LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Oxford
Hello, I'm Julia-Sophie (she/her/hers). I offer in-person and online, short and long term therapy to adults who are seeking clarity and change in their lives. Deciding to start therapy can be overwhelming, particularly during a difficult time. It’s normal to feel uncertain when choosing a therapist. My hope is that throughout our work together, you will find space to experience deeply meaningful conversations, laughter, discovery, and profound empowerment, offering life-changing benefits.
Hello, I'm Julia-Sophie (she/her/hers). I offer in-person and online, short and long term therapy to adults who are seeking clarity and change in their lives. Deciding to start therapy can be overwhelming, particularly during a difficult time. It’s normal to feel uncertain when choosing a therapist. My hope is that throughout our work together, you will find space to experience deeply meaningful conversations, laughter, discovery, and profound empowerment, offering life-changing benefits.
I am inclusive of all genders and relationship structures, including LGBTQIA+ people, ethical non-monogamy, BDSM, and kink.
As a UKCP-accredited psychodynamic therapist with a four-year postgraduate training at Oxford University, I provide a private, confidential space for individuals, couples, and polycules. My work focuses on examining the unconscious patterns influencing your life, relationships, and wellbeing. Whether you are dealing with acute distress or seeking to explore long-standing personal dynamics, I offer a professional, contained environment. I believe lasting change is achieved by working through root causes while simultaneously addressing the symptoms—such as anxiety, depression, or relational disconnection—that bring you to therapy.
I am inclusive of all genders and relationship structures, including LGBTQIA+ people, ethical non-monogamy, BDSM, and kink.
As a UKCP-accredited psychodynamic therapist with a four-year postgraduate training at Oxford University, I provide a private, confidential space for individuals, couples, and polycules. My work focuses on examining the unconscious patterns influencing your life, relationships, and wellbeing. Whether you are dealing with acute distress or seeking to explore long-standing personal dynamics, I offer a professional, contained environment. I believe lasting change is achieved by working through root causes while simultaneously addressing the symptoms—such as anxiety, depression, or relational disconnection—that bring you to therapy.
I work with 1-1 clients and couples / multiple partner clients. I'm also trained by Metanoia Institute for 1-1 work and CICS (contemporary institute of clinical sexology) in intimate partnered therapy to work with couples + multiple partnered people
Reasons to seek out therapy are, much like ourselves, varied, nuanced and complex. A deeply empathic, attentive presence and trust for how you process things and what you decide to bring to therapy are at the heart of my practice.
My work is therefore centred around attending to the whole person, with equal respect and worth for both content and process, both feeling and thinking.
I work with 1-1 clients and couples / multiple partner clients. I'm also trained by Metanoia Institute for 1-1 work and CICS (contemporary institute of clinical sexology) in intimate partnered therapy to work with couples + multiple partnered people
Reasons to seek out therapy are, much like ourselves, varied, nuanced and complex. A deeply empathic, attentive presence and trust for how you process things and what you decide to bring to therapy are at the heart of my practice.
My work is therefore centred around attending to the whole person, with equal respect and worth for both content and process, both feeling and thinking.
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.
Specialising in men’s issues, including sex problems (erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, sex addiction / sexual compulsions, and problematic pornography use / porn addiction); sexual abuse; trauma and PTSD; intrusive sexual thoughts; anger issues; anxiety; depression; adjusting to a physical health condition; relationship issues; stress; sexuality and more. I am a chartered clinical psychologist and EMDR therapist with over 15 years NHS experience of working in mental health and now work full time in private practice online.
Specialising in men’s issues, including sex problems (erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, sex addiction / sexual compulsions, and problematic pornography use / porn addiction); sexual abuse; trauma and PTSD; intrusive sexual thoughts; anger issues; anxiety; depression; adjusting to a physical health condition; relationship issues; stress; sexuality and more. I am a chartered clinical psychologist and EMDR therapist with over 15 years NHS experience of working in mental health and now work full time in private practice online.
For me, physical symptoms were the gateway into healing. My body was telling me something I couldn't yet put into words, and learning to listen to that felt sense changed everything. I see psychosomatic symptoms not as weakness, but as the body's remarkable way of coping with overwhelming pain. Those patterns are signs of strength, which were strategies that once protected you, even if now they may feel limiting.
For me, physical symptoms were the gateway into healing. My body was telling me something I couldn't yet put into words, and learning to listen to that felt sense changed everything. I see psychosomatic symptoms not as weakness, but as the body's remarkable way of coping with overwhelming pain. Those patterns are signs of strength, which were strategies that once protected you, even if now they may feel limiting.
Hi there, I'm Chris.
Have you or a loved one been struggling to cope with anxiety, feeling overwhelmed or low? Maybe social situations are difficult to face, or work and studies are harder to manage? Perhaps you've been experiencing really difficult unwanted and intrusive thoughts, or feeling driven to repeat certain actions. Doing the things that you used to be able to do maybe just feels too heavy. If you're a loved one, maybe you've noticed your young person change from how they used to be. If any of this sounds familiar, I can help by providing a safe and open space to support you in overcoming these challenges.
