LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Exeter, ENG

Photo of Zoe Powell Martin, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Zoe Powell Martin
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX6  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Zoe - it's a pleasure to meet you. I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy. I provide a warm, safe and nurturing space to support you on your therapeutic journey. As a therapist, I am committed to ensure that your therapy sessions are co-constructed to meet your individual therapeutic needs. Benefitting from shared-decision making, a focus on therapeutic direction as well as empathy, support, compassion and attention, you can expect a uniquely inclusive and collaborative therapeutic experience.
Hello, I'm Zoe - it's a pleasure to meet you. I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy. I provide a warm, safe and nurturing space to support you on your therapeutic journey. As a therapist, I am committed to ensure that your therapy sessions are co-constructed to meet your individual therapeutic needs. Benefitting from shared-decision making, a focus on therapeutic direction as well as empathy, support, compassion and attention, you can expect a uniquely inclusive and collaborative therapeutic experience.
01363 722166 View 01363 722166
Photo of Rea Pearson, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Rea Pearson
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Exeter EX2
Experienced & BACP Accredited, sex-positive Gender, Sexuality & Relationship Diversity (GSRD) therapist working with LGBTQIA+ people. Knowledgable about gender, sexuality, transitioning, polyamory, consensual & ethical non-monogamy (CNM/ENM), open relationships, kink, BDSM, D/s, fetishes, sexual Issues, sex workers, swinging, munches, and sex parties. All genders and sexualities welcome. I support people with opening up relationships, or who are into, or experimenting with, kinks or power play. I also see a lot of trans and non-binary clients. I am a fully qualified sex therapist so can help with most sexual issues.
Experienced & BACP Accredited, sex-positive Gender, Sexuality & Relationship Diversity (GSRD) therapist working with LGBTQIA+ people. Knowledgable about gender, sexuality, transitioning, polyamory, consensual & ethical non-monogamy (CNM/ENM), open relationships, kink, BDSM, D/s, fetishes, sexual Issues, sex workers, swinging, munches, and sex parties. All genders and sexualities welcome. I support people with opening up relationships, or who are into, or experimenting with, kinks or power play. I also see a lot of trans and non-binary clients. I am a fully qualified sex therapist so can help with most sexual issues.
01392 531579 View 01392 531579
Photo of Rebecca Harp, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap., Psychotherapist
Rebecca Harp
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
I have experience working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, stress and burnout, trauma, loss and major life transitions, existential and spiritual exploration, severe PMS and Pre-Menstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), image-based abuse, miscarriage and pregnancy loss, fertility treatment, pregnancy, birth, post-natal anxiety and post-natal depression. I also have specialist experience of working with the LGBTQ+ community, supporting individuals with issues such as coming out, gender dysphoria, transitioning, LGBTQ+ fertility treatment and parenting, family rejection and internalised homophobia.
I have experience working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, stress and burnout, trauma, loss and major life transitions, existential and spiritual exploration, severe PMS and Pre-Menstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), image-based abuse, miscarriage and pregnancy loss, fertility treatment, pregnancy, birth, post-natal anxiety and post-natal depression. I also have specialist experience of working with the LGBTQ+ community, supporting individuals with issues such as coming out, gender dysphoria, transitioning, LGBTQ+ fertility treatment and parenting, family rejection and internalised homophobia.
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Photo of Marley Raven, MBACP, Counsellor
Marley Raven
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4  (Online Only)
I mainly work with LGBTQ+ adults who wish to meet a counsellor where those aspects of their identity will not be unnecessarily questioned or looked at, but can be spoken about respectfully and safely. I aim to offer you a sense of hope and empowerment, along with techniques you could use in your life to enhance or help you cope with your experience of existence. I can support you to explore whatever is going on in your life such as stress, grief (including for loss of pets), exploring gender identity, exploring sexuality, body image, anxiety or depression.
