LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Rayleigh, ENG

Photo of Dr Michalla Gillbanks, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Michalla Gillbanks
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Rayleigh SS6
I am a qualified clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience working within NHS and private sectors. I have experience working with adults, adolescents and children experiencing a range of emotional and mental health difficulties. During your initial assessment, I take time to get to know you and your presenting issues taking into consideration past experiences, family dynamics and issues that you feel need addressing or are holding you back. We would then develop a person centered care plan to best suit your needs & goals. I am experienced in dealing with a range of mental health conditions along with more exploratory work
I am a qualified clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience working within NHS and private sectors. I have experience working with adults, adolescents and children experiencing a range of emotional and mental health difficulties. During your initial assessment, I take time to get to know you and your presenting issues taking into consideration past experiences, family dynamics and issues that you feel need addressing or are holding you back. We would then develop a person centered care plan to best suit your needs & goals. I am experienced in dealing with a range of mental health conditions along with more exploratory work
01702 908337 View 01702 908337
Photo of Dr Chancy Marsh CPsychol, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Chancy Marsh CPsychol
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Rayleigh SS6
I am a chartered clinical psychologist with 15 years experience in mental health. Whilst working in the NHS, I have set up The Sycamore Private Practice so that people outside of mental health services can access support. I have worked with people, who have benefited from making sense of difficult or/and frightening experiences, improving their mood or lowering anxiety. If you would like a safe place in order to understand more about what is going on for you, or perhaps have specific areas that need a focus, we can do this together and at a pace that suits you. I have listed my areas of expertise and experience as a guide for you.
I am a chartered clinical psychologist with 15 years experience in mental health. Whilst working in the NHS, I have set up The Sycamore Private Practice so that people outside of mental health services can access support. I have worked with people, who have benefited from making sense of difficult or/and frightening experiences, improving their mood or lowering anxiety. If you would like a safe place in order to understand more about what is going on for you, or perhaps have specific areas that need a focus, we can do this together and at a pace that suits you. I have listed my areas of expertise and experience as a guide for you.
01702 418809 View 01702 418809
Photo of Caroline Philippa Burkett, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Caroline Philippa Burkett
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Rayleigh SS6
Hello, I am the founder of Sparkle Again Therapy and I specialise in working with women over 40, who aren’t happy with their life right now. Is that you? Maybe you’re feeling down or depressed? And you’re not really sure why, but you know something’s wrong? Perhaps your feeling sad, confused, and you don’t know what to do to start feeling better again, well I can help you. I’m an expert in talking to you, about what’s not working right now in your life, and together we can make changes to get you to where you want to be. I will listen carefully and will be compassionate and kind. I will help you re-discover the true you.
Hello, I am the founder of Sparkle Again Therapy and I specialise in working with women over 40, who aren’t happy with their life right now. Is that you? Maybe you’re feeling down or depressed? And you’re not really sure why, but you know something’s wrong? Perhaps your feeling sad, confused, and you don’t know what to do to start feeling better again, well I can help you. I’m an expert in talking to you, about what’s not working right now in your life, and together we can make changes to get you to where you want to be. I will listen carefully and will be compassionate and kind. I will help you re-discover the true you.
01702 418666 View 01702 418666
Photo of Angela Cope, MBACP, Counsellor
Angela Cope
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Rayleigh SS6
I am an experienced and fully qualified Couples Counsellor, Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist with a background in both Person-centred Humanistic counselling and an Advanced Diploma in Psychodynamic counselling. I am a fully qualified Relate counsellor having 1500+ hours experience. I have experience in my practice using Transactional Analysis, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Systemic family Counselling using genograms, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
I am an experienced and fully qualified Couples Counsellor, Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist with a background in both Person-centred Humanistic counselling and an Advanced Diploma in Psychodynamic counselling. I am a fully qualified Relate counsellor having 1500+ hours experience. I have experience in my practice using Transactional Analysis, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Systemic family Counselling using genograms, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
01702 904804 View 01702 904804
Photo of Laura Buckingham, MBACP, Counsellor
Laura Buckingham
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Rayleigh SS6
Welcome, My name is Laura, I am a fully qualified Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor offering both long and short-term therapy. We are all presented with many different challenges in all aspects of our daily lives, including work, health, relationships and with our own well-being. Reaching out for help can often feel overwhelming, however, the rewards in taking that difficult first step can be life-changing. I have experience and successfully worked with those suffering with depression, anxiety, loneliness, loss & grief domestic abuse, suicidal thoughts and chronic illness amongst various other issues.
