Chronic Illness Counselling in Exeter

Photo of Shelley Bennett - Mind Body Recovery, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Mind Body Recovery
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX5
If you are looking for someone with a caring warm and down to earth approach then this is what I offer. I have many years of experience supporting and guiding individuals to overcome struggles in their lives, whether it be coping with bereavement to living with chronic illness, insomnia, low self esteem, burnout, relationship issues, anxieties, depression and so forth. There aren’t many issues that I haven’t worked with over the years. I believe I am a particularly good listener and very committed to using all my knowledge and training to help you in your journey as best as I can.
If you are looking for someone with a caring warm and down to earth approach then this is what I offer. I have many years of experience supporting and guiding individuals to overcome struggles in their lives, whether it be coping with bereavement to living with chronic illness, insomnia, low self esteem, burnout, relationship issues, anxieties, depression and so forth. There aren’t many issues that I haven’t worked with over the years. I believe I am a particularly good listener and very committed to using all my knowledge and training to help you in your journey as best as I can.
01392 321730 View 01392 321730
Photo of Dr Rebecca Evans, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist
Dr Rebecca Evans
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX2
Hello, I am Becky a HCPC registered Applied Health Psychologist. I am trained in person-centred care, CBT, CFT, ACT, DBT, systemic and narrative therapy. I have supported people with chronic pain, neurodiversity, weight management, trauma, relationship difficulties and memory difficulties. I am an integrative psychologist, thus I use a range of different models and skills to meet the needs of each individual. I have worked with young children up to older adults. I have seen people individually, in couples or as a family. I have helped clients explore their struggles with anxiety, self-esteem, low-mood, bullying, bereavement, & loss.
Hello, I am Becky a HCPC registered Applied Health Psychologist. I am trained in person-centred care, CBT, CFT, ACT, DBT, systemic and narrative therapy. I have supported people with chronic pain, neurodiversity, weight management, trauma, relationship difficulties and memory difficulties. I am an integrative psychologist, thus I use a range of different models and skills to meet the needs of each individual. I have worked with young children up to older adults. I have seen people individually, in couples or as a family. I have helped clients explore their struggles with anxiety, self-esteem, low-mood, bullying, bereavement, & loss.
01392 321410 View 01392 321410
Photo of Zoe Powell Martin, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Zoe Powell Martin
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX6  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Zoe - it's a pleasure to meet you. I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy. I provide a warm, safe and nurturing space to support you on your therapeutic journey. As a therapist, I am committed to ensure that your therapy sessions are co-constructed to meet your individual therapeutic needs. Benefitting from shared-decision making, a focus on therapeutic direction as well as empathy, support, compassion and attention, you can expect a uniquely inclusive and collaborative therapeutic experience.
Hello, I'm Zoe - it's a pleasure to meet you. I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy. I provide a warm, safe and nurturing space to support you on your therapeutic journey. As a therapist, I am committed to ensure that your therapy sessions are co-constructed to meet your individual therapeutic needs. Benefitting from shared-decision making, a focus on therapeutic direction as well as empathy, support, compassion and attention, you can expect a uniquely inclusive and collaborative therapeutic experience.
01363 722166 View 01363 722166
Photo of Kate Stanton, MBACP, Counsellor
Kate Stanton
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
Hi, and thank you for viewing my profile. Have you experienced infertility, pregnancy loss or other bereavements, leaving you feeling overwhelmed, stuck and wondering how to move? Maybe you are going through a life crisis, or having difficulties in relationships and struggling with difficult and overpowering emotions.. Working with a compassionate, trained therapist who listens without judgement can be a powerful, healing and transformative experience. Together we can find ways that will bring understanding to your experience and ultimately bring relief and peace and a way to move forward with renewed momentum.
Hi, and thank you for viewing my profile. Have you experienced infertility, pregnancy loss or other bereavements, leaving you feeling overwhelmed, stuck and wondering how to move? Maybe you are going through a life crisis, or having difficulties in relationships and struggling with difficult and overpowering emotions.. Working with a compassionate, trained therapist who listens without judgement can be a powerful, healing and transformative experience. Together we can find ways that will bring understanding to your experience and ultimately bring relief and peace and a way to move forward with renewed momentum.
