Lesbian Counselling in Leigh-on-Sea

Tanya Lee
Psychotherapist, MHGI
Are you looking for effective help to deal with trauma, panic and anxiety? Are you fed up with labels and diagnoses that do nothing to resolve the symptoms and pain that you're suffering with? CPTSD, PTSD, GAD and BPD are labels that define your symptoms, but that don't tackle the cause or do anything useful to relieve them. I specialise in helping people with anxiety and PSTD and have helped many people just like you, who have been struggling, sometimes for decades. I won't dredge up unnecessary past experiences - I only work with what is relevant. Also if you prefer, you won't have to speak in detail about your issue.
Are you looking for effective help to deal with trauma, panic and anxiety? Are you fed up with labels and diagnoses that do nothing to resolve the symptoms and pain that you're suffering with? CPTSD, PTSD, GAD and BPD are labels that define your symptoms, but that don't tackle the cause or do anything useful to relieve them. I specialise in helping people with anxiety and PSTD and have helped many people just like you, who have been struggling, sometimes for decades. I won't dredge up unnecessary past experiences - I only work with what is relevant. Also if you prefer, you won't have to speak in detail about your issue.
01702 410074 View 01702 410074
Natasha Sutton
Counsellor, MSc, GMBPsS
My therapeutic experience has been shaped by my work within the NHS, where I have supported children, young people and adults experiencing a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties. Working within healthcare has given me a strong understanding of the complexities of mental health, addictions and the importance of seeing the person behind the symptoms. I bring this experience into my private practice, Beach House Therapy, a warm compassionate and non-judgement space to feel heard understood and supported. Alongside counselling I offer hypnotherapy and breathwork, allowing us to explore alternative options of therapy.
My therapeutic experience has been shaped by my work within the NHS, where I have supported children, young people and adults experiencing a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties. Working within healthcare has given me a strong understanding of the complexities of mental health, addictions and the importance of seeing the person behind the symptoms. I bring this experience into my private practice, Beach House Therapy, a warm compassionate and non-judgement space to feel heard understood and supported. Alongside counselling I offer hypnotherapy and breathwork, allowing us to explore alternative options of therapy.
01702 655220 View 01702 655220
Laura Buckingham
Counsellor, MBACP
Welcome, My name is Laura, I am a fully qualified Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor offering both long and short-term therapy. We are all presented with many different challenges in all aspects of our daily lives, including work, health, relationships and with our own well-being. Reaching out for help can often feel overwhelming, however, the rewards in taking that difficult first step can be life-changing. I have experience and successfully worked with those suffering with depression, anxiety, loneliness, loss & grief domestic abuse, suicidal thoughts and chronic illness amongst various other issues.
Welcome, My name is Laura, I am a fully qualified Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor offering both long and short-term therapy. We are all presented with many different challenges in all aspects of our daily lives, including work, health, relationships and with our own well-being. Reaching out for help can often feel overwhelming, however, the rewards in taking that difficult first step can be life-changing. I have experience and successfully worked with those suffering with depression, anxiety, loneliness, loss & grief domestic abuse, suicidal thoughts and chronic illness amongst various other issues.
01268 437439 View 01268 437439
Yvette White
Counsellor, BACP
2 Endorsed
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed or stuck in patterns that keep repeating? Perhaps you appear to be coping on the outside but feel very different inside. You may be struggling with low mood, trauma, low self-esteem or a lot difficult life transition. If you are coming as a couple, you may feel disconnected, caught in recurring arguments or unsure how to move forward. I offer a warm, confidential and non-judgemental space where individuals and couples can feel heard, understand what is happening beneath the surface and begin creating meaningful change.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed or stuck in patterns that keep repeating? Perhaps you appear to be coping on the outside but feel very different inside. You may be struggling with low mood, trauma, low self-esteem or a lot difficult life transition. If you are coming as a couple, you may feel disconnected, caught in recurring arguments or unsure how to move forward. I offer a warm, confidential and non-judgemental space where individuals and couples can feel heard, understand what is happening beneath the surface and begin creating meaningful change.
