LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Guildford, ENG

Photo of Charlotte Ord, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Charlotte Ord
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Having spent over a decade working in the health and fitness industry prior to training as a psychologist, I have a particular interest in issues relating to the body, including weight, eating disorders, body dissatisfaction, and pain. I have extensive experience working with people in larger bodies and am an advocate of health at every size and body diversity. I also have a strong interest in LGBTQ+ issues and am experienced in working with clients who struggle with a range of other difficulties including anxiety, depression, loneliness, bereavement and life transitions. I am able to support adults and young people aged sixteen +.
Having spent over a decade working in the health and fitness industry prior to training as a psychologist, I have a particular interest in issues relating to the body, including weight, eating disorders, body dissatisfaction, and pain. I have extensive experience working with people in larger bodies and am an advocate of health at every size and body diversity. I also have a strong interest in LGBTQ+ issues and am experienced in working with clients who struggle with a range of other difficulties including anxiety, depression, loneliness, bereavement and life transitions. I am able to support adults and young people aged sixteen +.
01483 930169 View 01483 930169
Photo of Josiah Twiselton - Josiah at Off Beat Therapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Josiah at Off Beat Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
I offer a lived experience perspective when working with queer, trans and autistic clients.
Welcome, I'm Josiah. I am passionate about providing counselling to all, with a particular focus on serving those who may not feel comfortable or accepted at traditional therapy services. My clients are typically looking for someone who understands the complexity of being 'different' and 'other' in our society. I see clients both online and in Farnham, Surrey.
I offer a lived experience perspective when working with queer, trans and autistic clients.
Welcome, I'm Josiah. I am passionate about providing counselling to all, with a particular focus on serving those who may not feel comfortable or accepted at traditional therapy services. My clients are typically looking for someone who understands the complexity of being 'different' and 'other' in our society. I see clients both online and in Farnham, Surrey.
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Photo of Nina Jellinek, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Nina Jellinek
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Accredited Counsellor for adults, young people, and couples. Counselling Supervisor. LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse friendly (with lived and professional experience of both, including experience of autism, PDA profile, ADHD, OCD). I am experienced in working with clients with a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, support for neurodiversity, support re sexuality or identity, trauma, bereavement, childhood issues, domestic violence. I am a Systemic Counsellor, which means I believe in understanding your inner beliefs but also your wider context. I offer a safe space to explore feelings and to look at coping strategies.
Accredited Counsellor for adults, young people, and couples. Counselling Supervisor. LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse friendly (with lived and professional experience of both, including experience of autism, PDA profile, ADHD, OCD). I am experienced in working with clients with a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, support for neurodiversity, support re sexuality or identity, trauma, bereavement, childhood issues, domestic violence. I am a Systemic Counsellor, which means I believe in understanding your inner beliefs but also your wider context. I offer a safe space to explore feelings and to look at coping strategies.
01252 986156 View 01252 986156
Photo of Sue Hughes, MBACP, Counsellor
Sue Hughes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
I have also worked with teenagers at a College, working with many issues such as transgender, abuse and exam worries.
Life experiences can overwhelm us. They may leave us feeling confused as to how to move forward, or unable to cope with a past or present day situation. Counselling offers clients the opportunity to explore these troubling situations in a non-judgemental and safe environment, free from criticism. I believe everyone is unique, therefore sessions are tailored to each individual. They are taken at your pace, allowing time for you to process your thoughts and feelings. Counselling allows you to be understood, and heard, and helps YOU find the answers.
I have also worked with teenagers at a College, working with many issues such as transgender, abuse and exam worries.
Life experiences can overwhelm us. They may leave us feeling confused as to how to move forward, or unable to cope with a past or present day situation. Counselling offers clients the opportunity to explore these troubling situations in a non-judgemental and safe environment, free from criticism. I believe everyone is unique, therefore sessions are tailored to each individual. They are taken at your pace, allowing time for you to process your thoughts and feelings. Counselling allows you to be understood, and heard, and helps YOU find the answers.
