FAQs

Choosing the right support

  • Often, the terms counselling and psychotherapy are used interchangeably. There is often significant overlap between the two disciplines, and many practitioners use skills from both.

    Broadly speaking, counselling is likely to last a number of weeks or months, whereas psychotherapy is likely to last a number of months or years. Counselling is sometimes associated with supporting people through specific challenges, life events or emotional difficulties, while psychotherapy may place greater emphasis on exploring deeper or longer-standing patterns, experiences and ways of relating.

    In practice, the distinction is not always clear-cut. Many therapists work in ways that incorporate elements of both counselling and psychotherapy depending on the needs of the individual.

  • Therapy and coaching can both support personal growth, but they often have different aims.

    Coaching typically helps people work towards specific goals, performance outcomes or life changes. Therapy provides space to explore emotional wellbeing and relationships, past experiences, patterns of behaviour and psychological challenges that may be contributing to present experiences and informing responses and choices.

    Many people seek therapy when they are experiencing anxiety, grief, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties or significant life transitions. Therapy can also support personal growth, but its focus is not simply on achieving goals; it also creates space for reflection, self-understanding and long-term emotional healing.

    Another difference relates to training and professional standards. Many therapists undertake several years of professional training, complete supervised client work before qualifying, participate in ongoing professional development, and work within recognised ethical frameworks. Many also belong to professional bodies such as the BACP or UKCP.

    Coaching is not subject to the same professional frameworks and training requirements, although many coaches undertake high-quality training and belong to professional coaching organisations.

    Because the titles "therapist", "counsellor" and "coach" are not legally protected in the UK, it is always worth taking time to understand a practitioner's qualifications, experience, professional membership and approach before deciding whether they are the right fit for you.

  • The terms "therapist" and "counsellor" are often used interchangeably, and there is considerable overlap between them.

    In the UK, a counsellor typically supports people in exploring emotional, relational and psychological difficulties within a structured therapeutic relationship. The term therapist is broader and may be used by counsellors, psychotherapists and other mental health professionals.

    I use the term therapist because it reflects the integrative way that I work, drawing on different therapeutic approaches to support each person's individual needs. My professional training is in Integrative Counselling, and I am a registered member of the BACP.

    The most important consideration is not the title someone uses, but their training, experience, professional membership and whether you feel they are the right fit for you.

  • There is currently no single legal definition of the title "therapist" in the UK, which can make it difficult to know what qualifications and training someone has completed.

    When looking for a therapist, it can be helpful to consider:

    • their professional training and qualifications

    • membership of a recognised professional body, for example the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) or UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy)

    • their experience working with issues similar to yours

    • whether they receive regular supervision

    • whether they hold appropriate insurance and follow an ethical framework

    • their commitment to ongoing professional development and training

    Membership of a recognised professional body such as the BACP or UKCP can be a helpful indicator that a practitioner has completed recognised training, works within an ethical framework, receives regular supervision, and is committed to maintaining their professional standards through ongoing development.

    You are always entitled to ask a therapist about their training, experience and professional registration before deciding whether to work with them.

    My qualifications and professional memberships can be found here.

  • The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) is one of the largest professional bodies for counsellors and psychotherapists in the UK.

    As a registered member of the BACP, I have met the organisation's standards for training and practice, agree to work within its Ethical Framework, undertake ongoing professional development, and receive regular clinical supervision.

    BACP registration provides an additional level of accountability and reassurance for clients, helping them know that a therapist is committed to working safely, ethically and professionally.

  • Choosing a therapist can feel like a significant decision, particularly when you are sharing personal or sensitive aspects of your life.

    Professional membership with an organisation such as the BACP or UKCP demonstrates a commitment to recognised standards of ethical practice, continuing professional development and professional accountability.

    While no qualification or professional membership can guarantee that a therapist will be the right fit for every person, many clients find reassurance in knowing that their therapist belongs to a recognised professional body and works within an established ethical framework.

  • Finding the right therapist is an important part of the therapeutic process. Research tells us that the relationship you develop with your therapist makes a significant difference to the overall effectiveness, in terms of whether therapy helps you or not.

    The therapeutic rapport can be as important as the type of therapy practiced.

    Qualifications and experience matter, but so does how you feel in your therapist’s company. Many people find it helpful to ask themselves whether they feel heard, respected, safe, understood and comfortable enough to be honest.

    I welcome any questions you might have before starting therapy, as finding the right fit is important for both of us.

