Counselling in Bristol

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Photo of Dr Priya Palmer, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Priya Palmer
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Bristol BS6
I am ready to work with you to create change. If you have been struggling with trauma, anxiety, or painful memories that won’t go away, you are not alone. Reaching out for help can be the hardest first step. I work with a range of difficulties: PTSD, low mood, anxiety, panic, phobias, self-esteem, self-criticism, birth trauma and difficult life experiences. I also hold a specialist EMDR interest in working with people who experience anxiety, fears, trauma in relation to skiing. Perhaps you have experienced or witness a ski accident, or have anxiety with heights/chairlifts.
I am ready to work with you to create change. If you have been struggling with trauma, anxiety, or painful memories that won’t go away, you are not alone. Reaching out for help can be the hardest first step. I work with a range of difficulties: PTSD, low mood, anxiety, panic, phobias, self-esteem, self-criticism, birth trauma and difficult life experiences. I also hold a specialist EMDR interest in working with people who experience anxiety, fears, trauma in relation to skiing. Perhaps you have experienced or witness a ski accident, or have anxiety with heights/chairlifts.
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Photo of Sarah Pascoe - Sarah Pascoe Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Sarah Pascoe Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Bristol BS2
You may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or past trauma. You may struggle with relationships, life transitions, or feel disconnected from yourself and others. If you are looking for a safe and compassionate space to express your emotions, gain clarity, and develop healthier coping strategies to heal, grow, and rediscover confidence and self-worth, then I would love to be part of your journey. My role is to help you feel heard, valued, and empowered to make positive changes in your life. You may feel unsure if this is right for you, a no obligation 15 minute call, might help you decide.
You may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or past trauma. You may struggle with relationships, life transitions, or feel disconnected from yourself and others. If you are looking for a safe and compassionate space to express your emotions, gain clarity, and develop healthier coping strategies to heal, grow, and rediscover confidence and self-worth, then I would love to be part of your journey. My role is to help you feel heard, valued, and empowered to make positive changes in your life. You may feel unsure if this is right for you, a no obligation 15 minute call, might help you decide.
01454 801099 View 01454 801099
Photo of Sarah Krantz, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Sarah Krantz
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Bristol BS8
Not accepting new clients
I am a highly experienced counselling psychologist and psychotherapist. With additional training in Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Mindfulness and couples therapy I am able to work with many client presentations.
I am a highly experienced counselling psychologist and psychotherapist. With additional training in Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Mindfulness and couples therapy I am able to work with many client presentations.
0117 463 8249 View 0117 463 8249
Photo of Hannah Raine-Smith, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Hannah Raine-Smith
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Bristol BS1
I am an integrative therapist specialising in using eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to treat a wide range of psychological issues. I am highly trained in psychotherapy, neuroscience and trauma and believe that our current issues can often be traced back to early adverse experiences in childhood. Compared to standard talking therapy EMDR generally takes a shorter amount of time to get to the root cause of the issue. Rather than just dealing with symptom management (like CBT), EMDR therapy works directly with the cause of your distress.
I am an integrative therapist specialising in using eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to treat a wide range of psychological issues. I am highly trained in psychotherapy, neuroscience and trauma and believe that our current issues can often be traced back to early adverse experiences in childhood. Compared to standard talking therapy EMDR generally takes a shorter amount of time to get to the root cause of the issue. Rather than just dealing with symptom management (like CBT), EMDR therapy works directly with the cause of your distress.
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Photo of Jordan Hodge - The Apsley Clinic, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
The Apsley Clinic
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Bristol BS15
At the Apsley Clinic, we have a team of dedicated Practitioners who can assess, treat, and support your mental health needs within just 72 hours of referral. We strive to support you as soon as possible, offering a range of Psychological therapies, including Psychotherapy and Counselling. Our experienced medical professionals put your Mental Health needs first. We are proud to provide a high quality multi-disciplinary team of therapists and Mental Health Practitioners to provide Psychological support that is client centred and tailored to you . Our goal is to make you feel better as quickly as possible.
At the Apsley Clinic, we have a team of dedicated Practitioners who can assess, treat, and support your mental health needs within just 72 hours of referral. We strive to support you as soon as possible, offering a range of Psychological therapies, including Psychotherapy and Counselling. Our experienced medical professionals put your Mental Health needs first. We are proud to provide a high quality multi-disciplinary team of therapists and Mental Health Practitioners to provide Psychological support that is client centred and tailored to you . Our goal is to make you feel better as quickly as possible.
0117 463 4597 View 0117 463 4597
