LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Edinburgh, SCT
I am also a Sex Therapist and have experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community specialising in sexuality, gender identity, self confidence & same sex relationships.
I am an Edinburgh based Sex and relationship counsellor working full time in private practice with individuals & couples. My practice is based in central Edinburgh however I am currently working online. I specialise in explorative & action based proactive talk therapy aimed at helping you achieve the changes you would like to make in your life & to help you gain clarity & understanding to the life experiences you would like to work with.
I am also a Sex Therapist and have experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community specialising in sexuality, gender identity, self confidence & same sex relationships.
I am an Edinburgh based Sex and relationship counsellor working full time in private practice with individuals & couples. My practice is based in central Edinburgh however I am currently working online. I specialise in explorative & action based proactive talk therapy aimed at helping you achieve the changes you would like to make in your life & to help you gain clarity & understanding to the life experiences you would like to work with.
I specialise in the treatment of anxiety disorders, low mood, trauma, issues facing the LGBT+ community & sports performance. My clinical education has included studies in gender and body image, CBT theory, IFS theory, sports performance, EMDR, group therapy, the impact of trauma on the LGBTQ+ community, and trauma response. As a therapist, I look to show acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I believe that each of us has the capacity to work through our suffering and has the potential to turn this into resilience and growth. I use a variety of different approaches including EMDR Therapy. Sessions will take place online.
I specialise in the treatment of anxiety disorders, low mood, trauma, issues facing the LGBT+ community & sports performance. My clinical education has included studies in gender and body image, CBT theory, IFS theory, sports performance, EMDR, group therapy, the impact of trauma on the LGBTQ+ community, and trauma response. As a therapist, I look to show acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I believe that each of us has the capacity to work through our suffering and has the potential to turn this into resilience and growth. I use a variety of different approaches including EMDR Therapy. Sessions will take place online.
Are you going through a difficult transition? Struggling to make sense of relationships or experiences? I may be able to help. My name is Han, and I'm a therapist based in Edinburgh with years of experience counselling adults and young people. I have specific experience working with LGBTQ+ clients as well as trauma and dissociation. In the counselling room, I bring with me this clinical perspective as well as my own understanding of the world and what it is to be human.
Are you going through a difficult transition? Struggling to make sense of relationships or experiences? I may be able to help. My name is Han, and I'm a therapist based in Edinburgh with years of experience counselling adults and young people. I have specific experience working with LGBTQ+ clients as well as trauma and dissociation. In the counselling room, I bring with me this clinical perspective as well as my own understanding of the world and what it is to be human.
While there is so much joy in getting to know ourselves deeply and authentically, living as a queer and/or transgender person in this world is not always easy. I specialise in gender, sexuality, and relationship diversity. I work with adults and older adolescents who are LGBTQIA+/gender non-conforming, or questioning their identities. I also specialise in trauma recovery, treating healthcare professionals, and working with English speaking immigrants. I work from multiple affirming perspectives, including Health at Every Size, neurodiversity affirming, disability affirming, and fat-positive perspectives.
While there is so much joy in getting to know ourselves deeply and authentically, living as a queer and/or transgender person in this world is not always easy. I specialise in gender, sexuality, and relationship diversity. I work with adults and older adolescents who are LGBTQIA+/gender non-conforming, or questioning their identities. I also specialise in trauma recovery, treating healthcare professionals, and working with English speaking immigrants. I work from multiple affirming perspectives, including Health at Every Size, neurodiversity affirming, disability affirming, and fat-positive perspectives.
Hello, I'm Zoe - it's a pleasure to meet you. I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy. I provide a warm, safe and nurturing space to support you on your therapeutic journey. As a therapist, I am committed to ensure that your therapy sessions are co-constructed to meet your individual therapeutic needs. Benefitting from shared-decision making, a focus on therapeutic direction as well as empathy, support, compassion and attention, you can expect a uniquely inclusive and collaborative therapeutic experience.
