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 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 Vanessa Johnson - Vanessa Johnson Therapy, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Vanessa Johnson Therapy
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
Life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I’m here to offer a safe, comfortable confidential space where you can explore your feelings without judgment. Reaching out can be daunting, but I aim to make the process as easy and supportive as possible. Together, we’ll work toward your therapy goals, with trust, openness, and even a bit of humour—therapy doesn’t always have to be serious! I specialize in helping with relationship issues, domestic abuse, trauma, and sexual abuse (both childhood and adult).
Life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I’m here to offer a safe, comfortable confidential space where you can explore your feelings without judgment. Reaching out can be daunting, but I aim to make the process as easy and supportive as possible. Together, we’ll work toward your therapy goals, with trust, openness, and even a bit of humour—therapy doesn’t always have to be serious! I specialize in helping with relationship issues, domestic abuse, trauma, and sexual abuse (both childhood and adult).
01392 321305 View 01392 321305
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. I have two offices in Exeter.
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. I have two offices in Exeter.
01392 321950 View 01392 321950
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 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
Through exploring how your life may be impacted by anxiety, depression, fear, anger, overthinking or burnout, we’ll work together developing lasting supportive ways to overcome challenging times. I specialise in relationship issues, family conflict, domestic abuse, childhood trauma, childhood sexual abuse and adult sexual abuse. I tailor your support to enable the exploration, understanding and release of deep-rooted emotions and patterns. I am a BACP registered Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, NLP Practitioner and coach, with almost twenty years experience working in a supportive role with people.
Through exploring how your life may be impacted by anxiety, depression, fear, anger, overthinking or burnout, we’ll work together developing lasting supportive ways to overcome challenging times. I specialise in relationship issues, family conflict, domestic abuse, childhood trauma, childhood sexual abuse and adult sexual abuse. I tailor your support to enable the exploration, understanding and release of deep-rooted emotions and patterns. I am a BACP registered Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, NLP Practitioner and coach, with almost twenty years experience working in a supportive role with people.
01647 401643 View 01647 401643
Photo of Rosalind Coon, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Rosalind Coon
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
Many people who have experienced trauma (eg road traffic accidents, traumatic bereavement, job or serious financial loss, physical and sexual abuse) find EMDR to be particularly effective.
As a clinical psychologist I work with adults, children, adolescents, and families to address a variety of psychological difficulties. With over 25 years experience, I am skilled in a variety of psychological interventions, drawing on different approaches as appropriate. I work with adults experiencing a variety of difficulties from depression and anxiety to loss and relationship issues. I am particularly interested in working with children and adolescents: whether working with anxiety, self harm, poor self esteem or family conflict, I aim to help parents and children feel supported, and to foster loving family relationships.
Many people who have experienced trauma (eg road traffic accidents, traumatic bereavement, job or serious financial loss, physical and sexual abuse) find EMDR to be particularly effective.
As a clinical psychologist I work with adults, children, adolescents, and families to address a variety of psychological difficulties. With over 25 years experience, I am skilled in a variety of psychological interventions, drawing on different approaches as appropriate. I work with adults experiencing a variety of difficulties from depression and anxiety to loss and relationship issues. I am particularly interested in working with children and adolescents: whether working with anxiety, self harm, poor self esteem or family conflict, I aim to help parents and children feel supported, and to foster loving family relationships.
07970 796870 View 07970 796870
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
2 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 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 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 Nikki Bailey, MBACP, Counsellor
Nikki Bailey
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
Waitlist for new clients
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 an experienced, accredited therapist who will listen to you and meet you with a compassionate, down to earth approach? I extend a warm invitation to a confidential, trusting, therapeutic relationship, one where I will challenge you to look at yourself and your way of being, either as an individual or as a couple who need help communicating. Whatever it is that has brought you to this point, whether you are struggling with anxiety, grief, depression or relationships, together we can start to help you process this past experience and work on building your self awareness to help you make the right changes.
Are you looking for an experienced, accredited therapist who will listen to you and meet you with a compassionate, down to earth approach? I extend a warm invitation to a confidential, trusting, therapeutic relationship, one where I will challenge you to look at yourself and your way of being, either as an individual or as a couple who need help communicating. Whatever it is that has brought you to this point, whether you are struggling with anxiety, grief, depression or relationships, together we can start to help you process this past experience and work on building your self awareness to help you make the right changes.
01823 589577 View 01823 589577
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 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 Lucy Perkins - Lucy Perkins Counselling, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Lucy Perkins Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
A very warm welcome to you. I work with a person centred approach, ensuring our sessions feel right for you as a unique individual. My style of counselling is non-directive, relaxed and inclusive, which means our work together is designed around what you want and need. The work is supportive and respectful as we go at your pace and my aim is to get alongside you on your path, helping you explore your world to find understanding, clarity or solution. Sessions are centered around you and how you experience yourself and the world around you. You are free to come as you are and be accepted, as you are.
A very warm welcome to you. I work with a person centred approach, ensuring our sessions feel right for you as a unique individual. My style of counselling is non-directive, relaxed and inclusive, which means our work together is designed around what you want and need. The work is supportive and respectful as we go at your pace and my aim is to get alongside you on your path, helping you explore your world to find understanding, clarity or solution. Sessions are centered around you and how you experience yourself and the world around you. You are free to come as you are and be accepted, as you are.
01392 690513 View 01392 690513
Photo of James Yates, MBACP, Psychotherapist
James Yates
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
What does it mean to be yourself in a society that discourages self-expression? To live in a world that disconnects us from each other and from ourselves. A world that distracts us from what’s important and meaningful. The messages we receive from people is not ‘be who you are’, but instead ‘be what I need’. In such a place, being ourselves is a revolutionary act. In what ways are people telling us to be what they need? I’m glad you asked. It can be as simple as a raised eyebrow, or a disparaging look. Or more obvious do’s and don’ts. We get the message.
What does it mean to be yourself in a society that discourages self-expression? To live in a world that disconnects us from each other and from ourselves. A world that distracts us from what’s important and meaningful. The messages we receive from people is not ‘be who you are’, but instead ‘be what I need’. In such a place, being ourselves is a revolutionary act. In what ways are people telling us to be what they need? I’m glad you asked. It can be as simple as a raised eyebrow, or a disparaging look. Or more obvious do’s and don’ts. We get the message.
01392 321330 View 01392 321330
Photo of Nikki Frankum, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Nikki Frankum
Counsellor, 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
1

See more therapy options for Exeter

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.