I mainly work with LGBTQ+ adults who wish to meet a counsellor where those aspects of their identity will not be unnecessarily questioned or looked at, but can be spoken about respectfully and safely. I aim to offer you a sense of hope and empowerment, along with techniques you could use in your life to enhance or help you cope with your experience of existence. I can support you to explore whatever is going on in your life such as stress, grief (including for loss of pets), exploring gender identity, exploring sexuality, body image, anxiety or depression.
01392 531594 View 01392 531594
Photo of Max Cohen, MBACP, Counsellor
Max Cohen
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX2
I work with individuals and couples aged 18+ on all issues. I specialise in trans+ (genderqueer, non-binary), LGBTQ+ issues & family support. I'm an Advanced Accredited Gender, Sex and Relationship Diversities Therapist (Pink Therapy). I also have over 25 years of experience of support work in areas such as living with HIV, recovering from domestic abuse, young people's issues, neurodiverse awareness and work-related issues such as discrimination.
I work with individuals and couples aged 18+ on all issues. I specialise in trans+ (genderqueer, non-binary), LGBTQ+ issues & family support. I'm an Advanced Accredited Gender, Sex and Relationship Diversities Therapist (Pink Therapy). I also have over 25 years of experience of support work in areas such as living with HIV, recovering from domestic abuse, young people's issues, neurodiverse awareness and work-related issues such as discrimination.
01392 349025 View 01392 349025
Photo of Sabrina Andrews-Webb - Bluebird Counselling and Psychotherapy, MA, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Bluebird Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
I have worked with many different people - with different needs - from people recovering from addiction(s), people living with feelings of depression and anxiety, neurodivergent folks, to those coping with bereavement and people dealing with abuse, violence and trauma. I'm especially passionate about working with people with traumatic life experiences and those from the LGBTQ+ community. I am a cisgender bisexual and queer woman and I use she/her pronouns. I work with an open-mindset and am poly/kink/bsdm aware. I work in a gender affirming way. I pride myself on being warm, friendly and down-to-earth.
I have worked with many different people - with different needs - from people recovering from addiction(s), people living with feelings of depression and anxiety, neurodivergent folks, to those coping with bereavement and people dealing with abuse, violence and trauma. I'm especially passionate about working with people with traumatic life experiences and those from the LGBTQ+ community. I am a cisgender bisexual and queer woman and I use she/her pronouns. I work with an open-mindset and am poly/kink/bsdm aware. I work in a gender affirming way. I pride myself on being warm, friendly and down-to-earth.
01626 242933 View 01626 242933
Photo of Lucy Perkins - Lucy Perkins Counselling, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Lucy Perkins Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
I have an extensive background working with both eating disorders and gender identity and I am a proud ally of the LGBTQIA+ community.
A very warm welcome to you. I work with a person centred approach, ensuring our sessions feel right for you as a unique individual. My style of counselling is non-directive, relaxed and inclusive, which means our work together is designed around what you want and need. The work is supportive and respectful as we go at your pace and my aim is to get alongside you on your path, helping you explore your world to find understanding, clarity or solution. Sessions are centered around you and how you experience yourself and the world around you. You are free to come as you are and be accepted, as you are.
I have an extensive background working with both eating disorders and gender identity and I am a proud ally of the LGBTQIA+ community.
A very warm welcome to you. I work with a person centred approach, ensuring our sessions feel right for you as a unique individual. My style of counselling is non-directive, relaxed and inclusive, which means our work together is designed around what you want and need. The work is supportive and respectful as we go at your pace and my aim is to get alongside you on your path, helping you explore your world to find understanding, clarity or solution. Sessions are centered around you and how you experience yourself and the world around you. You are free to come as you are and be accepted, as you are.
01392 690513 View 01392 690513
Photo of Paul Brennan, MBACP, Counsellor
Paul Brennan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX2
I offer both in person and online support for people experiencing grief, loss or struggling with change. This can be bereavement, loss of a job, end of a relationship or simply feeling a bit lost in life itself. I also work with men's issues as well as LGBT concerns. I offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space to unpack issues, explore your feelings and better understand what is going on for you. You may be feeling lost, anxious, uncertain or scared. That's understandable. That's okay. Considering counselling is a brave step. Well done for coming this far. Let's work together to try and find a way forward for you.
