LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Merstham, ENG

Photo of Samantha Parsons, MBACP, Counsellor
Samantha Parsons
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Merstham RH1
There may be times in life where you feel that you are on your own, and you put a brave face on because you don't want to burden others for fear that they won't understand what you're going through. As a Therapist I would like to provide the safe space for you to explore these feelings. Hello, my name is Sam, I am a qualified experienced Counsellor practising in Horley & Coulsdon areas of Surrey. As a counsellor I aim to provide a warm, empathic, non-judgmental, safe space to listen, reflect and provide emotional support. I offer an external relationship away from distractions to focus on you.
There may be times in life where you feel that you are on your own, and you put a brave face on because you don't want to burden others for fear that they won't understand what you're going through. As a Therapist I would like to provide the safe space for you to explore these feelings. Hello, my name is Sam, I am a qualified experienced Counsellor practising in Horley & Coulsdon areas of Surrey. As a counsellor I aim to provide a warm, empathic, non-judgmental, safe space to listen, reflect and provide emotional support. I offer an external relationship away from distractions to focus on you.
01260 541562 View 01260 541562
Photo of Ashley Lowings, MBACP, Counsellor
Ashley Lowings
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Merstham RH1
'Counselling, a step in the right direction' Are you experiencing difficulties In your life and need someone to talk to about how you are feeling? Needing help and support through challenging times? I am a qualified, experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist with experience in a wide range of issues from depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem, anger and bereavement.
'Counselling, a step in the right direction' Are you experiencing difficulties In your life and need someone to talk to about how you are feeling? Needing help and support through challenging times? I am a qualified, experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist with experience in a wide range of issues from depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem, anger and bereavement.
01737 924974 View 01737 924974
Photo of Maria Harding - Psychotherapy Surrey Hills, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Psychotherapy Surrey Hills
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Merstham RH1
We seek psychological help for many reasons. Not only can psychological therapy help when life feels intolerably difficult, but it can also make an “ok” life more fulfilling. Therapy can help to reduce emotional suffering, support change, and promote personal growth. It is a collaborative process and the insight gained can help us look at life from a different perspective and enable us to respond differently to life’s challenges. People often seek support when they are facing life transitions or feel stuck in their lives.
We seek psychological help for many reasons. Not only can psychological therapy help when life feels intolerably difficult, but it can also make an “ok” life more fulfilling. Therapy can help to reduce emotional suffering, support change, and promote personal growth. It is a collaborative process and the insight gained can help us look at life from a different perspective and enable us to respond differently to life’s challenges. People often seek support when they are facing life transitions or feel stuck in their lives.
01737 924407 View 01737 924407
Photo of Katrina Voysey, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Katrina Voysey
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Merstham RH1
With 30 years experience, I offer a safe, non-judgemental and creative space to explore personal or relationship concerns. Psychotherapy can help you to cope better with difficult experiences, to change your behaviours & attitudes, to resolve your problems and to develop resources for a more enriching life. Relational or couples counselling can help you repair relationships blighted by vicious arguments, affairs, mistrust, sexual issues, control, boredom or a deadening growing apart. Working with me can set your relationship back on course for better, more fulfilling times; or it can ease the difficulties of a breakup.
With 30 years experience, I offer a safe, non-judgemental and creative space to explore personal or relationship concerns. Psychotherapy can help you to cope better with difficult experiences, to change your behaviours & attitudes, to resolve your problems and to develop resources for a more enriching life. Relational or couples counselling can help you repair relationships blighted by vicious arguments, affairs, mistrust, sexual issues, control, boredom or a deadening growing apart. Working with me can set your relationship back on course for better, more fulfilling times; or it can ease the difficulties of a breakup.
020 3948 6490 View 020 3948 6490

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Johnny Donnelly, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Johnny Donnelly
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sutton SM3
As a gay man myself, I understand often complex issues and emotions of everyday life, and can offer you a warm, welcoming space to explore your feelings in a safe environment.
