LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Poole, ENG

Photo of Mandy Jane Nicholson, MBACP, Counsellor
Mandy Jane Nicholson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
Waitlist for new clients
I am an empathic, approachable and experienced (5yrs) Humanistic Integrative LGBTQ affirmative counsellor. I also integrate CBT into my practice particularly when working with anxiety. I have facilitated numerous Wellbeing Support Groups for Dorset Mind including 2 LGBTQ peer-support talking groups and an anxiety support group. My private practice was based at Over the Rainbow Sexual Health Clinic in Bournemouth for 5 years where I have had the privilege of working with a variety of LGBTQ people experiencing numerous Wellbeing Challenges including:Post Traumatic Injury, OCD, Depression, Social Anxiety and Emotionally Unstable PD.
I am an empathic, approachable and experienced (5yrs) Humanistic Integrative LGBTQ affirmative counsellor. I also integrate CBT into my practice particularly when working with anxiety. I have facilitated numerous Wellbeing Support Groups for Dorset Mind including 2 LGBTQ peer-support talking groups and an anxiety support group. My private practice was based at Over the Rainbow Sexual Health Clinic in Bournemouth for 5 years where I have had the privilege of working with a variety of LGBTQ people experiencing numerous Wellbeing Challenges including:Post Traumatic Injury, OCD, Depression, Social Anxiety and Emotionally Unstable PD.
01202 286144 View 01202 286144
Photo of Gill Patricia de Sylva, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Gill Patricia de Sylva
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
We all struggle at times to manage the pressures of everyday life. It maybe feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, recent or past trauma, anger or relationship difficulties. I am integratively trained meaning I value your individuality and can tailor my approach to your own unique needs. I am non-judgemental and offer empathy and warmth. We will work together to achieve your goals. I believe each client has the healing potential within to overcome life problems. The relationship we build together provides support and facilitates awareness, insight and personal growth thus allowing a more empowered happier life.
We all struggle at times to manage the pressures of everyday life. It maybe feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, recent or past trauma, anger or relationship difficulties. I am integratively trained meaning I value your individuality and can tailor my approach to your own unique needs. I am non-judgemental and offer empathy and warmth. We will work together to achieve your goals. I believe each client has the healing potential within to overcome life problems. The relationship we build together provides support and facilitates awareness, insight and personal growth thus allowing a more empowered happier life.
01202 835203 View 01202 835203
Photo of Philip Rose, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Philip Rose
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Poole BH14
In today's fast-paced world, people experience many challenges and complex pressures. As a psychotherapist, I offer clients a secure and confidential space to explore their situation and examine the obstacles affecting their happiness and health. I strive to support clients’ emotional and personal growth by creating an open dialogue which encourages curiosity and reflexivity to help them confront their challenges, gain insight into their lives, and move closer to what they hope to achieve through therapy.
In today's fast-paced world, people experience many challenges and complex pressures. As a psychotherapist, I offer clients a secure and confidential space to explore their situation and examine the obstacles affecting their happiness and health. I strive to support clients’ emotional and personal growth by creating an open dialogue which encourages curiosity and reflexivity to help them confront their challenges, gain insight into their lives, and move closer to what they hope to achieve through therapy.
01202 059322 View 01202 059322
Photo of Sarah-Jane Wright, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Sarah-Jane Wright
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
I am an Accredited Therapeutic Counsellor and Member of the British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP). Life can sometimes be difficult. Everyone experiences times in their lives when they need a little extra support. I understand how daunting it can be to even think about talking to a stranger, so I can offer an empathic, confidential space if you have an issue you are finding hard to deal with on your own. I recommend an introductory session in which we can discuss whatever is troubling you and see if you would feel comfortable talking to me. If so, we can work together to find a way to deal with it.
I am an Accredited Therapeutic Counsellor and Member of the British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP). Life can sometimes be difficult. Everyone experiences times in their lives when they need a little extra support. I understand how daunting it can be to even think about talking to a stranger, so I can offer an empathic, confidential space if you have an issue you are finding hard to deal with on your own. I recommend an introductory session in which we can discuss whatever is troubling you and see if you would feel comfortable talking to me. If so, we can work together to find a way to deal with it.
