LGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling in Melksham

Photo of Michael Blakeborough, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Michael Blakeborough
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Melksham SN12
I often work with the LGBTQ community, of which I am a proud member as an out gay man, and with ethically non-monogamous relationships.
I often work with presentations of anxiety, depression, self identity and relationships. Like all psychotherapists, my approach to providing counselling is unique. I am trained as an integrative psychotherapist in both individual and relationship work. I pull from a large toolbox of theory and skills that I will tailor to you as we move forwards with your psychotherapy, including the person centered, psychodynamic, psychosynthesis and gestalt approaches, and in my relationship work, relational life therapy and imago. These are just a small sample of the modalities I use in my work.
I often work with the LGBTQ community, of which I am a proud member as an out gay man, and with ethically non-monogamous relationships.
I often work with presentations of anxiety, depression, self identity and relationships. Like all psychotherapists, my approach to providing counselling is unique. I am trained as an integrative psychotherapist in both individual and relationship work. I pull from a large toolbox of theory and skills that I will tailor to you as we move forwards with your psychotherapy, including the person centered, psychodynamic, psychosynthesis and gestalt approaches, and in my relationship work, relational life therapy and imago. These are just a small sample of the modalities I use in my work.
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Photo of Kathryn Dugdale, Counsellor, MBACP
Kathryn Dugdale
Counsellor, MBACP
Melksham SN12
I provide counselling from my private practice at my home in Melksham, Wiltshire. This is a private room providing a safe and confidential space for our work together. I can offer various daytime and evening appointments throughout the week. My training helps me to provide you with a reliable, regular, non-judgmental space where you can begin to talk about whatever is on your mind. I work in what is called an integrative way, using a wide range of therapeutic models, but primarily focusing on humanistic counselling.
I provide counselling from my private practice at my home in Melksham, Wiltshire. This is a private room providing a safe and confidential space for our work together. I can offer various daytime and evening appointments throughout the week. My training helps me to provide you with a reliable, regular, non-judgmental space where you can begin to talk about whatever is on your mind. I work in what is called an integrative way, using a wide range of therapeutic models, but primarily focusing on humanistic counselling.
07403 940315 View 07403 940315
Photo of Ffion Bennett, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Ffion Bennett
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an accredited CBT Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and ADHD coach with over a decades experience working in secondary care NHS services specialising in Adults of working age, Children and Adolescence. I am trained at delivering CBT and EMDR for clients with a range of difficulties from Anxiety and Depressive Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder and Psychosis. This includes training in EMDR for dissociation and Compassion focused CBT. I have extensive experience of working with Children and Adults who have experienced trauma, and always work very hard to create a safe and nurturing environment for clients.
I am an accredited CBT Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and ADHD coach with over a decades experience working in secondary care NHS services specialising in Adults of working age, Children and Adolescence. I am trained at delivering CBT and EMDR for clients with a range of difficulties from Anxiety and Depressive Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder and Psychosis. This includes training in EMDR for dissociation and Compassion focused CBT. I have extensive experience of working with Children and Adults who have experienced trauma, and always work very hard to create a safe and nurturing environment for clients.
01225 234369 View 01225 234369
Photo of Lindsay Watson, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Lindsay Watson
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Serves Area
It's likely you've realised that something in your life isn't working as you wish, or perhaps you're sick of feeling the way you do. Either way, even if it feels daunting, you're ready to start the work that leads to deeper self-understanding and lasting change.
It's likely you've realised that something in your life isn't working as you wish, or perhaps you're sick of feeling the way you do. Either way, even if it feels daunting, you're ready to start the work that leads to deeper self-understanding and lasting change.
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Photo of Helen Whitworth, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Helen Whitworth
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Occasionally it helps to review and reflect on life's pathway. It can be hard to do this by ourselves, our friends and family may feel too close to confide in. It can be helpful to explore our feelings and emotions in a safe, non-judgmental environment, I can provide this in a relaxing, quiet therapeutic space in Devizes. I have 20 years’ counselling experience with a deep interest in working with; bereavement and loss; with military families, veterans and others who experience PTSD; I work in an integrated style with a special interest in Compassion Focused Therapy.
Occasionally it helps to review and reflect on life's pathway. It can be hard to do this by ourselves, our friends and family may feel too close to confide in. It can be helpful to explore our feelings and emotions in a safe, non-judgmental environment, I can provide this in a relaxing, quiet therapeutic space in Devizes. I have 20 years’ counselling experience with a deep interest in working with; bereavement and loss; with military families, veterans and others who experience PTSD; I work in an integrated style with a special interest in Compassion Focused Therapy.
