Sexual Abuse Counselling in Topsham

Photo of Catherine Roguski, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Catherine Roguski
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Topsham 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 Philippa Joy Goddard, MBACP, Counsellor
Philippa Joy Goddard
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Topsham EX3
I believe that life is a gift; yet, at times, it can feel quite the opposite. Sometimes, we can feel overwhelmed by our difficulties. ​Often, a trained, non-judgmental and objective ear can help order one's thoughts, challenge ingrained patterns of behaviour, and manage emotions. 
I believe that life is a gift; yet, at times, it can feel quite the opposite. Sometimes, we can feel overwhelmed by our difficulties. ​Often, a trained, non-judgmental and objective ear can help order one's thoughts, challenge ingrained patterns of behaviour, and manage emotions. 
01572 498987 View 01572 498987
Photo of Judy Gibbons, MBACP, Counsellor
Judy Gibbons
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Topsham 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
Topsham EX3
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 Katherine dayman, DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Katherine dayman
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Topsham EX3
I am a down to earth, straight talking counsellor and supervisor, with many years experience working with bereavement, loss and trauma. I offer both short term, goal focussed work, as well as longer term therapy, depending on your needs. I have a keen interest in working with those who are neurodiverse, as well as supporting those who live with someone who is neurodiverse. As a supervisor, I will work collaboratively with you to explore all aspects of working as a practitioner to support your continuing, ongoing development.
I am a down to earth, straight talking counsellor and supervisor, with many years experience working with bereavement, loss and trauma. I offer both short term, goal focussed work, as well as longer term therapy, depending on your needs. I have a keen interest in working with those who are neurodiverse, as well as supporting those who live with someone who is neurodiverse. As a supervisor, I will work collaboratively with you to explore all aspects of working as a practitioner to support your continuing, ongoing development.
01392 321846 View 01392 321846
Photo of Kate Haskell, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Kate Haskell
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Topsham EX3
"Having space to talk about how I feel is a waste of time"... said: No one ever! Counselling is all it is cracked up to be. Maybe you want to talk to someone but feel unable to share with family or friends. Perhaps you want to make sense of the feelings you are experiencing. People start to heal when they feel truly heard and, by talking things over with a qualified and professional counsellor, it could help you heal from past or present trauma. My approach is Person Centred Therapy and my style is relaxed and friendly. You talk, I listen and together we find a new way of being.
"Having space to talk about how I feel is a waste of time"... said: No one ever! Counselling is all it is cracked up to be. Maybe you want to talk to someone but feel unable to share with family or friends. Perhaps you want to make sense of the feelings you are experiencing. People start to heal when they feel truly heard and, by talking things over with a qualified and professional counsellor, it could help you heal from past or present trauma. My approach is Person Centred Therapy and my style is relaxed and friendly. You talk, I listen and together we find a new way of being.
01392 321635 View 01392 321635

