Female Counselling in Pudsey

Photo of Ashleigh Gardner, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Ashleigh Gardner
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Pudsey LS28
Making the first step and looking for a counsellor to work with can feel scary and overwhelming. It’s hard to know what to say or what to expect, especially if you have not had counselling before. Building a safe and trusting relationship with your counsellor is important. It can take time to do this, but it is important that you feel comfortable enough with them in the beginning to start on that journey. I offer a safe space, where you will be truly listened to without expectation or judgement. This allows my clients to feel comfortable in being open and honest so that they can get the most out of their sessions.
Making the first step and looking for a counsellor to work with can feel scary and overwhelming. It’s hard to know what to say or what to expect, especially if you have not had counselling before. Building a safe and trusting relationship with your counsellor is important. It can take time to do this, but it is important that you feel comfortable enough with them in the beginning to start on that journey. I offer a safe space, where you will be truly listened to without expectation or judgement. This allows my clients to feel comfortable in being open and honest so that they can get the most out of their sessions.
0113 519 8625 View 0113 519 8625
Photo of Susannah Christine Barnes - With The Seasons - Counselling & Trauma Therapy, Counsellor, MBACP
With The Seasons - Counselling & Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Pudsey LS28
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling out of sync with the world and other people? You may be going through a bereavement or significant life changes, feeling anxious, depressed, lonely, confused, misunderstood or be living with Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD) or Long Covid. I can help you reconnect to yourself and others. I can support you with the things that are holding you back as well as help you make more sense of the new world around you. I help you work with the body and mind together - a more effective way to stabilise and rebuild after a traumatic time as well as enable new insights and change - than bringing your pain up over and over again.
Are you feeling out of sync with the world and other people? You may be going through a bereavement or significant life changes, feeling anxious, depressed, lonely, confused, misunderstood or be living with Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD) or Long Covid. I can help you reconnect to yourself and others. I can support you with the things that are holding you back as well as help you make more sense of the new world around you. I help you work with the body and mind together - a more effective way to stabilise and rebuild after a traumatic time as well as enable new insights and change - than bringing your pain up over and over again.
01274 015886 View 01274 015886
Photo of Donna Dibb, Counsellor, MBACP
Donna Dibb
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Pudsey LS28
I'm Donna, a qualified counsellor and creative soul. I'm here to support you through life's challenges, changes and the messy bits in between.
I'm Donna, a qualified counsellor and creative soul. I'm here to support you through life's challenges, changes and the messy bits in between.
01274 041647 View 01274 041647
Photo of Steph Bentley, Counsellor, MBACP
Steph Bentley
Counsellor, MBACP
Pudsey LS28
I provide counselling to adults age 18 and over – any gender, cultural background or sexual orientation. Some of the themes I have worked with are: domestic abuse, bereavement, divorce / separation, family and unhealthy relationships, neurodiversity, difficult childhood experiences, CPTSD and trauma, low self-worth, anxiety and depression. If you are reading this, I suspect you are having a bit of a tough time at the moment. I want you to know that I am here to listen to your experiences and to try and understand you. Whatever it is, I am here to go on this journey with you and provide a safe non-judgmental space.
I provide counselling to adults age 18 and over – any gender, cultural background or sexual orientation. Some of the themes I have worked with are: domestic abuse, bereavement, divorce / separation, family and unhealthy relationships, neurodiversity, difficult childhood experiences, CPTSD and trauma, low self-worth, anxiety and depression. If you are reading this, I suspect you are having a bit of a tough time at the moment. I want you to know that I am here to listen to your experiences and to try and understand you. Whatever it is, I am here to go on this journey with you and provide a safe non-judgmental space.
0113 519 5858 View 0113 519 5858
Photo of Janine Ellis, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Janine Ellis
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Pudsey LS28
My practice is anti-racist, feminist, LGBTQ+ aware/inclusive. I support people of all gender identities, sexual orientations and relationship styles (GSRD). Before re-training, I worked in the music industry for twenty years at cult independent record labels Rough Trade and Warp. Therefore, as well as working with a wide range of people, I also provide specialist counselling to musicians/music industry workers as I understand the unique nature and distinct needs of the music community. My previous professional experience has proven helpful to clients involved in the wider creative communities too.
