LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Bristol

Photo of Eric William Blencowe, Counsellor, MBACP
Eric William Blencowe
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS16
uk/ for more information); living with Life-Limiting Illnesses; difficulties and challenges experienced being LGBTQ&A; and difficulties arising within mixed-race relationships.
I believe the most important thing in counselling is to develop a relationship of trust and confidence between therapist and client. I provide clients with a safe, confidential and warm space for them to reflect on the challenges they bring. Coming to counselling can be a daunting step; as a result it is that much more important to come into an accepting, empathic, non-judgemental environment. I take the view that there is no single approach that can be helpful to you in all situations. This gives more choice of how you want to look at your issues and creates flexibility to tailor therapy to your individual needs and aspirations.
uk/ for more information); living with Life-Limiting Illnesses; difficulties and challenges experienced being LGBTQ&A; and difficulties arising within mixed-race relationships.
I believe the most important thing in counselling is to develop a relationship of trust and confidence between therapist and client. I provide clients with a safe, confidential and warm space for them to reflect on the challenges they bring. Coming to counselling can be a daunting step; as a result it is that much more important to come into an accepting, empathic, non-judgemental environment. I take the view that there is no single approach that can be helpful to you in all situations. This gives more choice of how you want to look at your issues and creates flexibility to tailor therapy to your individual needs and aspirations.
0117 456 2592 View 0117 456 2592
Photo of Jack Mason-Goodall, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Jack Mason-Goodall
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS5
Waitlist for new clients
As a gay man, I’m passionate about creating a safe, affirming space where you feel seen and valued.
You deserve a welcoming space where you feel heard, understood and valued. I am here to offer safe and supportive therapy for individuals and groups to explore their challenges and build lives grounded in self-compassion and understanding. There are times in all of our lives when a little extra support can make a world of difference. Whether you're facing the pain of a loss or breakup, trying to untangle patterns of anxiety or isolation, or simply craving a safe space to be heard and understood, you deserve a companion on this journey.
As a gay man, I’m passionate about creating a safe, affirming space where you feel seen and valued.
You deserve a welcoming space where you feel heard, understood and valued. I am here to offer safe and supportive therapy for individuals and groups to explore their challenges and build lives grounded in self-compassion and understanding. There are times in all of our lives when a little extra support can make a world of difference. Whether you're facing the pain of a loss or breakup, trying to untangle patterns of anxiety or isolation, or simply craving a safe space to be heard and understood, you deserve a companion on this journey.
0117 463 7954 View 0117 463 7954
Photo of Andi Lee Smart, Counsellor, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Andi Lee Smart
Counsellor, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Online Only
transgender, nonbinary, omnigenderand) and sexual and relationship diversities (e.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. Sessions are delivered through a person-centered strength-based perspective. This means that in our session we focus on YOUR needs/wants/wishes through directive and none-directive dialogues/assessments/goal setting (where relevant) and, consequently, the building of a ‘resilience toolbox’ as a means to manage future stress, anxiety and/or trauma.
transgender, nonbinary, omnigenderand) and sexual and relationship diversities (e.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. Sessions are delivered through a person-centered strength-based perspective. This means that in our session we focus on YOUR needs/wants/wishes through directive and none-directive dialogues/assessments/goal setting (where relevant) and, consequently, the building of a ‘resilience toolbox’ as a means to manage future stress, anxiety and/or trauma.
0117 463 5609 View 0117 463 5609
Photo of Ky Kepner, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Ky Kepner
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS2
I work with many LGBTQIA+ people, and I am part of the queer community.
I'm a dissertation-stage psychotherapist in training, and I've been offering clients lower-cost therapy in private practice since early 2021. I aim to hold a therapeutic space that allows us to build a relationship in which you feel safe enough for us to explore your experience and difficulties, what they mean to you, how they relate to one another, and how they express themselves between us. This can expand your awareness of your relationship with yourself, others, and the environment in which you live. My hope is to help you find a way forward that feels more joyful and and authentic.
I work with many LGBTQIA+ people, and I am part of the queer community.
I'm a dissertation-stage psychotherapist in training, and I've been offering clients lower-cost therapy in private practice since early 2021. I aim to hold a therapeutic space that allows us to build a relationship in which you feel safe enough for us to explore your experience and difficulties, what they mean to you, how they relate to one another, and how they express themselves between us. This can expand your awareness of your relationship with yourself, others, and the environment in which you live. My hope is to help you find a way forward that feels more joyful and and authentic.
