LGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling in Leamington Spa

Photo of Paul Avery, Counsellor, MBACP
Paul Avery
Counsellor, MBACP
Hi, I’m Paul, a person-centred counsellor working in Leamington Spa and online, with particular experience in addiction and LGBTQ+ issues.
Our process is shaped around your priorities, in your sessions and in life. I don't come with an agenda or fixed ideas about who you should be. When you can allow yourself to be truly known, and are met with curiosity and acceptance, something tends to shift in how you think, feel, and choose to live. We’ll know it’s working when you start to need it less.
Hi, I’m Paul, a person-centred counsellor working in Leamington Spa and online, with particular experience in addiction and LGBTQ+ issues.
Our process is shaped around your priorities, in your sessions and in life. I don't come with an agenda or fixed ideas about who you should be. When you can allow yourself to be truly known, and are met with curiosity and acceptance, something tends to shift in how you think, feel, and choose to live. We’ll know it’s working when you start to need it less.
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Photo of Edd Howard, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Edd Howard
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I work with men who experience intrusive anxious thoughts that can sometimes set them into a spiral or down a rabbit hole of overthinking. These thoughts can come out of nowhere, feel hard to switch off and and take you away from things that are important to you, like feeling present with your family, friends or partner. Most of the men I support are high-functioning but exhausted. They're managing pressures with work, responsibilities at home and a mind that won't slow down. This can be tough. I help men steady their thoughts and build practical tools to feel calmer and more in control.
I work with men who experience intrusive anxious thoughts that can sometimes set them into a spiral or down a rabbit hole of overthinking. These thoughts can come out of nowhere, feel hard to switch off and and take you away from things that are important to you, like feeling present with your family, friends or partner. Most of the men I support are high-functioning but exhausted. They're managing pressures with work, responsibilities at home and a mind that won't slow down. This can be tough. I help men steady their thoughts and build practical tools to feel calmer and more in control.
01544 304295 View 01544 304295
Photo of Jackie R Charley-Farrall, Counsellor, BACP
Jackie R Charley-Farrall
Counsellor, BACP
Serves Area
I have an interest in helping people who suffered spiritual abuse, and am an LGBTQ+ alIy.
The best gift I can offer you is a willingness to listen deeply and pay careful attention to your concerns. Counselling can sometimes feel like trying to unravel a tangled ball of wool: you’re not sure where the end is, and have no clue how to begin. Often you don’t know how you got here, or where you’re going. But you just feel something needs to change. I will sit with you in the chaos and uncertainty believing that, whilst I may be an expert in some things, you are the expert in You. I will endeavour to see the world as you see it – through your eyes - so that together we can start to make sense of the things that trouble you.
I have an interest in helping people who suffered spiritual abuse, and am an LGBTQ+ alIy.
The best gift I can offer you is a willingness to listen deeply and pay careful attention to your concerns. Counselling can sometimes feel like trying to unravel a tangled ball of wool: you’re not sure where the end is, and have no clue how to begin. Often you don’t know how you got here, or where you’re going. But you just feel something needs to change. I will sit with you in the chaos and uncertainty believing that, whilst I may be an expert in some things, you are the expert in You. I will endeavour to see the world as you see it – through your eyes - so that together we can start to make sense of the things that trouble you.
01926 352538 View 01926 352538
Photo of Corrina Wooldridge, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Corrina Wooldridge
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
3 Endorsed
You may look like you’re coping on the outside, but inside you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or constantly questioning yourself. Perhaps your mind rarely switches off, you feel driven to get everything “right”, or a harsh inner critic tells you you’re not good enough. You might also notice the same painful patterns showing up in relationships, leaving you feeling stuck, misunderstood, or not quite like yourself. Therapy can offer a space where you don’t have to hold everything together alone.
You may look like you’re coping on the outside, but inside you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or constantly questioning yourself. Perhaps your mind rarely switches off, you feel driven to get everything “right”, or a harsh inner critic tells you you’re not good enough. You might also notice the same painful patterns showing up in relationships, leaving you feeling stuck, misunderstood, or not quite like yourself. Therapy can offer a space where you don’t have to hold everything together alone.