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maria Alda Gomez Otero, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Maria Alda Gomez Otero
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Exeter EX2  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
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 creative potential that lives in you, you have taken the first step into building a more authentic 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 creative potential that lives in you, you have taken the first step into building a more authentic version of yourself.
01392 573776 View 01392 573776
Photo of Jo Daley, MBACP, Counsellor
Jo Daley
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exton EX3
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, adult sexual abuse, discrimination and prejudice. I tailor your support to enable the exploration, understanding and release of deep-rooted emotions and patterns. I'm experienced supporting people living with PTSD, CPTSD, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
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, adult sexual abuse, discrimination and prejudice. I tailor your support to enable the exploration, understanding and release of deep-rooted emotions and patterns. I'm experienced supporting people living with PTSD, CPTSD, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
01647 401643 View 01647 401643
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 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 EX2
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. Feeling seen and truly heard, and accepted for who you are is liberating.
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. Feeling seen and truly heard, and accepted for who you are is liberating.
01392 321316 View 01392 321316
Photo of Heather Beveridge, MSc, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Heather Beveridge
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX2
Is your life overwhelming? Is your mental health suffering?Do you feel that you need to offload and share whatever difficulties you may be facing? Are you are looking for a counsellor or psychotherapist that actively listens and understands? I am an experienced mental health practitioners and here to help. Sometimes children and young people get stuck and need a little help too. I also have a great deal of experience working with children and young people. When your child is struggling, trying to get help can feel an impossible task. I offer creative therapy without the stress of a long waiting list.
Is your life overwhelming? Is your mental health suffering?Do you feel that you need to offload and share whatever difficulties you may be facing? Are you are looking for a counsellor or psychotherapist that actively listens and understands? I am an experienced mental health practitioners and here to help. Sometimes children and young people get stuck and need a little help too. I also have a great deal of experience working with children and young people. When your child is struggling, trying to get help can feel an impossible task. I offer creative therapy without the stress of a long waiting list.
01392 321603 View 01392 321603
Photo of Agnieszka Agnes Zalewska - Agnieszka (Agnes) Zalewska, Psychoanalysis, MA, BPC, Psychotherapist
Agnieszka (Agnes) Zalewska, Psychoanalysis
Psychotherapist, MA, BPC
Verified Verified
Exeter EX2
I am accredited psychoanalytic psychotherapist, training psychoanalytic psychotherapist approved by the leading providers of training in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy, and a supervisor. I offer a non-judgmental space to talk and think, for how long it is needed, with the minimum frequency of 1-3 sessions per week.
I am accredited psychoanalytic psychotherapist, training psychoanalytic psychotherapist approved by the leading providers of training in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy, and a supervisor. I offer a non-judgmental space to talk and think, for how long it is needed, with the minimum frequency of 1-3 sessions per week.
01392 719348 View 01392 719348
Photo of Antonella Depetro, MBACP, Counsellor
Antonella Depetro
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Exeter EX2
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 Dr Rochelle Woollacott, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Rochelle Woollacott
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX2  (Online Only)
People come to therapy for many different and important reasons. For some it is to discuss difficult and emotional experiences, while for others its to have a space in their week to reflect and make time to check-in with themselves. I ask all my clients to come with an open-mind as therapy can take you on a journey of self-discovery. I have worked with many clients with varying degrees of personal difficulties; severe and mild distress including depression, anxiety, suicide, low-self-esteem, earlier life trauma, PTSD, relational difficulties and many more.
People come to therapy for many different and important reasons. For some it is to discuss difficult and emotional experiences, while for others its to have a space in their week to reflect and make time to check-in with themselves. I ask all my clients to come with an open-mind as therapy can take you on a journey of self-discovery. I have worked with many clients with varying degrees of personal difficulties; severe and mild distress including depression, anxiety, suicide, low-self-esteem, earlier life trauma, PTSD, relational difficulties and many more.
01837 516734 View 01837 516734
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 Claire Cook (Willingham), DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Claire Cook (Willingham)
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
Hello.... I am an experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist (MBACP) based in Newton Abbot, Devon. Counselling is not only helpful for traumatic life events, it can also help when you are at a crossroads, feeling stuck or having a huge sense that life is not what it could be. I like to encourage my clients to explore their issues and work towards a better understanding of themselves and the world around them. Together we will look at finding your inner strengths so that you can build in them developing a greater self awareness. However, FINDING THE RIGHT PERON IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT OF THERAPY.
Hello.... I am an experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist (MBACP) based in Newton Abbot, Devon. Counselling is not only helpful for traumatic life events, it can also help when you are at a crossroads, feeling stuck or having a huge sense that life is not what it could be. I like to encourage my clients to explore their issues and work towards a better understanding of themselves and the world around them. Together we will look at finding your inner strengths so that you can build in them developing a greater self awareness. However, FINDING THE RIGHT PERON IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT OF THERAPY.
01626 249147 View 01626 249147
Photo of Nicola Grieveson, MBACP, Counsellor
Nicola Grieveson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX2
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 Lou Stacey - Lou Stacey Counselling and Clinical Supervision, BACP, Counsellor
Lou Stacey Counselling and Clinical Supervision
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX6
Hello. My name is Lou. I would like to support you. If you are feeling vulnerable or are in need of some help; maybe things are no longer in your control, than please get in touch. Not being able to trust or understand your own thoughts and feelings, yet finding yourself stuck in them, can be very overwhelming and I would like to support and help you find some peace and calm, so you can re-connect to yourself and your world around you again without so much pain, fear or sadness. I am available face to face in Exminster, as well as Telephone or Online via Zoom. Email me for further details or visit my website.
Hello. My name is Lou. I would like to support you. If you are feeling vulnerable or are in need of some help; maybe things are no longer in your control, than please get in touch. Not being able to trust or understand your own thoughts and feelings, yet finding yourself stuck in them, can be very overwhelming and I would like to support and help you find some peace and calm, so you can re-connect to yourself and your world around you again without so much pain, fear or sadness. I am available face to face in Exminster, as well as Telephone or Online via Zoom. Email me for further details or visit my website.
01392 573839 View 01392 573839
Photo of Bernadette Kavanagh, BACP, Counsellor
Bernadette Kavanagh
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
I am an experienced registered counsellor. I offer a warm, calm, confidential and non judgmental space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings. I work with a range of issues with both males, females and couples. I also work at The Safe Foundation as Clinical Lead. I specialise with clients, both male and female who have been through domestic abuse and Trauma.
I am an experienced registered counsellor. I offer a warm, calm, confidential and non judgmental space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings. I work with a range of issues with both males, females and couples. I also work at The Safe Foundation as Clinical Lead. I specialise with clients, both male and female who have been through domestic abuse and Trauma.
01392 531580 View 01392 531580

See more therapy options for Topsham

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.