0117 463 3910 View 0117 463 3910
Photo of Marc James Newton - Marc Newton Counselling, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Marc Newton Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
Specialising in work with LGBTQ+ clients, I have worked with a wide range of issues around gender and sexual relationship diversity.
I provide integrative counselling tailored to your needs. Together, we can build a therapeutic relationship where you can feel safe, supported and understood. I will help you to find ways to grow, to find acceptance, and to develop more self-compassion. I can help you to work through past and present difficulties, gaining new awareness and perspective.
Specialising in work with LGBTQ+ clients, I have worked with a wide range of issues around gender and sexual relationship diversity.
I provide integrative counselling tailored to your needs. Together, we can build a therapeutic relationship where you can feel safe, supported and understood. I will help you to find ways to grow, to find acceptance, and to develop more self-compassion. I can help you to work through past and present difficulties, gaining new awareness and perspective.
0117 463 2950 View 0117 463 2950
Photo of Thomas Smithson, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Thomas Smithson
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with all adults and specialise in working with queer communities & those who are neurodivergent.
I combine several therapeutic theories & techniques to offer you a unique service tailoring my approach to you, your needs & wants. I have extensive therapeutic experience, having worked in private practice for seven years and providing over 5500 clinical hours. I have a MA in Counselling & Psychotherapy Practice, a Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling.
I work with all adults and specialise in working with queer communities & those who are neurodivergent.
I combine several therapeutic theories & techniques to offer you a unique service tailoring my approach to you, your needs & wants. I have extensive therapeutic experience, having worked in private practice for seven years and providing over 5500 clinical hours. I have a MA in Counselling & Psychotherapy Practice, a Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling.
01798 305067 View 01798 305067
Photo of Lucas Voclere - Lucas Voclere Counselling & Psychotherapy (Online)
Do you need a Therapist who is experienced with LGBTQ+, neurodiversity, cultural identity, ENM/CNM/polyamory matters?
My work is dedicated to the fitness of self-empowerment, relational transformations and the balance of sustained survival & purposeful aliveness. I can help you blossom in your relationships with yourself & others, resolve conflicts, find healing and foster healthy and meaningful ways to communicate and collaborate on what you want and need.
Do you need a Therapist who is experienced with LGBTQ+, neurodiversity, cultural identity, ENM/CNM/polyamory matters?
My work is dedicated to the fitness of self-empowerment, relational transformations and the balance of sustained survival & purposeful aliveness. I can help you blossom in your relationships with yourself & others, resolve conflicts, find healing and foster healthy and meaningful ways to communicate and collaborate on what you want and need.
0117 456 2963 View 0117 456 2963
Photo of Zoe Powell Martin, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Zoe Powell Martin
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy.
I have experience working with a broad range of mental health issues, long-term health care issues and issues due to difficult life events / circumstances. I am able to offer general counselling and also specialised counselling i.e. University Counselling and LGBT+ friendly Counselling.
I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy.
I have experience working with a broad range of mental health issues, long-term health care issues and issues due to difficult life events / circumstances. I am able to offer general counselling and also specialised counselling i.e. University Counselling and LGBT+ friendly Counselling.
01363 722166 View 01363 722166
Photo of Lynette Brice (In Safe Hands Counselling), Counsellor, MBACP
Lynette Brice (In Safe Hands Counselling)
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialise with the LGBT+ community, including their family and friends.
Accepting, safe and non-judgemental counselling service from an LGBT+ ally - I work towards my clients sensing acceptance, warmth, and safety when joining me in sessions. I possess an equal and inclusive belief, which conveys into my professional practice.
I specialise with the LGBT+ community, including their family and friends.
Accepting, safe and non-judgemental counselling service from an LGBT+ ally - I work towards my clients sensing acceptance, warmth, and safety when joining me in sessions. I possess an equal and inclusive belief, which conveys into my professional practice.
01275 409794 View 01275 409794
Photo of Stuart May, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Stuart May
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have a particular interest in bereavement and as a member of the lgbtq+ community I have lived experience of the issues that can be faced in that community.
Whether you’re facing anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, or just feeling stuck, I’m here to walk alongside you, offering gentle guidance as you navigate your own path to well-being. My goal is to create an environment where you feel comfortable, respected, and supported in every session.
I have a particular interest in bereavement and as a member of the lgbtq+ community I have lived experience of the issues that can be faced in that community.
Whether you’re facing anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, or just feeling stuck, I’m here to walk alongside you, offering gentle guidance as you navigate your own path to well-being. My goal is to create an environment where you feel comfortable, respected, and supported in every session.
