LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Portslade, ENG

Photo of Theo Scheiner, BACP, Counsellor
Theo Scheiner
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
I'm queer and neurodiverse, and have a particular interest in working with LGBTQ+ people.
Hello! I'm an integrative relational psychotherapist working in Central Hove. Years of working in the third sector and the NHS mean I have a wide range of experience supporting people with a variety of common mental health issues. In particular, I'm interested in the unconscious forces that create self-defeating patterns for each of us in our relationships with ourselves and others. I hold a warm and supportive space for you to explore your difficulties, helping you to create more awareness and acceptance around these, so that you can move forward with your life in a direction that feels positive and meaningful.
I'm queer and neurodiverse, and have a particular interest in working with LGBTQ+ people.
Hello! I'm an integrative relational psychotherapist working in Central Hove. Years of working in the third sector and the NHS mean I have a wide range of experience supporting people with a variety of common mental health issues. In particular, I'm interested in the unconscious forces that create self-defeating patterns for each of us in our relationships with ourselves and others. I hold a warm and supportive space for you to explore your difficulties, helping you to create more awareness and acceptance around these, so that you can move forward with your life in a direction that feels positive and meaningful.
01903 251428 View 01903 251428
Photo of Iain McNulty-Ringshaw, BACP, Counsellor
Iain McNulty-Ringshaw
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
I have extensive experience working with clients in all age groups with many different issues and in many different areas including: Personal internal conflict, Adoption & Fostering, LGBTQ+ & Gender, General concerns, worries and thoughts, Trauma, Family Issues, Relationship issues, Bereavement.
Hello! My name is Iain and I work as a counsellor on line and in person across Sussex in multiple locations. I have experience of working with all age groups including teens, young adults and mature clients. I am an integrative humanistic counsellor, with the ability (and experience) to pull on other modalities to support the journey of my clients whom I work with in a relaxed, non-judgemental and confidential environment. It is very much us the working together as a team. I have a strong belief in the long-term benefits of counselling and therapy and having experienced my own positive, personal journey.
I have extensive experience working with clients in all age groups with many different issues and in many different areas including: Personal internal conflict, Adoption & Fostering, LGBTQ+ & Gender, General concerns, worries and thoughts, Trauma, Family Issues, Relationship issues, Bereavement.
Hello! My name is Iain and I work as a counsellor on line and in person across Sussex in multiple locations. I have experience of working with all age groups including teens, young adults and mature clients. I am an integrative humanistic counsellor, with the ability (and experience) to pull on other modalities to support the journey of my clients whom I work with in a relaxed, non-judgemental and confidential environment. It is very much us the working together as a team. I have a strong belief in the long-term benefits of counselling and therapy and having experienced my own positive, personal journey.
01273 092541 View 01273 092541
Photo of Dr Anna Chiara Sicilia, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Anna Chiara Sicilia
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
Establishing a safe therapeutic relationship is one of the most important parts of effective psychological therapy. I am passionate in supporting people by creating a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore difficult topics in a comfortable way. People access therapy for all kinds of different reasons. You may be struggling with a specific mental health difficulty or maybe you are just "not feeling yourself". I can offer tailored individual psychological therapy and couples therapy for a range of difficulties.
Establishing a safe therapeutic relationship is one of the most important parts of effective psychological therapy. I am passionate in supporting people by creating a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore difficult topics in a comfortable way. People access therapy for all kinds of different reasons. You may be struggling with a specific mental health difficulty or maybe you are just "not feeling yourself". I can offer tailored individual psychological therapy and couples therapy for a range of difficulties.
01273 034687 View 01273 034687
Photo of Rose Gardner - The Therapy Clinic, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
The Therapy Clinic
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
The Therapy Clinic is a psychotherapy and counselling service in Brighton and Hove, founded to provide accessible, affordable, high quality services to those that need it in the community. We offer a range of approaches and affordabilities, and have a social enterprise ethos at heart. Whether you are feeling depressed, anxious, having issues in your relationship, or whether you are living with complex mental health needs, our team of clinicians, or our wider therapeutic network, can help. We offer individual, couple, and family counselling.