01202 125236 View 01202 125236
Photo of Donna Marie Morgan - ReWellness Counselling Ltd, MBACP, Counsellor
ReWellness Counselling Ltd
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH18
A warm, friendly counselling service specialising in children & young people. At Rewellness, our mission is to offer compassionate and inclusive counselling services to everyone, from children and young people to adults, families, couples & parents. We are deeply committed to embracing and celebrating difference and diversity in all its forms. Our passion lies in creating a safe, welcoming space where you can be truly heard, perhaps for the first time. We understand the importance of validating your feelings & experiences, and we aim to foster emotional well-being through a strong therapeutic connection built on care and compassion
A warm, friendly counselling service specialising in children & young people. At Rewellness, our mission is to offer compassionate and inclusive counselling services to everyone, from children and young people to adults, families, couples & parents. We are deeply committed to embracing and celebrating difference and diversity in all its forms. Our passion lies in creating a safe, welcoming space where you can be truly heard, perhaps for the first time. We understand the importance of validating your feelings & experiences, and we aim to foster emotional well-being through a strong therapeutic connection built on care and compassion
01202 013934 View 01202 013934
Photo of Rob Conley, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Rob Conley
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Poole BH15
Hello, my name is Rob Conley. I am a psychotherapist, practising from BH21 1DX, BH15 1BT, and online or via telephone. I offer both short-term and longer-term psychotherapy to adult individuals. I provide a safe, empathic and non-judgemental relationship in which you can explore your experiences and discuss any problems and difficulties. You can decide what you want to change or consider how to manage the impact of anything you cannot change. My goal is to form therapeutic relationships in which people can experience profound healing, positive changes, or consider ways of managing the impact of what cannot be changed.
Hello, my name is Rob Conley. I am a psychotherapist, practising from BH21 1DX, BH15 1BT, and online or via telephone. I offer both short-term and longer-term psychotherapy to adult individuals. I provide a safe, empathic and non-judgemental relationship in which you can explore your experiences and discuss any problems and difficulties. You can decide what you want to change or consider how to manage the impact of anything you cannot change. My goal is to form therapeutic relationships in which people can experience profound healing, positive changes, or consider ways of managing the impact of what cannot be changed.
01725 538807 View 01725 538807
Photo of Joanna Atkinson, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Joanna Atkinson
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
We all go through life experiencing good and bad moments, but sometimes the bad experiences can become too overwhelming to manage them on our own. Sometimes they may be a result of sudden changes which life throws at us unexpectedly leaving us vulnerable and lost in a new reality and sometimes it may be that we want to change something in our lives, but don’t really know how, which leaves us feeling stuck and helpless. If this sounds familiar to how you feel why not try counselling? Talking to someone you can trust who can listen without any judgement can be very helpful especially in these challenging times.
We all go through life experiencing good and bad moments, but sometimes the bad experiences can become too overwhelming to manage them on our own. Sometimes they may be a result of sudden changes which life throws at us unexpectedly leaving us vulnerable and lost in a new reality and sometimes it may be that we want to change something in our lives, but don’t really know how, which leaves us feeling stuck and helpless. If this sounds familiar to how you feel why not try counselling? Talking to someone you can trust who can listen without any judgement can be very helpful especially in these challenging times.
01202 125114 View 01202 125114
Photo of Kasia Stankiewicz, MSc, CPsychol, Psychologist
Kasia Stankiewicz
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Poole BH15
I strongly believe that in order to provide the best possible psychological help there is a need to build tailored, high-quality programmes for each and every client. I offer a bespoke approach with a strong focus on discretion, privacy and confidentiality.
I strongly believe that in order to provide the best possible psychological help there is a need to build tailored, high-quality programmes for each and every client. I offer a bespoke approach with a strong focus on discretion, privacy and confidentiality.
01202 037409 View 01202 037409
Photo of Mandy Heath, BACP, Counsellor
Mandy Heath
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poole BH12
Are you telling people you are 'fine' even though you know you are not? Maybe you are going through a bereavement, a life transition, a difficult period of your life and need some emotional support? Maybe you have already experienced difficulties in your life and are struggling with the way you feel on the other side of it. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem or depression?
Are you telling people you are 'fine' even though you know you are not? Maybe you are going through a bereavement, a life transition, a difficult period of your life and need some emotional support? Maybe you have already experienced difficulties in your life and are struggling with the way you feel on the other side of it. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem or depression?
01202 835464 View 01202 835464
Photo of Richard Absalom, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Richard Absalom
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Poole BH12  (Online Only)
Experienced and established Integrative Individual and Couples Counsellor offering online appointments on Zoom or Skype. As well as my initial core training and qualification in Integrative Counselling (2006) I am additionally qualified in Sex and Relationship therapy. I have worked with individuals since 2006, and couples since 2009. Whatever your circumstances, I am passionate about helping people tap back into their own resources in order to solve problems and make changes. I can help, when unhelpful thoughts patterns and behaviours are keeping you stuck. The aim is to help you gain insight, and heighten self awareness.
