Cancer Counselling in Leighton Buzzard

Lewis Ottaway
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
3 Endorsed
I’m a cognitive behavioural psychotherapist supporting people aged 14+ to build self-esteem and navigate life with ADHD. I also help clients overcome anxiety, depression and PTSD. By blending evidence-based techniques with my lived experience – especially around low self-esteem - we can tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. My approach is flexible, compassionate and focused on lasting change. I often draw on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), somatic approaches, trauma-focused rescripting, mindfulness and emotional processing.
I’m a cognitive behavioural psychotherapist supporting people aged 14+ to build self-esteem and navigate life with ADHD. I also help clients overcome anxiety, depression and PTSD. By blending evidence-based techniques with my lived experience – especially around low self-esteem - we can tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. My approach is flexible, compassionate and focused on lasting change. I often draw on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), somatic approaches, trauma-focused rescripting, mindfulness and emotional processing.
01525 302579 View 01525 302579
Dawn Woosley
Counsellor, MBACP
Hi, Over the past 14 years,myself & my practice have helped individuals and couples with issues including: trauma, bereavement, generalized anxiety, depression, low self esteem, OCD, problem drinking and drug use, personality disorder, anger management, work-related stress, as well as many couples seeking help with relationship breakdowns, difficulties and changes. We can help you through difficult experiences you are having; develop skills and self confidence; adjust to changed circumstances; think through tough decisions; understand yourself better; deal with problem thoughts, behavior or relationships; face past painful issues
Hi, Over the past 14 years,myself & my practice have helped individuals and couples with issues including: trauma, bereavement, generalized anxiety, depression, low self esteem, OCD, problem drinking and drug use, personality disorder, anger management, work-related stress, as well as many couples seeking help with relationship breakdowns, difficulties and changes. We can help you through difficult experiences you are having; develop skills and self confidence; adjust to changed circumstances; think through tough decisions; understand yourself better; deal with problem thoughts, behavior or relationships; face past painful issues
01525 309853 View 01525 309853
Jonathan Christie
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Welcome. I’m glad you’re taking the first step towards talking about how you feel. Whatever’s troubling you, perhaps I can help.
Welcome. I’m glad you’re taking the first step towards talking about how you feel. Whatever’s troubling you, perhaps I can help.
01296 798869 View 01296 798869
Caroline Taylor
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer a calm, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can talk openly about what’s going on for you. People often come to counselling feeling anxious, overwhelmed, under pressure or experiencing low mood. Together we can explore patterns, feelings and experiences at a pace that feels right for you. I offer face-to-face counselling in Berkhamsted, St Albans and Hemel Hempstead, as well as online therapy across the UK.
I offer a calm, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can talk openly about what’s going on for you. People often come to counselling feeling anxious, overwhelmed, under pressure or experiencing low mood. Together we can explore patterns, feelings and experiences at a pace that feels right for you. I offer face-to-face counselling in Berkhamsted, St Albans and Hemel Hempstead, as well as online therapy across the UK.
01442 953425 View 01442 953425
Circle Therapy
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Our warm and experienced team offer counselling and psychotherapy to Adults, Couples and children aged 4- 18. We offer low cost one to one sessions to Adults and young people aged 14 upwards. This is via our counsellors completing their training. Our session fees for low cost are between £15-£20 depending on your circumstances. We can support with anxiety, low mood, loss and bereavement, school and study stress, family issues, relationships and more.
Our warm and experienced team offer counselling and psychotherapy to Adults, Couples and children aged 4- 18. We offer low cost one to one sessions to Adults and young people aged 14 upwards. This is via our counsellors completing their training. Our session fees for low cost are between £15-£20 depending on your circumstances. We can support with anxiety, low mood, loss and bereavement, school and study stress, family issues, relationships and more.
01442 501073 View 01442 501073
Karen Johnson
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you wake up anxious, stressed and dread the beginning of each new day? Are you feeling overwhelmed from taking care of everyone else’s needs and feel guilty if you take time for yourself? Do you often feel that everyone else’s problems are greater than yours and don’t speak out about your own difficulties but will happily listen and support friends when they need help? Perhaps you feel that your work / life balance is out of control but just don't know where to start? Working together I will help you create healthier habits, feel better about yourself and learn techniques to feel more in control to begin enjoying life again.
