Marriage Counselling in Christchurch

Photo of Vince Gibbons, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Vince Gibbons
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I offer a free 30 minute phone or video consultation, which may just help you without any more sessions. Many of us have experienced times when our lives can feel complex, isolated, stuck, or even completely overwhelmed. We may find ourselves looking for additional non-judgemental, experienced & professional support outside our friends & family in a caring, comfortable, & calm environment. It can be very helpful to have difficulties explored in confidence, to be listened to compassionately & being properly heard and understood in order to make sense of things, so that our choices can become clearer and our lives more fulfilling.
I offer a free 30 minute phone or video consultation, which may just help you without any more sessions. Many of us have experienced times when our lives can feel complex, isolated, stuck, or even completely overwhelmed. We may find ourselves looking for additional non-judgemental, experienced & professional support outside our friends & family in a caring, comfortable, & calm environment. It can be very helpful to have difficulties explored in confidence, to be listened to compassionately & being properly heard and understood in order to make sense of things, so that our choices can become clearer and our lives more fulfilling.
01483 968676 View 01483 968676
Photo of Jess Townsend, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Jess Townsend
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
I specialise in psychosexual therapy, supporting individuals and couples experiencing compulsive sexual behaviours, problematic pornography use, and relationship challenges.
You may feel stuck in patterns that leave you feeling ashamed, disconnected or out of control. Whether you're struggling with, intimacy, low desire, erectile difficulties, compulsive sexual behaviours such as porn use or anxiety around sex, you're not alone. Together we can make sense of what's happening and help you move towards a more fulfilling, connected life. Alongside psychosexual therapy, I have extensive experience supporting people affected by gambling addiction. This broader understanding of addiction and behavioural patterns informs my work with clients experiencing compulsive sexual behaviours and problematic porn use.
I specialise in psychosexual therapy, supporting individuals and couples experiencing compulsive sexual behaviours, problematic pornography use, and relationship challenges.
You may feel stuck in patterns that leave you feeling ashamed, disconnected or out of control. Whether you're struggling with, intimacy, low desire, erectile difficulties, compulsive sexual behaviours such as porn use or anxiety around sex, you're not alone. Together we can make sense of what's happening and help you move towards a more fulfilling, connected life. Alongside psychosexual therapy, I have extensive experience supporting people affected by gambling addiction. This broader understanding of addiction and behavioural patterns informs my work with clients experiencing compulsive sexual behaviours and problematic porn use.
01202 144001 View 01202 144001
Photo of Nigel Murray, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Nigel Murray
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
I'm Nigel Murray—qualified therapist, trained life coach, and Robbins-Madanes graduate—specialising in helping successful professionals overcome relationship challenges. With a background in the military, engineering, and international leadership, I understand the pressures achievers face. My work empowers high-performing achievers to take control of their emotional lives, rebuild intimacy, and thrive personally, not just professionally. Let’s close the gap from where you are to where you want to be.
I'm Nigel Murray—qualified therapist, trained life coach, and Robbins-Madanes graduate—specialising in helping successful professionals overcome relationship challenges. With a background in the military, engineering, and international leadership, I understand the pressures achievers face. My work empowers high-performing achievers to take control of their emotional lives, rebuild intimacy, and thrive personally, not just professionally. Let’s close the gap from where you are to where you want to be.
01865 411318 View 01865 411318
Photo of Peter Lasek, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Peter Lasek
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
I have worked with adults and couples of all ages and diverse backgrounds, addressing issues such as general anxiety, phobias, OCD, depression, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues (individuals, couples) Over the years I have helped many clients using various therapeutic approaches including psychodynamic therapy, person-centred therapy and CBT.
