Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Counselling in Harrogate
Feeling overwhelmed, lost or constantly on edge? Communication breaking down in your relationship, or feeling like you can't break old patterns? I've been there and I've helped so many other's who have too. This is a space where you can breathe, talk freely and start to feel like yourself again. To be heard and understood. I bring my true self to sessions, focusing on building a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe and comfortable to be fully you too.
Feeling overwhelmed, lost or constantly on edge? Communication breaking down in your relationship, or feeling like you can't break old patterns? I've been there and I've helped so many other's who have too. This is a space where you can breathe, talk freely and start to feel like yourself again. To be heard and understood. I bring my true self to sessions, focusing on building a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe and comfortable to be fully you too.
I am an Accredited Counsellor & Psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of rich & varied experience of working with a diverse mix of clients in various settings ranging from mental health services, NHS clinics, sexual health & sexual violence services. I work from a non pathological stance and value diversity. In addition to my therapeutic training I have undertaken specialist training enabling me to work effectively with neurodivergent clients. I am also an accredited Mindfulness teacher and incorporate aspects of this into my client work.I hope to enable clients to gain insights and meet themselves with compassion & understanding.
I am an Accredited Counsellor & Psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of rich & varied experience of working with a diverse mix of clients in various settings ranging from mental health services, NHS clinics, sexual health & sexual violence services. I work from a non pathological stance and value diversity. In addition to my therapeutic training I have undertaken specialist training enabling me to work effectively with neurodivergent clients. I am also an accredited Mindfulness teacher and incorporate aspects of this into my client work.I hope to enable clients to gain insights and meet themselves with compassion & understanding.
If you’ve been wondering whether ADHD might be part of your life, you’re not alone & we’re here to help you explore it. At the UK Practice, our neuroaffirmative approach to ADHD assessment & diagnosis means that we take time to understand how ADHD shows up in your life, whether it’s affecting your work, relationships, or personal sense of self. Once diagnosed, our comprehensive reports and feedback can guide post-diagnostic services, including gaining access to medical services. You’re not just left with a label but equipped with practical strategies and coping tools that empower you to thrive.
If you’ve been wondering whether ADHD might be part of your life, you’re not alone & we’re here to help you explore it. At the UK Practice, our neuroaffirmative approach to ADHD assessment & diagnosis means that we take time to understand how ADHD shows up in your life, whether it’s affecting your work, relationships, or personal sense of self. Once diagnosed, our comprehensive reports and feedback can guide post-diagnostic services, including gaining access to medical services. You’re not just left with a label but equipped with practical strategies and coping tools that empower you to thrive.
Do you feel devastated after an affair, or trapped in the hurt and mistrust that followed? I provide specialist couples counselling for partners facing the hardest challenges - betrayal, sex & intimacy that’s vanished, the same fight on repeat, or the complexities of neurodiverse or poly relationships. By the time people find me, they’ve usually tried everything else. My style is structured, direct, and designed to create change. One couple put it this way: “When all hope was lost, Shan’s help and guidance enabled us to reconnect and be stronger than we have ever been".
Do you feel devastated after an affair, or trapped in the hurt and mistrust that followed? I provide specialist couples counselling for partners facing the hardest challenges - betrayal, sex & intimacy that’s vanished, the same fight on repeat, or the complexities of neurodiverse or poly relationships. By the time people find me, they’ve usually tried everything else. My style is structured, direct, and designed to create change. One couple put it this way: “When all hope was lost, Shan’s help and guidance enabled us to reconnect and be stronger than we have ever been".
If you’ve been wondering whether ADHD might be part of your life, you’re not alone & we’re here to help you explore it. At the UK Practice, our neuroaffirmative approach to ADHD assessment & diagnosis means that we take time to understand how ADHD shows up in your life, whether it’s affecting your work, relationships, or personal sense of self. Once diagnosed, our comprehensive reports and feedback can guide post-diagnostic services, including gaining access to medical services. You’re not just left with a label but equipped with practical strategies and coping tools that empower you to thrive.
If you’ve been wondering whether ADHD might be part of your life, you’re not alone & we’re here to help you explore it. At the UK Practice, our neuroaffirmative approach to ADHD assessment & diagnosis means that we take time to understand how ADHD shows up in your life, whether it’s affecting your work, relationships, or personal sense of self. Once diagnosed, our comprehensive reports and feedback can guide post-diagnostic services, including gaining access to medical services. You’re not just left with a label but equipped with practical strategies and coping tools that empower you to thrive.
You may look capable on the outside — the steady one others rely on — yet privately feel anxious, disconnected, or increasingly strained in your relationships. Often it isn’t just stress, but patterns in communication and attachment that quietly erode closeness over time. Many people begin therapy individually and realise their personal growth is closely linked to their relationships. I offer calm, thoughtful therapy for individuals and couples seeking clarity, depth and lasting change.
