LGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling in Ottery Saint Mary

Photo of Linda Macaulay, Counsellor, MBACP
Linda Macaulay
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
As a very experienced Counsellor (qualified 1998) and Physical Therapist (Pilates Instructor qualified 1984) I have an innate interest in and deep respect for people. My mission has been to support and work with my clients in assisting them in achieving their healing and wellness. Often it helps to be listened to and it is important to understand why things are the way they are. Perhaps you feel "stuck"and are at a loss to know how to deal with a difficult situation - or it may be that you are having difficulties in relationships with other people.
As a very experienced Counsellor (qualified 1998) and Physical Therapist (Pilates Instructor qualified 1984) I have an innate interest in and deep respect for people. My mission has been to support and work with my clients in assisting them in achieving their healing and wellness. Often it helps to be listened to and it is important to understand why things are the way they are. Perhaps you feel "stuck"and are at a loss to know how to deal with a difficult situation - or it may be that you are having difficulties in relationships with other people.
07445 343049 View 07445 343049
Photo of Tina Welch - Tina Welch Counselling & Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MBACP
Tina Welch Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
With over 25yrs experience as a counsellor/psychotherapist, I have been very privileged to witness many individuals, couples and families make lasting positive changes. I feel very passionate about my work & deeply commit to offering a sincere, caring, confidential & professional space, either online or in my practice rooms at Honiton & Exeter. I believe in working with diversity, each unique person with me is at the core of the work we do together. I aim to understand with true empathy, listen without judgement and to use my skills to help you find a way forward that is right for you, without fear of rejection, criticism or blame.
With over 25yrs experience as a counsellor/psychotherapist, I have been very privileged to witness many individuals, couples and families make lasting positive changes. I feel very passionate about my work & deeply commit to offering a sincere, caring, confidential & professional space, either online or in my practice rooms at Honiton & Exeter. I believe in working with diversity, each unique person with me is at the core of the work we do together. I aim to understand with true empathy, listen without judgement and to use my skills to help you find a way forward that is right for you, without fear of rejection, criticism or blame.
01404 515531 View 01404 515531
Photo of Hannah Duncan, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Hannah Duncan
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ultimately, good therapy should make change: reactions, behaviours, difficult aspects of self, attitudes/beliefs about yourself or how you carry your story. I love work to with clients who are prepared to jump in, take risks and be proactive - this is the way to ensure real change. I jump in too, working with body and mind in a practical, energetic way. I view the best wisdom as something that can directly be applied to life. A supervisee described me as "real, relational, practical and not floaty/wispy". I like to incorporate psychoeducation and relevant theoretical information. I don't sit on my hands or allow unhelpful silences.
Ultimately, good therapy should make change: reactions, behaviours, difficult aspects of self, attitudes/beliefs about yourself or how you carry your story. I love work to with clients who are prepared to jump in, take risks and be proactive - this is the way to ensure real change. I jump in too, working with body and mind in a practical, energetic way. I view the best wisdom as something that can directly be applied to life. A supervisee described me as "real, relational, practical and not floaty/wispy". I like to incorporate psychoeducation and relevant theoretical information. I don't sit on my hands or allow unhelpful silences.
07481 341671 View 07481 341671

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa Howarth - Lisa Howarth Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Lisa Howarth Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 SJ Tertini, Counsellor, MBACP
SJ Tertini
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX1
Before entering private practice, I spent over a year working as a counsellor at a local LGBTQ charity.
Therapy with me is a conversation between two people—steady, honest, and spacious enough for you to show up exactly as you are. Different ways of experiencing and navigating the world are valued, so no matter who you are - you will be welcome, seen, and respected in this space. I have a particular interest in working with LGBT+ and neurodivergent people. Therapy with me offers you a chance to slow down, notice what’s going on beneath the surface, and explore the things that matter to you, even if you’re not quite sure what they are yet. Book a free 15-minute chat to see if we’re a good fit and ask any questions you might have.
Before entering private practice, I spent over a year working as a counsellor at a local LGBTQ charity.