Hello, I'm Zoe - it's a pleasure to meet you. I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy. I provide a warm, safe and nurturing space to support you on your therapeutic journey. As a therapist, I am committed to ensure that your therapy sessions are co-constructed to meet your individual therapeutic needs. Benefitting from shared-decision making, a focus on therapeutic direction as well as empathy, support, compassion and attention, you can expect a uniquely inclusive and collaborative therapeutic experience.
Although each person’s situation is unique, some of the many issues I work with include: bereavement and other losses; exploring gender, sex and relationship diversity, and offering an affirming approach to LGBTQ+ clients; chronic illness and disability; relationship issues; the impact of the pandemic and COVID-19.
Are you feeling anxious or struggling? This could be through a bereavement, or difficulties in a relationship. Perhaps health issues such as chronic illness, disability or menopause have affected how you are feeling. Maybe work is causing you stress, or you have been made redundant. Do you feel misunderstood or not heard? Maybe you don’t have somewhere you feel supported to be yourself and to speak freely. Perhaps you feel like you don't have anyone to talk to who understands. You may need a place to be heard and to explore your feelings.
Although each person’s situation is unique, some of the many issues I work with include: bereavement and other losses; exploring gender, sex and relationship diversity, and offering an affirming approach to LGBTQ+ clients; chronic illness and disability; relationship issues; the impact of the pandemic and COVID-19.
Are you feeling anxious or struggling? This could be through a bereavement, or difficulties in a relationship. Perhaps health issues such as chronic illness, disability or menopause have affected how you are feeling. Maybe work is causing you stress, or you have been made redundant. Do you feel misunderstood or not heard? Maybe you don’t have somewhere you feel supported to be yourself and to speak freely. Perhaps you feel like you don't have anyone to talk to who understands. You may need a place to be heard and to explore your feelings.
My own experiences of discrimination as a Queer person has shaped my trauma-informed practice.
Do you feel like you live in a world that doesn’t accept who you are? A dear friend of mine once summed up this feeling beautifully: “Being LGBTIQ+ is not my issue, it’s living in a world where others take issue with me being LGBTIQ+”. When we live in a society that does not see or respect our difference we internalize a lot of messages and beliefs about who we should, or should not, be. Trying to shape ourselves into an image that doesn’t fit isn’t just exhausting - it’s traumatizing! Hi, my name is Gavin and I identify as a gender non-conforming Queer person.
My own experiences of discrimination as a Queer person has shaped my trauma-informed practice.
Do you feel like you live in a world that doesn’t accept who you are? A dear friend of mine once summed up this feeling beautifully: “Being LGBTIQ+ is not my issue, it’s living in a world where others take issue with me being LGBTIQ+”. When we live in a society that does not see or respect our difference we internalize a lot of messages and beliefs about who we should, or should not, be. Trying to shape ourselves into an image that doesn’t fit isn’t just exhausting - it’s traumatizing! Hi, my name is Gavin and I identify as a gender non-conforming Queer person.
From childhood we are given messages about the ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ ways to feel, think and behave – messages that can teach us that we must hide or supress aspects of our authentic selves in order to be acceptable to others. If you’re an LGBTQ+ person, your sexuality and gender might completely unrelated to what has brought you to counselling, but you still want to know that your therapist will affirm these parts of you. In my online therapy room, you are invited to be your whole uncensored self in the company of somebody who values you unconditionally and really listens. I am a queer therapist with trauma informed training.
From childhood we are given messages about the ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ ways to feel, think and behave – messages that can teach us that we must hide or supress aspects of our authentic selves in order to be acceptable to others. If you’re an LGBTQ+ person, your sexuality and gender might completely unrelated to what has brought you to counselling, but you still want to know that your therapist will affirm these parts of you. In my online therapy room, you are invited to be your whole uncensored self in the company of somebody who values you unconditionally and really listens. I am a queer therapist with trauma informed training.
I am an LGBTQ+ member, and enthusiastic ally for other queer folk.
I am person-centred therapist with experience in supporting people going through a range of confusion and distress. This can include: anxiety and stress, family and relationship difficulties, sexuality and gender identity, low mood, loss, feeling stuck, and self esteem. Therapy can hopefully offer you a space to explore and connect with your true self. A reconnecting which in itself often helps to reduce tension and anxiety. We will work together with whatever you bring to therapy and gently explore your individual process as we go. I work online and outdoors (Fermanagh, NI).