As an integrative counsellor with 9 years of experience, I have been dedicated to helping clients improving their mental health, building self awareness, improving emotional regulation, enhancing relationships, resolving problems, promoting personal growth and navigate life challenges. My approach involves three stages 1 - Understanding the roots of the problem, identifying the underlaying causes through comprehensive exploration of a client's thoughts, emotions, behaviours and experiences. 2 - Developing coping strategies 3 - Encouraging clients to practice between the sessions which can help promotes long-term change
I have worked with adults and couples of all ages and diverse backgrounds, addressing issues such as general anxiety, phobias, OCD, depression, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues (individuals, couples) Over the years I have helped many clients using various therapeutic approaches including psychodynamic therapy, person-centred therapy and CBT.
As an integrative counsellor with 9 years of experience, I have been dedicated to helping clients improving their mental health, building self awareness, improving emotional regulation, enhancing relationships, resolving problems, promoting personal growth and navigate life challenges. My approach involves three stages 1 - Understanding the roots of the problem, identifying the underlaying causes through comprehensive exploration of a client's thoughts, emotions, behaviours and experiences. 2 - Developing coping strategies 3 - Encouraging clients to practice between the sessions which can help promotes long-term change
01865 951490 View 01865 951490
Photo of Karen Dibbens - Karen Dibbens Counselling Services, Psychotherapist, MBACP
As well as the partners of those with addictions.
I offer a warm, safe and confidential space for you to be listened to. I work at your pace, helping you to explore what you really want, both from the counselling therapy and then concentrating more specifically, on areas of your life that you'd like to change or improve. If you have problems that keep going around and around in your head. If you are unhappy and can't identify why. If you are really struggling to cope with life, then Counselling can offer an amazingly good emotional release. Offering you the comfort of feeling truly listened to, empathised with and not judged.
As well as the partners of those with addictions.
I offer a warm, safe and confidential space for you to be listened to. I work at your pace, helping you to explore what you really want, both from the counselling therapy and then concentrating more specifically, on areas of your life that you'd like to change or improve. If you have problems that keep going around and around in your head. If you are unhappy and can't identify why. If you are really struggling to cope with life, then Counselling can offer an amazingly good emotional release. Offering you the comfort of feeling truly listened to, empathised with and not judged.
01354 705994 View 01354 705994
Photo of Anna Elston, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Anna Elston
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
I offer a friendly, confidential counselling and supervision service both online worldwide and in-person in Christchurch and Bournemouth. I work with international and UK-based treatment facilities as an associate therapist, specialising in areas such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and addictions. I am also Clinical Supervisor to therapists at The Priory. Whether it’s gambling, social media, pornography, compulsive shopping, countless hours spent at work, substance misuse or drinking to cope, all issues stem from unmet needs and emotional pain. This can present as anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviours or low self-esteem.
I offer a friendly, confidential counselling and supervision service both online worldwide and in-person in Christchurch and Bournemouth. I work with international and UK-based treatment facilities as an associate therapist, specialising in areas such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and addictions. I am also Clinical Supervisor to therapists at The Priory. Whether it’s gambling, social media, pornography, compulsive shopping, countless hours spent at work, substance misuse or drinking to cope, all issues stem from unmet needs and emotional pain. This can present as anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviours or low self-esteem.
01865 587121 View 01865 587121
Photo of Janet King, Counsellor, MBACP
Janet King
Counsellor, MBACP
From adults, to children, young people and couples, LGBGTQ+, kink and polyamorous communities .
Are you at a loss in your relationship? has the intimacy and communication gone or would you like to try something new? You may be troubled by sexual behaviours/compulsions? Whatever the issue you are not alone. I am a sex positive psychosexual and relationship specialist and here to help you navigate your way to a better relationship and or sex life.
From adults, to children, young people and couples, LGBGTQ+, kink and polyamorous communities .
Are you at a loss in your relationship? has the intimacy and communication gone or would you like to try something new? You may be troubled by sexual behaviours/compulsions? Whatever the issue you are not alone. I am a sex positive psychosexual and relationship specialist and here to help you navigate your way to a better relationship and or sex life.
