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  • Depression and the real kicker

    Depression and the real kicker

    As a clinical psychologist, I often meet people with depressive symptoms, low mood or diagnosed depression.

     

    I also meet people who, through medication or time, have beaten depression.

    Still, the one thing these two groups can often have in common is GUILT.

    Often guilty thoughts/feelings/beliefs are formed in depression and are about issues with some truth. For example, a depressed parent may feel guilt about their effect upon their children.

    The guilt is considered logical‚(What parent doesn’t feel some anxiety about their parenting?)

    But the depression makes the blame 100% terrible.
    As a result, in many of these people, the low mood is bad, but the guilt is worse.

    Once the mood lifts, through medication or time, the guilt remains.

    Guilt is a belief made of words or experience and remains unchallenged.
    It does not respond to medication, and it can withstand time.
    What To Do.

    Know it for what it is

    Unrealistic/overblown guilt formed in depression.

    Consider if you have developed a style of thinking that encourages guilt.
    Remember, just because I think it, it doesn’t mean it’s true.

    Challenge it.

    • Are my thoughts factual, or are they just my interpretations?
    • Am I jumping to negative conclusions?
    • How can I find out if my thoughts are actually true?
    • Is this situation as bad as I am making it out to be?
    • Would other people/(someone in particular) think the same way?
    • Will this matter in five days/weeks/months/years?
    • What can I do that will help me solve the problem?
    • Cognitive therapies are very helpful in dealing with guilt and can often provide long-term skills & benefits very quickly.

    On a broader note, other holistic therapies, such as massage, can produce a sense of well-being, pleasure and calm, which is often missing when feeling low.

    For more information or to contact Dr Kalmus by telephoning The Devon Clinic on 01803 500300

    Dr Ellis Kalmus BA(Hons) ClinPsyD, CPsychol, AFBPsS
    Clinical Psychologist

  • Spotting depression in young children

    Spotting depression in young children

    As a parent, your child is your main priority and making sure they are okay.  It can be hard to know if your young child is struggling. We have a worldwide concern about depression and suicide in young people, but what we need to be aware of is that it isn’t only young adults or teenagers that are suffering as young children can also experience this; the signs are just more difficult to read. Facts show that as many as 2 per cent to 3 per cent of children the ages 6 to 12 can suffer from serious depression. Having depression is equally common in girls and boys, though among adolescents, it is twice as common with girls. This leading to last for most of their adult life.

     

    What to look for 

    When becoming aware of depression with your young child, the initial thing to look for is irritableness rather than actively seeming sad. The child may not completely understand what they are feeling, so this can come across as cranky.  So the adult needs to look for signs, look into what the child says, act, or even stop doing. Recognise the significant changes in functioning. This might mean that the child is losing interest in the toys, jokes or rituals that used to be fun. Look out for tiring easily, loose of appetites and just overall seeming flattened. Ensure you get information from the school if applicable; teachers may pick up on things parents may not always recognise.

    Alongside this, we may look at our child acting up as behavioural problems if they have daily tantrums etc. However, it is really driven by how the kid is feeling on the inside.

     

    Don’t be afraid to ask your child their thoughts, even tho they may not be able to express this to you. Showing that you can see a difference may help that bit more. A scary thought for any parent is potential suicide attempts. Though this is rare in primary children, it has increased in recent years. Being the second leading cause of death in children ages 10 to 14 in 2018. Times are tougher these days, and we want to make sure our children are safe in every aspect. Be aware, consistent and focus on your children’s daily moods and be able to help make that change. Contact your doctors or local specialist, and the help is out there.

  • Depression Myths

    Whether you have dealt with some of life’s knockbacks or know of someone who has, you will understand that depression does not discriminate.

    It can hit you like a tonne of bricks for no reason or slowly creep in when you are going through a tough time. Regardless of the even, some 300 million worldwide are affected (World Health Organisation statistics). Despite this, many myths surround the condition, most of which are rather unhelpful.