My practice is anti-racist, feminist, LGBTQ+ aware/inclusive. I support people of all gender identities, sexual orientations and relationship styles (GSRD). Before re-training, I worked in the music industry for twenty years at cult independent record labels Rough Trade and Warp. Therefore, as well as working with a wide range of people, I also provide specialist counselling to musicians/music industry workers as I understand the unique nature and distinct needs of the music community. My previous professional experience has proven helpful to clients involved in the wider creative communities too.
0113 519 8691 View 0113 519 8691
Photo of Dr Samara Ali, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Samara Ali
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Pudsey LS28
You may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of yourself. Perhaps you’re carrying the weight of past experiences, struggling with low confidence, or finding it hard to navigate relationships and daily life. You may be questioning whether difficulties with attention, memory, or learning are part of what’s holding you back, or wondering if a diagnosis like ADHD or autism could explain your challenges. Deep down, you want answers, relief, and a way forward. More than anything, you want to feel understood, rebuild your confidence, and reconnect with the person you know you truly are inside.
You may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of yourself. Perhaps you’re carrying the weight of past experiences, struggling with low confidence, or finding it hard to navigate relationships and daily life. You may be questioning whether difficulties with attention, memory, or learning are part of what’s holding you back, or wondering if a diagnosis like ADHD or autism could explain your challenges. Deep down, you want answers, relief, and a way forward. More than anything, you want to feel understood, rebuild your confidence, and reconnect with the person you know you truly are inside.
01274 041677 View 01274 041677
Photo of Gemma Lyness, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Gemma Lyness
Psychotherapist, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Pudsey LS28
Perhaps you are going through something that feels too overwhelming to tackle alone. People seek counselling for many reasons; a life crisis, relationship issues, a bereavement, work-related stress, lacking confidence, difficulty moving on from painful childhood experiences, a lack of purpose and meaning. Whatever your reasons, talking about your difficulties with someone who truly listens is the first step towards making them manageable. A strong therapeutic relationship can bring relief, support when it is most needed and transformative change.
Perhaps you are going through something that feels too overwhelming to tackle alone. People seek counselling for many reasons; a life crisis, relationship issues, a bereavement, work-related stress, lacking confidence, difficulty moving on from painful childhood experiences, a lack of purpose and meaning. Whatever your reasons, talking about your difficulties with someone who truly listens is the first step towards making them manageable. A strong therapeutic relationship can bring relief, support when it is most needed and transformative change.
0113 519 0163 View 0113 519 0163
Photo of Dr Rebecca Szlachcic, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Rebecca Szlachcic
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Pudsey LS28
I am an experienced HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist working in the NHS and in the private sector. I am a trauma informed therapist, recognising that many people are trying their best to cope and live with the difficult life experiences they have been through. I understand the importance of the therapeutic relationship in finding a ‘good fit’ with a therapist. I enjoy working collaboratively and creatively with individuals and have experience in working with people with mild to severe mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychosis and personality difficulties.
I am an experienced HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist working in the NHS and in the private sector. I am a trauma informed therapist, recognising that many people are trying their best to cope and live with the difficult life experiences they have been through. I understand the importance of the therapeutic relationship in finding a ‘good fit’ with a therapist. I enjoy working collaboratively and creatively with individuals and have experience in working with people with mild to severe mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychosis and personality difficulties.
0113 467 9507 View 0113 467 9507
Photo of Alison Whittam, Counsellor, MBACP
Alison Whittam
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Pudsey LS28
Having had counselling for a bereavement, I know first hand how valuable it can be to people's lives. As a result, my passion for helping others has grown. I love being outdoors whether its a local stroll or across the country side. After a career in education, I now work with adults and young people who may be struggling with anxiety, awaiting a neurodiverse diagnosis, depression or a dilemma. Together we will work through this is in a quiet, confidential space that is free from judgment. This could be indoors or in the open air as sometimes being outside can be more comfortable than in a counselling room.
Having had counselling for a bereavement, I know first hand how valuable it can be to people's lives. As a result, my passion for helping others has grown. I love being outdoors whether its a local stroll or across the country side. After a career in education, I now work with adults and young people who may be struggling with anxiety, awaiting a neurodiverse diagnosis, depression or a dilemma. Together we will work through this is in a quiet, confidential space that is free from judgment. This could be indoors or in the open air as sometimes being outside can be more comfortable than in a counselling room.
