LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Ross-on-Wye, ENG

Photo of Kenneth Evans, BPC, Counsellor
Kenneth Evans
Counsellor, BPC
Verified Verified
Ross-on-Wye HR9
Everyone needs a little support from time to time. Perhaps you or someone you know feel that you ought to be able to manage your feelings, but are finding them too much at the moment. You may be feeling overwhelmed, sad, anxious, angry or confused. The demands of work, relationships, families, financial worries, or caring for someone can all make it difficult to cope. You may have experienced loss through bereavement, redundancy, or retirement, or you might be struggling with your sense of identity, self-confidence, health, or direction in home life or at work. You may feel that you are struggling with some other unique issue.
Everyone needs a little support from time to time. Perhaps you or someone you know feel that you ought to be able to manage your feelings, but are finding them too much at the moment. You may be feeling overwhelmed, sad, anxious, angry or confused. The demands of work, relationships, families, financial worries, or caring for someone can all make it difficult to cope. You may have experienced loss through bereavement, redundancy, or retirement, or you might be struggling with your sense of identity, self-confidence, health, or direction in home life or at work. You may feel that you are struggling with some other unique issue.
01989 940023 View 01989 940023
Photo of Valerie Northcote, COSRT Accred, Counsellor
Valerie Northcote
Counsellor, COSRT Accred
Verified Verified
Ross-on-Wye HR9  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing sexual issues in your relationship? Has one of you had an affair? You may have erection problems, difficulty orgasming, painful penetration or lack or no desire for sex. Perhaps you've experienced a trauma in your life which is affecting your ability to connect with your partner or yourself sexually. Have you found yourself or your partner using more and more pornography or behaving sexually in a way that isn't acceptable or is out of control. You want to create a better relationship. You want to recover from the pain of betrayal. You want to live a happy healthy life......
Are you experiencing sexual issues in your relationship? Has one of you had an affair? You may have erection problems, difficulty orgasming, painful penetration or lack or no desire for sex. Perhaps you've experienced a trauma in your life which is affecting your ability to connect with your partner or yourself sexually. Have you found yourself or your partner using more and more pornography or behaving sexually in a way that isn't acceptable or is out of control. You want to create a better relationship. You want to recover from the pain of betrayal. You want to live a happy healthy life......
07449 470212 View 07449 470212
Photo of Mara Giulia McMaster, BACP, Counsellor
Mara Giulia McMaster
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Ross-on-Wye HR9
For me the therapeutic value of therapy is about creating a safe space for the client in which they can start their process of healing. I will enable you tell your story in a way that is not about giving advice but more about empowering you to make the changes that you are looking to make. This might be about yourself or in your relationships with others. The focus of my Therapy is to enable you to explore the parts of you that you wish to look at and to make sense of the world around you. Together we can explore the challenges you might be facing and from those challenges discover solutions which will enable personal growth.
For me the therapeutic value of therapy is about creating a safe space for the client in which they can start their process of healing. I will enable you tell your story in a way that is not about giving advice but more about empowering you to make the changes that you are looking to make. This might be about yourself or in your relationships with others. The focus of my Therapy is to enable you to explore the parts of you that you wish to look at and to make sense of the world around you. Together we can explore the challenges you might be facing and from those challenges discover solutions which will enable personal growth.
07401 194429 View 07401 194429
Photo of Sally Parker, BACP, Counsellor
Sally Parker
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Ross-on-Wye HR9
I am passionate about helping people find their true potential. I believe each one of us has the power to clear away feelings from the past and as a result step into living our best possible lives. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you are free to talk about anything that is on your mind. Together we will shape this space so that it holds the power to influence the change you are hoping to see. Having felt the benefits myself first-hand. A unique personal insight gained from my own counselling coupled with years of comprehensive training has seen me successfully support numerous others through their own transformation.
