Lesbian Counselling in Rayleigh
I am a chartered clinical psychologist with 15 years experience in mental health. Whilst working in the NHS, I have set up The Sycamore Private Practice so that people outside of mental health services can access support. I have worked with people, who have benefited from making sense of difficult or/and frightening experiences, improving their mood or lowering anxiety. If you would like a safe place in order to understand more about what is going on for you, or perhaps have specific areas that need a focus, we can do this together and at a pace that suits you. I have listed my areas of expertise and experience as a guide for you.
I am a chartered clinical psychologist with 15 years experience in mental health. Whilst working in the NHS, I have set up The Sycamore Private Practice so that people outside of mental health services can access support. I have worked with people, who have benefited from making sense of difficult or/and frightening experiences, improving their mood or lowering anxiety. If you would like a safe place in order to understand more about what is going on for you, or perhaps have specific areas that need a focus, we can do this together and at a pace that suits you. I have listed my areas of expertise and experience as a guide for you.
I am a qualified clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience working within NHS and private sectors. I have experience working with adults and young people experiencing a range of mental health difficulties. I take time to get to know you and your presenting issues taking into consideration past experiences, family dynamics and issues that you feel need addressing or are holding you back. We would then develop a person centered care plan to best suit your goals. I am experienced in dealing with a range of mental health conditions along with more exploratory work and have a special interest in neurodiversity and mental health
I am a qualified clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience working within NHS and private sectors. I have experience working with adults and young people experiencing a range of mental health difficulties. I take time to get to know you and your presenting issues taking into consideration past experiences, family dynamics and issues that you feel need addressing or are holding you back. We would then develop a person centered care plan to best suit your goals. I am experienced in dealing with a range of mental health conditions along with more exploratory work and have a special interest in neurodiversity and mental health
I am an experienced and fully qualified Couples Counsellor, Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist with a background in both Person-centred Humanistic counselling and an Advanced Diploma in Psychodynamic counselling. I am a fully qualified Relate counsellor having 1500+ hours experience. I have experience in my practice using Transactional Analysis, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Systemic family Counselling using genograms, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
I am an experienced and fully qualified Couples Counsellor, Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist with a background in both Person-centred Humanistic counselling and an Advanced Diploma in Psychodynamic counselling. I am a fully qualified Relate counsellor having 1500+ hours experience. I have experience in my practice using Transactional Analysis, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Systemic family Counselling using genograms, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
Welcome, My name is Laura, I am a fully qualified Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor offering both long and short-term therapy. We are all presented with many different challenges in all aspects of our daily lives, including work, health, relationships and with our own well-being. Reaching out for help can often feel overwhelming, however, the rewards in taking that difficult first step can be life-changing. I have experience and successfully worked with those suffering with depression, anxiety, loneliness, loss & grief domestic abuse, suicidal thoughts and chronic illness amongst various other issues.
Welcome, My name is Laura, I am a fully qualified Integrative Therapeutic Counsellor offering both long and short-term therapy. We are all presented with many different challenges in all aspects of our daily lives, including work, health, relationships and with our own well-being. Reaching out for help can often feel overwhelming, however, the rewards in taking that difficult first step can be life-changing. I have experience and successfully worked with those suffering with depression, anxiety, loneliness, loss & grief domestic abuse, suicidal thoughts and chronic illness amongst various other issues.
My own experience of therapy inspired me to become a psychotherapist. Through therapy, I gained a deeper understanding of how early experiences can shape our relationships, emotions and sense of self. This journey helped me move beyond patterns that had left me feeling stuck and develop a more fulfilling way of living. As a therapist, I offer a safe, compassionate and non-judgemental space where you can explore your difficulties, gain insight and work towards meaningful and lasting change. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck or struggling to move forward, I invite you to get in touch.
My own experience of therapy inspired me to become a psychotherapist. Through therapy, I gained a deeper understanding of how early experiences can shape our relationships, emotions and sense of self. This journey helped me move beyond patterns that had left me feeling stuck and develop a more fulfilling way of living. As a therapist, I offer a safe, compassionate and non-judgemental space where you can explore your difficulties, gain insight and work towards meaningful and lasting change. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck or struggling to move forward, I invite you to get in touch.