01276 740190 View 01276 740190
Photo of Craig Ryan, BACP, Counsellor
Craig Ryan
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
I trained at Bristol University and the London Metropolitan University and am an Individual member registered with the BACP. Along side working within the NHS, I carry out work with a charity supporting single parents. I provide a non judgemental safe protected space. I am an integrative counsellor, which means I am able to draw upon different resources to meet your individual needs and requirements. Some areas of work I work with are; stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, men's health, bereavement and loss, physical and domestic violence, low confidence and self-esteem issues, substance misuse disorders and many more.
I trained at Bristol University and the London Metropolitan University and am an Individual member registered with the BACP. Along side working within the NHS, I carry out work with a charity supporting single parents. I provide a non judgemental safe protected space. I am an integrative counsellor, which means I am able to draw upon different resources to meet your individual needs and requirements. Some areas of work I work with are; stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, men's health, bereavement and loss, physical and domestic violence, low confidence and self-esteem issues, substance misuse disorders and many more.
020 3949 6868 View 020 3949 6868
Photo of Emma K Smith, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Emma K Smith
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Are you experiencing a difficult or challenging time in your life? Perhaps you are feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Whatever your reason for considering therapy and viewing my profile, it is often the case that we 'hit the wall' or 'crash' emotionally before we can identify that we may need professional support. When our usual coping mechanisms no longer work the struggle can be overwhelming. As your therapist I recognise this as your first and critical step toward positive change. You are, I'm sure, familiar with the phrase 'if you do what you've always done...you get what you've always got' and how true it is.....
Are you experiencing a difficult or challenging time in your life? Perhaps you are feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Whatever your reason for considering therapy and viewing my profile, it is often the case that we 'hit the wall' or 'crash' emotionally before we can identify that we may need professional support. When our usual coping mechanisms no longer work the struggle can be overwhelming. As your therapist I recognise this as your first and critical step toward positive change. You are, I'm sure, familiar with the phrase 'if you do what you've always done...you get what you've always got' and how true it is.....
01689 666191 View 01689 666191
Photo of Evelyn Gaunt
Evelyn Gaunt
Verified Verified
Guildford GU3
I provide a safe space for Talking Therapy and EMDR Therapy sessions. EMDR Therapy can be helpful for PTSD and Trauma, whether a one off incident or chronic trauma such as childhood abuse or neglect and many other mental health presentations, such as body dysmorphia, grief, self-esteem, chronic pain, anxiety, sexual assault, childhood neglect, domestic abuse and more. Many of these presentations can leave you feeling isolated, frustrated and helpless, by processing these via bilateral stimulation to a resolution, life can become more manageable and less triggering, allowing you to achieve your goals.
I provide a safe space for Talking Therapy and EMDR Therapy sessions. EMDR Therapy can be helpful for PTSD and Trauma, whether a one off incident or chronic trauma such as childhood abuse or neglect and many other mental health presentations, such as body dysmorphia, grief, self-esteem, chronic pain, anxiety, sexual assault, childhood neglect, domestic abuse and more. Many of these presentations can leave you feeling isolated, frustrated and helpless, by processing these via bilateral stimulation to a resolution, life can become more manageable and less triggering, allowing you to achieve your goals.
01483 694867 View 01483 694867
Photo of Lisa Marie Charter, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Lisa Marie Charter
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guildford GU1  (Online Only)
My journey into counselling began as a personal quest for healing . Through that journey, I discovered a profound passion for supporting others to navigate their own paths towards healing and resilience. In my practice, I offer a safe , supportive space where trauma survivors can explore their experiences, express their emotions, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. With empathy and understanding, I walk alongside my clients as they work through the complexities of trauma, offering support, guidance, and evidence-based techniques to facilitate healing and growth.
My journey into counselling began as a personal quest for healing . Through that journey, I discovered a profound passion for supporting others to navigate their own paths towards healing and resilience. In my practice, I offer a safe , supportive space where trauma survivors can explore their experiences, express their emotions, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. With empathy and understanding, I walk alongside my clients as they work through the complexities of trauma, offering support, guidance, and evidence-based techniques to facilitate healing and growth.