0161 524 3506 View 0161 524 3506
Photo of Laura Steele, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Laura Steele
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirmative and humanistic, trusting of the wisdom you hold within.
Hi, I'm Laura, a BACP registered therapist with experience helping people to find meaningful change through exploring their feelings, thoughts, relationships, and experiences. I am a warm, relational, encouraging therapist with an open-hearted and creative approach to my practice. I appreciate the uniqueness of each person (and their experiences), and I welcome you, whatever journey you have taken to get here. I understand it can take great courage to reach out, and I offer Person-Centred Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy to help you navigate what's coming up in your life.
My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirmative and humanistic, trusting of the wisdom you hold within.
Hi, I'm Laura, a BACP registered therapist with experience helping people to find meaningful change through exploring their feelings, thoughts, relationships, and experiences. I am a warm, relational, encouraging therapist with an open-hearted and creative approach to my practice. I appreciate the uniqueness of each person (and their experiences), and I welcome you, whatever journey you have taken to get here. I understand it can take great courage to reach out, and I offer Person-Centred Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy to help you navigate what's coming up in your life.
0117 463 0552 View 0117 463 0552
Photo of Anne Amara, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Anne Amara
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and am a dedicated and compassionate counsellor with a deep understanding and commitment to serving the diverse needs of this community.
If you have never experienced therapy before, it can be hard to understand that “just talking” can help. It is my belief and experience that the strength of the relationship between the counsellor and the client is the reason why “just talking” can make such a profound difference to how you feel.
I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and am a dedicated and compassionate counsellor with a deep understanding and commitment to serving the diverse needs of this community.
If you have never experienced therapy before, it can be hard to understand that “just talking” can help. It is my belief and experience that the strength of the relationship between the counsellor and the client is the reason why “just talking” can make such a profound difference to how you feel.
0117 463 3116 View 0117 463 3116
Photo of Rhodri Karim, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Rhodri Karim
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bristol BS2
I am committed to anti-oppressive practice, affirming of trans experience, knowledgeable in issues of gender, sexual and relationship diversity (GSRD), and work with the difference that makes you who you are.
I draw from rich traditions in psychology, mythology, ecology, spirituality, and the arts, as well as my own life experience. My intention is to equip you with the tools and the confidence to become the artist of your own life. I sit on the advisory board of psychedelic welfare charity PsyCare UK, and host their podcast Frontiers in Harm Reduction.
I am committed to anti-oppressive practice, affirming of trans experience, knowledgeable in issues of gender, sexual and relationship diversity (GSRD), and work with the difference that makes you who you are.
I draw from rich traditions in psychology, mythology, ecology, spirituality, and the arts, as well as my own life experience. My intention is to equip you with the tools and the confidence to become the artist of your own life. I sit on the advisory board of psychedelic welfare charity PsyCare UK, and host their podcast Frontiers in Harm Reduction.
020 3910 6822 View 020 3910 6822
Photo of Claudia Kent, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Claudia Kent
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS6
I aim to create a safe and affirming space for individuals of diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, those exploring kink or polyamory, and anyone navigating questions of gender, sexuality, or identity.
I help clients explore the effects of issues such as shame and stigma, particularly those who have faced discrimination or exclusion due to their identities. I strive to honor the complexity of each person's narrative, building trust, respect, and a shared commitment to growth.
I aim to create a safe and affirming space for individuals of diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, those exploring kink or polyamory, and anyone navigating questions of gender, sexuality, or identity.
I help clients explore the effects of issues such as shame and stigma, particularly those who have faced discrimination or exclusion due to their identities. I strive to honor the complexity of each person's narrative, building trust, respect, and a shared commitment to growth.
01273 092301 View 01273 092301
Photo of Hywel Harrington, Counsellor, MBACP
Hywel Harrington
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’m currently taking on clients from all backgrounds, and I specialise in working with queer and trans youth and adults.
My name's Hywel, and I'm an integrative talking therapist. I'm also trans. I work with people by building collaborative relationships and allowing clients to explore what they feel is important in the moment. I enjoy working with clients who might be exploring their queer identity, or who may be considering whether or not they are neurodivergent.
I’m currently taking on clients from all backgrounds, and I specialise in working with queer and trans youth and adults.
My name's Hywel, and I'm an integrative talking therapist. I'm also trans. I work with people by building collaborative relationships and allowing clients to explore what they feel is important in the moment. I enjoy working with clients who might be exploring their queer identity, or who may be considering whether or not they are neurodivergent.