Sometimes, being part of the LGBTQ+ community can be a very lonely existence, and we are not all ‘out and proud’ or lucky enough to feel part of a wider LGBTQ+ family. You may be experiencing isolation, shame, or perhaps you have faced rejection from your family or friends. I do not assume that your struggles are related to your sexuality or gender, but if you are trying to deal with something specific in your personal life, or are simply overwhelmed and feeling alone in your current situation, I can offer you a private and non-judgemental space for the exploration of anything which may be causing you pain.
As a gay man myself, I understand often complex issues and emotions of everyday life, and can offer you a warm, welcoming space to explore your feelings in a safe environment.
Sometimes, being part of the LGBTQ+ community can be a very lonely existence, and we are not all ‘out and proud’ or lucky enough to feel part of a wider LGBTQ+ family. You may be experiencing isolation, shame, or perhaps you have faced rejection from your family or friends. I do not assume that your struggles are related to your sexuality or gender, but if you are trying to deal with something specific in your personal life, or are simply overwhelmed and feeling alone in your current situation, I can offer you a private and non-judgemental space for the exploration of anything which may be causing you pain.
01353 885158 View 01353 885158
Photo of Thomas Smithson, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Thomas Smithson
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Croydon CR0  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Tom, and my aim is to offer you a supportive and kind space to experience change, healing and to help you explore whatever it is you are going through. Much of my work supports clients with depression, anxiety, relationships, connection, identity, self-esteem, existential thoughts and the search for meaning. You might also be going through life changes, looking to explore yourself or understand, challenge & change behaviours. I work with all adults and specialise in working with queer communities & those who are neurodivergent. These will be your sessions and I aim to help you work towards whatever goals you have.
Hello, my name is Tom, and my aim is to offer you a supportive and kind space to experience change, healing and to help you explore whatever it is you are going through. Much of my work supports clients with depression, anxiety, relationships, connection, identity, self-esteem, existential thoughts and the search for meaning. You might also be going through life changes, looking to explore yourself or understand, challenge & change behaviours. I work with all adults and specialise in working with queer communities & those who are neurodivergent. These will be your sessions and I aim to help you work towards whatever goals you have.
01798 305067 View 01798 305067
Photo of Sally Coombe, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Sally Coombe
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Epsom KT17
Waitlist for new clients
I am an LGBTQIA ally and an affirmative therapist.
You may be reading this as you’re finding things in life difficult at the moment. You may be struggling with thoughts or certain circumstances, maybe you can’t pin point what you’re going through; you just know you need some support. I offer you a safe and non judgmental space to explore what is happening, and help you to understand why you’re feeling the way you are. I personalise my work with you and provide tools to support you to work through the difficulties you are experiencing. You may be searching for the right counsellor, or you may be the parent/carer of a young person who needs support.
I am an LGBTQIA ally and an affirmative therapist.
You may be reading this as you’re finding things in life difficult at the moment. You may be struggling with thoughts or certain circumstances, maybe you can’t pin point what you’re going through; you just know you need some support. I offer you a safe and non judgmental space to explore what is happening, and help you to understand why you’re feeling the way you are. I personalise my work with you and provide tools to support you to work through the difficulties you are experiencing. You may be searching for the right counsellor, or you may be the parent/carer of a young person who needs support.
01737 949810 View 01737 949810
Photo of Clinton Raminhos, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Clinton Raminhos
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Epsom KT18
Living with difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences can drain our energy and affect the quality of our lives and relationships. We all need support from time to time, and talking with a therapist in a confidential and supportive setting can help us understand ourselves better and consider what we would like to change in our lives or relationships. I work with individuals, people in relationships (couples/relationship counselling) and people who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community.
Living with difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences can drain our energy and affect the quality of our lives and relationships. We all need support from time to time, and talking with a therapist in a confidential and supportive setting can help us understand ourselves better and consider what we would like to change in our lives or relationships. I work with individuals, people in relationships (couples/relationship counselling) and people who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community.
