Transgender Counselling in Abingdon

Photo of John Bristow, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
John Bristow
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
2 Endorsed
Abingdon OX14
You might be struggling with anxiety, overthinking, or feeling on edge. Maybe relationships feel draining, or being neurodivergent makes everyday life harder to manage. I offer counselling that helps you slow things down, understand your triggers, and build practical ways to cope. The aim is simple, less pressure, more clarity, and a steadier sense of self.
You might be struggling with anxiety, overthinking, or feeling on edge. Maybe relationships feel draining, or being neurodivergent makes everyday life harder to manage. I offer counselling that helps you slow things down, understand your triggers, and build practical ways to cope. The aim is simple, less pressure, more clarity, and a steadier sense of self.
01235 427908 View 01235 427908
Photo of Sara Elphinstone, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Sara Elphinstone
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Abingdon OX13
Are you looking for a therapist with lived experience of autism/ADHD? I work with neurodivergent people whether you are formally diagnosed or self identified. I work online and in person in Oxford and Abingdon, Oxfordshire.  My practice is neuroaffirming - grounded in respect, curiosity and the belief that neurodivergence is a valid and valuable way of being -not something to fix, but something to understand and learn how to live authentically with. I can help you to explore you experiences, understand yourself more deeply and process the impact of unmet needs. I am trauma-informed and I draw on a range of therapeutic tools.
Are you looking for a therapist with lived experience of autism/ADHD? I work with neurodivergent people whether you are formally diagnosed or self identified. I work online and in person in Oxford and Abingdon, Oxfordshire.  My practice is neuroaffirming - grounded in respect, curiosity and the belief that neurodivergence is a valid and valuable way of being -not something to fix, but something to understand and learn how to live authentically with. I can help you to explore you experiences, understand yourself more deeply and process the impact of unmet needs. I am trauma-informed and I draw on a range of therapeutic tools.
07903 496352 View 07903 496352
Photo of Ameda Blades, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Ameda Blades
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Online Only
Hi, I’m Ameda (she/her), a dual-national therapist offering 1:1 online sessions (50 mins). With 25 years' experience in health and social care (NHS & private), I work in a BAME and LGBTQIA+ affirmative way. I'm trained in critical incident response and support clients after high-impact events. I offer SCID-D assessments, diagnostic support, and tailored treatment plans. I'm a registered member of ISSTD, ESTD, and BACP.
Hi, I’m Ameda (she/her), a dual-national therapist offering 1:1 online sessions (50 mins). With 25 years' experience in health and social care (NHS & private), I work in a BAME and LGBTQIA+ affirmative way. I'm trained in critical incident response and support clients after high-impact events. I offer SCID-D assessments, diagnostic support, and tailored treatment plans. I'm a registered member of ISSTD, ESTD, and BACP.
07747 652008 View 07747 652008
Photo of Georgie Hedges, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Georgie Hedges
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
I'm friendly, flexible and non judgemental, offering understanding and empathy and I specialise working with young people and adults. My approach is unique to each client, factoring developmental and chronological ages. I work interactively, person-centred, yet directively and creatively- integrating arts/games therapies with CBT. I find individual ways to connect to every client and find humour, where appropriate, can go a long way to heal. I work to help young people understand their behaviours and motivations and challenge perspectives, whilst being very much on their level. EFT and Hypnotherapy qualified practitioner.
I'm friendly, flexible and non judgemental, offering understanding and empathy and I specialise working with young people and adults. My approach is unique to each client, factoring developmental and chronological ages. I work interactively, person-centred, yet directively and creatively- integrating arts/games therapies with CBT. I find individual ways to connect to every client and find humour, where appropriate, can go a long way to heal. I work to help young people understand their behaviours and motivations and challenge perspectives, whilst being very much on their level. EFT and Hypnotherapy qualified practitioner.
01235 639263 View 01235 639263
Photo of Mark Ellis, Counsellor, MA, BACP
Mark Ellis
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Serves Area
Painful sex, low sex desire, difficulty reaching orgasm, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation: I am currently only offering focused, 8-week sessions for couples and polycules addressing any of these issues, in my office in East Oxford or online. Please get in touch by email to arrange an initial call to find out more. For any other issue, please contact me to join my waiting list. 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.
