LGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling in Derby

Photo of Debbie Coxon - Debbie Coxon Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Debbie Coxon Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Derby DE21
You may seek therapeutic support for many reasons especially when life throws you a curved ball. Bereavement or loss, trauma, anxiety and depression can all affect us in different ways. When negative thought patterns, behaviours and emotions become too intense it can affect daily life and impact relationships. I offer emotional support that is impartial and non-judgmental, together we will explore the context for your worries by identifying the underlying causes and make real progress towards your goals in a sensitive way. My name is Debbie and I am a fully qualified, insured Integrative Psychotherapist.
You may seek therapeutic support for many reasons especially when life throws you a curved ball. Bereavement or loss, trauma, anxiety and depression can all affect us in different ways. When negative thought patterns, behaviours and emotions become too intense it can affect daily life and impact relationships. I offer emotional support that is impartial and non-judgmental, together we will explore the context for your worries by identifying the underlying causes and make real progress towards your goals in a sensitive way. My name is Debbie and I am a fully qualified, insured Integrative Psychotherapist.
01332 410894 View 01332 410894
Photo of Kate Greenwood, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Kate Greenwood
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
As a gay woman, I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and I am passionate about supporting people from the community.
I am passionate about offering individualised CBT, using a combination of traditional CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). We work together in the sessions to focus on what you would like to change and the goals you want to achieve. I also have further training in adapted CBT to support people who are or believe.
As a gay woman, I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community and I am passionate about supporting people from the community.
I am passionate about offering individualised CBT, using a combination of traditional CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). We work together in the sessions to focus on what you would like to change and the goals you want to achieve. I also have further training in adapted CBT to support people who are or believe.
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Photo of Sally Wigginton, Psychotherapist, PTUK
Sally Wigginton
Psychotherapist, PTUK
Serves Area
Children and young people often communicate what they are feeling through play, creativity, behaviour, and connection rather than words alone. When a child is struggling with anxiety, grief, trauma, emotional overwhelm, or difficult life experiences, it can affect the whole family and leave everyone feeling unsure of how to help. I offer a warm, safe, and nurturing space where children can explore their feelings in ways that feel natural to them, helping them feel understood, supported, and empowered.
Children and young people often communicate what they are feeling through play, creativity, behaviour, and connection rather than words alone. When a child is struggling with anxiety, grief, trauma, emotional overwhelm, or difficult life experiences, it can affect the whole family and leave everyone feeling unsure of how to help. I offer a warm, safe, and nurturing space where children can explore their feelings in ways that feel natural to them, helping them feel understood, supported, and empowered.
01434 303778 View 01434 303778
Photo of Rich Goodson, Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Rich Goodson
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Serves Area
Sometimes we need to talk. Or unload. Or work out what needs to change. Sometimes we need to do this with someone who's NOT family or a friend or colleague - someone who can listen deeply and confidentially, with fresh ears - with no bias or judgement. Someone who's steady, accepting and unshockable. What does counselling with me look like? Well, there's no one-size-fits-all. I will tailor it to your needs, session by session. You may have clear objectives, or none at all. It's all ok. We can work it out. I'll certainly want to get to know YOU as a human being, not just the 'issue' you're bringing.
Sometimes we need to talk. Or unload. Or work out what needs to change. Sometimes we need to do this with someone who's NOT family or a friend or colleague - someone who can listen deeply and confidentially, with fresh ears - with no bias or judgement. Someone who's steady, accepting and unshockable. What does counselling with me look like? Well, there's no one-size-fits-all. I will tailor it to your needs, session by session. You may have clear objectives, or none at all. It's all ok. We can work it out. I'll certainly want to get to know YOU as a human being, not just the 'issue' you're bringing.
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Photo of Ben Michael Roper - Ben Roper Psychotherapy, Counsellor, BACP
Ben Roper Psychotherapy
Counsellor, BACP
Online Only
On the outside, you may look as though you are coping well: capable, thoughtful, and perhaps even successful in the eyes of others. But inside, things may feel more tender or uncertain. You might find yourself doubting who you are, second-guessing your choices, or trying hard to be good, perfect, or liked. Perhaps you often feel you have to earn your place, or carry a quiet sense of rejection that never fully goes away. Beneath these feelings, there may be something deeper: shame. Even if that word does not quite fit for you, you may recognise what it feels like to not feel good enough, or to feel disconnected from others.
On the outside, you may look as though you are coping well: capable, thoughtful, and perhaps even successful in the eyes of others. But inside, things may feel more tender or uncertain. You might find yourself doubting who you are, second-guessing your choices, or trying hard to be good, perfect, or liked. Perhaps you often feel you have to earn your place, or carry a quiet sense of rejection that never fully goes away. Beneath these feelings, there may be something deeper: shame. Even if that word does not quite fit for you, you may recognise what it feels like to not feel good enough, or to feel disconnected from others.