01380 710511 View 01380 710511
Photo of Kerry Hampton. (Mbacp), Psychotherapist, BACP
Kerry Hampton. (Mbacp)
Psychotherapist, BACP
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Many people come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, anxious, low, or unsure why they react the way they do. You may want space to breathe, feel understood, and explore your experiences safely. You might be seeking clarity, steadiness, or new ways of coping. You may want to understand yourself better, break old patterns, or feel more grounded and connected. Therapy offers support so you don’t have to navigate any of this alone.
Many people come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, anxious, low, or unsure why they react the way they do. You may want space to breathe, feel understood, and explore your experiences safely. You might be seeking clarity, steadiness, or new ways of coping. You may want to understand yourself better, break old patterns, or feel more grounded and connected. Therapy offers support so you don’t have to navigate any of this alone.
01373 482951 View 01373 482951

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ioanna Matte, Psychotherapist, MSc, SNCPS Acc.
Ioanna Matte
Psychotherapist, MSc, SNCPS Acc.
Online Only
I also offer relationship therapy for queer/ LGBTQ+ couples and people in CNM and poly relationship configurations.
I specialise in trauma and its longer-term impact, including dissociation and relationship patterns, PTSD and cPTSD, trust issues, panic and anxiety attacks, self-harm, depression, narcissistic family systems, loss and grief, and dealing with chronic illness. My approach is collaborative, trauma and dissociation-informed, and queer and trans-affirmative.
I also offer relationship therapy for queer/ LGBTQ+ couples and people in CNM and poly relationship configurations.
I specialise in trauma and its longer-term impact, including dissociation and relationship patterns, PTSD and cPTSD, trust issues, panic and anxiety attacks, self-harm, depression, narcissistic family systems, loss and grief, and dealing with chronic illness. My approach is collaborative, trauma and dissociation-informed, and queer and trans-affirmative.
020 3835 5612 View 020 3835 5612
Photo of Sally Ellis, Counsellor, BACP
Sally Ellis
Counsellor, BACP
Bristol BS8
I'm a qualified counsellor, Supervisor & hypnotherapist working with individuals and couples, I work with Neurodivergence, LGBTQAI+ community, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships/Family difficulties, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Abuse, Grief, Life changes/ Transitions. I offer a confidential, safe space for you to explore a variety of issues. I aim to develop a trusting relationship which is non-judgemental and wholly accepting you and your own way of navigating life. I am an integrative counsellor working from a person centred core .
I'm a qualified counsellor, Supervisor & hypnotherapist working with individuals and couples, I work with Neurodivergence, LGBTQAI+ community, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships/Family difficulties, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Abuse, Grief, Life changes/ Transitions. I offer a confidential, safe space for you to explore a variety of issues. I aim to develop a trusting relationship which is non-judgemental and wholly accepting you and your own way of navigating life. I am an integrative counsellor working from a person centred core .
0117 456 5379 View 0117 456 5379
Photo of Lisa Howarth - Lisa Howarth Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Lisa Howarth Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS6
Warm and down-to-earth, I offer trust and connection, being alongside you to explore your feelings and needs, and support you to understand relationships, loss and sexuality more deeply. I invite you to bring all your parts - young, lost, determined and brave, A qualified therapist, and psychosexual therapist in training, I have a background spanning substance use, criminal justice, trauma and community mental health. I'm honoured to work with people at all kinds of places in their lives.
Warm and down-to-earth, I offer trust and connection, being alongside you to explore your feelings and needs, and support you to understand relationships, loss and sexuality more deeply. I invite you to bring all your parts - young, lost, determined and brave, A qualified therapist, and psychosexual therapist in training, I have a background spanning substance use, criminal justice, trauma and community mental health. I'm honoured to work with people at all kinds of places in their lives.
0161 524 5095 View 0161 524 5095
Photo of Becca Norris, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Becca Norris
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS8
I work with/welcome a variety of clients/backgrounds, but I specialise in working with young adults and LGBTQ+community.
In life it is common to wear various marks in order to feel accepted. However you may find these are not true to yourself? My intention is to build trust and safety in our relationship, encouraging your outer mask to slip so you can begin exploring your true self. With that can come acceptance and liberation to live, grow, and develop as the true you.
I work with/welcome a variety of clients/backgrounds, but I specialise in working with young adults and LGBTQ+community.
In life it is common to wear various marks in order to feel accepted. However you may find these are not true to yourself? My intention is to build trust and safety in our relationship, encouraging your outer mask to slip so you can begin exploring your true self. With that can come acceptance and liberation to live, grow, and develop as the true you.
