Stella King

I work in Exeter on Tuesdays (daytime hours) and Aylesbeare on Mondays (daytime hours). 

*Free phone assessment* (or in person usual cost) *concessionary rates for students and trainee counsellors* 

Depression | Anxiety | Life transitions| Ill health | Loss | Relationship issues | Identity issues.

Exeter and Aylesbeare

Openness and a non-judgemental curiosity are at the heart of my approach to counselling. I am interested to hear about your inner world, and the dialogue you have with and about yourself, that is unique to you. I am also curious to discover how life's challenges may impact your resilience within relationships, including with yourself.

Through our reflective and exploratory work together, you may discover aspects or parts of yourself that are hidden under the masks we wear to help us survive in everyday life. Tuning into the “louder” parts that hold so much power in terms of who you believe or feel you are, I may gently invite you to listen to the “quieter” parts of yourself and begin to take the courage to be guided by your own wisdom.

I believe that healing from adversity comes from developing a deeper connection with your core self. Our sessions can help raise your awareness of patterns, themes and behaviours that can protect you from deeper emotions that need to be felt, heard, put into words and acknowledged. This often results in a shift in thinking and behaviours that are more helpful to you, and creates space for sustainable change, or acceptance of a challenging situation.

My own life experiences help me to bring a depth of empathy and compassion to my work, which creates an atmosphere of safety and trust. Maintaining a partnership throughout our time together, is a priority for me. I essentially work from a space of being Person centred (guided by you, without judgement), whilst drawing on various models of counselling, such as Transactional Analysis (TA), Internal Family Systems (IFS, the inner "chatter" of parts of yourself), Somatic therapy (the effects of stress on our bodies), CBT and creative interventions. 

How many sessions

I provide both long and short term therapy. Most people prefer to meet weekly but occasionally, some choose to have fortnightly sessions. We have regular reviews to consider timescales that are appropriate for you.

Cost

Each session lasts an hour and costs £60

Cancellation

There is no charge if cancelled up to 24 hours prior to your appointment. I am flexible and will try to re-schedule when possible.

Qualifications

Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling

CBT for Healthcare professionals (St Christophers)

Advanced Specialist Diploma in Relationship counselling

Registered and Accredited Member of the BACP 

From 2014 to 2024, I worked as an Oncology Counsellor at the Force Cancer Support Centre, Exeter, providing therapy for adults who were affected by cancer. I have experience of co-facilitating groups (The Younger women's breast cancer group, reflective practice for Therapists and Specialist nurses.) 

Previously I worked for almost three decades as a Registered Nurse (Emergency department, Cardiology, Haematology)

It can be challenging to find a counsellor who you are comfortable with, so I offer a brief phone assessment  which is free of charge or, alternatively, an in person meeting for up to an hour, at the usual cost of sessions.

I will take time to understand your reasons for seeking counselling, answer questions you may have and consider what you would like to gain through the sessions. I will be curious about you and may ask questions about your family, friends, interests, work, home, and relationships, which will provide some context for your situation. 

I will explain how I work and encourage you to take time reflect on this. If you feel that you would like to commit to further meetings then, I will offer you a contractual agreement to read and sign before the next session. If, however, I feel that you will benefit from a more specialist service, I will invite you to consider seeking such support.