LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Bristol, ENG
Marc Newton Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS1
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.
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.
Ky Kepner
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS2
Particular areas of interest/experience include living with chronic illness, the difficulties faced by neurodivergent people, and LGBTQ+ life.
I'm a trainee psychotherapist in my final year, and I've been offering clients affordable therapy in private practice for 3 years. 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.
Particular areas of interest/experience include living with chronic illness, the difficulties faced by neurodivergent people, and LGBTQ+ life.
I'm a trainee psychotherapist in my final year, and I've been offering clients affordable therapy in private practice for 3 years. 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.
Thomas Smithson
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Tom, and my aim is to offer you a supportive and kind space to experience change, healing and to help you explore whatever it is you are going through. Much of my work supports clients with depression, anxiety, relationships, connection, identity, self-esteem, existential thoughts and the search for meaning. You might also be going through life changes, looking to explore yourself or understand, challenge & change behaviours. I work with all adults and specialise in working with queer communities & those who are neurodivergent. These will be your sessions and I aim to help you work towards whatever goals you have.
Hello, my name is Tom, and my aim is to offer you a supportive and kind space to experience change, healing and to help you explore whatever it is you are going through. Much of my work supports clients with depression, anxiety, relationships, connection, identity, self-esteem, existential thoughts and the search for meaning. You might also be going through life changes, looking to explore yourself or understand, challenge & change behaviours. I work with all adults and specialise in working with queer communities & those who are neurodivergent. These will be your sessions and I aim to help you work towards whatever goals you have.
Lucas Voclere Counselling & Psychotherapy (Online)
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Queer French Neurodivergent Online Counsellor, I focus on personal development, gender & sexual identity, relationships (including polyamory/ENM/CNM), sexuality, neurodiversity, and cultural identity (including expat life).
Are you struggling with your life, self-esteem or relationships? To understand who you are, your needs, how to cope & improve your life? Do you need an existential therapy balancing survival & aliveness dedicated to help you embrace & empower your unique diversity (Gender, Sexual, Cultural... - Polyamory/ENM/CNM - Neurodiversity - Intersectionality...)? Then you could benefit from the humanistic & integrative therapy I offer with my passion for diversity, belonging, purpose, relationships & personal development. I offer a holding safe space with no judgments and the acceptance of everything you are, have lived & want to achieve.
Queer French Neurodivergent Online Counsellor, I focus on personal development, gender & sexual identity, relationships (including polyamory/ENM/CNM), sexuality, neurodiversity, and cultural identity (including expat life).
Are you struggling with your life, self-esteem or relationships? To understand who you are, your needs, how to cope & improve your life? Do you need an existential therapy balancing survival & aliveness dedicated to help you embrace & empower your unique diversity (Gender, Sexual, Cultural... - Polyamory/ENM/CNM - Neurodiversity - Intersectionality...)? Then you could benefit from the humanistic & integrative therapy I offer with my passion for diversity, belonging, purpose, relationships & personal development. I offer a holding safe space with no judgments and the acceptance of everything you are, have lived & want to achieve.
Lynette Brice (In Safe Hands Counselling)
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1 (Online Only)
I specialise with the LGBT+ community, including their family and friends. I can offer a non-judgemental, gentle, accepting confidential space for you to share your issues and concerns, knowing you will not be rejected or discriminated against. I have lived experience of transgender identities, as my son is transgender. I have witnessed the high mental health conditions, suicidal ideation, including self-harm, and loss faced by LGBT+ individuals that I have counselled, along with the hurdles my son has encountered during his transition. I would like to walk with you along your pathway, and consider myself privileged to do so.
I specialise with the LGBT+ community, including their family and friends. I can offer a non-judgemental, gentle, accepting confidential space for you to share your issues and concerns, knowing you will not be rejected or discriminated against. I have lived experience of transgender identities, as my son is transgender. I have witnessed the high mental health conditions, suicidal ideation, including self-harm, and loss faced by LGBT+ individuals that I have counselled, along with the hurdles my son has encountered during his transition. I would like to walk with you along your pathway, and consider myself privileged to do so.