I am an LGBTQ+ member, and enthusiastic ally for other queer folk.
I am person-centred therapist with experience in supporting people going through a range of confusion and distress. This can include: anxiety and stress, family and relationship difficulties, sexuality and gender identity, low mood, loss, feeling stuck, and self esteem. Therapy can hopefully offer you a space to explore and connect with your true self. A reconnecting which in itself often helps to reduce tension and anxiety. We will work together with whatever you bring to therapy and gently explore your individual process as we go. I work online and outdoors (Fermanagh, NI).
Hello, I'm Claudia (she/her), a dedicated Bristol based psychotherapist with a passion for justice and equality. I aim to create a safe and affirming space for individuals of diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, those exploring kink or polyamory, and anyone navigating questions of gender, sexuality, or identity. I approach therapy with gentleness and a genuine curiosity about the vast spectrum of human experiences. I am here to support you as you journey through your unique story, at your own pace. When you feel stuck or uncertain, I use active, compassionate listening to guide you forward.
Hello, I'm Claudia (she/her), a dedicated Bristol based psychotherapist with a passion for justice and equality. I aim to create a safe and affirming space for individuals of diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, those exploring kink or polyamory, and anyone navigating questions of gender, sexuality, or identity. I approach therapy with gentleness and a genuine curiosity about the vast spectrum of human experiences. I am here to support you as you journey through your unique story, at your own pace. When you feel stuck or uncertain, I use active, compassionate listening to guide you forward.
I specialise in working with LGBTQ+ clients and those who have always felt ‘different’ in some way. Your identity and experiences might make you worry that most therapists out there wouldn’t get you. You might be looking for help because you are experiencing anxiety, relationship challenges, difficulties making decisions or setting boundaries. It might seem like you have too many overwhelming feelings, or rarely any feelings at all. I understand that your identity may not be the reason you’re coming to therapy, but you don’t want to have to spend your session time educating your therapist about it.
I specialise in working with LGBTQ+ clients and those who have always felt ‘different’ in some way. Your identity and experiences might make you worry that most therapists out there wouldn’t get you. You might be looking for help because you are experiencing anxiety, relationship challenges, difficulties making decisions or setting boundaries. It might seem like you have too many overwhelming feelings, or rarely any feelings at all. I understand that your identity may not be the reason you’re coming to therapy, but you don’t want to have to spend your session time educating your therapist about it.
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I can help you explore, and make sense of anxiety, bereavement, consensual non-monogamous relationships, death and non-related death losses, diasporic issues, grief, hoarding, identity, isolation, LGBTQIA+, loneliness, polyamory, relationship counselling, and unconventional lifestyles.
My name is Irene. I am an individual and relationship counsellor, and I specialise in pluralistic and philosophical counselling. I believe each client is unique, and my practice focuses on creating a tailored counselling experience for each individual by creating a non-judgmental space for them to explore and become aware of their experiences and feelings. I position myself as "in" the therapy alongside my client. I try to let the client's pace and rhythm guide the therapy. I offer counselling sessions in English and Italian.
I can help you explore, and make sense of anxiety, bereavement, consensual non-monogamous relationships, death and non-related death losses, diasporic issues, grief, hoarding, identity, isolation, LGBTQIA+, loneliness, polyamory, relationship counselling, and unconventional lifestyles.
My name is Irene. I am an individual and relationship counsellor, and I specialise in pluralistic and philosophical counselling. I believe each client is unique, and my practice focuses on creating a tailored counselling experience for each individual by creating a non-judgmental space for them to explore and become aware of their experiences and feelings. I position myself as "in" the therapy alongside my client. I try to let the client's pace and rhythm guide the therapy. I offer counselling sessions in English and Italian.
I'm also an LGBTQA+ ally and often work with ethical non-monogamy.