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Photo of Barbara Smith, Counsellor, MBACP
Barbara Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an Integrative therapist, which means I have been trained in a number of approaches so I can adapt to your needs. I also work relationally, believing the therapeutic relationship itself can be part of the healing process. As a queer therapist I am committed to offering those identifying as LGBTQ+ a safe and empowering space to explore issues relating to gender, sexuality and relationship diversity (GSRD). I aim to be neurodiversity affirming throughout my practice and am open to discussing your communication needs. I provide a warm, understanding and compassionate approach and aim for you to feel affirmed, understood and heard.
I am an Integrative therapist, which means I have been trained in a number of approaches so I can adapt to your needs. I also work relationally, believing the therapeutic relationship itself can be part of the healing process. As a queer therapist I am committed to offering those identifying as LGBTQ+ a safe and empowering space to explore issues relating to gender, sexuality and relationship diversity (GSRD). I aim to be neurodiversity affirming throughout my practice and am open to discussing your communication needs. I provide a warm, understanding and compassionate approach and aim for you to feel affirmed, understood and heard.
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Photo of Laura Wells, Counsellor, MBACP
Laura Wells
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I support neurodivergent, queer, and gender-expansive individuals in recalibrating overworked nervous systems.
I offer relational counselling and advanced trauma-informed care, tailored to your individual needs. By integrating talking therapy with body-based therapies, I will support you in reconnecting with your body, make sense of your experiences, explore your identity and relationships, and work towards easing the weight of past traumas.
I support neurodivergent, queer, and gender-expansive individuals in recalibrating overworked nervous systems.
I offer relational counselling and advanced trauma-informed care, tailored to your individual needs. By integrating talking therapy with body-based therapies, I will support you in reconnecting with your body, make sense of your experiences, explore your identity and relationships, and work towards easing the weight of past traumas.
01722 548964 View 01722 548964
Photo of Dr Iulian Chear, Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Dr Iulian Chear
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
Additionally, I specialise in working with issues surrounding gender, sexuality and identity, and the specific needs of the LGBTQIA+/ GSRD community.
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.
Additionally, I specialise in working with issues surrounding gender, sexuality and identity, and the specific needs of the LGBTQIA+/ GSRD community.
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 Vivienne Watson, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Vivienne Watson
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS2
Hello, I’m Vivienne, I’m a qualified counsellor who works with the LGBTQIA+ community.
I have a friendly, gentle and conscientious approach. I understand that it can be difficult to speak about very personal thoughts and feelings and I create a space that feels safe to do this, where you will not feel judged and are able to be yourself. To me, it’s important to have this kind of safety to help us work through what might be going on for you.
Hello, I’m Vivienne, I’m a qualified counsellor who works with the LGBTQIA+ community.
I have a friendly, gentle and conscientious approach. I understand that it can be difficult to speak about very personal thoughts and feelings and I create a space that feels safe to do this, where you will not feel judged and are able to be yourself. To me, it’s important to have this kind of safety to help us work through what might be going on for you.
0117 463 8481 View 0117 463 8481
Photo of Rob Speare, Psychotherapist, MSc, UKCP Trainee
Rob Speare
Psychotherapist, MSc, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS3
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience of working with people with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, OCD, addiction, low self-esteem, and people from the LGBTQIA community.
There are lots of reasons why someone might consider therapy; it could be due to anxiety, depression, a breakdown of a relationship, bereavement, a loss of a job, or a niggling feeling that something does not feel quite right. I am here to provide you with a safe, confidential space where you can feel supported in your journey of self-exploration, allowing you to process your thoughts, feelings, behaviours, hopes, and fears. I believe that through therapy we can gain insight and understand ourselves better, which can be life changing. I also offer affordable low-cost therapy, and each 50-minute session is £35.00
I have extensive experience of working with people with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, OCD, addiction, low self-esteem, and people from the LGBTQIA community.
There are lots of reasons why someone might consider therapy; it could be due to anxiety, depression, a breakdown of a relationship, bereavement, a loss of a job, or a niggling feeling that something does not feel quite right. I am here to provide you with a safe, confidential space where you can feel supported in your journey of self-exploration, allowing you to process your thoughts, feelings, behaviours, hopes, and fears. I believe that through therapy we can gain insight and understand ourselves better, which can be life changing. I also offer affordable low-cost therapy, and each 50-minute session is £35.00
01454 804746 View 01454 804746
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See more therapy options for Bristol

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.