Counselling for Trauma, Abuse and Emotional Overwhelm
A calm, supportive space to help you make sense of what you've been through and begin to feel more like yourself again.
Trauma-informed integrative counselling
In-person at the Devon Clinic, Paignton and online across the UK
£60 - 50 Minutes
Book a Free 20-minute introductory call
Call 07958230128
MNCPS Acc
FdSc Counselling and Psychology
Hello, I’m Joanna
I’m Joanna Johnson-Laird, an integrative and trauma-informed counsellor.
I support people who have experienced trauma, abuse, difficult relationships and emotional overwhelm, as well as those who simply feel stuck, anxious, disconnected or exhausted from holding everything together.
I know how difficult it can be to reach out for support, particularly if you’ve spent years putting other people’s needs before your own.
My aim is to offer a calm, safe and non-judgemental space where you don’t have to rush, explain everything at once, or talk about anything you’re not ready for.
We work together at your pace, helping you understand what you’ve experienced, how it may still be affecting you today, and what you need to begin moving forward.
Who I Can Support
You don’t need to have experienced trauma or abuse to come to counselling with me. I’m happy to work with whatever is bringing you to therapy.
I do, however, have particular experience supporting people affected by:
- Emotional, physical or sexual abuse
- Childhood trauma, neglect or abandonment
- Coercive or controlling relationships
- Anxiety and emotional overwhelm
- Low self-worth, shame and self-doubt
- People-pleasing and difficult relationship patterns
- Feeling numb, disconnected or stuck
You don’t need to know exactly what you want to talk about or where to begin. We can work that out together.
How I work
My approach is warm, relational, and trauma-informed. We work together at a pace that feels safe for you — with no pressure to explain everything all at once.
I draw on:
Gestalt therapy, which supports self-awareness and expression
Inner child and chairwork, to explore parts of yourself that need care and voice
Nervous system regulation, to help you feel more at home in your body
Creative tools and imagery, especially helpful when words are hard to find. I use these approaches flexibly, depending on what feels most helpful and appropriate for you.
Ready to Talk?
It’s okay if you’re nervous.
I offer a free 20-minute intro call so you can see if I’m the right fit. There’s no pressure just a gentle first step.
Qualifications
Level 3 Diploma in Counselling
FdSc Counselling and Psychology
Certificates
Trauma informed Practice
CPD Sexual abuse
MNCPS (Acc)
Professional indemnity insurance - Howden
Services
60 British pounds