LGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling in Congleton

Photo of Oliver North Tweats - Oliver North Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Oliver North Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Why do you feel anxious or guilty when nothing is wrong? Inexplicably tense around certain people, or suddenly flat and stripped of motivation? You've probably got so good at performing that those around you think you're thriving, but inside you're holding your breath. Managing this constant, silent exhaustion is draining. It can be a lonely place to live, trapped in cycles of overthinking and waiting for things to either work out, or fall apart. Working online gives us the flexibility to slow things down from the comfort of your own space; together, we can work out what's going on and safely resolve the patterns keeping you stuck.
Why do you feel anxious or guilty when nothing is wrong? Inexplicably tense around certain people, or suddenly flat and stripped of motivation? You've probably got so good at performing that those around you think you're thriving, but inside you're holding your breath. Managing this constant, silent exhaustion is draining. It can be a lonely place to live, trapped in cycles of overthinking and waiting for things to either work out, or fall apart. Working online gives us the flexibility to slow things down from the comfort of your own space; together, we can work out what's going on and safely resolve the patterns keeping you stuck.
01270 433930 View 01270 433930
Photo of Ronan Carolan - The MindWell Clinic, Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
The MindWell Clinic
Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
anxiety & depression, confidence & self-esteem Issues, work-based stress & burnout as well as sleep problems, trauma, adopting healthier lifestyles and LGBT issues.
I combine hypnotherapy with psychotherapeutic techniques to first of all help my clients feel a greater sense of calmness and relaxation. Using a range of psychotherapeutic techniques, we together explore some of the underlying thinking patterns, feelings, past experiences and beliefs that may help explain why you are struggling in an aspect of your life.
anxiety & depression, confidence & self-esteem Issues, work-based stress & burnout as well as sleep problems, trauma, adopting healthier lifestyles and LGBT issues.
I combine hypnotherapy with psychotherapeutic techniques to first of all help my clients feel a greater sense of calmness and relaxation. Using a range of psychotherapeutic techniques, we together explore some of the underlying thinking patterns, feelings, past experiences and beliefs that may help explain why you are struggling in an aspect of your life.
01625 926622 View 01625 926622
Photo of Patricia Yvonne Taylor, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Snr. Accred
Patricia Yvonne Taylor
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Snr. Accred
Congleton CW12
My counselling model is Person-Centred. Many years experience enables me to offer effective individualised, psychological treatment. I treat most emotional disorders and provide a neutral ground My focus is to individuals heal, energise, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, understanding you and your issues to customise a treatment plan which meets your needs. I will be there for you every step of your journey. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
My counselling model is Person-Centred. Many years experience enables me to offer effective individualised, psychological treatment. I treat most emotional disorders and provide a neutral ground My focus is to individuals heal, energise, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, understanding you and your issues to customise a treatment plan which meets your needs. I will be there for you every step of your journey. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
07702 651156 View 07702 651156
Photo of Kay Glover - Kay Glover Counselling and Supervision, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Kay Glover Counselling and Supervision
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Congleton CW12
With over 20 years' experience as a counsellor, I can offer a calm, safe space for you to explore your feelings and begin to make changes toward the life you would like. If you feel anxious, depressed, are suffering from PTSD or feel suicidal, have general low mood or feel that the time is right to seek support please contact me for an initial chat. I work with a person-centred approach, integrating other ways of working to suit your needs. I offer a free consultation so that you can find out if you would like to begin your journey with me. Free parking and disabled access. Face to face, telephone or online appointments.
With over 20 years' experience as a counsellor, I can offer a calm, safe space for you to explore your feelings and begin to make changes toward the life you would like. If you feel anxious, depressed, are suffering from PTSD or feel suicidal, have general low mood or feel that the time is right to seek support please contact me for an initial chat. I work with a person-centred approach, integrating other ways of working to suit your needs. I offer a free consultation so that you can find out if you would like to begin your journey with me. Free parking and disabled access. Face to face, telephone or online appointments.