Painful sex, low sex desire, difficulty reaching orgasm, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation: I am currently only offering focused, 8-week sessions for couples and polycules addressing any of these issues, in my office in East Oxford or online. Please get in touch by email to arrange an initial call to find out more. For any other issue, please contact me to join my waiting list. 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.
01865 587111 View 01865 587111
Photo of Julie Jenner, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Julie Jenner
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Serves Area
We are in some challenging times and there is opportunity for both support with 'here and now issues' and deeper exploration of being you. I am an experienced and highly trained Integrative Body Psychotherapist, Couples Psychotherapist and Trauma Recovery Specialist having been in the field for over 25 years. I help you experientially with life and relationship challenges in a mind, body and spirit process. I include the neurobiology of relationship, attachment, internal parts systems, transgenerational trauma recovery, birth psychology and transpersonal realms. Professional Supervision, Training and Consultancy available.
We are in some challenging times and there is opportunity for both support with 'here and now issues' and deeper exploration of being you. I am an experienced and highly trained Integrative Body Psychotherapist, Couples Psychotherapist and Trauma Recovery Specialist having been in the field for over 25 years. I help you experientially with life and relationship challenges in a mind, body and spirit process. I include the neurobiology of relationship, attachment, internal parts systems, transgenerational trauma recovery, birth psychology and transpersonal realms. Professional Supervision, Training and Consultancy available.
020 8138 0462 View 020 8138 0462
Photo of Randy Ulland, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Randy Ulland
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Serves Area
I am an integrative psychotherapist with a primary training in Psychosynthesis and secondary trainings in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Certified Practitioner), Internal Family Systems Psychotherapy (Levels 1-2) and EMDR (Levels 1-3). Drawing on the body, long history with Buddhist psychology and meditation practice, and over 12 years experience working with complex trauma in therapeutic communities in the NHS and the prison system, I work to help people reframe mental health difficulties as psychospiritual opportunities to deepen our relationships and maximise our potential.
I am an integrative psychotherapist with a primary training in Psychosynthesis and secondary trainings in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Certified Practitioner), Internal Family Systems Psychotherapy (Levels 1-2) and EMDR (Levels 1-3). Drawing on the body, long history with Buddhist psychology and meditation practice, and over 12 years experience working with complex trauma in therapeutic communities in the NHS and the prison system, I work to help people reframe mental health difficulties as psychospiritual opportunities to deepen our relationships and maximise our potential.
01865 951783 View 01865 951783

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Iulian Chear, Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Dr Iulian Chear
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Online Only
As an LGBTQAI+ individual, do you feel that you can’t find your own place, or are you unhappy with where you are in your life? Maybe you are feeling misunderstood, unable to connect with others, or simply struggling with the dating scene or the community? Sometimes having a gender/sexual identity comes with pressures to conform to a specific body image, to femininity/masculinity ideals, and with certain sexual expectations that don’t mirror your own preferences or needs (eg., one must be kinky, but not too kinky). Or perhaps there’s something important about yourself that has been lost?
As an LGBTQAI+ individual, do you feel that you can’t find your own place, or are you unhappy with where you are in your life? Maybe you are feeling misunderstood, unable to connect with others, or simply struggling with the dating scene or the community? Sometimes having a gender/sexual identity comes with pressures to conform to a specific body image, to femininity/masculinity ideals, and with certain sexual expectations that don’t mirror your own preferences or needs (eg., one must be kinky, but not too kinky). Or perhaps there’s something important about yourself that has been lost?
0117 463 7137 View 0117 463 7137
Photo of Sarah Jane Plant, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Sarah Jane Plant
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
There are times in life when we need help. When we feel overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, sad. Situations we are unable to make sense of. I offer an initial free consultation. This gives you the opportunity to find out about the therapy I offer. Research suggests that the therapeutic relationship itself is more important for a good out come than a particular type of therapy. This means that I am going to help you feel safe, accepted and treated with respect and perhaps challenge you in a positive and constructive way, then you are more likely to make good use of our sessions.