Therapy with me is a conversation between two people—steady, honest, and spacious enough for you to show up exactly as you are. Different ways of experiencing and navigating the world are valued, so no matter who you are - you will be welcome, seen, and respected in this space. I have a particular interest in working with LGBT+ and neurodivergent people. Therapy with me offers you a chance to slow down, notice what’s going on beneath the surface, and explore the things that matter to you, even if you’re not quite sure what they are yet. Book a free 15-minute chat to see if we’re a good fit and ask any questions you might have.
01392 321261 View 01392 321261
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 Emma Harris - Emma Harris Therapy, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
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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Photo of Miriam Berry, Counsellor, MBACP
Miriam Berry
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also work closely with people who are neurodiverse, whether with a diagnosis or not and those within the LGBTQ+ community.
I provide relational, psychodynamic and integrative psychotherapy. Our conversations are guided by you and what suits your needs. I work inclusively and will attempt to provide every accommodations where relevant.
I also work closely with people who are neurodiverse, whether with a diagnosis or not and those within the LGBTQ+ community.
I provide relational, psychodynamic and integrative psychotherapy. Our conversations are guided by you and what suits your needs. I work inclusively and will attempt to provide every accommodations where relevant.
01392 321021 View 01392 321021
Photo of Rebecca Harp, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Rebecca Harp
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Exeter EX1
Since qualifying in 2016, I have specialised in supporting the LGBTQ+ community & women.
My primary training focussed on dramatherapy, a type of arts psychotherapy. In addition to talking during therapy, we may also use techniques such as creative writing, artwork, metaphors, ritual, archetypes, music & other creative ways of exploration. I also offer cacao-assisted psychotherapy and you can find further information about this on my website.
Since qualifying in 2016, I have specialised in supporting the LGBTQ+ community & women.
My primary training focussed on dramatherapy, a type of arts psychotherapy. In addition to talking during therapy, we may also use techniques such as creative writing, artwork, metaphors, ritual, archetypes, music & other creative ways of exploration. I also offer cacao-assisted psychotherapy and you can find further information about this on my website.
01392 321849 View 01392 321849
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 Beth Fisher - Beth Fisher Therapy, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Beth Fisher Therapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Exeter EX1
I work with adults experiencing a range of difficulties, who want to understand patterns behind their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and develop strategies to manage challenges effectively. My clients value working with someone knowledgeable, approachable, and trustworthy. I aim to create a safe space to work with you to explore the challenges you are facing as we work towards your goals.
I work with adults experiencing a range of difficulties, who want to understand patterns behind their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and develop strategies to manage challenges effectively. My clients value working with someone knowledgeable, approachable, and trustworthy. I aim to create a safe space to work with you to explore the challenges you are facing as we work towards your goals.
01392 321230 View 01392 321230
Photo of Colin Barnard, Counsellor, MBACP
Colin Barnard
Counsellor, MBACP
Tiverton EX16
Areas with which I often work are: Anxiety; Depression; Self-esteem issues; Bereavement and grief, including loss to suicide; Relationship issues; Concerns related to retirement; Men's issues and LGBTQ+ issues.
I believe that counselling is a powerful and special opportunity to grow and heal and have witnessed the amazing capacity for humans to overcome challenges with the right support. My role is to provide a truly listening ear in a quiet, professional, compassionate and safe space. As a person, I am warm and grounded and someone you will find easy to talk to and trust. I work in a tailored, integrative way to best support your individual needs and am not bound within one counselling methodology or modality. I will tailor our sessions to your needs, helping you on your journey to better mental health and wellbeing.
Areas with which I often work are: Anxiety; Depression; Self-esteem issues; Bereavement and grief, including loss to suicide; Relationship issues; Concerns related to retirement; Men's issues and LGBTQ+ issues.
I believe that counselling is a powerful and special opportunity to grow and heal and have witnessed the amazing capacity for humans to overcome challenges with the right support. My role is to provide a truly listening ear in a quiet, professional, compassionate and safe space. As a person, I am warm and grounded and someone you will find easy to talk to and trust. I work in a tailored, integrative way to best support your individual needs and am not bound within one counselling methodology or modality. I will tailor our sessions to your needs, helping you on your journey to better mental health and wellbeing.