01483 617650 View 01483 617650
Photo of Andy Edwin Spencer, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Andy Edwin Spencer
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
Life will always present us with challenges and difficult situations. Sometimes these challenges can get on top of us and we stop living and enjoying our lives as fully as we would like. This is where counselling can be of help. Counselling is about offering a supportive relationship in a safe and confidential environment to talk through whatever is concerning them. Counselling is not about giving advice and counsellors can never be experts in other people’s lives. Counselling is about helping people find their unique strengths to work through a particular issue in the best way for them so that they can live a happy life.
Life will always present us with challenges and difficult situations. Sometimes these challenges can get on top of us and we stop living and enjoying our lives as fully as we would like. This is where counselling can be of help. Counselling is about offering a supportive relationship in a safe and confidential environment to talk through whatever is concerning them. Counselling is not about giving advice and counsellors can never be experts in other people’s lives. Counselling is about helping people find their unique strengths to work through a particular issue in the best way for them so that they can live a happy life.
01483 930178 View 01483 930178
Photo of Emma Pott, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Emma Pott
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
I see that all behaviours such as self-harm, suicide attempts, drinking, drug abuse and other impulsive behaviours have developed as coping strategies to cope with and numb difficult emotions and experiences. These behaviours often act as a plaster to a deeper wound, but just like a plaster they don’t really ever fully heal unless they have time to heal properly. This is the work of therapy to take off the plaster and look more towards the root causes of the behaviour to work out what is going on for you.
I see that all behaviours such as self-harm, suicide attempts, drinking, drug abuse and other impulsive behaviours have developed as coping strategies to cope with and numb difficult emotions and experiences. These behaviours often act as a plaster to a deeper wound, but just like a plaster they don’t really ever fully heal unless they have time to heal properly. This is the work of therapy to take off the plaster and look more towards the root causes of the behaviour to work out what is going on for you.
01793 540095 View 01793 540095
Photo of Aude Ayliffe - Aude Therapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Aude Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Hello and welcome to my page, My name is Aude and I am a BACP registered Psychotherapeutic Counsellor and Transformational Coach. I aim to offer a safe and calm approach rooted in compassion and understanding to fit your needs, challenges and concerns. As a multi-disciplinary therapist for adults and young people (from 11y old), my approach incorporates humanistic, person-centred, psychodynamic, mindfulness, life coaching, and CBT modalities, depending on my client's individual needs.
Hello and welcome to my page, My name is Aude and I am a BACP registered Psychotherapeutic Counsellor and Transformational Coach. I aim to offer a safe and calm approach rooted in compassion and understanding to fit your needs, challenges and concerns. As a multi-disciplinary therapist for adults and young people (from 11y old), my approach incorporates humanistic, person-centred, psychodynamic, mindfulness, life coaching, and CBT modalities, depending on my client's individual needs.
01793 540243 View 01793 540243
Photo of Craig Coventry - Craig Coventry Counselling and Psychotherapy, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Craig Coventry Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
I am a Counsellor, Psychotherapist, trauma therapist and EMDR practitioner. I am registered and accredited member of the BACP. My primary way of working aims to work with the individual as a whole, through helping the client understand their thought and emotional processes. I work on the basis that each individual is able to direct themselves through their difficulties in the best way for them, and that my work is to help deepen their self-exploration and exploration of their difficulties so that clients are better equipped to navigate through their difficulties.
I am a Counsellor, Psychotherapist, trauma therapist and EMDR practitioner. I am registered and accredited member of the BACP. My primary way of working aims to work with the individual as a whole, through helping the client understand their thought and emotional processes. I work on the basis that each individual is able to direct themselves through their difficulties in the best way for them, and that my work is to help deepen their self-exploration and exploration of their difficulties so that clients are better equipped to navigate through their difficulties.