01794 331132 View 01794 331132
Photo of Dr Joanne Crossley, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Joanne Crossley
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
Are you worried about your child’s emotional well-being? ​Are you looking for help and support quickly? I understand how difficult it can be to reach out for support for your child and the importance of being able to access this quickly. I have worked with children and young people experiencing a wide range of emotional and behavioural difficulties such as anxiety, low mood, obsessive-compulsive disorder and difficulties adjusting to and managing physical health conditions. My aim is to help children, young people and their families overcome their challenges and empower them so that they can thrive and flourish.
Are you worried about your child’s emotional well-being? ​Are you looking for help and support quickly? I understand how difficult it can be to reach out for support for your child and the importance of being able to access this quickly. I have worked with children and young people experiencing a wide range of emotional and behavioural difficulties such as anxiety, low mood, obsessive-compulsive disorder and difficulties adjusting to and managing physical health conditions. My aim is to help children, young people and their families overcome their challenges and empower them so that they can thrive and flourish.
01202 125745 View 01202 125745
Photo of Megan Andrews - Picking Up The Pieces, MBACP, Counsellor
Picking Up The Pieces
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
I'm Megan. Life can throw unexpected difficulties in our direction at any time & things can get tough making you feel anxious, fearful, sad, trapped or alone causing you to struggle & feel you cant find your way out-you are alone. Picking Up the Pieces can help you to understand your situation better, together we can find ways forward, enhance choices to regain control & achieve a happier you.
I'm Megan. Life can throw unexpected difficulties in our direction at any time & things can get tough making you feel anxious, fearful, sad, trapped or alone causing you to struggle & feel you cant find your way out-you are alone. Picking Up the Pieces can help you to understand your situation better, together we can find ways forward, enhance choices to regain control & achieve a happier you.
01752 982187 View 01752 982187
Photo of Pippa Vlietstra - Pippa Counselling, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Pippa Counselling
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
My name is Pippa. I'm a compassionate integrative therapist, working with adults aged 18+. You may have a specific issue you want to work through in therapy such as persistent anxiety, relationship challenges, low self esteem or navigating a life change such as divorce. Or perhaps you have a persistent sense of something being wrong and feel that talking confidentially to a therapist may help. Whatever your reason, reaching out is the first step to changing patterns of behaviour that may be holding you back, with knowledge and tools to gain a sense of purpose, self compassion and start to feel more in control of your life.
My name is Pippa. I'm a compassionate integrative therapist, working with adults aged 18+. You may have a specific issue you want to work through in therapy such as persistent anxiety, relationship challenges, low self esteem or navigating a life change such as divorce. Or perhaps you have a persistent sense of something being wrong and feel that talking confidentially to a therapist may help. Whatever your reason, reaching out is the first step to changing patterns of behaviour that may be holding you back, with knowledge and tools to gain a sense of purpose, self compassion and start to feel more in control of your life.
01392 321634 View 01392 321634
Photo of Dr Craig Newman, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Craig Newman
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX5  (Online Only)
I have over 25 years of experience in supporting people to both recovery and to feel empowered in managing their own wellbeing, beyond therapy. If you are struggling with mental health, physical health and/or difficult relationships (including abusive), I can offer support based on years of experience. What makes me unique is that I blend Therapy and Coaching approaches, being qualified at the level of a Dr in both domains (Chartered Clinical and Coaching Psychologist) - this means I can shift to support healing or empowering life change, based on your needs.
I have over 25 years of experience in supporting people to both recovery and to feel empowered in managing their own wellbeing, beyond therapy. If you are struggling with mental health, physical health and/or difficult relationships (including abusive), I can offer support based on years of experience. What makes me unique is that I blend Therapy and Coaching approaches, being qualified at the level of a Dr in both domains (Chartered Clinical and Coaching Psychologist) - this means I can shift to support healing or empowering life change, based on your needs.