01884 211280 View 01884 211280
Photo of Bear Burns, Counsellor, MBACP
Bear Burns
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX2
I offer a warm, informal and grounded presence where you'll be empowered to safely explore the issues affecting you right now. As an integrative therapist, I bring multiple therapeutic approaches to our sessions with down to earth realness, and gentle understanding.
I offer a warm, informal and grounded presence where you'll be empowered to safely explore the issues affecting you right now. As an integrative therapist, I bring multiple therapeutic approaches to our sessions with down to earth realness, and gentle understanding.
01647 403913 View 01647 403913
Photo of Adam Draper, Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Adam Draper
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Many, (but not all) of the people I work with have long term health challenges and come from the LGBTQIA+ communities.
I work with the relationship between us and what emerges as we speak, verbally and non-verbally. I use Cognitive (thought/imagery brain based) and Somatic (body and nervous system based) approaches to enhance the process of healing by helping you to identify and change stuck patterns, memories, stress or anxiety in the nervous system.
Many, (but not all) of the people I work with have long term health challenges and come from the LGBTQIA+ communities.
I work with the relationship between us and what emerges as we speak, verbally and non-verbally. I use Cognitive (thought/imagery brain based) and Somatic (body and nervous system based) approaches to enhance the process of healing by helping you to identify and change stuck patterns, memories, stress or anxiety in the nervous system.
020 3835 4932 View 020 3835 4932
Photo of Matt Ridley - Matt Ridley Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Matt Ridley Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Exeter EX1
I work best with clients who are ready to explore change and develop self-reflection and compassion. Some people arrive with big questions about life, identity, and direction. Others may not know exactly what they want, but sense something isn’t quite right — and that’s okay. Clients often choose to work with me because of my experience and the supportive, practical way I help them move forward. With over a decade of experience, I can help you clarify your goals and make meaningful progress in a way that feels manageable and authentic.
I work best with clients who are ready to explore change and develop self-reflection and compassion. Some people arrive with big questions about life, identity, and direction. Others may not know exactly what they want, but sense something isn’t quite right — and that’s okay. Clients often choose to work with me because of my experience and the supportive, practical way I help them move forward. With over a decade of experience, I can help you clarify your goals and make meaningful progress in a way that feels manageable and authentic.
01392 321281 View 01392 321281
Photo of Philip King, MSc
Philip King
Verified Verified
My clients often look like they’re coping. They appear capable and responsible, sometimes highly successful, yet privately they are often anxious, disconnected, self-critical or exhausted. Some carry complex trauma or PTSD; others just know something doesn’t feel right. Many have learned to be the strong one. They don’t just want symptom relief — they want to understand their patterns, feel calmer, build steadier relationships and feel at home in who they truly are. They want the opportunity of a therapeutic relationship that will help them heal from their emotional wounds and unburden themselves.
My clients often look like they’re coping. They appear capable and responsible, sometimes highly successful, yet privately they are often anxious, disconnected, self-critical or exhausted. Some carry complex trauma or PTSD; others just know something doesn’t feel right. Many have learned to be the strong one. They don’t just want symptom relief — they want to understand their patterns, feel calmer, build steadier relationships and feel at home in who they truly are. They want the opportunity of a therapeutic relationship that will help them heal from their emotional wounds and unburden themselves.
01278 554248 View 01278 554248
Photo of Kevin Dudman, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Kevin Dudman
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
Waitlist for new clients
Hello my name is Kevin. I specialise in the treatment of trauma including accidents, medical trauma, work place and childhood bullying, domestic abuse, rape, sexual abuse and traumatic grief. I can also help you with depression, anxiety, worry, low self -esteem, OCD, phobias, body and self esteem issues, chronic pain, porn and Internet addiction. I am an EMDR Consultant and Accredited CBT Psychotherapist with over thirty years’ experience in working in Mental Health within the NHS. Twenty of these have been in senior positions supervising and supporting the clinical practice of a wide range of psychological therapists.