Hi there, my name is Ana and I'm a psychodynamic therapist and supervisor with a special interest and experience in working with those affected by existential issues and a Masters thesis in working with adult children of parents with narcissistic traits. In my client work, I draw on my background in psychology, philosophy and systemic therapy, as well as psychodynamic therapy and attachment theory which looks at the unconscious relational processes between us and finds links between what you're experiencing in the present and your early childhood and family experiences. My supervision approach is both psychodynamic and integrative.
I'm also an LGBTQA+ ally and often work with ethical non-monogamy.
Hi there, my name is Ana and I'm a psychodynamic therapist and supervisor with a special interest and experience in working with those affected by existential issues and a Masters thesis in working with adult children of parents with narcissistic traits. In my client work, I draw on my background in psychology, philosophy and systemic therapy, as well as psychodynamic therapy and attachment theory which looks at the unconscious relational processes between us and finds links between what you're experiencing in the present and your early childhood and family experiences. My supervision approach is both psychodynamic and integrative.
I also understand the pressure related to family, gender, ethnicity, race,LGBTQ+ difference, social class, and religion.
I get that it’s not easy to ask for support and admit to vulnerability. I view therapy as as a journey of discovery, healing and growth. Through 'experiential learning' and 'dialogue' we will work with your ‘embodied awareness’ of ‘how’ you are in relationships, ‘how’ you make choices and ‘how’ you co-create your world. We will look at where you feel 'stuck' and what seems 'difficult'; we will 'stay with' the feelings and complexity that may unfold. I believe change happens organically when we have enough 'support', fully acknowledge the situation we are in, and commit to work.If that resonates with you, please contact me.
I also understand the pressure related to family, gender, ethnicity, race,LGBTQ+ difference, social class, and religion.
I get that it’s not easy to ask for support and admit to vulnerability. I view therapy as as a journey of discovery, healing and growth. Through 'experiential learning' and 'dialogue' we will work with your ‘embodied awareness’ of ‘how’ you are in relationships, ‘how’ you make choices and ‘how’ you co-create your world. We will look at where you feel 'stuck' and what seems 'difficult'; we will 'stay with' the feelings and complexity that may unfold. I believe change happens organically when we have enough 'support', fully acknowledge the situation we are in, and commit to work.If that resonates with you, please contact me.
Hi there, I’m Amy and I provide counselling to individual adults. I enjoy working with a diverse range of ages, genders and backgrounds. Areas that I have experience working with include issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, suicidal ideation and self-harm, relationship problems, LGBTQ+ experience and low self-esteem. Perhaps you will feel more drawn to a free-flowing exploration of past or present experiences. Or maybe you are looking for more structure to work on behaviour change. The therapeutic process that I offer can be flexible to respond to whatever you may need in each moment.
Hi there, I’m Amy and I provide counselling to individual adults. I enjoy working with a diverse range of ages, genders and backgrounds. Areas that I have experience working with include issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, suicidal ideation and self-harm, relationship problems, LGBTQ+ experience and low self-esteem. Perhaps you will feel more drawn to a free-flowing exploration of past or present experiences. Or maybe you are looking for more structure to work on behaviour change. The therapeutic process that I offer can be flexible to respond to whatever you may need in each moment.
I have an affirmative stance on working with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA+) and polyamorous clients and welcome clients of all races, genders, sexual orientations and relationship styles.
Sometimes life throws challenges in front of us which we may struggle to cope with. This could be a sudden and unexpected change like a loss or bereavement. It could be something that we have always struggled with that is making it challenging to move forward with life. Situations such as these can be stressful, and sometimes we can't shake off the anxiety and depression or we may even experience anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure in usually pleasurable activities). It might also be a past trauma or abuse that is causing the challenges in the present life, revealing itself as panic for example.
I have an affirmative stance on working with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA+) and polyamorous clients and welcome clients of all races, genders, sexual orientations and relationship styles.
Sometimes life throws challenges in front of us which we may struggle to cope with. This could be a sudden and unexpected change like a loss or bereavement. It could be something that we have always struggled with that is making it challenging to move forward with life. Situations such as these can be stressful, and sometimes we can't shake off the anxiety and depression or we may even experience anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure in usually pleasurable activities). It might also be a past trauma or abuse that is causing the challenges in the present life, revealing itself as panic for example.
