Lesbian Counselling in Bedford

Blue Room Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Bedford MK42
Are you feeling sad, lost, or overwhelmed? You might be facing relationship issues, a traumatic experience, or simply feel low without knowing why. It’s not always easy to carry these feelings alone. You may be looking for a space where you can talk openly and honestly, without judgment. My own experience of being in therapy showed me the power of feeling truly heard and accepted. That experience deeply informs how I work—with empathy, authenticity, and a commitment to creating a safe, respectful space.
Are you feeling sad, lost, or overwhelmed? You might be facing relationship issues, a traumatic experience, or simply feel low without knowing why. It’s not always easy to carry these feelings alone. You may be looking for a space where you can talk openly and honestly, without judgment. My own experience of being in therapy showed me the power of feeling truly heard and accepted. That experience deeply informs how I work—with empathy, authenticity, and a commitment to creating a safe, respectful space.
01234 607476 View 01234 607476
Natalie Bailey
Counsellor, MBACP
Bedford MK45
Do you feel like pain from your past is holding you back? distorting or determining your present? Do you feel like you have a lot of emotions but your not really sure why? or how to manage them? Are you struggling to maintain relationships? pursue your goals? do you feel stuck? disconnected? depressed? lost? Whatever it is you have going on- I want to support you. Sometimes facing the truth of your experience can feel scary, i want to create a space where you feel safe and less alone in that.
Do you feel like pain from your past is holding you back? distorting or determining your present? Do you feel like you have a lot of emotions but your not really sure why? or how to manage them? Are you struggling to maintain relationships? pursue your goals? do you feel stuck? disconnected? depressed? lost? Whatever it is you have going on- I want to support you. Sometimes facing the truth of your experience can feel scary, i want to create a space where you feel safe and less alone in that.
01234 860969 View 01234 860969
Anna Hayward
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
Being autistic and ADHD myself I know how difficult it is to find a counsellor who 'gets' you. My decades of lived-experience, as well as formal training can help you understand yourself and your neurodivergence, without needing to mask or hide your struggles. I can help you rebuild your self-esteem, grow in self-acceptance and even improve your confidence with socialising and dealing with people. By helping you understand your neurodivergence, I can help you figure out what works for you, reducing your anxiety, social difficulties, meltdowns and burnout.
Being autistic and ADHD myself I know how difficult it is to find a counsellor who 'gets' you. My decades of lived-experience, as well as formal training can help you understand yourself and your neurodivergence, without needing to mask or hide your struggles. I can help you rebuild your self-esteem, grow in self-acceptance and even improve your confidence with socialising and dealing with people. By helping you understand your neurodivergence, I can help you figure out what works for you, reducing your anxiety, social difficulties, meltdowns and burnout.
01480 271036 View 01480 271036
Peggy Bishop
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
Hello! My name is Peggy. I am a dedicated, passionate, and highly qualified integrative counsellor who specializes in children and young people. I am passionate about helping individuals to be able to help themselves. I have a specialist interest in working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I have a deep understanding of the issues and problems that the LGBTQIA+ community is affected by. I want to help give a voice to those in the community, a chance to be heard and to know that they have a safe place where they can do so.
Hello! My name is Peggy. I am a dedicated, passionate, and highly qualified integrative counsellor who specializes in children and young people. I am passionate about helping individuals to be able to help themselves. I have a specialist interest in working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I have a deep understanding of the issues and problems that the LGBTQIA+ community is affected by. I want to help give a voice to those in the community, a chance to be heard and to know that they have a safe place where they can do so.
01933 422527 View 01933 422527
Dr Livia M Pontes
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Clinical Psychologist & Neuropsychologist with over 20 years’ experience, specialising in women’s mental health, particularly during the menopause transition, pregnancy, and postnatal period. I work with women who often feel overwhelmed, invisible, or disconnected from themselves after years of holding everything together for others. My approach is integrative and grounded in neuroscience & evidence-based approaches, including CBT, ACT and CFT. I work holistically, considering the emotional, biological, social and cultural factors that shape mental health, and tailor therapy to each person’s needs and goals.