Hi there, I'm Chris.
Have you or a loved one been struggling to cope with anxiety, feeling overwhelmed or low? Maybe social situations are difficult to face, or work and studies are harder to manage? Perhaps you've been experiencing really difficult unwanted and intrusive thoughts, or feeling driven to repeat certain actions. Doing the things that you used to be able to do maybe just feels too heavy. If you're a loved one, maybe you've noticed your young person change from how they used to be. If any of this sounds familiar, I can help by providing a safe and open space to support you in overcoming these challenges.
I find I work well with clients navigating complex experiences such as intense anxiety, mood instability, trauma, psychosis, or overwhelming emotional experiences. Clients I work alongside often feel misunderstood, stuck or disconnected, and want to make sense of what’s happening inside and around them. Their goals might include seeking relief from distressing symptoms, understanding themselves better, or building a more meaningful life. Many want to process past experiences safely and begin to trust themselves and others again. They’re often seeking a skilled, genuine and compassionate therapist who can support them.
I find I work well with clients navigating complex experiences such as intense anxiety, mood instability, trauma, psychosis, or overwhelming emotional experiences. Clients I work alongside often feel misunderstood, stuck or disconnected, and want to make sense of what’s happening inside and around them. Their goals might include seeking relief from distressing symptoms, understanding themselves better, or building a more meaningful life. Many want to process past experiences safely and begin to trust themselves and others again. They’re often seeking a skilled, genuine and compassionate therapist who can support them.
I’m Matthew, a queer, neurodivergent psychotherapist offering online therapy across the UK.
Have you been diagnosed with ADHD or autism as an adult and found that, instead of clarity, it has brought confusion, grief, or shame? Many of the people I work with are in their 30s and beyond, navigating the impact of late diagnosis on identity, self-worth, and relationships.
I’m Matthew, a queer, neurodivergent psychotherapist offering online therapy across the UK.
Have you been diagnosed with ADHD or autism as an adult and found that, instead of clarity, it has brought confusion, grief, or shame? Many of the people I work with are in their 30s and beyond, navigating the impact of late diagnosis on identity, self-worth, and relationships.
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.
Anyone can access counselling for any reason, there is no ideal client, someone who is willing to explore their inner world and is committed to making positive changes in their life, might get the most out of working with me. If you struggle with issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or self-doubt, feel stuck or overwhelmed and may not know how to move forward or might just be looking to develop as a person.
Anyone can access counselling for any reason, there is no ideal client, someone who is willing to explore their inner world and is committed to making positive changes in their life, might get the most out of working with me. If you struggle with issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or self-doubt, feel stuck or overwhelmed and may not know how to move forward or might just be looking to develop as a person.
We can all find our lives get difficult as events and emotions come and go: these are often left unprocessed until we give ourselves time to think and talk about them. You may be very unhappy or may just be feeling some discontent, or at a crossroads, lacking motivation or direction. My aim is to help you explore all or any area of your life and work out what the future might hold. W H Auden, in his poem in memory of Sigmund Freud, referred to 'a world he changed / simply by looking back with no false regrets'; like him, having explored both the past and the present, I hope you will feel 'able to approach the Future as a friend'.
We can all find our lives get difficult as events and emotions come and go: these are often left unprocessed until we give ourselves time to think and talk about them. You may be very unhappy or may just be feeling some discontent, or at a crossroads, lacking motivation or direction. My aim is to help you explore all or any area of your life and work out what the future might hold. W H Auden, in his poem in memory of Sigmund Freud, referred to 'a world he changed / simply by looking back with no false regrets'; like him, having explored both the past and the present, I hope you will feel 'able to approach the Future as a friend'.
Choosing the right therapist can feel like a daunting task. You may be wondering, "How do I choose a therapist?" or "How will I know if you’re the right fit for me?" These are important questions, and I understand how challenging it can be to find the right support. That’s why I aim to ensure we’re a good match before moving forward.
I begin with a complimentary initial phone conversation, which allows us to get acquainted and break the ice. If the connection feels right for both of us, we can then schedule an initial session.
Choosing the right therapist can feel like a daunting task. You may be wondering, "How do I choose a therapist?" or "How will I know if you’re the right fit for me?" These are important questions, and I understand how challenging it can be to find the right support. That’s why I aim to ensure we’re a good match before moving forward.
I begin with a complimentary initial phone conversation, which allows us to get acquainted and break the ice. If the connection feels right for both of us, we can then schedule an initial session.
Individuals or couples who want to explore relationship issues and work out what they want, whether in the relationship or out of it. Highly experienced in working with infidelity. I help clients identify patterns of destructive communication and rebuild connection. I work with individuals who need support with decision making about their relationship. who may be experiencing anxiety or low self -esteem as a result. Having worked extensively in the corporate sector for many years I also offer single session therapy for clients who feel they are at a career crossroads and would benefit from objective and constructive listening.