0117 463 7675 View 0117 463 7675
Photo of Shaheen Walker, Counsellor, MBACP
Shaheen Walker
Counsellor, MBACP
Bristol BS1
Hi - are you feeling stuck? Repeating the same patterns of behaviour again and again in your life or relationship and going around in circles? Do you feel a lack of love/respect from your partner or someone close to you? Is sex/intimacy or compulsive sexual behaviour an issue? Perhaps trauma, life changes, neurodiversity (adhd/asc) or difficult times have led to anxiety/depression, the trust has gone, or you're feeling sad, angry, lonely, numb, or not sure what you feel anymore? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space supporting individuals, couples, neurodiverse and enm relationships gain confidence to change and improve wellbeing.
Hi - are you feeling stuck? Repeating the same patterns of behaviour again and again in your life or relationship and going around in circles? Do you feel a lack of love/respect from your partner or someone close to you? Is sex/intimacy or compulsive sexual behaviour an issue? Perhaps trauma, life changes, neurodiversity (adhd/asc) or difficult times have led to anxiety/depression, the trust has gone, or you're feeling sad, angry, lonely, numb, or not sure what you feel anymore? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space supporting individuals, couples, neurodiverse and enm relationships gain confidence to change and improve wellbeing.
01895 545137 View 01895 545137
Photo of Zoe Powell Martin, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Zoe Powell Martin
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling, psychotherapy and pluralistic clinical supervision.
I have experience working with a broad range of mental health issues, long-term health care issues and issues due to difficult life events / circumstances. I offer general counselling and also specialised counselling for those within the LGBTQIA+ communities and University students.
I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling, psychotherapy and pluralistic clinical supervision.
I have experience working with a broad range of mental health issues, long-term health care issues and issues due to difficult life events / circumstances. I offer general counselling and also specialised counselling for those within the LGBTQIA+ communities and University students.
01363 722166 View 01363 722166
Photo of El Patel, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
El Patel
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Bristol BS1
I’m a mixed-race, queer, poly, neurodivergent trainee psychotherapist.
Whether you’re coming as an individual or in partnerships, you’re welcome to bring the full complexity of who you are into our work. I work with people to find and reclaim themselves, to meet and hold what has been heavy, and to build lives that feel more connected and infused with pleasure.
I’m a mixed-race, queer, poly, neurodivergent trainee psychotherapist.
Whether you’re coming as an individual or in partnerships, you’re welcome to bring the full complexity of who you are into our work. I work with people to find and reclaim themselves, to meet and hold what has been heavy, and to build lives that feel more connected and infused with pleasure.
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Photo of Amaris Raiana, Psychotherapist, COSRT Reg.
Amaris Raiana
Psychotherapist, COSRT Reg.
Online Only
Many of the people I work with are insightful, self-aware and emotionally reflective- yet still find themselves stuck in painful relational patterns. They often arrive exhausted by overthinking, second-guessing themselves, overgiving, or carrying the emotional weight within relationships. On the surface they may look like they have things together, but internally something feels off. You may notice yourself repeating the same dynamics, struggling to trust your instincts, or feeling drawn towards relationships that leave you anxious, unseen or emotionally depleted.
Many of the people I work with are insightful, self-aware and emotionally reflective- yet still find themselves stuck in painful relational patterns. They often arrive exhausted by overthinking, second-guessing themselves, overgiving, or carrying the emotional weight within relationships. On the surface they may look like they have things together, but internally something feels off. You may notice yourself repeating the same dynamics, struggling to trust your instincts, or feeling drawn towards relationships that leave you anxious, unseen or emotionally depleted.
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Photo of Claire Nunan, Counsellor, MSc, SNCPS Acc.
Claire Nunan
Counsellor, MSc, SNCPS Acc.
Bristol BS1
I work with a wide range of people but I specialise in working with individuals from the LGBTQ+ and GSRD community, those who are neurodivergent (or think they might be) as well as Millennials and Gen Z-ers.
During sessions we can look at what’s brought you to counselling and discover ways to help you move forward, gain clarity or find solutions. It can also be a safe and respectful space to express yourself and try new things.
I work with a wide range of people but I specialise in working with individuals from the LGBTQ+ and GSRD community, those who are neurodivergent (or think they might be) as well as Millennials and Gen Z-ers.
During sessions we can look at what’s brought you to counselling and discover ways to help you move forward, gain clarity or find solutions. It can also be a safe and respectful space to express yourself and try new things.
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Photo of Heather Phillips, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Heather Phillips
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you looking for a safe space with an experienced trauma-informed therapist? I offer CBT & EMDR to help tackle low self-esteem, anxiety, & trauma/ PTSD. Perhaps you are having strong reactions to things, or maybe you are struggling with anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or nightmares. You might be having trouble sleeping or issues with food or body image. Maybe you feel disconnected, irritable, guilty, and not the parent/ partner/ person that you want to be. When things feel tough, working with someone who you feel 'gets it' and knowing the space is safe and free from judgement is really important.