01702 967863 View 01702 967863
Duncan Ashley Paveling
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
I am a qualified (MBACP Registered) Counsellor/Supervisor with over 18 years experience working with individuals of all ages (both adults and young people), with an eclectic approach in line with the BACP Ethical Framework. My work includes that with Individuals, Couples and Families, whilst experience has also led me to run regular workshops and support groups. I also have extensive and ongoing experience in both the Media/Sporting industries and in the area of Neurodiversity.
I am a qualified (MBACP Registered) Counsellor/Supervisor with over 18 years experience working with individuals of all ages (both adults and young people), with an eclectic approach in line with the BACP Ethical Framework. My work includes that with Individuals, Couples and Families, whilst experience has also led me to run regular workshops and support groups. I also have extensive and ongoing experience in both the Media/Sporting industries and in the area of Neurodiversity.
01702 967513 View 01702 967513
Dr Michalla Gillbanks
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I am a qualified clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience working within NHS and private sectors. I have experience working with adults and young people experiencing a range of mental health difficulties. I take time to get to know you and your presenting issues taking into consideration past experiences, family dynamics and issues that you feel need addressing or are holding you back. We would then develop a person centered care plan to best suit your goals. I am experienced in dealing with a range of mental health conditions along with more exploratory work and have a special interest in neurodiversity and mental health
I am a qualified clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience working within NHS and private sectors. I have experience working with adults and young people experiencing a range of mental health difficulties. I take time to get to know you and your presenting issues taking into consideration past experiences, family dynamics and issues that you feel need addressing or are holding you back. We would then develop a person centered care plan to best suit your goals. I am experienced in dealing with a range of mental health conditions along with more exploratory work and have a special interest in neurodiversity and mental health
01702 908337 View 01702 908337
The Water Tower Therapy Centre Specialist Therapy
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Taking the first step to seek support can feel daunting, especially when trauma, grief, or emotional difficulty leaves you feeling stuck or overwhelmed. You don’t have to carry this alone. At The Water Tower Therapy Centre, our experienced therapists work with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship and couples issues, and complex grief. We offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space tailored to your needs. When you get in touch, we’ll match you with the therapist best suited to you. Looking after your mental health can improve your relationships, confidence, and sense of purpose. If you’re ready, we can help.
Taking the first step to seek support can feel daunting, especially when trauma, grief, or emotional difficulty leaves you feeling stuck or overwhelmed. You don’t have to carry this alone. At The Water Tower Therapy Centre, our experienced therapists work with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship and couples issues, and complex grief. We offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space tailored to your needs. When you get in touch, we’ll match you with the therapist best suited to you. Looking after your mental health can improve your relationships, confidence, and sense of purpose. If you’re ready, we can help.
07480 534951 View 07480 534951
Emma Litman
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a BACP and EMDR Counsellor offering face to face, online and telephone counselling. My clients say that I'm very easy to talk to, warm and friendly. I can help you to explore your issues to help you gain awareness, understanding and get to a place or acceptance of a situation you are struggling with. I am also a qualified NLP and EFT coach offering specific techniques suited to working with any issues related to trauma, depression & anxiety.
I am a BACP and EMDR Counsellor offering face to face, online and telephone counselling. My clients say that I'm very easy to talk to, warm and friendly. I can help you to explore your issues to help you gain awareness, understanding and get to a place or acceptance of a situation you are struggling with. I am also a qualified NLP and EFT coach offering specific techniques suited to working with any issues related to trauma, depression & anxiety.
01268 437498 View 01268 437498
Terry Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If this is your first time coming into therapy, welcome. I know it can be daunting, but please remember you’ve made a decision to help yourself and that is a massive step in itself. Living these days can be very difficult for some people on a daily basis without any other stress, pressure, demands, anxiety, or feelings of being overwhelming coming into the mix. We all need a little help from time to time and I am here to help you not have to carry those heavy burdens alone. My main focus is on you; your aims, your truth, the real you, you feel you longer can be and how we can work together to get you back on track.
If this is your first time coming into therapy, welcome. I know it can be daunting, but please remember you’ve made a decision to help yourself and that is a massive step in itself. Living these days can be very difficult for some people on a daily basis without any other stress, pressure, demands, anxiety, or feelings of being overwhelming coming into the mix. We all need a little help from time to time and I am here to help you not have to carry those heavy burdens alone. My main focus is on you; your aims, your truth, the real you, you feel you longer can be and how we can work together to get you back on track.