When therapy can help

  • Traumatic experiences can leave a lasting impression on how we feel, think, relate to others and move through daily life. You may notice experiencing things like hypervigilance, emotional overwhelm, difficulties trusting others, anxiety, low mood, numbness, sleep problems or feeling disconnected from yourself.

    Therapy provides a safe and supportive space to make sense of what you have experienced, understand the impact of trauma and develop ways of coping.

    Recovering from trauma is not about forgetting what happened, but finding ways to move forward with greater understanding, self-compassion and resilience. Trauma-informed support is crucial for prioritising stabilisation, and helping someone who has experienced trauma feel a sense of control.

  • Past experiences do not always show up as clear memories of a particular event. Sometimes their effects can appear in everyday life through anxiety, low self-worth, difficulties trusting others, people-pleasing, emotional overwhelm, perfectionism, relationship difficulties or feeling disconnected from yourself.

    Many people seek therapy because they notice patterns they cannot fully explain.

    Working together in therapy sessions can help us explore whether past experiences may be contributing to current challenges, working towards greater self-understanding and finding clarity.

  • Anxiety can affect many areas of life, including work, relationships, confidence, sleep and overall wellbeing. It may show up as excessive worry, overthinking, panic, feeling constantly on edge, or struggling to switch off and relax.

    Therapy can help you understand the factors contributing to your anxiety, explore patterns that may be keeping it going, and develop healthier ways of responding to difficult thoughts and feelings. Together, we can work towards helping you feel more grounded, resilient and able to navigate life's challenges.

  • Shame often develops when we come to believe there is something fundamentally wrong with us. It can affect self-esteem, relationships, confidence and emotional wellbeing.

    Therapy can help you understand where feelings of shame may have originated, explore the messages you have internalised and develop a more compassionate relationship with yourself. Over time, many people find they are able to move away from self-criticism towards greater self-acceptance.

    A former client who was struggling with feelings of shame shared their reflections following therapy:

    "By airing with you the worries I had, you have helped to release me from the shame I was feeling. This made me feel able to have a sense of control over the situation, which ultimately reduced my unhealthy behaviours.

    Having someone to share openly with about feeling embarrassed and like the worst person in the world, warts and all, has released those feelings. I have been able to accept myself."

    - Online Client

  • Living with a disability can bring unique challenges such as navigating changes in identity, independence, accessibility, relationships and social attitudes.

    Therapy offers a supportive, collaborative space to explore these experiences. Whether you are adapting to a recent change or have been living with a disability for many years, therapy can help you process emotions, strengthen coping strategies and develop greater self-understanding.

  • Grief is a natural response to loss, but that does not mean it is easy to carry. The loss of a loved one, relationship, health, identity, future plans or way of life can bring all kinds of emotions, including sadness, anger, guilt, confusion and loneliness.

    Integrative therapy offers a supportive space to process your experience of grief without judgement or expectation. There is no right way to grieve, and the therapeutic process can help you make sense of your feelings while finding ways to move forward at your own pace.

    A former client who was struggling with a loss of confidence following bereavement shared their reflections following therapy:

    "You make me feel like I can just talk without judgement, and I feel like I can be me without worrying."

    - Phone Client

  • Low self-esteem can affect how you see yourself, relate to others and approach opportunities in life. You may find yourself being highly self-critical, doubting your abilities, comparing yourself to others or struggling to recognise your own worth.

    Integrative therapy can help you explore where these beliefs may have come from, understand the experiences that have shaped them, and develop a more compassionate and balanced relationship with yourself.

    A former client who was struggling with low self-esteem shared their reflections following therapy:

    "Since our sessions, I've learned to accept all parts of me and have been able to see myself in a new light.

    I felt so much shame before, and now I feel like I can take on the world.

    I now have a much better understanding of my self-worth, which has also had a knock on effect on my relationship and my job.”

    - Online Client

  • A life-changing injury or illness can affect far more than physical health. It can impact identity, relationships, confidence, independence, work, future plans and your sense of self.

    Therapy provides a space to process the emotional impact of these changes and the losses that may accompany them. It can help you navigate uncertainty, grief, anger, fear and adjustment while supporting you to reconnect with your strengths and values.