01926 895659 View 01926 895659
Photo of Lauren Sidhu, Counsellor, MBACP
Lauren Sidhu
Counsellor, MBACP
Counselling can provide a space to slow down, reflect, and begin to understand what’s happening beneath the surface—in a way that respects your pace. I support healing from difficult thoughts and emotions, exploring the deeper roots of what you’re experiencing, and building practical tools to care for your wellbeing beyond counselling. My approach is holistic, integrative, and tailored to you, with the goal of creating sustainable wellbeing. I work with adults, young people, and couples. If you’re unsure about counselling, an initial chat or session offers an opportunity to explore whether this feels like the right fit for you.
Counselling can provide a space to slow down, reflect, and begin to understand what’s happening beneath the surface—in a way that respects your pace. I support healing from difficult thoughts and emotions, exploring the deeper roots of what you’re experiencing, and building practical tools to care for your wellbeing beyond counselling. My approach is holistic, integrative, and tailored to you, with the goal of creating sustainable wellbeing. I work with adults, young people, and couples. If you’re unsure about counselling, an initial chat or session offers an opportunity to explore whether this feels like the right fit for you.
01926 351713 View 01926 351713
Photo of Fiona de Swardt, Psychotherapist, BACP
Fiona de Swardt
Psychotherapist, BACP
I understand that considering to approach someone to discuss private and intimate matters is not easy, but this can be life changing. Experiencing emotional difficulties that affect your moods and behaviour are more common than you think. This can significantly impact a wide range of aspects in your day-to-day life and relationships. Therapy is often an effective way to reach a better understanding of yourself and the causes of your emotional discomfort. It may also help you to find the best way forward to overcome challenges and move on to experience meaningful life improvements simultaneously alleviating pressures and stress.
I understand that considering to approach someone to discuss private and intimate matters is not easy, but this can be life changing. Experiencing emotional difficulties that affect your moods and behaviour are more common than you think. This can significantly impact a wide range of aspects in your day-to-day life and relationships. Therapy is often an effective way to reach a better understanding of yourself and the causes of your emotional discomfort. It may also help you to find the best way forward to overcome challenges and move on to experience meaningful life improvements simultaneously alleviating pressures and stress.
01926 351762 View 01926 351762
Photo of Clair Ray, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Clair Ray
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself? If you find yourself repeating unhelpful patterns, feeling you’re on joyless autopilot, or struggling to feel authentic in your work and relationships, you’re not alone. Many of my clients are professionals, creatives and parents who feel anxious emotionally stretched, burnt out, or uncertain about how to make meaningful change. As a Gestalt therapist, I work with you to explore how you show up in the world and in relationships and why certain patterns keep repeating. We look at the deeper roots of your struggles and together work towards healing.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself? If you find yourself repeating unhelpful patterns, feeling you’re on joyless autopilot, or struggling to feel authentic in your work and relationships, you’re not alone. Many of my clients are professionals, creatives and parents who feel anxious emotionally stretched, burnt out, or uncertain about how to make meaningful change. As a Gestalt therapist, I work with you to explore how you show up in the world and in relationships and why certain patterns keep repeating. We look at the deeper roots of your struggles and together work towards healing.
01926 963152 View 01926 963152
Photo of Hannah Mackenzie, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Hannah Mackenzie
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Psychotherapist in Leamington Spa. Featured in Psychologies, Stylist, the i Paper, Women’s Health and VICE. Hi, I’m Hannah. One thing I love about my job is creating a space where people can get to know the parts of themselves they have long buried or feared to share with another person. I have seen good therapy be completely life changing, whether you want to feel more truly yourself, gain self-confidence, have more satisfying relationships or simply stop hating yourself. Please feel free to get in touch, even if you’re worried what is troubling you is not bad enough, too bad, embarrassing, messy or not very nice.