Do you wake up anxious, stressed and dread the beginning of each new day? Are you feeling overwhelmed from taking care of everyone else’s needs and feel guilty if you take time for yourself? Do you often feel that everyone else’s problems are greater than yours and don’t speak out about your own difficulties but will happily listen and support friends when they need help? Perhaps you feel that your work / life balance is out of control but just don't know where to start? Working together I will help you create healthier habits, feel better about yourself and learn techniques to feel more in control to begin enjoying life again.
01788 229475 View 01788 229475

More Therapists Nearby

Emma Everett-Ware Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Bedford MK40
I've always had a passion for art, using different materials to explore and process my own emotions long before I trained professionally. Becoming a qualified, HCPC-registered Art Psychotherapist has given me the privilege of helping others do the same: using art to express themselves, build self-awareness, and grow. My approach is trauma-informed and attachment-based, grounded in the belief that safety and trust within the therapeutic relationship come first. Only once that foundation is in place can deeper exploration and processing happen safely.
I've always had a passion for art, using different materials to explore and process my own emotions long before I trained professionally. Becoming a qualified, HCPC-registered Art Psychotherapist has given me the privilege of helping others do the same: using art to express themselves, build self-awareness, and grow. My approach is trauma-informed and attachment-based, grounded in the belief that safety and trust within the therapeutic relationship come first. Only once that foundation is in place can deeper exploration and processing happen safely.
01234 386863 View 01234 386863
Sarah Elliott Counselling
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
I offer support for cancer patients, navigating life after chemo and in finding a new kind of normal and living with a chronic/terminal illness.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or stuck or maybe experiencing sadness, loneliness or going through some pretty big life changes. I'm a warm, compassionate and relatable counsellor, able to build strong relationships where you will feel safe enough to be open, honest and a little bit vulnerable in order to get the best out of therapy and start to feel more like yourself again. I work with a range of issues, including, low self-esteem, loss of identity, depression, anxiety, anger, domestic abuse, pet loss, bereavement and offer emotional support to parents struggling with the effects of emotional based school refusal.
I offer support for cancer patients, navigating life after chemo and in finding a new kind of normal and living with a chronic/terminal illness.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or stuck or maybe experiencing sadness, loneliness or going through some pretty big life changes. I'm a warm, compassionate and relatable counsellor, able to build strong relationships where you will feel safe enough to be open, honest and a little bit vulnerable in order to get the best out of therapy and start to feel more like yourself again. I work with a range of issues, including, low self-esteem, loss of identity, depression, anxiety, anger, domestic abuse, pet loss, bereavement and offer emotional support to parents struggling with the effects of emotional based school refusal.
01442 508058 View 01442 508058
Petra Kagleder
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
I work with people who have been affected by cancer, blood disorders and other medical long-term conditions.
Whilst I am trained in treating a wide range of mental health challenges, I specialise in four areas: the impact of physical illness, trauma, impact of work related issues, and neurodiversity. During my career in the NHS, I have worked with many clients who are living with serious physical illness (including life-limiting conditions) and/or long-term conditions. I am also providing support for carers. Using EMDR, I can treat trauma, including PTSD and trauma caused by medical conditions and/or treatment. I can also support you with work and stress related problems and living as a neurodivergent person in a neurotypical world.
I work with people who have been affected by cancer, blood disorders and other medical long-term conditions.
Whilst I am trained in treating a wide range of mental health challenges, I specialise in four areas: the impact of physical illness, trauma, impact of work related issues, and neurodiversity. During my career in the NHS, I have worked with many clients who are living with serious physical illness (including life-limiting conditions) and/or long-term conditions. I am also providing support for carers. Using EMDR, I can treat trauma, including PTSD and trauma caused by medical conditions and/or treatment. I can also support you with work and stress related problems and living as a neurodivergent person in a neurotypical world.
01628 563832 View 01628 563832
Anna-Maia Templeton
Counsellor, MBACP
I have specialist training and supervision in cancer, caring, grief and bereavement through my work in the NHS, with BCN and in hospice settings.
Sometimes life becomes hard and we can become stuck in some difficult feelings. Led by you and working at your pace we will gently hold and explore any issues and difficulties you may be experiencing in your life. My hope is that in offering you my empathy, warmth, and acceptance you will feel that nothing is too small, too big or too awful to talk about. My counselling is person-centred, focusing on the belief that if we are given empathy and unconditional positive regard within an accepting and transparent therapeutic relationship, we all have a tendency towards growth and a capacity to flourish.
I have specialist training and supervision in cancer, caring, grief and bereavement through my work in the NHS, with BCN and in hospice settings.