I am passionate about helping people find their true potential. I believe each one of us has the power to clear away feelings from the past and as a result step into living our best possible lives. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you are free to talk about anything that is on your mind. Together we will shape this space so that it holds the power to influence the change you are hoping to see. Having felt the benefits myself first-hand. A unique personal insight gained from my own counselling coupled with years of comprehensive training has seen me successfully support numerous others through their own transformation.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anwen Thomas, MBACP, Counsellor
Anwen Thomas
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Coleford GL16
Hi, I'm Anwen. I have been a qualified counsellor since 2008 and I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy. I am a warm, empathic and supportive individual and I specialise in working with children and young people having worked in primary schools, secondary schools and further education for many years. I also work with adults, couples and families privately.
Hi, I'm Anwen. I have been a qualified counsellor since 2008 and I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy. I am a warm, empathic and supportive individual and I specialise in working with children and young people having worked in primary schools, secondary schools and further education for many years. I also work with adults, couples and families privately.
07771 591912 View 07771 591912
Photo of Martin David Shotbolt - Eleos Therapeutic Services, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Eleos Therapeutic Services
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Hereford HR2
I'm Martin, a mental health expert with over 25 years of experience. My expertise lies in general mental health and sports psychology. I use methods like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing, and Brain Spotting to help those struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. I prioritise creating a safe space where your voice leads the way. My role will be a support to help you thrive by understanding your unique and individual story and experiences, supporting you to increase personal insight and developing useful skills to tackle life's challenges.
I'm Martin, a mental health expert with over 25 years of experience. My expertise lies in general mental health and sports psychology. I use methods like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing, and Brain Spotting to help those struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. I prioritise creating a safe space where your voice leads the way. My role will be a support to help you thrive by understanding your unique and individual story and experiences, supporting you to increase personal insight and developing useful skills to tackle life's challenges.
01531 808780 View 01531 808780

Online Therapists

Photo of Claire Nunan, MSc, SNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Claire Nunan
Counsellor, MSc, SNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1  (Online Only)
I’m Claire. I am a Senior Accredited Counsellor providing safe and supportive online counselling sessions. I work with a wide range of people but I specialise in working with individuals from the LGBTQ+ and GSRD community, those who are neurodivergent (or think they might be) as well as Millennials and Gen Z-ers.
I’m Claire. I am a Senior Accredited Counsellor providing safe and supportive online counselling sessions. I work with a wide range of people but I specialise in working with individuals from the LGBTQ+ and GSRD community, those who are neurodivergent (or think they might be) as well as Millennials and Gen Z-ers.
0117 463 4729 View 0117 463 4729
Photo of Dr Mohammadrasool Yadegarfard, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Mohammadrasool Yadegarfard
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Luton LU1  (Online Only)
I am qualified to work with people with anxiety, bereavement and loss, depression; identity confusion and change; coming out; self-esteem and shame, trauma and post-traumatic stress and also survivors of sexual abuse. I work with both individuals and couples. I am experienced in working with young people and adults and with people in a range of relationship styles including monogamous, polyamorous and open relationships. I work with all members of LGBT+ and those who do not identify as such but are questioning or exploring this aspect of their sexuality, regardless of their sexual orientation.
I am qualified to work with people with anxiety, bereavement and loss, depression; identity confusion and change; coming out; self-esteem and shame, trauma and post-traumatic stress and also survivors of sexual abuse. I work with both individuals and couples. I am experienced in working with young people and adults and with people in a range of relationship styles including monogamous, polyamorous and open relationships. I work with all members of LGBT+ and those who do not identify as such but are questioning or exploring this aspect of their sexuality, regardless of their sexual orientation.
01582 349465 View 01582 349465
Photo of Alex Sanderson-Shortt, MA, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Alex Sanderson-Shortt
Counsellor, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Northwich CW9
Waitlist for new clients
I am a highly experienced relationship counsellor and supervisor who works with couples, individuals and polyamorous/open relationships across a range of issues. I specialise in working with LGBT clients and those in open and poly relationships. I work effectively and non-judgementally with affairs and betrayal, communication issues, family and work pressures, anxiety and depression etc. I work in a sex positive way with sexual issues as part of relationship therapy and work with kink clients and sex workers.