01623 701290 View 01623 701290
Photo of Rajan Rai, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Rajan Rai
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Serves Area
With individuals, I work with (but not limited to): Depression & Anxiety; Relationship Issues; LGBTQIA+ - related Issues; Racial and cultural issues/conflicts; Low self-esteem; Lack of fulfilment.
I provide warm, confidential, and non-judgemental counselling. I am friendly and passionate about my work. Together, we can reflect on your situation to understand some of the sources of your challenges, and explore ways of moving forward to enable you to lead a more fulfilling life.
With individuals, I work with (but not limited to): Depression & Anxiety; Relationship Issues; LGBTQIA+ - related Issues; Racial and cultural issues/conflicts; Low self-esteem; Lack of fulfilment.
I provide warm, confidential, and non-judgemental counselling. I am friendly and passionate about my work. Together, we can reflect on your situation to understand some of the sources of your challenges, and explore ways of moving forward to enable you to lead a more fulfilling life.
01777 809417 View 01777 809417
Photo of Jonathan Hills - Jonathan Hills Level 7 Qualified Counselling
Jonathan Hills Level 7 Qualified Counselling
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you are in a difficult situation or are finding daily-life emotionally difficult then I'm here to help. I specialise in all kinds of emotional difficulties and complex relationship situations. I have an online appointment scheduling system that allows you manage your own bookings. So, please do book a Free Introduction Call on a day & time that suits you, or contact me with any enquiries.
If you are in a difficult situation or are finding daily-life emotionally difficult then I'm here to help. I specialise in all kinds of emotional difficulties and complex relationship situations. I have an online appointment scheduling system that allows you manage your own bookings. So, please do book a Free Introduction Call on a day & time that suits you, or contact me with any enquiries.
07575 705867 View 07575 705867
Photo of Jenna Smith, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Sport Psych.
Jenna Smith
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Sport Psych.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! Thankyou for visiting my profile. My names Jenna smith and I am a qualified sport and exercise psychologist. I work with a variety of clients on a range of issues, performance issues are typically what I work with specifically looking at psychological skills training. However I have worked with more personal issues and am happy to work with clients on a range of things within my competencies. This includes items such as confidence, skill acquisition, self-esteem, personal issues, family issues and general mental health support.
Welcome! Thankyou for visiting my profile. My names Jenna smith and I am a qualified sport and exercise psychologist. I work with a variety of clients on a range of issues, performance issues are typically what I work with specifically looking at psychological skills training. However I have worked with more personal issues and am happy to work with clients on a range of things within my competencies. This includes items such as confidence, skill acquisition, self-esteem, personal issues, family issues and general mental health support.
0115 647 3682 View 0115 647 3682
Photo of Lorraine Frances Ferguson - Creative Counselling , Counsellor, MBACP
Creative Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Do you struggle with issues such as anger, anxiety, depression, self esteem, self harm, or relationship issues? Are you feeling stuck in your life and find it difficult to take a step forward? Have you experienced trauma such as bullying, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or bereavement, and would like to see how this may be impacting on your life and relationships today? Maybe you tried talking therapies before but seem to be getting nowhere. Creative counselling has the potential to heal you on a much deeper level, leading to long lasting change. Feelings can be accessed, and healed through the power of metaphor and symbols.
Do you struggle with issues such as anger, anxiety, depression, self esteem, self harm, or relationship issues? Are you feeling stuck in your life and find it difficult to take a step forward? Have you experienced trauma such as bullying, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or bereavement, and would like to see how this may be impacting on your life and relationships today? Maybe you tried talking therapies before but seem to be getting nowhere. Creative counselling has the potential to heal you on a much deeper level, leading to long lasting change. Feelings can be accessed, and healed through the power of metaphor and symbols.
0114 697 7607 View 0114 697 7607
Photo of Louise Bellamy, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Louise Bellamy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Derby DE22
Hi, I'm Louise, I offer Therapy and Coaching to adults on a short or long-term basis. I can work with you either in-person from my home in Allestree (Derby), online, or outdoors in a 'Walk and Talk' format. I'm experienced in working with clients facing a wide range of problems, and particularly with those suffering from eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, and difficulties in relating to other people. In addition to working privately, I have 10 years' experience of working with First Steps Derbyshire, providing counselling to clients with eating disorders.
Hi, I'm Louise, I offer Therapy and Coaching to adults on a short or long-term basis. I can work with you either in-person from my home in Allestree (Derby), online, or outdoors in a 'Walk and Talk' format. I'm experienced in working with clients facing a wide range of problems, and particularly with those suffering from eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, and difficulties in relating to other people. In addition to working privately, I have 10 years' experience of working with First Steps Derbyshire, providing counselling to clients with eating disorders.