You may look capable on the outside — the steady one others rely on — yet privately feel anxious, disconnected, or increasingly strained in your relationships. Often it isn’t just stress, but patterns in communication and attachment that quietly erode closeness over time. Many people begin therapy individually and realise their personal growth is closely linked to their relationships. I offer calm, thoughtful therapy for individuals and couples seeking clarity, depth and lasting change.
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re carrying things that others can’t see. You might feel stuck, anxious, burnt out, or unsure why you’re not coping. You may also feel misaligned or uncertain about what comes next. I don’t offer quick fixes or advice, I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for counselling or coaching, to explore what’s going on at your pace. For trauma or distressing events, I use gentle approaches like the Rewind Technique, which can help you process difficult memories without having to relive them in detail. Sometimes, having someone who really listens is the first step.
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re carrying things that others can’t see. You might feel stuck, anxious, burnt out, or unsure why you’re not coping. You may also feel misaligned or uncertain about what comes next. I don’t offer quick fixes or advice, I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for counselling or coaching, to explore what’s going on at your pace. For trauma or distressing events, I use gentle approaches like the Rewind Technique, which can help you process difficult memories without having to relive them in detail. Sometimes, having someone who really listens is the first step.
I understand that starting therapy can feel daunting, especially if you’ve ever felt misunderstood or dismissed in traditional settings, or unsure how to express yourself. Many neurodivergent clients find that previous therapy hasn’t fully understood their experience. That’s why I’m dedicated to creating a warm, safe, and accommodating space where you can feel understood and valued exactly as you are.
I work with an integrative approach, placing you at the heart of therapy in a safe, judgment-free space. My approach is flexible and fluid, adapting to your unique needs and preferences.
I understand that starting therapy can feel daunting, especially if you’ve ever felt misunderstood or dismissed in traditional settings, or unsure how to express yourself. Many neurodivergent clients find that previous therapy hasn’t fully understood their experience. That’s why I’m dedicated to creating a warm, safe, and accommodating space where you can feel understood and valued exactly as you are.
I work with an integrative approach, placing you at the heart of therapy in a safe, judgment-free space. My approach is flexible and fluid, adapting to your unique needs and preferences.
I am an experienced couples and individuals counsellor. If you are reading this, I imagine you are experiencing some difficult issues in your life. It may be life has recently changed, new challenges have appeared, or you may have always felt life was difficult, and you need to explore issues that are causing you pain and making you feel unhappy. It takes great strength to realise that life’s issues are becoming overwhelming, and together, we can explore your situation and help you understand yourself. I do an immense amount of work with couples regarding relationship issues and goals as well.
I am an experienced couples and individuals counsellor. If you are reading this, I imagine you are experiencing some difficult issues in your life. It may be life has recently changed, new challenges have appeared, or you may have always felt life was difficult, and you need to explore issues that are causing you pain and making you feel unhappy. It takes great strength to realise that life’s issues are becoming overwhelming, and together, we can explore your situation and help you understand yourself. I do an immense amount of work with couples regarding relationship issues and goals as well.
You might be feeling disconnected, depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed by past trauma? Seeking a safe, compassionate space to explore these feelings at your pace, where you’ll feel seen and heard without judgment? Want to find the root issue, inner peace, build resilience, and reconnect with yourself and the world? You might be struggling with the impact of a family member who has experienced hardship or even lost someone recently. Life can throw us a lot of hard curveballs, it can be so difficult to deal with them alone, but you don't have to, you are safe here.
You might be feeling disconnected, depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed by past trauma? Seeking a safe, compassionate space to explore these feelings at your pace, where you’ll feel seen and heard without judgment? Want to find the root issue, inner peace, build resilience, and reconnect with yourself and the world? You might be struggling with the impact of a family member who has experienced hardship or even lost someone recently. Life can throw us a lot of hard curveballs, it can be so difficult to deal with them alone, but you don't have to, you are safe here.
Hi there, thank you for visiting my page and well done for making the first step on your journey.
I know what it’s like to feel stuck in the dark. It can be lonely and scary, but we don’t need to stay there. Let’s work together to find your way out.
I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to gain a clearer perception of themselves and work towards positive psychological growth.
It is through our relationships that we understand who we are and how we relate to others and the world. I therefore believe that, in order to change and grow, the therapeutic relationship is key.
Hi there, thank you for visiting my page and well done for making the first step on your journey.
I know what it’s like to feel stuck in the dark. It can be lonely and scary, but we don’t need to stay there. Let’s work together to find your way out.
I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to gain a clearer perception of themselves and work towards positive psychological growth.
It is through our relationships that we understand who we are and how we relate to others and the world. I therefore believe that, in order to change and grow, the therapeutic relationship is key.
