Counselling

Initial Consultation

Thinking about counselling but not quite sure if it's right for you? I completely understand - it's a big step. That's why I offer a free 15-minute phone chat before we decide anything. It's a relaxed conversation where you can tell me a bit about what's brought you here, and I can answer any questions you might have.

There's absolutely no pressure to book sessions afterwards. It's just a chance for us both to get a feel for whether we might work well together.

How I Work With You

You might hear therapists talk about being "integrative" and wonder what that really means for you. Simply put, I don't believe there's just one right way to support someone.

We're all unique, with our own stories and ways of making sense of the world. As an integrative counsellor, I blend different approaches to create something that feels right for you, not forcing you to fit some textbook method.

Meeting In-Person or Online - Your Choice

I offer both face-to-face sessions in Exeter and online counselling via Zoom to fit with your preferences and lifestyle. Some clients enjoy coming to a dedicated space away from everyday life, while others prefer connecting from their own home with no commute. Both approaches can be equally effective, and you'll receive the same level of care and confidentiality either way. We can discuss which option might work best for you during our initial chat.

What Brings People to Counselling

People come to counselling for all sorts of reasons. You might be struggling with anxiety that keeps you up at night, or depression that makes everyday tasks feel impossible. Perhaps you're grieving a loss, navigating a difficult relationship, or feeling stressed and burnt out from work.

Maybe you're going through a major life change or simply feeling that something's not quite right, but can't put your finger on what.

Whatever brings you here, you're not alone; I provide support for many common life challenges and emotional difficulties.

While I work with a broad range of concerns, I have particular experience and passion in three areas.

Healing from Narcissistic Relationships

If you've been in a relationship where you felt confused, belittled, or like you were constantly walking on eggshells, you might have experienced narcissistic abuse. It can leave you questioning your reality and worth. I understand. Together, we can help you rediscover your voice, rebuild trust in yourself, and create healthier boundaries going forward.

LGBTQIA+ Experiences

Life throws enough challenges our way without having to worry about acceptance for simply being who you are. As someone who's worked with the LGBTQIA+ community, I offer a space where your identity is respected and affirmed. Whether you're exploring questions around sexuality or gender, navigating relationships, or dealing with societal pressures, we can work through these experiences together.

Being a Highly Sensitive Person

If you feel things deeply, get easily overwhelmed by sensory input, or absorb others' emotions like a sponge, you might be a Highly Sensitive Person. This isn't a flaw, it's actually a natural trait found in about 20% of the population. I help sensitive people understand themselves better, develop strategies for an overstimulating world, and recognise the incredible gifts that come with heightened sensitivity.

What Our Work Together Might Look Like

Wondering what actually happens in counselling sessions? Each person's journey is different, but here's what you can generally expect:

We'll meet for 50 minutes at a time, usually weekly, though we can adjust this based on what works for you. Everything we talk about stays between us (with a few standard exceptions around safety that I'll explain when we first meet).

There's no set script or formula - you're in the driver's seat. Some people know exactly what they want to work on, while others prefer to explore more openly. I might occasionally suggest ideas or approaches that could be helpful, but ultimately, you decide what feels right.

Some people find what they need in just a few sessions focused on a specific challenge, while others prefer a longer journey of self-discovery. It's completely up to you, and we'll check in regularly to make sure you're getting what you need from our time together.

Integrative Counselling Exeter and Online