LGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling in Ashbourne

Tide and Peak Therapy
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Sometimes life is hard. Not because anything's gone "wrong," but because being human is complicated. Maybe you're dealing with anxiety, a difficult relationship, low mood, or just a sense that something isn't quite right. Whatever's brought you here, I'm glad you're exploring what support might look like. The first step is often the hardest, so I offer a free 15-minute phone call where we can have an informal chat and see if we might work well together. No pressure, no expectations - just a conversation to see if therapy feels right for you.
Sometimes life is hard. Not because anything's gone "wrong," but because being human is complicated. Maybe you're dealing with anxiety, a difficult relationship, low mood, or just a sense that something isn't quite right. Whatever's brought you here, I'm glad you're exploring what support might look like. The first step is often the hardest, so I offer a free 15-minute phone call where we can have an informal chat and see if we might work well together. No pressure, no expectations - just a conversation to see if therapy feels right for you.
01283 387637 View 01283 387637
Photo of Nicola Lisa Griffiths, Psychotherapist
Nicola Lisa Griffiths
Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
You may feel stuck in patterns that keep repeating in your relationships, whether that’s people-pleasing, overthinking, or the same conflicts playing out again and again. Relationships can feel confusing, painful, or distant, leaving you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or not quite “enough.” I work with individuals and couples to understand and break free from these patterns, helping you feel more secure, respond differently, and build more connected, fulfilling relationships.
You may feel stuck in patterns that keep repeating in your relationships, whether that’s people-pleasing, overthinking, or the same conflicts playing out again and again. Relationships can feel confusing, painful, or distant, leaving you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or not quite “enough.” I work with individuals and couples to understand and break free from these patterns, helping you feel more secure, respond differently, and build more connected, fulfilling relationships.
07989 419337 View 07989 419337
Photo of Linda Mafuta, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Linda Mafuta
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Linda Mafuta and I am an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist. I have experience of working in the mental health services for over 17 years and I have been working for the NHS over the last 10 years as a Counsellor. I work with Individual adults as well as Couples. Sometimes we may feel alone, overwhelmed or just struggle to discuss what is going in our lives with our family, friends or loved ones. Whether you come to therapy as an individual or a couple.
My name is Linda Mafuta and I am an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist. I have experience of working in the mental health services for over 17 years and I have been working for the NHS over the last 10 years as a Counsellor. I work with Individual adults as well as Couples. Sometimes we may feel alone, overwhelmed or just struggle to discuss what is going in our lives with our family, friends or loved ones. Whether you come to therapy as an individual or a couple.
01305 235772 View 01305 235772
Photo of Emily Jones, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Emily Jones
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an experienced psychotherapeutic counsellor working with children and teenagers, from differing ages and levels of understanding, using creative interventions like art and play. Topics and concerns that have been explored include self esteem, worries, anxiety, low mood, self harm, and identity, amongst others.
I am an experienced psychotherapeutic counsellor working with children and teenagers, from differing ages and levels of understanding, using creative interventions like art and play. Topics and concerns that have been explored include self esteem, worries, anxiety, low mood, self harm, and identity, amongst others.
01283 387973 View 01283 387973
Photo of Caroline Fearns, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Caroline Fearns
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
My name is Caroline, I am a Person Centred Psychotherapist and founder of Heart Centred Therapy for Women. I guide women back into connection with the heart of who they are so that they can form compassionate relationships with themselves, overcome challenges, and create lives that light them up. With 10 years experience supporting clients, I specialise in holding space for women who are: navigating periods of change, struggling with self esteem & confidence, finding purpose, grief, loss & anxiety. I am a trained birth and abortion doula & am passionate about supporting women with issues relating to pregnancy & all its outcomes.
My name is Caroline, I am a Person Centred Psychotherapist and founder of Heart Centred Therapy for Women. I guide women back into connection with the heart of who they are so that they can form compassionate relationships with themselves, overcome challenges, and create lives that light them up. With 10 years experience supporting clients, I specialise in holding space for women who are: navigating periods of change, struggling with self esteem & confidence, finding purpose, grief, loss & anxiety. I am a trained birth and abortion doula & am passionate about supporting women with issues relating to pregnancy & all its outcomes.
01283 368292 View 01283 368292
Photo of Bobby Bradstock, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Bobby Bradstock
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
How do you prioritise self care when it doesn’t even make it onto the list most days? How do you retain your relationships and emotional connections with the people you love, when you can’t bring yourself to answer the phone for millionth time that day? I’m not a business coach. I’m a Psychotherapist in business, who has done the 4 years of weekly therapy, returns to therapy when I need to screw my head back on, in a world that continues to be organised chaos. People like us don’t go to therapy because we just don’t have the time. So flexibility, patience and straight talking therapists, like me, are necessary, for people like us.