    Counsellor and author, Lynn Crilly:

    “It’s a deep-rooted, debilitating and destructive mental illness that affects both the sufferers and their carers alike. ‘Facts’ are often quoted about depression that are myths, which can prevent people from getting to grips with and being able to understand depression.”

     

    Here are our top five misconceptions about depression:

    1. It is obvious when a person has depression

    Not true. Many if not most with depression, hide it, or try their best to. A person may become so good at concealing how they feel to such an extent that only the most alerted loved ones can see what truly hides behind the smiles. And this is where knowing a person well and knowing the difference between what is normal for them is vital. If they start to display out of character behaviours such as recklessness, staying up more/sleeping less, or changes to their eating habits, dig deeper to see if depression or another mental illness could be the cause.

    1. The only treatment is antidepressants

    Some see antidepressant medication as something to be feared and avoided due to side-effects and the potential to lead to addiction. Of course, these concerns shouldn’t be ignored, but it shouldn’t put a person off seeking medical help for their mental health.

    Lyn Crilly says the best person to advise on medication is your medical practitioner. However, this is not to say that all responsibility should be handed to them; the patient and those around them should have input where appropriate.

    Medication is only one line of treatment, and it not always the first nor always required. Talking therapies such as counselling, Hypnotherapy, CBT, and can be very effective treatments.

    1. It affects mainly women

    While the number of women known to be suffering from depression is higher than men, we also know that men are much less likely to seek support for their symptoms than their counterparts.

    The most shocking fact is the most significant cause of death among men under 50 is suicide. This clearly shows that men are suffering and they too need to be right at the centre of mental health conversations.

    The myth that “real men don’t get depression” must also stop. Far too many still believe mental illness is a sign of weakness, making it even more dangerous for both genders.

    1. The taboo no longer exists

    There’s no mistaking that mental health recognition has come a long way. Celebrities and Royal family members continue to campaign to break the stigma and change how we view those with mental health. Suddenly society became flooded with awareness and the conditions placed firmly under the spotlight. A real shift seems to have occurred; however, the battle is not over yet.

    People are still wary of admitting mental ill health for fear of judgement, exclusion and potential career risks. There are still plenty of misconceptions of what having and living with a mental illness is truly like.

     

    1. You cannot help those with depression

    Granted you can’t wave a wand and make depression disappear, but you can support someone with a mental health condition. Showing acceptance, understanding and compassion can make their journey easier to bear. Should they wish, you could aid them at appointments or accompany them during errands. Sometimes people just need a friendly face to be with them. These may seem like trivial activities, but they can make a huge difference.

    Professionals such as employers and teachers can play an important role in ensuring mental ill-health is treated the same as any physical illness.

     

    For information on we can support your mental health please contact us today on 01803 500300.

     

    Depression Myths

  • Depression And The Effects On Your Body

    Depression And The Effects On Your Body

    Depression is both a physical and psychological condition.

    Everyday tasks become difficult feats of endurance though people around you may not notice. Most think the only symptoms of depression is chronic sadness; they overlook the physiological symptoms.

    Here are a few signs that your body is warning you about your mental health:

     

    1. Fatigue

    We all feel burnt out sometimes, but if you feel inexplicably tired every day, this can be a sign of chronic depression. A study conducted by the National Medical Library of the United States found the most common symptom of major depressive disorder is fatigue.
    You may not notice the physical lack of energy or exhaustion. These symptoms tend to appear after you try to solve the issue mentally. The body begins to act, yet the situation has not been resolved. It is here that lies the discord between what you think and what you do.

    2. Pain

    Alongside depression, most experience pain and discomfort. Doctors confirm that spinal pain is the most common which can be seen through movement. Other generalised pain includes the neck, shoulders, back and joints. In many patients, this is due to unconscious breath-holding and muscle tensing.

    3. Trouble Sleeping

    Sleeping too much, too little, restless sleep, waking only for meals or tossing and turning can indicate problems with the mental state. It is advisable to see a specialist, especially if they persist for longer than two weeks.