Photo of Hannah Lehrain, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Hannah Lehrain
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Bristol BS1
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward? Perhaps life has thrown more at you than you can bear. Life can feel especially challenging after loss, trauma, or navigating major changes like becoming a parent or starting a new chapter. You’ve endured so much, yet you’re still here, looking for a way to create change. I know how hard it can be to take that first step, but I’m here to provide a warm, safe space where you feel truly seen and supported. Together, we’ll make sense of what’s keeping you stuck and explore ways to help you move toward a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward? Perhaps life has thrown more at you than you can bear. Life can feel especially challenging after loss, trauma, or navigating major changes like becoming a parent or starting a new chapter. You’ve endured so much, yet you’re still here, looking for a way to create change. I know how hard it can be to take that first step, but I’m here to provide a warm, safe space where you feel truly seen and supported. Together, we’ll make sense of what’s keeping you stuck and explore ways to help you move toward a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling.
0117 456 2877 View 0117 456 2877
Photo of Lewis James Cooksley, Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Lewis James Cooksley
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Bristol BS16
I am able to help clients with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety and depression, confidence, self esteem, self worth, and relationship issues. I work on a weekly basis from my home or online. I work with individual adults on a one to one basis. I offer a space free of judgement where you are put at the centre of all that we do. The process is lead by you and I join you alongside your journey, never leading, but following alongside you.
I am able to help clients with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety and depression, confidence, self esteem, self worth, and relationship issues. I work on a weekly basis from my home or online. I work with individual adults on a one to one basis. I offer a space free of judgement where you are put at the centre of all that we do. The process is lead by you and I join you alongside your journey, never leading, but following alongside you.
01454 802788 View 01454 802788
Photo of Uschi Rigby, Counsellor, MBACP
Uschi Rigby
Counsellor, MBACP
Bristol BS6
I am passionate about giving people the opportunity to live the life they want to live, instead of being hampered by negative thought patterns, beliefs and behaviours. Being qualified as person-centred integrative counsellor I work in a relational, intuitive way, giving you a safe, confidential space to be heard and understood. I see my work as walking alongside with you through crises and self-exploration to help you discover your inner strengths, competence, resilience and joy.
I am passionate about giving people the opportunity to live the life they want to live, instead of being hampered by negative thought patterns, beliefs and behaviours. Being qualified as person-centred integrative counsellor I work in a relational, intuitive way, giving you a safe, confidential space to be heard and understood. I see my work as walking alongside with you through crises and self-exploration to help you discover your inner strengths, competence, resilience and joy.
0117 456 2118 View 0117 456 2118
Photo of Sandra Elizabeth Wilson - Sandra Wilson Clinical Hypnotherapy, MSc
Hi, I'm Sandra, a Clinical Hypnotherapist who works with ADHD symptoms, chronic anxiety, PTSD, trauma, OCD, sexual problems, rejection sensitivity, low self esteem, people-pleasing, performance anxiety and peri/menopause symptoms. I have 50 five star google ratings too! Get in touch for a friendly chat.
Hi, I'm Sandra, a Clinical Hypnotherapist who works with ADHD symptoms, chronic anxiety, PTSD, trauma, OCD, sexual problems, rejection sensitivity, low self esteem, people-pleasing, performance anxiety and peri/menopause symptoms. I have 50 five star google ratings too! Get in touch for a friendly chat.
0117 325 5737 View 0117 325 5737
Photo of Angela Dawn Briggs - Angela Briggs Counselling Service, Counsellor, MBACP
Counselling provides time in your week where you are listened to and supported to explore areas of your life that may be troubling you. I will help you work through difficult issues, enabling you to have more understanding and clarity around these issues. I am an integrative counsellor, this means my practice is informed by more than one style of counselling theory. Having an integrative approach allows the therapy to dynamically adapt to you and your needs, as opposed to being informed by a ridged style of theory.
Counselling provides time in your week where you are listened to and supported to explore areas of your life that may be troubling you. I will help you work through difficult issues, enabling you to have more understanding and clarity around these issues. I am an integrative counsellor, this means my practice is informed by more than one style of counselling theory. Having an integrative approach allows the therapy to dynamically adapt to you and your needs, as opposed to being informed by a ridged style of theory.
01454 803931 View 01454 803931
Photo of Michelle Gale, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Michelle Gale
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Bristol BS9
Hello, I’m Michelle. I provide both short and long-term counselling for individuals and couples, from my home office in Westbury-on-Trym, North Bristol. I am a registered member of The British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP). I have extensive experience working with adults facing a variety of challenges, including childhood trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, and relationship issues (such as communication difficulties, infidelity, separation, and parenting struggles).
