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Waves on the ocean near Plymouth symbolising resilience, change and emotional strength through counselling.
Karen Toms, counsellor in Plymouth offering online and in-person counselling for anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism and eating concerns.

My approach to counselling

I’m a counsellor who helps people understand what shapes their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and supports them to create positive, lasting change in their life story.

Many of my clients come to counselling because they’re struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism or a difficult relationship food or body image. Together, we explore the patterns beneath these feelings so you can find calm, confidence and a stronger sense of self.

I offer counselling in Plymouth and Tavistock and online and by telephone across the UK and internationally, giving you the flexibility to choose the space that feels right for you.

'You' Centred Counselling

Each session is focused on your unique needs and goals. Whether you want to explore specific challenges, patterns, or emotions, counselling is your time and space to talk and gain a better understanding of yourself.

Creating a Safe Space

I aim to make you feel at ease so you can talk openly and honestly. Together we’ll explore what’s been happening in a way that feels safe and supportive.

A Human Connection

Counselling isn’t always heavy. I bring warmth, curiosity, and a sense of humour. Together, we’ll allow space for both difficult emotions and lighter moments.

Believing in You

I’ll support you to nurture self-belief and create the inner conditions that allow you to flourish.

how I got here

Why I'm a counsellor

My motivation comes from three things:

1. To help people through their challenges and support them in becoming their true self.

2. Knowing first-hand how life-changing a positive counselling experience can be.

3. A desire to normalise therapy and promote the connection between mental and physical wellbeing.

qualifications & skills

My expertise

I have an Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling and a MSc Psychology. As a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and the British Psychological Society, I am committed to a programme of ongoing professional development.

I combine my counselling training with 15 years’ experience as a career coach and my research into mental wellbeing. Drawing on this, I offer a holistic, you-centred approach that supports both emotional and practical aspects of change.

testimonials

What My Clients Say

I have been working with Karen for over a year now, and I have found it tremendously productive and helpful. When we began working together, I was depressed and fearful about life. With Karen’s help, I am now joyful and excited about the future.

Online Client

With Karen I feel safe and supported to reveal all sorts of aspects of myself and to explore uncomfortable and difficult topics. Her wise and thoughtful feedback has helped me to realise and understand many things that are going on for me, and to find ways to work with them.

Online Client

With a calm, gentle, clarity Karen was able to gently help me to question and diminish unhelpful behaviours while focusing on increasing my self-belief.

Face-to-Face Client

Karen is empathetic, compassionate and professional. Through her calm and patient approach, she has helped me to gain the confidence to explore difficult issues.

Telephone Client

Karen listens closely and I have greatly benefitted from her thoughtful and insightful questions and reflections. I am so grateful for her encouragement and support which has enabled me to make positive changes in my life.

Telephone Client

I find working with Karen great fun – she brings humour and intelligence to our sessions and I always look forward to speaking with her.

Online Client

Why I believe in counselling

The most important relationship we can all have is the one you have with yourself, the most important journey you can take is one of self-discovery.

Aristotle