Sara Drew MA Cantab, MBACP (Accred), Counselling and Supervision.

About me

My counselling practice is based in central Exeter and Honiton (just 15 minutes by car from M5 junction 29 and accessible via the A30 and A35).

It can be a real challenge to progress from thinking about counselling to actually starting. With more than 11 years’ experience in private practice and other settings, I offer a warm welcome and a safe, non-judgemental space to explore what is going on for you.

My mission is to help you understand and make sense of your life and make choices that enable you live as fully and as meaningfully as possible. My values are honesty, courage and integrity.

I describe myself as a relational integrative counsellor which means how we relate to each other is at the core of the process and the tools and methods come second. Research shows the relationship between client and counsellor is one of the most important factors in getting a successful outcome. I am trained in humanistic, cognitive behavioural and psychodynamic approaches, so there is a wide range of interventions to draw from based on what suits you best.

What I offer you.

We use the sessions to explore whatever you want, whether that is issues from the past, difficulties in the present, or concerns about the future. Often all three can be linked. We work at your pace, with your agenda: I see you as your own best expert. Ultimately, it’s a bit like climbing a mountain with a guide: I have various ropes and bits of equipment but you are free to make the journey your own way.

I have worked successfully with a range of clients and issues, including anxiety and depression, loss and bereavement, relationship difficulties, addiction, compulsive behaviour, anger and rage, childhood issues and life transitions. I enjoy working with all adults regardless of age, disability or sexuality–if we can make a connection we can work together.

I also offer sessions in Voice Dialogue. This is a way of connecting with, and speaking from, the many parts that make up the whole of a person. Think of your roles: professional, parenting, partner, capable, responsible, demanding, vulnerable, angry, sad, judging, self-critical, expressive, withdrawing etc. Any of these can be to the fore at different times and by accessing and speaking from these parts, greater insight and freedom of choice can be realised.

There is also the option of outdoor sessions based in lovely private woodlands near Escot in East Devon. These sessions offer an opportunity to slow down and reconnect with the natural world and explore what your encounter with nature can tell you about your life.

My phone number is confidential and dedicated to my counselling service. Please, do call, e-mail or text me and I will get back to you promptly.

Please see my website for my privacy policy. www.ottercounselling.co.uk