I am a highly experienced relationship counsellor and supervisor who works with couples, individuals and polyamorous/open relationships across a range of issues. I specialise in working with LGBT clients and those in open and poly relationships. I work effectively and non-judgementally with affairs and betrayal, communication issues, family and work pressures, anxiety and depression etc. I work in a sex positive way with sexual issues as part of relationship therapy and work with kink clients and sex workers.
01606 532680 View 01606 532680
Photo of Iulian Chear, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Iulian Chear
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
Additionally, I specialise in working with issues surrounding gender, sexuality and identity, and the specific needs of the LGBTQIA+/ GSRD community.
Asking yourself how you can make your life more meaningful, in spite of whatever issue you may be struggling with? Counselling can help you make sense of it and move forward. I provide a safe, engaging, and supportive space for you to explore any issue that is troubling you. The ultimate goal would be to help you create a more meaningful life and new ways of approaching your relationship with yourself and others.
Additionally, I specialise in working with issues surrounding gender, sexuality and identity, and the specific needs of the LGBTQIA+/ GSRD community.
Asking yourself how you can make your life more meaningful, in spite of whatever issue you may be struggling with? Counselling can help you make sense of it and move forward. I provide a safe, engaging, and supportive space for you to explore any issue that is troubling you. The ultimate goal would be to help you create a more meaningful life and new ways of approaching your relationship with yourself and others.
0117 463 7137 View 0117 463 7137
Photo of Connor Walker, MSc, BACP, Counsellor
Connor Walker
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Nantwich CW5
In therapy relationship is the most important thing, you need to feel comfortable and able to trust your therapist. I work with a lot of people that have had challenging experiences with counselling or are nervous to come to counselling. My goal is to make you as comfortable as possible. I work with a variety of mental health challenges and normally focus on achievable change. I also work with LGBTQ+ people to help them in an environment where they can feel supported and not have to worry about judgement.
In therapy relationship is the most important thing, you need to feel comfortable and able to trust your therapist. I work with a lot of people that have had challenging experiences with counselling or are nervous to come to counselling. My goal is to make you as comfortable as possible. I work with a variety of mental health challenges and normally focus on achievable change. I also work with LGBTQ+ people to help them in an environment where they can feel supported and not have to worry about judgement.
01707 241066 View 01707 241066
Photo of Marley Raven, MBACP, Counsellor
Marley Raven
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4  (Online Only)
I mainly work with LGBTQ+ adults who wish to meet a counsellor where those aspects of their identity will not be unnecessarily questioned or looked at, but can be spoken about respectfully and safely. I aim to offer you a sense of hope and empowerment, along with techniques you could use in your life to enhance or help you cope with your experience of existence. I can support you to explore whatever is going on in your life such as stress, grief (including for loss of pets), exploring gender identity, exploring sexuality, body image, anxiety or depression.
I mainly work with LGBTQ+ adults who wish to meet a counsellor where those aspects of their identity will not be unnecessarily questioned or looked at, but can be spoken about respectfully and safely. I aim to offer you a sense of hope and empowerment, along with techniques you could use in your life to enhance or help you cope with your experience of existence. I can support you to explore whatever is going on in your life such as stress, grief (including for loss of pets), exploring gender identity, exploring sexuality, body image, anxiety or depression.
01392 531594 View 01392 531594
Photo of Michael Blakeborough, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Michael Blakeborough
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Melksham SN12
I also have first hand experience growing up as a gay male surrounded by societal prejudice and yet I have thrived as a person as a result of my own life changing experience in counselling.
I am experienced in providing counselling to adults and I am ACTO certified for online and telephone counselling and clinical supervision. I use an integrative humanistic approach where I will walk alongside you within your process while providing a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space. I will challenge you when it may be helpful to unlock and discover more about you or your mental health. I will also safely encourage you to connect with your emotions as we work together with no pressure to go any deeper than you are comfortable going, as we build a unique and trusting counselling relationship to reach your goals.
I also have first hand experience growing up as a gay male surrounded by societal prejudice and yet I have thrived as a person as a result of my own life changing experience in counselling.