01332 327428 View 01332 327428
Photo of Alice Yendle-Parsons, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Alice Yendle-Parsons
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Derby DE21
I am a BACP accredited and qualified Integrative Psychotherapist, Counsellor, Clinical Supervisor and Lecturer. I have over 15 years of experience in psychotherapy practice within independent private practice, Relate, employee counselling services and freelance contracts. I am qualified to work with adult individuals and couples, families, young people and children as well as providing clinical supervision for therapists. I offer an independent specialist service for Derby and the surrounding areas. I am passionate about empowering people to recognise and achieve their potential.
I am a BACP accredited and qualified Integrative Psychotherapist, Counsellor, Clinical Supervisor and Lecturer. I have over 15 years of experience in psychotherapy practice within independent private practice, Relate, employee counselling services and freelance contracts. I am qualified to work with adult individuals and couples, families, young people and children as well as providing clinical supervision for therapists. I offer an independent specialist service for Derby and the surrounding areas. I am passionate about empowering people to recognise and achieve their potential.
01332 417372 View 01332 417372
Photo of Abigail Louise Ayre, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Abigail Louise Ayre
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Derby DE3
Life can be overwhelming at times. Whether you’re feeling stuck, struggling with anxiety or low self-esteem, carrying the weight of past trauma, grief, or simply trying to rediscover joy and purpose, you don’t have to face it alone. I am an integrative counsellor, which means that where therapy is concerned, it's not a "one size fits all". I use different modalities, including Person Centred, Transactional Analysis, Gestalt, CBT, EFT, Sand Tray and creativity. Every person is unique and deserves to live their full existence. I’m passionate about helping people reconnect with their true selves and build healthier lives.
Life can be overwhelming at times. Whether you’re feeling stuck, struggling with anxiety or low self-esteem, carrying the weight of past trauma, grief, or simply trying to rediscover joy and purpose, you don’t have to face it alone. I am an integrative counsellor, which means that where therapy is concerned, it's not a "one size fits all". I use different modalities, including Person Centred, Transactional Analysis, Gestalt, CBT, EFT, Sand Tray and creativity. Every person is unique and deserves to live their full existence. I’m passionate about helping people reconnect with their true selves and build healthier lives.
01332 529972 View 01332 529972
Photo of Alyssa Roper, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Alyssa Roper
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Derby DE22
Are you finding it harder to cope than usual? Do you feel overwhelmed by the day-to-day stuff while everyone else is getting on with it? Are you worried about burdening your loved ones or maybe feel misunderstood or not heard? There are times when we can all feel that we aren't the person we used to be. When everyone around us seems to be coping and we question why we can’t. We may even stop doing the things we used to love or enjoy. This can lead to thoughts and feelings of isolation, loneliness, frustration, self-criticism and sadness. Together we can find the unique ways that support and nurture you now and in the future.
Are you finding it harder to cope than usual? Do you feel overwhelmed by the day-to-day stuff while everyone else is getting on with it? Are you worried about burdening your loved ones or maybe feel misunderstood or not heard? There are times when we can all feel that we aren't the person we used to be. When everyone around us seems to be coping and we question why we can’t. We may even stop doing the things we used to love or enjoy. This can lead to thoughts and feelings of isolation, loneliness, frustration, self-criticism and sadness. Together we can find the unique ways that support and nurture you now and in the future.
01332 529162 View 01332 529162
Photo of Lisa R Waugh, Counsellor, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Lisa R Waugh
Counsellor, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Derby DE21
A mature and experienced Art Psychotherapist, I hold sessions in person and online. I offer a warm and supportive space for you to explore yourself creatively in relation to the issues which bring you to seek therapy at this time. I am experienced working with loss and life-transitions, through illness, bereavement, work or relationship loss and change. My approach is relational and and I have been well-served by my psychodynamic training and appreciation for the role which early relational and adverse childhood experiences play in ones capacities to navigate life and loss. Special interest in spiritual aspects of well-being.
A mature and experienced Art Psychotherapist, I hold sessions in person and online. I offer a warm and supportive space for you to explore yourself creatively in relation to the issues which bring you to seek therapy at this time. I am experienced working with loss and life-transitions, through illness, bereavement, work or relationship loss and change. My approach is relational and and I have been well-served by my psychodynamic training and appreciation for the role which early relational and adverse childhood experiences play in ones capacities to navigate life and loss. Special interest in spiritual aspects of well-being.
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Photo of Hollie White - Hollie's Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Hollie's Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Derby DE22
If you are looking for an open, warm and safe space to explore your issues I may be the therapist for you. I provide my clients with a space to feel seen and valued whilst offering techniques and psycho-education tailored to their needs and goals. I particularly enjoy working with clients to explore patterns and draw links between current difficulties and historical difficulties they have faced in order to help them move forward in their life. I believe in championing the unique value of all individuals and helping them achieve or work towards a fulfilled and authentic life.