How do you prioritise self care when it doesn’t even make it onto the list most days? How do you retain your relationships and emotional connections with the people you love, when you can’t bring yourself to answer the phone for millionth time that day? I’m not a business coach. I’m a Psychotherapist in business, who has done the 4 years of weekly therapy, returns to therapy when I need to screw my head back on, in a world that continues to be organised chaos. People like us don’t go to therapy because we just don’t have the time. So flexibility, patience and straight talking therapists, like me, are necessary, for people like us.
0121 312 9934 View 0121 312 9934
Photo of Louise Bellamy, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Louise Bellamy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Louise, I offer Therapy and Coaching to adults on a short or long-term basis. I can work with you either in-person from my home in Allestree (Derby), online, or outdoors in a 'Walk and Talk' format. I'm experienced in working with clients facing a wide range of problems, and particularly with those suffering from eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, and difficulties in relating to other people. In addition to working privately, I have 10 years' experience of working with First Steps Derbyshire, providing counselling to clients with eating disorders.
Hi, I'm Louise, I offer Therapy and Coaching to adults on a short or long-term basis. I can work with you either in-person from my home in Allestree (Derby), online, or outdoors in a 'Walk and Talk' format. I'm experienced in working with clients facing a wide range of problems, and particularly with those suffering from eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, and difficulties in relating to other people. In addition to working privately, I have 10 years' experience of working with First Steps Derbyshire, providing counselling to clients with eating disorders.
01332 327428 View 01332 327428
Photo of Marta Perestrello, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Marta Perestrello
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an experienced and highly qualified art psychotherapist. I offer in person and online psychotherapy, clinical supervision, parent and professional consultation. I work with young people and adults in person from Derby or online from where ever you live, work or travel to. Contact me to arrange a free Introductory Meeting to talk through your needs and agree on the best plan forward before committing to any work.
I am an experienced and highly qualified art psychotherapist. I offer in person and online psychotherapy, clinical supervision, parent and professional consultation. I work with young people and adults in person from Derby or online from where ever you live, work or travel to. Contact me to arrange a free Introductory Meeting to talk through your needs and agree on the best plan forward before committing to any work.
07480 485905 View 07480 485905

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa Howarth - Lisa Howarth Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Lisa Howarth Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Warm and down-to-earth, I offer a compassionate, collaborative space to explore your feelings and needs. Together, we can make sense of patterns, protective strategies and how earlier experiences may shape the present. Perhaps you find yourself feeling stuck, ashamed, avoiding closeness, or struggling with conflict or anxiety? You may be experiencing life changes such as separation, menopause or loss (including dementia), difficulties in relationships, the impact of sexual harm, or sexual difficulties. I work with adults of all genders, sexualities and relationship styles.
Warm and down-to-earth, I offer a compassionate, collaborative space to explore your feelings and needs. Together, we can make sense of patterns, protective strategies and how earlier experiences may shape the present. Perhaps you find yourself feeling stuck, ashamed, avoiding closeness, or struggling with conflict or anxiety? You may be experiencing life changes such as separation, menopause or loss (including dementia), difficulties in relationships, the impact of sexual harm, or sexual difficulties. I work with adults of all genders, sexualities and relationship styles.
0161 524 5095 View 0161 524 5095
Photo of Rebecca Fox, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Rebecca Fox
Psychotherapist, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
It feels like a really hard time to be queer and/or trans at the moment, I'm here to hold you and have understanding and experience.
My lived experience as a queer, non-monogamous person lends itself to a deeper understanding and empathy of the experiences of queer ( LGBTQ+) and non-monogamous (inc. polyamorous) people. Maybe you wish to explore your gender identity, how you’re perceived in the world or explore different relationship styles. I am also kink-aware and sex positive.
It feels like a really hard time to be queer and/or trans at the moment, I'm here to hold you and have understanding and experience.
My lived experience as a queer, non-monogamous person lends itself to a deeper understanding and empathy of the experiences of queer ( LGBTQ+) and non-monogamous (inc. polyamorous) people. Maybe you wish to explore your gender identity, how you’re perceived in the world or explore different relationship styles. I am also kink-aware and sex positive.
0161 524 6947 View 0161 524 6947
Photo of Kate Greenwood, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Kate Greenwood
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
As a gay woman, I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and I am passionate about supporting people from the community.
I am passionate about offering individualised CBT, using a combination of traditional CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). We work together in the sessions to focus on what you would like to change and the goals you want to achieve. I also have further training in adapted CBT to support people who are or believe.
As a gay woman, I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and I am passionate about supporting people from the community.
I am passionate about offering individualised CBT, using a combination of traditional CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). We work together in the sessions to focus on what you would like to change and the goals you want to achieve. I also have further training in adapted CBT to support people who are or believe.
