Sexual Abuse Counselling in Exeter

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 Amanda Jane Quick, MBACP, Counsellor
Amanda Jane Quick
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
I have an interest and experience in supporting those who have had unwanted sexual experiences, sexual abuse, rape and or any type of relationship abuse, I support individuals who are selling sex, want to reduce or leave selling sex.
Choosing a therapist can be daunting, especially when you may be feeling anxious, depressed, confused, or at a low point. Maybe you're thinking how can anyone understand. If you’ve had no experience of working with a counsellor, or previous counseling wasn't what you expected or were ready to continue, I understand this can be difficult. I work with the complexity and difficulty of trauma which ranges from person to person.
I have an interest and experience in supporting those who have had unwanted sexual experiences, sexual abuse, rape and or any type of relationship abuse, I support individuals who are selling sex, want to reduce or leave selling sex.
Choosing a therapist can be daunting, especially when you may be feeling anxious, depressed, confused, or at a low point. Maybe you're thinking how can anyone understand. If you’ve had no experience of working with a counsellor, or previous counseling wasn't what you expected or were ready to continue, I understand this can be difficult. I work with the complexity and difficulty of trauma which ranges from person to person.
01572 492206 View 01572 492206
Photo of Loraine (Lori) Donohue, BACP, Counsellor
Loraine (Lori) Donohue
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX6  (Online Only)
Sexual abuse.
Are you stuck? Do you want to understand yourself better, and live the best life you can? I believe we all have this potential but sometimes we need some guidance and support. I will listen with empathy, and challenge you at times. All with compassion and non-judgment. Take the first step, you will not regret it.
Sexual abuse.
Are you stuck? Do you want to understand yourself better, and live the best life you can? I believe we all have this potential but sometimes we need some guidance and support. I will listen with empathy, and challenge you at times. All with compassion and non-judgment. Take the first step, you will not regret it.
01392 321854 View 01392 321854
Photo of Jade Flowers, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Jade Flowers
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
If you're currently navigating through anxiety, depression, anger management, the aftermath of a painful breakup, grief, trauma, domestic violence, sexual or physical assault, emotional abuse, or any other personal struggle, I want you to know that I'm here to offer my heartfelt support. It's completely understandable if you yearn for a profound change in your life—a transformation that encompasses your relationships, thoughts, and behaviours. While the path ahead may feel overwhelming, I want you to remember that together we can break down these challenges into smaller, more manageable pieces.
If you're currently navigating through anxiety, depression, anger management, the aftermath of a painful breakup, grief, trauma, domestic violence, sexual or physical assault, emotional abuse, or any other personal struggle, I want you to know that I'm here to offer my heartfelt support. It's completely understandable if you yearn for a profound change in your life—a transformation that encompasses your relationships, thoughts, and behaviours. While the path ahead may feel overwhelming, I want you to remember that together we can break down these challenges into smaller, more manageable pieces.
01392 321950 View 01392 321950
Photo of Jane Meares, MBACP, Counsellor
Jane Meares
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
I support adults affected by low self esteem, anxiety, depression, or grief, often those who have experienced the death of a loved one, a major life transition or trauma, or childhood sexual abuse.
Do you put on a brave face but feel different on the inside? Perhaps you’re empty and numb, or overwhelmed by emotions? Are you finding it hard to cope day-to-day? I know how tough life can be at times and how lonely it feels when no one seems to understand. If you’re wondering when you’ll feel happy or hopeful again, or you’re worrying about the future and fearing the worst, or maybe you’re struggling with a big change and a sense of who you are; I’d like to help. Being able to talk freely to someone, without fear of judgement or shame, can be a huge relief.
I support adults affected by low self esteem, anxiety, depression, or grief, often those who have experienced the death of a loved one, a major life transition or trauma, or childhood sexual abuse.
Do you put on a brave face but feel different on the inside? Perhaps you’re empty and numb, or overwhelmed by emotions? Are you finding it hard to cope day-to-day? I know how tough life can be at times and how lonely it feels when no one seems to understand. If you’re wondering when you’ll feel happy or hopeful again, or you’re worrying about the future and fearing the worst, or maybe you’re struggling with a big change and a sense of who you are; I’d like to help. Being able to talk freely to someone, without fear of judgement or shame, can be a huge relief.