01425 209099 View 01425 209099
Photo of Lesley Downs - Lesley Downs Couples Counsellor, Counsellor, MBACP
I specialise in helping couples to re-build, and re-vitalise their relationship, to put the magic back into their marriage or partnership.
I help couples to have the relationships that they dream of. I help my clients to strengthen their relationships, to develop the skills and ability to work together in a more conscious and effective way. I help them to gain awareness and understanding of why relationships don't always go as planned and give them the tools to smooth out the problems.
I specialise in helping couples to re-build, and re-vitalise their relationship, to put the magic back into their marriage or partnership.
I help couples to have the relationships that they dream of. I help my clients to strengthen their relationships, to develop the skills and ability to work together in a more conscious and effective way. I help them to gain awareness and understanding of why relationships don't always go as planned and give them the tools to smooth out the problems.
07427 534886 View 07427 534886
Photo of Paul Allen, Counsellor, MBACP
Paul Allen
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Welcome to my practice in Christchurch where I work with women, men & couples helping them develop their relationships; ease anxiety, tension & depression; manage challenges at home, college & work; address grief, loss, trauma & neglect, & develop confidence & self-esteem.
My approach is to share with you some fundamental principles of self-reflection & their application to challenges so that together we can find a route to a happier you. Working with me will help you understand why you feel the way you do, & what to do to bring about the change you seek.
Welcome to my practice in Christchurch where I work with women, men & couples helping them develop their relationships; ease anxiety, tension & depression; manage challenges at home, college & work; address grief, loss, trauma & neglect, & develop confidence & self-esteem.
My approach is to share with you some fundamental principles of self-reflection & their application to challenges so that together we can find a route to a happier you. Working with me will help you understand why you feel the way you do, & what to do to bring about the change you seek.
01209 704465 View 01209 704465
Photo of Janet King - New Horizons Network, Counsellor, MBACP
New Horizons Network
Counsellor, MBACP
New Horizons Network is a team of counsellors, life coaches and psychotherapists. Being able to explore areas of your life which you may wish to understand, improve on or make changes to can make life better, improve relationships and self esteem. We all deserve the best from life. We believe that coaching, counselling and psychotherapy should be accessible to all. With that in mind we offer these services at varying costs according to the level of experience of our network of practitioners. Contact us for a discussion on how we can help you with your needs and put you in touch with the best person for you.
New Horizons Network is a team of counsellors, life coaches and psychotherapists. Being able to explore areas of your life which you may wish to understand, improve on or make changes to can make life better, improve relationships and self esteem. We all deserve the best from life. We believe that coaching, counselling and psychotherapy should be accessible to all. With that in mind we offer these services at varying costs according to the level of experience of our network of practitioners. Contact us for a discussion on how we can help you with your needs and put you in touch with the best person for you.
01425 206739 View 01425 206739
Photo of Abigail Baker, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Abigail Baker
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Perhaps you find yourself putting everyone else's needs before your own, struggling with self-doubt, feeling overwhelmed by emotions, or repeating patterns in relationships that leave you feeling hurt or disconnected. You may be carrying experiences from the past that continue to affect how you see yourself and others. I work with adults seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships, helping them move towards greater self-awareness, self-compassion and emotional wellbeing.
Perhaps you find yourself putting everyone else's needs before your own, struggling with self-doubt, feeling overwhelmed by emotions, or repeating patterns in relationships that leave you feeling hurt or disconnected. You may be carrying experiences from the past that continue to affect how you see yourself and others. I work with adults seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships, helping them move towards greater self-awareness, self-compassion and emotional wellbeing.
01202 144822 View 01202 144822
Photo of Andrew Christopher Wright, Psychotherapist, MRes, HCPC-Art Therap.