Sometimes life becomes hard and we can become stuck in some difficult feelings. Led by you and working at your pace we will gently hold and explore any issues and difficulties you may be experiencing in your life. My hope is that in offering you my empathy, warmth, and acceptance you will feel that nothing is too small, too big or too awful to talk about. My counselling is person-centred, focusing on the belief that if we are given empathy and unconditional positive regard within an accepting and transparent therapeutic relationship, we all have a tendency towards growth and a capacity to flourish.
01442 503436 View 01442 503436
Satwant Kaur
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
London N12
You might be functioning on the outside, but inside you feel tense, flat, or emotionally exhausted. Perhaps you keep going, meeting expectations, and telling yourself you should be coping better, while something underneath feels unsettled or heavy. People come to therapy with me when anxiety, low mood, guilt, grief, or relationship difficulties have started to feel harder to carry alone. Sometimes there is a clear problem, sometimes just a sense that old patterns keep repeating, or that you have lost touch with yourself.
You might be functioning on the outside, but inside you feel tense, flat, or emotionally exhausted. Perhaps you keep going, meeting expectations, and telling yourself you should be coping better, while something underneath feels unsettled or heavy. People come to therapy with me when anxiety, low mood, guilt, grief, or relationship difficulties have started to feel harder to carry alone. Sometimes there is a clear problem, sometimes just a sense that old patterns keep repeating, or that you have lost touch with yourself.
020 4634 8010 View 020 4634 8010
Daniel Watkinson
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
Aside from the work with private clients over the previous years, where I have worked with a wide range of issues, I have also worked with cancer support and housing and employment charities.
In a world where we are more connected than ever before, do you often find yourself feeling lonely? Do you ever feel restless, knowing something doesn’t quite feel right, but you’re not sure what the problem is? Maybe you know that an issue is affecting your life, but you don’t know where to begin in resolving it. If any of this sounds familiar, then together we'll look to identify the feelings, beliefs and memories that are specific to you, and find ways you can respond to these leaving you feeling calm, self-compassionate and more resolved.
Aside from the work with private clients over the previous years, where I have worked with a wide range of issues, I have also worked with cancer support and housing and employment charities.
In a world where we are more connected than ever before, do you often find yourself feeling lonely? Do you ever feel restless, knowing something doesn’t quite feel right, but you’re not sure what the problem is? Maybe you know that an issue is affecting your life, but you don’t know where to begin in resolving it. If any of this sounds familiar, then together we'll look to identify the feelings, beliefs and memories that are specific to you, and find ways you can respond to these leaving you feeling calm, self-compassionate and more resolved.
01869 943686 View 01869 943686
Janine Hayward
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The team & I offer specialties in children, adults, neurodiversity, trauma, anxiety, cancer, parenting, injury, relationships and much more.
Hello. Do you struggle with anxiety, work, relationships or parenting stress? Are you overwhelmed, worried, depressed, stuck, low in self-esteem or navigating ADHD, Autism? You are not alone. Does your need to be perfect take up too much time? Is trauma, an illness, a major loss or death hurting you? It doesn't have to be that way. The team & I help people like you understand distress, learn new skills for managing uncomfortable emotions and thoughts, improve relationships, motivation, find meaning and focus. We're Clinical Psychologists (HCPC) with >10 years of experience delivering effective therapy to kids, teens and adults.
The team & I offer specialties in children, adults, neurodiversity, trauma, anxiety, cancer, parenting, injury, relationships and much more.
Hello. Do you struggle with anxiety, work, relationships or parenting stress? Are you overwhelmed, worried, depressed, stuck, low in self-esteem or navigating ADHD, Autism? You are not alone. Does your need to be perfect take up too much time? Is trauma, an illness, a major loss or death hurting you? It doesn't have to be that way. The team & I help people like you understand distress, learn new skills for managing uncomfortable emotions and thoughts, improve relationships, motivation, find meaning and focus. We're Clinical Psychologists (HCPC) with >10 years of experience delivering effective therapy to kids, teens and adults.
0333 344 2063 View 0333 344 2063
Monique Sara Noy Spevock
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Online Only
I provide a welcoming, supportive, understanding and non-judgmental safe haven in-which to explore any emotions, feelings or concerns you may have. As a fully registered and accredited UKCP Psychotherapist and a registered member of the BACP, I have a vast experience of various concerns in private, NHS and public clinics. My varied experience has permitted me to meet a diverse spectrum of clients with varied backgrounds and presenting concerns. My Integrative approach to Psychotherapy, has provided me with an extensive foundation of perspectives and psychological philosophies.