I am a Clinical Psychologist & Neuropsychologist with over 20 years’ experience, specialising in women’s mental health, particularly during the menopause transition, pregnancy, and postnatal period. I work with women who often feel overwhelmed, invisible, or disconnected from themselves after years of holding everything together for others. My approach is integrative and grounded in neuroscience & evidence-based approaches, including CBT, ACT and CFT. I work holistically, considering the emotional, biological, social and cultural factors that shape mental health, and tailor therapy to each person’s needs and goals.
01908 015440 View 01908 015440
We are a team of qualified accredited Psychotherapists and Counsellors. We have 25 years experience of counselling children, young people and families, having worked in a variety of settings including schools, colleges and CAHMS, delivering therapeutic work with children . We are qualified practitioners in delivering a range of therapeutic interventions such as Play therapy, DDP, VIG, Trauma focused CBT and EMDR therapy. We are experienced in working with children and young people aged 4 years to 30 years old. We have therapy dogs and pigs to support children with managing their anxieties and to help calm them during sessions.
We are a team of qualified accredited Psychotherapists and Counsellors. We have 25 years experience of counselling children, young people and families, having worked in a variety of settings including schools, colleges and CAHMS, delivering therapeutic work with children . We are qualified practitioners in delivering a range of therapeutic interventions such as Play therapy, DDP, VIG, Trauma focused CBT and EMDR therapy. We are experienced in working with children and young people aged 4 years to 30 years old. We have therapy dogs and pigs to support children with managing their anxieties and to help calm them during sessions.
01234 608775 View 01234 608775
Yvonne Walker
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Bedford MK40
I am an experienced, BACP registered psychodynamic psychotherapist working with adults in Bedford and Milton Keynes and online. I help individuals explore unconscious thoughts, processes and feelings to work towards a greater understanding of themselves and their lives. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, stress, codependency and relationship issues. Therapy provides a safe and confidential space to explore difficult emotions and feelings, resulting from past experiences or traumas.
I am an experienced, BACP registered psychodynamic psychotherapist working with adults in Bedford and Milton Keynes and online. I help individuals explore unconscious thoughts, processes and feelings to work towards a greater understanding of themselves and their lives. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, stress, codependency and relationship issues. Therapy provides a safe and confidential space to explore difficult emotions and feelings, resulting from past experiences or traumas.
01234 230198 View 01234 230198
Bedford Community Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Bedford MK40
At Bedford Community Counselling, we offer low cost counselling, clinical supervision to professionals & placements to student counsellors. Run by senior Psychotherapists & Directors, Katja Fischer & Jo Moloney, BCC is a not for profit organisation. Since first opening in 2012 we have developed a reputation for excellence. We provide a fast response to enquiries & have a team of therapists which means we can usually offer session times quickly. We are an experienced general practice, able to work with individuals, couples & groups on a wide variety of issues, and also offer specialist trauma and DIT relational therapies.
At Bedford Community Counselling, we offer low cost counselling, clinical supervision to professionals & placements to student counsellors. Run by senior Psychotherapists & Directors, Katja Fischer & Jo Moloney, BCC is a not for profit organisation. Since first opening in 2012 we have developed a reputation for excellence. We provide a fast response to enquiries & have a team of therapists which means we can usually offer session times quickly. We are an experienced general practice, able to work with individuals, couples & groups on a wide variety of issues, and also offer specialist trauma and DIT relational therapies.
01234 675721 View 01234 675721
Adriana Cracknell
Counsellor, MBACP
Bedford MK40
Welcome to my profile, I am a highly experienced Counsellor of 26 years, which accounts for my knowledge and intuition. Specialising in Sexual Abuse/Assault, Trauma/PTSD, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, LGBTQ+ & Young People - to reduce confusion, be heard and enable choice. I create a space where we connect as equals, and explore together at your pace. My belief is that therapy needs to be with someone you can feel comfortable and safe with. I look forward to hearing from you for a chat, to assess your needs and see how I can be of assistance to you.