01392 321316 View 01392 321316
Photo of Jo Daley, MBACP, Counsellor
Jo Daley
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
With over ten years experience, I work with people to navigate a wide range of life issues, developing long lasting coping mechanisms for overcoming challenging times. I specialise in relationship issues, family conflict, domestic abuse, childhood trauma, childhood sexual abuse and adult sexual abuse. I incorporate mindfulness, guided meditation, and inner child work to support the exploration, understanding and release of deep-rooted emotions and patterns. My practice is socially conscious, and I am experienced working within diversity.
With over ten years experience, I work with people to navigate a wide range of life issues, developing long lasting coping mechanisms for overcoming challenging times. I specialise in relationship issues, family conflict, domestic abuse, childhood trauma, childhood sexual abuse and adult sexual abuse. I incorporate mindfulness, guided meditation, and inner child work to support the exploration, understanding and release of deep-rooted emotions and patterns. My practice is socially conscious, and I am experienced working within diversity.
01647 401643 View 01647 401643
Photo of Kevin Dudman, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Kevin Dudman
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
Waitlist for new clients
Hello my name is Kevin. I specialise in the treatment of trauma including accidents, medical trauma, work place and childhood bullying, domestic abuse, rape, sexual abuse and traumatic grief. I can also help you with depression, anxiety, worry, low self -esteem, OCD, phobias, body and self esteem issues, chronic pain, porn and Internet addiction. I am an EMDR Consultant and Accredited CBT Psychotherapist with over thirty years’ experience in working in Mental Health within the NHS. Twenty of these have been in senior positions supervising and supporting the clinical practice of a wide range of psychological therapists.
Hello my name is Kevin. I specialise in the treatment of trauma including accidents, medical trauma, work place and childhood bullying, domestic abuse, rape, sexual abuse and traumatic grief. I can also help you with depression, anxiety, worry, low self -esteem, OCD, phobias, body and self esteem issues, chronic pain, porn and Internet addiction. I am an EMDR Consultant and Accredited CBT Psychotherapist with over thirty years’ experience in working in Mental Health within the NHS. Twenty of these have been in senior positions supervising and supporting the clinical practice of a wide range of psychological therapists.
01354 700709 View 01354 700709
Photo of Magda Janaszek, MBACP, Counsellor
Magda Janaszek
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
I work with adults, couples and young people on a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, stress, grief, loss, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, relationship issues, existential crisis and much more.
I am a fully qualified Therapeutic Counsellor and a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) based in Plymouth, Devon, UK. My aim is to provide a respectful, safe, confidential and supportive environment where clients can explore and work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe that each individual has the ability to reach their true potential within safe and non-judgemental space that the therapeutic relationship can offer. I am passionate about helping people to recognise their self-worth and to achieve their goals.
I work with adults, couples and young people on a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, stress, grief, loss, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, relationship issues, existential crisis and much more.
I am a fully qualified Therapeutic Counsellor and a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) based in Plymouth, Devon, UK. My aim is to provide a respectful, safe, confidential and supportive environment where clients can explore and work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe that each individual has the ability to reach their true potential within safe and non-judgemental space that the therapeutic relationship can offer. I am passionate about helping people to recognise their self-worth and to achieve their goals.
07525 755527 View 07525 755527
Photo of Stella Beever, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Stella Beever
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
I welcome issues including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and rape, relationship issues, men's mental health, grief and loss, anything which is making life difficult for you to navigate.
Silence can be difficult... its good to talk. I welcome you in a non-judgmental, safe space to express your fears, worries, and stresses, to disclose issues which may leave you unsure which way to turn. I would like to help you gain some clarity, and work towards effecting change. In the aftermath of significant life-altering events or shocks, counselling can offer you a structured avenue to unravel the complexities of your personal situation. You may have never experienced being truly yourself and voicing aloud what is causing you confusion and pain. Talking issues through with me can be a first step.