There are times in life when we need help. When we feel overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, sad. Situations we are unable to make sense of. I offer an initial free consultation. This gives you the opportunity to find out about the therapy I offer. Research suggests that the therapeutic relationship itself is more important for a good out come than a particular type of therapy. This means that I am going to help you feel safe, accepted and treated with respect and perhaps challenge you in a positive and constructive way, then you are more likely to make good use of our sessions.
View
Photo of Meghan Macer, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Meghan Macer
Psychotherapist, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I aim to create a space where clients feel genuinely seen, heard, and accepted as they are, offering a space grounded in empathy, authenticity, and non-judgment, where individuals are supported in exploring their inner world at their own pace. Valuing the uniqueness of each person and honouring the capacity for growth and self-awareness, I'm deeply committed to supporting gender diversity. I have experience working with neurodivergent clients and those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, relationship difficulties, and issues related to substance use.
I aim to create a space where clients feel genuinely seen, heard, and accepted as they are, offering a space grounded in empathy, authenticity, and non-judgment, where individuals are supported in exploring their inner world at their own pace. Valuing the uniqueness of each person and honouring the capacity for growth and self-awareness, I'm deeply committed to supporting gender diversity. I have experience working with neurodivergent clients and those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, relationship difficulties, and issues related to substance use.
01926 357037 View 01926 357037
Photo of Dr Donna Bella Gurney, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Donna Bella Gurney
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Are you battling an eating disorder or caught in a cycle of never feeling good enough? Are you constantly self-doubting or procastinating? Is anxiety holding you back from the life you want to live? Maybe you’re overwhelmed, burnt out, or stuck in perfectionism — driven by impossible standards and harsh self-criticism. Perhaps your relationships are suffering, and you don’t know why. You don’t have to face this alone. I created "Tutum Psychology" from the Latin word 'tutum', meaning 'safe'—to offer exactly that: a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore, heal, and grow. Let’s work together to create that space for you.
Are you battling an eating disorder or caught in a cycle of never feeling good enough? Are you constantly self-doubting or procastinating? Is anxiety holding you back from the life you want to live? Maybe you’re overwhelmed, burnt out, or stuck in perfectionism — driven by impossible standards and harsh self-criticism. Perhaps your relationships are suffering, and you don’t know why. You don’t have to face this alone. I created "Tutum Psychology" from the Latin word 'tutum', meaning 'safe'—to offer exactly that: a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore, heal, and grow. Let’s work together to create that space for you.
01628 969426 View 01628 969426
Photo of Tara Murphy, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Tara Murphy
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Online Only
Gender, Sexuality, Relationships. Whatever your journey, I am here to walk alongside you with empathy, expertise, and unwavering support. A space where you can meet your needs, goals, challenges and have the life you want to live. Therapy sessions are tailored to meet your unique needs and experiences, providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore, heal, and grow. My mission is to empower individuals and professionals alike through therapy and education that celebrates unique identities, belonging and experiences; whilst also working through aspects of their lives they may be holding them back.
Gender, Sexuality, Relationships. Whatever your journey, I am here to walk alongside you with empathy, expertise, and unwavering support. A space where you can meet your needs, goals, challenges and have the life you want to live. Therapy sessions are tailored to meet your unique needs and experiences, providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore, heal, and grow. My mission is to empower individuals and professionals alike through therapy and education that celebrates unique identities, belonging and experiences; whilst also working through aspects of their lives they may be holding them back.
View
Photo of Mark Anderson, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Mark Anderson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
I am a psychodynamic psychotherapist (BACP) and psychodynamic counsellor (BPC), qualified to Master of Science level (Birkbeck, University of London). Having worked in a London-based GP practice on a pro bono basis for several years, I have helped patients from many backgrounds, nationalities, ethnicities, religions, genders, and sexual orientations with the internal, and often, unconscious conflicts that have negatively impacted their emotional and mental well-being and that prevented them from living their everyday life to the fullest.
