling is about investing time in yourself and people seek counselling for many different reasons. You may be experiencing unwanted thoughts and feelings that are having a negative impact on your life or have specific issues you wish to talk about that are affecting you. Sometimes we repeat old patterns of behaviour that affect our relationships and every day lives. I have particular experience in childhood trauma, domestic abuse, anxiety, depression, addiction and stress at work. Please give me a call or message for a free phone consultation to discuss how I can help you.
01923 927988 View 01923 927988
Photo of Rebecca Sare, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Rebecca Sare
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Watford WD18
I’m a counsellor and psychotherapist based a short walk from 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 a short walk from 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
Photo of Cheryl Louise Sandford, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
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
Photo of Karen Jacqueline Joseph - KJCounselling, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc.
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
Photo of Natasha Devine, Counsellor, MBACP
Natasha Devine
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Watford WD18
We can all experience difficult times in our lives that throw us off course. Sometimes we can also feel that we are operating at 100 miles an hour but getting nowhere fast. Stressed and burnt out you can’t seem to focus properly and day to day living can feel too much, affecting your ability to cope. You can feel so alone and misunderstood, trapped within a vicious cycle of negative thinking and self-criticism. Anxiety, depression and low self-esteem can keep you in a dark place. However, with help and support you can begin to break free and focus on your own needs.
We can all experience difficult times in our lives that throw us off course. Sometimes we can also feel that we are operating at 100 miles an hour but getting nowhere fast. Stressed and burnt out you can’t seem to focus properly and day to day living can feel too much, affecting your ability to cope. You can feel so alone and misunderstood, trapped within a vicious cycle of negative thinking and self-criticism. Anxiety, depression and low self-esteem can keep you in a dark place. However, with help and support you can begin to break free and focus on your own needs.
01923 603642 View 01923 603642
Photo of Elena Sullivan, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Elena Sullivan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Watford WD25
Therapy is all about creating meaningful change that will help you to not be held back by mental health difficulties and live your life to the fullest. There's a massive difference between living, and merely existing, and I have been there myself. I feel privileged and excited to be a part of your journey to reach your full potential. This can be a daunting time, as you explore parts of yourself that you haven't acknowledged before, or you have tried previously to work on. I am passionate about therapy as I have seen how life changing it can be and will help you every step of the way to achieve your goals.
Therapy is all about creating meaningful change that will help you to not be held back by mental health difficulties and live your life to the fullest. There's a massive difference between living, and merely existing, and I have been there myself. I feel privileged and excited to be a part of your journey to reach your full potential. This can be a daunting time, as you explore parts of yourself that you haven't acknowledged before, or you have tried previously to work on. I am passionate about therapy as I have seen how life changing it can be and will help you every step of the way to achieve your goals.
01923 961677 View 01923 961677
Photo of Diana Ross, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
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
Photo of Dr Yordan K. Zhekov, Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Dr Yordan K. Zhekov
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Watford WD18
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
Photo of Dr Camilla Follows, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Camilla Follows
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling with patterns that hold you back, I’m here to help you find clarity and confidence. I am a highly experienced Clinical Psychologist dedicated to offering compassionate, evidence-based support to individuals navigating life’s challenges. With over a decade of experience across the NHS and private practice, I bring a broad understanding of mental health and tailor therapy to your unique needs. My approach is warm, collaborative, and focused on creating a safe space where you feel heard and supported.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling with patterns that hold you back, I’m here to help you find clarity and confidence. I am a highly experienced Clinical Psychologist dedicated to offering compassionate, evidence-based support to individuals navigating life’s challenges. With over a decade of experience across the NHS and private practice, I bring a broad understanding of mental health and tailor therapy to your unique needs. My approach is warm, collaborative, and focused on creating a safe space where you feel heard and supported.
01923 961743 View 01923 961743
Photo of Deepa Valji - Here to Hear Therapy - Deepa Valji, Psychotherapist, BACP
Here to Hear Therapy - Deepa Valji
Psychotherapist, BACP
Watford WD17
At times when life feels unpredictable, overwhelming, confusing or you feel alone and unsure, you may need someone to, not only listen to you, but to really hear you. I am a qualified psychotherapist and psychodynamic counsellor. I am a member of the BACP. I have a wealth of experience in working with anxiety and depression, bereavement, trauma, LGBTQ+ and more. I invite you into a space which enables you to think about, explore, and talk about your feelings in a congruent and authentic manner, without fear of judgement.