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Photo of Vicky Richardson - Bread and Roses Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Bread and Roses Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with the queer community for over 10 years.
I often collaborate with people who define as highly sensitive, neurodivergent or alternative in some way. You may think, feel and experience the world differently and that can come with huge ups and downs. Perhaps you look around and wonder how everyone else seems to be holding it together when you feel and think so deeply. Perhaps you get stuck in patterns of thinking and behaving that no longer help. I get it - life is often messy, unpredictable, and confusing, and at times it can feel like the cliff of overwhelm and burnout looms large. Curious about change in your life, work and relationships? Then lets connect!
I have worked with the queer community for over 10 years.
I often collaborate with people who define as highly sensitive, neurodivergent or alternative in some way. You may think, feel and experience the world differently and that can come with huge ups and downs. Perhaps you look around and wonder how everyone else seems to be holding it together when you feel and think so deeply. Perhaps you get stuck in patterns of thinking and behaving that no longer help. I get it - life is often messy, unpredictable, and confusing, and at times it can feel like the cliff of overwhelm and burnout looms large. Curious about change in your life, work and relationships? Then lets connect!
07401 270437 View 07401 270437
Photo of Dr Karen Adler, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Dr Karen Adler
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Online Only
I am very happy to work with clients who identify as LGBTQ+.
Sometimes the challenges that we face can become too much. But where to start when trying to find a therapist? I'm here to help you change so that your sadness or anxiety dwindles and you can live your life more in the ways that feel right deep down. Together we will gently explore what's gone wrong, or dissatisfies you, and begin to mend, so that you can feel more whole. I believe that we can be damaged by the expectations of the world around us as well as by our earliest and most intimate relationships. Do get in touch at karenadlertherapy.com and let's together find the roots and routes to make the changes you desire.
I am very happy to work with clients who identify as LGBTQ+.
Sometimes the challenges that we face can become too much. But where to start when trying to find a therapist? I'm here to help you change so that your sadness or anxiety dwindles and you can live your life more in the ways that feel right deep down. Together we will gently explore what's gone wrong, or dissatisfies you, and begin to mend, so that you can feel more whole. I believe that we can be damaged by the expectations of the world around us as well as by our earliest and most intimate relationships. Do get in touch at karenadlertherapy.com and let's together find the roots and routes to make the changes you desire.
0115 824 3976 View 0115 824 3976
Photo of Debbie Coxon - Debbie Coxon Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Debbie Coxon Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Derby DE21
You may seek therapeutic support for many reasons especially when life throws you a curved ball. Bereavement or loss, trauma, anxiety and depression can all affect us in different ways. When negative thought patterns, behaviours and emotions become too intense it can affect daily life and impact relationships. I offer emotional support that is impartial and non-judgmental, together we will explore the context for your worries by identifying the underlying causes and make real progress towards your goals in a sensitive way. My name is Debbie and I am a fully qualified, insured Integrative Psychotherapist.
You may seek therapeutic support for many reasons especially when life throws you a curved ball. Bereavement or loss, trauma, anxiety and depression can all affect us in different ways. When negative thought patterns, behaviours and emotions become too intense it can affect daily life and impact relationships. I offer emotional support that is impartial and non-judgmental, together we will explore the context for your worries by identifying the underlying causes and make real progress towards your goals in a sensitive way. My name is Debbie and I am a fully qualified, insured Integrative Psychotherapist.
01332 410894 View 01332 410894
Photo of Simi K Sihota, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Simi K Sihota
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings safely. Together, we'll work towards understanding your experiences and finding paths towards healing and growth. I specialise in supporting individuals dealing with: - Anxiety and Depression including low self-esteem - Childhood trauma - Relationship difficulties, boundaries and challenging family dynamics - Grief and Loss - Identity, belonging and cultural barriers - Trauma and abuse - Relational issues such as attachment - Relationship breakdowns - Sexual identity and issues regarding sex
I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings safely. Together, we'll work towards understanding your experiences and finding paths towards healing and growth. I specialise in supporting individuals dealing with: - Anxiety and Depression including low self-esteem - Childhood trauma - Relationship difficulties, boundaries and challenging family dynamics - Grief and Loss - Identity, belonging and cultural barriers - Trauma and abuse - Relational issues such as attachment - Relationship breakdowns - Sexual identity and issues regarding sex
01777 801637 View 01777 801637
Photo of Amanda Webster, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Amanda Webster
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Matlock DE4
Amanda has a natural connection with people and is working well with those with ASD and ADHD and has been working for 4 years with various levels of need - she was diagnosed 3 year, so gets it - Amanda works with the LGBTQAI+ community and specialises in helping those through the transition process. She is a fully trained hypnotherapist, who uses hypnosis if and when a client wants to try it - we have great success with combined therapies- Amanda also works with families to cope with family issues and couples who wish to solve marital issues if you wish to know more please feel free to look at my website (being updated at the mo)
Amanda has a natural connection with people and is working well with those with ASD and ADHD and has been working for 4 years with various levels of need - she was diagnosed 3 year, so gets it - Amanda works with the LGBTQAI+ community and specialises in helping those through the transition process. She is a fully trained hypnotherapist, who uses hypnosis if and when a client wants to try it - we have great success with combined therapies- Amanda also works with families to cope with family issues and couples who wish to solve marital issues if you wish to know more please feel free to look at my website (being updated at the mo)
020 3856 3533 View 020 3856 3533
Photo of Niko Karachaliou, Psychotherapist, MA
Niko Karachaliou
Psychotherapist, MA
As a queer therapist navigating neurodivergence and disability, I am committed to offering a compassionate, holding space where clients are met exactly where they are.
