LGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling in Runcorn

Photo of Shaunagh Parkes, Counsellor, MBACP
Shaunagh Parkes
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I have the most experience working with anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss and LGBTQ+ issues.
As an Integrative Therapist I work within a number of different modalities, such as person centred, CBT, psychodynamic, solution focused, family systems and transactional analysis theories. My counselling style is collaborative, warm and compassionate.
I have the most experience working with anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss and LGBTQ+ issues.
As an Integrative Therapist I work within a number of different modalities, such as person centred, CBT, psychodynamic, solution focused, family systems and transactional analysis theories. My counselling style is collaborative, warm and compassionate.
0151 453 0034 View 0151 453 0034
Photo of Joanna Lum Wai - Clarity Through Reflection , Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Clarity Through Reflection
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Runcorn WA7
Susan is an Integrative Counsellor and Joanna is a psychodynamic therapist which means they can use several means/modes of therapy that they are trained in, to support you to the maximum in achieving your goals. Supporting growth is their passion in life. Both offer face to face as well as online therapy. Therapy with Susan or Joanna will increase your resilience and provide you with techniques that will boost confidence in yourself in managing the challenge you face in your journey through life. When working with couples - Joanna provides techniques to maximise effective communication and increase intimacy.
Susan is an Integrative Counsellor and Joanna is a psychodynamic therapist which means they can use several means/modes of therapy that they are trained in, to support you to the maximum in achieving your goals. Supporting growth is their passion in life. Both offer face to face as well as online therapy. Therapy with Susan or Joanna will increase your resilience and provide you with techniques that will boost confidence in yourself in managing the challenge you face in your journey through life. When working with couples - Joanna provides techniques to maximise effective communication and increase intimacy.
01928 243199 View 01928 243199
Photo of David Traynor - Finding you therapy, Counsellor, MBACP
Finding you therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Runcorn WA7
Do you feel like you're constantly having to adapt and please others, to feel ‘good enough’? Do you feel that if you were to show your honest and real self, you won’t be accepted or loved. This can be a lonely and desperate place to be, that will leave you feeling empty and exhausted all at once. Accepting who you are is an important inner journey that we will take together in our counselling sessions. I will support you in exploring many aspects of both you and your life so far, including your experiences, your family of origin, your personality type, your desires, your expectations, your passions and your fears.
Do you feel like you're constantly having to adapt and please others, to feel ‘good enough’? Do you feel that if you were to show your honest and real self, you won’t be accepted or loved. This can be a lonely and desperate place to be, that will leave you feeling empty and exhausted all at once. Accepting who you are is an important inner journey that we will take together in our counselling sessions. I will support you in exploring many aspects of both you and your life so far, including your experiences, your family of origin, your personality type, your desires, your expectations, your passions and your fears.
01928 245598 View 01928 245598
Photo of Suzie Li, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Suzie Li
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Online Only
Many of the people I work with appear to be coping well on the outside but feel overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted, or stuck on the inside. They may be navigating relationship difficulties, grief, trauma, low self-esteem, life transitions, workplace stress, burnout, or questions about identity and purpose. We will create a safe, supportive space to understand what is happening beneath the surface, make sense of difficult emotions, and develop the confidence, resilience, and self-awareness needed to move forward in ways that feel right for them.
Many of the people I work with appear to be coping well on the outside but feel overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted, or stuck on the inside. They may be navigating relationship difficulties, grief, trauma, low self-esteem, life transitions, workplace stress, burnout, or questions about identity and purpose. We will create a safe, supportive space to understand what is happening beneath the surface, make sense of difficult emotions, and develop the confidence, resilience, and self-awareness needed to move forward in ways that feel right for them.
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Photo of Claudia Popescu, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Claudia Popescu
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Runcorn WA7
I work with individuals who would like space to reflect on their experiences, including trauma, loss, addiction, and other life challenges. Some come with a clear focus; others are less certain but feel that something would benefit from careful attention. Therapy can offer a steady, confidential relationship in which experiences can be explored thoughtfully, patterns understood more clearly, and meaning developed over time.
I work with individuals who would like space to reflect on their experiences, including trauma, loss, addiction, and other life challenges. Some come with a clear focus; others are less certain but feel that something would benefit from careful attention. Therapy can offer a steady, confidential relationship in which experiences can be explored thoughtfully, patterns understood more clearly, and meaning developed over time.
01925 239358 View 01925 239358
Photo of Carolyn Heffey - CP Counselling & Wellbeing Therapies- Supervisor , Counsellor, MBACP Accred
If your searching for a Counsellor then I understand you have reached a point in your life when you are ready to look at issues that are having an impact on you. Maybe causing you day to day difficulties and stopping you being able to live your life the way you want to. It can be a frightening process when you decide to reach out for help to look at issues that are causing emotional distress. Counselling is an approach to help you gain an understanding of the issues affecting you and work towards making positive changes in your life. You have taken the first step in seeking help simply by searching for a counsellor.