The Water Tower Therapy Centre Specialist Therapy
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Taking the first step to seek support can feel daunting, especially when trauma, grief, or emotional difficulty leaves you feeling stuck or overwhelmed. You don’t have to carry this alone.
At The Water Tower Therapy Centre, our experienced therapists work with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship and couples issues, and complex grief. We offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space tailored to your needs. When you get in touch, we’ll match you with the therapist best suited to you.
Looking after your mental health can improve your relationships, confidence, and sense of purpose. If you’re ready, we can help.
Taking the first step to seek support can feel daunting, especially when trauma, grief, or emotional difficulty leaves you feeling stuck or overwhelmed. You don’t have to carry this alone.
At The Water Tower Therapy Centre, our experienced therapists work with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship and couples issues, and complex grief. We offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space tailored to your needs. When you get in touch, we’ll match you with the therapist best suited to you.
Looking after your mental health can improve your relationships, confidence, and sense of purpose. If you’re ready, we can help.
If this is your first time coming into therapy, welcome. I know it can be daunting, but please remember you’ve made a decision to help yourself and that is a massive step in itself. Living these days can be very difficult for some people on a daily basis without any other stress, pressure, demands, anxiety, or feelings of being overwhelming coming into the mix. We all need a little help from time to time and I am here to help you not have to carry those heavy burdens alone. My main focus is on you; your aims, your truth, the real you, you feel you longer can be and how we can work together to get you back on track.
If this is your first time coming into therapy, welcome. I know it can be daunting, but please remember you’ve made a decision to help yourself and that is a massive step in itself. Living these days can be very difficult for some people on a daily basis without any other stress, pressure, demands, anxiety, or feelings of being overwhelming coming into the mix. We all need a little help from time to time and I am here to help you not have to carry those heavy burdens alone. My main focus is on you; your aims, your truth, the real you, you feel you longer can be and how we can work together to get you back on track.
I am committed to providing a safe non judgemental space for you to discuss any issues that may be affecting you life, relationships and general wellbeing. We are all unique individuals facing different life challenges, which we may find difficult to express in our relationships. Therapy can provide a safe space to discuss any issues that you are struggling with. I work from an integrative approach, which means I will endeavour to tailor our sessions to meet your own personal requirements, allowing you to gain the most out of your therapy.
I am committed to providing a safe non judgemental space for you to discuss any issues that may be affecting you life, relationships and general wellbeing. We are all unique individuals facing different life challenges, which we may find difficult to express in our relationships. Therapy can provide a safe space to discuss any issues that you are struggling with. I work from an integrative approach, which means I will endeavour to tailor our sessions to meet your own personal requirements, allowing you to gain the most out of your therapy.
My ideal clients are adults carrying the weight of childhood trauma, complex grief, or attachment wounds — often survivors of abuse, adoptees, or those stuck between grief and acceptance after loss. They come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unable to move forward despite years of trying.
Using EMDR, IFS-informed approaches, and IADC Therapy, I help process unresolved trauma, release stuck grief, and address root causes rather than just symptoms. For those wanting faster results, I offer intensive therapy — three hours daily over three days.
Together, we work towards lasting change, so you can finally move forward.
My ideal clients are adults carrying the weight of childhood trauma, complex grief, or attachment wounds — often survivors of abuse, adoptees, or those stuck between grief and acceptance after loss. They come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unable to move forward despite years of trying.
Using EMDR, IFS-informed approaches, and IADC Therapy, I help process unresolved trauma, release stuck grief, and address root causes rather than just symptoms. For those wanting faster results, I offer intensive therapy — three hours daily over three days.
Together, we work towards lasting change, so you can finally move forward.
Are you looking for effective help to deal with trauma, panic and anxiety? Are you fed up with labels and diagnoses that do nothing to resolve the symptoms and pain that you're suffering with? CPTSD, PTSD, GAD and BPD are labels that define your symptoms, but that don't tackle the cause or do anything useful to relieve them. I specialise in helping people with anxiety and PSTD and have helped many people just like you, who have been struggling, sometimes for decades. I won't dredge up unnecessary past experiences - I only work with what is relevant. Also if you prefer, you won't have to speak in detail about your issue.