01274 041357 View 01274 041357
Photo of Sian Johnson, Psychotherapist, MA, UKCP Trainee
Sian Johnson
Psychotherapist, MA, UKCP Trainee
Pudsey LS28
I offer Relational Gestalt Psychotherapy appointments online and from my home in Pudsey, West Yorkshire. I offer a safe, compassionate, discreet and confidential space for you to explore what matters to you. I have worked as a life coach and sex therapist since 2018 and training in Relational Gestalt Psychotherapy since 2020. As a Psychotherapist in Advanced Training, I provide a confidential, non-judgmental environment for you to explore what you are bringing at a pace that suits you. I feel deeply honoured to be working in this field with people who are ready to explore, grow and live richer and more meaningful lives.
I offer Relational Gestalt Psychotherapy appointments online and from my home in Pudsey, West Yorkshire. I offer a safe, compassionate, discreet and confidential space for you to explore what matters to you. I have worked as a life coach and sex therapist since 2018 and training in Relational Gestalt Psychotherapy since 2020. As a Psychotherapist in Advanced Training, I provide a confidential, non-judgmental environment for you to explore what you are bringing at a pace that suits you. I feel deeply honoured to be working in this field with people who are ready to explore, grow and live richer and more meaningful lives.
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Photo of Paulina Rybak - Lighthouse Therapy, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Lighthouse Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Pudsey LS28
I offer a broad range of psychological services tailored to meet the unique needs of each person I work with. As a person-centred, relational, integrative, and creative psychotherapist, I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches to support your journey, always guided by what works best for you. Psychoeducation is central to my practice, reflecting my professional roots in teaching. I believe that knowledge can be deeply empowering. Helping clients understand the 'why' behind their experiences is an integral part of how I work. As a passionate lifelong learner, I have recently begun a postgraduate clinical psychology program.
I offer a broad range of psychological services tailored to meet the unique needs of each person I work with. As a person-centred, relational, integrative, and creative psychotherapist, I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches to support your journey, always guided by what works best for you. Psychoeducation is central to my practice, reflecting my professional roots in teaching. I believe that knowledge can be deeply empowering. Helping clients understand the 'why' behind their experiences is an integral part of how I work. As a passionate lifelong learner, I have recently begun a postgraduate clinical psychology program.
0113 519 0459 View 0113 519 0459
Photo of Cat Brown, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Cat Brown
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
When it’s not always possible to chat to a friend or loved one about personal issues counselling can be really helpful. Using a warm and down to earth style my sessions will use techniques to help discover the underlying symptoms, using a non direct approach. This will allow us to explore any issues you have, develop ways to overcome them, and move forward positively at a pace that feels right for you. As a fully qualified therapist, I offer help if you suffer emotional from problems with low self esteem, relationships, work related stress, abuse, child related issues, abandonment, drug abuse and addiction, amongst many others.
When it’s not always possible to chat to a friend or loved one about personal issues counselling can be really helpful. Using a warm and down to earth style my sessions will use techniques to help discover the underlying symptoms, using a non direct approach. This will allow us to explore any issues you have, develop ways to overcome them, and move forward positively at a pace that feels right for you. As a fully qualified therapist, I offer help if you suffer emotional from problems with low self esteem, relationships, work related stress, abuse, child related issues, abandonment, drug abuse and addiction, amongst many others.