Psychotherapist in Leamington Spa. Featured in Psychologies, Stylist, the i Paper, Women’s Health and VICE. Hi, I’m Hannah. One thing I love about my job is creating a space where people can get to know the parts of themselves they have long buried or feared to share with another person. I have seen good therapy be completely life changing, whether you want to feel more truly yourself, gain self-confidence, have more satisfying relationships or simply stop hating yourself. Please feel free to get in touch, even if you’re worried what is troubling you is not bad enough, too bad, embarrassing, messy or not very nice.
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Photo of Sonya Price, Counsellor, MBACP
Sonya Price
Counsellor, MBACP
Hello my name is Sonya, I am a CBT therapist (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy). Sometimes in life we all get to a point where we just need to reach out. I can offer you time to listen effectively in a comfortable, safe, and confidential environment. Working with CBT enables you to talk about your feelings and emotions in situations as they may affect our behaviours and by recognising this we can adapt some change. Being able to express your feelings or presenting issue may be difficult especially to loved ones, family and friends. Reach Out will empower you to contribute to your well-being, sense of belonging, and self worth in Therapy.
Hello my name is Sonya, I am a CBT therapist (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy). Sometimes in life we all get to a point where we just need to reach out. I can offer you time to listen effectively in a comfortable, safe, and confidential environment. Working with CBT enables you to talk about your feelings and emotions in situations as they may affect our behaviours and by recognising this we can adapt some change. Being able to express your feelings or presenting issue may be difficult especially to loved ones, family and friends. Reach Out will empower you to contribute to your well-being, sense of belonging, and self worth in Therapy.
01926 958240 View 01926 958240
Photo of Meg Harper, Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Meg Harper
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Welcome! Are you looking for someone who listens with empathy but who will also intervene with strategies and tools during sessions? For tasks and experiments to carry out between sessions? My approach is both interactive and practical. I aim to thoroughly understand the issues and then to help adults, teenagers and couples towards creative change through a variety of approaches, tailored to their particular situations. I also offer supervision to other therapists. You can book a free 20 minute phone call to 'check me out' and for me to assess whether I think I can help you. After that sessions are 1 hour, usually fortnightly.
Welcome! Are you looking for someone who listens with empathy but who will also intervene with strategies and tools during sessions? For tasks and experiments to carry out between sessions? My approach is both interactive and practical. I aim to thoroughly understand the issues and then to help adults, teenagers and couples towards creative change through a variety of approaches, tailored to their particular situations. I also offer supervision to other therapists. You can book a free 20 minute phone call to 'check me out' and for me to assess whether I think I can help you. After that sessions are 1 hour, usually fortnightly.
01926 963972 View 01926 963972
Photo of Daryl Nicholas - Daryl Nicholas Counselling and Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
As an Integrative counsellor and psychotherapist, I have undergone extensive training which brings together effective contemporary approaches to therapy, drawing from a variety of models to suit your individual needs. I have over sixteen years experience supporting adults and young people to address a range of issues, including: anxiety/panic, depression, stress, loss and bereavement, identity issues, sexuality, trauma/abuse, low self-esteem, relationship issues, life transitions and careers and life direction. I also offer the comprehensive 'INSIGHT self-discovery programmes' (visit darylnicholas.com for more details).
As an Integrative counsellor and psychotherapist, I have undergone extensive training which brings together effective contemporary approaches to therapy, drawing from a variety of models to suit your individual needs. I have over sixteen years experience supporting adults and young people to address a range of issues, including: anxiety/panic, depression, stress, loss and bereavement, identity issues, sexuality, trauma/abuse, low self-esteem, relationship issues, life transitions and careers and life direction. I also offer the comprehensive 'INSIGHT self-discovery programmes' (visit darylnicholas.com for more details).
01926 800596 View 01926 800596
Photo of Debbie Wiles, Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
Debbie Wiles
Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
1 Endorsed
Deciding to make a change takes courage and, although it can be daunting, it is also rewarding. In counselling, we will work together in a trusting, honest, environment. We can explore how your experiences have shaped you, develop more self awareness, resilience and crucially, self compassion. If you are feeling stuck, anxious, alone or overwhelmed, therapy could be the space you need. My approach is collaborative, honest and kind. Through talking in a non judgemental, reflective environment, you can be heard and make profound changes in your life.