I am a psychodynamic psychotherapist (BACP) and psychodynamic counsellor (BPC), qualified to Master of Science level (Birkbeck, University of London). Having worked in a London-based GP practice on a pro bono basis for several years, I have helped patients from many backgrounds, nationalities, ethnicities, religions, genders, and sexual orientations with the internal, and often, unconscious conflicts that have negatively impacted their emotional and mental well-being and that prevented them from living their everyday life to the fullest.
01494 977455 View 01494 977455
Photo of Chryso Johnstone, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Chryso Johnstone
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Aylesbury HP20
Hi, I'm Chris, I'm a bit of a nerd who is into books, gaming, movies and TV shows. Being a therapist isn't just my job, it's something I genuinely love doing because I am hugely curious about people. I realised I had a true interest in people while I traveled and met people from different walks of life, cultures and spiritualities. I spend a lot of my time trying to learn and understand things, whether it's a new game, philosophical concept or how something works. In my role as a therapist I'm getting to know and understand you so that we can figure out how best to support you through what it is you are experiencing.
Hi, I'm Chris, I'm a bit of a nerd who is into books, gaming, movies and TV shows. Being a therapist isn't just my job, it's something I genuinely love doing because I am hugely curious about people. I realised I had a true interest in people while I traveled and met people from different walks of life, cultures and spiritualities. I spend a lot of my time trying to learn and understand things, whether it's a new game, philosophical concept or how something works. In my role as a therapist I'm getting to know and understand you so that we can figure out how best to support you through what it is you are experiencing.
01296 929229 View 01296 929229
Photo of Jack Wilkin, Counsellor, MBACP
Jack Wilkin
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Oxford OX3
Neurodivergent individuals are more likely to experience mental health difficulties, yet often find themselves feeling misunderstood by professionals. Drawing on my personal and professional background, I offer affirming and inclusive therapy both online and face-to-face in Headington and Summertown. I work primarily with autistic and ADHD clients experiencing a wide range of issues, including trauma, relationship difficulties, anxiety, low mood, procrastination, perfectionism, disordered eating, and difficulties regulating emotions. I also support those who may be at the early stages of exploring their identity.
Neurodivergent individuals are more likely to experience mental health difficulties, yet often find themselves feeling misunderstood by professionals. Drawing on my personal and professional background, I offer affirming and inclusive therapy both online and face-to-face in Headington and Summertown. I work primarily with autistic and ADHD clients experiencing a wide range of issues, including trauma, relationship difficulties, anxiety, low mood, procrastination, perfectionism, disordered eating, and difficulties regulating emotions. I also support those who may be at the early stages of exploring their identity.
01865 638627 View 01865 638627
Photo of Carole Carter, Psychologist, MRes, GMBPsS
Carole Carter
Psychologist, MRes, GMBPsS
The people I work with face a number of the following: being burntout, feeling like they’re buried by the demands of life and lost the spark for life, struggling with stress, unsure about their identity, feeling like they don’t know themselves, wrestling with self critical thoughts and a lack of self acceptance, dealing with gender dysphoria, unsure about coming out to people, facing some tough reactions from others, wanting some support in adopting a new relationship structure or philosophy towards relationships, struggling with insecurities, experiencing difficult emotions like jealousy, anger and resentment.
I offer an accepting space for LGBTQIA+, polyamorous, ethically non-monogamous (ENM) and kinky people that's grounded in knowledge of these different communities and the unique experiences they face. This is from a combination of lived experience and learning from other people. You set the destination and I will guide/support you on the journey.
The people I work with face a number of the following: being burntout, feeling like they’re buried by the demands of life and lost the spark for life, struggling with stress, unsure about their identity, feeling like they don’t know themselves, wrestling with self critical thoughts and a lack of self acceptance, dealing with gender dysphoria, unsure about coming out to people, facing some tough reactions from others, wanting some support in adopting a new relationship structure or philosophy towards relationships, struggling with insecurities, experiencing difficult emotions like jealousy, anger and resentment.
I offer an accepting space for LGBTQIA+, polyamorous, ethically non-monogamous (ENM) and kinky people that's grounded in knowledge of these different communities and the unique experiences they face. This is from a combination of lived experience and learning from other people. You set the destination and I will guide/support you on the journey.
