Sexual Abuse Counselling in Cheltenham

Photo of Laurel Tester, BACP, Counsellor
Laurel Tester
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL52
I have specialist training in rape and sexual abuse and can offer safe and confidential space to process these experiences.
I have a special interest in intergenerational and relational trauma. This includes working with mothers to heal their own 'mother wound,' and also working with men on internalised messages of masculinity, identity and intimacy.
I have specialist training in rape and sexual abuse and can offer safe and confidential space to process these experiences.
I have a special interest in intergenerational and relational trauma. This includes working with mothers to heal their own 'mother wound,' and also working with men on internalised messages of masculinity, identity and intimacy.
01432 233392 View 01432 233392
Photo of Carley Ayling, BACP, Counsellor
Carley Ayling
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50  (Online Only)
My specialisms include sexual assault, trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Hello, I am Carley Ayling and I’ve been working as a counsellor since my training in 2010. I provide treatment to individuals aged 14 years and above, male and female. I’ve worked with many clients with depression, anxiety, OCD, relationships difficulties, parents whose children suffer from behavioural issues, suicide and self-harm. I’ve also helped with sleep, financial and sexual assault. I offer a free initial appointment where we can exchange information to see if we are happy to work together. I can only provide sessions via Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, WhatsApp video or telephone calls in the evenings.
My specialisms include sexual assault, trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Hello, I am Carley Ayling and I’ve been working as a counsellor since my training in 2010. I provide treatment to individuals aged 14 years and above, male and female. I’ve worked with many clients with depression, anxiety, OCD, relationships difficulties, parents whose children suffer from behavioural issues, suicide and self-harm. I’ve also helped with sleep, financial and sexual assault. I offer a free initial appointment where we can exchange information to see if we are happy to work together. I can only provide sessions via Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, WhatsApp video or telephone calls in the evenings.
01489 346870 View 01489 346870
Photo of Julie Jakeman, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Julie Jakeman
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham GL52
Children and Young People have many issues which they cannot always express and understand their feelings, as adults sometimes can. Issues can range from parents splitting up, school problems, exam stress and pressure, friendship issues, witnessing domestic abuse or sexual abuse. The lists can be endless. My job is to creatively work with the child or young person to explore what their issues are and help build up self esteem and track their goals in therapy in creative ways.
Children and Young People have many issues which they cannot always express and understand their feelings, as adults sometimes can. Issues can range from parents splitting up, school problems, exam stress and pressure, friendship issues, witnessing domestic abuse or sexual abuse. The lists can be endless. My job is to creatively work with the child or young person to explore what their issues are and help build up self esteem and track their goals in therapy in creative ways.
01905 950220 View 01905 950220
Photo of Helen Ferreira - Vision Counselling & Supervision , DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Vision Counselling & Supervision
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL52
I am also experienced in supporting those who have experienced sexual assault and rape and survivors of childhood sexual abuse including those that have dissociative symptoms due to the trauma that they have experienced.
Hello, my name is Helen, very often things stand in our way to us enjoying even the simplest pleasures in life. You may need help with Anger, Anxiety, Guilt, Shame, Depression or Stress. You may be experiencing a Relationship Breakdown, struggling to come to terms with the death of someone or you may want to become more self aware, then Vision Counselling Service is here to help you. I am a counsellor, supervisor & manager of Vision Counselling offering you a choice of counsellors best suited to your counselling needs . Do feel free to book a confidential telephone call to discuss your requirements further.
I am also experienced in supporting those who have experienced sexual assault and rape and survivors of childhood sexual abuse including those that have dissociative symptoms due to the trauma that they have experienced.
Hello, my name is Helen, very often things stand in our way to us enjoying even the simplest pleasures in life. You may need help with Anger, Anxiety, Guilt, Shame, Depression or Stress. You may be experiencing a Relationship Breakdown, struggling to come to terms with the death of someone or you may want to become more self aware, then Vision Counselling Service is here to help you. I am a counsellor, supervisor & manager of Vision Counselling offering you a choice of counsellors best suited to your counselling needs . Do feel free to book a confidential telephone call to discuss your requirements further.
01386 577206 View 01386 577206
Photo of Shelley Marie Alcock - Cheltenham’s Counselling Centre  , DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Cheltenham’s Counselling Centre
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
I have experience with working with adults of all ages, teenagers and younger children on a wide range of issues including: anxiety, identity, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, stress, grief, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, relationship issues, eating disorders, self-harm, and more.
Hello my name is Shelley and I am a qualified adult and child Therapeutic Counsellor. I have a vast amount of experience as a pastoral worker working in schools and as a counsellor working for a charity. I am a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and offer face to face or online sessions . These sessions provide a confidential, supportive environment where clients can feel safe and explore the work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe by offering online counselling this gives each individual the ability to reach their true potential within the safety of their chosen space.