01782 493932 View 01782 493932
Photo of Linda Szekely, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Linda Szekely
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Serves Area
Hello. My name is Linda and I am a qualified supervisor and Psychotherapist. I understand how hard it is to reach out for help, but through support and guidance things can change. If you are struggling to come to terms with something, or feel stressed, anxious, or feel like you are facing a challenge that you need support with, then please do get in touch. I have over 10 years’ experience of working with children, teenagers, and adults, with a variety of difficulties.
Hello. My name is Linda and I am a qualified supervisor and Psychotherapist. I understand how hard it is to reach out for help, but through support and guidance things can change. If you are struggling to come to terms with something, or feel stressed, anxious, or feel like you are facing a challenge that you need support with, then please do get in touch. I have over 10 years’ experience of working with children, teenagers, and adults, with a variety of difficulties.
07588 737932 View 07588 737932
Photo of Nigel Cadman, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Nigel Cadman
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Serves Area
I work in a person-centred manner which means that I value building a positive relationship with clients; working to create a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. This means that I want you to feel able to talk and express yourself about anything that may be troubling you. We talk about whatever you chose, and you can do so without fear of judgement. This enables you to become more comfortable with things as you discuss your thoughts freely, giving you an opportunity to consider things from different perspectives and over time building your confidence to explore different options and possibilities that are open to you.
I work in a person-centred manner which means that I value building a positive relationship with clients; working to create a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. This means that I want you to feel able to talk and express yourself about anything that may be troubling you. We talk about whatever you chose, and you can do so without fear of judgement. This enables you to become more comfortable with things as you discuss your thoughts freely, giving you an opportunity to consider things from different perspectives and over time building your confidence to explore different options and possibilities that are open to you.
01270 433834 View 01270 433834
Photo of Joanne Nicola Gregory - Parkes therapy Practice, Counsellor, MBACP
Parkes therapy Practice
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
As a qualified Counsellor, I work in a Client centred manner, providing a solid foundation for therapy, building on trust and mutual respect, by providing a safe, warm confidential and non-judgemental environment in which to contemplate your emotional state, because quite simple sometimes life can be just too much. . I will endeavour to help support you on your journey of finding the right answers and building on your own natural resilience. I offer both short and long term therapy depending on your needs.
As a qualified Counsellor, I work in a Client centred manner, providing a solid foundation for therapy, building on trust and mutual respect, by providing a safe, warm confidential and non-judgemental environment in which to contemplate your emotional state, because quite simple sometimes life can be just too much. . I will endeavour to help support you on your journey of finding the right answers and building on your own natural resilience. I offer both short and long term therapy depending on your needs.
01477 412596 View 01477 412596
Photo of Vanessa Bailey, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Vanessa Bailey
Psychotherapist, MBACP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you ever find yourself wondering why you react the way you do, struggle to trust, overthink relationships, or feel like you’re constantly trying to understand yourself? Maybe you’ve experienced difficult relationships, trauma, rejection, or times where your needs didn’t feel understood. Maybe you’ve learned to people-please, mask, over-function, avoid conflict, or put everyone else first. For many people, these patterns make sense when we explore your attachment style, past experiences and the ways you’ve learned to protect yourself.
Do you ever find yourself wondering why you react the way you do, struggle to trust, overthink relationships, or feel like you’re constantly trying to understand yourself? Maybe you’ve experienced difficult relationships, trauma, rejection, or times where your needs didn’t feel understood. Maybe you’ve learned to people-please, mask, over-function, avoid conflict, or put everyone else first. For many people, these patterns make sense when we explore your attachment style, past experiences and the ways you’ve learned to protect yourself.