01628 965491 View 01628 965491
Photo of Kit Winter, Counsellor, MBACP
Kit Winter
Counsellor, MBACP
Oxford OX1
Are you feeling trapped in patterns of behaviour that made sense in the past but hold you back now? Perhaps you're constantly reliving traumatic experiences in your mind or body, or feeling shame, self-criticism, anger or anxiety that you can't seem to change. Together we'll notice the feelings, beliefs, sensations and memories that show up for you in each moment, and find ways you can respond to these feelings that leave you feeling calm, self-compassionate and more resolved. If talking hasn't changed the difficulties you're experiencing, or your body feels stuck in past experiences, this way of working might be a good fit for you.
Are you feeling trapped in patterns of behaviour that made sense in the past but hold you back now? Perhaps you're constantly reliving traumatic experiences in your mind or body, or feeling shame, self-criticism, anger or anxiety that you can't seem to change. Together we'll notice the feelings, beliefs, sensations and memories that show up for you in each moment, and find ways you can respond to these feelings that leave you feeling calm, self-compassionate and more resolved. If talking hasn't changed the difficulties you're experiencing, or your body feels stuck in past experiences, this way of working might be a good fit for you.
View
Photo of Shaheen Walker, Counsellor, MBACP
Shaheen Walker
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Hi - are you feeling stuck? Repeating the same patterns of behaviour again and again in your life or relationship and going around in circles? Do you feel a lack of love/respect from your partner or someone close to you? Is sex/intimacy or compulsive sexual behaviour an issue? Perhaps trauma, life changes, neurodiversity (adhd/asc) or difficult times have led to anxiety/depression, the trust has gone, or you're feeling sad, angry, lonely, numb, or not sure what you feel anymore? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space supporting individuals, couples, neurodiverse and enm relationships gain confidence to change and improve wellbeing.
Hi - are you feeling stuck? Repeating the same patterns of behaviour again and again in your life or relationship and going around in circles? Do you feel a lack of love/respect from your partner or someone close to you? Is sex/intimacy or compulsive sexual behaviour an issue? Perhaps trauma, life changes, neurodiversity (adhd/asc) or difficult times have led to anxiety/depression, the trust has gone, or you're feeling sad, angry, lonely, numb, or not sure what you feel anymore? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space supporting individuals, couples, neurodiverse and enm relationships gain confidence to change and improve wellbeing.
01895 545137 View 01895 545137
Photo of Fiona de Swardt, Psychotherapist, BACP
Fiona de Swardt
Psychotherapist, BACP
Serves Area
I understand that considering to approach someone to discuss private and intimate matters is not easy, but this can be life changing. Experiencing emotional difficulties that affect your moods and behaviour are more common than you think. This can significantly impact a wide range of aspects in your day-to-day life and relationships. Therapy is often an effective way to reach a better understanding of yourself and the causes of your emotional discomfort. It may also help you to find the best way forward to overcome challenges and move on to experience meaningful life improvements simultaneously alleviating pressures and stress.
I understand that considering to approach someone to discuss private and intimate matters is not easy, but this can be life changing. Experiencing emotional difficulties that affect your moods and behaviour are more common than you think. This can significantly impact a wide range of aspects in your day-to-day life and relationships. Therapy is often an effective way to reach a better understanding of yourself and the causes of your emotional discomfort. It may also help you to find the best way forward to overcome challenges and move on to experience meaningful life improvements simultaneously alleviating pressures and stress.
01926 351762 View 01926 351762
Photo of Lauren Hale, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Lauren Hale
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi I’m Lauren, here to offer genuine warmth, kindness, and compassion as we explore the reasons that brought you to therapy. With My non-judgmental approach you’ll be truly heard and valued as we work collaboratively to navigate your world, find coping strategies, and cultivate self-awareness.
Hi I’m Lauren, here to offer genuine warmth, kindness, and compassion as we explore the reasons that brought you to therapy. With My non-judgmental approach you’ll be truly heard and valued as we work collaboratively to navigate your world, find coping strategies, and cultivate self-awareness.
01296 935688 View 01296 935688
Transgender Counsellors

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognise a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognise a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.