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About Sarah Whitford

MNCPS (Accred) | Integrative counselling: Person-Centred, CBT and Gestalt | Adults and young adults | UK and worldwide

Hi, I'm Sarah Whitford

I’m an NCPS Accredited Therapeutic Counsellor offering counselling online via Zoom, by telephone, and face-to-face in Torbay, South Devon.

People often come to me when they’re feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in patterns that are affecting their wellbeing and relationships. You may be living with anxiety, low mood, loneliness, burnout, low self-esteem, trauma, or the impact of a difficult life transition.

My role is to offer a calm, confidential space where you can speak openly, feel truly listened to, and begin making sense of what you’re going through.

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My Approach

I offer a warm, empathic and non-judgemental therapeutic space, grounded in professional knowledge and understanding. My work is integrative and person-centred, which means our sessions are tailored to you, your pace, and what you want to achieve over time.

Together we can explore what’s happening beneath the surface, process the emotional impact of what you’re carrying, and develop coping strategies that feel practical and supportive in everyday life, you will no longer be alone in managing your worries. I will support you throughout each session.

Over time, clients are often supported to build resilience, self-awareness and confidence, moving forward with greater intention and clarity.

Our first therapy session together will be taken at your pace with no pressure to share anything you don’t want to unless you feel ready. I always work within professional boundaries and ethics.

I believe counselling should never feel like a one-sided “tick box” process. This is your space, and your story matters.

Who I Work With

I work with adults and young people, supporting clients with a wide range of concerns, including:

Anxiety, panic and overthinking
Depression and low mood
Work-related stress, burnout and overwhelm
Loneliness and isolation
Low confidence and low self-esteem
Trauma and life transitions
Bereavement, grief and loss
Attachment issues
Addiction (and the impact addiction can have on individuals and families)
Neurodiversity (including ADHD, autism, dyslexia and dyspraxia)

If you’re unsure whether I’m the right counsellor for you, you’re welcome to book a free introductory call.

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Experience and Background

I have over 15 years’ experience supporting people through emotional difficulties, life changes, and the pressures of modern life.

Alongside my private practice, I have worked with Young Devon, supporting young people aged 11 to 25 who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, self-harm, emotional or physical abuse, bereavement, and loss of family support.

My previous roles have also included working within a fostering agency, supporting carers and families in care. This gave me a deeper understanding of the impact of trauma, loss, and vulnerability, and the importance of helping people feel heard and empowered to make their own choices.

Earlier in my career, I worked as a pastoral and safeguarding manager within an educational setting. During this time I supported students experiencing anxiety, school phobia, bullying, family breakdown, addiction, low mood, learning difficulties, disability, and complex personal circumstances.

I have also volunteered as a telephone counsellor with Age UKduring the COVID-19 Pandemic, supporting vulnerable adults experiencing isolation, anxiety, depression, trauma and bereavement. This gave me an increased awareness of how the pandemic impacted people's lives then and now.

Training and Qualifications

My training and professional development includes:

Advanced Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (CBT, Gestalt & Person-Centred Therapy)
Level 3 Foundation Certificate in Counselling
Cruse Bereavement Training (Foundation Bereavement)
BSc (Hons) Open University (2:1) Social Sciences
Diploma in Systemic Coaching (Murphy Bishop 2025)
Dissociation & DID - The Fundamentals (Carolyn Spring)
Mental Health & The Body; Treating Trauma (Carolyn Spring)
Treating Generalised Anxiety Disorder & Panic Attacks
Breath-Based Mindfulness for Neurodivergent Minds (Dr Emma Bede)
Dyslexia and Dyspraxia Awareness
Safeguarding
Attachment Training

I continue to develop my skills and knowledge so I can offer clients support that is professional, ethical and effective.

A Personal Note

I understand personally how suddenly life can change. I have lived through cancer and the loss of “normal” life, and I know how isolating it can feel when you’re trying to find your way through the unknown.

This experience, alongside my professional background, shapes the way I work. I bring empathy, steadiness and respect to each session, offering a safe space for you to process what you’re going through and begin moving forward.