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Photo of Nikki Frankum, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Nikki Frankum
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
My name is Nikki, I am a qualified integrative counsellor registered with the NCS. I understand how difficult life can seem, and how stuck we can become. I am a compassionate, caring therapist who will not judge you. Whatever feelings or circumstances bring you to therapy, I offer you a calm, safe and non- judgmental space where I will encourage you to let go of unhelpful ways of being, that may be holding you back. As an integrative counsellor I will draw on different theoretical approaches choosing techniques to suit your individual needs.
My name is Nikki, I am a qualified integrative counsellor registered with the NCS. I understand how difficult life can seem, and how stuck we can become. I am a compassionate, caring therapist who will not judge you. Whatever feelings or circumstances bring you to therapy, I offer you a calm, safe and non- judgmental space where I will encourage you to let go of unhelpful ways of being, that may be holding you back. As an integrative counsellor I will draw on different theoretical approaches choosing techniques to suit your individual needs.
01392 321499 View 01392 321499
Photo of Nicola Dunn, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Nicola Dunn
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
Hi, I’m Nic. I’m calm, empathic and non-judgemental, and I provide a friendly, confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours in the safety of the counselling relationship. We’ll gently explore what brings you to counselling; this can be any issues, past or present, however big or small they may feel. I’m here to listen, without judgement, and together we’ll work through these issues to help you to understand and accept yourself, and find a way to move forwards. You may not be sure what you want from counselling, and this is something we can work through together.
Hi, I’m Nic. I’m calm, empathic and non-judgemental, and I provide a friendly, confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours in the safety of the counselling relationship. We’ll gently explore what brings you to counselling; this can be any issues, past or present, however big or small they may feel. I’m here to listen, without judgement, and together we’ll work through these issues to help you to understand and accept yourself, and find a way to move forwards. You may not be sure what you want from counselling, and this is something we can work through together.
01392 321633 View 01392 321633
Photo of Catherine Roguski, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Catherine Roguski
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX3
I work ONLINE and Face-to-Face in Topsham. I have over 40 years experience working effectively in private practice as an integrative holistic healthcare practitioner and previously as a nurse in both the NHS and private healthcare specialising in women’s health. My psychotherapeutic counselling practice draws upon several humanistic, psychodynamic and solution focused approaches incorporating the very best techniques including creative ways of working to best fit your needs. I have a lot of life experience both personally and professionally. I am a good listener. I am not easily shocked.
I work ONLINE and Face-to-Face in Topsham. I have over 40 years experience working effectively in private practice as an integrative holistic healthcare practitioner and previously as a nurse in both the NHS and private healthcare specialising in women’s health. My psychotherapeutic counselling practice draws upon several humanistic, psychodynamic and solution focused approaches incorporating the very best techniques including creative ways of working to best fit your needs. I have a lot of life experience both personally and professionally. I am a good listener. I am not easily shocked.
01392 549042 View 01392 549042
Photo of Sharon Letten - Sharon Letten Counselling, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Sharon Letten Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
Through my lived experience & training (ADHD, trauma, loss, menopause & attachment issues), I understand how difficult it is to reach out. I use a relational approach - helping to meet your individual & couple needs. I will work alongside you, helping you to navigate your way through life's challenges. Perhaps you just want to talk in a safe environment or need support to make changes? I work holistically with adults, teens & couples in a caring and non-judgmental way, covering a range of issues which can significantly impact on our relationships with ourselves and others - working towards meaning and reconnection.
Through my lived experience & training (ADHD, trauma, loss, menopause & attachment issues), I understand how difficult it is to reach out. I use a relational approach - helping to meet your individual & couple needs. I will work alongside you, helping you to navigate your way through life's challenges. Perhaps you just want to talk in a safe environment or need support to make changes? I work holistically with adults, teens & couples in a caring and non-judgmental way, covering a range of issues which can significantly impact on our relationships with ourselves and others - working towards meaning and reconnection.