Andrew Christopher Wright
Psychotherapist, MRes, HCPC-Art Therap.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or not yourself? You don’t have to navigate it on your own. I help you gain clarity, manage your emotions, and create lasting change. Together, we focus on three key shifts: 1. Understanding what’s really going on We uncover the deeper patterns shaping your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. 2. Responding differently You’ll gain practical tools to manage 3. Creating lasting change Applying what you learn. I’m an internationally recognised psychotherapist and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, trained at Goldsmiths, University of London, with 20+ years’ experience across London, Singapore, and Dubai.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or not yourself? You don’t have to navigate it on your own. I help you gain clarity, manage your emotions, and create lasting change. Together, we focus on three key shifts: 1. Understanding what’s really going on We uncover the deeper patterns shaping your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. 2. Responding differently You’ll gain practical tools to manage 3. Creating lasting change Applying what you learn. I’m an internationally recognised psychotherapist and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, trained at Goldsmiths, University of London, with 20+ years’ experience across London, Singapore, and Dubai.
01425 209940 View 01425 209940
Photo of Andrea Karina Johnstone, Counsellor, DCounsPsych
Andrea Karina Johnstone
Counsellor, DCounsPsych
The main issues I can help you with is to have a better relationship with yourself(and partners) , to help improve your self esteem and lower Anxiety.
is life very overwhelming and challenging at times? Do you feel sometimes out of control and lost? Do you suffer from stress.? I can help you find place within yourself which is untouched by the chaos. Within our therapeutic relationship, we explore together how life is for you at your own pace. I provide a confidential, non-judgemental safe space. I will help you develop your relationship with yourself, to raise your self-esteem and well being. You are the master of your own ship, I will work with you to find your way, and help you live your best life.
The main issues I can help you with is to have a better relationship with yourself(and partners) , to help improve your self esteem and lower Anxiety.
is life very overwhelming and challenging at times? Do you feel sometimes out of control and lost? Do you suffer from stress.? I can help you find place within yourself which is untouched by the chaos. Within our therapeutic relationship, we explore together how life is for you at your own pace. I provide a confidential, non-judgemental safe space. I will help you develop your relationship with yourself, to raise your self-esteem and well being. You are the master of your own ship, I will work with you to find your way, and help you live your best life.
01202 057101 View 01202 057101
Photo of Sally Coombe, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Sally Coombe
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
I work with adolescents(face to face Dorset and Hampshire), adults and couples(online).
You may be reading this as you’re finding things in life difficult at the moment. You may be struggling with thoughts or certain circumstances, maybe you can’t pin point what you’re going through; you just know you need some support. I offer you a safe and non judgmental space to explore what is happening, and help you to understand why you’re feeling the way you are. I personalise my work with you and provide tools to support you to work through the difficulties you are experiencing. You may be searching for the right counsellor, or you may be the parent/carer of a young person who needs support.
I work with adolescents(face to face Dorset and Hampshire), adults and couples(online).
You may be reading this as you’re finding things in life difficult at the moment. You may be struggling with thoughts or certain circumstances, maybe you can’t pin point what you’re going through; you just know you need some support. I offer you a safe and non judgmental space to explore what is happening, and help you to understand why you’re feeling the way you are. I personalise my work with you and provide tools to support you to work through the difficulties you are experiencing. You may be searching for the right counsellor, or you may be the parent/carer of a young person who needs support.
01737 949810 View 01737 949810
Photo of Lisa Rose Dean - Lisa Rose Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Lisa Rose Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Lisa — and if you're here, you're probably going through something that feels heavy, confusing, or just really hard to carry on your own. Whatever's brought you here, you don't have to keep carrying it alone. I offer a calm, welcoming space where there's no rush and no judgement. Just time and room to talk, to breathe, and to start making sense of what's going on for you. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, carrying grief or loss, working through past trauma, or finding relationships difficult, including the one you have with yourself, I'm here to help you find some clarity and a way forward.
