Abigail Hardiman

I work 8am - 2.30pm weekdays  In addition I have some evening availability.

"We don't get wounded alone and we don't heal alone." Carl Jung. Are wounds from the past affecting how you are functioning in the present and your thoughts of the future? Our early experiences can create patterns of trust and distrust which affect how we are in our relationships with others and ourselves, as well as how we respond to trauma and stress throughout our lives on many different levels. However, whilst we may be shaped by the past I believe that we do not need to be trapped by it. 

As an integrative counsellor I draw on a number of different therapeutic theories to support you and your unique needs. These include ideas from the Psychodynamic school of thought (exploring how we have been shaped by our childhood experiences) and Humanistic traditions (believing we have agency and, with support, resources to heal ourselves).

​I also have a particular strength in working with the spiritual aspect of who we are, that sense of being part of something more. There can be times in our lives when it's difficult or even frightening to name our beliefs but I want to ensure that my clients feel free to bring their whole being into the counselling space, without fear of judgement or dismissal.  Whatever spirituality means to you, whether it be linked to a particular faith or religion, or something more individual, you are welcome.  Equally, if the spiritual side of life isn't something you relate to and you don't wish to explore this as part of counselling, don't worry - I only ever work in a way that respects the client's own choices. 

We will work together gently and compassionately at your own pace, respecting that you are the expert in your own life.  Drawing on years of experience working with individuals and families facing a variety of different challenges I can support you to access your own resources and move towards healing or change.

You can choose whether you prefer sessions to be traditional talk therapy or if, on the occasions when words don't feel enough, you might like to engage with more creative options such as sand tray therapy, visualisation and inner child work.   See my website for more information about these alternative ways of working.

I work face to face from rooms in central Exeter or online if you prefer to access therapy from the comfort of your own home.

I believe that the quality of the therapeutic relationship between counsellor and client is central to healing, so I offer a free 15 minute phone or zoom call to give you an opportunity to see if you would feel comfortable working with me before making any financial commitment.

Once you have decided to enter counselling with me I will send you a contract which we will discuss in our first session along with your personal needs and hopes for therapy.