Welcome to my profile, I am a highly experienced Counsellor of 26 years, which accounts for my knowledge and intuition. Specialising in Sexual Abuse/Assault, Trauma/PTSD, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, LGBTQ+ & Young People - to reduce confusion, be heard and enable choice. I create a space where we connect as equals, and explore together at your pace. My belief is that therapy needs to be with someone you can feel comfortable and safe with. I look forward to hearing from you for a chat, to assess your needs and see how I can be of assistance to you.
01234 395407 View 01234 395407
Sophie Ibbott Therapy
Psychotherapist, BACP
Bedford MK41
Thank you for visiting my page. My name is Sophie and I’m a Specialist Therapist in Bedford. I provide 1:1 sessions for Children, Young People, Adults and also Families.
Thank you for visiting my page. My name is Sophie and I’m a Specialist Therapist in Bedford. I provide 1:1 sessions for Children, Young People, Adults and also Families.
01234 864678 View 01234 864678
Dr Susan Jacques
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, CPsychol
1 Endorsed
Bedford MK41
We all confront struggles at some stage in our lives, and overcoming these can feel like a challenge. There may be challenges with our internal world, in our relationships, or we may experience a significant life event that means we start to feel ‘stuck’. This can lead to feeling a lack of self-confidence and to feelings of self-doubt. I understand that taking that first step to talk to someone can be difficult, and thus I create a safe space that encourages you to feel supported and heard. I believe in the importance of working alongside you as part of a journey to increased self-development and overall improved well-being.
We all confront struggles at some stage in our lives, and overcoming these can feel like a challenge. There may be challenges with our internal world, in our relationships, or we may experience a significant life event that means we start to feel ‘stuck’. This can lead to feeling a lack of self-confidence and to feelings of self-doubt. I understand that taking that first step to talk to someone can be difficult, and thus I create a safe space that encourages you to feel supported and heard. I believe in the importance of working alongside you as part of a journey to increased self-development and overall improved well-being.
01234 975934 View 01234 975934
Diane Margaret Barton-Bates
Counsellor, MBACP
Bedford MK42
You have made the first step by recognising that you need some help and for seeking this help now and that is a really positive decision, one that I know would have not been an easy one to make. Counselling is an effective tool to hep support with many difficult issues in your life and can help give a different point of view and think about things in a different way. Talking about your issues is good for your health and wellbeing.
You have made the first step by recognising that you need some help and for seeking this help now and that is a really positive decision, one that I know would have not been an easy one to make. Counselling is an effective tool to hep support with many difficult issues in your life and can help give a different point of view and think about things in a different way. Talking about your issues is good for your health and wellbeing.
020 4538 1635 View 020 4538 1635
Rhiannon Steed
Counsellor, MSc
Bedford MK40
I work with people navigating health, relationships, identity, and life transitions. I support those experiencing chronic illness, disability, neurodivergence, anxiety (health and OCD) and major life changes, as well as those exploring intimacy, sexuality, and relationship wellbeing. I work with all relationship styles, including ethical non-monogamy and kink. I also support ADHD, AuDHD and autism, including sensory, communication and emotional differences and the affects on daily life. Together, we build insight, strengths and practical strategies to improve your wellbeing and ease anxieties.
I work with people navigating health, relationships, identity, and life transitions. I support those experiencing chronic illness, disability, neurodivergence, anxiety (health and OCD) and major life changes, as well as those exploring intimacy, sexuality, and relationship wellbeing. I work with all relationship styles, including ethical non-monogamy and kink. I also support ADHD, AuDHD and autism, including sensory, communication and emotional differences and the affects on daily life. Together, we build insight, strengths and practical strategies to improve your wellbeing and ease anxieties.