Deciding to make a change takes courage and, although it can be daunting, it is also rewarding. In counselling, we will work together in a trusting, honest, environment. We can explore how your experiences have shaped you, develop more self awareness, resilience and crucially, self compassion. If you are feeling stuck, anxious, alone or overwhelmed, therapy could be the space you need. My approach is collaborative, honest and kind. Through talking in a non judgemental, reflective environment, you can be heard and make profound changes in your life.
01926 293551 View 01926 293551
Photo of Sasha Hvidsten, Psychiatrist
Sasha Hvidsten
Psychiatrist
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist and see patients for concerns such as ADHD, autism and Tourettes / tic disorders. I work with a team of nurses and therapists to deliver a holistic approach to suit your needs. We have a clinic within a period property in the worcestershire countryside that is quiet and relaxing. We offer assessment and treatment, for autism, ADHD, anxiety and depression, Tics and Tourette's, The correct diagnosis is really important in order to get the right help. Our support doesn't end with diagnosis - we are here until you don't need us anymore.
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist and see patients for concerns such as ADHD, autism and Tourettes / tic disorders. I work with a team of nurses and therapists to deliver a holistic approach to suit your needs. We have a clinic within a period property in the worcestershire countryside that is quiet and relaxing. We offer assessment and treatment, for autism, ADHD, anxiety and depression, Tics and Tourette's, The correct diagnosis is really important in order to get the right help. Our support doesn't end with diagnosis - we are here until you don't need us anymore.
01527 919209 View 01527 919209
Photo of Rita Squarza, Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Rita Squarza
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Hello, I’m Dr Rita, a Chartered Psychologist and Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society, and a UKCP-registered Full Clinical Psychotherapist. I am also a Certified Transactional Analyst (CTA; UKATA & EATA qualified member), a Certified Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), and a Jungian Coach. I offer personalised integrative therapy for adults and young adults—students, staff, couples, or anyone facing stress, anxiety, life transitions, or relationship challenges. I help you feel grounded, gain clarity, and build healthier relationships. Available near the University of Warwick, Coventry, and surrounding areas.
Hello, I’m Dr Rita, a Chartered Psychologist and Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society, and a UKCP-registered Full Clinical Psychotherapist. I am also a Certified Transactional Analyst (CTA; UKATA & EATA qualified member), a Certified Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), and a Jungian Coach. I offer personalised integrative therapy for adults and young adults—students, staff, couples, or anyone facing stress, anxiety, life transitions, or relationship challenges. I help you feel grounded, gain clarity, and build healthier relationships. Available near the University of Warwick, Coventry, and surrounding areas.
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Photo of Nicky Adams - Bright Futures Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Bright Futures Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
Specialising in working with young people aged 11-18 years. Counselling Service for Young People, Adults and Couples in Nottingham and Stratford Upon Avon. Nicky Adams MBACP, BA(Hons), MNCPS Acc). Counsellor / Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. I am a fully qualified, registered and insured Counsellor. DBS checked. If life is a struggle right now, get in touch and we can work together to make life happier.. I am an integrative therapist, working in a solution / client centred way using a range of approaches including CBT and Mindfulness to help relieve your emotional distress.
Specialising in working with young people aged 11-18 years. Counselling Service for Young People, Adults and Couples in Nottingham and Stratford Upon Avon. Nicky Adams MBACP, BA(Hons), MNCPS Acc). Counsellor / Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. I am a fully qualified, registered and insured Counsellor. DBS checked. If life is a struggle right now, get in touch and we can work together to make life happier.. I am an integrative therapist, working in a solution / client centred way using a range of approaches including CBT and Mindfulness to help relieve your emotional distress.
01789 331117 View 01789 331117
Photo of Dr Alice Morey, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Alice Morey
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As an accredited Clinical Psychologist, I am passionate about supporting people’s mental wellbeing. I have 10 years of experience in psychological services, and more recently I have worked in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), Great Ormond Street Hospital and Birmingham Children’s Hospital. I am particularly dedicated to working with children and adolescents, people who are neurodivergent, and those with chronic illness. I can offer therapy to people of all ages, including adults, children (and parents) and adolescents.