    4. Digestive Problems

    Stomach problems are widespread in those with depression and anxiety. This is most clearly demonstrated from a young age as their abdominal pains are generally caused by issues surrounding peer pressure. Nausea, gut inflammation and diarrhoea can be provoked by depression, producing a wide array of digestive imbalances.

    5. Blurred Consciousness

    People who suffer from depression often report memory problems and an inability to concentrate. For healthy people experiencing brain fog, rest is enough to restore their functionality. If the condition lasts for an extended period and rest or sleep does not alleviate symptoms, then it could be a sign of a more serious problem and support should be sought.

    6. Cycle Changes

    Gynaecologists say many factors can affect the menstrual cycle. Depression can alter duration and increase pain. Studies have shown that menstruation can worsen symptoms of depression. 64% of women report feeling worse 5-10 days before their period.

    7. Diabetes

    People with diabetes have a high risk of developing depression. Those suffering from depression are at a higher than average risk of developing diabetes. Symptoms include an unhealthy attitude towards food and weight gain. This disease also impacts the immune system, which worsens the symptoms of depression and other related mental health conditions.
    Anxiety causes the release of cortisol, a stress hormone, and increases insulin release. This reduces the level of sugar in the blood, making the individual want to consume sweeter related foods.

    8. Headaches

    Depression affects neurotransmitters and neurohormones that regulate response to stress, inflammation, and body systems. Those with a permanent migraine are 2-3 times more likely to suffer from depression than the general population. Both migraine and depression have common roots in the brain, and they can develop due to environmental or genetic reasons.

     

    If you would like to book your consultation for just £10, please telephone us on 01803 500300 or complete the form below.

     

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  • Seasonal Affective Disorder: Why Warm Weather Can Trigger Depression

    Reverse SAD “or summer SAD” is a less known version of Seasonal Affective Disorder.

    Seasonal Effective Disorder

    The dark days are behind us as we move into spring/summer with the arrival of long pleasant evenings. For most, this is enough to lift our moods but for those with reverse Seasonal Affective Disorder, this is not the case. For those, the longer days create more sadness.

    Season Affective Disorder is a depressive disorder that relates to the changes in seasons. This condition is mostly associated with winter which makes sense, as the days are grey and shortened. These dark and damp days provide the perfect atmosphere for low moods and depression to manifest themselves in our moods.

    Mental health experts say that the opposite can occur; SAD isn’t just a winter illness. It is thought that 10 % of people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder in spring and summer.

    The cause isn’t formally understood, but there are factors believed by professionals that bring on the onset of depression during the spring/summer months.

    Longer Days

    It has long been speculated that the onset of symptoms directly results from longer days, humidity, and an increase in temperatures. In comparison to winter, dark, dank and short days, our bodies produce lower levels of serotonin which can result in symptoms of depression. Switch this to when things start warming up and our levels of melatonin (which play a role in sleep and mood) can be thrown out of balance.

    Feeling Unbalanced

    Longer days and shorter nights also bring a different mood. Many people feel in higher spirits due to the warmer temperatures and sun exposure. If you have experienced depression you may be more vulnerable to seasonal bouts of low mood for what appears to be little or no reason. If you feel a sense of imbalance and a different level of happiness to others, you may have feelings of anxiety and guilt for not partaking in their happiness. This could be a precipitate of summer SAD.

     

    Seasonal Affective Disorder

    Allergies

    It has been suggested that allergies can play a large role in the impact of a person’s mood. Frustrations, feeling under the weather and being tired are typical symptoms that contribute to low moods. Typically, hayfever with the increased levels of pollen in the warmer months could be what triggers summer SAD.

    Symptoms tend to be mild during early spring but are known to increase as the season progress. Whilst winter SAD focuses on low energy and light, summer SAD symptoms tend to centre on agitation and irritability.

    Typically, people with summer SAD have trouble sleeping, poor appetite, anxiety, and agitation. Currently, there is no treatment for summer SAD, but that doesn’t mean we cannot help ourselves and others.