0113 487 2776 View 0113 487 2776
Photo of Steph Callaghan, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Steph Callaghan
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
My speciality is using animal assisted therapy with neurodiversity and forensic/ex-offender counselling. I am an authentic person, I work in a creative way to offer therapy that meets your needs when words alone are not enough. I work with complex trauma, abuse and addiction. I also offer pre-trial therapy and support to ex-offenders also known as forensic counselling, I support people on probation and at risk of committing further offences. I have worked across many settings including Education, alternative education, CAMHS, the third sector and the NHS. I am a neurodivergent therapist
My speciality is using animal assisted therapy with neurodiversity and forensic/ex-offender counselling. I am an authentic person, I work in a creative way to offer therapy that meets your needs when words alone are not enough. I work with complex trauma, abuse and addiction. I also offer pre-trial therapy and support to ex-offenders also known as forensic counselling, I support people on probation and at risk of committing further offences. I have worked across many settings including Education, alternative education, CAMHS, the third sector and the NHS. I am a neurodivergent therapist
0113 519 5078 View 0113 519 5078
Photo of Sophie Bell, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Sophie Bell
Psychotherapist, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am passionate about supporting those who identify as LGBTQIA+, ADHD or neurodivergent. I am relational, collaborative and holistic, placing value and importance in you, your story and your challenges and successes. Choosing a therapist is a very personal decision and finding someone that you feel comfortable with is an important part of your process. You might be struggling with anxiety, anger or depression? Perhaps issues from your past keep resurfacing and you're looking for a way to move forward? Maybe you have noticed you feel different to the people around you? Or you might like to process an event in a safe environment?
I am passionate about supporting those who identify as LGBTQIA+, ADHD or neurodivergent. I am relational, collaborative and holistic, placing value and importance in you, your story and your challenges and successes. Choosing a therapist is a very personal decision and finding someone that you feel comfortable with is an important part of your process. You might be struggling with anxiety, anger or depression? Perhaps issues from your past keep resurfacing and you're looking for a way to move forward? Maybe you have noticed you feel different to the people around you? Or you might like to process an event in a safe environment?
01274 015925 View 01274 015925
Photo of Shabana Shafiq - New Dawn Psychological Therapies, Psychologist, PhD, GMBPsS
New Dawn Psychological Therapies
Psychologist, PhD, GMBPsS
Serves Area
Thank you for visiting New Dawn Psychological Therapies profile. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Struggling to manage stress, anxiety, depression or cope with past trauma? You're not alone. If you feel like you're barely keeping your head above water, I'm here to help. As a psychologist and counsellor therapist, I recognise that life is not linear. We are all on a journey towards realising our full potential however, this journey can often be hindered by negative life experiences outside of our control. But please know, you are a unique individual of worth, and it is possible to heal, energise, and become aware of your inner strengths.
Thank you for visiting New Dawn Psychological Therapies profile. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Struggling to manage stress, anxiety, depression or cope with past trauma? You're not alone. If you feel like you're barely keeping your head above water, I'm here to help. As a psychologist and counsellor therapist, I recognise that life is not linear. We are all on a journey towards realising our full potential however, this journey can often be hindered by negative life experiences outside of our control. But please know, you are a unique individual of worth, and it is possible to heal, energise, and become aware of your inner strengths.
0113 519 1877 View 0113 519 1877
Photo of Tamara Hoyton, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Tamara Hoyton
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, and a warm welcome to my website. I am a very experienced Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor who specialises in Anxiety, Depression, Sexual Issues, Relationship Problems and work related stress. I am a highly qualified practioner offering Individual Psychotherapy, Counselling, Psychosexual Therapy and Couples Therapy in the Leeds and Bradford area. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Life success indicators show increased relational satisfaction as key to personal happiness and good therapy can improve this. I am proud to have over 20 years of being in practice.
Hello, and a warm welcome to my website. I am a very experienced Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor who specialises in Anxiety, Depression, Sexual Issues, Relationship Problems and work related stress. I am a highly qualified practioner offering Individual Psychotherapy, Counselling, Psychosexual Therapy and Couples Therapy in the Leeds and Bradford area. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Life success indicators show increased relational satisfaction as key to personal happiness and good therapy can improve this. I am proud to have over 20 years of being in practice.
0113 467 8104 View 0113 467 8104
Photo of Emma Louise Hughes - Emma Hughes Counselling, Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Emma Hughes Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
I am a Leeds based BACP accredited counsellor available for individual counselling with people over 18yrs. I offer discount rates for full-time students with valid I.D. Further discounts are available for counselling students requiring counselling sessions for qualification. As an accredited member of the BACP I work within their ethical framework. You maybe thinking of counselling because you are feeling confused or alone at the moment and are struggling to cope. During an initial meeting together we can look at what you feel is and isn't working in your life and where you would like to be by the end of our counselling sessions.
