What is Counselling?
Counselling is a space where you can talk openly about what you’ve been through, at your own pace, in a way that feels safe for you.
If you have experienced abuse or trauma, it can be hard to put things into words. You might feel overwhelmed, confused, or unsure of how to move forward. Counselling gives you the time and support to explore your thoughts and feelings without pressure or judgement.
You are always in control of what you share. Nothing has to be rushed.
Your counsellor will listen carefully and respectfully. They won’t tell you what to do or push you in any direction. Instead, they will support you to understand your experiences, make sense of your feelings, and find ways of coping that feel right for you.
Together, you can begin to:
- feel safer in your thoughts and body
- understand how trauma has affected you
- build self-trust and confidence
- find ways to cope with difficult emotions
- move towards a life that feels more stable and hopeful
What can counselling help with?
Counselling can support you if you are living with the impact of abuse or trauma, whether it happened recently or in the past.
At Quetzal, we support women who are recovering from childhood abuse and its lasting effects. You might come to counselling because:
- You feel anxious, low, or emotionally overwhelmed
- You struggle with self-esteem or self-worth
- You are coping with depression, anxiety, eating difficulties, addiction, or personality-related challenges
- You are dealing with the impact of a physical health condition
- You have experienced a difficult life event, such as bereavement, relationship breakdown, or further abuse
- You feel unable to talk to people close to you and want a safe, confidential space
- You are having distressing thoughts or feelings and don’t know how to manage them
You don’t need to have the “right words” or a clear reason to come. If something doesn’t feel right, that is enough.