If your searching for a Counsellor then I understand you have reached a point in your life when you are ready to look at issues that are having an impact on you. Maybe causing you day to day difficulties and stopping you being able to live your life the way you want to. It can be a frightening process when you decide to reach out for help to look at issues that are causing emotional distress. Counselling is an approach to help you gain an understanding of the issues affecting you and work towards making positive changes in your life. You have taken the first step in seeking help simply by searching for a counsellor.
01928 244556 View 01928 244556
Photo of Katie Kearns - Cosy Chair Counselling, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Cosy Chair Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Runcorn WA7
A very warm welcome; I'm Katie, and I'm pleased you stopped by. You've possibly landed here feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or even a little lost with life right now. You're in the right place; I'm here to remind you that you are enough, you are worthy and you don't have to carry this heavy load alone. I'm here to offer you an accepting and supportive space, where you are the priority, with no expectations. I support people with issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues & suicidal thoughts. With my own lived experiences, my speciality and passion lie with those who are often the strength holding their loved ones up.
A very warm welcome; I'm Katie, and I'm pleased you stopped by. You've possibly landed here feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or even a little lost with life right now. You're in the right place; I'm here to remind you that you are enough, you are worthy and you don't have to carry this heavy load alone. I'm here to offer you an accepting and supportive space, where you are the priority, with no expectations. I support people with issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues & suicidal thoughts. With my own lived experiences, my speciality and passion lie with those who are often the strength holding their loved ones up.
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Photo of Liddy Carver - Dr Liddy Carver, Counsellor, PhD, MBACP Accred
Dr Liddy Carver
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
Online Counselling/Psychotherapy available via Zoom or Skype. Based in Warrington,Cheshire, I am a highly qualified therapist with a PhD in Counselling and MSc in Clinical Counselling. As an experienced BACP Registered and Accredited Person-Centred Counsellor and Psychotherapist, I provide a safe, professional and confidential talking therapy service for individuals, couples and families. My work is influenced by the Person-Centred Approach based on acceptance, empathy and genuineness. I am also a qualified practitioner in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Regulation) and a Clinical Supervisor trained at postgraduate level.
Online Counselling/Psychotherapy available via Zoom or Skype. Based in Warrington,Cheshire, I am a highly qualified therapist with a PhD in Counselling and MSc in Clinical Counselling. As an experienced BACP Registered and Accredited Person-Centred Counsellor and Psychotherapist, I provide a safe, professional and confidential talking therapy service for individuals, couples and families. My work is influenced by the Person-Centred Approach based on acceptance, empathy and genuineness. I am also a qualified practitioner in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Regulation) and a Clinical Supervisor trained at postgraduate level.
01925 938935 View 01925 938935
Photo of Gill Farley, Counsellor, BACP
Gill Farley
Counsellor, BACP
Serves Area
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. We feel exhausted, stressed, unable to switch off, unsure of our direction, our identity, or there’s something just not quite right. We seem to find time for others, but there’s no time for ourselves or we’re unsure where to turn. Does this sound familiar? This is where I can help. Hi, I'm Gill and I am a Counsellor in the Frodsham area. I can offer you acceptance and a safe, supportive confidential space; where together at a pace guided by you, we can start to make sense of your thoughts, feelings and emotions and get to the bottom of what's weighing you down. Helping you rediscover you.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. We feel exhausted, stressed, unable to switch off, unsure of our direction, our identity, or there’s something just not quite right. We seem to find time for others, but there’s no time for ourselves or we’re unsure where to turn. Does this sound familiar? This is where I can help. Hi, I'm Gill and I am a Counsellor in the Frodsham area. I can offer you acceptance and a safe, supportive confidential space; where together at a pace guided by you, we can start to make sense of your thoughts, feelings and emotions and get to the bottom of what's weighing you down. Helping you rediscover you.
01244 727223 View 01244 727223
Photo of Dale Conlon - UK Addiction Treatment Centres (UKAT)
UK Addiction Treatment Centres (UKAT)
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Why choose UKAT? 160 beds across the UK; treatment for all addictions, including process addictions, eating disorders, age 16-18 treatment and dual diagnosis. Ranging from luxurious en-suite rehabs with gyms and on-site medical units to affordable rehabs. Catering for people from all walks of life. All rehabs have 24/7 on-site addiction professionals, ensuring clients have the highest level of care offered in the country. UKAT always addresses the individual as a whole and will tailor treatment to the addiction and long-term recovery of the client. All UKAT centres have a family programme dedicated to helping family members.
Why choose UKAT? 160 beds across the UK; treatment for all addictions, including process addictions, eating disorders, age 16-18 treatment and dual diagnosis. Ranging from luxurious en-suite rehabs with gyms and on-site medical units to affordable rehabs. Catering for people from all walks of life. All rehabs have 24/7 on-site addiction professionals, ensuring clients have the highest level of care offered in the country. UKAT always addresses the individual as a whole and will tailor treatment to the addiction and long-term recovery of the client. All UKAT centres have a family programme dedicated to helping family members.