I am a Leeds based BACP accredited counsellor available for individual counselling with people over 18yrs. I offer discount rates for full-time students with valid I.D. Further discounts are available for counselling students requiring counselling sessions for qualification. As an accredited member of the BACP I work within their ethical framework. You maybe thinking of counselling because you are feeling confused or alone at the moment and are struggling to cope. During an initial meeting together we can look at what you feel is and isn't working in your life and where you would like to be by the end of our counselling sessions.
0113 519 7124 View 0113 519 7124
Photo of Debbie Frost - Debbie Frost Counselling & Hypnotherapy, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Debbie Frost Counselling & Hypnotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
I am a counsellor and hypnotherapist, working  with adults and teenagers, I work with issues such as adult survivors of sexual abuse, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, suicide,confidence building, pain relief, depression, low self esteem, regression work, anger, domestic violence, sexual abuse, bereavement, trauma, bullying, self harm, phobia's, insomnia, weight loss, stopping smoking and other issues I am a qualified and experienced counsellor and hypnotherapist, I am a member of BACP. I have worked with DISC a drugs rehabilitation unit in Leeds and I also volunteered for BARCA Reaching out Counselling & psychotherapy services
I am a counsellor and hypnotherapist, working  with adults and teenagers, I work with issues such as adult survivors of sexual abuse, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, suicide,confidence building, pain relief, depression, low self esteem, regression work, anger, domestic violence, sexual abuse, bereavement, trauma, bullying, self harm, phobia's, insomnia, weight loss, stopping smoking and other issues I am a qualified and experienced counsellor and hypnotherapist, I am a member of BACP. I have worked with DISC a drugs rehabilitation unit in Leeds and I also volunteered for BARCA Reaching out Counselling & psychotherapy services
01274 288625 View 01274 288625
Photo of Sammi Ryan, Counsellor, BACP
Sammi Ryan
Counsellor, BACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for Survivors of Childhood Sexual abuse and Survivors of Domestic Abuse. I am passionate about empowering you to heal from traumatic experiences and grow in any way that works for you and your life. Experienced in working with Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Domestic abuse, I know I can be with you every step of the way, being with you during the darker times to help you process your thoughts and feelings, and being with you to celebrate your breakthroughs and growth and healing!
I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for Survivors of Childhood Sexual abuse and Survivors of Domestic Abuse. I am passionate about empowering you to heal from traumatic experiences and grow in any way that works for you and your life. Experienced in working with Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Domestic abuse, I know I can be with you every step of the way, being with you during the darker times to help you process your thoughts and feelings, and being with you to celebrate your breakthroughs and growth and healing!
0113 519 4526 View 0113 519 4526
Photo of Dr Aneesa Shariff, Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Aneesa Shariff
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may be successful but your worries and tendency to go over worst case scenarios in your head are so hard to control. Perhaps your anxiety is making it difficult for you to sleep well, relax, causing problems in your relationships, or bringing on panic attacks. You may have been coping by trying to block the worries out or avoid the situations that trigger your anxiety, but this is only making it harder for you to be present in your life and relationships the way you want to be. I'm here to help and let you know that you can learn to live life in the moment and learn to trust in your coping skills again.
You may be successful but your worries and tendency to go over worst case scenarios in your head are so hard to control. Perhaps your anxiety is making it difficult for you to sleep well, relax, causing problems in your relationships, or bringing on panic attacks. You may have been coping by trying to block the worries out or avoid the situations that trigger your anxiety, but this is only making it harder for you to be present in your life and relationships the way you want to be. I'm here to help and let you know that you can learn to live life in the moment and learn to trust in your coping skills again.
0113 519 0623 View 0113 519 0623
Female Counsellors

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or because they feel more comfortable with a therapist of their own gender due to shared life experiences or perspectives. Considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender may matter or improve their therapeutic experience. The most important consideration is that a client is able to build a trusting relationship with their therapist.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist. For women, this could be because they believe that they will be able to better connect with a woman, and that a female therapist will be able to relate to their specific challenges and personal issues. It may be particularly beneficial for women to see a female therapist, for example, for gender-specific issues, such as sexism in the workplace, relationship issues, and gender roles. The most important factor in therapy is the client-therapist connection, and a therapist's gender as well as many other factors may play an important role in this.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.