Hi, I'm Lisa — and if you're here, you're probably going through something that feels heavy, confusing, or just really hard to carry on your own. Whatever's brought you here, you don't have to keep carrying it alone. I offer a calm, welcoming space where there's no rush and no judgement. Just time and room to talk, to breathe, and to start making sense of what's going on for you. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, carrying grief or loss, working through past trauma, or finding relationships difficult, including the one you have with yourself, I'm here to help you find some clarity and a way forward.
01202 037127 View 01202 037127
Photo of Jo Sharkey, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Jo Sharkey
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
I offer counselling support to individuals, couples, children, young people and families, assessing each person’s situation, offering a calm, non-judgemental and confidential environment.
I am an accredited, integrative therapeutic counsellor, finding that working in this way, gives uniqueness with each client, connecting in a way that is best suited to them as an individual. I have extensive experience, working with a variety of clients, of all ages.
I offer counselling support to individuals, couples, children, young people and families, assessing each person’s situation, offering a calm, non-judgemental and confidential environment.
I am an accredited, integrative therapeutic counsellor, finding that working in this way, gives uniqueness with each client, connecting in a way that is best suited to them as an individual. I have extensive experience, working with a variety of clients, of all ages.
01202 013935 View 01202 013935
Photo of Claire Alexandra Ingram - Liberty Coastal Therapy, Psychotherapist, MSc, BACP
Liberty Coastal Therapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, BACP
Serves Area
CPD: Couples training, Personality Disorders, DID, Trauma and Gender Diversity.
Hello, I'm Claire. I am an experienced Psychotherapist, working on-line and face to face from my therapy rooms in Southbourne. There are many different reasons why you may be looking for change in your life. For example, you may be suffering from day-to-day anxiety, or perhaps you have experienced traumatic life events leading to depression, addictive behaviours or problems in your relationships. You may not even be sure why you feel this way. At times like these it can help to talk to a professional who can work alongside you to help you achieve understanding and clarity, enabling you to make the changes you want in your life.
CPD: Couples training, Personality Disorders, DID, Trauma and Gender Diversity.
Hello, I'm Claire. I am an experienced Psychotherapist, working on-line and face to face from my therapy rooms in Southbourne. There are many different reasons why you may be looking for change in your life. For example, you may be suffering from day-to-day anxiety, or perhaps you have experienced traumatic life events leading to depression, addictive behaviours or problems in your relationships. You may not even be sure why you feel this way. At times like these it can help to talk to a professional who can work alongside you to help you achieve understanding and clarity, enabling you to make the changes you want in your life.
01725 538784 View 01725 538784
Photo of Carmel Davis-McCluskie, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Carmel Davis-McCluskie
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
I offer 1-1, Couple, Group as well as family therapy in person at my Bournemouth practice or Online - Organisation's too.
I've been a practicing as a Counsellor & Psychotherapist for over 20 yrs now. Over the years I've worked with a diverse range of clients, coming with a multitude of different reasons. I offer a safe, confidential space, acknowledging the importance of building a good rapport in order for therapy to work.
I offer 1-1, Couple, Group as well as family therapy in person at my Bournemouth practice or Online - Organisation's too.
I've been a practicing as a Counsellor & Psychotherapist for over 20 yrs now. Over the years I've worked with a diverse range of clients, coming with a multitude of different reasons. I offer a safe, confidential space, acknowledging the importance of building a good rapport in order for therapy to work.
01202 037558 View 01202 037558
Photo of Abby Orchard, Counsellor, MBACP
Abby Orchard
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with couples and individuals on issues from infidelity, life stages, anxiety, depression to sexual trauma and PTSD.
Do you feel you could develop your potential further? Do you feel anxious or depressed or suffer from PTSD? Is your relationship suffering? Are you finding difficult to manage stressors? Is this getting in the way of you achieving your goals and the quality of life and relationship you desire? I can help!
I work with couples and individuals on issues from infidelity, life stages, anxiety, depression to sexual trauma and PTSD.