Zoe Powell Martin
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Zoe - it's a pleasure to meet you. I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy. I provide a warm, safe and nurturing space to support you on your therapeutic journey. As a therapist, I am committed to ensure that your therapy sessions are co-constructed to meet your individual therapeutic needs. Benefitting from shared-decision making, a focus on therapeutic direction as well as empathy, support, compassion and attention, you can expect a uniquely inclusive and collaborative therapeutic experience.
Hello, I'm Zoe - it's a pleasure to meet you. I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy. I provide a warm, safe and nurturing space to support you on your therapeutic journey. As a therapist, I am committed to ensure that your therapy sessions are co-constructed to meet your individual therapeutic needs. Benefitting from shared-decision making, a focus on therapeutic direction as well as empathy, support, compassion and attention, you can expect a uniquely inclusive and collaborative therapeutic experience.
Laura Wells
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
Hello, I am a warm, interactive therapist, keenly interested in finding how I can guide & support you to understand you, your relationships and experiences with increased self-compassion and understanding. The complex human system adapts to the environment from a place of survival and some of those adaptations can result in feelings of being too much or not enough at differing times. My areas of interest are relational & complex trauma, neurodivergence and supporting those from the LGBTQIA+ communities. Whatever your hopes are for therapy, even if you not quite sure what they are, my role is to ensure you feel heard and understood.
Hello, I am a warm, interactive therapist, keenly interested in finding how I can guide & support you to understand you, your relationships and experiences with increased self-compassion and understanding. The complex human system adapts to the environment from a place of survival and some of those adaptations can result in feelings of being too much or not enough at differing times. My areas of interest are relational & complex trauma, neurodivergence and supporting those from the LGBTQIA+ communities. Whatever your hopes are for therapy, even if you not quite sure what they are, my role is to ensure you feel heard and understood.
Addiction Counselling- Karl Markwell
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS1 (Online Only)
Addiction can leave us feeling helpless and hopeless. We look look to rebuild the relationships we have damaged and time that we have lost. Explore the causes and solutions to the behaviours that are causing us and those we love harm. Maybe you're a friend or family member of someone suffering from addiction and would like support and guidance on how best to help your loved one? Maybe you've been to treatment for your addiction and wish to continue the work you have started, or you are in long-term recovery and need the support of someone who understands your past. Perhaps you need a therapist that specialises in LGBTQ+ issues.
Addiction can leave us feeling helpless and hopeless. We look look to rebuild the relationships we have damaged and time that we have lost. Explore the causes and solutions to the behaviours that are causing us and those we love harm. Maybe you're a friend or family member of someone suffering from addiction and would like support and guidance on how best to help your loved one? Maybe you've been to treatment for your addiction and wish to continue the work you have started, or you are in long-term recovery and need the support of someone who understands your past. Perhaps you need a therapist that specialises in LGBTQ+ issues.
Stephen Glover
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bristol BS8
I have a particular interest in issues relating to sexuality and sexual identity and have extensive experience supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hi, I'm Stephen, an experienced counsellor based in Bristol, BS8. I'm currently offering in person sessions in Clifton and sessions online. My goal as a therapist is to help you find new ways to resolve issues and make more informed choices in your life. Sessions offer a safe space to explore your feelings, emotions and thoughts. As an integrative therapist I tailor my approach to each client, drawing on a range of therapeutic approaches and techniques to improve wellbeing and self-awareness. As an integrative therapist I tailor my approach to each client, drawing on a range of approaches and techniques to improve wellbeing.