01782 288179 View 01782 288179
Photo of Lavinia May, Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Lavinia May
Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Lavinia, If you're feeling anxious, stuck in unhelpful patterns, or - as a couple - caught in the same arguments and disconnection, you're not alone. My approach is kind, collaborative, and practical: we'll understand what's driving the conflict and create small, doable steps toward reconnection and understanding. I work with individuals and couples, drawing on evidence-based tools without the jargon. Sessions feel like real conversations with structure: we set goals together, track what's helping, and adapt as we go.
Hi, I'm Lavinia, If you're feeling anxious, stuck in unhelpful patterns, or - as a couple - caught in the same arguments and disconnection, you're not alone. My approach is kind, collaborative, and practical: we'll understand what's driving the conflict and create small, doable steps toward reconnection and understanding. I work with individuals and couples, drawing on evidence-based tools without the jargon. Sessions feel like real conversations with structure: we set goals together, track what's helping, and adapt as we go.
01270 449727 View 01270 449727

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Vicky Richardson - Bread and Roses Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Bread and Roses Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with the queer community for over 10 years.
I often collaborate with people who define as highly sensitive, neurodivergent or alternative in some way. You may think, feel and experience the world differently and that can come with huge ups and downs. Perhaps you look around and wonder how everyone else seems to be holding it together when you feel and think so deeply. Perhaps you get stuck in patterns of thinking and behaving that no longer help. I get it - life is often messy, unpredictable, and confusing, and at times it can feel like the cliff of overwhelm and burnout looms large. Curious about change in your life, work and relationships? Then lets connect!
I have worked with the queer community for over 10 years.
I often collaborate with people who define as highly sensitive, neurodivergent or alternative in some way. You may think, feel and experience the world differently and that can come with huge ups and downs. Perhaps you look around and wonder how everyone else seems to be holding it together when you feel and think so deeply. Perhaps you get stuck in patterns of thinking and behaving that no longer help. I get it - life is often messy, unpredictable, and confusing, and at times it can feel like the cliff of overwhelm and burnout looms large. Curious about change in your life, work and relationships? Then lets connect!
07401 270437 View 07401 270437
Photo of Claire Duchateau - Claire Duchateau at Unique Conversations, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Perhaps you are LGBTQIA+, still carrying the cost of years spent not quite fitting.
I work bilingually, in English and French, using Gottman-method couples therapy and neuroqueer-affirming individual work. Sessions are not about fixing you. They are about finding you. We move at your pace, in a safe space with everything you bring until the life you stopped allowing yourself to want starts to feel genuinely possible.
Perhaps you are LGBTQIA+, still carrying the cost of years spent not quite fitting.
I work bilingually, in English and French, using Gottman-method couples therapy and neuroqueer-affirming individual work. Sessions are not about fixing you. They are about finding you. We move at your pace, in a safe space with everything you bring until the life you stopped allowing yourself to want starts to feel genuinely possible.
01942 316297 View 01942 316297
Photo of Ally Condron, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Ally Condron
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
I have special interest in Gender Identity, Sexuality, Relationships, and issues facing LGBTQIA+ individuals.
A relatable and compassionate Therapist, based in Manchester City Centre, working both in person and online. Perhaps your past experiences are having an impact on your day to day life, or you are feeling down and need support. I offer clients the time and space to explore themselves, past and present events. Whatever it is that you are going through I will do my best to help. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming to know where to start and I welcome clients to bring their full selves, in all their complexity, to sessions, without pressure to have to "be" a certain kind of way.
I have special interest in Gender Identity, Sexuality, Relationships, and issues facing LGBTQIA+ individuals.
A relatable and compassionate Therapist, based in Manchester City Centre, working both in person and online. Perhaps your past experiences are having an impact on your day to day life, or you are feeling down and need support. I offer clients the time and space to explore themselves, past and present events. Whatever it is that you are going through I will do my best to help. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming to know where to start and I welcome clients to bring their full selves, in all their complexity, to sessions, without pressure to have to "be" a certain kind of way.