Do you feel you could develop your potential further? Do you feel anxious or depressed or suffer from PTSD? Is your relationship suffering? Are you finding difficult to manage stressors? Is this getting in the way of you achieving your goals and the quality of life and relationship you desire? I can help!
01202 125945 View 01202 125945
Photo of Dr Wayne Adlem - Relink Therapy - (psychosexual/sex) Bournemouth, Psychologist
Wayne has worked with many individuals and couples overcome issues of an intimate and personal nature to find fulfillment in their lives
Are you experiencing relationship or sexual issues that are causing problems for your life? Relationship issues, Marital problems, Communication issues, Sexual issues related to poor health, Would you benefit from Coaching/Tuition, Body image issues, Issues with self-esteem, Sexual Dysfunction, Past Traumas, Difficulties with sex, Feel a mental block?
Wayne has worked with many individuals and couples overcome issues of an intimate and personal nature to find fulfillment in their lives
Are you experiencing relationship or sexual issues that are causing problems for your life? Relationship issues, Marital problems, Communication issues, Sexual issues related to poor health, Would you benefit from Coaching/Tuition, Body image issues, Issues with self-esteem, Sexual Dysfunction, Past Traumas, Difficulties with sex, Feel a mental block?
01202 668800 View 01202 668800

See more therapy options for Christchurch

FAQ - Marriage Counselling
What issues does marriage counselling help with?
Marriage counselling can address common relationship concerns, including ongoing conflict, communication challenges, emotional distance, or difficulty making decisions together. It may also be helpful for couples who are not currently experiencing major problems but want to prepare for future life changes. For more specific concerns affecting one individual in the relationship, such as trauma, depression, or significant substance use concerns, individual therapy may be more appropriate than marriage counselling.

When is the right time to start marriage counselling?
There is no single “right” time to start marriage counselling, but certain signs may suggest that counselling could be helpful. For example, a couple may benefit from counselling if many conversations end in conflict, if negative interactions are becoming more frequent, or if relationship stress is affecting other areas of life, such as sleep, work, parenting, or friendships. Some couples also seek counselling proactively. Premarital counselling, for instance, allows couples to discuss communication styles, finances, family dynamics, and future goals before getting married. Other couples may start counselling before a major life change, such as becoming parents, relocating, or navigating a stressful career transition.

Is marriage counselling effective if only one partner wants to go?
Marriage counselling may still help even if one partner is more hesitant to attend, as long as both people are ultimately willing to participate in sessions. Once counselling is underway, the more hesitant partner may become more open to sessions that can strengthen the relationship and build coping skills and communication strategies. If one partner refuses to attend, individual therapy may still help the other partner understand their needs, set boundaries, and decide how to approach the relationship.

Is online marriage counselling as effective as in-person?
There are differing opinions on the best format for marriage counselling. While some studies show that online marriage counselling can be as effective as in-person counselling, some argue that in-person counselling is more effective because it allows the therapist to better pick up on context and body language cues. In addition, in-person counselling may be a better fit for couples who are working through high-conflict issues. Ultimately, the “best” format depends on the couple’s specific needs and concerns.

What is faith-based marriage counselling and how is it different?
Faith-based marriage counselling incorporates a couple’s religious or spiritual beliefs into counselling. It may be a good fit for couples who want to discuss their relationship, values, and marriage within the context of their faith. For example, Christian marriage counselling may appeal to couples who want a counsellor familiar with Christian beliefs about marriage. Other forms of faith-based counselling may incorporate Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, or other religious perspectives into sessions.

How much does marriage counselling cost and is it covered by insurance?
Marriage counselling is usually paid for privately in Great Britain, rather than through the NHS, and sessions often cost around £60 to £120 or more. Fees depend on location, with costs generally higher in the London area, as well as counsellor experience, session length, and practice setting. However, lower-cost options may be available through sliding scale fees, which adjust the cost of counselling based on income, as well as through community clinics or non-profit organisations that offer reduced-cost services.