LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Cheltenham

Photo of Laura Seymour, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Laura Seymour
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
I am a queer and neurodivergent counsellor, experienced at working with people from the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities.
Supporting neurodivergent clients well is very important to me. I regularly undergo training on as many aspects of counselling and psychotherapy as I can, with a particular interest in bibliotherapy (using books, words, and stories for therapy) and writing for wellbeing. Visit my website for more details.
I am a queer and neurodivergent counsellor, experienced at working with people from the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities.
Supporting neurodivergent clients well is very important to me. I regularly undergo training on as many aspects of counselling and psychotherapy as I can, with a particular interest in bibliotherapy (using books, words, and stories for therapy) and writing for wellbeing. Visit my website for more details.
01372 233835 View 01372 233835
Photo of Dr Iulian Chear, Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Dr Iulian Chear
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Online Only
My work is informed by existential philosophy, phenomenology, critical thinking (Marxism, psychoanalysis, feminism, queer theory, post-colonialism), artistic movements (surrealism, symbolism, dada), and the inspiration they provide for understanding everyday life struggles.
As an LGBTQAI+ individual do you feel that you can’t find your own place, or are you unhappy with where you are in your life? Maybe you are feeling misunderstood, unable to connect with others, or simply struggling with the dating scene or the community? Sometimes having a gender/sexual identity comes with pressures to conform to a specific body image, to femininity/masculinity ideals, and with certain sexual expectations that don’t mirror your own preferences or needs. Or perhaps there’s something important about yourself that has been lost?
My work is informed by existential philosophy, phenomenology, critical thinking (Marxism, psychoanalysis, feminism, queer theory, post-colonialism), artistic movements (surrealism, symbolism, dada), and the inspiration they provide for understanding everyday life struggles.
As an LGBTQAI+ individual do you feel that you can’t find your own place, or are you unhappy with where you are in your life? Maybe you are feeling misunderstood, unable to connect with others, or simply struggling with the dating scene or the community? Sometimes having a gender/sexual identity comes with pressures to conform to a specific body image, to femininity/masculinity ideals, and with certain sexual expectations that don’t mirror your own preferences or needs. Or perhaps there’s something important about yourself that has been lost?
0117 463 7137 View 0117 463 7137
Photo of Abi Howells, Counsellor, BACP
Abi Howells
Counsellor, BACP
I specialise in working with young adults aged 18-30 who want to work through a difficult time, or who want to learn more about themselves and gain a deeper level of self awareness. I utilise creative methods and alternative ways of working if this is something you are interested in. All sessions are completely tailored to your needs/ interests and I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for you to explore anything that you want to work through.
I specialise in working with young adults aged 18-30 who want to work through a difficult time, or who want to learn more about themselves and gain a deeper level of self awareness. I utilise creative methods and alternative ways of working if this is something you are interested in. All sessions are completely tailored to your needs/ interests and I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for you to explore anything that you want to work through.
01452 229525 View 01452 229525
Photo of Max Knowles, Counsellor, BACP
Max Knowles
Counsellor, BACP
2 Endorsed
Hi, I am Max ( Qualified Person Centred Therapist) and I know from my own experience, that life can sometimes be a struggle. Events and experiences can leave us feeling lost, isolated or directionless . At such times, reaching out for help can feel very difficult and it is important that your search leads you to someone you feel you can trust . Counselling is an opportunity to explore thoughts and feelings ,which might be affecting many different areas of your life. With careful and empathic listening, I endeavour to support you in finding your own way through what is often too complex and difficult to manage alone.
Hi, I am Max ( Qualified Person Centred Therapist) and I know from my own experience, that life can sometimes be a struggle. Events and experiences can leave us feeling lost, isolated or directionless . At such times, reaching out for help can feel very difficult and it is important that your search leads you to someone you feel you can trust . Counselling is an opportunity to explore thoughts and feelings ,which might be affecting many different areas of your life. With careful and empathic listening, I endeavour to support you in finding your own way through what is often too complex and difficult to manage alone.
01242 903640 View 01242 903640
Photo of Jaimie Marc Cahlil - Jaimie Cahlil, Psychotherapist, PsychD, MUKCP
Jaimie Cahlil
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
Here you are, searching for the right therapy and therapist...for you. Transpersonal (down-to-earth spiritual) psychotherapy receives you as you are, among us all, all of us held gently within the transformative context of oneness. Right now you may be struggling with uncomfortable or panicky feelings and thoughts, or a sense of disconnection and isolation. (Or not!) ...However, with your relationship with your self at core, you may also feel drawn to develop or deepen your sense of 'home' within your own being...in a warmingly empowering process (fine-tuned to you) of deeply calming relaxing self-awareness and spiritual awakening.