I am experienced in providing counselling to adults and I am ACTO certified for online and telephone counselling and clinical supervision. I use an integrative humanistic approach where I will walk alongside you within your process while providing a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space. I will challenge you when it may be helpful to unlock and discover more about you or your mental health. I will also safely encourage you to connect with your emotions as we work together with no pressure to go any deeper than you are comfortable going, as we build a unique and trusting counselling relationship to reach your goals.
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Photo of Rob Millist - Rob Millist Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Rob Millist Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ascot SL5
Trauma-Wise, ADHD / Autism, and LGBTQIA+ Counsellor available on Mondays (limited), and Thursday and Friday PM and evenings, for face to face sessions in Ascot or via Zoom / Phone. I'm trained and experienced in helping young people (11+) and adults who are struggling with their mental health. I’m also an experienced Schools Counsellor, a role I muchly enjoy. Are you experiencing difficulty on an every day level that is getting in the way of how you'd truly like to be? If you want to work on your issues and goals with me, let's team up and explore what you need, in line with your values, and how we can get you there.
Trauma-Wise, ADHD / Autism, and LGBTQIA+ Counsellor available on Mondays (limited), and Thursday and Friday PM and evenings, for face to face sessions in Ascot or via Zoom / Phone. I'm trained and experienced in helping young people (11+) and adults who are struggling with their mental health. I’m also an experienced Schools Counsellor, a role I muchly enjoy. Are you experiencing difficulty on an every day level that is getting in the way of how you'd truly like to be? If you want to work on your issues and goals with me, let's team up and explore what you need, in line with your values, and how we can get you there.
01784 918298 View 01784 918298
Photo of Vivienne Watson, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Vivienne Watson
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS2
Hello, I’m Vivienne, I’m a qualified counsellor who works with the LGBTQIA+ community. As a queer woman with a mixed heritage background, I work in a way that looks at how the different identities you might hold can impact you. People have their own unique experiences of discrimination and oppression and that matters to me.
Hello, I’m Vivienne, I’m a qualified counsellor who works with the LGBTQIA+ community. As a queer woman with a mixed heritage background, I work in a way that looks at how the different identities you might hold can impact you. People have their own unique experiences of discrimination and oppression and that matters to me.
0117 463 8481 View 0117 463 8481
Photo of Helen Young - HY Counselling, Autism, ADHD and Neurodiversity, MSc, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
HY Counselling, Autism, ADHD and Neurodiversity
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Fareham PO15
I provide a friendly and professional counselling service where I help you to normalise, understand and manage your experiences. I am experienced in working with a range of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma and relationship difficulties. One area that I specialise in is autism and other neurodivergent profiles. My sessions are neuro-affirmative and LGBTQ+ friendly. Being autistic and neurodivergent myself means that I can relate to, and have experienced first-hand, some of the opportunities and challenges resulting from being autistic and neurodivergent.
I provide a friendly and professional counselling service where I help you to normalise, understand and manage your experiences. I am experienced in working with a range of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma and relationship difficulties. One area that I specialise in is autism and other neurodivergent profiles. My sessions are neuro-affirmative and LGBTQ+ friendly. Being autistic and neurodivergent myself means that I can relate to, and have experienced first-hand, some of the opportunities and challenges resulting from being autistic and neurodivergent.
01329 756804 View 01329 756804
Photo of Olivia Rose Shaw - Olivia Rose Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Olivia Rose Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bracknell RG12  (Online Only)
Not being accepted for your full identity, experiencing the turmoil of family conflict or disconnection, or healing from abuse may have lead to you feeling confused, anxious, angry, ashamed or frustrated, or just completely fed up. You might wonder if you're good enough, or "normal". I am particularly passionate about helping people who feel like an 'other', with a profound sense of difference from family, friends or community. I have professional and lived experience and understanding of the LGBT+ community, neurodiverse individuals and survivors of parental abuse and neglect, as well as sexual abuse.