My therapeutic approach is integrative and experiential, grounded in social justice frameworks, anti-oppressive practices, existential and phenomenological theories, and attachment and developmental psychology. I also research and advocate for trauma-informed, sensory-informed, and culturally responsive embodied and relational practices.
As a queer therapist navigating neurodivergence and disability, I am committed to offering a compassionate, holding space where clients are met exactly where they are.
My therapeutic approach is integrative and experiential, grounded in social justice frameworks, anti-oppressive practices, existential and phenomenological theories, and attachment and developmental psychology. I also research and advocate for trauma-informed, sensory-informed, and culturally responsive embodied and relational practices.
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Photo of Ian Baker, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Ian Baker
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
My name's Ian ,working in the field of sexual addiction and compulsivity and psychosexual therapy for 15+years. My work also includes ;relational work, presenting on topics surrounding porn use, depression, boredom etc as well as porn induced sexual difficulties. I also supervise therapists in these specialist fields of work. There is never a one size fits all approach, always helping each individual/couple with how to overcome & recover from what is being presented. I love this job and the niches I work within and take professional pride to stay updated with advances in research and training to ensure i am able to help
My name's Ian ,working in the field of sexual addiction and compulsivity and psychosexual therapy for 15+years. My work also includes ;relational work, presenting on topics surrounding porn use, depression, boredom etc as well as porn induced sexual difficulties. I also supervise therapists in these specialist fields of work. There is never a one size fits all approach, always helping each individual/couple with how to overcome & recover from what is being presented. I love this job and the niches I work within and take professional pride to stay updated with advances in research and training to ensure i am able to help
0114 697 6288 View 0114 697 6288
Photo of Dr Donna Bella Gurney, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Donna Bella Gurney
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I work with adolescents and adults struggling with eating disorders, emetophobia (fear of vomiting), and trauma, often feeling stuck in anxiety, avoidance, or cycles that haven’t shifted despite previous therapy. Many come to me overwhelmed by food, fear, or the impact of past experiences and want more than short-term coping. With 20 years’ experience in mental health and specialist post-qualification training, I provide tailored, evidence-based therapy (CBT, ACT, ERP, EMDR) to target underlying patterns and help you move forward with greater confidence, flexibility, and lasting change.
I work with adolescents and adults struggling with eating disorders, emetophobia (fear of vomiting), and trauma, often feeling stuck in anxiety, avoidance, or cycles that haven’t shifted despite previous therapy. Many come to me overwhelmed by food, fear, or the impact of past experiences and want more than short-term coping. With 20 years’ experience in mental health and specialist post-qualification training, I provide tailored, evidence-based therapy (CBT, ACT, ERP, EMDR) to target underlying patterns and help you move forward with greater confidence, flexibility, and lasting change.
01628 969426 View 01628 969426
Photo of Rich Goodson, Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Rich Goodson
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Belper DE56
Sometimes we need to talk. Or unload. Or work out what needs to change. Sometimes we need to do this with someone who's NOT family or a friend or colleague - someone who can listen deeply and confidentially, with fresh ears - with no bias or judgement. Someone who's steady, accepting and unshockable. What does counselling with me look like? Well, there's no one-size-fits-all. I will tailor it to your needs, session by session. You may have clear objectives, or none at all. It's all ok. We can work it out. I'll certainly want to get to know YOU as a human being, not just the 'issue' you're bringing.
Sometimes we need to talk. Or unload. Or work out what needs to change. Sometimes we need to do this with someone who's NOT family or a friend or colleague - someone who can listen deeply and confidentially, with fresh ears - with no bias or judgement. Someone who's steady, accepting and unshockable. What does counselling with me look like? Well, there's no one-size-fits-all. I will tailor it to your needs, session by session. You may have clear objectives, or none at all. It's all ok. We can work it out. I'll certainly want to get to know YOU as a human being, not just the 'issue' you're bringing.
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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.