Counselling in Bristol
If you're neurodivergent, facing enduring mental health or relationship challenges, and feel overlooked by conventional approaches, I'm here to take a different path with you. I want to hear about the world from your perspective—your challenges, your aspirations, your day-to-day. This isn't about fitting you into a box or fixing what's 'wrong'. I'm keen to hear your story – the real you, with all the quirks and colours that make you, well, you. If you're ready for a fresh ear and a new chapter, I'm here to flip the script with you.
If you're neurodivergent, facing enduring mental health or relationship challenges, and feel overlooked by conventional approaches, I'm here to take a different path with you. I want to hear about the world from your perspective—your challenges, your aspirations, your day-to-day. This isn't about fitting you into a box or fixing what's 'wrong'. I'm keen to hear your story – the real you, with all the quirks and colours that make you, well, you. If you're ready for a fresh ear and a new chapter, I'm here to flip the script with you.
I offer therapy and supervision and have a particular interest in trauma and how it impacts our nervous system: CPTSD, PTSD, and DID; dissociation, hearing voices, addictive behaviours and coping mechanisms and links to childhood trauma. 'ACE's' (Adverse Childhood Experiences), and how these affect us as adults. Trauma comes in many forms; overt ones such as physical or sexual abuse, car accidents, war, disasters etc, and less obvious or covert forms like emotional abuse or neglect, bullying, or just 'not getting what we need' on an emotional level. I am accredited with UKCP, and have specialist trauma training.
I offer therapy and supervision and have a particular interest in trauma and how it impacts our nervous system: CPTSD, PTSD, and DID; dissociation, hearing voices, addictive behaviours and coping mechanisms and links to childhood trauma. 'ACE's' (Adverse Childhood Experiences), and how these affect us as adults. Trauma comes in many forms; overt ones such as physical or sexual abuse, car accidents, war, disasters etc, and less obvious or covert forms like emotional abuse or neglect, bullying, or just 'not getting what we need' on an emotional level. I am accredited with UKCP, and have specialist trauma training.
We are living in challengesing times and its impact on our mental health is no surprise. You may never have experienced anxiety or depression before, and so now that can feel daunting, or its familar for you. My experience has enabled me to understand the ways we can look after mental wellbeing. I am supportive, encouraging, patient and calm. I take an active part in the counselling work and I want to understand the cause of your struggle. Sometimes it can help to talk about your past experiences and relationships, gathering insight into how they may impact the present time.
We are living in challengesing times and its impact on our mental health is no surprise. You may never have experienced anxiety or depression before, and so now that can feel daunting, or its familar for you. My experience has enabled me to understand the ways we can look after mental wellbeing. I am supportive, encouraging, patient and calm. I take an active part in the counselling work and I want to understand the cause of your struggle. Sometimes it can help to talk about your past experiences and relationships, gathering insight into how they may impact the present time.
Dr Lucy Kozlowski
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS35 (Online Only)
I am the Service Lead for Third Wave Psychologist, an online clinical psychology practice. My specialisms are long-term health conditions (e.g. long covid, pain, fatigue, IBS, diabetes, obesity & neurological conditions, tinnitus, hyperacusis, misophonia) & supporting people undertaking elective & cosmetic surgery. I also specialise in perinatal mental health (e.g. antenatal & postnatal depression, anxiety, family issues) & staff & student wellbeing, including common mental health issues (e.g. stress, low mood, anger, adjustment, anxiety, trauma, bereavement, grief & self-esteem issues).
I am the Service Lead for Third Wave Psychologist, an online clinical psychology practice. My specialisms are long-term health conditions (e.g. long covid, pain, fatigue, IBS, diabetes, obesity & neurological conditions, tinnitus, hyperacusis, misophonia) & supporting people undertaking elective & cosmetic surgery. I also specialise in perinatal mental health (e.g. antenatal & postnatal depression, anxiety, family issues) & staff & student wellbeing, including common mental health issues (e.g. stress, low mood, anger, adjustment, anxiety, trauma, bereavement, grief & self-esteem issues).
I offer counselling in Bristol and online for individuals and couples experiencing a range of issues. I completed my Level 6 Diploma with merit and MSc in Psychology with commendation. I have worked in placements at an addiction clinic and the Wellbeing Service at the University of West of England and I have 1500+ hours of therapy experience. My experience includes (but is not limited to) stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, long-term illness and self-esteem.