07480 488503 View 07480 488503
Photo of Steven Hayward, COSRT General, Psychotherapist
Steven Hayward
Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
I am passionate about living a fulfilled life. I believe this is rooted in positive and satisfying relationships. Sometimes, these relationships become stuck, hit an obstacle, or become overwhelmed by disagreements and conflicts. Sometimes, our bodies do not perform or function sexually in the way we would like them to, which can have a significant impact on our well-being, our sexual satisfaction, and ultimately our relationships.
I am passionate about living a fulfilled life. I believe this is rooted in positive and satisfying relationships. Sometimes, these relationships become stuck, hit an obstacle, or become overwhelmed by disagreements and conflicts. Sometimes, our bodies do not perform or function sexually in the way we would like them to, which can have a significant impact on our well-being, our sexual satisfaction, and ultimately our relationships.
01483 963052 View 01483 963052
Photo of Cami Jessica Daligand - Neurodiversity Coaching by Cami, Counsellor
Neurodiversity Coaching by Cami
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1  (Online Only)
My aim is to create a safe and non-judgmental space that focuses on an individual's strengths to help them grow and promote their own wellbeing. I am a neurodiversity coach and counsellor. I have over 13 years of experience in the mental health and neurodiversity field. I run my own practice and provide counselling and neurodiversity coaching. Autism and ADHD have been the areas of expertise in which my passion and dedication has grown. I have worked with both neurodiverse children and adults, with my focus being more with adults in the last 4 years.
My aim is to create a safe and non-judgmental space that focuses on an individual's strengths to help them grow and promote their own wellbeing. I am a neurodiversity coach and counsellor. I have over 13 years of experience in the mental health and neurodiversity field. I run my own practice and provide counselling and neurodiversity coaching. Autism and ADHD have been the areas of expertise in which my passion and dedication has grown. I have worked with both neurodiverse children and adults, with my focus being more with adults in the last 4 years.
01483 968822 View 01483 968822
Photo of Paul Alistair Byford, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Paul Alistair Byford
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Paul has a wealth of experience of psychological intervention having worked in various multi-disciplinary work settings including NHS IAPT services (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies). Alcohol and Drug misuse services, renowned private residential rehabs and prison. He has also had a successful private practice in Harley Street and in the Home Counties and now works from Guildford and Godalming in Surrey. Paul will use various contemporary research and evidence based therapeutic models including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), MET (Motivational Enhancement Therapy) and Humanistic Person Centred Therapy to help facilitate change and help people with various issues to live more balanced lives.
Paul has a wealth of experience of psychological intervention having worked in various multi-disciplinary work settings including NHS IAPT services (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies). Alcohol and Drug misuse services, renowned private residential rehabs and prison. He has also had a successful private practice in Harley Street and in the Home Counties and now works from Guildford and Godalming in Surrey. Paul will use various contemporary research and evidence based therapeutic models including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), MET (Motivational Enhancement Therapy) and Humanistic Person Centred Therapy to help facilitate change and help people with various issues to live more balanced lives.
07480 486605 View 07480 486605
Photo of Rodney Dee, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Rodney Dee
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guildford GU1
Starting therapy can be daunting so it’s important that you identify a therapist and an approach to working that feels right for you. As an art psychotherapist, I am open, honest and inclusive with considerable experience supporting children, adolescents and young adults in schools and community settings. My approach to working is psychodynamic - I’m interested in how past events may have affected you, both consciously and unconsciously, influencing the way you think, feel and behave. Should talking about your experiences be too difficult, I may encourage you to try different creative techniques as an alternate means of expression.
Starting therapy can be daunting so it’s important that you identify a therapist and an approach to working that feels right for you. As an art psychotherapist, I am open, honest and inclusive with considerable experience supporting children, adolescents and young adults in schools and community settings. My approach to working is psychodynamic - I’m interested in how past events may have affected you, both consciously and unconsciously, influencing the way you think, feel and behave. Should talking about your experiences be too difficult, I may encourage you to try different creative techniques as an alternate means of expression.