I welcome issues including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and rape, relationship issues, men's mental health, grief and loss, anything which is making life difficult for you to navigate.
Silence can be difficult... its good to talk. I welcome you in a non-judgmental, safe space to express your fears, worries, and stresses, to disclose issues which may leave you unsure which way to turn. I would like to help you gain some clarity, and work towards effecting change. In the aftermath of significant life-altering events or shocks, counselling can offer you a structured avenue to unravel the complexities of your personal situation. You may have never experienced being truly yourself and voicing aloud what is causing you confusion and pain. Talking issues through with me can be a first step.
01794 337442 View 01794 337442
Photo of Rebecca Isin, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Rebecca Isin
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
I work with adults and young people and offer both short and long term therapy. Sometimes life’s challenges may feel overwhelming, emotionally exhausting or relentless and we may seek professional support to help us find our way through. Anxiety, depression, feeling lost, lonely, confused or traumatised are some of the many issues people bring. Whilst our personal stories and the reasons for our distress are ultimately as unique as we are, I have found that clients of all ages share a common goal; the desire to gain new perspectives and deeper understandings of themselves and to explore the possibilities and means of change.
I work with adults and young people and offer both short and long term therapy. Sometimes life’s challenges may feel overwhelming, emotionally exhausting or relentless and we may seek professional support to help us find our way through. Anxiety, depression, feeling lost, lonely, confused or traumatised are some of the many issues people bring. Whilst our personal stories and the reasons for our distress are ultimately as unique as we are, I have found that clients of all ages share a common goal; the desire to gain new perspectives and deeper understandings of themselves and to explore the possibilities and means of change.
01392 321939 View 01392 321939
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 Nikki Bailey, MBACP, Counsellor
Nikki Bailey
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
Hi and Welcome, I’m a BACP ​registered counsellor offering short and long-​term therapy to adults aged 18 years plus, either in-person or online. I work with people who are struggling with overwhelming feelings - often anxiety, panic, and low mood - and as a result they are finding life hard. Perhaps you are also feeling stuck in a rut, unable to move forward, and without much calm, peace, joy or meaning in life?
Hi and Welcome, I’m a BACP ​registered counsellor offering short and long-​term therapy to adults aged 18 years plus, either in-person or online. I work with people who are struggling with overwhelming feelings - often anxiety, panic, and low mood - and as a result they are finding life hard. Perhaps you are also feeling stuck in a rut, unable to move forward, and without much calm, peace, joy or meaning in life?
01598 728680 View 01598 728680
Photo of Lucy Glanfield, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Lucy Glanfield
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
Are you looking for someone to truly hear your voice? Perhaps you are seeking an opportunity to reflect on your life and gain insight into the experiences that have brought you to this point. Throughout our journey, it's common to encounter overwhelming feelings of isolation and despair, it's important to remember that you are not alone. I extend a warm invitation to a confidential, trusting, therapeutic relationship, one where I will challenge you to look at yourself and your way being. Together, we can navigate the pathway to discovering the genuine and authentic version of YOU, The YOU that you've been searching for!
Are you looking for someone to truly hear your voice? Perhaps you are seeking an opportunity to reflect on your life and gain insight into the experiences that have brought you to this point. Throughout our journey, it's common to encounter overwhelming feelings of isolation and despair, it's important to remember that you are not alone. I extend a warm invitation to a confidential, trusting, therapeutic relationship, one where I will challenge you to look at yourself and your way being. Together, we can navigate the pathway to discovering the genuine and authentic version of YOU, The YOU that you've been searching for!
01823 589577 View 01823 589577
Photo of Judy Gibbons, MBACP, Counsellor
Judy Gibbons
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX3
I am a qualified and experienced Integrative counsellor and Internal Family Systems therapist, working with adults across a wide range of life's challenges in the Exeter area and on-line. I hope to encourage self-acceptance as a good enough person, quietening the inner critic & bringing self-compassion to the relationship you have with yourself & transforming your relationship with others. Together, we can explore the feelings, thoughts & relational patterns that have been causing you distress. I can support you to gain a deeper understanding of the effects of past experiences & how these may impact your struggles in the present.