At times when life feels unpredictable, overwhelming, confusing or you feel alone and unsure, you may need someone to, not only listen to you, but to really hear you. I am a qualified psychotherapist and psychodynamic counsellor. I am a member of the BACP. I have a wealth of experience in working with anxiety and depression, bereavement, trauma, LGBTQ+ and more. I invite you into a space which enables you to think about, explore, and talk about your feelings in a congruent and authentic manner, without fear of judgement.
01923 932567 View 01923 932567
Photo of Carolyn Fisher - Safe Harbour Counselling, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Safe Harbour Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Watford WD25
Hi, my name is Carolyn and I am an experienced person-centred counsellor. I bring a humanistic approach to each person, believing that given the right conditions everyone can reach their full potential and work towards becoming their true self. Person- centred counselling is client led, which means sessions will be led by you with me working alongside you to explore your behaviours, thoughts and feelings. This may include your past, how you feel today and how you see your future.
Hi, my name is Carolyn and I am an experienced person-centred counsellor. I bring a humanistic approach to each person, believing that given the right conditions everyone can reach their full potential and work towards becoming their true self. Person- centred counselling is client led, which means sessions will be led by you with me working alongside you to explore your behaviours, thoughts and feelings. This may include your past, how you feel today and how you see your future.
01923 961417 View 01923 961417
Photo of Oliver John Whitefield, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Oliver John Whitefield
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Watford WD24
Sometimes life’s challenges can feel like too much to handle alone. At those times it can help to have someone professional to talk to in confidence - I offer an understanding, supportive space in which we can work through lifes challenges together. My approach to psychotherapy is both affirming and challenging; supporting you to feel valued and heard whilst enabling you to move past avoidance and fear. I can help you explore elements of your life that are unsatisfactory and work towards making changes and choices that are more true to who you are now.
Sometimes life’s challenges can feel like too much to handle alone. At those times it can help to have someone professional to talk to in confidence - I offer an understanding, supportive space in which we can work through lifes challenges together. My approach to psychotherapy is both affirming and challenging; supporting you to feel valued and heard whilst enabling you to move past avoidance and fear. I can help you explore elements of your life that are unsatisfactory and work towards making changes and choices that are more true to who you are now.
01442 953398 View 01442 953398
Photo of Ortensia Terzi, Counsellor, MSc, UKCP Trainee
Ortensia Terzi
Counsellor, MSc, UKCP Trainee
2 Endorsed
Watford WD17
I support people in working through the emotional challenges that life can present. In a space of trust, empathy, and non-judgement, we can explore your thoughts and feelings together, helping you discover the inner resources you need to create meaningful change and a more fulfilling life. I am also committed to standing against injustice with compassion and integrity, holding space for healing, fairness, and the shared humanity that connects us all.
I support people in working through the emotional challenges that life can present. In a space of trust, empathy, and non-judgement, we can explore your thoughts and feelings together, helping you discover the inner resources you need to create meaningful change and a more fulfilling life. I am also committed to standing against injustice with compassion and integrity, holding space for healing, fairness, and the shared humanity that connects us all.
020 3866 6819 View 020 3866 6819
Photo of Natalie O'Riordan - In Treatment London Ltd, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
In Treatment London Ltd
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Watford WD24
When people contact me for professional support, they often want fast results so as to be able to quickly start to feel better and to feel more in control. Over a period of more than 10 years as a Psychotherapist, I have developed a way of working that quickly allows people to feel more in control amidst the most complex of issues we face as humans. Whether it is a sudden, short-term situation that you need help to deal with, or a long-term ongoing issue that you have recently decided to address, I take a direct, action-led approach to helping you to tackle these challenges.
When people contact me for professional support, they often want fast results so as to be able to quickly start to feel better and to feel more in control. Over a period of more than 10 years as a Psychotherapist, I have developed a way of working that quickly allows people to feel more in control amidst the most complex of issues we face as humans. Whether it is a sudden, short-term situation that you need help to deal with, or a long-term ongoing issue that you have recently decided to address, I take a direct, action-led approach to helping you to tackle these challenges.
07882 238405 View 07882 238405
Photo of Myra Angell, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Myra Angell