I provide a welcoming, supportive, understanding and non-judgmental safe haven in-which to explore any emotions, feelings or concerns you may have. As a fully registered and accredited UKCP Psychotherapist and a registered member of the BACP, I have a vast experience of various concerns in private, NHS and public clinics. My varied experience has permitted me to meet a diverse spectrum of clients with varied backgrounds and presenting concerns. My Integrative approach to Psychotherapy, has provided me with an extensive foundation of perspectives and psychological philosophies.
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Alessia Newman
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
I have many years of experience working in the NHS, charity sector and privately with adults struggling with a variety of issues, such as suicidal thoughts, self-harm, personality disorders, low mood, body dysmorphia, and cancer.
I’m Alessia, a psychodynamic psychotherapist offering a warm and non-judgemental space to explore your true self. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, low mood, relationship challenges, or the emotional impact of physical health issues, I’m here to help you make sense of your experiences and feel more connected to yourself. Our work will gently explore how past experiences may be influencing the present. Many of our present-day challenges stem from patterns developed earlier in life, often outside of our conscious awareness. Our work in therapy will encourage deeper understanding, where real and lasting change becomes possible.
I have many years of experience working in the NHS, charity sector and privately with adults struggling with a variety of issues, such as suicidal thoughts, self-harm, personality disorders, low mood, body dysmorphia, and cancer.
I’m Alessia, a psychodynamic psychotherapist offering a warm and non-judgemental space to explore your true self. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, low mood, relationship challenges, or the emotional impact of physical health issues, I’m here to help you make sense of your experiences and feel more connected to yourself. Our work will gently explore how past experiences may be influencing the present. Many of our present-day challenges stem from patterns developed earlier in life, often outside of our conscious awareness. Our work in therapy will encourage deeper understanding, where real and lasting change becomes possible.
01908 024846 View 01908 024846
Attiya Bokhari
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Online Only
I am a female Muslim therapist and British Muslim psychotherapist offering modern, affordable therapy to women seeking culturally sensitive support. Based in East London, I work online with clients across London and the UK. As a modern Muslim therapist, I understand the realities of growing up between cultures. I support women with anxiety, self-criticism, family and relationship difficulties, marriage, divorce, parents and in-laws, identity issues and low self-esteem. I understand the impact of culture and family expectations on emotional wellbeing, particularly for second-generation British Muslim women.
I am a female Muslim therapist and British Muslim psychotherapist offering modern, affordable therapy to women seeking culturally sensitive support. Based in East London, I work online with clients across London and the UK. As a modern Muslim therapist, I understand the realities of growing up between cultures. I support women with anxiety, self-criticism, family and relationship difficulties, marriage, divorce, parents and in-laws, identity issues and low self-esteem. I understand the impact of culture and family expectations on emotional wellbeing, particularly for second-generation British Muslim women.
020 4538 3221 View 020 4538 3221
Kate Wiggs
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
People who sincerely want change and are willing to look within will find a committed cheerleader in me. Whether we are exploring addiction, grief or relationship challenges, my work is grounded in curiosity, compassion and non-judgement. I bring genuine interest in people’s inner worlds and relationships, creating a space where clients can feel safe to reflect, experiment and grow.
People who sincerely want change and are willing to look within will find a committed cheerleader in me. Whether we are exploring addiction, grief or relationship challenges, my work is grounded in curiosity, compassion and non-judgement. I bring genuine interest in people’s inner worlds and relationships, creating a space where clients can feel safe to reflect, experiment and grow.
020 3910 8367 View 020 3910 8367
Gabrielle Marshall
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
In a fast-paced and often disconnected world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or stuck. You might be managing anxiety, navigating a life transition, or questioning your sense of self. Therapy offers a space to reconnect—with yourself, your values, and your capacity for change. I offer a grounded, relational approach to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Whether you're seeking support for emotional wellbeing, healing from trauma, or wanting to understand patterns of feelings and behaviours that are affecting your daily life, a confidential space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported.
In a fast-paced and often disconnected world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or stuck. You might be managing anxiety, navigating a life transition, or questioning your sense of self. Therapy offers a space to reconnect—with yourself, your values, and your capacity for change. I offer a grounded, relational approach to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Whether you're seeking support for emotional wellbeing, healing from trauma, or wanting to understand patterns of feelings and behaviours that are affecting your daily life, a confidential space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported.