I have experience with working with adults of all ages, teenagers and younger children on a wide range of issues including: anxiety, identity, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, stress, grief, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, relationship issues, eating disorders, self-harm, and more.
Hello my name is Shelley and I am a qualified adult and child Therapeutic Counsellor. I have a vast amount of experience as a pastoral worker working in schools and as a counsellor working for a charity. I am a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and offer face to face or online sessions . These sessions provide a confidential, supportive environment where clients can feel safe and explore the work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe by offering online counselling this gives each individual the ability to reach their true potential within the safety of their chosen space.
01242 339245 View 01242 339245
Photo of Bobbi Gill, MBACP, Counsellor
Bobbi Gill
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50  (Online Only)
I am an experienced Integrative Trauma -Informed Counsellor working with adults based in Gloucestershire. Life can be challenging and sometimes we can find it hard to cope with the overwhelm or find ourselves stuck. Working with you, I offer a welcoming confidential and safe space to help you process difficult situations or feelings, explore your thoughts, feel heard and understood, develop a greater understanding of yourself and your issues, find patterns and make connections. Together we will work out how best to work through and resolve any deep-rooted issues/patterns/behaviours and agree strategies to help you move forward.
I am an experienced Integrative Trauma -Informed Counsellor working with adults based in Gloucestershire. Life can be challenging and sometimes we can find it hard to cope with the overwhelm or find ourselves stuck. Working with you, I offer a welcoming confidential and safe space to help you process difficult situations or feelings, explore your thoughts, feel heard and understood, develop a greater understanding of yourself and your issues, find patterns and make connections. Together we will work out how best to work through and resolve any deep-rooted issues/patterns/behaviours and agree strategies to help you move forward.
01452 923095 View 01452 923095
Photo of Hayley Carmichael, MA, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Hayley Carmichael
Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham GL53  (Online Only)
You may need a space that feels neutral and safe to talk about things that you have never talked about before; to talk to someone who is there to fully listen to you with no distractions or agenda. Many clients say they just want to be able to find their joy again and know themselves better. Sometimes life can feel a bit in limbo and a change of direction feels hard to navigate, talking about this can help break that limbo and bring about the changes you want to see for yourself. Or perhaps circumstances feel overwhelming and you need some room to consider what's going on and where you go next. No reason is too small for therapy.
You may need a space that feels neutral and safe to talk about things that you have never talked about before; to talk to someone who is there to fully listen to you with no distractions or agenda. Many clients say they just want to be able to find their joy again and know themselves better. Sometimes life can feel a bit in limbo and a change of direction feels hard to navigate, talking about this can help break that limbo and bring about the changes you want to see for yourself. Or perhaps circumstances feel overwhelming and you need some room to consider what's going on and where you go next. No reason is too small for therapy.
01453 703128 View 01453 703128
Photo of Dawn Andrei, MBACP, Counsellor
Dawn Andrei
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Are you struggling with your emotions, overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship difficulties? Perhaps stuck in destructive habitual behavioural patterns, or addictive behaviours without understanding why? I offer a safe and empathetic environment to support your growth in developing self-awareness, through a range of therapeutic approaches, building a bespoke tool kit of coping techniques to support you work through your difficulties, develop emotional regulation and make the desired changes in your life.
Are you struggling with your emotions, overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship difficulties? Perhaps stuck in destructive habitual behavioural patterns, or addictive behaviours without understanding why? I offer a safe and empathetic environment to support your growth in developing self-awareness, through a range of therapeutic approaches, building a bespoke tool kit of coping techniques to support you work through your difficulties, develop emotional regulation and make the desired changes in your life.
01452 941827 View 01452 941827
Photo of Elizabeth Shaw, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Elizabeth Shaw
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL52
Life is often confusing, painful and overwhelming.  Therapy can provide a safe space to explore these feelings and manage them. Hi I’m Liz. I am a Relational Integrative Psychotherapist.  I can draw on a variety of therapeutic styles to meet your unique needs. I aim to provide a supportive, empathic and non-judgemental relationship, through which you can better understand yourself. I am here to listen. If you choose to call you can expect an initial consultation in which we will establish what you would like to address and whether you would like to work with me.
Life is often confusing, painful and overwhelming.  Therapy can provide a safe space to explore these feelings and manage them. Hi I’m Liz. I am a Relational Integrative Psychotherapist.  I can draw on a variety of therapeutic styles to meet your unique needs. I aim to provide a supportive, empathic and non-judgemental relationship, through which you can better understand yourself. I am here to listen. If you choose to call you can expect an initial consultation in which we will establish what you would like to address and whether you would like to work with me.