I am a GSRD psychotherapist, offering a safe space for LGBTQIA+ and consensual non-monogamous clients and I am kink aware.
Sometimes life is difficult and you want something different, a change for yourself. Therapy is a space where we can share our stories, our histories that influence the person we are, the suffering we may experience. Through this process, we can develop new insights into what has shaped us as people. I offer a safe, empathic and confidential space where you can explore, without judgement, your story and any personal difficulties you are experiencing. I will work with you, in your rhythm, to help you deepen your awareness of your experiences, thoughts, and embodied feelings.
I am a GSRD psychotherapist, offering a safe space for LGBTQIA+ and consensual non-monogamous clients and I am kink aware.
Sometimes life is difficult and you want something different, a change for yourself. Therapy is a space where we can share our stories, our histories that influence the person we are, the suffering we may experience. Through this process, we can develop new insights into what has shaped us as people. I offer a safe, empathic and confidential space where you can explore, without judgement, your story and any personal difficulties you are experiencing. I will work with you, in your rhythm, to help you deepen your awareness of your experiences, thoughts, and embodied feelings.
Hello! I'm Jordan. I will try to keep this as brief as possible! ... I am a qualified counsellor with experience in working with adults and young people to support them with a variety of issues, such as: anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, body-image issues, disordered eating, self-harm, grief & loss, LGBTQIA+ issues, stress and issues relating to neurodivergence. My counselling training encompassed the Pluralistic approach to counselling/therapy. In short, the Pluralistic approach is all about us collaborating with each other to determine the best way to support you.
Hello! I'm Jordan. I will try to keep this as brief as possible! ... I am a qualified counsellor with experience in working with adults and young people to support them with a variety of issues, such as: anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, body-image issues, disordered eating, self-harm, grief & loss, LGBTQIA+ issues, stress and issues relating to neurodivergence. My counselling training encompassed the Pluralistic approach to counselling/therapy. In short, the Pluralistic approach is all about us collaborating with each other to determine the best way to support you.
As well as working in my own practice, I volunteer with LGBT Health and Wellbeing.
Hello and welcome. You’re probably considering making some changes in your life, or you are looking for help to address some difficulties that may be hindering your personal growth. It may be that you are not yet sure what you are looking for. My aim is to support you with compassion and empathy, and help you explore and better understand whatever is going on for you. I will stay alongside you and help you to challenge yourself as you come to terms with past decisions and make some new ones.
As well as working in my own practice, I volunteer with LGBT Health and Wellbeing.
Hello and welcome. You’re probably considering making some changes in your life, or you are looking for help to address some difficulties that may be hindering your personal growth. It may be that you are not yet sure what you are looking for. My aim is to support you with compassion and empathy, and help you explore and better understand whatever is going on for you. I will stay alongside you and help you to challenge yourself as you come to terms with past decisions and make some new ones.
My primary areas of experience and expertise include working with neurodivergent clients, LGBTQIA+ clients, pregnancy-related issues (trying to conceive, planned or unplanned pregnancy, miscarriage, abortion, pregnancy, birth, and post-partum), grief and mourning, trauma recovery, and spirituality.
I offer pluralistic counselling/psychotherapy through an intersectional feminist lens. I work in a collaborative, non-pathologising way. My services include both open-ended counselling/psychotherapy and time-limited counselling/psychotherapy (12 sessions with an option to renew).
My primary areas of experience and expertise include working with neurodivergent clients, LGBTQIA+ clients, pregnancy-related issues (trying to conceive, planned or unplanned pregnancy, miscarriage, abortion, pregnancy, birth, and post-partum), grief and mourning, trauma recovery, and spirituality.
I offer pluralistic counselling/psychotherapy through an intersectional feminist lens. I work in a collaborative, non-pathologising way. My services include both open-ended counselling/psychotherapy and time-limited counselling/psychotherapy (12 sessions with an option to renew).
See more therapy options for Edinburgh
Nearby LGBTQ+ Counsellors Searches for Edinburgh
- Airdrie
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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.