Are you looking for a safe space with an experienced trauma-informed therapist? I offer CBT & EMDR to help tackle low self-esteem, anxiety, & trauma/ PTSD. Perhaps you are having strong reactions to things, or maybe you are struggling with anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or nightmares. You might be having trouble sleeping or issues with food or body image. Maybe you feel disconnected, irritable, guilty, and not the parent/ partner/ person that you want to be. When things feel tough, working with someone who you feel 'gets it' and knowing the space is safe and free from judgement is really important.
01865 638457 View 01865 638457
Photo of Vera Kong, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Vera Kong
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With over a decade of experience in private practice and the NHS, I work with both individuals and couples seeking deeper healing, self-understanding, and meaningful change. Clients I work with tend to come to therapy at important life and relationship junctions - navigating trauma, anxiety, overwhelm, or a growing sense that old patterns no longer fit who they are becoming. My approach is holistic, relational, and trauma-informed, integrating body-mind awareness through my background in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. At the baseline, I offer a sounding board; a space that can help you grow, overcome, stabilise, and unfold safely.
With over a decade of experience in private practice and the NHS, I work with both individuals and couples seeking deeper healing, self-understanding, and meaningful change. Clients I work with tend to come to therapy at important life and relationship junctions - navigating trauma, anxiety, overwhelm, or a growing sense that old patterns no longer fit who they are becoming. My approach is holistic, relational, and trauma-informed, integrating body-mind awareness through my background in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. At the baseline, I offer a sounding board; a space that can help you grow, overcome, stabilise, and unfold safely.
01454 802737 View 01454 802737
Photo of Lynette Brice, Counsellor, MBACP
Lynette Brice
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I specialise with the LGBT+ community, including their family and friends.
Accepting, safe and non-judgemental counselling service from an LGBT+ ally - I work towards my clients sensing acceptance, warmth, and safety when joining me in sessions. I possess an equal and inclusive belief, which conveys into my professional practice.
I specialise with the LGBT+ community, including their family and friends.
Accepting, safe and non-judgemental counselling service from an LGBT+ ally - I work towards my clients sensing acceptance, warmth, and safety when joining me in sessions. I possess an equal and inclusive belief, which conveys into my professional practice.
01275 409794 View 01275 409794
Photo of Cora Hilton, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Cora Hilton
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Bristol BS1
I'm proud to have spent these years working with people with all sorts of diverse lived experience - and as the Lana reference may have hinted, I also have particular knowledge of working with queer stories.
Frequent topics in my work include anxiety, depression, burnout, perfectionism, relationships, self-esteem, identity, bereavement & LGBTQ+ issues. I also often work with people who can't put a finger on what brings them to therapy, but know something needs to change. Sometimes, nothing in particular is 'wrong', but we know things could feel more 'right'.
I'm proud to have spent these years working with people with all sorts of diverse lived experience - and as the Lana reference may have hinted, I also have particular knowledge of working with queer stories.
Frequent topics in my work include anxiety, depression, burnout, perfectionism, relationships, self-esteem, identity, bereavement & LGBTQ+ issues. I also often work with people who can't put a finger on what brings them to therapy, but know something needs to change. Sometimes, nothing in particular is 'wrong', but we know things could feel more 'right'.
020 4572 4537 View 020 4572 4537
Photo of Ana Vidal, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Ana Vidal
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
I am an a counsellor and psychotherapist in private practice and I am passionate about empowering people. Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious or struggling with self-esteem? Perhaps you feel stuck in patterns of behaviour as if nothing can change? Do you struggle with narcissistic relationships? Do you feel depressed and is hard to cope with certain feelings?. Does it feel as if work and family struggles are increasingly hard to handle? Perhaps you fear social situations? Are you living with a visual impairment or chronic illness? Do you feel burdened by the past and unable to move on? This is when a therapist like me can help.
I am an a counsellor and psychotherapist in private practice and I am passionate about empowering people. Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious or struggling with self-esteem? Perhaps you feel stuck in patterns of behaviour as if nothing can change? Do you struggle with narcissistic relationships? Do you feel depressed and is hard to cope with certain feelings?. Does it feel as if work and family struggles are increasingly hard to handle? Perhaps you fear social situations? Are you living with a visual impairment or chronic illness? Do you feel burdened by the past and unable to move on? This is when a therapist like me can help.
020 3962 1519 View 020 3962 1519
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.