01245 950341 View 01245 950341
Robert J M Dodds
Counsellor
Online Only
I’m interested in what works for you. I offer bespoke online therapy services tailored specifically for you. Whether you’re with me for counselling, long term psychodynamic therapy, or couple’s counselling, I’ll tailor my approach to meet your needs. I offer an honest, judgement-free approach and I can assist you in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself.
I’m interested in what works for you. I offer bespoke online therapy services tailored specifically for you. Whether you’re with me for counselling, long term psychodynamic therapy, or couple’s counselling, I’ll tailor my approach to meet your needs. I offer an honest, judgement-free approach and I can assist you in gaining a deeper understanding of yourself.
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Simon Uskuri
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
"The hardest step is making the call, the most rewarding step is knowing that you're in control again." Welcome, my name is Simon, I am a highly qualified friendly experienced Counsellor. I am a accredited member of the BACP and follow the ethical framework. I have worked successfully with individuals from various backgrounds and ages around Essex for a number of years. What I can offer you is a safe space that is confidential and nonjudgmental where you can truly be listened to and within that space we together can explore and find the answers you are searching for.
"The hardest step is making the call, the most rewarding step is knowing that you're in control again." Welcome, my name is Simon, I am a highly qualified friendly experienced Counsellor. I am a accredited member of the BACP and follow the ethical framework. I have worked successfully with individuals from various backgrounds and ages around Essex for a number of years. What I can offer you is a safe space that is confidential and nonjudgmental where you can truly be listened to and within that space we together can explore and find the answers you are searching for.
01702 683020 View 01702 683020
Dr Chancy Marsh
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a chartered clinical psychologist with 15 years experience in mental health. Whilst working in the NHS, I have set up The Sycamore Private Practice so that people outside of mental health services can access support. I have worked with people, who have benefited from making sense of difficult or/and frightening experiences, improving their mood or lowering anxiety. If you would like a safe place in order to understand more about what is going on for you, or perhaps have specific areas that need a focus, we can do this together and at a pace that suits you. I have listed my areas of expertise and experience as a guide for you.
I am a chartered clinical psychologist with 15 years experience in mental health. Whilst working in the NHS, I have set up The Sycamore Private Practice so that people outside of mental health services can access support. I have worked with people, who have benefited from making sense of difficult or/and frightening experiences, improving their mood or lowering anxiety. If you would like a safe place in order to understand more about what is going on for you, or perhaps have specific areas that need a focus, we can do this together and at a pace that suits you. I have listed my areas of expertise and experience as a guide for you.
01702 418809 View 01702 418809
Lorraine Anne Bygrave
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
My ideal clients are adults carrying the weight of childhood trauma, complex grief, or attachment wounds — often survivors of abuse, adoptees, or those stuck between grief and acceptance after loss. They come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unable to move forward despite years of trying. Using EMDR, IFS-informed approaches, and IADC Therapy, I help process unresolved trauma, release stuck grief, and address root causes rather than just symptoms. For those wanting faster results, I offer intensive therapy — three hours daily over three days. Together, we work towards lasting change, so you can finally move forward.
My ideal clients are adults carrying the weight of childhood trauma, complex grief, or attachment wounds — often survivors of abuse, adoptees, or those stuck between grief and acceptance after loss. They come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unable to move forward despite years of trying. Using EMDR, IFS-informed approaches, and IADC Therapy, I help process unresolved trauma, release stuck grief, and address root causes rather than just symptoms. For those wanting faster results, I offer intensive therapy — three hours daily over three days. Together, we work towards lasting change, so you can finally move forward.
07723 458132 View 07723 458132

More Therapists Nearby

Cole Ruegg
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults who are experiencing difficulties in their relationships, sense of self, or emotional wellbeing, whether that shows up as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or a feeling that the same painful patterns keep repeating. I also welcome people working in high-pressure professional environments who are experiencing stress, burnout, or a growing sense that something needs to change. I welcome people from all backgrounds and work affirmatively with LGBTQ+ clients. I hold in mind how factors such as race, culture, class, disability, and religion shape our inner lives and mental health.