I offer both in person and online support for people experiencing grief, loss or struggling with change. This can be bereavement, loss of a job, end of a relationship or simply feeling a bit lost in life itself. I also work with men's issues as well as LGBT concerns. I offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space to unpack issues, explore your feelings and better understand what is going on for you. You may be feeling lost, anxious, uncertain or scared. That's understandable. That's okay. Considering counselling is a brave step. Well done for coming this far. Let's work together to try and find a way forward for you.
07710 299651 View 07710 299651
Photo of James Pegg, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
James Pegg
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, low mood or are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, call for a free initial session. I am an experienced counsellor with proven success in helping people navigate these issues and get to a better place. My name is James and I am a male counsellor based in Exeter. I am here to support you with a whole range of issues that you may be dealing with, such as stress, anxiety, depression, grief and/or relationships to name but a few. I also have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ clients.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, low mood or are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, call for a free initial session. I am an experienced counsellor with proven success in helping people navigate these issues and get to a better place. My name is James and I am a male counsellor based in Exeter. I am here to support you with a whole range of issues that you may be dealing with, such as stress, anxiety, depression, grief and/or relationships to name but a few. I also have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ clients.
01392 321369 View 01392 321369
Photo of Jessica Sings, MBACP, Counsellor
Jessica Sings
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
I hear from clients so many times how they feel defected, unlovable and unworthy. I’m here to tell you that its ok to be you! The first step is reaching out for help. The second step is being brave enough to let me walk alongside you through the difficult feelings that you have been carrying for so long. We will get to the other side of healing together. I am a open-minded counsellor, sex-positive, LGBTQIA+, Gender, Sexuality & Relationship Diversity (GSRD) affirming. Also working with clients who are diagnosed or self-diagnosed as neurodivergent (ASD, OCD, ADHD).
I hear from clients so many times how they feel defected, unlovable and unworthy. I’m here to tell you that its ok to be you! The first step is reaching out for help. The second step is being brave enough to let me walk alongside you through the difficult feelings that you have been carrying for so long. We will get to the other side of healing together. I am a open-minded counsellor, sex-positive, LGBTQIA+, Gender, Sexuality & Relationship Diversity (GSRD) affirming. Also working with clients who are diagnosed or self-diagnosed as neurodivergent (ASD, OCD, ADHD).
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Photo of Lina Chen, MSc, COSRT Accred, Psychotherapist
Lina Chen
Psychotherapist, MSc, COSRT Accred
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4  (Online Only)
I'm an integrative psychotherapist specialising in psychosexual and relationship therapy. I trained with London Diploma in Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy and am a registered member of COSRT. I'm passionate about my work, supporting individuals and couples from all backgrounds including sexual trauma survivors, migrants, LGBTQ+, and GSRD. I offer therapy for a wide range of sexual and relationship issues. I tailor my therapeutic tools and approaches to individual clients’ needs. These include CBT, attachment theory, psychodynamic therapy, imago therapy and existential therapy in addition to a wide range of psychosexual tools.
I'm an integrative psychotherapist specialising in psychosexual and relationship therapy. I trained with London Diploma in Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy and am a registered member of COSRT. I'm passionate about my work, supporting individuals and couples from all backgrounds including sexual trauma survivors, migrants, LGBTQ+, and GSRD. I offer therapy for a wide range of sexual and relationship issues. I tailor my therapeutic tools and approaches to individual clients’ needs. These include CBT, attachment theory, psychodynamic therapy, imago therapy and existential therapy in addition to a wide range of psychosexual tools.
01803 221489 View 01803 221489
Photo of Mel Ciavucco - Mel Ciavucco Counselling & Training , MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Mel Ciavucco Counselling & Training
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Mel. I'm an online Integrative counsellor. I'm passionate about helping people with disordered eating, eating disorders & body image problems, as well as helping with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity and self-worth & more. I work with people with anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, binge eating, OSFED - but importantly, you don't need a label to access help. I support people with a range of eating and body image issues, to include weight/shape concerns & dieting. I am neuro-affirmative and work with clients with autism, ADHD and other kinds of neurodivergence. I am LGBTQ+ friendly, weight-inclusive & trauma-informed.