Here you are, searching for the right therapy and therapist...for you. Transpersonal (down-to-earth spiritual) psychotherapy receives you as you are, among us all, all of us held gently within the transformative context of oneness. Right now you may be struggling with uncomfortable or panicky feelings and thoughts, or a sense of disconnection and isolation. (Or not!) ...However, with your relationship with your self at core, you may also feel drawn to develop or deepen your sense of 'home' within your own being...in a warmingly empowering process (fine-tuned to you) of deeply calming relaxing self-awareness and spiritual awakening.
01242 903238 View 01242 903238
Photo of Susannah Newell, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Susannah Newell
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
Hello. As an experienced psychotherapist, I can help you manage current life challenges like sudden changes or losses; anxiety; relationship issues; bereavement; loneliness; parenthood; depression or past experiences intruding on your present. Sometimes clients come with a more general sense of unfulfilment or want to know themselves better. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to share your load, rather than carrying it alone. Psychotherapy offers vital connection, support and opportunity to work things through with an empathic, trained professional totally unconnected to your life.
Hello. As an experienced psychotherapist, I can help you manage current life challenges like sudden changes or losses; anxiety; relationship issues; bereavement; loneliness; parenthood; depression or past experiences intruding on your present. Sometimes clients come with a more general sense of unfulfilment or want to know themselves better. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to share your load, rather than carrying it alone. Psychotherapy offers vital connection, support and opportunity to work things through with an empathic, trained professional totally unconnected to your life.
01242 650306 View 01242 650306
Photo of Anne Coats, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc.
Anne Coats
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc.
I am a fully qualified and registered psychotherapist and supervisor working with adults, adolescents, relationships and couples. Sometimes life can be challenging, we can feel lost or stuck or that we have no control over what is happening. Counselling can provide vital relief. If you suffer with depression, anxiety,relationship issues, grief, trauma or anger management, I am hear to support you. I offer a warm, reflective, non-judgemental and confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences. I will provide the compassionate support you need to find effective solutions to any issue you may have. ​
I am a fully qualified and registered psychotherapist and supervisor working with adults, adolescents, relationships and couples. Sometimes life can be challenging, we can feel lost or stuck or that we have no control over what is happening. Counselling can provide vital relief. If you suffer with depression, anxiety,relationship issues, grief, trauma or anger management, I am hear to support you. I offer a warm, reflective, non-judgemental and confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences. I will provide the compassionate support you need to find effective solutions to any issue you may have. ​
01242 903657 View 01242 903657
Photo of Sarah Bolton-Locke, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Sarah Bolton-Locke
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
I have a face to face and online counselling practice based in Cheltenham and Gloucester, offering warm and accepting therapy for adults and children. Having a non-judgmental and safe space will give you the opportunity to explore whatever you may be struggling with.
I have a face to face and online counselling practice based in Cheltenham and Gloucester, offering warm and accepting therapy for adults and children. Having a non-judgmental and safe space will give you the opportunity to explore whatever you may be struggling with.
01452 934579 View 01452 934579
Photo of Claire King, Counsellor, MBACP
Claire King
Counsellor, MBACP
Counselling for adults, young people 13+ and couples in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire with fully qualified, experienced counsellor. ​Counselling can help with difficult feelings like anxiety, depression, grief, anger, loneliness and low self-esteem. Counselling can help you cope better with issues such as loss, relationship difficulties, stress, past traumas. Counselling can help you learn about yourself- your wants and needs – and how to meet them. ​Counselling for couples can help you remember what is right with your relationship, find ways to communicate more effectively and work together on what is difficult
Counselling for adults, young people 13+ and couples in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire with fully qualified, experienced counsellor. ​Counselling can help with difficult feelings like anxiety, depression, grief, anger, loneliness and low self-esteem. Counselling can help you cope better with issues such as loss, relationship difficulties, stress, past traumas. Counselling can help you learn about yourself- your wants and needs – and how to meet them. ​Counselling for couples can help you remember what is right with your relationship, find ways to communicate more effectively and work together on what is difficult
01242 903215 View 01242 903215
Photo of Julie Ingram, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Julie Ingram
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Hello, and welcome to my page. I have been qualified as a psychotherapist and supervisor for over 18 years, with previous experience in mental health and Social Work Management. I work with adults, children, adolescents and have expertise in working with family issues. I can help with a wide range of matters including: anxiety and depression, self esteem, family difficulties, relationship issues, Childhood abuse, Childhood neglect, Life threatening events, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and trauma.
Hello, and welcome to my page. I have been qualified as a psychotherapist and supervisor for over 18 years, with previous experience in mental health and Social Work Management. I work with adults, children, adolescents and have expertise in working with family issues. I can help with a wide range of matters including: anxiety and depression, self esteem, family difficulties, relationship issues, Childhood abuse, Childhood neglect, Life threatening events, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and trauma.