01242 503626 View 01242 503626
Photo of Helen Smith, MBACP, Counsellor
Helen Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL52
I work with whoever comes to me but also have special interest in the following groups: Women who may have a nagging feeling that life could be more beautiful. They may feel trapped by past choices or have experienced a wake-up call or final straw such as a bereavement, relationship difficulties, or peri-menopause or menopause difficulties. Teenagers who feel overwhelmed with life. They may find it hard to put their feelings into words or to talk to friends and family. Perhaps they feel tension between what they want and the expectation of others. Trainee counsellors who may be looking forward to therapy, or perhaps the training is
I work with whoever comes to me but also have special interest in the following groups: Women who may have a nagging feeling that life could be more beautiful. They may feel trapped by past choices or have experienced a wake-up call or final straw such as a bereavement, relationship difficulties, or peri-menopause or menopause difficulties. Teenagers who feel overwhelmed with life. They may find it hard to put their feelings into words or to talk to friends and family. Perhaps they feel tension between what they want and the expectation of others. Trainee counsellors who may be looking forward to therapy, or perhaps the training is
01242 903654 View 01242 903654
Photo of Rachel Power The Walk And Talk Therapist, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Rachel Power The Walk And Talk Therapist
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
I am an experienced counsellor PROVIDING THERAPY IN THE OUTDOORS. Sometimes we want to talk but sitting in a counselling room might not feel like the right space for you. WALKING WHILST TALKING might just give you the space and freedom to begin to understand some uncomfortable feelings and past experiences in the safe hands of myself within nature. Being in nature will help you to learn how to resource yourself whilst processing the past giving you a clearer feel of the future. You may feel anxious or depressed, struggling with relationships. I work from Pittville Park, The Cotswolds and Crickley Hill. I also do home visits.
I am an experienced counsellor PROVIDING THERAPY IN THE OUTDOORS. Sometimes we want to talk but sitting in a counselling room might not feel like the right space for you. WALKING WHILST TALKING might just give you the space and freedom to begin to understand some uncomfortable feelings and past experiences in the safe hands of myself within nature. Being in nature will help you to learn how to resource yourself whilst processing the past giving you a clearer feel of the future. You may feel anxious or depressed, struggling with relationships. I work from Pittville Park, The Cotswolds and Crickley Hill. I also do home visits.
07961 627500 View 07961 627500
Photo of Martyn Pars, MBACP, Counsellor
Martyn Pars
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
My Offer To You: Being heard, understood, believed in and supported. We all need this kind of support at some point in our lives. This is my offer to you. I am an accredited professional counsellor (PNCPS acc.) registered through the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP reg) which means I am held on the Professional Standards Authority Accredited Register thus ensuring protection to the public and helping to ensure their health and wellbeing. I have a particular interest in those with later in life ADHD diagnosis or if you suspect you might be. I am also a professional executive coach.
My Offer To You: Being heard, understood, believed in and supported. We all need this kind of support at some point in our lives. This is my offer to you. I am an accredited professional counsellor (PNCPS acc.) registered through the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP reg) which means I am held on the Professional Standards Authority Accredited Register thus ensuring protection to the public and helping to ensure their health and wellbeing. I have a particular interest in those with later in life ADHD diagnosis or if you suspect you might be. I am also a professional executive coach.
01242 507893 View 01242 507893
Photo of Susannah Newell, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Susannah Newell
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL53
Hello. As an experienced psychotherapist, I can help you manage current life challenges like sudden changes or losses; anxiety; relationship issues; bereavement; loneliness; parenthood; depression or past experiences intruding on your present. Sometimes clients come with a more general sense of unfulfilment or want to know themselves better. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to share your load, rather than carrying it alone. Psychotherapy offers vital connection, support and opportunity to work things through with an empathic, trained professional totally unconnected to your life.
Hello. As an experienced psychotherapist, I can help you manage current life challenges like sudden changes or losses; anxiety; relationship issues; bereavement; loneliness; parenthood; depression or past experiences intruding on your present. Sometimes clients come with a more general sense of unfulfilment or want to know themselves better. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to share your load, rather than carrying it alone. Psychotherapy offers vital connection, support and opportunity to work things through with an empathic, trained professional totally unconnected to your life.
01242 650306 View 01242 650306
Photo of Vicky Jones, BACP, Counsellor
Vicky Jones
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
Every person has individual needs and their life experiences are unique. There are many different reasons people seek counselling support. Issues such as anxiety, low self-esteem, relationships, life events, difficult childhood experiences, loss and bereavement are just a few examples. By offering counselling to adults, children and young people it is my aim to provide empathy and understanding, to empower clients and enable them to grow in confidence to realise and understand that they hold the answers. You are the expert of you.
Every person has individual needs and their life experiences are unique. There are many different reasons people seek counselling support. Issues such as anxiety, low self-esteem, relationships, life events, difficult childhood experiences, loss and bereavement are just a few examples. By offering counselling to adults, children and young people it is my aim to provide empathy and understanding, to empower clients and enable them to grow in confidence to realise and understand that they hold the answers. You are the expert of you.