    A former outdoor trauma programme participant who was adjusting to life following spinal cord injuries and a terminal diagnosis shared their reflections after working together:

    “From the first time I met her, she made me feel safe, included and valued. Her ability to listen actively and empathetically has allowed me to open up about personal struggles, creating an environment of trust and understanding.”
    – Outdoor Trauma Recovery Programme Participant

  • Social anxiety can make everyday situations feel overwhelming, leading to worries about being judged, criticised or rejected.

    Integrative therapy can help you understand the roots of these fears, explore patterns that may be maintaining anxiety and develop strategies that support greater confidence and self-acceptance.

  • Work-related stress can have a significant impact on mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. You may feel exhausted, overwhelmed, disconnected from your work, foggy, numb, or under constant pressure to keep going despite feeling depleted.

    Therapy can provide a space to explore the causes of workplace stress, identify patterns that may be unsustainable, and develop ways of responding that better support your personal boundaries and long-term wellbeing.

    A former client who was struggling with pressure at work shared their reflections following therapy:

    “I didn’t realise quite how much everything had been weighing on me. It’s been so helpful to talk it all through. This has honestly been some of the most helpful support I’ve had around this.”

    - Roam Therapy (Outdoor Walk & Talk) Client

Therapeutic approaches

  • Integrative therapy is a flexible approach that draws on different therapeutic models and techniques to meet your individual needs.

    Rather than using a single method with every client, I am trained in multiple modalites and tailor therapy to your unique experiences, goals and circumstances. This allows us to work in a way that feels supportive and appropriate for you.

    My approach is grounded in building a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship while helping you develop greater understanding, resilience and self-awareness.

    More details on what my integrative approach encompasses can be found here.

  • Trauma-informed therapy recognises the widespread impact trauma can have on a person's emotional, physical and psychological wellbeing.

    Rather than asking "What's wrong with you?", a trauma-informed approach considers "What has happened to you?" and how those experiences may be influencing your life today.

    Safety, trust, choice, collaboration, and empowerment are central to trauma-informed practice. Trauma-informed therapy moves at a pace that feels manageable and respectful of your experiences.

  • CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) focuses primarily on the relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviours.

    Integrative therapy takes a broader approach. It may include exploring current difficulties, past experiences, emotional patterns, relationships, identity, life events and the impact of trauma. Different therapeutic approaches can be drawn upon depending on what feels most helpful for you.

    Many people find this flexibility beneficial because therapy can be adapted as their needs change over time.

Session practicalities

  • The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another and explore what has brought you to therapy.

    You can share as much or as little as feels comfortable. We may discuss your current concerns, relevant life experiences, what you hope to gain from therapy and any questions you have about the process.

    There is no expectation that you tell your entire story in the first session. The aim is simply to begin building a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship.

  • Feeling nervous about starting therapy is completely understandable. For many people, reaching out for support can feel like a big step.

    You don’t need to know exactly what to say or have everything figured out before your first session. Therapy provides a space where we can start wherever you are and work at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

    If you still have questions, you are very welcome to drop me an email and we can have a brief initial chat over video or phone call, to see if it feels right for you and whether we would be a good fit.

  • There is no fixed number of sessions that is right for everyone.

    Some people come to therapy for support with a specific issue over a relatively short period, while others choose to work longer-term in order to explore deeper patterns, past experiences or ongoing life challenges. We can review how our sessions are progressing together and decide what feels most helpful for you.

  • Many people find that weekly sessions allow a chance to build consistency, develop the therapeutic rapport and keep momentum within the therapeutic process.

    Fortnightly sessions are not usually preferred to begin with, but may feel appropriate once the therapeutic process has developed.

  • There is no single format that works best for everyone. Some people appreciate the convenience and flexibility of online therapy, while others prefer the simplicity of phone sessions or the experience of meeting face-to-face.

    The most important factor is often choosing a format that helps you feel comfortable enough to engage openly in the therapeutic process. If you are unsure which option is right for you, we can discuss your preferences, circumstances and accessibility needs together.

    More information on session options can be found here.

  • The introductory call is a free, initial chat lasting around 20 minutes.

    This is an opportunity to briefly explore what has brought you to therapy, what you are hoping for from the process, and whether we both feel this is the right kind of support for you. It is also a chance for you to ask any questions you may have about how I work, the practicalities of sessions, or anything else that feels important to know.

    You don’t need to prepare anything in advance, and there is no expectation that you share more than feels comfortable. Some people arrive with a clear idea of what they would like support with, while others are still making sense of things. Both are welcome.