01234 386453 View 01234 386453
Lovelocks Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Bedford MK42
Welcome :) I'm glad you're here! Maybe you or someone you love is feeling in need of some support. With 22 years experience, I want to reassure you, I'm versed in holding a safe space, putting you at ease so that you can feel able to talk & really make sense of things. I help you to better understand yourself & others, alchemise you pain & truly heal. Sessions are set up to meet your needs & your goals. Experienced & trained in ADHD/Autism. A Self Love Expert, also offering a 12 week (Self) Love Therapy program, covering Inner Child work & more, increasing your capacity in relationships/business. Speak soon, Jodi
Welcome :) I'm glad you're here! Maybe you or someone you love is feeling in need of some support. With 22 years experience, I want to reassure you, I'm versed in holding a safe space, putting you at ease so that you can feel able to talk & really make sense of things. I help you to better understand yourself & others, alchemise you pain & truly heal. Sessions are set up to meet your needs & your goals. Experienced & trained in ADHD/Autism. A Self Love Expert, also offering a 12 week (Self) Love Therapy program, covering Inner Child work & more, increasing your capacity in relationships/business. Speak soon, Jodi
01234 607484 View 01234 607484
Linda Harris
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have been working within the field of mental health for almost 30 years, predominantly within the NHS, and have a wealth of training and experience. I provide both long and short term counselling and psychotherapy for individuals and couples, and work to an exceptional standard of confidentiality. I work with a variety of problems and issues such as anxiety, depression, childhood trauma and relationship difficulties. However, if you'd like to discuss what is troubling you, you are very welcome to call or e-mail me before committing to making an appointment.
I have been working within the field of mental health for almost 30 years, predominantly within the NHS, and have a wealth of training and experience. I provide both long and short term counselling and psychotherapy for individuals and couples, and work to an exceptional standard of confidentiality. I work with a variety of problems and issues such as anxiety, depression, childhood trauma and relationship difficulties. However, if you'd like to discuss what is troubling you, you are very welcome to call or e-mail me before committing to making an appointment.
01933 426197 View 01933 426197
Sarah Free
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an Integrative Humanistic therapist who offers solo and couples counselling. I put the relationship between the therapist and the patient at the heart of the therapy, helping to create a space for you that feels safe to explore whatever you would like to work on at a pace that suits you.
I am an Integrative Humanistic therapist who offers solo and couples counselling. I put the relationship between the therapist and the patient at the heart of the therapy, helping to create a space for you that feels safe to explore whatever you would like to work on at a pace that suits you.
01529 400799 View 01529 400799
Nick Pandya
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
I believe that we all have an innate tendency towards health and wholeness. Every so often, life events and situations can get in the way of accessing our inner resources to achieve growth and healing. Psychotherapy can be a valuable tool to firmly place you back on the path to living a full life. When we are faced with major or recurring life stressors we can be overwhelmed and seeking additional support, such as therapy, is a natural and positive step in taking care of yourself.
I believe that we all have an innate tendency towards health and wholeness. Every so often, life events and situations can get in the way of accessing our inner resources to achieve growth and healing. Psychotherapy can be a valuable tool to firmly place you back on the path to living a full life. When we are faced with major or recurring life stressors we can be overwhelmed and seeking additional support, such as therapy, is a natural and positive step in taking care of yourself.
01908 082397 View 01908 082397
Barry James Carpenter
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
So, let's talk about you. Perhaps you've experienced a painful break up from a romantic relationship and are left hurt, confused, scared even and are feeling totally lost and unsure of how to move forward. Sometimes we just don't want to let go! The anxiety of it all can be through the roof and can really leave you questioning yourself and leave you feeling small with next to no self worth, destroying confidence. Perhaps you've experienced a painful break up from a romantic relationship and are left hurt, confused, scared even and are feeling totally lost and unsure of how to move forward. Sometimes we just don't want to let go!
So, let's talk about you. Perhaps you've experienced a painful break up from a romantic relationship and are left hurt, confused, scared even and are feeling totally lost and unsure of how to move forward. Sometimes we just don't want to let go! The anxiety of it all can be through the roof and can really leave you questioning yourself and leave you feeling small with next to no self worth, destroying confidence. Perhaps you've experienced a painful break up from a romantic relationship and are left hurt, confused, scared even and are feeling totally lost and unsure of how to move forward. Sometimes we just don't want to let go!