Individuals or couples who want to explore relationship issues and work out what they want, whether in the relationship or out of it. Highly experienced in working with infidelity. I help clients identify patterns of destructive communication and rebuild connection. I work with individuals who need support with decision making about their relationship. who may be experiencing anxiety or low self -esteem as a result. Having worked extensively in the corporate sector for many years I also offer single session therapy for clients who feel they are at a career crossroads and would benefit from objective and constructive listening.
My service is provided as a specialist sex and relationship therapist. I aim to provide a safe environment in which clients can share their intimate thoughts and problems with no fear of judgement. I honour all sexual orientations, gender identities and sexual preferences. I am kink aware and knowledgable and take a sex positive approach. Specific issues covered include: erection problems, inability to orgasm, low sexual desire, painful intercourse, premature/early ejaculation, problematic porn use, relationship problems–couples/poly, (sex, gender, erotic, relationship) identity, BDSM, kinks and fetishes, vaginismus
My service is provided as a specialist sex and relationship therapist. I aim to provide a safe environment in which clients can share their intimate thoughts and problems with no fear of judgement. I honour all sexual orientations, gender identities and sexual preferences. I am kink aware and knowledgable and take a sex positive approach. Specific issues covered include: erection problems, inability to orgasm, low sexual desire, painful intercourse, premature/early ejaculation, problematic porn use, relationship problems–couples/poly, (sex, gender, erotic, relationship) identity, BDSM, kinks and fetishes, vaginismus
I am a Chartered Psychologist registered with the Health and Care Professions Council and the British Psychological Society. I have more than 20 years experience in higher education, the private sector and the NHS. I provide warm, respectful and personally tailored therapy for adults, teenagers and their families, covering a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, stress, and PTSD. My training in a diverse range of psychological techniques allows me to offer therapy adapted to an individual’s needs.
I am a Chartered Psychologist registered with the Health and Care Professions Council and the British Psychological Society. I have more than 20 years experience in higher education, the private sector and the NHS. I provide warm, respectful and personally tailored therapy for adults, teenagers and their families, covering a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, stress, and PTSD. My training in a diverse range of psychological techniques allows me to offer therapy adapted to an individual’s needs.
Hello, I am Joanne. I have been a family therapist in the NHS for over 20yrs. I have recently retired from working with young people and their families in Camhs and now I am offering family therapy privately. I have also worked as a family therapist in Adult Psychological Services. I work with families facing difficulties with mental health issues which are then impacting on communication/relationships within the family.
Hello, I am Joanne. I have been a family therapist in the NHS for over 20yrs. I have recently retired from working with young people and their families in Camhs and now I am offering family therapy privately. I have also worked as a family therapist in Adult Psychological Services. I work with families facing difficulties with mental health issues which are then impacting on communication/relationships within the family.
Seeking therapy can be a confusing process; one complicated by the fact that many come during a time of crisis. I provide a supportive, confidential space where we can think openly, free of judgement, about different aspects of you and your life. I offer psychodynamic counselling and psychotherapy, both once and twice a week at a private clinic in Headington, Oxford.
Seeking therapy can be a confusing process; one complicated by the fact that many come during a time of crisis. I provide a supportive, confidential space where we can think openly, free of judgement, about different aspects of you and your life. I offer psychodynamic counselling and psychotherapy, both once and twice a week at a private clinic in Headington, Oxford.
Therapy gives you the chance to do a deep dive into the hopes, fears, frustrations and uncertainties that stand in the way of your personal contentment.
These issues can nurture anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or even self-destructive behaviour. It gets hard to manage your emotions at home or stress at work; your relationships and friendships suffer. Often there is a underlying psychological trauma that needs to be addressed.
Life's inevitable changes - career, money, children, ageing, health - bring their own challenges. Whatever's happening in your world, I am here to help you move forward in your life.
Therapy gives you the chance to do a deep dive into the hopes, fears, frustrations and uncertainties that stand in the way of your personal contentment.
These issues can nurture anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or even self-destructive behaviour. It gets hard to manage your emotions at home or stress at work; your relationships and friendships suffer. Often there is a underlying psychological trauma that needs to be addressed.
Life's inevitable changes - career, money, children, ageing, health - bring their own challenges. Whatever's happening in your world, I am here to help you move forward in your life.
Life can be hard at times; work can be stressful, relationships challenging and circumstances in the past and present can all affect our emotional health. Perhaps you struggle with anxiety or low mood or self esteem, or a life event has knocked you off course. When we're struggling it can be really helpful to speak with someone outside of our family and friends who can gently help you understand the why behind your feelings and behaviour; and offer the hope of change.
Life can be hard at times; work can be stressful, relationships challenging and circumstances in the past and present can all affect our emotional health. Perhaps you struggle with anxiety or low mood or self esteem, or a life event has knocked you off course. When we're struggling it can be really helpful to speak with someone outside of our family and friends who can gently help you understand the why behind your feelings and behaviour; and offer the hope of change.
See more therapy options for Oxford
Nearby LGBTQ+ Counsellors Searches for Oxford
- Abingdon
- Aylesbury
- Bicester
- Didcot
- Faringdon
- Hemel Hempstead
- Kidlington
- Princes Risborough
- Thame
- Wallingford
- Witney
- Woodstock
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.