01981 200129 View 01981 200129
Photo of Jen Edwards, Counsellor, MBACP
Jen Edwards
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
I recognise that life is a journey that can sometimes be a struggle. Life in this modern world is often chaotic, stressful and moves at such a fast pace, yet our reptilian brains are still designed to deal with cave man threats. This can lead to our bodies being flooded with fight, flight or freeze responses. In time these can build and lead to conditions such as anxiety, depression and low level trauma if not dealt with correctly. Having the support to help you through is not always easy to find.
I recognise that life is a journey that can sometimes be a struggle. Life in this modern world is often chaotic, stressful and moves at such a fast pace, yet our reptilian brains are still designed to deal with cave man threats. This can lead to our bodies being flooded with fight, flight or freeze responses. In time these can build and lead to conditions such as anxiety, depression and low level trauma if not dealt with correctly. Having the support to help you through is not always easy to find.
01242 903218 View 01242 903218
Photo of Sarah Bolton - Essential Space, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Essential Space
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
We are a low-cost (sliding scale depending on circumstances) counselling service that supports adults, children, and young people living in Gloucestershire. We provide an inclusive, easy-to-access service, where the fee you pay is an amount that considers your circumstances on a sliding scale between £15.00-£60.00. Deciding to access counselling can be a difficult step. Our waiting times are short, as we are a good-sized team, with only around a week to wait from meeting you arrange the sessions starting.
We are a low-cost (sliding scale depending on circumstances) counselling service that supports adults, children, and young people living in Gloucestershire. We provide an inclusive, easy-to-access service, where the fee you pay is an amount that considers your circumstances on a sliding scale between £15.00-£60.00. Deciding to access counselling can be a difficult step. Our waiting times are short, as we are a good-sized team, with only around a week to wait from meeting you arrange the sessions starting.
01452 923126 View 01452 923126
Photo of Dr Janette Rankine, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, CPsychol
Dr Janette Rankine
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, CPsychol
Hi, Are you are looking for someone who will really listen to you without judgement? I am a fully qualified HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist. I provide a safe space to be heard, in a peacfeul haven in central Cheltenham. I offer Intergrative Counselling and Psychological Therapy for all kinds of distress, conflict or confusion. We all go through tough times when we need someone to tell our story to. Oftentimes, just sharing it, without fear of consequencies is all that is required to start a healing journey.
Hi, Are you are looking for someone who will really listen to you without judgement? I am a fully qualified HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist. I provide a safe space to be heard, in a peacfeul haven in central Cheltenham. I offer Intergrative Counselling and Psychological Therapy for all kinds of distress, conflict or confusion. We all go through tough times when we need someone to tell our story to. Oftentimes, just sharing it, without fear of consequencies is all that is required to start a healing journey.
01242 384074 View 01242 384074
Photo of Amy Haire - AHW counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
AHW counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Hiya, I'm Amy. I believe counselling can be a powerful resource for everyone, though I know that reaching out can sometimes feel a bit daunting. That’s why I offer a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where you’re free to share what’s on your mind, entirely at your own pace. Counselling isn’t about quick fixes or easy answers, it’s about making space for the complex, sometimes confusing, human stuff. Counselling can be hard, I won't pretend that it is not without discomfort. The power in it is that when you understand and grow in how you relate to your own self, you can extend that out to the benefit of yourself and others.
Hiya, I'm Amy. I believe counselling can be a powerful resource for everyone, though I know that reaching out can sometimes feel a bit daunting. That’s why I offer a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where you’re free to share what’s on your mind, entirely at your own pace. Counselling isn’t about quick fixes or easy answers, it’s about making space for the complex, sometimes confusing, human stuff. Counselling can be hard, I won't pretend that it is not without discomfort. The power in it is that when you understand and grow in how you relate to your own self, you can extend that out to the benefit of yourself and others.
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Photo of Rachel Hunter - Rachel Hunter Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Rachel Hunter Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
LGBTQIA + and all clients warmly welcomed.
Special areas of interest are working with those suffering with anxiety and depression, bereavement and loss, anger, relationship breakdown and divorce, low self esteem and LGBTQIA+ related struggles. Zoom and telephone counselling is a way to receive the help that you need from the comfort of your own home, car (or even in the park with headphones).
LGBTQIA + and all clients warmly welcomed.
Special areas of interest are working with those suffering with anxiety and depression, bereavement and loss, anger, relationship breakdown and divorce, low self esteem and LGBTQIA+ related struggles. Zoom and telephone counselling is a way to receive the help that you need from the comfort of your own home, car (or even in the park with headphones).