I am a qualified and experienced Integrative counsellor and Internal Family Systems therapist, working with adults across a wide range of life's challenges in the Exeter area and on-line. I hope to encourage self-acceptance as a good enough person, quietening the inner critic & bringing self-compassion to the relationship you have with yourself & transforming your relationship with others. Together, we can explore the feelings, thoughts & relational patterns that have been causing you distress. I can support you to gain a deeper understanding of the effects of past experiences & how these may impact your struggles in the present.
01392 549067 View 01392 549067
Photo of Anne-Marie Lorenzo, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Anne-Marie Lorenzo
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
Hi! Welcome to Embark Exeter - Canine Assisted Therapy. You've made a huge leap towards investigating what's troubling you, just be being here - reading this. I see my job as helping you to "unpack" and explore your past and present, and look to the future. I can promise you that I won't judge you, and will treat you with care, sensitivity, compassion and honesty. I have a wealth of lived experiences that have brought me to where I am today, and I am passionate about the empowerment, healing and personal growth that the counselling relationship can bring.
Hi! Welcome to Embark Exeter - Canine Assisted Therapy. You've made a huge leap towards investigating what's troubling you, just be being here - reading this. I see my job as helping you to "unpack" and explore your past and present, and look to the future. I can promise you that I won't judge you, and will treat you with care, sensitivity, compassion and honesty. I have a wealth of lived experiences that have brought me to where I am today, and I am passionate about the empowerment, healing and personal growth that the counselling relationship can bring.
01392 321719 View 01392 321719
Photo of Saskia Layburn, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Saskia Layburn
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
It's natural to feel a little bit hesitant or nervous when looking for someone to talk to. It's a big step.  If you're reading this, you've already made that step into looking into your options. That's something in itself.  When, or if, you feel that you are ready to contact someone. Know that I hold a safe space and a listening ear. My aim? To give you space to put out the fires and create more space for the process of change to begin.
It's natural to feel a little bit hesitant or nervous when looking for someone to talk to. It's a big step.  If you're reading this, you've already made that step into looking into your options. That's something in itself.  When, or if, you feel that you are ready to contact someone. Know that I hold a safe space and a listening ear. My aim? To give you space to put out the fires and create more space for the process of change to begin.
View
Photo of Nicola Grieveson, MBACP, Counsellor
Nicola Grieveson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
If you are looking for someone with many years of professional experience qualified and professional with a kind, compassionate manner I can help. I have experience with diagnosed mental health issues and everyday struggles with relationships, feeling sad, depressed, anxious and pre occupied with worries. Confidential and private in a relaxed atmosphere.
If you are looking for someone with many years of professional experience qualified and professional with a kind, compassionate manner I can help. I have experience with diagnosed mental health issues and everyday struggles with relationships, feeling sad, depressed, anxious and pre occupied with worries. Confidential and private in a relaxed atmosphere.
01392 573743 View 01392 573743
Photo of Charlotte Feeny, MBACP, Counsellor
Charlotte Feeny
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
We can all feel a bit overwhelmed at times: it might be the breakdown of a relationship, loss of a friendship, daily struggles or those horrible feelings of anxiety that just won’t go away. We might be feeling unhappy but we’re not sure why, we might feel life isn’t going the way we want it to whilst everyone else seems to be doing ok. Talking openly and feeling truly heard can be life changing: we can say all those things that keep going round in our heads, the issues that keep coming back time and again, and work towards understanding what’s going on, make changes and find some peace. Isn't that what we all want and deserve?
We can all feel a bit overwhelmed at times: it might be the breakdown of a relationship, loss of a friendship, daily struggles or those horrible feelings of anxiety that just won’t go away. We might be feeling unhappy but we’re not sure why, we might feel life isn’t going the way we want it to whilst everyone else seems to be doing ok. Talking openly and feeling truly heard can be life changing: we can say all those things that keep going round in our heads, the issues that keep coming back time and again, and work towards understanding what’s going on, make changes and find some peace. Isn't that what we all want and deserve?
07480 783785 View 07480 783785
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 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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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.