Experienced and established Integrative Individual and Couples Counsellor offering online appointments on Zoom or Skype. As well as my initial core training and qualification in Integrative Counselling (2006) I am additionally qualified in Sex and Relationship therapy. I have worked with individuals since 2006, and couples since 2009. Whatever your circumstances, I am passionate about helping people tap back into their own resources in order to solve problems and make changes. I can help, when unhelpful thoughts patterns and behaviours are keeping you stuck. The aim is to help you gain insight, and heighten self awareness.
01202 013959 View 01202 013959
Photo of Nicky Vallance, MBACP, Counsellor
Nicky Vallance
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
Hi, I'm Nicky. I can help if you are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, or coming to terms with long-term health issues. If you find yourself fitting around everyone else's needs at the expense of your own or have not been able to move on from past experiences, or are overloaded then I can help you to turn things around. I offer a warm, safe, confidential space to talk and overcome the challenges you are facing, tune into your emotions, so they become your guide rather than overwhelm you. Most importantly build a new relationship with yourself and feel more confident and in control of your life.
Hi, I'm Nicky. I can help if you are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, or coming to terms with long-term health issues. If you find yourself fitting around everyone else's needs at the expense of your own or have not been able to move on from past experiences, or are overloaded then I can help you to turn things around. I offer a warm, safe, confidential space to talk and overcome the challenges you are facing, tune into your emotions, so they become your guide rather than overwhelm you. Most importantly build a new relationship with yourself and feel more confident and in control of your life.
01202 125197 View 01202 125197
Photo of Genevieve Smith - Gsscounselling, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Gsscounselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Poole BH13
Hi my names Gen, I’m an integrated therapist/ Supervisor who specialises in anxiety, relationships and low self esteem counselling. If you feel that you are struggling with any of theses issues or just need someone to talk to, I can help you to explore these things and look at how we can move forward and work through them. We will take the time to explore what you have been dealing with and look at different ways of how therapy can help you. I will listen to your needs and adapt our sessions so that you feel comfortable enough to discuss anything you’d like too.
Hi my names Gen, I’m an integrated therapist/ Supervisor who specialises in anxiety, relationships and low self esteem counselling. If you feel that you are struggling with any of theses issues or just need someone to talk to, I can help you to explore these things and look at how we can move forward and work through them. We will take the time to explore what you have been dealing with and look at different ways of how therapy can help you. I will listen to your needs and adapt our sessions so that you feel comfortable enough to discuss anything you’d like too.
01425 209305 View 01425 209305
Photo of Paula Phillips, MBACP, Counsellor
Paula Phillips
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
Life can present us with unwelcome events at any age. Professional counselling can't change these events but can provide tools and techniques to help minimise their impact. In my practise, counselling is primarily about the relationship between you and me. It is a talking therapy where we can explore what is troubling you in a safe, non-judgemental setting. Every person is an individual and therefore counselling can be different for everyone. I am more relationship driven rather than theory driven.
Life can present us with unwelcome events at any age. Professional counselling can't change these events but can provide tools and techniques to help minimise their impact. In my practise, counselling is primarily about the relationship between you and me. It is a talking therapy where we can explore what is troubling you in a safe, non-judgemental setting. Every person is an individual and therefore counselling can be different for everyone. I am more relationship driven rather than theory driven.
01202 286479 View 01202 286479
Photo of Zoe Silk, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Zoe Silk
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
I am very passionate about my work and what I love most is seeing my clients progress. Observing their changes and seeing how good they feel within themselves is a wonderful journey to share. I offer support with all kinds of issues. You may be suffering with an anxiety disorder, depression perhaps, an issue within a relationship, an addiction or something else. Whatever your issue is, my aim is to spend time getting to know you, finding the root cause to your problem and any other factors that may have to be taken into consideration. Then, together we can work towards a solid plan for you to more you forward as an individual.
I am very passionate about my work and what I love most is seeing my clients progress. Observing their changes and seeing how good they feel within themselves is a wonderful journey to share. I offer support with all kinds of issues. You may be suffering with an anxiety disorder, depression perhaps, an issue within a relationship, an addiction or something else. Whatever your issue is, my aim is to spend time getting to know you, finding the root cause to your problem and any other factors that may have to be taken into consideration. Then, together we can work towards a solid plan for you to more you forward as an individual.
01202 117054 View 01202 117054
Photo of Abby Orchard, MBACP, Counsellor
Abby Orchard
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
Do you feel you could develop your potential further? Do you feel anxious or depressed or suffer from PTSD? Is your relationship suffering? Are you finding difficult to manage stressors? Is this getting in the way of you achieving your goals and the quality of life and relationship you desire? I can help!