Hello, I’m Michelle. I provide both short and long-term counselling for individuals and couples, from my home office in Westbury-on-Trym, North Bristol. I am a registered member of The British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP). I have extensive experience working with adults facing a variety of challenges, including childhood trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, and relationship issues (such as communication difficulties, infidelity, separation, and parenting struggles).
0117 463 4577 View 0117 463 4577
Photo of Charlotte Anne Brydon-Smith, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Charlotte Anne Brydon-Smith
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS1
Therapy with me is about showing up as thoroughly as you can. In this space, you can be as authentic as you dare, knowing that every part of you is welcomed without judgment. We’ll build a relationship that allows us to go deep, or stay on the surface, exploring the struggles and the parts of you that show up in the space. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship as a catalyst for change. Through our work, we’ll uncover the patterns that no longer serve you, and explore what truly matters to you.
Therapy with me is about showing up as thoroughly as you can. In this space, you can be as authentic as you dare, knowing that every part of you is welcomed without judgment. We’ll build a relationship that allows us to go deep, or stay on the surface, exploring the struggles and the parts of you that show up in the space. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship as a catalyst for change. Through our work, we’ll uncover the patterns that no longer serve you, and explore what truly matters to you.
0117 463 0788 View 0117 463 0788
Photo of Beth Collins, Counsellor, MBACP
Beth Collins
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS30
I offer 1:1 counselling online, over the phone and in person.
I offer 1:1 counselling online, over the phone and in person.
0117 463 5441 View 0117 463 5441
Photo of Emma Reeves, Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Emma Reeves
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Bristol BS6
I am Art Psychotherapist providing art therapy sessions to adults and young adults in Bristol. I have 15 years experience practicing as an Art Psychotherapist with children, young people and adults in the voluntary sector. I am currently working within the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. I am familiar with working with the wide range of symptoms arising from trauma such as: anxiety, depression, self harm, behavioural difficulties, dissociation, hyperactivity, hypervigilance, eating difficulties, social difficulties, anger, aggression, etc. I am specialised in working with trauma.
I am Art Psychotherapist providing art therapy sessions to adults and young adults in Bristol. I have 15 years experience practicing as an Art Psychotherapist with children, young people and adults in the voluntary sector. I am currently working within the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. I am familiar with working with the wide range of symptoms arising from trauma such as: anxiety, depression, self harm, behavioural difficulties, dissociation, hyperactivity, hypervigilance, eating difficulties, social difficulties, anger, aggression, etc. I am specialised in working with trauma.
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Photo of Dr Eoin Earley, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Eoin Earley
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Bristol BS6
I believe in the power of opening up, and while I will draw on theory and knowledge to support each individual client, I am led by the client and their individual needs. An ideal client is someone who wishes to build a therapeutic space alongside me, allowing me to facilitate safety and build trust. I am interested in helping others to develop personal growth and insight through the relational dynamics they experience.
I believe in the power of opening up, and while I will draw on theory and knowledge to support each individual client, I am led by the client and their individual needs. An ideal client is someone who wishes to build a therapeutic space alongside me, allowing me to facilitate safety and build trust. I am interested in helping others to develop personal growth and insight through the relational dynamics they experience.
0117 428 8154 View 0117 428 8154
Photo of Dr Iulian Chear, Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Dr Iulian Chear
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Bristol BS1
Asking yourself how you can make your life more meaningful, in spite of whatever issue you may be struggling with? Counselling can help you make sense of it and move forward. I provide a safe, engaging, and supportive space for you to explore any issue that is troubling you. The ultimate goal would be to help you create a more meaningful life and new ways of approaching your relationship with yourself and others.
Asking yourself how you can make your life more meaningful, in spite of whatever issue you may be struggling with? Counselling can help you make sense of it and move forward. I provide a safe, engaging, and supportive space for you to explore any issue that is troubling you. The ultimate goal would be to help you create a more meaningful life and new ways of approaching your relationship with yourself and others.
0117 463 7137 View 0117 463 7137
Photo of Dr Sam Johnston, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Sam Johnston
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Firstly, I think it's amazing that you're making the first step in your journey towards feeling better in your life, whatever that means to you. I would be honoured to support you towards your recovery of mental health difficulties and thank you for considering me! I focus on what’s happened to you, not what’s “wrong” with you. You might have symptoms of anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, significant drug and alcohol use, or been given a label of “personality disorder”, and I can support you to understand what this means and how to move forward. I aim to help people make significant changes in their lives to feel better.