01242 395316 View 01242 395316
Photo of Matthew Smith, Counsellor, MBACP
Matthew Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Life can be hard at times, and you may find yourself struggling with painful emotions, anxiety, or a difficult relationship with yourself. You might feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure why things feel so heavy, even if you can’t point to one clear reason. People come to see me for many different reasons, but often with a shared sense that something in their inner world or relationships has become painful or hard to navigate alone. I aim to offer a calm, thoughtful space where we can slow things down, make sense of what’s going on, and explore your experience at a pace that feels right for you.
Life can be hard at times, and you may find yourself struggling with painful emotions, anxiety, or a difficult relationship with yourself. You might feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure why things feel so heavy, even if you can’t point to one clear reason. People come to see me for many different reasons, but often with a shared sense that something in their inner world or relationships has become painful or hard to navigate alone. I aim to offer a calm, thoughtful space where we can slow things down, make sense of what’s going on, and explore your experience at a pace that feels right for you.
01453 703534 View 01453 703534
Photo of Elizabeth Shaw, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Elizabeth Shaw
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Life is often confusing, painful and overwhelming.  Therapy can provide a safe space to explore these feelings and manage them. Hi I’m Liz. I am a Relational Integrative Psychotherapist.  I can draw on a variety of therapeutic styles to meet your unique needs. I aim to provide a supportive, empathic and non-judgemental relationship, through which you can better understand yourself. I am here to listen. If you choose to call you can expect an initial consultation in which we will establish what you would like to address and whether you would like to work with me.
Life is often confusing, painful and overwhelming.  Therapy can provide a safe space to explore these feelings and manage them. Hi I’m Liz. I am a Relational Integrative Psychotherapist.  I can draw on a variety of therapeutic styles to meet your unique needs. I aim to provide a supportive, empathic and non-judgemental relationship, through which you can better understand yourself. I am here to listen. If you choose to call you can expect an initial consultation in which we will establish what you would like to address and whether you would like to work with me.
01242 503626 View 01242 503626
Photo of Byron Lange, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Byron Lange
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Online Only
Struggles with distress, rumination, self-criticism, destructive and repetitive behaviours you don’t want, relationship difficulties and loss are experiences that I believe will impact all of us over the course of our lives. Finding it hard to have clarity, understanding and compassion for yourself can also make it hard to reach out to others. It can also sometimes be difficult for those closest to us to respond in a helpful way.
Struggles with distress, rumination, self-criticism, destructive and repetitive behaviours you don’t want, relationship difficulties and loss are experiences that I believe will impact all of us over the course of our lives. Finding it hard to have clarity, understanding and compassion for yourself can also make it hard to reach out to others. It can also sometimes be difficult for those closest to us to respond in a helpful way.
023 9433 1695 View 023 9433 1695
Photo of Dr Jane Spurr, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Jane Spurr
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Do you ever feel that your life could be better? Maybe there is not enough satisfaction and joy in your life, maybe you feel stuck, perhaps because you have been unable to create the life you want, or because relationships, either at home or work, seem to repeat in unhelpful ways without resolution. Sometimes these circumstances can interact with anxiety, depression or other difficulties, causing an unhelpful spiral which leave you feeling even less able to make positive change. Contacting a therapist may feel difficult, but it can be the first step towards understanding the blocks preventing you from living the life you want.
Do you ever feel that your life could be better? Maybe there is not enough satisfaction and joy in your life, maybe you feel stuck, perhaps because you have been unable to create the life you want, or because relationships, either at home or work, seem to repeat in unhelpful ways without resolution. Sometimes these circumstances can interact with anxiety, depression or other difficulties, causing an unhelpful spiral which leave you feeling even less able to make positive change. Contacting a therapist may feel difficult, but it can be the first step towards understanding the blocks preventing you from living the life you want.
01242 506292 View 01242 506292
Photo of Saskia Penrose-van Beers
Saskia Penrose-van Beers
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I’m an experienced CBT therapist supporting adults and teenagers (11+) who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or unsure of what’s next. I offer a structured yet flexible space where we focus on what matters most to you—whether it’s managing anxiety, low mood, ADHD, trauma, or big life decisions. My approach is compassionate and practical, helping you understand patterns, build coping tools, and feel more confident navigating daily life. Sessions are tailored to your pace and needs, with warmth, creativity, and humour to make the process feel supportive and collaborative. Whatever you’re facing, we’ll work through it together.
I’m an experienced CBT therapist supporting adults and teenagers (11+) who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or unsure of what’s next. I offer a structured yet flexible space where we focus on what matters most to you—whether it’s managing anxiety, low mood, ADHD, trauma, or big life decisions. My approach is compassionate and practical, helping you understand patterns, build coping tools, and feel more confident navigating daily life. Sessions are tailored to your pace and needs, with warmth, creativity, and humour to make the process feel supportive and collaborative. Whatever you’re facing, we’ll work through it together.
015242 36646 View 015242 36646

See more therapy options for Cheltenham

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.