01923 311367 View 01923 311367
Blue River Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
Hello, I am Dr Rima Lamba. I'm a feminist counselling psychologist with an interest in the unique experiences of women from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I work closely with women who have struggled with self esteem & identity, relationship issues, difficulties in motherhood, life transitions, attachment and early trauma, and transgenerational trauma. I am particularly interested in the structural power differences that impact people, so I work closely on issues to do with patriarchy, race, culture and more. I also work with a team of therapists who can support clients, including adult families.
Hello, I am Dr Rima Lamba. I'm a feminist counselling psychologist with an interest in the unique experiences of women from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I work closely with women who have struggled with self esteem & identity, relationship issues, difficulties in motherhood, life transitions, attachment and early trauma, and transgenerational trauma. I am particularly interested in the structural power differences that impact people, so I work closely on issues to do with patriarchy, race, culture and more. I also work with a team of therapists who can support clients, including adult families.
020 8129 6050 View 020 8129 6050
Matt Hopton
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Bedford MK42
Whether you want to feel better and back to your 'old self' or improve your life, I am skilled and experienced at helping people achieve these goals. Trained in a range of approaches and techniques I will tailor the therapy to your preferences & needs. I have worked for over a decade as a practitioner in NHS psychological services, currently at Specialist Psychotherapist level. I am accredited with 3 professional bodies; BACP (Counselling & Psychotherapy), BABCP (Cognitive & Behavioural Therapies) and IPTUK (Interpersonal Therapy).
Whether you want to feel better and back to your 'old self' or improve your life, I am skilled and experienced at helping people achieve these goals. Trained in a range of approaches and techniques I will tailor the therapy to your preferences & needs. I have worked for over a decade as a practitioner in NHS psychological services, currently at Specialist Psychotherapist level. I am accredited with 3 professional bodies; BACP (Counselling & Psychotherapy), BABCP (Cognitive & Behavioural Therapies) and IPTUK (Interpersonal Therapy).
01234 676640 View 01234 676640
Cancer Counsellors
How does cancer affect mental health?
A cancer diagnosis is a major life event that can significantly influence the mental health of any individual. Being diagnosed with cancer often introduces a sense of uncertainty about the future, which can cause clients to experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, and significant distress. Many cancer patients may also worry about the toll that their diagnosis may have on their family, their physical health, their job, and their financial situation. The compounding of such stressors can also decrease mental health in clients and may lead to additional symptoms that can influence mental health, such as sleeping difficulties or social withdrawal.

What is the best psychological therapy for cancer patients?
The best type of psychological therapy for cancer patients is highly dependent on the needs of the individual. The therapy type that a client benefits from may also depend on what stage of the cancer journey they are in. Recently diagnosed cancer patients, for instance, may benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which can help clients develop skills to manage the emotional distress that comes with a cancer diagnosis. Alternatively, cancer patients further along in their journey may benefit from therapies like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or other forms of mindfulness therapy to help manage symptoms or physical pain associated with treatment. Clients may also consider group therapy, which offers cancer patients an opportunity to receive support from other individuals dealing with a cancer diagnosis.

Are there any risks or drawbacks in going to therapy while dealing with cancer?
Although attending therapy while dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be helpful, one major concern for cancer patients can be the financial cost of seeking therapy. Many therapists are out-of-network, meaning they do not accept insurance, and thus clients are expected to pay the entirety of the session fee. Since many cancer patients may be out of work as a result of their diagnosis or cancer treatment regimen, the costs of therapy sessions can be substantial. Luckily, many cancer centers and local clinics may offer free or substantially reduced-cost counselling services to cancer patients and their families. In addition, cancer patients may be eligible for grants or other forms of funding from local agencies and nonprofits to seek therapy for their cancer diagnosis. Such opportunities can be very helpful for cancer patients, as they allow clients to obtain the benefits of therapy without the financial strain.

How long does cancer therapy typically last?
The length of cancer therapy depends on the needs of each client. In some cases, cancer patients may only require therapeutic support during the period following their initial diagnosis—to help manage the uncertainty and shock of a cancer diagnosis. In other cases, clients may choose to receive therapy throughout their treatment, and even following, their cancer journey. Pursuing therapy for a longer period of time can help clients develop a deeper relationship with their therapist and provide opportunity to process the challenges presented by cancer treatment, such as physical pain, and challenges associated with cancer survivorship, such as ongoing identity concerns, physical limitations, or relationship challenges.