01252 988513 View 01252 988513
Photo of Maria Bessant, MBACP, Counsellor
Maria Bessant
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Hi and a very warm welcome. I'm Maria, a Humanistic Counsellor offering evening face to face, online, or telephone sessions for 16+ and Adults. I have experience working with a number of issues such as; anxiety, depression, grief, sexual abuse, as well as working with lack of confidence and self esteem. Whatever brings you to counselling let me help you find a way to take control, to help you stop feeling overwhelmed and help you to feel more able to cope with whatever life throws your way, supporting you to discovering your own way forward.
Hi and a very warm welcome. I'm Maria, a Humanistic Counsellor offering evening face to face, online, or telephone sessions for 16+ and Adults. I have experience working with a number of issues such as; anxiety, depression, grief, sexual abuse, as well as working with lack of confidence and self esteem. Whatever brings you to counselling let me help you find a way to take control, to help you stop feeling overwhelmed and help you to feel more able to cope with whatever life throws your way, supporting you to discovering your own way forward.
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Photo of Dr Emilia Szmigielska, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Emilia Szmigielska
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
I can help with various difficulties such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, addictions, low self-esteem, ADHD, narcissistic abuse, panic attacks, OCD, trauma, bereavement, PTSD, anger management, social anxiety, relationship issues, sexuality, disordered eating, body image, body appreciation, parenthood, abortion, career change, lack of motivation and many others. As an integrative therapist I use various therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT),
I can help with various difficulties such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, addictions, low self-esteem, ADHD, narcissistic abuse, panic attacks, OCD, trauma, bereavement, PTSD, anger management, social anxiety, relationship issues, sexuality, disordered eating, body image, body appreciation, parenthood, abortion, career change, lack of motivation and many others. As an integrative therapist I use various therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT),
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Photo of Zoe Malda, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Zoe Malda
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Hello there. I'm Zoe, a dedicated therapist specialising in trauma, ADHD, BPD/EUPD and narcissistic abuse. With profound empathy and extensive experience, I provide a safe and compassionate space for healing and recovery. My aim is to provide high quality therapy to all of my clients, with a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each individual's experiences. For some, a therapist is a companion through the challenges of daily life, while others might be looking to face challenges of the past. If you're in search of unwavering guidance and support, free from judgment, I encourage you to reach out.
Hello there. I'm Zoe, a dedicated therapist specialising in trauma, ADHD, BPD/EUPD and narcissistic abuse. With profound empathy and extensive experience, I provide a safe and compassionate space for healing and recovery. My aim is to provide high quality therapy to all of my clients, with a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each individual's experiences. For some, a therapist is a companion through the challenges of daily life, while others might be looking to face challenges of the past. If you're in search of unwavering guidance and support, free from judgment, I encourage you to reach out.
020 3984 9668 View 020 3984 9668
Photo of Dr Jessie Gough - Dr Jessie Gough at Neurodiverseonline, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jessie Gough at Neurodiverseonline
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Have you always felt different or had trouble fitting in? Perhaps you're thinking that you might have Autism/ASD, ADHD or Tics/Tourette’s, Dyslexia or a learning disability. Would you like an assessment for yourself or your child to confirm this? Or maybe you have been newly diagnosed or have traits of ASD, ADHD or Tourette’s and are looking for further information and support. I, and my small team of expert psychologists at Neurodiverseonline, offer diagnostic assessments for adults and children with Autism/ASD, ADHD, Tourette's/Tics, Dyslexia and cognitive assessments (IQ tests) / learning disability assessments.
Have you always felt different or had trouble fitting in? Perhaps you're thinking that you might have Autism/ASD, ADHD or Tics/Tourette’s, Dyslexia or a learning disability. Would you like an assessment for yourself or your child to confirm this? Or maybe you have been newly diagnosed or have traits of ASD, ADHD or Tourette’s and are looking for further information and support. I, and my small team of expert psychologists at Neurodiverseonline, offer diagnostic assessments for adults and children with Autism/ASD, ADHD, Tourette's/Tics, Dyslexia and cognitive assessments (IQ tests) / learning disability assessments.
0333 880 4881 View 0333 880 4881
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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.