    Sleep in a darkened room

    As insomnia related to lighter nights is a key symptom, block out as much sunlight as possible when you go to sleep.

    Exercise

    Exercise is a natural way to relieve stress and anxiety. Although you may not feel able to exercise, a short walk outside can decree symptoms and improve overall mood.

     

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  • Depression Triggered by Shyness?

    Depression, is a mental illness, yes, but is it more than that? Can it be emotional?

     

    I cannot be seen. You hurry past me and I am invisible.

    You do not hear me; my words hold each other back.

     

     

    Depression took twenty-five years of my life until I realised there was a connection between it and my shyness in childhood. I clearly remember when those suppressed feelings erupted and took me down with the blackest cloud I experienced.

     

    I was a happy child. I was sensitive and that was all-encompassing. All those little spats with siblings, parents and peers didn’t wash away, they sank inwards. Every negative interaction was forensically analysed. I never fought back, I held it all in. As independent social interactions grew, I retreated further. When I hit my teens I clearly remember wanting to die purely because I was sad. I had every opportunity growing up; I went to a good school, I attended sports clubs and Scouts. There was every opportunity to release my feelings, but I just wasn’t made that way. All my pain was internalised. The sadness of not feeling included, though I was. The feeling of not being strong, my incapability to engage all processed itself in a negative way.

     


    Shyness in childhood and teenage depression

     

     

     

     

    The trajectory was a long progression from a shy child to a depressed teen. My shyness centred around a lack of self-confidence to speak, interject and express how I feel outwardly. Even now I still struggle.

     

    I commented to a friend recently that I write better than I speak. He said he is the opposite. Both have their strengths, but ultimately expression is paramount.

     

    There are ways through this, ways to help yourself and others from harming themselves.

     

     

     

    Move out of your comfort zone

     

     

     

    Put yourself in social situations without giving it much thought. Retrain your brain with regard to how you see others. Start a conversation your words aren’t poison. Granted not everyone will embrace you but that doesn‚Äôt matter. Stop punishing yourself. When you feel isolated allow yourself to be consumed by other things-venture out.

     

    The root of shyness is sensitivity. It can be the greatest gift but only when used in the right way. Shyness can either be your friend or destroy you.

     

    I can only speak for myself. Sensitivity led me inwards and to ultimately stand on my feelings until they took my feet from under me. So, dance around the kitchen in your pyjamas with your friend who can’t dance publicly, sing into your hairbrush and meet friends in new places. Remember it is okay to look inwards, but set it loose. Ultimately it is how you feel that really matters and if you feel sad inside, it’s not the place for those emotions.

    If you would like information regarding how our treatments can help you overcome the shy-depression cycle, please contact us below.

    Use the right support networks and help those around you utilise their sensitivity.

  • Depression

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    What is Depression?

    Depression or Major Depressive Disorder is a common and serious mental illness that negatively affects the way you feel and act.

    Depression can cause a lack of interest in things you used to enjoy and can be socially isolating. Having a low mood, being tired more and a change in appetite are signs of depression.

     

    The Devon Clinic offers Cognitive Behavioural Therapy,Counselling, Hypnotherapy, and Psychology to help with Depression

  • Compassionate Counselling

    Introduction

    In today’s fast-paced world, an increasing number of individuals are grappling with the aftermath of trauma. Whether stemming from personal experiences, societal issues, or global crises, the need for effective trauma recovery methods has never been more apparent. The Devon Clinic - compassionate counsellingOne of the most promising approaches is compassionate counselling, which emphasizes the creation of safe spaces for healing and growth. This article explores the significance of safe spaces in the context of trauma recovery and the profound impact that compassionate counselling can have on individuals seeking to reclaim their lives.

    The Importance of Safe Spaces

    Safe spaces are environments that foster open communication, trust, and emotional safety, allowing individuals to express their feelings without fear of judgment or retaliation. Within the framework of counselling, these spaces are essential for encouraging clients to engage with their emotions and experiences authentically. The significance of safe spaces cannot be overstated, as they serve as the bedrock for effective therapeutic interventions and healing processes.