I work with adults who are experiencing difficulties in their relationships, sense of self, or emotional wellbeing, whether that shows up as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or a feeling that the same painful patterns keep repeating. I also welcome people working in high-pressure professional environments who are experiencing stress, burnout, or a growing sense that something needs to change. I welcome people from all backgrounds and work affirmatively with LGBTQ+ clients. I hold in mind how factors such as race, culture, class, disability, and religion shape our inner lives and mental health.
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Marion Louise Fensome
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Brentwood CM15
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed or disconnected? Maybe you are navigating anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma, self-doubt , struggling to balance life's demands or struggling with your sexuality. Are you ready to take that courageous step towards change, even if it might feel daunting? Whether you are exploring identity, managing relationship challenges, healing from past trauma or trying to make sense of life's complexities , I am here to listen and help you move forward with your life, tailoring a plan to help you take back control and find emotional freedom and peace.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed or disconnected? Maybe you are navigating anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma, self-doubt , struggling to balance life's demands or struggling with your sexuality. Are you ready to take that courageous step towards change, even if it might feel daunting? Whether you are exploring identity, managing relationship challenges, healing from past trauma or trying to make sense of life's complexities , I am here to listen and help you move forward with your life, tailoring a plan to help you take back control and find emotional freedom and peace.
01277 674415 View 01277 674415
Jill Deacon
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
Speaking with someone for the first time about personal issues or trauma can feel really daunting. It is important to feel safe and not judged when talking about difficult things, and my aim is for us to develop a relationship where you can explore whatever it is that you need to. There is not an exhaustive list of the reasons for coming to counselling initially but one thing is sure and that is it begins with building trust and beginning to speak openly. Our sessions will be collaborative: I will facilitate, but you will lead the way. Even if you can't pin point why things feel difficult, you're not alone.
Speaking with someone for the first time about personal issues or trauma can feel really daunting. It is important to feel safe and not judged when talking about difficult things, and my aim is for us to develop a relationship where you can explore whatever it is that you need to. There is not an exhaustive list of the reasons for coming to counselling initially but one thing is sure and that is it begins with building trust and beginning to speak openly. Our sessions will be collaborative: I will facilitate, but you will lead the way. Even if you can't pin point why things feel difficult, you're not alone.
01273 121297 View 01273 121297
Mary Mulherin
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Mary (she/her), I'm passionate about supporting people with anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and relationship issues. Is your mind constantly racing, worrying whether you said or did the right thing? Wondering if people like you? Did you make the right decision? Do you find yourself beating yourself up when you feel like you've got something wrong and find it hard to let go of things. Maybe you find it hard to stand up for yourself. Life can be so overwhelming sometimes we can feel like we don't want to be here. It's exhausting isn't it! I'm guessing you're here because you're fed up and want something to change. I can help you.
Hi, I'm Mary (she/her), I'm passionate about supporting people with anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and relationship issues. Is your mind constantly racing, worrying whether you said or did the right thing? Wondering if people like you? Did you make the right decision? Do you find yourself beating yourself up when you feel like you've got something wrong and find it hard to let go of things. Maybe you find it hard to stand up for yourself. Life can be so overwhelming sometimes we can feel like we don't want to be here. It's exhausting isn't it! I'm guessing you're here because you're fed up and want something to change. I can help you.
01245 950493 View 01245 950493
Astro (Kate) Jones
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m curious about people, the things we feel and the connections we make, on our own, with others, in communities, and with our environments. How we get stuck sometimes, how we learn to survive and how we thrive and grow. I’m interested in the mind-body connection, processes of transformation, wild therapy and exploring queer family building. I have experience with, and am passionate about working with GSRD (Gender sexuality and relationally diverse) folks and the LGBTIQA+ community. I believe in creating therapy spaces for queer and trans people where they are met in a place of understanding and support.
I’m curious about people, the things we feel and the connections we make, on our own, with others, in communities, and with our environments. How we get stuck sometimes, how we learn to survive and how we thrive and grow. I’m interested in the mind-body connection, processes of transformation, wild therapy and exploring queer family building. I have experience with, and am passionate about working with GSRD (Gender sexuality and relationally diverse) folks and the LGBTIQA+ community. I believe in creating therapy spaces for queer and trans people where they are met in a place of understanding and support.