Are you looking for effective help to deal with trauma, panic and anxiety? Are you fed up with labels and diagnoses that do nothing to resolve the symptoms and pain that you're suffering with? CPTSD, PTSD, GAD and BPD are labels that define your symptoms, but that don't tackle the cause or do anything useful to relieve them. I specialise in helping people with anxiety and PSTD and have helped many people just like you, who have been struggling, sometimes for decades. I won't dredge up unnecessary past experiences - I only work with what is relevant. Also if you prefer, you won't have to speak in detail about your issue.
More Therapists Nearby
I believe you are the expert in your own life and experiences, and I work in a person-centred way to come alongside you in your journey towards mental health, empowerment, wellness, and the life you want. I am passionate about supporting my clients in reclaiming their sense of self, belonging, wellness, relationships, narrative, needs, agency, and voice. As a HCPC registered Psychotherapist in Drama and Movement therapy, I offer sessions that are uniquely crafted for your needs, which can include a combination of psychodynamic talking therapy, somatic body work, non-verbal therapies, and drama, art, and movement therapy.
I believe you are the expert in your own life and experiences, and I work in a person-centred way to come alongside you in your journey towards mental health, empowerment, wellness, and the life you want. I am passionate about supporting my clients in reclaiming their sense of self, belonging, wellness, relationships, narrative, needs, agency, and voice. As a HCPC registered Psychotherapist in Drama and Movement therapy, I offer sessions that are uniquely crafted for your needs, which can include a combination of psychodynamic talking therapy, somatic body work, non-verbal therapies, and drama, art, and movement therapy.
LGBTQ+ Affirmative, Addiction and Trauma Informed. My approach is psychodynamic, meaning that we will work in a way which explores links between past and present relationships and experiences. In particular, I can help you to explore how the impact of the past has led to the development of unconscious, repetitive patterns in the different parts of your life such as intimate relationships and work, which may have become unhelpful.
By becoming more aware of these parts of yourself that may be hidden, more informed choices can be made and life can be experienced from a place of increased emotional freedom and openness.
LGBTQ+ Affirmative, Addiction and Trauma Informed. My approach is psychodynamic, meaning that we will work in a way which explores links between past and present relationships and experiences. In particular, I can help you to explore how the impact of the past has led to the development of unconscious, repetitive patterns in the different parts of your life such as intimate relationships and work, which may have become unhelpful.
By becoming more aware of these parts of yourself that may be hidden, more informed choices can be made and life can be experienced from a place of increased emotional freedom and openness.
Accepting clients for online therapy • I specialize in working with clients experiencing difficulties with self-esteem, assertiveness, childhood relational trauma, exploration of sexual orientation and gender, and challenges related to neurodivergence. I work frequently with individuals who identify with the LGBTQ+, gifted, ADHD, and ASD communities. Using an integrative approach tailored to the needs of each individual, I strive to help my clients understand and find practical ways to cope with their challenges. I primarily draw upon person-centred, psychodynamic, and solution-focused approaches to therapy in my work.
Accepting clients for online therapy • I specialize in working with clients experiencing difficulties with self-esteem, assertiveness, childhood relational trauma, exploration of sexual orientation and gender, and challenges related to neurodivergence. I work frequently with individuals who identify with the LGBTQ+, gifted, ADHD, and ASD communities. Using an integrative approach tailored to the needs of each individual, I strive to help my clients understand and find practical ways to cope with their challenges. I primarily draw upon person-centred, psychodynamic, and solution-focused approaches to therapy in my work.
I work with adults who are experiencing difficulties in their relationships, sense of self, or emotional wellbeing, whether that shows up as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or a feeling that the same painful patterns keep repeating. I also welcome people working in high-pressure professional environments who are experiencing stress, burnout, or a growing sense that something needs to change. I welcome people from all backgrounds and work affirmatively with LGBTQ+ clients. I hold in mind how factors such as race, culture, class, disability, and religion shape our inner lives and mental health.