The Therapy Clinic is a psychotherapy and counselling service in Brighton and Hove, founded to provide accessible, affordable, high quality services to those that need it in the community. We offer a range of approaches and affordabilities, and have a social enterprise ethos at heart. Whether you are feeling depressed, anxious, having issues in your relationship, or whether you are living with complex mental health needs, our team of clinicians, or our wider therapeutic network, can help. We offer individual, couple, and family counselling.
01273 032458 View 01273 032458
Photo of Maggie Wood - Maggie Wood - Bodhi Tree Dramatherapy, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Maggie Wood - Bodhi Tree Dramatherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portslade BN41
Hi! I believe healing & change can happen within a therapy space that holds safety and trust. Would you like to create positive change? My sessions offer a friendly, warm, holistic, compassionate and safe environment. I work with people from various nationalities, cultures & walks of life & have special interest working with: neurodiversity & integration; ABI/TBI; ADHD; autism; dis/ability; chronic health challenges; highly sensitive people; grief; carers and young carers; relationship body & mind. My intention is to support clients gain more awareness and tools to help support their life journey.
Hi! I believe healing & change can happen within a therapy space that holds safety and trust. Would you like to create positive change? My sessions offer a friendly, warm, holistic, compassionate and safe environment. I work with people from various nationalities, cultures & walks of life & have special interest working with: neurodiversity & integration; ABI/TBI; ADHD; autism; dis/ability; chronic health challenges; highly sensitive people; grief; carers and young carers; relationship body & mind. My intention is to support clients gain more awareness and tools to help support their life journey.
01273 005150 View 01273 005150
Photo of Carol Mohamed, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Carol Mohamed
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
I have been a Therapist for over 25 years in the NHS, voluntary sector and in private practice. I am passionate about providing therapy in a way that will fit your needs and is focused on what you want to achieve.
I have been a Therapist for over 25 years in the NHS, voluntary sector and in private practice. I am passionate about providing therapy in a way that will fit your needs and is focused on what you want to achieve.
01273 121237 View 01273 121237
Photo of Dagmar Salamonova-Clark, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Dagmar Salamonova-Clark
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portslade BN41
I am an experienced therapist with 6 years experience in the NHS and 15 years of clinical practice. I have been privileged to work with hundreds of clients from various walks of life. From teenagers to elderly, and with people across the whole socio-economic spectrum. I am a passionate advocate for wellbeing and a life rich with meaning. Yes we can overcome adversities enriched by transformation and growth. My approach which both; places my clients at the heart of what I do, yet challenges them at the key moments to promote a change.
I am an experienced therapist with 6 years experience in the NHS and 15 years of clinical practice. I have been privileged to work with hundreds of clients from various walks of life. From teenagers to elderly, and with people across the whole socio-economic spectrum. I am a passionate advocate for wellbeing and a life rich with meaning. Yes we can overcome adversities enriched by transformation and growth. My approach which both; places my clients at the heart of what I do, yet challenges them at the key moments to promote a change.
01273 092762 View 01273 092762
Photo of Carhan Raphael, MBACP, Counsellor
Carhan Raphael
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
I have been a counsellor since 2012, both in private practise and working for the YPC, Brighton, AGE UK and the YMCA/Wellbeing Service. As a humanistic/intergative therapist, I believe that you are the expert on yourself and I aim to provide the conditions which allow you to explore your motivations and themes, and make meaning from your own experience. I offer an empathic, non judgemental and respectful space. By building a relationship based on acceptance it becomes possible to look at, recognise and understand where problems in your life may have arisen. Counselling can be for anyone who feels lost, sad, lonely, confused.