    In a world often marked by chaos and unpredictability, the assurance of a safe space can be transformative. It allows individuals to explore their trauma at their own pace, ultimately leading to a better understanding of their emotions and fostering resilience. Compassionate counselling thrives in such environments, where the focus is on empathy, understanding, and nurturing, paving the way for meaningful recovery and growth.

    Understanding Trauma and Its Effects

    Trauma manifests in various forms, including emotional, psychological, and physical responses to distressing events. It can arise from a wide range of experiences, including but not limited to abuse, neglect, loss, accidents, and natural disasters. The effects of trauma are profound and can lead to a variety of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and relationship difficulties.

    Understanding the multifaceted nature of trauma is crucial for effective intervention. It affects not only the individual but also their relationships and overall quality of life. Therefore, addressing trauma requires a comprehensive approach that acknowledges the complexity of human emotions and experiences, which is where compassionate counselling comes into play.

    The Role of Compassionate Counselling

    Compassionate counselling is a therapeutic approach centered around empathy, understanding, and support. It aims to create an environment where clients feel seen, heard, and valued. In the context of trauma recovery, this approach is particularly beneficial, as it allows individuals to confront their experiences without the fear of judgment.

    Counsellors who practice compassion are trained to not only listen but to validate their clients’ feelings and experiences. This validation is crucial for individuals who may have been silenced or devalued in their lives. By fostering an empathetic connection, compassionate counselling enables clients to explore their trauma in a supportive atmosphere, thereby enhancing their chances of recovery.

    The Concept of Safe Spaces in Counselling

    Defining Safe Spaces

    Safe spaces in counselling are defined by their ability to provide emotional and psychological safety for clients. They are characterized by a non-judgmental atmosphere where individuals can express their feelings freely and openly. This concept is vital in trauma recovery, as many individuals carry feelings of shame or guilt that can hinder their healing journey.

    Characteristics of a Safe Space

    Key characteristics of a safe space include confidentiality, trust, respect, and empathy. Confidentiality ensures that clients can share their experiences without fear of exposure, while trust forms the foundation of the therapeutic relationship. Respect for individual experiences and emotions is essential, as it validates the client’s journey. Finally, empathy allows counsellors to connect with clients on a deep emotional level, facilitating healing.

    Importance of Trust and Confidentiality

    Trust and confidentiality are paramount in creating a safe therapeutic space. Clients must feel assured that their disclosures will remain private and that they can trust their counsellor to act in their best interest. This trust is built over time through consistent and compassionate interactions. When clients feel safe, they are more likely to engage fully in the therapeutic process, explore their trauma, and work towards recovery.

    The Impact of Compassionate Counselling

    Empathy and Validation in the Healing Process

    Empathy is a cornerstone of compassionate counselling. It involves understanding the client’s feelings and perspectives and responding in a way that validates their experiences. This validation is crucial for individuals who have faced trauma, as it reassures them that their feelings are legitimate and worthy of attention. By providing a space where clients feel understood, empathetic counselling fosters an environment conducive to healing.

    Furthermore, the act of being listened to can be incredibly cathartic. It allows clients to process their feelings and uncertainties, ultimately leading to greater self-awareness. This process of validation not only aids in trauma recovery but also empowers individuals to reclaim their narratives, fostering a sense of agency over their lives.

    Building Resilience Through Supportive Counselling

    Compassionate counselling also plays a vital role in building resilience. By providing support and guidance, counsellors help clients develop coping skills to navigate life’s challenges. Resilience is not merely about bouncing back from adversity; it involves adapting and thriving despite the difficulties faced. Through compassionate engagement, individuals can learn to harness their inner strength, fostering a healthier mindset and approach to future challenges.

    Moreover, resilience-building strategies can include mindfulness practices, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and emotion regulation skills. These tools empower clients to face their trauma and everyday challenges with renewed confidence, paving the way for a more fulfilling life.