I have a particular interest in issues relating to sexuality and sexual identity and have extensive experience supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hi, I'm Stephen, an experienced counsellor based in Bristol, BS8. I'm currently offering in person sessions in Clifton and sessions online. My goal as a therapist is to help you find new ways to resolve issues and make more informed choices in your life. Sessions offer a safe space to explore your feelings, emotions and thoughts. As an integrative therapist I tailor my approach to each client, drawing on a range of therapeutic approaches and techniques to improve wellbeing and self-awareness. As an integrative therapist I tailor my approach to each client, drawing on a range of approaches and techniques to improve wellbeing.
Claudia Kent
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS7 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Claudia (she/her), a dedicated Bristol based psychotherapist with a passion for justice and equality. 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 approach therapy with gentleness and a genuine curiosity about the vast spectrum of human experiences. I am here to support you as you journey through your unique story, at your own pace. When you feel stuck or uncertain, I use active, compassionate listening to guide you forward.
Hello, I'm Claudia (she/her), a dedicated Bristol based psychotherapist with a passion for justice and equality. 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 approach therapy with gentleness and a genuine curiosity about the vast spectrum of human experiences. I am here to support you as you journey through your unique story, at your own pace. When you feel stuck or uncertain, I use active, compassionate listening to guide you forward.
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Claire Nunan
Counsellor, MSc, SNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1 (Online Only)
I’m Claire. I am a Senior Accredited Counsellor providing safe and supportive online counselling sessions. I work with a wide range of people but I specialise in working with individuals from the LGBTQ+ and GSRD community, those who are neurodivergent (or think they might be) as well as Millennials and Gen Z-ers.
I’m Claire. I am a Senior Accredited Counsellor providing safe and supportive online counselling sessions. I work with a wide range of people but I specialise in working with individuals from the LGBTQ+ and GSRD community, those who are neurodivergent (or think they might be) as well as Millennials and Gen Z-ers.
Rhodri Karim
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bristol BS2
Gestalt therapy is embodied and relational. My aim is to nourish a felt sense of wholeness for you, and support your growth in the here-and-now. I have expertise in recovery from abuse, gender and sexuality, transitions and crisis, and integration of psychedelic, spiritual and extraordinary experience. 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.
Gestalt therapy is embodied and relational. My aim is to nourish a felt sense of wholeness for you, and support your growth in the here-and-now. I have expertise in recovery from abuse, gender and sexuality, transitions and crisis, and integration of psychedelic, spiritual and extraordinary experience. 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.
Laura Steele
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS8 (Online Only)
I offer contemporary (LGBTQIA+ affirmative, feminist, trauma-informed, heart-centred) Person-Centred Therapy.
Are things in your life feeling overwhelming? Perhaps you have a niggling sense of unease that you can’t ignore. Maybe you are feeling the weight of an old wound, or looking to find your way through a fresh one. Depression, feeling sad, anxiety, stress, grief, bereavement, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, spirituality, gender or sexual identity, including LGBTQIA+ experiences, are just a few of the reasons that you might be seeking psychotherapy. Whatever you are feeling, you are not alone. And whatever brings you to therapy, you are welcome and deserving of the space to talk.
I offer contemporary (LGBTQIA+ affirmative, feminist, trauma-informed, heart-centred) Person-Centred Therapy.
Are things in your life feeling overwhelming? Perhaps you have a niggling sense of unease that you can’t ignore. Maybe you are feeling the weight of an old wound, or looking to find your way through a fresh one. Depression, feeling sad, anxiety, stress, grief, bereavement, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, spirituality, gender or sexual identity, including LGBTQIA+ experiences, are just a few of the reasons that you might be seeking psychotherapy. Whatever you are feeling, you are not alone. And whatever brings you to therapy, you are welcome and deserving of the space to talk.
Kind Humans Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS3 (Online Only)
I use my professional training and my lived experience to support adults with ADHD, LGBTQ+ adults and people going through bereavement.