    The introductory call is not a therapy session, and there is no obligation to continue afterwards. Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with is important, and I encourage you to take time to consider whether the fit feels right for you.

Online & phone therapy

  • Virtual therapy sessions take place either via secure video call online, or over a phone call, and are held in much the same way as traditional face-to-face therapy.

    We meet at an agreed time, and sessions provide a confidential space to explore whatever is bringing you to therapy.

    All you need is a reliable internet connection or phone signal and a private space where you feel comfortable speaking openly.

    Some clients prefer virtual therapy because it removes the need to travel and makes it easier to fit therapy into everyday life.

  • Many people are surprised by how connected and insightful online and phone therapy sessions can feel.

    As with any session format, effectiveness often depends on individual preferences and needs, but research has found that virtual therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many common mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression and trauma-related difficulties. Several large reviews of the evidence have found little to no difference in outcomes between therapist-led online and face-to-face therapy.

    Many people appreciate the convenience and flexibility of online therapy, particularly if they have health conditions, caring responsibilities, mobility challenges, busy schedules, or live in rural areas. Attending therapy from a familiar environment can also help some people feel more comfortable opening up.

    I offer online therapy sessions via secure video call as well as over the phone, allowing clients to access support from wherever they are based.

  • Phone therapy can be particularly helpful if you have limited internet access, feel uncomfortable being on camera, experience fatigue, have visual impairments, or just find it easier to talk while not being seen.

    We can discuss which format feels most comfortable and accessible for you before we begin.

  • Confidentiality is an important part of the therapeutic relationship, whether sessions take place online, by phone or in person.

    I am bound by the BACP ethical framework and use secure systems for all sessions, taking reasonable steps to protect your privacy. At the start of the therapy process, we will discuss confidentiality as part of the therapeutic agreement.

  • Phone therapy offers a flexible and accessible way to access support, particularly for people who travel frequently, have limited privacy for video calls, experience screen fatigue, or simply feel more comfortable talking without being seen.

    Some people find that removing visual distractions allows them to focus more fully on their thoughts and feelings. Phone therapy can also be particularly helpful for those managing chronic illness, fatigue, mobility challenges or busy schedules.

    A former phone therapy client shared their reflections of the process:

    "You are the first person I've come across who I can just talk to completely openly, and I really appreciate it. You make me feel listened to and I have got so much out of our sessions." – Phone Client

  • Yes. I work with adults across the UK over online video call and by phone.

    Whether you live in a city or a rural area, have difficulty accessing local services due to mobility, health, work or family commitments, or just prefer meeting via video or phone call, virtual therapy can provide accessible and flexible support from wherever you are.

  • In many circumstances, yes. I am often able to work with clients who are living overseas, depending on the legal and professional requirements of the country they are based in.

    If you are currently living outside the UK and would like to explore virtual therapy, please get in touch and we can discuss whether I am able to work with you from your location.

Roam Therapy:
walk & talk therapy in Devon

  • Walk and talk therapy is a form of counselling that takes place outdoors while walking side-by-side rather than sitting together in a therapy room.

    Sessions combine the therapeutic benefits of counselling with the opportunity to be outdoors and gently moving through a natural environment. Many people find that walking can help conversations flow more naturally and make it easier to explore thoughts, feelings and experiences.

  • Walk and talk therapy sessions in Devon take place in carefully selected outdoor locations that have been assessed for their suitability for therapeutic work, across both East Devon and South Devon.

    Example locations for Walk and Talk Therapy in East Devon include Woodbury Common, Aylesbeare Common, and sections of the coast and estuary around Budleigh Salterton, Otterton, Exmouth, Beer and Sidmouth.

    Example locations for Walk and talk therapy in South Devon include Totnes, Bovey Tracey, Shaldon, Torquay, Dartmouth, Blackpool Sands and Salcombe.

    Wheelchair-accessible outdoor therapy in East and South Devon can be arranged in a number of locations, including the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, the Exe Estuary Trail between Exeter Quay and Exmouth/Dawlish, the Start Point Lighthouse Trail, and Berry Head National Nature Reserve.

    All outdoor therapy locations are chosen with consideration for privacy, accessibility and comfort. Prior to our first session, we can discuss a location that feels practical and supportive for your needs.

  • The therapeutic relationship and counselling process remain the same, but the setting is different.

    Rather than meeting in a therapy room, we meet outdoors and walk together at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Some people find the outdoor environment helps them feel more relaxed, grounded and less self-conscious than sitting face-to-face indoors.