07931 390147 View 07931 390147
Photo of Kim Elizabeth Gregory - Kim Gregory Counselling Therapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Kim Gregory Counselling Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Crawley RH10
I am very experience working with adults and teenagers with special needs/learning difficulties, ADHD, Autism, Gender issues, LGBT+, disabilities & illness.
I am a caring, kind, compassionate and easy to talk to therapist. I work with you to support you in exploring your difficulties and goals. I will provide a safe, confidential environment. in-person or online, to talk about and work on any worries, issues or thoughts affecting you. The time we spend together will be responsive to and guided by you. I don't shy away from challenge in helping you explore and understand yourself, your thoughts and actions but do this always in a gentle, collaborative investigative way, helping you to challenge and understand yourself. Therapy will be directed towards your goals, aims and wishes.
I am very experience working with adults and teenagers with special needs/learning difficulties, ADHD, Autism, Gender issues, LGBT+, disabilities & illness.
I am a caring, kind, compassionate and easy to talk to therapist. I work with you to support you in exploring your difficulties and goals. I will provide a safe, confidential environment. in-person or online, to talk about and work on any worries, issues or thoughts affecting you. The time we spend together will be responsive to and guided by you. I don't shy away from challenge in helping you explore and understand yourself, your thoughts and actions but do this always in a gentle, collaborative investigative way, helping you to challenge and understand yourself. Therapy will be directed towards your goals, aims and wishes.
01293 699983 View 01293 699983
Photo of Selina Rainford, MBACP, Counsellor
Selina Rainford
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Croydon CR0  (Online Only)
As an Integrative Therapist, my primary role is to provide support to individuals who are seeking guidance in addressing their current needs. With 8 years of experience in training and working with diverse client groups, I have gained valuable understanding. In addition to acquiring professional therapeutic qualifications to enhance my practice, I am well versed in assisting a number of client presentations such as: Trauma • Sexual Abuse • Alcohol & Substance misuse • Depression • Anxiety • PTSD • Family & Relationship issues • Sexuality/ LGBTQ support • Anger & Behavioural struggles, among other client presentations.
As an Integrative Therapist, my primary role is to provide support to individuals who are seeking guidance in addressing their current needs. With 8 years of experience in training and working with diverse client groups, I have gained valuable understanding. In addition to acquiring professional therapeutic qualifications to enhance my practice, I am well versed in assisting a number of client presentations such as: Trauma • Sexual Abuse • Alcohol & Substance misuse • Depression • Anxiety • PTSD • Family & Relationship issues • Sexuality/ LGBTQ support • Anger & Behavioural struggles, among other client presentations.
020 4530 8326 View 020 4530 8326
Photo of Angela Pixner, MBACP, Counsellor
Angela Pixner
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerham TN16
I have experience in working with a wide variety of presenting issues including (but not limited to) stress, anxiety, confidence issues, relationship difficulties to name a few, with particular areas of experience and interest including working with grief and loss, LGBTQ+ related matters and working with neurodiversity (both diagnosed and suspected).
We are all unique in our experiences and as a result we all think, feel and behave differently. As part of my role as a counsellor I will always work to understand your unique perspective and how you see the world (and why that is). I will provide a safe space for us to work together, at your pace, to explore any issues you might be facing in your life.
I have experience in working with a wide variety of presenting issues including (but not limited to) stress, anxiety, confidence issues, relationship difficulties to name a few, with particular areas of experience and interest including working with grief and loss, LGBTQ+ related matters and working with neurodiversity (both diagnosed and suspected).
We are all unique in our experiences and as a result we all think, feel and behave differently. As part of my role as a counsellor I will always work to understand your unique perspective and how you see the world (and why that is). I will provide a safe space for us to work together, at your pace, to explore any issues you might be facing in your life.