As an accredited Clinical Psychologist, I am passionate about supporting people’s mental wellbeing. I have 10 years of experience in psychological services, and more recently I have worked in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), Great Ormond Street Hospital and Birmingham Children’s Hospital. I am particularly dedicated to working with children and adolescents, people who are neurodivergent, and those with chronic illness. I can offer therapy to people of all ages, including adults, children (and parents) and adolescents.
01564 331443 View 01564 331443
Photo of Ann-Marie Brown, Counsellor, MBACP
Ann-Marie Brown
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed and struggling to manage your emotions? Or are you a parent who has observed changes in your child's emotional wellbeing and are looking to get them some support. I can meet you where you are at in your life and support you to make/achieve changes that you wish too. I can help you do this by supporting you to set realistic/achievable goals for yourself and then assist you in making these goals happen.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and struggling to manage your emotions? Or are you a parent who has observed changes in your child's emotional wellbeing and are looking to get them some support. I can meet you where you are at in your life and support you to make/achieve changes that you wish too. I can help you do this by supporting you to set realistic/achievable goals for yourself and then assist you in making these goals happen.
01926 895145 View 01926 895145
Photo of Julia Brewer, Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Julia Brewer
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
I'm an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist and BPS Chartered Psychologist. With 14 years clinical experience including 10 years offering psychological therapy in the NHS, I am experienced in working with a wide range of issues (see below). I have extensive experience working with trans and non-binary clients and my special interests are perinatal mental health and therapy in nature. As a Counselling Psychologist I'm trained in various psychotherapeutic approaches and therapy-related research. This enables me to work with you to find an approach that works best for you as a unique individual with your unique life experiences.
I'm an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist and BPS Chartered Psychologist. With 14 years clinical experience including 10 years offering psychological therapy in the NHS, I am experienced in working with a wide range of issues (see below). I have extensive experience working with trans and non-binary clients and my special interests are perinatal mental health and therapy in nature. As a Counselling Psychologist I'm trained in various psychotherapeutic approaches and therapy-related research. This enables me to work with you to find an approach that works best for you as a unique individual with your unique life experiences.
024 7542 4876 View 024 7542 4876
Photo of Martyn Blair, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Martyn Blair
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
Overwhelmed, stuck, or finding it hard to cope alone? Take the first step towards feeling more like yourself again and get in touch. I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgemental space where you can feel heard and understood. I also offer creative approaches and animal assisted therapy for those who connect with nature, creativity, or the calming presence of animals. Therapy is always tailored to you and your choices. I am trauma-informed and have additional training in children and young people’s counselling, supporting a wide range of emotional and mental health difficulties across all age groups
Overwhelmed, stuck, or finding it hard to cope alone? Take the first step towards feeling more like yourself again and get in touch. I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgemental space where you can feel heard and understood. I also offer creative approaches and animal assisted therapy for those who connect with nature, creativity, or the calming presence of animals. Therapy is always tailored to you and your choices. I am trauma-informed and have additional training in children and young people’s counselling, supporting a wide range of emotional and mental health difficulties across all age groups
0121 816 0347 View 0121 816 0347
Photo of Tony Pleasance, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Tony Pleasance
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
I work with adults of all backgrounds and regularly supporting people who are neurodivergent, from the LGBTQ+ community, and those in later life.
I help people move forward after difficult life experiences, burnout, anxiety and trauma. Together we’ll agree clear goals, then build practical coping strategies so you make steady progress at your pace. I use CBT, EMDR and ACT to help people feel more confident, capable, and able to move towards the life they want to live.
I work with adults of all backgrounds and regularly supporting people who are neurodivergent, from the LGBTQ+ community, and those in later life.
I help people move forward after difficult life experiences, burnout, anxiety and trauma. Together we’ll agree clear goals, then build practical coping strategies so you make steady progress at your pace. I use CBT, EMDR and ACT to help people feel more confident, capable, and able to move towards the life they want to live.
024 7542 0485 View 024 7542 0485
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.