    Facilitating Emotional Expression

    Another critical aspect of compassionate counselling is its ability to facilitate emotional expression. For many individuals facing trauma, expressing their emotions can be daunting. Compassionate counselling provides a safe environment for clients to articulate their feelings, whether through talk therapy, art therapy, or movement therapy. This emotional expression is vital for processing trauma and moving towards healing.

    Through various therapeutic techniques, clients can explore complex emotions such as grief, anger, and anxiety. This exploration allows for a deeper understanding of the self and can lead to significant breakthroughs in the healing process. By encouraging healthy emotional expression, compassionate counselling helps clients release pent-up feelings, ultimately aiding in their recovery journey.

    Case Studies and Testimonials

    Real-life Examples of Trauma Recovery

    Real-life case studies provide invaluable insights into the effectiveness of compassionate counselling in trauma recovery. For instance, consider the story of Sarah, a survivor of domestic abuse. Through compassionate counselling, Sarah was able to confront her traumatic experiences in a safe environment, allowing her to process her feelings of shame and guilt. Over time, she developed coping strategies and resilience that empowered her to rebuild her life.

    Another example is that of John, a veteran dealing with PTSD. His experience with compassionate counselling helped him articulate his emotions and experiences related to combat. Through the support of his counsellor, John learned to manage his symptoms and began to reintegrate into civilian life with renewed hope and purpose.

    Client Stories: The Power of Compassionate Counselling

    Numerous testimonials from clients underscore the transformative power of compassionate counselling. Many individuals report feeling an immediate sense of relief upon entering a safe counselling environment. Clients often express gratitude for the understanding and patience shown by their counsellors, which fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance.

    These stories illustrate not only the effectiveness of compassionate counselling but also the critical role that safe spaces play in the healing process. When individuals feel supported and understood, they are more likely to engage in their healing journey, leading to positive outcomes.

    Challenges in Creating Safe Spaces

    Barriers to Effective Counselling

    Despite the profound benefits of compassionate counselling, several barriers can hinder the creation of safe spaces. One significant challenge is the societal stigma surrounding mental health and trauma. Many individuals may feel ashamed to seek help or may fear being judged by others. This stigma can prevent potential clients from accessing the support they need, perpetuating their suffering.

    Additionally, systemic issues, such as lack of access to mental health resources or financial constraints, can pose significant challenges. Many individuals may find it difficult to afford quality counselling, which limits their opportunities for healing. Addressing these barriers is essential to ensure that safe spaces are accessible to all individuals in need.

    Addressing Stigma Around Mental Health

    Addressing the stigma surrounding mental health is crucial for creating a culture that values emotional well-being. Public education campaigns, community outreach programs, and open discussions about mental health can help reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek support. By normalizing conversations about trauma and mental health, we can foster environments where safe spaces are readily available and accessible to everyone.

    Moreover, training for mental health professionals on cultural competence and sensitivity can enhance their effectiveness in creating safe spaces. By understanding the diverse backgrounds and experiences of clients, counsellors can better cater to the unique needs of each individual, further promoting healing and recovery.

    The Need for Training and Awareness

    Training and awareness for mental health professionals are integral to creating effective safe spaces. Counsellors must be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to foster trust and confidentiality while also being sensitive to the nuances of trauma. Continuous professional development in trauma-informed care and compassionate techniques can enhance the effectiveness of counselling practices.

    Furthermore, spreading awareness about the importance of safe spaces in counselling can encourage more individuals to seek help. When clients understand that they have the right to a supportive environment, they are more likely to engage in the therapeutic process. This increased awareness can ultimately lead to improved mental health outcomes within communities.

    Conclusion

    Summary of Key Points

    Compassionate counselling serves as a beacon of hope for individuals navigating the tumultuous waters of trauma. By prioritizing the creation of safe spaces, this approach fosters trust, empathy, and emotional expression, all of which are crucial for effective healing. The profound impact of compassion in counselling not only aids in the recovery process but also empowers individuals to reclaim their narratives and build resilience.