Hi, I'm Mel. I'm an online Integrative counsellor. I'm passionate about helping people with disordered eating, eating disorders & body image problems, as well as helping with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity and self-worth & more. I work with people with anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, binge eating, OSFED - but importantly, you don't need a label to access help. I support people with a range of eating and body image issues, to include weight/shape concerns & dieting. I am neuro-affirmative and work with clients with autism, ADHD and other kinds of neurodivergence. I am LGBTQ+ friendly, weight-inclusive & trauma-informed.
0117 463 3599 View 0117 463 3599
Photo of Kate Kenzie, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Kate Kenzie
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
Life can feel like hard work sometimes; we get lost in the busy-ness of doing life, forgetting how to be; existing instead of living. Life events - past or present - can leave us feeling anxious, distressed, lacking in confidence, low, disconnected, or there's something wrong that you can't put into words. Coming to terms with a loss of someone/something? Have a concern you can't see how to deal with? Struggling with, or questioning, your identity or sexuality & unable to talk to family or friends? Do you have beliefs about yourself that you grew up with, feelings of "I'm not good enough"? If so, then talking about it can help.
Life can feel like hard work sometimes; we get lost in the busy-ness of doing life, forgetting how to be; existing instead of living. Life events - past or present - can leave us feeling anxious, distressed, lacking in confidence, low, disconnected, or there's something wrong that you can't put into words. Coming to terms with a loss of someone/something? Have a concern you can't see how to deal with? Struggling with, or questioning, your identity or sexuality & unable to talk to family or friends? Do you have beliefs about yourself that you grew up with, feelings of "I'm not good enough"? If so, then talking about it can help.
01392 321713 View 01392 321713
Photo of Heather Beveridge, MSc, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Heather Beveridge
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
Is your life overwhelming? Is your mental health suffering?Do you feel that you need to offload and share whatever difficulties you may be facing? Are you are looking for a counsellor or psychotherapist that actively listens and understands? I am an experienced mental health practitioners and here to help. Sometimes children and young people get stuck and need a little help too. I also have a great deal of experience working with children and young people. When your child is struggling, trying to get help can feel an impossible task. I offer creative therapy without the stress of a long waiting list.
Is your life overwhelming? Is your mental health suffering?Do you feel that you need to offload and share whatever difficulties you may be facing? Are you are looking for a counsellor or psychotherapist that actively listens and understands? I am an experienced mental health practitioners and here to help. Sometimes children and young people get stuck and need a little help too. I also have a great deal of experience working with children and young people. When your child is struggling, trying to get help can feel an impossible task. I offer creative therapy without the stress of a long waiting list.
01392 321603 View 01392 321603
Photo of Lucy Skye, MBACP, Counsellor
Lucy Skye
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
You found your way here because of your strength. I understand how hard it can be to reach out and look for change. Our work will start by honouring your strength and supporting you to hold and ease the challenges that you are experiencing. Therapy offers you place for you to bring whatever you are seeking to change or understand. Together we will resource you to adapt to physical and emotional shifts, increase your awareness of your needs, and to feel more present and content in your life.
You found your way here because of your strength. I understand how hard it can be to reach out and look for change. Our work will start by honouring your strength and supporting you to hold and ease the challenges that you are experiencing. Therapy offers you place for you to bring whatever you are seeking to change or understand. Together we will resource you to adapt to physical and emotional shifts, increase your awareness of your needs, and to feel more present and content in your life.
0117 463 7304 View 0117 463 7304
Photo of Lucile Munster - Kind Humans Counselling : Empowering ADHD journeys, MBACP, Counsellor
Kind Humans Counselling : Empowering ADHD journeys
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Exeter EX1  (Online Only)
ADHD does not come with a user manual. The growing recognition of ADHD among adults has left many feeling helpless, yet with a strong desire for change. I support adults, whether formally diagnosed or not, to understand themselves, identify strengths and needs, and pursue fulfilling lives.