I have been a counsellor since 2012, both in private practise and working for the YPC, Brighton, AGE UK and the YMCA/Wellbeing Service. As a humanistic/intergative therapist, I believe that you are the expert on yourself and I aim to provide the conditions which allow you to explore your motivations and themes, and make meaning from your own experience. I offer an empathic, non judgemental and respectful space. By building a relationship based on acceptance it becomes possible to look at, recognise and understand where problems in your life may have arisen. Counselling can be for anyone who feels lost, sad, lonely, confused.
01273 034665 View 01273 034665
Photo of Holly Roberts, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Holly Roberts
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
Not accepting new clients
Are you arguing with your partner all the time? Or perhaps there aren't arguments, but an atmosphere that makes every day life difficult to get through when you're around each other. You might have found out your partner is having an affair. Or maybe things are just a bit tough and you need some support. Being able to communicate with your partner is so important to having a good relationship, being heard and feeling listened to is key to this. Relationship therapy can really help you to feel understood and understand your partner, and can help build a more positive future for you.
Are you arguing with your partner all the time? Or perhaps there aren't arguments, but an atmosphere that makes every day life difficult to get through when you're around each other. You might have found out your partner is having an affair. Or maybe things are just a bit tough and you need some support. Being able to communicate with your partner is so important to having a good relationship, being heard and feeling listened to is key to this. Relationship therapy can really help you to feel understood and understand your partner, and can help build a more positive future for you.
01273 099469 View 01273 099469
Photo of Fennec Adams, DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Fennec Adams
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41  (Online Only)
I think it is really important to understand and acknowledge the complexity of every individuals experience. I endeavour to do this by holding an open mind and creating a safe boundaried space in which we can both get to know you better. I encorporate a range of theories and skills in order to best facilitate your individual process and needs. Within my practice I work with a range of issues which are listed below. I also work in a sex and kink positive way, with all types of relationship styles. Neurodiversity and how that shapes how we experience the world is also a big part of my practise.
I think it is really important to understand and acknowledge the complexity of every individuals experience. I endeavour to do this by holding an open mind and creating a safe boundaried space in which we can both get to know you better. I encorporate a range of theories and skills in order to best facilitate your individual process and needs. Within my practice I work with a range of issues which are listed below. I also work in a sex and kink positive way, with all types of relationship styles. Neurodiversity and how that shapes how we experience the world is also a big part of my practise.
01273 099026 View 01273 099026
Photo of Katherine Hegarty - Kath Hegarty, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Kath Hegarty
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
There are different times in our lives when we may encounter challenges in our emotional world. Transition and change can sometimes trigger these challenging feelings. For example, moving home or employment, changing relationships or friendships; life changes such as going to university or reaching age milestones. Any of these can significantly affect the way we feel about ourselves. We react in different ways to what we encounter in our environment. We might become depressed or overwhelmed by intense emotions or we might feel anxious and unable to engage in social activities. It can all become too much to manage alone.
There are different times in our lives when we may encounter challenges in our emotional world. Transition and change can sometimes trigger these challenging feelings. For example, moving home or employment, changing relationships or friendships; life changes such as going to university or reaching age milestones. Any of these can significantly affect the way we feel about ourselves. We react in different ways to what we encounter in our environment. We might become depressed or overwhelmed by intense emotions or we might feel anxious and unable to engage in social activities. It can all become too much to manage alone.