Welcome, My name is Laura, I am a fully qualified Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor offering both long and short-term therapy. We are all presented with many different challenges in all aspects of our daily lives, including work, health, relationships and with our own well-being. Reaching out for help can often feel overwhelming, however, the rewards in taking that difficult first step can be life-changing. I have experience and successfully worked with those suffering with depression, anxiety, loneliness, loss & grief domestic abuse, suicidal thoughts and chronic illness amongst various other issues.
01268 437439 View 01268 437439
Photo of Lorraine Anne Bygrave - Benfleet Counselling And Psychotherapy Ltd, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Benfleet Counselling And Psychotherapy Ltd
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Rayleigh SS6
At Benfleet Counselling and Psychotherapy Ltd, we deeply care about our potential clients' well-being, and we understand that seeking support can be a vulnerable and courageous step. Our uniqueness lies in the genuine empathy and compassion we bring to every therapeutic journey. We believe that everyone's struggles are unique, and we are dedicated to tailoring our approach to meet your specific needs, whatever they may be. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or any other emotional difficulty, our team of caring and experienced therapists is here to walk alongside you on your path to healing and growth
At Benfleet Counselling and Psychotherapy Ltd, we deeply care about our potential clients' well-being, and we understand that seeking support can be a vulnerable and courageous step. Our uniqueness lies in the genuine empathy and compassion we bring to every therapeutic journey. We believe that everyone's struggles are unique, and we are dedicated to tailoring our approach to meet your specific needs, whatever they may be. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or any other emotional difficulty, our team of caring and experienced therapists is here to walk alongside you on your path to healing and growth
07480 534951 View 07480 534951
Photo of Kay DIAMOND, UKCP Trainee, Counsellor
Kay DIAMOND
Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rayleigh SS6
Hello, I'm Kay. I understand that choosing the right therapist can be difficult. I believe the most important factor is that you feel comfortable with them and are able to be yourself. So, I offer a free no obligation consultation for you to get a feel for how we might work together. Whether you are experiencing relationship troubles, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, difficult childhood experiences, loss, bereavement (including pets) or you'd like to explore your patterns of behaviour. It is a privilege to be in entrusted with personal thoughts and feelings.
Hello, I'm Kay. I understand that choosing the right therapist can be difficult. I believe the most important factor is that you feel comfortable with them and are able to be yourself. So, I offer a free no obligation consultation for you to get a feel for how we might work together. Whether you are experiencing relationship troubles, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, difficult childhood experiences, loss, bereavement (including pets) or you'd like to explore your patterns of behaviour. It is a privilege to be in entrusted with personal thoughts and feelings.
01702 967034 View 01702 967034
Photo of Tanya Lee, MHGI, Psychotherapist
Tanya Lee
Psychotherapist, MHGI
Verified Verified
Rayleigh SS6
Are you looking for effective help to deal with trauma, panic and anxiety? Are you fed up with labels and diagnoses that do nothing to resolve the symptoms and pain that you're suffering with? CPTSD, PTSD, GAD and BPD are labels that define your symptoms, but that don't tackle the cause or do anything useful to relieve them. I specialise in helping people with anxiety and PSTD and have helped many people just like you, who have been struggling, sometimes for decades. I won't dredge up unnecessary past experiences - I only work with what is relevant. Also if you prefer, you won't have to speak in detail about your issue.