I work with adults who are experiencing difficulties in their relationships, sense of self, or emotional wellbeing, whether that shows up as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or a feeling that the same painful patterns keep repeating. I also welcome people working in high-pressure professional environments who are experiencing stress, burnout, or a growing sense that something needs to change. I welcome people from all backgrounds and work affirmatively with LGBTQ+ clients. I hold in mind how factors such as race, culture, class, disability, and religion shape our inner lives and mental health.
Do you feel frightened that your world might fall apart if you look at your sexuality or gender? Maybe you have thoughts going round and round in your head, and feel like you’ve lost track of perspective. Maybe you: don't like sex/like sex 'too much' /wrong kind of sex? Your gender doesn't fit with other people's idea of you. You may feel you are betraying your family, children or culture by expressing yourself. You may believe that what’s inside you is too shocking, or wrong or too much for the people around you. You may feel like there’s no-one you can talk to, which can be very isolating .
Do you feel frightened that your world might fall apart if you look at your sexuality or gender? Maybe you have thoughts going round and round in your head, and feel like you’ve lost track of perspective. Maybe you: don't like sex/like sex 'too much' /wrong kind of sex? Your gender doesn't fit with other people's idea of you. You may feel you are betraying your family, children or culture by expressing yourself. You may believe that what’s inside you is too shocking, or wrong or too much for the people around you. You may feel like there’s no-one you can talk to, which can be very isolating .
We provide decolonial, intersectional and anti-oppressive talking therapy to racially minoritised clients. We believe in our right to heal away from the white gaze and to have a safer space where we don't have to explain who we are or the different aspects of our culture or identity. We also believe that therapy should be a space where all identities are welcomed and understood including LGBTQ+ identities, gender diversity, neurodivergence and beyond.
We provide decolonial, intersectional and anti-oppressive talking therapy to racially minoritised clients. We believe in our right to heal away from the white gaze and to have a safer space where we don't have to explain who we are or the different aspects of our culture or identity. We also believe that therapy should be a space where all identities are welcomed and understood including LGBTQ+ identities, gender diversity, neurodivergence and beyond.
Have you ever felt like people just didn’t get you — maybe because you’re LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, or you’ve experienced CEN, bullying or abuse? It can be really isolating, and it makes sense if that’s left you feeling anxious, low, or just totally overwhelmed.
I often work with people living with the long-term impacts of neglect, domestic abuse, or trauma — including those still finding their way out. I am experienced in supporting survivors of many forms of abuse, including spiritual abuse, coercive control, complex trauma, and dissociation, including Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). I also welcome their allies for support.
Have you ever felt like people just didn’t get you — maybe because you’re LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, or you’ve experienced CEN, bullying or abuse? It can be really isolating, and it makes sense if that’s left you feeling anxious, low, or just totally overwhelmed.
I often work with people living with the long-term impacts of neglect, domestic abuse, or trauma — including those still finding their way out. I am experienced in supporting survivors of many forms of abuse, including spiritual abuse, coercive control, complex trauma, and dissociation, including Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). I also welcome their allies for support.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief or relationship difficulties, or perhaps you're struggling with the lasting impact of childhood experiences. Many of my clients are professionals, leaders, therapists and those working in demanding roles who spend their lives supporting others while neglecting their own wellbeing. Whatever has brought you here, I offer a safe, compassionate and non-judgemental space where we can work together to help you gain clarity, build resilience and create meaningful, lasting change.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief or relationship difficulties, or perhaps you're struggling with the lasting impact of childhood experiences. Many of my clients are professionals, leaders, therapists and those working in demanding roles who spend their lives supporting others while neglecting their own wellbeing. Whatever has brought you here, I offer a safe, compassionate and non-judgemental space where we can work together to help you gain clarity, build resilience and create meaningful, lasting change.
Do you keep finding yourself stuck in the same painful patterns? Whether it’s anger, anxiety & overwhelm, challenging relationships, or feeling lost, therapy offers a space to slow down, listen deeply and gently understand what lies beneath these patterns so you can begin the process of change.