01392 321450 View 01392 321450
Photo of Renee Norris - Renee Norris Counselling, 1-2-1, Couples & 13+, MBACP, Counsellor
Renee Norris Counselling, 1-2-1, Couples & 13+
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX5
Clients generally come to me when they are struggling with some aspect of their emotions, thoughts or behaviour. My aim is to help my client with accepting or changing some aspect of these three areas. Every client comes with unique issues and from my seat I view the issues as one, "a block in the road to wellness". I am keenly aware that all clients come with individual goals and I am here to help. Many of my clients use the phrase “I just want to feel better". This is my hope for everyone who engages with me in therapy. “TO FEEL BETTER” I offer confidentiality, openness and transparency at all times.
Clients generally come to me when they are struggling with some aspect of their emotions, thoughts or behaviour. My aim is to help my client with accepting or changing some aspect of these three areas. Every client comes with unique issues and from my seat I view the issues as one, "a block in the road to wellness". I am keenly aware that all clients come with individual goals and I am here to help. Many of my clients use the phrase “I just want to feel better". This is my hope for everyone who engages with me in therapy. “TO FEEL BETTER” I offer confidentiality, openness and transparency at all times.
01392 531578 View 01392 531578
Photo of Antonella Depetro, MBACP, Counsellor
Antonella Depetro
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
Welcome. My name is Antonella and I'm an experienced and dedicated counsellor working with both adults and young people. I support people who are going through all kinds of struggles and challenges. Clients I have worked with have told me that for the first time they were able to talk and express their feelings and thoughts about themselves and life as they felt safe and comfortable. I offer a safe and confidential space where you are free to explore yourself and your concerns, and discover your inner resources at your own pace. I will genuinely listen, be with you and accept you for who you are without judgement.
Welcome. My name is Antonella and I'm an experienced and dedicated counsellor working with both adults and young people. I support people who are going through all kinds of struggles and challenges. Clients I have worked with have told me that for the first time they were able to talk and express their feelings and thoughts about themselves and life as they felt safe and comfortable. I offer a safe and confidential space where you are free to explore yourself and your concerns, and discover your inner resources at your own pace. I will genuinely listen, be with you and accept you for who you are without judgement.
01392 321204 View 01392 321204
Photo of Annie Ford, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Annie Ford
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Exeter EX5
It takes courage to contact a Counsellor for the first time, are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed, need to make sense or gain clarity of your personal issues. As an experienced Professional Counsellor, I provide a safe, non-judgemental and confidential space. A place to explore the changes "you want". Building resilience and strategies to cope with relationships or home or work issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement, low self-esteem, bullying, or stressful health challenges. Short & long-term therapy 9am -7pm + Sat mornings. A calm comfortable garden studio for face to face, online or outdoor work.
It takes courage to contact a Counsellor for the first time, are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed, need to make sense or gain clarity of your personal issues. As an experienced Professional Counsellor, I provide a safe, non-judgemental and confidential space. A place to explore the changes "you want". Building resilience and strategies to cope with relationships or home or work issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement, low self-esteem, bullying, or stressful health challenges. Short & long-term therapy 9am -7pm + Sat mornings. A calm comfortable garden studio for face to face, online or outdoor work.
07584 336873 View 07584 336873
Photo of Maria Alda Gomez Otero, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Maria Alda Gomez Otero
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
If you are struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, or an inner restlessness you can't seem to quiet, you might be facing the effects of past traumas, including sexual abuse, childhood neglect, or early attachment issues, as well as transgenerational, collective or pre-birth trauma, that ripple through your everyday life. If your goal is profound healing — to finally feel at ease within your own skin and to unlock the potential that lives in you, you have taken the first step into building a new version of yourself.
If you are struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, or an inner restlessness you can't seem to quiet, you might be facing the effects of past traumas, including sexual abuse, childhood neglect, or early attachment issues, as well as transgenerational, collective or pre-birth trauma, that ripple through your everyday life. If your goal is profound healing — to finally feel at ease within your own skin and to unlock the potential that lives in you, you have taken the first step into building a new version of yourself.