Do you feel you could develop your potential further? Do you feel anxious or depressed or suffer from PTSD? Is your relationship suffering? Are you finding difficult to manage stressors? Is this getting in the way of you achieving your goals and the quality of life and relationship you desire? I can help!
01202 125945 View 01202 125945
Photo of Jo Sharkey, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Jo Sharkey
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Poole BH14
I am an accredited, integrative therapeutic counsellor, finding that working in this way, gives uniqueness with each client, connecting in a way that is best suited to them as an individual. I have extensive experience, working with a variety of clients, of all ages.
I am an accredited, integrative therapeutic counsellor, finding that working in this way, gives uniqueness with each client, connecting in a way that is best suited to them as an individual. I have extensive experience, working with a variety of clients, of all ages.
01202 013935 View 01202 013935
Photo of Dr Katie Casey, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Katie Casey
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
Living (or parenting a child) with the effects of trauma and other mental health difficulties can feel impossible. Unfortunately, finding help can be a daunting process with so many solutions being offered and not all of them being evidence based. The next best step is often to get in touch for a free 15 minute consultation to find out if I feel like the right fit for you or your child.
Living (or parenting a child) with the effects of trauma and other mental health difficulties can feel impossible. Unfortunately, finding help can be a daunting process with so many solutions being offered and not all of them being evidence based. The next best step is often to get in touch for a free 15 minute consultation to find out if I feel like the right fit for you or your child.
01425 209296 View 01425 209296
Photo of Peter Lasek, MBACP, Counsellor
Peter Lasek
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH14
As an anxiety specialist with 8 years of experience, I have been dedicated to helping clients understand and reduce their anxiety. My approach involves three stages 1 - Understanding the roots of anxiety - Identifying the underlaying causes of anxiety through thorough exploration. 2 - Developing coping strategies - utilizing various therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic approach, person-centred approach and CBT. 3 - Applying coping strategies in day to day life - encouraging clients to commit to completing homework tasks between the sessions to integrate these strategies into daily routine
As an anxiety specialist with 8 years of experience, I have been dedicated to helping clients understand and reduce their anxiety. My approach involves three stages 1 - Understanding the roots of anxiety - Identifying the underlaying causes of anxiety through thorough exploration. 2 - Developing coping strategies - utilizing various therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic approach, person-centred approach and CBT. 3 - Applying coping strategies in day to day life - encouraging clients to commit to completing homework tasks between the sessions to integrate these strategies into daily routine
01865 951490 View 01865 951490
Photo of Marianne Le Coyte Grinney, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Marianne Le Coyte Grinney
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Poole BH13  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are reading this you may be wishing for something in your life, family or relationship to be different. I too was looking for difference when I first began my Systemic Psychotherapy training. My name is Marianne Le Coyte Grinney and I am a Family and Systemic Psychotherapist: I believe 'the person is never the problem' and that people are best understood within systems, for example their family, work and social life. My therapeutic posture aims not to apportion blame, but to support individual and collective change within a safe and supportive environment. I do not hope to provide answers, but to facilitate change through
If you are reading this you may be wishing for something in your life, family or relationship to be different. I too was looking for difference when I first began my Systemic Psychotherapy training. My name is Marianne Le Coyte Grinney and I am a Family and Systemic Psychotherapist: I believe 'the person is never the problem' and that people are best understood within systems, for example their family, work and social life. My therapeutic posture aims not to apportion blame, but to support individual and collective change within a safe and supportive environment. I do not hope to provide answers, but to facilitate change through
01793 378026 View 01793 378026
Photo of Jamie Pepper, MBACP, Counsellor
Jamie Pepper
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
Your experience matters, and I would love to give you the space to explore it. Maybe there are things you feel unable to discuss with other people in your life, or maybe you do discuss these things, but don't feel truly understood, or like other people have the mental space to stay with you as you work through difficult times. Providing that space for you is my goal. I'm here to support you to explore your identity, past traumatic experiences, and how you find your place in the world around you. You don't have to feel lost. Message me to arrange a free online introduction where we can start to explore what's going on for you.
Your experience matters, and I would love to give you the space to explore it. Maybe there are things you feel unable to discuss with other people in your life, or maybe you do discuss these things, but don't feel truly understood, or like other people have the mental space to stay with you as you work through difficult times. Providing that space for you is my goal. I'm here to support you to explore your identity, past traumatic experiences, and how you find your place in the world around you. You don't have to feel lost. Message me to arrange a free online introduction where we can start to explore what's going on for you.
01209 701126 View 01209 701126
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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.