Hello, I'm Petra
I am a therapist based in Taunton and I offer therapy for grief, anxiety and depression issues. My approach to counselling is holistic, which means I see each person as a whole being—mind, body, and spirit. A big part of my work is helping clients understand how the nervous system shapes how we feel, think, and act.
Together, we explore ways to regulate and bring the body back into balance, so that deeper healing can happen without feeling overwhelming.
I also encourage my clients to get to know different ‘parts’ of themselves—the voices, patterns, and roles that show up in our lives. These parts are trying to help and protect us but can show up as inner critic, over achiever and influence things like self-confidence, inner criticism, or even our relationships and sexuality. By getting to know these parts, we can begin to shift the way we relate to them, to ourselves and to the world.
As a counsellor, I welcome people who feel out of step with societal norms or expectations. Much of my own journey has been about questioning those norms, and I understand how isolating it can feel when you don’t fit into what’s considered ‘normal’. This space is for you to show up as you are, without judgment.
My Qualifications
My background in dance and yoga has shown me the power of breath and movement in restoring balance to nervous system, while my training in hypnotherapy adds tools for deep relaxation and inner focus. I bring all these together in my practice, so you can reconnect with yourself in a way that feels supportive and whole.
- Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling, Iron Mill College, Exeter
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BSc Psychology, Birkbeck College, London
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National Autistic Society Non-medical helpers and mentors certificate , Understanding Autism, Autism and communication, Autism and sensory experience, Autism, stress and anxiety, Autism: supporting families, Women and girls on the autism spectrum.
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Cognitive-Behavioural Hypnotherapy, UK College of Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy
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Personal Coaching, Coach U
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Human biology (1 year), Open University
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Online courses in Somatic approaches to Trauma (CPD)
Work Experience
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Specialist Mentoring (Neurodiversity) - I support university students with Autism and ADHD diagnoses. This means supporting students not just academically, but emotionally and practically, helping them navigate challenges such as focus, organisation, managing stress, and adapting to the demands of university life.
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Mental health support worker (Rethink Mental Illness) - I supported clients through both complex mental health needs and the everyday challenges that can come with this.
I genuinely enjoy helping others uncover the strengths they may not yet see in themselves, and every client I've worked with has shown incredible courage and resilience as they come to realise their own inner strength.
Work with me
Counselling isn’t about quick fixes; it’s about helping you discover your own strength and creating meaningful, lasting change. I became a counsellor because I wanted to pass on the knowledge .
I work with people who are navigating challenges like stress, loss, or major life transitions, and I offer a space where you can talk openly, explore your thoughts and feelings, body sensations associated with those and take steps toward healing and growth.
My approach is compassionate, down-to-earth, and focused on what matters most to you.
As your therapist, my goal is to create a space where you feel grounded and supported. Together we’ll work on finding balance in your body and mind, so the harder stuff feels easier to face without becoming overwhelming. I’ll listen closely, ask questions that help you see things in new ways, and be right there with you as we sort through the tough parts.