01392 573776 View 01392 573776
Photo of Roberta Hutchins, MHGI, Psychotherapist
Roberta Hutchins
Psychotherapist, MHGI
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
Roberta Hutchins has over 15 years’ experience in private practice as an integrated holistic healthcare practitioner in Devon. Roberta’s many years’ experience of working effectively with people with diverse health problems in a variety of ways have provided a strong foundation for her Human Givens Psychotherapy practice. People suffering from anxiety, depression, and many health problems related to stress, have formed the backbone of her practice. It is often the case that resolving life difficulties, getting needs met and focusing on psychological wellbeing are the keys to getting back on track with life and feeling well again.
Roberta Hutchins has over 15 years’ experience in private practice as an integrated holistic healthcare practitioner in Devon. Roberta’s many years’ experience of working effectively with people with diverse health problems in a variety of ways have provided a strong foundation for her Human Givens Psychotherapy practice. People suffering from anxiety, depression, and many health problems related to stress, have formed the backbone of her practice. It is often the case that resolving life difficulties, getting needs met and focusing on psychological wellbeing are the keys to getting back on track with life and feeling well again.
01392 549072 View 01392 549072
Photo of Rachel Coles, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Rachel Coles
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX5
I have a particular interest & experience in working with Eating Disorders & Disordered Eating difficulties. As a Family Therapist, I have worked with a wide range of mental health difficulties, including using Attachment Narrative Therapy; working with attachment difficulties; depression; anxiety; self harm; emotional regulation; communication difficulties & trauma. I’m trained to work with individuals, couples & families across the age range. It’s a privilege to support & empower families & individuals in understanding their lives experiences, improving their relationships, mental health & well-being.
I have a particular interest & experience in working with Eating Disorders & Disordered Eating difficulties. As a Family Therapist, I have worked with a wide range of mental health difficulties, including using Attachment Narrative Therapy; working with attachment difficulties; depression; anxiety; self harm; emotional regulation; communication difficulties & trauma. I’m trained to work with individuals, couples & families across the age range. It’s a privilege to support & empower families & individuals in understanding their lives experiences, improving their relationships, mental health & well-being.
01392 321753 View 01392 321753
Photo of George Petrou, MBACP, Counsellor
George Petrou
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
I'm a relational integrative therapist meaning, the relationship is the therapy. It also means I use different types of therapy to meet your needs because, you are unique. Integrative therapy helps you become a more integrated whole person, better able to experience the entire range of your behaviour, emotions and thoughts as well as improving your relationship with yourself and others. Neuroplasticity continues throughout the lifespan which means that change and improvement in the way we feel is always possible and therapy is the best way to achieve this.
I'm a relational integrative therapist meaning, the relationship is the therapy. It also means I use different types of therapy to meet your needs because, you are unique. Integrative therapy helps you become a more integrated whole person, better able to experience the entire range of your behaviour, emotions and thoughts as well as improving your relationship with yourself and others. Neuroplasticity continues throughout the lifespan which means that change and improvement in the way we feel is always possible and therapy is the best way to achieve this.
01392 321107 View 01392 321107
Photo of Paula Bowen-Scott, MBACP, Counsellor
Paula Bowen-Scott
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
I work mainly with adults from all walks of life, all looking to find a more meaningful and fulfilling way of living. Whatever your issues are, together we will explore why you are feeling this way, and work towards change. We will look at what has led to your current issues and what it is you are looking for in order to create those changes. I have a lot of experience working not only face to face but also online and via phone. There is always a choice of a better way of feeling but we sometimes get stuck and unable to find a way forward alone. I can help you to untangle how you are feeling and clear the way for a new path.
I work mainly with adults from all walks of life, all looking to find a more meaningful and fulfilling way of living. Whatever your issues are, together we will explore why you are feeling this way, and work towards change. We will look at what has led to your current issues and what it is you are looking for in order to create those changes. I have a lot of experience working not only face to face but also online and via phone. There is always a choice of a better way of feeling but we sometimes get stuck and unable to find a way forward alone. I can help you to untangle how you are feeling and clear the way for a new path.
01392 719726 View 01392 719726
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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.