Not being accepted for your full identity, experiencing the turmoil of family conflict or disconnection, or healing from abuse may have lead to you feeling confused, anxious, angry, ashamed or frustrated, or just completely fed up. You might wonder if you're good enough, or "normal". I am particularly passionate about helping people who feel like an 'other', with a profound sense of difference from family, friends or community. I have professional and lived experience and understanding of the LGBT+ community, neurodiverse individuals and survivors of parental abuse and neglect, as well as sexual abuse.
01344 951381 View 01344 951381
Photo of Mark Ellis, MA, BACP, Counsellor
Mark Ellis
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX4
While my work encompasses a wide array of issues, such as trauma, anxiety and depression, I have a particular interest in relationships, sex, sexuality and gender. I work with adults and teenagers, in my office in East Oxford and online. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming. I welcome people of all gender identities, relationship structures, sexual practices and orientations. I strive to be anti-racist and see this as life-long work. Whatever you may be experiencing, I am here to guide you through my therapeutic process, drawing on evidence-based techniques, together with deep empathy and careful attention to detail.
While my work encompasses a wide array of issues, such as trauma, anxiety and depression, I have a particular interest in relationships, sex, sexuality and gender. I work with adults and teenagers, in my office in East Oxford and online. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming. I welcome people of all gender identities, relationship structures, sexual practices and orientations. I strive to be anti-racist and see this as life-long work. Whatever you may be experiencing, I am here to guide you through my therapeutic process, drawing on evidence-based techniques, together with deep empathy and careful attention to detail.
01865 587111 View 01865 587111
Photo of Eric William Blencowe, MBACP, Counsellor
Eric William Blencowe
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS16
uk/ for more information); living with Life-Limiting Illnesses; difficulties and challenges experienced being LGBTQ&A; and difficulties arising within mixed-race relationships.
I believe the most important thing in counselling is to develop a relationship of trust and confidence between therapist and client. I provide clients with a safe, confidential and warm space for them to reflect on the challenges they bring. Coming to counselling can be a daunting step; as a result it is that much more important to come into an accepting, empathic, non-judgemental environment. I take the view that there is no single approach that can be helpful to you in all situations. This gives more choice of how you want to look at your issues and creates flexibility to tailor therapy to your individual needs and aspirations.
uk/ for more information); living with Life-Limiting Illnesses; difficulties and challenges experienced being LGBTQ&A; and difficulties arising within mixed-race relationships.
I believe the most important thing in counselling is to develop a relationship of trust and confidence between therapist and client. I provide clients with a safe, confidential and warm space for them to reflect on the challenges they bring. Coming to counselling can be a daunting step; as a result it is that much more important to come into an accepting, empathic, non-judgemental environment. I take the view that there is no single approach that can be helpful to you in all situations. This gives more choice of how you want to look at your issues and creates flexibility to tailor therapy to your individual needs and aspirations.
0117 456 2592 View 0117 456 2592
Photo of Mark Sisterson, COSRT General, Counsellor
Mark Sisterson
Counsellor, COSRT General
Verified Verified
Birmingham B43  (Online Only)
I have almost 20 years experience working in the charity sector and the NHS in sexual health/HIV, sexual violence, and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.
Facing challenges in your sex life or relationship? Finding life difficult and feeling it could be better? Wanting to explore your identity? Hoping to heal from trauma? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then I may be able to help. I am a fully qualified counsellor and psychosexual (sex) and relationships therapist offering support to individuals, couples and other relationships. I approach therapy from a number of different therapeutic approaches, working with you directly to understand your goals and tailoring the therapy to your specific needs.
I have almost 20 years experience working in the charity sector and the NHS in sexual health/HIV, sexual violence, and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.
Facing challenges in your sex life or relationship? Finding life difficult and feeling it could be better? Wanting to explore your identity? Hoping to heal from trauma? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then I may be able to help. I am a fully qualified counsellor and psychosexual (sex) and relationships therapist offering support to individuals, couples and other relationships. I approach therapy from a number of different therapeutic approaches, working with you directly to understand your goals and tailoring the therapy to your specific needs.
0121 227 7905 View 0121 227 7905

See more therapy options for Ross-on-Wye

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.