If you are looking for an open, warm and safe space to explore your issues I may be the therapist for you. I provide my clients with a space to feel seen and valued whilst offering techniques and psycho-education tailored to their needs and goals. I particularly enjoy working with clients to explore patterns and draw links between current difficulties and historical difficulties they have faced in order to help them move forward in their life. I believe in championing the unique value of all individuals and helping them achieve or work towards a fulfilled and authentic life.
01332 529855 View 01332 529855
Photo of Bridget Knowles, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Bridget Knowles
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Derby DE65
Hello my name is Bridget. You have taken the first step towards finding the support you need at this time in your life. Whatever you are facing, I will offer non-judgmental support in exploring what brings you to therapy. You may be feeling anxious, depressed or confused about where you are right now. Talking and working in a therapeutic relationship can be a healing process.
Hello my name is Bridget. You have taken the first step towards finding the support you need at this time in your life. Whatever you are facing, I will offer non-judgmental support in exploring what brings you to therapy. You may be feeling anxious, depressed or confused about where you are right now. Talking and working in a therapeutic relationship can be a healing process.
019467 60722 View 019467 60722
Photo of Marta Perestrello, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Marta Perestrello
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
1 Endorsed
Derby DE3
I am an experienced and highly qualified art psychotherapist. I offer in person and online psychotherapy, clinical supervision, parent and professional consultation. I work with young people and adults in person from Derby or online from where ever you live, work or travel to. Contact me to arrange a free Introductory Meeting to talk through your needs and agree on the best plan forward before committing to any work.
I am an experienced and highly qualified art psychotherapist. I offer in person and online psychotherapy, clinical supervision, parent and professional consultation. I work with young people and adults in person from Derby or online from where ever you live, work or travel to. Contact me to arrange a free Introductory Meeting to talk through your needs and agree on the best plan forward before committing to any work.
07480 485905 View 07480 485905
Photo of Hayley Warburton, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Hayley Warburton
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Derby DE22
I have experience of working with clients with autism spectrum conditions and from the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hello and welcome, I acknowledge that looking for help is a brave step and starting therapy or counselling can feel daunting, so my aim is to help you with this process by telling you a little about how I work and what you can expect. You are welcome just as you are with whatever it is you are facing; I offer a friendly warm and down-to-earth approach. My aim is to help guide you through life’s challenges using an integrative person-centred approach. I work in a non-judgemental way, so you can feel secure, supported and understood allowing you to find your own strength and resilience.
I have experience of working with clients with autism spectrum conditions and from the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hello and welcome, I acknowledge that looking for help is a brave step and starting therapy or counselling can feel daunting, so my aim is to help you with this process by telling you a little about how I work and what you can expect. You are welcome just as you are with whatever it is you are facing; I offer a friendly warm and down-to-earth approach. My aim is to help guide you through life’s challenges using an integrative person-centred approach. I work in a non-judgemental way, so you can feel secure, supported and understood allowing you to find your own strength and resilience.
01332 957067 View 01332 957067
Photo of Keziah Smith, Counsellor, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Keziah Smith
Counsellor, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Derby DE3
Hello, I’m Keziah Smith, (pronounced Kay-zee-ah, but people also call me Kiz) a qualified Art Psychotherapist and clinical supervisor with a deep commitment to inclusive, creative, and compassionate therapy. I provide a reflective space for you to explore your unique story and connect with your inner resources.
Hello, I’m Keziah Smith, (pronounced Kay-zee-ah, but people also call me Kiz) a qualified Art Psychotherapist and clinical supervisor with a deep commitment to inclusive, creative, and compassionate therapy. I provide a reflective space for you to explore your unique story and connect with your inner resources.
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Photo of Alex Wakefield, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Alex Wakefield
Psychotherapist, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Derby DE22
Hello! I am a person-centred counsellor and psychotherapist, BACP registered, insured, and DBS checked. I believe therapy should be a space where you feel safe to bring all parts of yourself. You might feel weighed down by things that are hard to put into words, such as memories, emotions, or experiences that feel heavy no matter how much you try to move past them. Perhaps you often feel on edge, disconnected, or exhausted from holding it all together. My clients often come to therapy wanting to understand why they feel the way they do, make sense of their experiences, and get everything off their chest.
Hello! I am a person-centred counsellor and psychotherapist, BACP registered, insured, and DBS checked. I believe therapy should be a space where you feel safe to bring all parts of yourself. You might feel weighed down by things that are hard to put into words, such as memories, emotions, or experiences that feel heavy no matter how much you try to move past them. Perhaps you often feel on edge, disconnected, or exhausted from holding it all together. My clients often come to therapy wanting to understand why they feel the way they do, make sense of their experiences, and get everything off their chest.
01332 529666 View 01332 529666

See more therapy options for Derby

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.