Hello my name is Kevin. I specialise in the treatment of trauma including accidents, medical trauma, work place and childhood bullying, domestic abuse, rape, sexual abuse and traumatic grief. I can also help you with depression, anxiety, worry, low self -esteem, OCD, phobias, body and self esteem issues, chronic pain, porn and Internet addiction. I am an EMDR Consultant and Accredited CBT Psychotherapist with over thirty years’ experience in working in Mental Health within the NHS. Twenty of these have been in senior positions supervising and supporting the clinical practice of a wide range of psychological therapists.
01354 700709 View 01354 700709
Photo of Rachel Lewis, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Rachel Lewis
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
I work with adults & young people facing challenges like depression, grief, trauma, anxiety, neurodivergence, and LGBTQA issues.
Hello, I’m Rachel, and I’m truly glad you’ve found your way here. It takes courage to seek support for your well-being. You may be feeling stuck, anxious, low in mood, or overwhelmed by past or present experiences, maybe linked to trauma, loss, or family and relationship difficulties. You are here no doubt seeking healing and to feel more like yourself and you want to feel understood and supported without judgment. Your ultimate goal may be greater confidence, inner peace, or emotional freedom.
I work with adults & young people facing challenges like depression, grief, trauma, anxiety, neurodivergence, and LGBTQA issues.
Hello, I’m Rachel, and I’m truly glad you’ve found your way here. It takes courage to seek support for your well-being. You may be feeling stuck, anxious, low in mood, or overwhelmed by past or present experiences, maybe linked to trauma, loss, or family and relationship difficulties. You are here no doubt seeking healing and to feel more like yourself and you want to feel understood and supported without judgment. Your ultimate goal may be greater confidence, inner peace, or emotional freedom.
01285 708747 View 01285 708747
Photo of Kaye Stevenson, Counsellor, MBACP
Kaye Stevenson
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX4
I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA community and counsel with the Intercom Trust charity.
Hi, I’m Kaye, a calm, welcoming and inclusive counsellor. I provide a safe and confidential space to help you address what’s weighing on your mind. I offer professional and affordable counselling to explore how various situations and life experiences are affecting you. My goal is to empower you to make positive changes and connect with your inner strength. I am an integrative counsellor which means I use a range of methods to develop a tailored approach that suits your unique needs. Our time together can be talk-based or use more creative tools, we are always led by you and work at your pace in a context of compassion and care.
I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA community and counsel with the Intercom Trust charity.
Hi, I’m Kaye, a calm, welcoming and inclusive counsellor. I provide a safe and confidential space to help you address what’s weighing on your mind. I offer professional and affordable counselling to explore how various situations and life experiences are affecting you. My goal is to empower you to make positive changes and connect with your inner strength. I am an integrative counsellor which means I use a range of methods to develop a tailored approach that suits your unique needs. Our time together can be talk-based or use more creative tools, we are always led by you and work at your pace in a context of compassion and care.
01392 321896 View 01392 321896
Photo of Jayati de Cruz, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Jayati de Cruz
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Serves Area
I have extensive experience of working with clients who idenitfy as LGBTQIA+ as well as those from other marginalised groups, including those affected by addictions and trauma.
Every individual has their own unique journey towards self-acceptance. In our work together, I will help you gain deeper insight into the challenges you are facing and consider ways to bring about meaningful change. We will mutually agree on a pace that feels right for you to start looking more deeply into what is causing you to suffer. Together, we'll explore ways to challenge negative or harmful patterns and identify healthier alternatives. My approach is primarily person-centered, though I may also draw from other therapeutic styles using a holisitic/psychospiritual lens to support the shift towards healing the whole self.
I have extensive experience of working with clients who idenitfy as LGBTQIA+ as well as those from other marginalised groups, including those affected by addictions and trauma.
Every individual has their own unique journey towards self-acceptance. In our work together, I will help you gain deeper insight into the challenges you are facing and consider ways to bring about meaningful change. We will mutually agree on a pace that feels right for you to start looking more deeply into what is causing you to suffer. Together, we'll explore ways to challenge negative or harmful patterns and identify healthier alternatives. My approach is primarily person-centered, though I may also draw from other therapeutic styles using a holisitic/psychospiritual lens to support the shift towards healing the whole self.
020 3879 5350 View 020 3879 5350
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.