Firstly, I think it's amazing that you're making the first step in your journey towards feeling better in your life, whatever that means to you. I would be honoured to support you towards your recovery of mental health difficulties and thank you for considering me! I focus on what’s happened to you, not what’s “wrong” with you. You might have symptoms of anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, significant drug and alcohol use, or been given a label of “personality disorder”, and I can support you to understand what this means and how to move forward. I aim to help people make significant changes in their lives to feel better.
01454 802779 View 01454 802779
Photo of Kate Buchanan, Counsellor, MBACP
Kate Buchanan
Counsellor, MBACP
Bristol BS3
Are you having to cope with the death of a loved one, and feeling the overwhelming experience of loss and grief? Have you or someone you love been diagnosed with a terminal illness? You are not alone. I provide a space where you can talk and be listened to as you explore your experience of bereavement or a terminal health diagnosis. I can give you the chance to express how you feel, and say the things you feel unable to say to friends and family, without feeling judged.
Are you having to cope with the death of a loved one, and feeling the overwhelming experience of loss and grief? Have you or someone you love been diagnosed with a terminal illness? You are not alone. I provide a space where you can talk and be listened to as you explore your experience of bereavement or a terminal health diagnosis. I can give you the chance to express how you feel, and say the things you feel unable to say to friends and family, without feeling judged.
0117 463 6720 View 0117 463 6720
Photo of Jane Lomax, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Jane Lomax
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Bristol BS5
Many of us feel stuck, low, anxious, or overwhelmed at times. Whatever you are struggling with, I will help you to make sense of things and support you to develop insight, skills and strategies to make changes that will make a difference in your life. I am experienced in working with adults and young people with a range of difficulties such as stress, low mood, anxiety, panic, PTSD, low self-esteem, identity or relationship difficulties, difficult life experiences, and addiction. I also offer psychological support to people facing health challenges or living with long-term health conditions (e.g., pain, fatigue, COPD, cancer).
Many of us feel stuck, low, anxious, or overwhelmed at times. Whatever you are struggling with, I will help you to make sense of things and support you to develop insight, skills and strategies to make changes that will make a difference in your life. I am experienced in working with adults and young people with a range of difficulties such as stress, low mood, anxiety, panic, PTSD, low self-esteem, identity or relationship difficulties, difficult life experiences, and addiction. I also offer psychological support to people facing health challenges or living with long-term health conditions (e.g., pain, fatigue, COPD, cancer).
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Photo of Joss Lloyd, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Joss Lloyd
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Bristol BS2
We can sometimes find ourselves feeling disconnected, either from others, from our inner life and purpose, or both. Sometimes we find ourselves holding thoughts and emotions inside, unsure whether we'll be truly understood. Sometimes, despite knowing the changes we want to make, we can feel stuck and powerless. I offer a confidential, relational space in central Bristol to explore together the personal challenges you may be facing. My approach is grounded in human relationship - my intention is to meet you where you are, with whatever it is you are carrying, with compassion and sensitivity.
We can sometimes find ourselves feeling disconnected, either from others, from our inner life and purpose, or both. Sometimes we find ourselves holding thoughts and emotions inside, unsure whether we'll be truly understood. Sometimes, despite knowing the changes we want to make, we can feel stuck and powerless. I offer a confidential, relational space in central Bristol to explore together the personal challenges you may be facing. My approach is grounded in human relationship - my intention is to meet you where you are, with whatever it is you are carrying, with compassion and sensitivity.
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See more therapy options for Bristol

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Bristol

800+

Average cost per session

£60

Counsellors in Bristol who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
84% Self Esteem
83% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
76% Stress
68% Trauma and PTSD
60% Bereavement

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

60% Aviva
60% AXA PPP
51% Bupa

How Counsellors in Bristol see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
28% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Bristol?

Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Most Psychologists in the directory are accredited members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and/or are registered in the Health and Care Professions Council (HPCP).

Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?

Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in the UK. Psychologists have earned a degree in psychology and many are members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and have completed a postgraduate qualification in a specialism. Counsellors and Psychotherapists are not required to have a psychology degree, but to belong to a professional organisation such as the BACP or UKCP, they are required to have completed a training course as well as clinical and supervision hours.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the UK could be between £30 - £60 when seeing a counsellor and £60 - £150 and up when seeing a clinical psychologist. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the BACP, the UKCP, or BPS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there has been participation in a criminal act or act of terror, or if there is potential or known harm to the client or others, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.