01707 938735 View 01707 938735
Photo of Lisa Howarth - Lisa Howarth Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Lisa Howarth Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Warm and down-to-earth, I offer a compassionate, collaborative space to explore your feelings and needs. Together, we can make sense of patterns, protective strategies and how earlier experiences may shape the present. Perhaps you find yourself feeling stuck, ashamed, avoiding closeness, or struggling with conflict or anxiety? You may be experiencing life changes such as separation, menopause or loss (including dementia), difficulties in relationships, the impact of sexual harm, or sexual difficulties. I work with adults of all genders, sexualities and relationship styles.
Warm and down-to-earth, I offer a compassionate, collaborative space to explore your feelings and needs. Together, we can make sense of patterns, protective strategies and how earlier experiences may shape the present. Perhaps you find yourself feeling stuck, ashamed, avoiding closeness, or struggling with conflict or anxiety? You may be experiencing life changes such as separation, menopause or loss (including dementia), difficulties in relationships, the impact of sexual harm, or sexual difficulties. I work with adults of all genders, sexualities and relationship styles.
0161 524 5095 View 0161 524 5095
Photo of Ilia (Stavroula) DAOUSSI, Counsellor, MA, MUKCP
Ilia (Stavroula) DAOUSSI
Counsellor, MA, MUKCP
Serves Area
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community myself, I’m familiar with the struggles around sexuality and/or gender.
As an Integrative Transpersonal Counsellor, I join each client on a journey to find a place where past and present experiences meet. We mutually create an explorative space to allow for better self-understanding and healing, while also listening to what is soulfully shared through images, dreams and poetry. Find out more about me at soulfulcounselling.co.uk.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community myself, I’m familiar with the struggles around sexuality and/or gender.
As an Integrative Transpersonal Counsellor, I join each client on a journey to find a place where past and present experiences meet. We mutually create an explorative space to allow for better self-understanding and healing, while also listening to what is soulfully shared through images, dreams and poetry. Find out more about me at soulfulcounselling.co.uk.
01767 661125 View 01767 661125
Photo of Sinead Murphy, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Sinead Murphy
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Do you find yourself being hard on yourself? Do you feel pressure to get things right? Does this leave you feeling low or doubting yourself? I have over 10 years’ experience in NHS therapy services. Over the years, I’ve seen how harsh we can be with ourselves, and how quickly we can slip into pushing ourselves down instead of offering the care we actually need. I often work with people experiencing: • Low mood and low self confidence • Trauma • Difficulties in relationships with themselves or others I provide a safe, affirming space for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
Do you find yourself being hard on yourself? Do you feel pressure to get things right? Does this leave you feeling low or doubting yourself? I have over 10 years’ experience in NHS therapy services. Over the years, I’ve seen how harsh we can be with ourselves, and how quickly we can slip into pushing ourselves down instead of offering the care we actually need. I often work with people experiencing: • Low mood and low self confidence • Trauma • Difficulties in relationships with themselves or others I provide a safe, affirming space for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
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Photo of Rae Yates, Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Rae Yates
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Queer Non-Binary / LGBTQIA+ Person-Centred Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor.
I am committed to providing an inclusive, welcoming, safe and confidential space where you can talk about the thoughts, feelings and experiences that you want to. The type of therapy I offer is called ‘Person Centred’. It is a non-pathologising, non-judgmental, non-directive approach to counselling. I am LGBTQIA+ and neurodiversity affirming.
I am a Queer Non-Binary / LGBTQIA+ Person-Centred Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor.
I am committed to providing an inclusive, welcoming, safe and confidential space where you can talk about the thoughts, feelings and experiences that you want to. The type of therapy I offer is called ‘Person Centred’. It is a non-pathologising, non-judgmental, non-directive approach to counselling. I am LGBTQIA+ and neurodiversity affirming.