Are you looking for effective help to deal with trauma, panic and anxiety? Are you fed up with labels and diagnoses that do nothing to resolve the symptoms and pain that you're suffering with? CPTSD, PTSD, GAD and BPD are labels that define your symptoms, but that don't tackle the cause or do anything useful to relieve them. I specialise in helping people with anxiety and PSTD and have helped many people just like you, who have been struggling, sometimes for decades. I won't dredge up unnecessary past experiences - I only work with what is relevant. Also if you prefer, you won't have to speak in detail about your issue.
01702 410074 View 01702 410074
Photo of Terry Smith, MBACP, Counsellor
Terry Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rayleigh SS6
If this is your first time coming into therapy, welcome. I know it can be daunting, but please remember you’ve made a decision to help yourself and that is a massive step in itself. Living these days can be very difficult for some people on a daily basis without any other stress, pressure, demands, anxiety, or feelings of being overwhelming coming into the mix. We all need a little help from time to time and I am here to help you not have to carry those heavy burdens alone. My main focus is on you; your aims, your truth, the real you, you feel you longer can be and how we can work together to get you back on track.
If this is your first time coming into therapy, welcome. I know it can be daunting, but please remember you’ve made a decision to help yourself and that is a massive step in itself. Living these days can be very difficult for some people on a daily basis without any other stress, pressure, demands, anxiety, or feelings of being overwhelming coming into the mix. We all need a little help from time to time and I am here to help you not have to carry those heavy burdens alone. My main focus is on you; your aims, your truth, the real you, you feel you longer can be and how we can work together to get you back on track.
01245 950341 View 01245 950341
Photo of Denise Pauline Stevens, MBACP, Counsellor
Denise Pauline Stevens
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Rayleigh SS6
After many years of my own struggles and trying to navigate the emotional turmoil of my chaotic life I made the decision to start therapy. This journey allowed me to unravel the complex emotions that kept me a prisoner in my own head for many years. Therapy set me free and allowed me to explore and understand the trauma of my childhood and the damaged inner child living inside of me as an adult. I was able to let go of my past and live a more fulfilling life. As I healed I decided to become a therapist and help people just like you. If you feel stuck and want to move forward please get in touch.
After many years of my own struggles and trying to navigate the emotional turmoil of my chaotic life I made the decision to start therapy. This journey allowed me to unravel the complex emotions that kept me a prisoner in my own head for many years. Therapy set me free and allowed me to explore and understand the trauma of my childhood and the damaged inner child living inside of me as an adult. I was able to let go of my past and live a more fulfilling life. As I healed I decided to become a therapist and help people just like you. If you feel stuck and want to move forward please get in touch.
01268 983082 View 01268 983082

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Steffie Myall - Steffie Myall Therapeutic Counselling, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Steffie Myall Therapeutic Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Benfleet SS7
I’m an Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor, and accredited member of The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS), with specialist CPD/ experience in working with schools, neurodiversity, LGBTQ+ issues and relationship diversity.
Hello. I understand first-hand how difficult it can be to make that first step of reaching out for help, and I’m so glad that you are here. It may be that you have experienced events in the past that are impacting your life now, or are currently going through some dark times, and need support in navigating your way through? Perhaps you have been feeling anxious or depressed and just want to feel better? Or are there changes in your life that you are struggling with? You might know exactly what you need to work through…or you may not understand exactly what is going on, but you know something just doesn't feel right. I can help.
I’m an Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor, and accredited member of The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS), with specialist CPD/ experience in working with schools, neurodiversity, LGBTQ+ issues and relationship diversity.