    Despite the challenges in creating safe spaces, addressing stigma and investing in training for mental health professionals can enhance the effectiveness of compassionate counselling. By promoting a culture that values emotional well-being, we can ensure that safe spaces become a reality for all, facilitating healing for those who need it most.

    The Future of Compassionate Counselling in Trauma Recovery

    As we move forward, the future of compassionate counselling looks promising. With an increased focus on mental health awareness and the importance of safe spaces, more individuals will have the opportunity to engage in healing processes that genuinely resonate with their needs. By continuing to advocate for compassionate practices and ensuring accessibility, we can create a society where trauma recovery is not only possible but also embraced.

    FAQs

    What is compassionate counselling?

    Compassionate counselling is a therapeutic approach that emphasizes empathy, understanding, and support. It aims to create a safe environment where clients can express their feelings and experiences without fear of judgment.

    Why are safe spaces important in counselling?

    Safe spaces are crucial in counselling as they foster open communication, trust, and emotional safety, allowing clients to engage authentically in their healing process.

    How does compassionate counselling help with trauma recovery?

    Compassionate counselling helps with trauma recovery by providing validation, facilitating emotional expression, and equipping clients with coping strategies, ultimately empowering them to rebuild their lives.

    What are some challenges in creating safe spaces?

    Challenges in creating safe spaces include societal stigma surrounding mental health, lack of access to resources, and the need for ongoing training for mental health professionals.

    How can stigma around mental health be addressed?

    Stigma can be addressed through public education campaigns, community outreach, and open discussions about mental health, fostering a culture that values emotional well-being.

  • Karrin Jerzyszek

    About me 

    It can be difficult to reach out for help, especially when we need it most. Central to my practice is building a trusting relationship so that you feel safe and comfortable to freely explore. Making sense of confusing or overwhelming emotions alone can send us spiralling. Counselling is a collaborative process and by working together I can offer you resources to better cope with distressing emotions and help you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself to enhance your quality of life. Your needs will shape how we go forward with therapy at a pace that suits you.

    I offer integrative counselling with training in Person-centred, Gestalt and CBT schools of psychotherapy, meaning I provide a flexible approach depending on your individual needs. This may be talking therapy combined with creative methods or mindfulness techniques. I offer a safe and non-judgemental space based on compassion and honesty and believe that by truly being heard you will grow to your full potential.

    I have experience dealing with women’s trauma using a Trauma-informed Framework.

    I also have training and can offer outdoor sessions. I believe that connecting with nature can be healing and increasing awareness of our body movement has great therapeutic benefits.

    I am fully qualified and registered with the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society and adhere to the ethical framework. I am currently based in Paignton and I cover surrounding areas of Torbay for walk-and-talk sessions.

    I offer a free initial 20-minute telephone consultation to gain an understanding of your needs and assess whether we might be able to work together. 

    Areas of counselling I deal with 

    Therapies offered

    Fees

    Free 20-minute initial telephone session

    £40 per hour 

    £35 per hour walk and talk

    *concession rates available, please contact to discuss 

    Concessions offered for

    • Low income 
    • Keyworkers 
    • OAPs 
    • Students 
    • Trainee counsellors 
    • Unemployed 
    • Refugees 

    You can book with Karrin via the Devon Clinic, please call us on 01803 500300 OR email reception@devonclinic.co.uk

  • Peter Bartlett

    Hi, I am Peter, I’ve been training at Heartwood College of Counselling and Psychotherapy for the last 2 years as a trainee integrated therapist .  I’ve supported people with addiction issues for the last 10 years. I have also been in recovery for the last 13 years myself so have first hand experience of overcoming addiction and also dealing with the underlying causes and conditions that lead to addictions such as anxiety and depression.  My aim is to bring a safe place understanding and empathy

    You can book with Peter via the Devon Clinic, please call us on 01803 500300 OR email reception@devonclinic.co.uk

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