020 3879 4147 View 020 3879 4147
Photo of Stephy Wilby - Therapy without barriers , Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Therapy without barriers
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Online Only
I am a counseller/pychotherapists that works with each client in a way that suits your needs. I work with different modalities.and I am also a clinical supervisor , offering a compassionate and personalised approach to therapy. I support people navigating the impact of life. I have experiance working with individuals from all walks of life, inlcuding working with people with different disabilites/neurodivergence. If you are ready to talk, the other parts will fall into place. You don't have to already know in advance what you want to work on. Telephone,livechat,email,video available.
I am a counseller/pychotherapists that works with each client in a way that suits your needs. I work with different modalities.and I am also a clinical supervisor , offering a compassionate and personalised approach to therapy. I support people navigating the impact of life. I have experiance working with individuals from all walks of life, inlcuding working with people with different disabilites/neurodivergence. If you are ready to talk, the other parts will fall into place. You don't have to already know in advance what you want to work on. Telephone,livechat,email,video available.
0161 524 9809 View 0161 524 9809
Photo of Joelle Theodoropoulos, Counsellor, MBACP
Joelle Theodoropoulos
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
As someone who is proudly queer, neurodiverse, and an active member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand what it can feel like to exist outside of society's expectations.
I warmly welcome people of all genders, sexualities, relationship styles, and identities, including those exploring non-traditional relationships. I believe that every person deserves to be met with respect, curiosity, and compassion, free from judgement or assumptions. Above all, I believe that everyone deserves a place where they can belong. My hope is to offer a space where you can show up exactly as you are, explore whatever is on your mind, and feel supported as you move towards a life that feels more authentic, connected, and meaningful.
As someone who is proudly queer, neurodiverse, and an active member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand what it can feel like to exist outside of society's expectations.
I warmly welcome people of all genders, sexualities, relationship styles, and identities, including those exploring non-traditional relationships. I believe that every person deserves to be met with respect, curiosity, and compassion, free from judgement or assumptions. Above all, I believe that everyone deserves a place where they can belong. My hope is to offer a space where you can show up exactly as you are, explore whatever is on your mind, and feel supported as you move towards a life that feels more authentic, connected, and meaningful.
01553 603533 View 01553 603533
Photo of Charlotte Haylock, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Charlotte Haylock
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
I am a chartered counselling psychologist. Within my therapeutic practice, I aim to offer a space that is non-judgemental, compassionate and warm. You may be exploring gender or sexuality, navigating non-monogamous relationships, or making sense of life as an autistic person or someone with ADHD, or other neurodiversity. Many clients come to me after feeling misunderstood or having to explain their identity or relationship style elsewhere. I offer an affirming, non-judgemental space where your experiences are taken seriously and where we can explore what’s going on for you at your own pace.
I am a chartered counselling psychologist. Within my therapeutic practice, I aim to offer a space that is non-judgemental, compassionate and warm. You may be exploring gender or sexuality, navigating non-monogamous relationships, or making sense of life as an autistic person or someone with ADHD, or other neurodiversity. Many clients come to me after feeling misunderstood or having to explain their identity or relationship style elsewhere. I offer an affirming, non-judgemental space where your experiences are taken seriously and where we can explore what’s going on for you at your own pace.
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Photo of Tash Wild - Prism Therapy UK, Counsellor, MSc
Prism Therapy UK
Counsellor, MSc
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialise in working with: LGBTQIA+ adults, neurodivergent adults, eating disorders, supporters/families of above.
I often work with people who have tried therapy and got told they were self aware but didn't find it very useful. During sessions we may predominantly talk through things, or we may incorporate other forms of expression like art, poetry, or music to access and help to incorporate your emotional and logical self.
I specialise in working with: LGBTQIA+ adults, neurodivergent adults, eating disorders, supporters/families of above.
I often work with people who have tried therapy and got told they were self aware but didn't find it very useful. During sessions we may predominantly talk through things, or we may incorporate other forms of expression like art, poetry, or music to access and help to incorporate your emotional and logical self.
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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.