I offer counselling in Bristol and online for individuals and couples experiencing a range of issues. I completed my Level 6 Diploma with merit and MSc in Psychology with commendation. I have worked in placements at an addiction clinic and the Wellbeing Service at the University of West of England and I have 1500+ hours of therapy experience. My experience includes (but is not limited to) stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, long-term illness and self-esteem.
James Saunders
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You have taken a brave step. Something has brought you to this moment, to seek support and address whatever is troubling you. Finding a counsellor you feel comfortable with and able to talk to is an important decision. I offer a warm, kind, and gentle space where you can explore your challenges at your own pace. I use a person-centered approach, meaning I believe you are the expert on your own experience. I will listen attentively and without judgement, offering support and guidance as you discover your own path to healing and growth.
You have taken a brave step. Something has brought you to this moment, to seek support and address whatever is troubling you. Finding a counsellor you feel comfortable with and able to talk to is an important decision. I offer a warm, kind, and gentle space where you can explore your challenges at your own pace. I use a person-centered approach, meaning I believe you are the expert on your own experience. I will listen attentively and without judgement, offering support and guidance as you discover your own path to healing and growth.
Hello - if you are struggling with low mood, anxiety or overwhelm I offer empathetic, friendly and professional support. Working together I can help you to develop the attitudes and skills to better manage emotional and life issues. Client quotes: 'My experience of therapy with Karin was positive and enlightening... the strategies and techniques we discussed are still proving invaluable long after my sessions.' ‘The biggest thing I learned is to allow myself to say no to taking on additional commitments without feeling guilty.
Hello - if you are struggling with low mood, anxiety or overwhelm I offer empathetic, friendly and professional support. Working together I can help you to develop the attitudes and skills to better manage emotional and life issues. Client quotes: 'My experience of therapy with Karin was positive and enlightening... the strategies and techniques we discussed are still proving invaluable long after my sessions.' ‘The biggest thing I learned is to allow myself to say no to taking on additional commitments without feeling guilty.
I am a person-centred counsellor dedicated to creating a safe, warm, and non-judgmental space. I believe you are the expert on your life and already have the internal resources to improve it. My role is not to direct or "fix" but to walk alongside you, helping you gently connect with those resources, fostering self-compassion, empowerment, and self-acceptance. Inclusivity is at the heart of my practice. I welcome and celebrate people from all backgrounds, identities, and walks of life. I provide a collaborative and empathetic environment where everyone is respected and valued. We can work at your own pace to achieve your goals.
I am a person-centred counsellor dedicated to creating a safe, warm, and non-judgmental space. I believe you are the expert on your life and already have the internal resources to improve it. My role is not to direct or "fix" but to walk alongside you, helping you gently connect with those resources, fostering self-compassion, empowerment, and self-acceptance. Inclusivity is at the heart of my practice. I welcome and celebrate people from all backgrounds, identities, and walks of life. I provide a collaborative and empathetic environment where everyone is respected and valued. We can work at your own pace to achieve your goals.
Addiction can be life threatening, create fear and shame and often mask underlining issues, while creating further distress. Treatment needs an informed understanding, education, support and gentle challenge. As a lead therapist in a prestigious rehab, I manage other counsellors and work with clients bringing a specialism of trauma into the treatment of addiction. This weaves through the work in my private practice. My training, studies and experience, both professionally and personally has taken me toward looking at addiction as a symptom of psychological trauma.
Addiction can be life threatening, create fear and shame and often mask underlining issues, while creating further distress. Treatment needs an informed understanding, education, support and gentle challenge. As a lead therapist in a prestigious rehab, I manage other counsellors and work with clients bringing a specialism of trauma into the treatment of addiction. This weaves through the work in my private practice. My training, studies and experience, both professionally and personally has taken me toward looking at addiction as a symptom of psychological trauma.
Dr Natalie Stott
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS8 (Online Only)
Also trained in EMDR, I am a HCPC registered clinical psychologist specialising in working with high achievers and professionals who experience intense anxiety and burnout, often brought about by perfectionism, imposter syndrome and people pleasing. You may have reached a roadblock because of the demands of your job, or because of difficult life circumstances. I can help you to regain your self confidence and work through those intense feelings of anxiety or not feeling good enough. It is possible make changes and learn to see yourself differently.
Also trained in EMDR, I am a HCPC registered clinical psychologist specialising in working with high achievers and professionals who experience intense anxiety and burnout, often brought about by perfectionism, imposter syndrome and people pleasing. You may have reached a roadblock because of the demands of your job, or because of difficult life circumstances. I can help you to regain your self confidence and work through those intense feelings of anxiety or not feeling good enough. It is possible make changes and learn to see yourself differently.