I’m an Integrative Therapist who believes therapy should be alive, collaborative, and purposeful. My clients want more than polite nods — they want insight, clarity, and real change. They want direction, honesty and no nonsense. They want to feel we get on and they love coming to sessions.Together we explore why you think, feel, and behave as you do, and how to shift it. I work with thoughtful, brave, capable people who are often the ones others rely on, yet privately feel anxious, disconnected, stuck, or unseen. My approach is compassionate, curious, real and honest — helping you move from understanding to transformation.
I’m an Integrative Therapist who believes therapy should be alive, collaborative, and purposeful. My clients want more than polite nods — they want insight, clarity, and real change. They want direction, honesty and no nonsense. They want to feel we get on and they love coming to sessions.Together we explore why you think, feel, and behave as you do, and how to shift it. I work with thoughtful, brave, capable people who are often the ones others rely on, yet privately feel anxious, disconnected, stuck, or unseen. My approach is compassionate, curious, real and honest — helping you move from understanding to transformation.
I specialise in male and female sexual difficulties and in relationship issues and work with couples and individuals. Sexual issues may have a physiological and/or psychological cause and include: loss of intimacy and desire, mismatched libidos, orgasm difficulties, erectile dysfunction, premature and delayed ejaculation, vaginismus, sexual pain, menopause, sexual phobia and anxiety, lack of confidence and issues with porn use. Relationship issues include: infidelity, loss of trust, communication difficulties, lack of intimacy/connection, adjusting to change, conflict, stress and anxiety, separation and different attachment styles.
I specialise in male and female sexual difficulties and in relationship issues and work with couples and individuals. Sexual issues may have a physiological and/or psychological cause and include: loss of intimacy and desire, mismatched libidos, orgasm difficulties, erectile dysfunction, premature and delayed ejaculation, vaginismus, sexual pain, menopause, sexual phobia and anxiety, lack of confidence and issues with porn use. Relationship issues include: infidelity, loss of trust, communication difficulties, lack of intimacy/connection, adjusting to change, conflict, stress and anxiety, separation and different attachment styles.
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Book a free 15 minute call with me via my profile to chat through your needs and how we can work together.
Feeling stuck and frustrated in your relationship, repeating patterns that you both don't know how to stop? Couples therapy can help work through what is happening and can get to the route of why ? Therapy can help you navigate towards repair and reconnection. Couples often come facing challenges with communication, mis matched desires, unmet needs and repeated arguments. We can work with communication techniques and strategies, emotional regulation, and a step by step approach that addresses the needs of everyone.
Book a free 15 minute call with me via my profile to chat through your needs and how we can work together.
Feeling stuck and frustrated in your relationship, repeating patterns that you both don't know how to stop? Couples therapy can help work through what is happening and can get to the route of why ? Therapy can help you navigate towards repair and reconnection. Couples often come facing challenges with communication, mis matched desires, unmet needs and repeated arguments. We can work with communication techniques and strategies, emotional regulation, and a step by step approach that addresses the needs of everyone.
I am a therapist specialising in kink-aware and sex-positive support for individuals, couples, and those in open or polyamorous relationships.
My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in partnership. I provide a secure space for exploration, questioning, and rebuilding, while working with you to identify and clarify your values.
I am a therapist specialising in kink-aware and sex-positive support for individuals, couples, and those in open or polyamorous relationships.
My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in partnership. I provide a secure space for exploration, questioning, and rebuilding, while working with you to identify and clarify your values.
What I offer:
Trauma & Sexual Abuse
Men’s Mental Health
Anxiety & Depression
Anger & Emotional Regulation
LGBTQ+ Support & Kink-Aware Counselling
Relationships & Family Challenges
Self-Esteem & Confidence
Mindfulness & Coping Strategies
Youth & Knife Crime Support
Rehabilitation & Probation Support
I support people from all walks of life who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, trauma, or low self-esteem. Many seek a safe, non-judgemental space to talk, explore emotions, and find healthier ways forward. While my practice is open to everyone, I have a specialist focus on men’s mental health, offering a space where men can speak freely about pressures, identity, or past experiences. Together, we work towards greater clarity, resilience, and confidence in life.
What I offer:
Trauma & Sexual Abuse
Men’s Mental Health
Anxiety & Depression
Anger & Emotional Regulation
LGBTQ+ Support & Kink-Aware Counselling
Relationships & Family Challenges
Self-Esteem & Confidence
Mindfulness & Coping Strategies
Youth & Knife Crime Support
Rehabilitation & Probation Support
I support people from all walks of life who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, trauma, or low self-esteem. Many seek a safe, non-judgemental space to talk, explore emotions, and find healthier ways forward. While my practice is open to everyone, I have a specialist focus on men’s mental health, offering a space where men can speak freely about pressures, identity, or past experiences. Together, we work towards greater clarity, resilience, and confidence in life.
I am an experienced HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist working in the NHS and in the private sector. I am a trauma informed therapist, recognising that many people are trying their best to cope and live with the difficult life experiences they have been through. I understand the importance of the therapeutic relationship in finding a ‘good fit’ with a therapist. I enjoy working collaboratively and creatively with individuals and have experience in working with people with mild to severe mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychosis and personality difficulties.
I am an experienced HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist working in the NHS and in the private sector. I am a trauma informed therapist, recognising that many people are trying their best to cope and live with the difficult life experiences they have been through. I understand the importance of the therapeutic relationship in finding a ‘good fit’ with a therapist. I enjoy working collaboratively and creatively with individuals and have experience in working with people with mild to severe mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychosis and personality difficulties.
I have extensive experience of working with individuals, couples and groups since 2006. At this point I guess what really matters to you is deciding whether or not I am the right therapist for you. If so, please read on.
Availability: Monday, face to face, 7:30am - 8pm, Sowerby Bridge. Thursday, face to face, 10am -8pm, Sowerby Bridge. Online and phone appointments available at other times but daytime only.
I have extensive experience of working with individuals, couples and groups since 2006. At this point I guess what really matters to you is deciding whether or not I am the right therapist for you. If so, please read on.
Availability: Monday, face to face, 7:30am - 8pm, Sowerby Bridge. Thursday, face to face, 10am -8pm, Sowerby Bridge. Online and phone appointments available at other times but daytime only.
I can help you navigate complex family relationships and non-traditional romantic and sexual relationships as a non-monogamy and kink-informed practitioner.
As a qualified person-centred counsellor, I want to create an environment to help you identify the tools you need. I am here to lend a kind and compassionate ear and help you reflect on your experiences and feelings. CI want to be there to support you through the first steps or build on what you’ve already developed through previous counselling experiences.
As neurodiversity affirming counsellor from a background of working with young adults and adults with neurodiversities I have an understanding of masking, rejection sensitivity, executive functioning issues and many of the other presentations of Autism and ADHD.
I can help you navigate complex family relationships and non-traditional romantic and sexual relationships as a non-monogamy and kink-informed practitioner.
As a qualified person-centred counsellor, I want to create an environment to help you identify the tools you need. I am here to lend a kind and compassionate ear and help you reflect on your experiences and feelings. CI want to be there to support you through the first steps or build on what you’ve already developed through previous counselling experiences.
As neurodiversity affirming counsellor from a background of working with young adults and adults with neurodiversities I have an understanding of masking, rejection sensitivity, executive functioning issues and many of the other presentations of Autism and ADHD.
There are many reasons for considering therapy. Maybe you’re feeling lost or facing a personal crisis. Perhaps you’re struggling for purpose or meaning in your life? Or wanting to modify your behaviours or change destructive patterns. Therapy can support you as you explore your relationship with the world, helping you move from where you are now to where you want to be.
There are many reasons for considering therapy. Maybe you’re feeling lost or facing a personal crisis. Perhaps you’re struggling for purpose or meaning in your life? Or wanting to modify your behaviours or change destructive patterns. Therapy can support you as you explore your relationship with the world, helping you move from where you are now to where you want to be.
Nearby Sex-Positive, Kink Allied Counsellors Searches for Harrogate
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Why might an individual want to see a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist?
A sex-positive or kinky individual may want to see a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist because the client may feel safer and more supported discussing their experiences and challenges. A therapist who identifies as kink-friendly will have experience with clients having diverse sexual preferences and will likely be nonjudgmental and supportive about issues brought to the table. It is important to note that sex-positive, kink-allied individuals may find equal success with therapists who do not have such specialised knowledge and background. The most important factor in the success of therapy is for the client and practitioner to form a strong, trusting bond.
Do therapists have special training to gain expertise in sex-positive, kink-allied treatment?
Generally, no. There are limited training programs and unofficial accreditations that therapists can pursue, but a therapist’s expertise will ultimately come from their previous experience with similar clients, their engagement with organisations that promote sex positivity or kink-allied lifestyles, and the importance they place on safety and cultural sensitivity.
How can individuals recognise a good sex-positive, kink-allied therapist?
An experienced therapist is able to help clients explore their sexual identity and expression and relieve any discomfort or stigma attached to discussing such matters and the client’s overall challenges. A therapist who is sex-positive and kink-allied is able to create an environment that honors a client’s experience and sexual preferences. To recognise a good therapist, clients can simply ask directly about topics and issues important to them and gauge their comfort level and connection with a clinician based on the responses.
Can clients benefit from having a therapist with a focus on sex positivity and alternative sexual lifestyles?
Some individuals may feel most comfortable knowing that the clinician they’re working with has a commitment to creating an atmosphere of sex positivity and has experience with relationship diversity and alternative relationship structures. Working with a sex-positive, kink-allied therapist may help clients respect their own challenges and improve identity-affirming treatment.