07714 275159 View 07714 275159
Photo of Malcolm David Bateup - MB Counselling, PsychD, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
MB Counselling
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
Hello I am Malcolm Bateup from MB Counselling Services. I provide both 1.1 and couples counselling using an integrative approach that enables individuals and couples to move forward from being stuck by difficult and complex experiences that have happened out of their control in their lives. Due to the pandemic after carrying out a covid risk assessment I have made an ethical decision to provide specialist video link to enable everyone to feel safe rather than my treatment room. If you would like to find out more I can be contacted through Www.mbc-relationships.co.uk &www.mbcounselling-sussex.com and 07443507711 Take care Malcolm
Hello I am Malcolm Bateup from MB Counselling Services. I provide both 1.1 and couples counselling using an integrative approach that enables individuals and couples to move forward from being stuck by difficult and complex experiences that have happened out of their control in their lives. Due to the pandemic after carrying out a covid risk assessment I have made an ethical decision to provide specialist video link to enable everyone to feel safe rather than my treatment room. If you would like to find out more I can be contacted through Www.mbc-relationships.co.uk &www.mbcounselling-sussex.com and 07443507711 Take care Malcolm
01903 680461 View 01903 680461
Photo of Ruth Grier, MBACP, Counsellor
Ruth Grier
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
Hello, I work close to nature, in a private and quiet garden cabin and my dog Bertie is with me when he feels to! I want to support you to be OK with yourself. Some of the following questions we might over the time we work together: What are your needs and are you able to express them? What you would like to change in your life and how would life be different after counselling? How do you see yourself and the world and how do you feel you are seen? I like to work creatively, using therapeutic tools to help you connect aspects of yourself such as the sandtray, body awareness, and ideas such as the Drama and Winners triangle.
Hello, I work close to nature, in a private and quiet garden cabin and my dog Bertie is with me when he feels to! I want to support you to be OK with yourself. Some of the following questions we might over the time we work together: What are your needs and are you able to express them? What you would like to change in your life and how would life be different after counselling? How do you see yourself and the world and how do you feel you are seen? I like to work creatively, using therapeutic tools to help you connect aspects of yourself such as the sandtray, body awareness, and ideas such as the Drama and Winners triangle.
01273 036126 View 01273 036126
Photo of Valentina Enis - Valentina Enis Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Valentina Enis Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
I believe that it's through a secure therapeutic relationship that an individual can gain self awareness, insight and a deeper understanding of their feelings and concerns to grow, to re engage in life and move forward to reach their full potential.
I believe that it's through a secure therapeutic relationship that an individual can gain self awareness, insight and a deeper understanding of their feelings and concerns to grow, to re engage in life and move forward to reach their full potential.
020 4538 0895 View 020 4538 0895
Photo of Gosia Vitale, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Gosia Vitale
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portslade BN41
Not accepting new clients
At different stages in our lives, we encounter difficulties that prevent us from fully enjoying life. It can be anything from anxiety and depression, to the loss of a person (through death or relationship breakdown), to deeply rooted emotional issues (such as low self-esteem or inability to form relationships). Other times, we are unable to fully explain what is troubling us - we just know that something is. Asking for help can be difficult - finding the right kind of help and support can be more challenging. With each person and difficulty being unique, I tailor my approach to suit each client's needs and communication style.
At different stages in our lives, we encounter difficulties that prevent us from fully enjoying life. It can be anything from anxiety and depression, to the loss of a person (through death or relationship breakdown), to deeply rooted emotional issues (such as low self-esteem or inability to form relationships). Other times, we are unable to fully explain what is troubling us - we just know that something is. Asking for help can be difficult - finding the right kind of help and support can be more challenging. With each person and difficulty being unique, I tailor my approach to suit each client's needs and communication style.
01273 032461 View 01273 032461
Photo of Timothy Park, MBACP, Counsellor
Timothy Park
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
Hi, I’m Tim and I can help if you struggle with addictions or if you are finding life too much of a challenge. My approach is rooted in the understanding that you have the capacity to change and that therapy is an important part of this process. I offer you an empathic, authentic and non-judgemental space that is focuses on you achieving your therapy goals.
Hi, I’m Tim and I can help if you struggle with addictions or if you are finding life too much of a challenge. My approach is rooted in the understanding that you have the capacity to change and that therapy is an important part of this process. I offer you an empathic, authentic and non-judgemental space that is focuses on you achieving your therapy goals.
