ABOUT Donna

Close-up portrait of a smiling middle-aged woman with blonde hair, wearing a green top and a silver necklace, against a plain gray background.

I am a qualified integrative counsellor, meaning I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches and tailor each session to meet the unique needs of every client.

Starting counselling can feel like a big step, especially if this is your first time, and you may not be sure what to expect or where to begin.

I offer a calm, welcoming and non-judgmental space where you can talk freely about whatever is on your mind. You don’t need to have the right words or a clear goal – we can take things slowly and work at a pace that feels right for you.

I will listen with care and understanding, supporting you to make sense of what you’re going through, whether that’s something from the past or challenges in your life right now. People often come to see me feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stressed or carrying experiences of loss or difficult life events. We can explore these together and look at ways to help things feel more manageable.

 “I will always meet you with compassion, empathy and acceptance.”

Feeling safe, heard and accepted is really important in our work together. I aim to offer a space where you can be yourself without fear of judgement, and where you can begin to notice your own strengths and what you need.

YOU WILL SET THE PACE AND THE AGENDA

I WILL COMMIT TO WORKING SENSITIVELY AND CREATIVELY ALONGSIDE YOU.

I will walk alongside you, respecting your experience and trusting in your ability to find a way forward that feels right for you. I believe everyone has the potential for change and to live a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Training, Qualifications & Experience

    • Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling

    • Level 3 Advanced Certificate in Counselling

    • Level 2 Award in Counselling

    I completed my counselling qualifications at Step by Step College in Newton Abbot, a well-respected counselling college known for its high standards and ethical approach. My training was both in-depth and highly practical, enabling me to develop strong counselling skills alongside a solid theoretical foundation.

    A key part of my qualification involved extensive, supervised client work over a 15-month period at a counselling service in Paignton. This provided valuable experience supporting people from a wide range of backgrounds, with different needs and life challenges.

    This breadth of experience, alongside my own life experience, has helped me develop a thoughtful, flexible, and compassionate approach, allowing me to offer a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, understood and respected.

  • I keep my knowledge and skills up to date with ongoing training.

    I am an accredited member of the National Counselling & PsychotherapyServices (NCPS).

    I am a registered member of the Professional standards agency in recognition of my commitment to high standards.

    Fully insured.

  • I am an Integrative Therapist and I draw on different counselling methods within my practice to make sure that you receive the best possible support. My foundation is in the person centred approach in terms of relationships which is a non directive talking therapy, where you are encouraged to take the lead and I act as a guide and source of support to help you find your strengths.

    In order to meet the differing needs of my clients I may employ CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) techniques, as these can help a you to manage your problems by looking at the way your thoughts, beliefs and attitudes can affect you feelings and actions. Drawing for the Gestalt model, we may look at you as a whole, with your unique experiences and reality and developing an awareness of your internal processes and body sensations in response to your needs.

    At times , I may introduce creative therapies such as drawing and sand tray to help clients communicate inner experiences, thoughts and feelings that they find difficult to put into words, or cant find the words to explain

    “The first step toward change is awareness, the second step is acceptance” - Nathaniel Branden

SOME WORDS FROM MY CLIENTS

  • “Donna is a joy to talk to. She’s so easy to open up to as I felt very comfortable sharing my information with her. She’s kind, gentle but at the same timedecisive and opens up questions. She picks you up and reassures you whenself-doubt creeps in”.

  • Despite going through a very tough time in my life, I found it very easy to talk to Donna. She made me feel very comfortable discussing difficult issues and was very supportive. I would highly recommend Donna to anyone who needs support. She really lifted me up when I was at my lowest”.

  • “I was very impressed with Donna and her support during what I would describe at best a very difficult time in my life. At all times she was empathetic, compassionate and professional; we laughed (and cried), but most of all she listened (and she heard me!!). I can’t thank you enough Donna, you gave me unconditional support (and tools) to give me the confidence moving forward in my life at my pace”.

Chat with Donna

It’s important to me that you feel comfortable with the therapist you choose. That’s why I offer a free 30-minute introductory session with no obligation to continue.

This gives us a chance to talk about what you hope to achieve from counselling, get to know each other a little, and discuss how I work. It’s also an opportunity for you to decide if counselling feels right for you.

Book Your Free 30-min Consultation