01732 443321 View 01732 443321
Photo of Nina Guha, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Nina Guha
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wallington SM6
BACP & NCPS Accredited, with 20 yrs post-qualification experience, I offer F2F, online & hybrid therapy sessions to Couples, Families, Individuals. I am particularly interested in working with Neurodiverse (ADHD & ASD) & LGBTQIA+ Clients who have experienced trauma & relational difficulties in their childhood due to their heritage & sexuality. I accept Clients with AXA & BUPA cover. I offer therapy sessions on a short-term, long-term & single session basis. Sessions are delivered face-to-face, online (on Zoom) & also as a hybrid of both. For more info, please visit - www.ninaguha.com/about
BACP & NCPS Accredited, with 20 yrs post-qualification experience, I offer F2F, online & hybrid therapy sessions to Couples, Families, Individuals. I am particularly interested in working with Neurodiverse (ADHD & ASD) & LGBTQIA+ Clients who have experienced trauma & relational difficulties in their childhood due to their heritage & sexuality. I accept Clients with AXA & BUPA cover. I offer therapy sessions on a short-term, long-term & single session basis. Sessions are delivered face-to-face, online (on Zoom) & also as a hybrid of both. For more info, please visit - www.ninaguha.com/about
020 3974 1857 View 020 3974 1857
Photo of Maiya Thacker, MBACP, Counsellor
Maiya Thacker
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Croydon CR0  (Online Only)
I am understanding of different cultures, beliefs, and values. I feel race and sexuality in therapy is something that is important. I have studied and developed my tools in working with clients from the Global Majority and LGBTQ+ communities. I have over 5 years experience of working with drugs and alcohol in a unique yet successful approach.
I am understanding of different cultures, beliefs, and values. I feel race and sexuality in therapy is something that is important. I have studied and developed my tools in working with clients from the Global Majority and LGBTQ+ communities. I have over 5 years experience of working with drugs and alcohol in a unique yet successful approach.
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Photo of Seema Bhatti, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Seema Bhatti
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Croydon CR0
My previous experience is in Depression Anxiety Equality, Diversity and cultural considerations LGBT+ Relationships Body image and self esteem.
I am an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist and trained CBT and DBT therapist. I have been working in mental health for 9 years with both NHS and private health care experience. I work inline with my values of openness, integrity, non judgemental stance and positive regard. I have an interest in equality and diversity which is considered in the work I do and reflected in my academic research.
My previous experience is in Depression Anxiety Equality, Diversity and cultural considerations LGBT+ Relationships Body image and self esteem.
I am an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist and trained CBT and DBT therapist. I have been working in mental health for 9 years with both NHS and private health care experience. I work inline with my values of openness, integrity, non judgemental stance and positive regard. I have an interest in equality and diversity which is considered in the work I do and reflected in my academic research.
01798 306635 View 01798 306635
Photo of Samuel Herbert, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Samuel Herbert
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Crawley RH11  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! My name is Sam. I'm a registered Mental Health Nurse and accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I provide online therapy sessions working with adults over the age of 16 who might be struggling with a range of mental health difficulties including anxiety and low mood.
Hello and welcome! My name is Sam. I'm a registered Mental Health Nurse and accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I provide online therapy sessions working with adults over the age of 16 who might be struggling with a range of mental health difficulties including anxiety and low mood.
01293 222217 View 01293 222217
Photo of William Clarke, MBACP, Psychotherapist
William Clarke
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kenley CR8
I came to counselling later in life, after running my own successful business in the hospitality and events industry. I have a lot of experience in dealing with different people and situations, and I understand the pressures and challenges of working in a demanding and competitive field. I have also faced my own struggles with complicated family issues growing up, identity and self worth. These experiences have shaped me as a person and as a therapist, and they help me to connect with a diverse range of clients.
I came to counselling later in life, after running my own successful business in the hospitality and events industry. I have a lot of experience in dealing with different people and situations, and I understand the pressures and challenges of working in a demanding and competitive field. I have also faced my own struggles with complicated family issues growing up, identity and self worth. These experiences have shaped me as a person and as a therapist, and they help me to connect with a diverse range of clients.