01273 121315 View 01273 121315
Photo of Fiona Macbeth, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Fiona Macbeth
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
I can help you with whatever is distressing you in your life whether it be anxiety fuelled by the current circumstances or something longer standing. have worked with hundreds of clients on a wide range of issues, and I am also experienced in the field of eating disorders. Come for a free assessment, share what is troubling you and identify what you want to change. I can work short term for around six sessions, or longer term if required. All counselling is currently online using a safe, secure simple system. I offer practical techniques to deal with immediate crisis, and longer term support to develop self-awareness.
I can help you with whatever is distressing you in your life whether it be anxiety fuelled by the current circumstances or something longer standing. have worked with hundreds of clients on a wide range of issues, and I am also experienced in the field of eating disorders. Come for a free assessment, share what is troubling you and identify what you want to change. I can work short term for around six sessions, or longer term if required. All counselling is currently online using a safe, secure simple system. I offer practical techniques to deal with immediate crisis, and longer term support to develop self-awareness.
01273 121249 View 01273 121249
Photo of George Dickinson, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
George Dickinson
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
In my practice, the therapeutic relationship is a space where difficult life experiences can be worked through. I take an integrative approach, in which I encourage you to be curious about how your difficulties relate to previous experiences and your expectations for yourself and others. This often brings up feelings that can seem unwelcome and I work with you to help you understand unwanted emotions and connect to your body. My approach aims to deepen your self-awareness in the here-and-now as this helps you to understand and feel compassion for yourself, and be okay in who you are.
In my practice, the therapeutic relationship is a space where difficult life experiences can be worked through. I take an integrative approach, in which I encourage you to be curious about how your difficulties relate to previous experiences and your expectations for yourself and others. This often brings up feelings that can seem unwelcome and I work with you to help you understand unwanted emotions and connect to your body. My approach aims to deepen your self-awareness in the here-and-now as this helps you to understand and feel compassion for yourself, and be okay in who you are.
01273 092819 View 01273 092819
Photo of Alison Thorpe, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Alison Thorpe
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Portslade BN41
Very warm and approachable counsellor, working with stuckness, feelings of failure, inner critic/self sabotage, procrastination, depression and low self esteem (and other issues too). I also have a lot of experience working with trauma - childhood experiences (sexual & physical abuse, neglect, not being seen, treated cruelly, preoccupied parents, chaotic parents, emotionally unavailable parents etc) as well as adult life experiences that have been traumatic. I have personal experience of working through childhood trauma using "Focusing".
Very warm and approachable counsellor, working with stuckness, feelings of failure, inner critic/self sabotage, procrastination, depression and low self esteem (and other issues too). I also have a lot of experience working with trauma - childhood experiences (sexual & physical abuse, neglect, not being seen, treated cruelly, preoccupied parents, chaotic parents, emotionally unavailable parents etc) as well as adult life experiences that have been traumatic. I have personal experience of working through childhood trauma using "Focusing".
020 3826 8831 View 020 3826 8831
Photo of Alex Ball, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Alex Ball
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portslade BN41
I am an approachable and experienced therapist working with a broad spectrum of clients. My therapeutic approach is ‘Integrative’, meaning I use skills and theories from across the major modalities of Humanistic, Psychodynamic and CBT. I have a background in the charitable sector, working as a counsellor in community settings and in schools and colleges, and worked as a Youth Worker. I really value my clients and I am always accepting and non-judgemental, helping you feel safe throughout our work. I work with a collaborative and relational style, meaning our sessions will be conversational and I hope they’ll feel like teamwork.
I am an approachable and experienced therapist working with a broad spectrum of clients. My therapeutic approach is ‘Integrative’, meaning I use skills and theories from across the major modalities of Humanistic, Psychodynamic and CBT. I have a background in the charitable sector, working as a counsellor in community settings and in schools and colleges, and worked as a Youth Worker. I really value my clients and I am always accepting and non-judgemental, helping you feel safe throughout our work. I work with a collaborative and relational style, meaning our sessions will be conversational and I hope they’ll feel like teamwork.
01273 036062 View 01273 036062
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.