01234 419942 View 01234 419942
Mat Schencks
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Serves Area
I offer a caring and non-judgmental relationship in which you can explore the issues, experiences, thoughts and feelings that have brought you to seek help. We will explore the situations and challenges you are facing in your life. Speaking about what is difficult is the beginning of feeling better. Core Process Psychotherapy combines the wisdom and compassion of Buddhism with western approaches to psychology. This compassionate and relational approach emphasises our wholeness, and our inherent resilience and balance - however hidden these qualities may sometimes seem. I work with both individuals and couples.
I offer a caring and non-judgmental relationship in which you can explore the issues, experiences, thoughts and feelings that have brought you to seek help. We will explore the situations and challenges you are facing in your life. Speaking about what is difficult is the beginning of feeling better. Core Process Psychotherapy combines the wisdom and compassion of Buddhism with western approaches to psychology. This compassionate and relational approach emphasises our wholeness, and our inherent resilience and balance - however hidden these qualities may sometimes seem. I work with both individuals and couples.
01908 015946 View 01908 015946
The Paros Practice
Psychotherapist, MSc, MHGI
Serves Area
I am a practising Human Givens Psychotherapist, working in Woburn Sands (near Milton Keynes). Most of my clients come to me with a number of emotional issues relating to depression, addiction, anxiety or stress, trauma or phobia. All my clients are from a variety of ages and background. I work with couples as well as individuals. My track record in securing rapid and enduring change ensures that I provide the best possible service and outcomes for my clients.
I am a practising Human Givens Psychotherapist, working in Woburn Sands (near Milton Keynes). Most of my clients come to me with a number of emotional issues relating to depression, addiction, anxiety or stress, trauma or phobia. All my clients are from a variety of ages and background. I work with couples as well as individuals. My track record in securing rapid and enduring change ensures that I provide the best possible service and outcomes for my clients.
01908 015420 View 01908 015420

See more therapy options for Bedford

Lesbian Counsellors
What is lesbian-affirming therapy?
Lesbian-affirming therapy is a type of mental health support that fully affirms and reflects a client's lesbian identity. It is rooted in acceptance and does not attempt to change or question an individual's sexual orientation. In this type of therapy, clients work with a therapist who understands the unique experiences of lesbian women. This support is especially important, as research shows that lesbian individuals face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges compared to heterosexual populations. Lesbian-affirming therapy acknowledges that lesbian individuals may encounter specific stressors—such as coming out challenges, family rejection, workplace discrimination, and minority stress—that require specialised understanding and intervention. Lesbian-affirming therapists often work with clients across all age groups, from adolescents navigating their emerging identity to adults and older individuals addressing life transitions and relationship concerns. Many therapists also provide couples therapy for lesbian partners, helping them navigate relationship dynamics, communication challenges, or external stressors that may impact their relationship. It is important to note that therapists provide talk therapy and counseling services but do not prescribe medication—if medication is needed for conditions like depression or anxiety, they will coordinate care with a psychiatrist or primary care physician who can provide psychiatric medication management alongside therapeutic support.

Why should I see a lesbian therapist?
Some clients prefer to work with lesbian therapists who may bring personal lived experience to the therapeutic relationship. Choosing to work with a lesbian therapist can offer a deeper sense of connection, comfort, and shared understanding. A therapist who identifies as lesbian may require clients to give less background explanation—whether it’s about navigating romantic relationships, feeling unseen in certain spaces, or processing the impact of past relationship challenges. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. Additionally, many lesbian-affirming therapists can connect clients to other providers or community-based resources—such as bisexual support groups or LGBTQ+ organisations—that offer additional affirming spaces for connection.

How do I find a lesbian therapist?
The Psychology Today online directory is a helpful tool for finding lesbian-affirming therapists. You can use search filters to identify therapists who specialise in LGBTQ+ care and work specifically with bisexual clients. You can also filter by clinical specialties, therapeutic approaches, accepted insurance, session costs, and languages spoken to find the right fit. Look for profiles where therapists explicitly mention working with lesbian clients, or where they describe their approach as identity-affirming, inclusive, or trauma-informed. Many providers will also list their own identities, which may help you find someone with shared lived experience if that is important to you. You can also look for credentials or continuing education in areas such as LGBTQ+ mental health, trauma-informed care, and intersectionality.