020 4538 4591 View 020 4538 4591
Photo of Craig Ryan, BACP, Counsellor
Craig Ryan
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Leatherhead KT22
I trained at Bristol University and the London Metropolitan University and am an Individual member registered with the BACP. Along side working within the NHS, I carry out work with a charity supporting single parents. I provide a non judgemental safe protected space. I am an integrative counsellor, which means I am able to draw upon different resources to meet your individual needs and requirements. Some areas of work I work with are; stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, men's health, bereavement and loss, physical and domestic violence, low confidence and self-esteem issues, substance misuse disorders and many more.
I trained at Bristol University and the London Metropolitan University and am an Individual member registered with the BACP. Along side working within the NHS, I carry out work with a charity supporting single parents. I provide a non judgemental safe protected space. I am an integrative counsellor, which means I am able to draw upon different resources to meet your individual needs and requirements. Some areas of work I work with are; stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, men's health, bereavement and loss, physical and domestic violence, low confidence and self-esteem issues, substance misuse disorders and many more.
020 3949 6868 View 020 3949 6868
Photo of Simone Taylor-Lewis, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Simone Taylor-Lewis
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Croydon CR0  (Online Only)
If you're processing past experiences, navigating current challenges, or seeking to build a brighter future, my approach offers specialist expertise in mindfulness, coaching techniques, tools for self-awareness, acceptance, and positive change. I am an accredited therapist specialised in offering a holistic and compassionate space that is affirming and inclusive for People of Colour and the LBGT+ community. I am committed to understanding your unique experiences and tailoring a therapeutic approach that aligns with your values and goals.
If you're processing past experiences, navigating current challenges, or seeking to build a brighter future, my approach offers specialist expertise in mindfulness, coaching techniques, tools for self-awareness, acceptance, and positive change. I am an accredited therapist specialised in offering a holistic and compassionate space that is affirming and inclusive for People of Colour and the LBGT+ community. I am committed to understanding your unique experiences and tailoring a therapeutic approach that aligns with your values and goals.
020 3772 6818 View 020 3772 6818
Photo of Alexander Filmer-Lorch, BACP, Psychotherapist
Alexander Filmer-Lorch
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
Coulsdon CR5
As an integrative clinical psychotherapist, I offer a personalised approach to support individuals in their journey toward healing and self-discovery. By integrating various therapeutic modalities, I tailor my interventions to meet the unique needs of each client. Clients who come to me are often grappling with complex life issues, including unresolved emotions, past traumas, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and a sense of disconnection. They seek a safe space to explore their innermost thoughts and feelings without judgment, aiming to gain deeper self-understanding and clarity about their place in the world.
As an integrative clinical psychotherapist, I offer a personalised approach to support individuals in their journey toward healing and self-discovery. By integrating various therapeutic modalities, I tailor my interventions to meet the unique needs of each client. Clients who come to me are often grappling with complex life issues, including unresolved emotions, past traumas, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and a sense of disconnection. They seek a safe space to explore their innermost thoughts and feelings without judgment, aiming to gain deeper self-understanding and clarity about their place in the world.
020 3985 7614 View 020 3985 7614
Photo of Jo Douglas - Collective Psychology, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Collective Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leatherhead KT22
We are a multi-award winning psychological therapies clinic based in Cobham offering fast and effective, evidence-based treatment to support people of all ages and with a variety of mental health difficulties. Our team consists of clinical and counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, an ADHD coach and family therapy. Our beautiful clinic rooms offer a tranquil setting for your sessions. We know the value of the therapeutic relationship and think that it is vital to find a therapist you 'click' with. Our team are personable, warm and empathetic which has helped many people overcome the difficulties holding them back in life.
We are a multi-award winning psychological therapies clinic based in Cobham offering fast and effective, evidence-based treatment to support people of all ages and with a variety of mental health difficulties. Our team consists of clinical and counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, an ADHD coach and family therapy. Our beautiful clinic rooms offer a tranquil setting for your sessions. We know the value of the therapeutic relationship and think that it is vital to find a therapist you 'click' with. Our team are personable, warm and empathetic which has helped many people overcome the difficulties holding them back in life.
01932 504224 View 01932 504224

See more therapy options for Merstham

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.