My clients are thoughtful, sensitive people who feel stuck despite years of trying to understand themselves. They come to therapy to heal after a relationship breakdown, learn how to practice self-care and bring compassion to their anger, anxiety or grief. You don’t need to be in crisis to begin healing.
Do you keep finding yourself stuck in the same painful patterns? Whether it’s anger, anxiety & overwhelm, challenging relationships, or feeling lost, therapy offers a space to slow down, listen deeply and gently understand what lies beneath these patterns so you can begin the process of change.
My clients are thoughtful, sensitive people who feel stuck despite years of trying to understand themselves. They come to therapy to heal after a relationship breakdown, learn how to practice self-care and bring compassion to their anger, anxiety or grief. You don’t need to be in crisis to begin healing.
I offer Integrative Therapy. This allows me to provide a reflexive therapy space that is tailored to each individuals needs. I work relationaly and with a person centered, trauma informed approach and follow a queer feminist framework. I work with a wide range of people an also specialise in supporting people in the LGBTQ+ community. I work to provide a compassionate and safe space were you can be supported to process and better understand your emotions, experiences and relational patterns in a safe and non-judgemental environment.
I offer Integrative Therapy. This allows me to provide a reflexive therapy space that is tailored to each individuals needs. I work relationaly and with a person centered, trauma informed approach and follow a queer feminist framework. I work with a wide range of people an also specialise in supporting people in the LGBTQ+ community. I work to provide a compassionate and safe space were you can be supported to process and better understand your emotions, experiences and relational patterns in a safe and non-judgemental environment.
Nearby Lesbian Counsellors Searches for Rayleigh
- Basildon
- Benfleet
- Billericay
- Brentwood
- Chelmsford
- Great Baddow
- Hockley
- Ingatestone
- Leigh-on-Sea
- Rochford
- Southend-on-Sea
- Westcliff-on-Sea
Lesbian Counsellors
What is lesbian-affirming therapy?
Lesbian-affirming therapy is a type of mental health support that fully affirms and reflects a client's lesbian identity. It is rooted in acceptance and does not attempt to change or question an individual's sexual orientation. In this type of therapy, clients work with a therapist who understands the unique experiences of lesbian women. This support is especially important, as research shows that lesbian individuals face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges compared to heterosexual populations. Lesbian-affirming therapy acknowledges that lesbian individuals may encounter specific stressors—such as coming out challenges, family rejection, workplace discrimination, and minority stress—that require specialised understanding and intervention. Lesbian-affirming therapists often work with clients across all age groups, from adolescents navigating their emerging identity to adults and older individuals addressing life transitions and relationship concerns. Many therapists also provide couples therapy for lesbian partners, helping them navigate relationship dynamics, communication challenges, or external stressors that may impact their relationship. It is important to note that therapists provide talk therapy and counseling services but do not prescribe medication—if medication is needed for conditions like depression or anxiety, they will coordinate care with a psychiatrist or primary care physician who can provide psychiatric medication management alongside therapeutic support.
Why should I see a lesbian therapist?
Some clients prefer to work with lesbian therapists who may bring personal lived experience to the therapeutic relationship. Choosing to work with a lesbian therapist can offer a deeper sense of connection, comfort, and shared understanding. A therapist who identifies as lesbian may require clients to give less background explanation—whether it’s about navigating romantic relationships, feeling unseen in certain spaces, or processing the impact of past relationship challenges. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. Additionally, many lesbian-affirming therapists can connect clients to other providers or community-based resources—such as bisexual support groups or LGBTQ+ organisations—that offer additional affirming spaces for connection.
How do I find a lesbian therapist?
The Psychology Today online directory is a helpful tool for finding lesbian-affirming therapists. You can use search filters to identify therapists who specialise in LGBTQ+ care and work specifically with bisexual clients. You can also filter by clinical specialties, therapeutic approaches, accepted insurance, session costs, and languages spoken to find the right fit. Look for profiles where therapists explicitly mention working with lesbian clients, or where they describe their approach as identity-affirming, inclusive, or trauma-informed. Many providers will also list their own identities, which may help you find someone with shared lived experience if that is important to you. You can also look for credentials or continuing education in areas such as LGBTQ+ mental health, trauma-informed care, and intersectionality.