Feeling like it is all too much? Are you feeling sad, anxious, or simply misunderstood? You are going through life-changing events, or an identity crisis or both, and talking to your friends/family is not enough any more. Maybe it is time to reach out. Talk to a counsellor today to get the support you need and deserve.
I use my professional training and my lived experience to support adults with ADHD, LGBTQ+ adults and people going through bereavement.
Feeling like it is all too much? Are you feeling sad, anxious, or simply misunderstood? You are going through life-changing events, or an identity crisis or both, and talking to your friends/family is not enough any more. Maybe it is time to reach out. Talk to a counsellor today to get the support you need and deserve.
Rachel Kaye
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6 (Online Only)
I specialise in working with LGBTQ+ clients and those who have always felt ‘different’ in some way. Your identity and experiences might make you worry that most therapists out there wouldn’t get you. You might be looking for help because you are experiencing anxiety, relationship challenges, difficulties making decisions or setting boundaries. It might seem like you have too many overwhelming feelings, or rarely any feelings at all. I understand that your identity may not be the reason you’re coming to therapy, but you don’t want to have to spend your session time educating your therapist about it.
I specialise in working with LGBTQ+ clients and those who have always felt ‘different’ in some way. Your identity and experiences might make you worry that most therapists out there wouldn’t get you. You might be looking for help because you are experiencing anxiety, relationship challenges, difficulties making decisions or setting boundaries. It might seem like you have too many overwhelming feelings, or rarely any feelings at all. I understand that your identity may not be the reason you’re coming to therapy, but you don’t want to have to spend your session time educating your therapist about it.
Iulian Chear
Psychotherapist, 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.
Hywel Harrington
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS2
Are you a queer person that needs some support? Do you want to collaborate with a therapist, rather than feeling that they're the expert? Are you looking for someone who understands the complexity of being a queer person in today's socio-political climate?
Are you a queer person that needs some support? Do you want to collaborate with a therapist, rather than feeling that they're the expert? Are you looking for someone who understands the complexity of being a queer person in today's socio-political climate?
Lucy Hensher
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS4 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Lucy. I'm an integrative counsellor which means I will tailor my practice to your young person (ages 9-21 years) to best meet their counselling needs. Is your child struggling with knowing where they fit in? I use a range of interventions and like to work creatively with my clients to help them find comfort to explore who they really are. I find working online gives clients the safety to be themselves in their own space. I have worked with young people for over ten years including as a secondary school teacher before I trained as a counsellor. I have two years of experience working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Hi, I'm Lucy. I'm an integrative counsellor which means I will tailor my practice to your young person (ages 9-21 years) to best meet their counselling needs. Is your child struggling with knowing where they fit in? I use a range of interventions and like to work creatively with my clients to help them find comfort to explore who they really are. I find working online gives clients the safety to be themselves in their own space. I have worked with young people for over ten years including as a secondary school teacher before I trained as a counsellor. I have two years of experience working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Michael F Harris
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS8 (Online Only)
I especially welcome Queer, ENM and s3x +.
I'm Michael Harris, a fully qualified therapist, governed by BACP and NCPS accredited counselling bodies. I offer Life and Wellness therapy in Bristol (and beyond) to individuals, couples, groups and companies. My Bristol Counselling practice (and beyond) is online, or by telephone, across English-speaking time zones, at a schedule that works for you. I help you find your Blazing Soul - balance and direction, clarity and focus, increased confidence and self-esteem, and improved mental, physical and emotional wealth.
I especially welcome Queer, ENM and s3x +.
I'm Michael Harris, a fully qualified therapist, governed by BACP and NCPS accredited counselling bodies. I offer Life and Wellness therapy in Bristol (and beyond) to individuals, couples, groups and companies. My Bristol Counselling practice (and beyond) is online, or by telephone, across English-speaking time zones, at a schedule that works for you. I help you find your Blazing Soul - balance and direction, clarity and focus, increased confidence and self-esteem, and improved mental, physical and emotional wealth.
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.