I offer a safe & confidential place for you to come and talk about anything in your life that may be causing you distress or confusion. I believe that counselling can benefit anyone; it can really help to talk to someone who is objective & professional. Often people come to counselling with no clear idea of what they want or how they feel. There is no expectation from me with regards to the issues you bring; counselling is your space & it is common for people to feel confused or unsure. My aim is to support you through the process & help you to better understand yourself & your struggles, so that you can move forward with your life.
I offer a safe & confidential place for you to come and talk about anything in your life that may be causing you distress or confusion. I believe that counselling can benefit anyone; it can really help to talk to someone who is objective & professional. Often people come to counselling with no clear idea of what they want or how they feel. There is no expectation from me with regards to the issues you bring; counselling is your space & it is common for people to feel confused or unsure. My aim is to support you through the process & help you to better understand yourself & your struggles, so that you can move forward with your life.
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I work with both individuals and couples. As an individual, some sudden event may have thrown you into crisis and challenged your ability to cope. This might include, a difficulty in a relationship; a loss/bereavement of some kind; or a change that has resulted in stress/anxiety and a feeling of being destabilised. Alternatively you may be suffering from a more general, on-going struggle to see any direction or purpose. A feeling of being disconnected from yourself and others and of there being very little enjoyment in your life.
I work with both individuals and couples. As an individual, some sudden event may have thrown you into crisis and challenged your ability to cope. This might include, a difficulty in a relationship; a loss/bereavement of some kind; or a change that has resulted in stress/anxiety and a feeling of being destabilised. Alternatively you may be suffering from a more general, on-going struggle to see any direction or purpose. A feeling of being disconnected from yourself and others and of there being very little enjoyment in your life.
Are you a counsellor looking for supervision within the Bristol area but also want something that is affordable? My name is Kerry I am a qualified integrative counsellor and supervisor. I am the founder of a well established and recognised counselling company in Bristol, where I manage and support a team of up to 30 student and qualified counsellors. My ethos has always been to provide support to others that is affordable and easy to access and this is exactly what I hope to provide as a supervisor to. I am able to work both online/telephone and in person.
Are you a counsellor looking for supervision within the Bristol area but also want something that is affordable? My name is Kerry I am a qualified integrative counsellor and supervisor. I am the founder of a well established and recognised counselling company in Bristol, where I manage and support a team of up to 30 student and qualified counsellors. My ethos has always been to provide support to others that is affordable and easy to access and this is exactly what I hope to provide as a supervisor to. I am able to work both online/telephone and in person.
I am a trained integrative therapist and have worked in the areas of complex trauma, abuse, addiction and mental health for a number of years. I have trained as an integrative counsellor which means I have studied and experienced a wide variety of skills, techniques and theories that enable me to provide a tailored approach to each individual's specific goals and needs. I work in a safe, paced and creative way that will enrich the relationship and keep you, the client, resourced to engage in the therapeutic process.
I am a trained integrative therapist and have worked in the areas of complex trauma, abuse, addiction and mental health for a number of years. I have trained as an integrative counsellor which means I have studied and experienced a wide variety of skills, techniques and theories that enable me to provide a tailored approach to each individual's specific goals and needs. I work in a safe, paced and creative way that will enrich the relationship and keep you, the client, resourced to engage in the therapeutic process.
Hello! I'm Ed (he/him). Life can be hard at any time and I’m here to work alongside you with whatever you choose to bring to our sessions. I am a fully trained integrative counsellor and have previous experience working with clients who present with mental health, addiction and trauma issues. I have also volunteered with the Samaritans for two years and undertaken further CPD training around student mental health, shame, neurodiversity, trans awareness, and weight bias.
Hello! I'm Ed (he/him). Life can be hard at any time and I’m here to work alongside you with whatever you choose to bring to our sessions. I am a fully trained integrative counsellor and have previous experience working with clients who present with mental health, addiction and trauma issues. I have also volunteered with the Samaritans for two years and undertaken further CPD training around student mental health, shame, neurodiversity, trans awareness, and weight bias.