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here. When emotions feel overwhelming and communication breaks down, it can create distance in your relationships, whether with a partner, family, or friends. You might feel stuck in habits that knock your confidence or leave you feeling unlike yourself. Maybe you're worn out from trying to keep everyone else happy, and it’s leaving you low on energy, struggling to sleep, and feeling less connected to what used to bring you joy. It’s easy to feel lost when life feels like this — and hard to know where to start.
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here. When emotions feel overwhelming and communication breaks down, it can create distance in your relationships, whether with a partner, family, or friends. You might feel stuck in habits that knock your confidence or leave you feeling unlike yourself. Maybe you're worn out from trying to keep everyone else happy, and it’s leaving you low on energy, struggling to sleep, and feeling less connected to what used to bring you joy. It’s easy to feel lost when life feels like this — and hard to know where to start.
01895 548993 View 01895 548993
Photo of Nabila El-Zanaty, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Nabila El-Zanaty
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
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
Photo of Ayaz Akhtar - Luminous Minds Therapy, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Luminous Minds Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Serves Area
At Luminous Minds Therapy, we offer thoughtful, trauma-informed psychological support for adults, children, young people, families and professionals. With over 20 years’ experience, our team provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy designed to meet the diverse and often complex needs of those we work with. Whether you’re an individual navigating anxiety, trauma or low mood, a parent seeking guidance or a professional supporting a vulnerable young person, we’re here to help. Our work is grounded in relationships, social justice and the belief that healing begins in safe, authentic spaces.
At Luminous Minds Therapy, we offer thoughtful, trauma-informed psychological support for adults, children, young people, families and professionals. With over 20 years’ experience, our team provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy designed to meet the diverse and often complex needs of those we work with. Whether you’re an individual navigating anxiety, trauma or low mood, a parent seeking guidance or a professional supporting a vulnerable young person, we’re here to help. Our work is grounded in relationships, social justice and the belief that healing begins in safe, authentic spaces.
0333 011 2626 View 0333 011 2626
Photo of Donna Karpel, Counsellor, MBACP
Donna Karpel
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Hello and welcome to my profile. If you feel life's pressures and anxieties are proving too difficult for you to cope with, I am able to offer you a safe, non-judgmental space to help you unburden yourself, and express difficult and painful emotions. I like to go at the clients pace and totally respect their privacy. We will work together to explore the past experiences, current difficulties and future possibilities. I am truly passionate about my work, and believe by helping you feel heard and understood, and by helping you find a new perspective on things, together we can facilitate positive change and personal growth.
Hello and welcome to my profile. If you feel life's pressures and anxieties are proving too difficult for you to cope with, I am able to offer you a safe, non-judgmental space to help you unburden yourself, and express difficult and painful emotions. I like to go at the clients pace and totally respect their privacy. We will work together to explore the past experiences, current difficulties and future possibilities. I am truly passionate about my work, and believe by helping you feel heard and understood, and by helping you find a new perspective on things, together we can facilitate positive change and personal growth.
020 3910 6043 View 020 3910 6043
Suicidal Ideation Counsellors

How does therapy for suicidal ideation work?

Stress, depression, anxiety, or upsetting circumstances can give rise to suicidal thinking. Therapy can address the events at the core of an individual’s suffering. Understanding why a person may be suicidal can help the therapist and the patient discover alternative methods of coping. A person with suicidal ideation may be mired in catastrophic thinking, and treatment like cognitive behavioural therapy is a good choice for breaking such patterns. In addition, treatment such as acceptance and commitment therapy can help a person manage their distress through better emotion regulation.

Which therapies are best for suicidal ideation?

Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioural, dialectical behaviour, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioural and dialectical behaviour therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful thoughts and past traumas. These therapies help an individual tolerate distress, regulate emotions, and not act on dangerous urges.

Are there specific medications to be combined with therapy?

The use of medication for suicidal thoughts must be aligned with the underlying cause; conditions such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis may be at the root of suicidal ideation. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for symptoms, which may include antipsychotics such as aripiprazole or antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

How often and how long are therapy sessions for suicidal ideation?

As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, while others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. Still other patients, especially those with co-occurring conditions like major depression and anxiety, may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months. In some cases, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm.