LGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling in High Peak

Stu Roberts
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
I'm Stu, the Lead Therapist and Founder SJR Therapy. I’m passionate about mental health and firmly believe that counselling can change a persons life. I have a wealth of experience in lots of different areas - I worked in education for a number of years, as a counsellor and mentor to teaching staff and students and worked in the financial service industry before changing careers to counselling and psychotherapy. Having struggled with poor mental health myself and receiving therapy as a result, I can totally understand the nerves and anxiety that you may have before you embark on your therapeutic journey but you have nothing to fear.
I'm Stu, the Lead Therapist and Founder SJR Therapy. I’m passionate about mental health and firmly believe that counselling can change a persons life. I have a wealth of experience in lots of different areas - I worked in education for a number of years, as a counsellor and mentor to teaching staff and students and worked in the financial service industry before changing careers to counselling and psychotherapy. Having struggled with poor mental health myself and receiving therapy as a result, I can totally understand the nerves and anxiety that you may have before you embark on your therapeutic journey but you have nothing to fear.
01457 600890 View 01457 600890
Cath Foster
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I have experience of working with clients from varied backgrounds covering many different issues including bereavement and loss, stress, divorce, workplace bullying, low self esteem, LGBTQ+ issues and family disagreements.
We can work creatively, we can talk or we can be in silence - the space is yours for whatever you need. Everybody faces challenges in their lives and we don't always have the resources to cope on our own. In these moments, counselling can help.
I have experience of working with clients from varied backgrounds covering many different issues including bereavement and loss, stress, divorce, workplace bullying, low self esteem, LGBTQ+ issues and family disagreements.
We can work creatively, we can talk or we can be in silence - the space is yours for whatever you need. Everybody faces challenges in their lives and we don't always have the resources to cope on our own. In these moments, counselling can help.
01457 600692 View 01457 600692
Ailsa Parsons
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
High Peak SK22
Are you experiencing the effects of trauma, relational abuse, eating/body/lifestyle-related difficulties or neurodivergent overwhelm? These issues are my core specialisms, however I also support clients in creative and high‑pressure roles who are navigating burnout, identity shifts or chronic tension. Many clients come to me feeling stuck, burnt out or carrying long‑term stress as symptoms in their bodies. Some have tried to cope alone through research, journalling or self‑help but nothing has shifted enough. I offer a calm, grounded space where you can slow down, feel understood and begin to make sense of what is happening.
Are you experiencing the effects of trauma, relational abuse, eating/body/lifestyle-related difficulties or neurodivergent overwhelm? These issues are my core specialisms, however I also support clients in creative and high‑pressure roles who are navigating burnout, identity shifts or chronic tension. Many clients come to me feeling stuck, burnt out or carrying long‑term stress as symptoms in their bodies. Some have tried to cope alone through research, journalling or self‑help but nothing has shifted enough. I offer a calm, grounded space where you can slow down, feel understood and begin to make sense of what is happening.
01663 790140 View 01663 790140
Rionach Casey
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
High Peak SK22
Hello and a warm welcome to you. You may have been struggling with an emotional problem for many years or be feeling stressed, anxious or generally overwhelmed. It is important that you feel comfortable enough to talk through your difficulties with the right person. I am a Person-Centred psychotherapist and supervisor supporting adults, young people and children, including with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, loss, grief, trauma and abuse and relationship issues. My aim is to create a safe and supportive counselling environment that allows us to explore your concerns and enables you to work towards positive change.
Hello and a warm welcome to you. You may have been struggling with an emotional problem for many years or be feeling stressed, anxious or generally overwhelmed. It is important that you feel comfortable enough to talk through your difficulties with the right person. I am a Person-Centred psychotherapist and supervisor supporting adults, young people and children, including with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, loss, grief, trauma and abuse and relationship issues. My aim is to create a safe and supportive counselling environment that allows us to explore your concerns and enables you to work towards positive change.
01663 790769 View 01663 790769
Chloe Dawson
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm Chloe, and I'm neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQ+ inclusive.
I have cultivated and fused a varied knowledge base with my own lived experiences in order to anchor my practice. I'm experienced with neurodiversity and late diagnosis of ADHD/Autism, depression, anxiety, relationships and OCD. I also have experience and knowledge about working with trauma related to childbirth, infertility, abuse, chronic illness and more.
I'm Chloe, and I'm neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTQ+ inclusive.
I have cultivated and fused a varied knowledge base with my own lived experiences in order to anchor my practice. I'm experienced with neurodiversity and late diagnosis of ADHD/Autism, depression, anxiety, relationships and OCD. I also have experience and knowledge about working with trauma related to childbirth, infertility, abuse, chronic illness and more.
01663 794122 View 01663 794122
Rosa Campos-Fernandez
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
Hello! I am a friendly, down-to-earth therapist, passionate about the healing work of psychotherapy. Whether you are coming to therapy because of emotional, social or mental heath issues, I am always interested in listening to your own particular story, helping you gain a greater understanding of yourself an achieve a greater sense of well being. Alongside my formal training, I draw from a broad life experience including motherhood, growing up abroad and a career as a professional orchestral musician for the past 20 years, as well as my own therapeutic journey.
Hello! I am a friendly, down-to-earth therapist, passionate about the healing work of psychotherapy. Whether you are coming to therapy because of emotional, social or mental heath issues, I am always interested in listening to your own particular story, helping you gain a greater understanding of yourself an achieve a greater sense of well being. Alongside my formal training, I draw from a broad life experience including motherhood, growing up abroad and a career as a professional orchestral musician for the past 20 years, as well as my own therapeutic journey.
01457 600804 View 01457 600804

More Therapists Nearby

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.
View
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
Michelle Goldsmith
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Life can change in ways that leave you feeling untethered from who you were. Grief, divorce, illness, role changes, or other unexpected transitions can quietly reshape your identity, your relationships, and your sense of direction. You may be functioning on the outside while feeling overwhelmed, numb, or not quite like yourself underneath. You may be struggling to function and feel shame about not living up to who you once were. You might wonder whether what you’re experiencing is grief, anxiety, burnout, or something else entirely.
Life can change in ways that leave you feeling untethered from who you were. Grief, divorce, illness, role changes, or other unexpected transitions can quietly reshape your identity, your relationships, and your sense of direction. You may be functioning on the outside while feeling overwhelmed, numb, or not quite like yourself underneath. You may be struggling to function and feel shame about not living up to who you once were. You might wonder whether what you’re experiencing is grief, anxiety, burnout, or something else entirely.
01484 627691 View 01484 627691
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.
View
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
Charmini Glo
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Do your feelings overwhelm you? Is it hard to stay in control? Are you unkind to yourself? I understand how hard it is to ask for help. Untangling a lifetime of feelings and thoughts can be daunting, but with the right support you can identify those limiting patterns and change the beliefs, feelings, and responses holding you back from the life you want and the person you want to be. Choice comes from understanding yourself, then making the right changes. I understand how hard it can be to do that on your own. I will be with you on that journey, supporting and empowering you to move from self-awareness to real, lasting change
Do your feelings overwhelm you? Is it hard to stay in control? Are you unkind to yourself? I understand how hard it is to ask for help. Untangling a lifetime of feelings and thoughts can be daunting, but with the right support you can identify those limiting patterns and change the beliefs, feelings, and responses holding you back from the life you want and the person you want to be. Choice comes from understanding yourself, then making the right changes. I understand how hard it can be to do that on your own. I will be with you on that journey, supporting and empowering you to move from self-awareness to real, lasting change
0161 524 8377 View 0161 524 8377
Louise Dougill
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Clients come to me for support with a number of issues such as anxiety, neurodiversity struggles, relationship & sexual issues. I also specialise in working with Breast Cancer, terminal illness and grief (be it about yourself, or dealing with a loved one's diagnosis). Due to my longstanding corporate HR background, many clients also work with me to address work related issues such as confidence, imposter syndrome, toxic workplace relationships, low self esteem and exploring career potential. I am also accredited to use a number of psychometric tools which can provide additional solutions for clients to take away.
Clients come to me for support with a number of issues such as anxiety, neurodiversity struggles, relationship & sexual issues. I also specialise in working with Breast Cancer, terminal illness and grief (be it about yourself, or dealing with a loved one's diagnosis). Due to my longstanding corporate HR background, many clients also work with me to address work related issues such as confidence, imposter syndrome, toxic workplace relationships, low self esteem and exploring career potential. I am also accredited to use a number of psychometric tools which can provide additional solutions for clients to take away.
01977 806733 View 01977 806733
Virginia Toole
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
Are you navigating a period where life no longer feels familiar, after loss, separation, relocation, illness, or a major life transition? Perhaps you’ve been holding everything together for a long time, yet quietly feel unmoored, uncertain, or unlike yourself. You don’t have to face this period of change alone. I work with adults facing significant change who want a calm, thoughtful space to make sense of what has shifted. Many of the people I support are capable, reflective individuals who find themselves at an unexpected crossroads — grieving not only what has been lost, but questioning who they are now and how to move forward.
Are you navigating a period where life no longer feels familiar, after loss, separation, relocation, illness, or a major life transition? Perhaps you’ve been holding everything together for a long time, yet quietly feel unmoored, uncertain, or unlike yourself. You don’t have to face this period of change alone. I work with adults facing significant change who want a calm, thoughtful space to make sense of what has shifted. Many of the people I support are capable, reflective individuals who find themselves at an unexpected crossroads — grieving not only what has been lost, but questioning who they are now and how to move forward.
01254 781838 View 01254 781838
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
Rebecca Fox
Psychotherapist, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My lived experience as a queer, non-monogamous person lends itself to a deeper understanding and empathy of the experiences of queer ( LGBTQ+) and non-monogamous (inc. polyamorous) people.
Hello, I’m Rebecca. I will be by your side as you explore whatever you wish to share, accepting all parts of you and bringing all parts of myself. As a person-centred therapist I offer a space that is non-judgemental, open and supportive. I offer you space that is just for you, to have the time to be heard and express yourself. I'm passionate about social justice and embed this in my practice, curious about how your identities and life experiences are felt and perceived. Here, you are welcome and accepted.
My lived experience as a queer, non-monogamous person lends itself to a deeper understanding and empathy of the experiences of queer ( LGBTQ+) and non-monogamous (inc. polyamorous) people.
Hello, I’m Rebecca. I will be by your side as you explore whatever you wish to share, accepting all parts of you and bringing all parts of myself. As a person-centred therapist I offer a space that is non-judgemental, open and supportive. I offer you space that is just for you, to have the time to be heard and express yourself. I'm passionate about social justice and embed this in my practice, curious about how your identities and life experiences are felt and perceived. Here, you are welcome and accepted.
0161 524 6947 View 0161 524 6947
Grace McNally
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
I specialise in working with young people or adults affected by: • Adverse childhood experiences • Relationship difficulties • Self-worth issues • Self-esteem issues • Anxiety • Depression • Suicidal thoughts • Self-harm • Body shame • PTSD • Trauma I provide inclusive support for clients within the LGBTQ+ community, alongside neurodivergent individuals.
Hi, I’m Grace and I’m glad you’re here. I offer open-ended video/telephone therapy at your pace, focusing on what matters most to you. Together we will explore your emotions and experiences. As a humanistic therapist my role is to facilitate a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, feel truly heard, and reconnect with your own sense of self. Whatever you’re navigating I’m here to support you with warmth, respect, and honesty. • Free 15-minute initial consultation • Confidential online video/telephone sessions for adults and children. • Specialised, experienced psychotherapy • Open-ended
I specialise in working with young people or adults affected by: • Adverse childhood experiences • Relationship difficulties • Self-worth issues • Self-esteem issues • Anxiety • Depression • Suicidal thoughts • Self-harm • Body shame • PTSD • Trauma I provide inclusive support for clients within the LGBTQ+ community, alongside neurodivergent individuals.
Hi, I’m Grace and I’m glad you’re here. I offer open-ended video/telephone therapy at your pace, focusing on what matters most to you. Together we will explore your emotions and experiences. As a humanistic therapist my role is to facilitate a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, feel truly heard, and reconnect with your own sense of self. Whatever you’re navigating I’m here to support you with warmth, respect, and honesty. • Free 15-minute initial consultation • Confidential online video/telephone sessions for adults and children. • Specialised, experienced psychotherapy • Open-ended
01506 539562 View 01506 539562
Amanda Webster
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Matlock DE4
Amanda has a natural connection with people and is working well with those with ASD and ADHD and has been working for 4 years with various levels of need - she was diagnosed 3 year, so gets it - Amanda works with the LGBTQAI+ community and specialises in helping those through the transition process. She is a fully trained hypnotherapist, who uses hypnosis if and when a client wants to try it - we have great success with combined therapies- Amanda also works with families to cope with family issues and couples who wish to solve marital issues if you wish to know more please feel free to look at my website (being updated at the mo)
Amanda has a natural connection with people and is working well with those with ASD and ADHD and has been working for 4 years with various levels of need - she was diagnosed 3 year, so gets it - Amanda works with the LGBTQAI+ community and specialises in helping those through the transition process. She is a fully trained hypnotherapist, who uses hypnosis if and when a client wants to try it - we have great success with combined therapies- Amanda also works with families to cope with family issues and couples who wish to solve marital issues if you wish to know more please feel free to look at my website (being updated at the mo)
020 3856 3533 View 020 3856 3533
Joy Becker
Psychotherapist, BACP
1 Endorsed
With particular experience in LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergence & the Performing Arts, I offer a compassionate, sincere and confidential space for individuals and couples to work through their experiences.
My core approach is rooted in Transactional Analysis and Integrative Psychotherapy; humanistic and relational frameworks which look at how the past might be living in the 'here & now'. Together in therapy we will learn about you, and what you need to flourish in the world.
With particular experience in LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergence & the Performing Arts, I offer a compassionate, sincere and confidential space for individuals and couples to work through their experiences.
My core approach is rooted in Transactional Analysis and Integrative Psychotherapy; humanistic and relational frameworks which look at how the past might be living in the 'here & now'. Together in therapy we will learn about you, and what you need to flourish in the world.
0161 524 3788 View 0161 524 3788
Lisa Howarth Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Together, we can make sense of how protective strategies and early experiences may shape your present. Do you find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with intimacy, conflict, or anxiety? Warm and down-to-earth, I'm a qualified counsellor and psychosexual & relational therapist, and have helped many clients make meaningful, lasting changes leading to a calmer, more fulfilling life. If you're experiencing life changes such as separation, menopause, difficulties in relationships, the impact of trauma, or sexual difficulties such as painful sex or low desire, I can help. I work with adults of all sexualities and relationship styles.
Together, we can make sense of how protective strategies and early experiences may shape your present. Do you find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with intimacy, conflict, or anxiety? Warm and down-to-earth, I'm a qualified counsellor and psychosexual & relational therapist, and have helped many clients make meaningful, lasting changes leading to a calmer, more fulfilling life. If you're experiencing life changes such as separation, menopause, difficulties in relationships, the impact of trauma, or sexual difficulties such as painful sex or low desire, I can help. I work with adults of all sexualities and relationship styles.
0161 524 5095 View 0161 524 5095
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.