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults to overcome mental health problems. CBT is an ideal treatment for those who are looking to change, whether that be to make some changes in the way in which you think about things, or some changes in the way in which you do things day to day. CBT can also help clients come to an understanding of 'why', E.G. what is it about you, your experiences & vulnerabilities which perhaps help explain why you struggle. This is often validating & helpful rather than self blaming. Together we will equip you with the skills and understanding you need in order to move forward with confidence.
I have over 10 years of experience working with adults to overcome mental health problems. CBT is an ideal treatment for those who are looking to change, whether that be to make some changes in the way in which you think about things, or some changes in the way in which you do things day to day. CBT can also help clients come to an understanding of 'why', E.G. what is it about you, your experiences & vulnerabilities which perhaps help explain why you struggle. This is often validating & helpful rather than self blaming. Together we will equip you with the skills and understanding you need in order to move forward with confidence.
People come to counselling for all sorts of reasons. Whatever is going on for you, I offer a safe and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions and the challenges you are going through. I have experience working with anxiety, anger, self-esteem, relationships, abuse, trauma, guilt and shame. Specialising in work with LGBTQ+ clients, I have worked with a wide range of issues around gender and sexual relationship diversity. Whilst these may or may not be the focus of our work together, I provide a space where clients can consider how these aspects of identity affect their wider lives.
People come to counselling for all sorts of reasons. Whatever is going on for you, I offer a safe and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions and the challenges you are going through. I have experience working with anxiety, anger, self-esteem, relationships, abuse, trauma, guilt and shame. Specialising in work with LGBTQ+ clients, I have worked with a wide range of issues around gender and sexual relationship diversity. Whilst these may or may not be the focus of our work together, I provide a space where clients can consider how these aspects of identity affect their wider lives.
Humanistically recognising the needs of an individual ,we see how trauma can be held at a very deep level. Working from the story of an individuals early negative & positive childhood experiences and using Integrative therapy in a number of ways to help the process of getting to one's core beliefs, helps to create a safe space for them to explore and release old patterns. This happens by building a trust with the client to allow their vulnerability to come through. Then, looking at the blocks or defences, via counselling and body Psychotherapy, a unique holistic approach to wellbeing, allows the journey back to health.
Humanistically recognising the needs of an individual ,we see how trauma can be held at a very deep level. Working from the story of an individuals early negative & positive childhood experiences and using Integrative therapy in a number of ways to help the process of getting to one's core beliefs, helps to create a safe space for them to explore and release old patterns. This happens by building a trust with the client to allow their vulnerability to come through. Then, looking at the blocks or defences, via counselling and body Psychotherapy, a unique holistic approach to wellbeing, allows the journey back to health.
People come to counselling for many different reasons. It’s a brave first step to make; to decide that you might need or want help processing your thoughts and feelings with another person. Counselling can often help us to understand ourselves better; reframe the way we experience ourselves and help us to open up to the possibility of change. As a counsellor, my focus is on the relationship that is co-created in a safe, non-judgemental space with clients. I believe that once we feel that we are being listened to and heard by another we can express our authentic self; the parts of us that may be hidden in everyday life.
People come to counselling for many different reasons. It’s a brave first step to make; to decide that you might need or want help processing your thoughts and feelings with another person. Counselling can often help us to understand ourselves better; reframe the way we experience ourselves and help us to open up to the possibility of change. As a counsellor, my focus is on the relationship that is co-created in a safe, non-judgemental space with clients. I believe that once we feel that we are being listened to and heard by another we can express our authentic self; the parts of us that may be hidden in everyday life.
People will come to therapy at different points in their life for different reasons. For some people, difficult emotions, distress or a stuck feeling may have developed over a period of time; for others a significant life experience may prompt the need for therapeutic support. Whatever your specific circumstances are, recognising the need for support is a positive step forward. I offer a gentle, empathetic approach, creating a safe place in which to explore the areas my clients wish to focus on.
People will come to therapy at different points in their life for different reasons. For some people, difficult emotions, distress or a stuck feeling may have developed over a period of time; for others a significant life experience may prompt the need for therapeutic support. Whatever your specific circumstances are, recognising the need for support is a positive step forward. I offer a gentle, empathetic approach, creating a safe place in which to explore the areas my clients wish to focus on.
See more therapy options for Bristol
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Bristol
700+
Average cost per session
£60
Counsellors in Bristol who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
85% | Self Esteem |
78% | Relationship Issues |
78% | Stress |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
62% | Bereavement |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
60% | AXA PPP |
59% | Aviva |
47% | Bupa |
How Counsellors in Bristol see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
27% | 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
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.
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.
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.