Hello. I understand first-hand how difficult it can be to make that first step of reaching out for help, and I’m so glad that you are here. It may be that you have experienced events in the past that are impacting your life now, or are currently going through some dark times, and need support in navigating your way through? Perhaps you have been feeling anxious or depressed and just want to feel better? Or are there changes in your life that you are struggling with? You might know exactly what you need to work through…or you may not understand exactly what is going on, but you know something just doesn't feel right. I can help.
01268 203520 View 01268 203520
Photo of Kay Marina Cohen Pncps (Acc.) Professional Accredited, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Kay Marina Cohen Pncps (Acc.) Professional Accredited
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Hadleigh SS7
I practices in Southend on Sea. I am a senior professional accredited counsellor, accredited, registered member MNCPS working with clients with a variety of different issues such as relationships and couples, addictions; domestic abuse, depression, anxiety, work related stress, building confidence, self esteem, loss and bereavement. I'm honoured to share the journey with my clients. You choose your own goals then we collaborate to achieve them.
I practices in Southend on Sea. I am a senior professional accredited counsellor, accredited, registered member MNCPS working with clients with a variety of different issues such as relationships and couples, addictions; domestic abuse, depression, anxiety, work related stress, building confidence, self esteem, loss and bereavement. I'm honoured to share the journey with my clients. You choose your own goals then we collaborate to achieve them.
01702 418685 View 01702 418685
Photo of Simon Uskuri, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Simon Uskuri
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Benfleet SS7
"The hardest step is making the call, the most rewarding step is knowing that you're in control again." Welcome, my name is Simon, I am a highly qualified friendly experienced Counsellor. I am a accredited member of the BACP and follow the ethical framework. I have worked successfully with individuals from various backgrounds and ages around Essex for a number of years. What I can offer you is a safe space that is confidential and nonjudgmental where you can truly be listened to and within that space we together can explore and find the answers you are searching for.
"The hardest step is making the call, the most rewarding step is knowing that you're in control again." Welcome, my name is Simon, I am a highly qualified friendly experienced Counsellor. I am a accredited member of the BACP and follow the ethical framework. I have worked successfully with individuals from various backgrounds and ages around Essex for a number of years. What I can offer you is a safe space that is confidential and nonjudgmental where you can truly be listened to and within that space we together can explore and find the answers you are searching for.
01702 683020 View 01702 683020
Photo of Joanne Barry - Jobarry-counselling, BACP, Counsellor
Jobarry-counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Leigh-on-Sea SS9
Are you an individual or a couple struggling at the moment? I offer affordable long or short term therapy. I provide a safe comfortable and confidential space for you to talk. I'm a qualified BACP registered person centered counsellor, with experience in attachment, transactional analysis and couples counselling. I help with all things relating to relationships, anxiety, depression, grief and low self-esteem. I will focus on your strenghts finding a suitable way to resolve your difficulties. Whether it is the relationship with yourself, partner, family, friends, colleagues or the death of a relationship I'm here to listen.
Are you an individual or a couple struggling at the moment? I offer affordable long or short term therapy. I provide a safe comfortable and confidential space for you to talk. I'm a qualified BACP registered person centered counsellor, with experience in attachment, transactional analysis and couples counselling. I help with all things relating to relationships, anxiety, depression, grief and low self-esteem. I will focus on your strenghts finding a suitable way to resolve your difficulties. Whether it is the relationship with yourself, partner, family, friends, colleagues or the death of a relationship I'm here to listen.
01702 967570 View 01702 967570
Photo of Emma Mills, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Emma Mills
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Leigh-on-Sea SS9
I enjoy working with adults and children who are drawn to working creatively. It is a privilege to work with those who have experienced trauma in their childhood and who want to work through painful and difficult feelings. I believe all of us deserve to be able to enjoy life, free from depression, stress, fear, and anxiety.
I enjoy working with adults and children who are drawn to working creatively. It is a privilege to work with those who have experienced trauma in their childhood and who want to work through painful and difficult feelings. I believe all of us deserve to be able to enjoy life, free from depression, stress, fear, and anxiety.