  • Being outdoors can offer a different therapeutic experience to traditional indoor sessions.

    Many people reflect on feeling calmer, more relaxed and more connected to themselves when spending time in nature. Gentle movement can also help some people feel less stuck in their thoughts and more able to engage with difficult emotions or experiences.

    Every person's experience is unique, and outdoor therapy is not about achieving a particular outcome. Instead, it offers an alternative setting in which therapeutic conversations can unfold.

  • For many people, yes.

    The effectiveness of therapy is influenced by many factors, including the quality of the therapeutic relationship and whether the approach feels right for the individual.

    Some people prefer the structure of a therapy room, while others find that being outdoors helps them feel more comfortable, open and engaged in the process.

  • For some, sitting face-to-face in a therapy room can feel intense or unfamiliar. Walking side-by-side can reduce this sense of pressure and allow conversations to unfold more naturally.

    The rhythm of walking, combined with being outdoors, can help some individuals feel more relaxed, grounded and connected to their thoughts and emotions. Everyone is different, but many people find the experience of talking while moving feels more comfortable than they expected.

  • Walk and talk therapy may be suitable for adults seeking support with a range of issues, including anxiety, stress, life transitions, grief, relationship difficulties, trauma, identity questions and low self-esteem.

    It can be particularly appealing to people who feel uncomfortable in formal indoor settings or who feel more at ease when moving and being outdoors.

  • No.

    Sessions are adapted to suit individual needs and abilities. The focus is on the therapeutic process rather than exercise. Walks are generally gentle and can be adjusted according to your pace, mobility and comfort.

    If you have any health concerns, accessibility requirements or questions about suitability, we can discuss these before arranging a session.

  • Accessibility is important.

    Before beginning walk and talk therapy, we can discuss your individual needs and identify whether a suitable outdoor location can be found. In some cases, alternative routes, shorter walks, pauses, or a combination of outdoor and indoor sessions may be appropriate.

    My aim is to work collaboratively to find an approach that feels supportive and accessible for you.

  • Many people experiencing anxiety find walk and talk therapy helpful. Being outdoors and gently moving can create a different experience to sitting in a therapy room, and some people find it easier to talk while walking side-by-side.

    Walk and talk therapy is not a treatment for anxiety in itself, but it can provide a supportive environment in which therapeutic conversations can take place while benefiting from time spent outdoors.

  • The weather is always considered when planning outdoor sessions.

    Many sessions can still take place in light rain with suitable clothing. However, if conditions are unsafe, particularly during severe weather, strong winds or storms, we may rearrange the session or move online where appropriate.

  • Most walk and talk therapy in locations across Exeter and East Devon are included within my standard session fee. For locations requiring significant additional travel time, including other areas of Devon and beyond, an additional travel fee may apply. This will always be discussed and agreed in advance when arranging sessions.

  • Confidentiality remains an important part of walk and talk therapy.

    Because sessions take place in public outdoor spaces, there is a possibility of encountering other people. Before beginning outdoor therapy, we will discuss how confidentiality is managed as part of our therapeutic agreement, including what we would do if we meet someone you know or another member of the public.

    We will choose routes and locations that support privacy wherever possible.

  • Absolutely.

    Walk and talk therapy is not about maintaining a particular pace or covering a certain distance. If you need to pause, rest, sit down or spend time in one place, that is completely welcome.

    The focus remains on supporting the therapeutic process in a way that feels comfortable and manageable for you.

  • Comfortable clothing and suitable footwear are recommended, with a bottle of water.

    As sessions take place outdoors, it can be helpful to dress appropriately for the weather and terrain. Once a location has been agreed, I can provide guidance about anything specific you may wish to bring.

  • Yes.

    Some clients choose to combine walk and talk therapy with online sessions, depending on the season, weather, health needs, travel commitments or personal preference.

    This flexibility can allow therapy to continue in a way that best supports your circumstances at different times.

  • Walk and talk therapy may be a good fit if you enjoy being outdoors, find it easier to talk while moving, or feel less comfortable in a traditional therapy room.

    There is no right or wrong way to engage in therapy. If you're unsure whether outdoor therapy would suit you, you're welcome to get in touch and we can discuss your needs, preferences and any questions you may have.

If you have a question that hasn’t been answered here, or you’d like to explore whether working together feels like a good fit, feel free to reach out.

Get in touch