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Emma Harris Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Online Only
Life is full of thresholds, and stepping over them can bring more questions than answers. You may be navigating the loss of a loved one or a relationship, a midlife shift such as perimenopause or a lack of direction that’s hard to name. Perhaps something within you is changing but the people around you haven’t caught up. You may be noticing grief, anger, anxiety or simply a sense that something needs attention. This may include exploring your neurodivergent identity or the layered griefs of being childless not by choice. Therapy offers a steady space to explore what is happening within you and begin to find your way forward.
Life is full of thresholds, and stepping over them can bring more questions than answers. You may be navigating the loss of a loved one or a relationship, a midlife shift such as perimenopause or a lack of direction that’s hard to name. Perhaps something within you is changing but the people around you haven’t caught up. You may be noticing grief, anger, anxiety or simply a sense that something needs attention. This may include exploring your neurodivergent identity or the layered griefs of being childless not by choice. Therapy offers a steady space to explore what is happening within you and begin to find your way forward.
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Deirdre MacGinley
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
Do you feel frightened that your world might fall apart if you look at your sexuality or gender? Maybe you have thoughts going round and round in your head, and feel like you’ve lost track of perspective. Maybe you: don't like sex/like sex 'too much' /wrong kind of sex? Your gender doesn't fit with other people's idea of you. You may feel you are betraying your family, children or culture by expressing yourself. You may believe that what’s inside you is too shocking, or wrong or too much for the people around you. You may feel like there’s no-one you can talk to, which can be very isolating .
Do you feel frightened that your world might fall apart if you look at your sexuality or gender? Maybe you have thoughts going round and round in your head, and feel like you’ve lost track of perspective. Maybe you: don't like sex/like sex 'too much' /wrong kind of sex? Your gender doesn't fit with other people's idea of you. You may feel you are betraying your family, children or culture by expressing yourself. You may believe that what’s inside you is too shocking, or wrong or too much for the people around you. You may feel like there’s no-one you can talk to, which can be very isolating .
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Lesbian Counsellors
What is lesbian-affirming therapy?
Lesbian-affirming therapy is a type of mental health support that fully affirms and reflects a client's lesbian identity. It is rooted in acceptance and does not attempt to change or question an individual's sexual orientation. In this type of therapy, clients work with a therapist who understands the unique experiences of lesbian women. This support is especially important, as research shows that lesbian individuals face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges compared to heterosexual populations. Lesbian-affirming therapy acknowledges that lesbian individuals may encounter specific stressors—such as coming out challenges, family rejection, workplace discrimination, and minority stress—that require specialised understanding and intervention. Lesbian-affirming therapists often work with clients across all age groups, from adolescents navigating their emerging identity to adults and older individuals addressing life transitions and relationship concerns. Many therapists also provide couples therapy for lesbian partners, helping them navigate relationship dynamics, communication challenges, or external stressors that may impact their relationship. It is important to note that therapists provide talk therapy and counseling services but do not prescribe medication—if medication is needed for conditions like depression or anxiety, they will coordinate care with a psychiatrist or primary care physician who can provide psychiatric medication management alongside therapeutic support.

Why should I see a lesbian therapist?
Some clients prefer to work with lesbian therapists who may bring personal lived experience to the therapeutic relationship. Choosing to work with a lesbian therapist can offer a deeper sense of connection, comfort, and shared understanding. A therapist who identifies as lesbian may require clients to give less background explanation—whether it’s about navigating romantic relationships, feeling unseen in certain spaces, or processing the impact of past relationship challenges. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. Additionally, many lesbian-affirming therapists can connect clients to other providers or community-based resources—such as bisexual support groups or LGBTQ+ organisations—that offer additional affirming spaces for connection.

How do I find a lesbian therapist?
The Psychology Today online directory is a helpful tool for finding lesbian-affirming therapists. You can use search filters to identify therapists who specialise in LGBTQ+ care and work specifically with bisexual clients. You can also filter by clinical specialties, therapeutic approaches, accepted insurance, session costs, and languages spoken to find the right fit. Look for profiles where therapists explicitly mention working with lesbian clients, or where they describe their approach as identity-affirming, inclusive, or trauma-informed. Many providers will also list their own identities, which may help you find someone with shared lived experience if that is important to you. You can also look for credentials or continuing education in areas such as LGBTQ+ mental health, trauma-informed care, and intersectionality.