01702 967616 View 01702 967616
Photo of Lorraine Anne Bygrave, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Lorraine Anne Bygrave
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Benfleet SS7
If you are struggling right now, I can help. I am experienced in helping clients who are battling with anxiety and depression. I specialise in trauma and PTSD using innovative approaches tailored to each individuals needs. I am adoption trained so am able to help both parents and children who are finding things a little difficult right now.
If you are struggling right now, I can help. I am experienced in helping clients who are battling with anxiety and depression. I specialise in trauma and PTSD using innovative approaches tailored to each individuals needs. I am adoption trained so am able to help both parents and children who are finding things a little difficult right now.
07723 458132 View 07723 458132
Photo of Sian Elizabeth Hines, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Sian Elizabeth Hines
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hockley SS5
I can help you to reach the potential that you want and deserve to reach by helping you to understand your past, present and future. To help you to work through relationship problems, self esteem issues or letting go of the past. To enable you to see past blocks and obstacles so that you can control, minimise and eliminate any anxieties. To work with the negative emotions that you feel so that you can identify quickly what your emotions are telling you and then challenge them so that they do not control you. To magnify the positives and build on them for complete self confidence.
I can help you to reach the potential that you want and deserve to reach by helping you to understand your past, present and future. To help you to work through relationship problems, self esteem issues or letting go of the past. To enable you to see past blocks and obstacles so that you can control, minimise and eliminate any anxieties. To work with the negative emotions that you feel so that you can identify quickly what your emotions are telling you and then challenge them so that they do not control you. To magnify the positives and build on them for complete self confidence.
01702 967425 View 01702 967425
Photo of Emma Litman, MBACP, Counsellor
Emma Litman
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Benfleet SS7
I am a BACP and EMDR Counsellor offering face to face, online and telephone counselling. My clients say that I'm very easy to talk to, warm and friendly. I can help you to explore your issues to help you gain awareness, understanding and get to a place or acceptance of a situation you are struggling with. I am also a qualified NLP and EFT coach offering specific techniques suited to working with any issues related to trauma, depression & anxiety.
I am a BACP and EMDR Counsellor offering face to face, online and telephone counselling. My clients say that I'm very easy to talk to, warm and friendly. I can help you to explore your issues to help you gain awareness, understanding and get to a place or acceptance of a situation you are struggling with. I am also a qualified NLP and EFT coach offering specific techniques suited to working with any issues related to trauma, depression & anxiety.
01268 437498 View 01268 437498
Photo of Kim Strong, MBACP, Counsellor
Kim Strong
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leigh-on-Sea SS9
I provide a safe, supportive and confidential space in which clients can seek insight into any issues of concern. My individual clientele spends all ages including children. I also work with couples and families. Short or long-term therapy is offered. My extensive training allows me to draw upon multiple disciplines to tailor the support to the needs of the client.
I provide a safe, supportive and confidential space in which clients can seek insight into any issues of concern. My individual clientele spends all ages including children. I also work with couples and families. Short or long-term therapy is offered. My extensive training allows me to draw upon multiple disciplines to tailor the support to the needs of the client.
01702 669611 View 01702 669611
Photo of Carl Adams, MBACP, Counsellor
Carl Adams
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hadleigh SS7
Life can bring us many difficulties, challenges, issues, stresses and anxieties. It can also bring many over whelming feelings such as pain, anger, sadness, hopelessness, guilt and regret. I am a gentle, emphathic, non judgmental counsellor; I see myself as a down to earth regular person and believe in talking to people on their own level.
Life can bring us many difficulties, challenges, issues, stresses and anxieties. It can also bring many over whelming feelings such as pain, anger, sadness, hopelessness, guilt and regret. I am a gentle, emphathic, non judgmental counsellor; I see myself as a down to earth regular person and believe in talking to people on their own level.
01702 904166 View 01702 904166

See more therapy options for Rayleigh

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.