Pat Hoare

It's not unusual that someone needs to find a counsellor at a time when they are not thinking or feeling at their best, such as when they are depressed, anxious or bereaved. This may lead to them feeling vulnerable and unsure about how to take the next step, where to begin and how to have some control in the process.

I first trained and later qualified with Marriage Guidance in 1975 so now have over 40 years experience as a counsellor. Before setting up my private practice in Exeter I worked in many different settings and agencies during which time I studied and gained a Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling. I have experience in working with addiction, depression, loss, bereavement, relationships, attachment bonds and sexual issues.

My experience is that counselling is a way of stepping back and getting space from difficulties when we feel stuck, despairing, overwhelmed or out of control.

Rather like a guide who can help us navigate uncharted waters or foreign lands; my work is to support you in finding ways to explore difficult areas of your life such as painful emotions, bereavement, questions of identity, relationship issues, abuse and trauma to enable you to find a way through and discover your own answers and wisdom.

I qualified as a therapeutic counsellor in 2012 and since then have worked with adults and young people (16 years and above) in short and long-term work. I have worked as a counsellor in local educational settings for many years, and I also have experience of counselling clients with issues arising from adoption.

I am a warm, compassionate and experienced counsellor skilled in offering a non-judgmental, supportive and understanding service in a safe and confidential environment. I am a registered member of the BACP and abide by their code of ethics. I trained and qualified as a Humanistic counsellor in 2012 and have been working with adults in both short term and long-term work since then.