ADHD does not come with a user manual. The growing recognition of ADHD among adults has left many feeling helpless, yet with a strong desire for change. I support adults, whether formally diagnosed or not, to understand themselves, identify strengths and needs, and pursue fulfilling lives.
01823 589497 View 01823 589497
Photo of Hannah Lock, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Hannah Lock
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1  (Online Only)
Therapy can support us through our difficulties and towards our goals or help us to explore and understand ourselves better. My role is to support you through the process in a safe and supportive space at your own pace to find your way through these difficulties. I work with many areas including, trauma, depression, low self esteem, issues around gender, sexuality and relationship diversities. I offer a variety of therapy options to suit your particular needs.
Therapy can support us through our difficulties and towards our goals or help us to explore and understand ourselves better. My role is to support you through the process in a safe and supportive space at your own pace to find your way through these difficulties. I work with many areas including, trauma, depression, low self esteem, issues around gender, sexuality and relationship diversities. I offer a variety of therapy options to suit your particular needs.
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Photo of Karl Borthwick, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Karl Borthwick
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1  (Online Only)
I specialise in working with clients with PTSD and trauma based symptoms. I also work with OCD and other mental health problem, through the use of CBT & EMDR. CBT works by the theory that we can manage and modulate our emotions through evaluating/changing our cognitions & behaviours accordingly. EMDR utilises bilateral stimulation (eye movements) to aid the reprocessing of symptoms of Trauma and PTSD, focusing on trauma memories whilst integrating and updating these with Adaptive Information Processing, aiding resolution of symptoms in the present
I specialise in working with clients with PTSD and trauma based symptoms. I also work with OCD and other mental health problem, through the use of CBT & EMDR. CBT works by the theory that we can manage and modulate our emotions through evaluating/changing our cognitions & behaviours accordingly. EMDR utilises bilateral stimulation (eye movements) to aid the reprocessing of symptoms of Trauma and PTSD, focusing on trauma memories whilst integrating and updating these with Adaptive Information Processing, aiding resolution of symptoms in the present
01572 491102 View 01572 491102
Photo of Samantha Barlow, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Samantha Barlow
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
Life can be challenging. I offer a caring environment free from judgment for you to explore your feelings. I will work alongside you to develop life-changing habits and help you become the person you wish to be. I have a special interest in working with relationship difficulties, such as separation, divorce, affairs, control or abuse, stepfamily issues and parenting. I am a Relate trained, CPCAB Level 5 relational counsellor. I also work extensively with life stage transitions, such as adolescence, parenthood, menopause, older adults and bereavement. I am passionate about supporting people on their journey for meaning and purpose.
Life can be challenging. I offer a caring environment free from judgment for you to explore your feelings. I will work alongside you to develop life-changing habits and help you become the person you wish to be. I have a special interest in working with relationship difficulties, such as separation, divorce, affairs, control or abuse, stepfamily issues and parenting. I am a Relate trained, CPCAB Level 5 relational counsellor. I also work extensively with life stage transitions, such as adolescence, parenthood, menopause, older adults and bereavement. I am passionate about supporting people on their journey for meaning and purpose.
01392 321428 View 01392 321428
Photo of Saskia Layburn, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Saskia Layburn
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
It's natural to feel a little bit hesitant or nervous when looking for someone to talk to. It's a big step.  If you're reading this, you've already made that step into looking into your options. That's something in itself.  When, or if, you feel that you are ready to contact someone. Know that I hold a safe space and a listening ear. My aim? To give you space to put out the fires and create more space for the process of change to begin.
It's natural to feel a little bit hesitant or nervous when looking for someone to talk to. It's a big step.  If you're reading this, you've already made that step into looking into your options. That's something in itself.  When, or if, you feel that you are ready to contact someone. Know that I hold a safe space and a listening ear. My aim? To give you space to put out the fires and create more space for the process of change to begin.
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LGBTQ+ Counsellors

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialised training, either during their degree programme or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalisation in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialised training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.