01452 941752 View 01452 941752
Photo of Sarah Bolton-Locke, DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Sarah Bolton-Locke
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
I have a face to face and online counselling practice based in Cheltenham and Gloucester, offering warm and accepting therapy for adults and children. Having a non-judgmental and safe space will give you the opportunity to explore whatever you may be struggling with.
I have a face to face and online counselling practice based in Cheltenham and Gloucester, offering warm and accepting therapy for adults and children. Having a non-judgmental and safe space will give you the opportunity to explore whatever you may be struggling with.
01452 934579 View 01452 934579
Photo of Sarah Bolton - Essential Space, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Essential Space
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
We are a low-cost counselling service that supports adults, children, and young people living in Gloucestershire. As a community interest company, we provide an inclusive, easy-to-access service, where the fee you pay is an amount that considers your circumstances on a sliding scale between £15.00-£50.00. Deciding to access counselling can be a difficult step. Our waiting times are short, as we are a good-sized team, with only around a week to wait from meeting you arrange the sessions starting.
We are a low-cost counselling service that supports adults, children, and young people living in Gloucestershire. As a community interest company, we provide an inclusive, easy-to-access service, where the fee you pay is an amount that considers your circumstances on a sliding scale between £15.00-£50.00. Deciding to access counselling can be a difficult step. Our waiting times are short, as we are a good-sized team, with only around a week to wait from meeting you arrange the sessions starting.
01452 923126 View 01452 923126
Photo of Mary Crowley, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Mary Crowley
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed or worried? Perhaps your mood has been low for a while and you can't shift that feeling. Has something happened recently, or in the past that's affecting how things are for you today? Sometimes there may be a sense that life is lacking in meaning and direction. Maybe you want to make some changes but feel stuck in negative and destructive patterns of behaviour?
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed or worried? Perhaps your mood has been low for a while and you can't shift that feeling. Has something happened recently, or in the past that's affecting how things are for you today? Sometimes there may be a sense that life is lacking in meaning and direction. Maybe you want to make some changes but feel stuck in negative and destructive patterns of behaviour?
01242 500102 View 01242 500102
Photo of Harvey Lidstone-Lane, MBACP, Counsellor
Harvey Lidstone-Lane
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Hello, my name is Harvey and I am a therapist working in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire and Birmingham. I currently work for Here for you Counselling, a private practice therapeutic service I founded. I have experience working with many different presenting issues, including; depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problems, bereavement, low self-esteem, PTSD, abuse and many more. I have worked with I wide range of clients, however I have particular experience working with young people, aged 18-35. I am able to work in a traditional face-to-face setting or remotely via Skype/Zoom. I offer both 25 minute or 50 minute sessions.
Hello, my name is Harvey and I am a therapist working in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire and Birmingham. I currently work for Here for you Counselling, a private practice therapeutic service I founded. I have experience working with many different presenting issues, including; depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problems, bereavement, low self-esteem, PTSD, abuse and many more. I have worked with I wide range of clients, however I have particular experience working with young people, aged 18-35. I am able to work in a traditional face-to-face setting or remotely via Skype/Zoom. I offer both 25 minute or 50 minute sessions.
020 3958 4304 View 020 3958 4304
Photo of Dr Kirsten Kitson, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Kirsten Kitson
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham GL50
I have worked with many different presentations throughout my career in the NHS, Charity sector and HM Prison service. My experience and training can give you the confidence in my practice as I provide you with an individual approach; tailored to your specific needs and goals. Together we can explore how to improve your situation by equipping you with the necessary skills and techniques to move forward and maintain change.
I have worked with many different presentations throughout my career in the NHS, Charity sector and HM Prison service. My experience and training can give you the confidence in my practice as I provide you with an individual approach; tailored to your specific needs and goals. Together we can explore how to improve your situation by equipping you with the necessary skills and techniques to move forward and maintain change.
01242 474668 View 01242 474668
Photo of Emma johnsey, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Emma johnsey
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
Hello, my name is Emma and I have over ten years experience as a counsellor. Contact me if you are looking for a safe person with whom you can explore matters that are important to you, this may include relationships, emotions, thoughts that concern you, or blocks you feel. The focus of our work would be you and your life. You may have goals you wish to achieve or feel hopeless and stuck. Whatever your concerns our work may entail looking at the past or take a solution focused approach.
Hello, my name is Emma and I have over ten years experience as a counsellor. Contact me if you are looking for a safe person with whom you can explore matters that are important to you, this may include relationships, emotions, thoughts that concern you, or blocks you feel. The focus of our work would be you and your life. You may have goals you wish to achieve or feel hopeless and stuck. Whatever your concerns our work may entail looking at the past or take a solution focused approach.
01452 227966 View 01452 227966
1

See more therapy options for Cheltenham

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.