020 3872 2432 View 020 3872 2432
Photo of Jessica Hayes, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Jessica Hayes
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am here to help you in a way that is collaborative and gives you control. I am a CBT and EMDR Therapist with special interests in OCD and perinatal mental health, helping people all over the country who have had unsuccessful therapy before. I also work with self-esteem and many other difficulties. Think about what you are finding tough right now, because we will make this our priority; we can explore any thoughts and emotions contributing to your difficulties and focus on reaching the goals you have. We will work with openness and honesty, gaining insight and making lasting positive changes to your emotional wellbeing together.
I am here to help you in a way that is collaborative and gives you control. I am a CBT and EMDR Therapist with special interests in OCD and perinatal mental health, helping people all over the country who have had unsuccessful therapy before. I also work with self-esteem and many other difficulties. Think about what you are finding tough right now, because we will make this our priority; we can explore any thoughts and emotions contributing to your difficulties and focus on reaching the goals you have. We will work with openness and honesty, gaining insight and making lasting positive changes to your emotional wellbeing together.
01925 906930 View 01925 906930

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stephy Wilby - Therapy without barriers , Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Therapy without barriers
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Online Only
I am a counseller/pychotherapists that works with each client in a way that suits your needs. I work with different modalities.and I am also a clinical supervisor , offering a compassionate and personalised approach to therapy. I support people navigating the impact of life. I have experiance working with individuals from all walks of life, inlcuding working with people with different disabilites/neurodivergence. If you are ready to talk, the other parts will fall into place. You don't have to already know in advance what you want to work on. Telephone,livechat,email,video available.
I am a counseller/pychotherapists that works with each client in a way that suits your needs. I work with different modalities.and I am also a clinical supervisor , offering a compassionate and personalised approach to therapy. I support people navigating the impact of life. I have experiance working with individuals from all walks of life, inlcuding working with people with different disabilites/neurodivergence. If you are ready to talk, the other parts will fall into place. You don't have to already know in advance what you want to work on. Telephone,livechat,email,video available.
0161 524 9809 View 0161 524 9809
Photo of Sinead Murphy, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Sinead Murphy
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Do you find yourself being hard on yourself? Do you feel pressure to get things right? Does this leave you feeling low or doubting yourself? I have over 10 years’ experience in NHS therapy services. Over the years, I’ve seen how harsh we can be with ourselves, and how quickly we can slip into pushing ourselves down instead of offering the care we actually need. I often work with people experiencing: • Low mood and low self confidence • Trauma • Difficulties in relationships with themselves or others I provide a safe, affirming space for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
Do you find yourself being hard on yourself? Do you feel pressure to get things right? Does this leave you feeling low or doubting yourself? I have over 10 years’ experience in NHS therapy services. Over the years, I’ve seen how harsh we can be with ourselves, and how quickly we can slip into pushing ourselves down instead of offering the care we actually need. I often work with people experiencing: • Low mood and low self confidence • Trauma • Difficulties in relationships with themselves or others I provide a safe, affirming space for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
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Photo of Rebecca Fox, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Rebecca Fox
Psychotherapist, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My lived experience as a queer, non-monogamous person lends itself to a deeper understanding and empathy of the experiences of queer ( LGBTQ+) and non-monogamous (inc. polyamorous) people.
Hello, I’m Rebecca. I will be by your side as you explore whatever you wish to share, accepting all parts of you and bringing all parts of myself. As a person-centred therapist I offer a space that is non-judgemental, open and supportive. I offer you space that is just for you, to have the time to be heard and express yourself. I'm passionate about social justice and embed this in my practice, curious about how your identities and life experiences are felt and perceived. Here, you are welcome and accepted.
My lived experience as a queer, non-monogamous person lends itself to a deeper understanding and empathy of the experiences of queer ( LGBTQ+) and non-monogamous (inc. polyamorous) people.
Hello, I’m Rebecca. I will be by your side as you explore whatever you wish to share, accepting all parts of you and bringing all parts of myself. As a person-centred therapist I offer a space that is non-judgemental, open and supportive. I offer you space that is just for you, to have the time to be heard and express yourself. I'm passionate about social justice and embed this in my practice, curious about how your identities and life experiences are felt and perceived. Here, you are welcome and accepted.
0161 524 6947 View 0161 524 6947
Photo of Ioanna Matte, Psychotherapist, MSc, SNCPS Acc.
Ioanna Matte
Psychotherapist, MSc, SNCPS Acc.
Online Only
I also offer relationship therapy for queer/ LGBTQ+ couples and people in CNM and poly relationship configurations.
I specialise in trauma and its longer-term impact, including dissociation and relationship patterns, PTSD and cPTSD, trust issues, panic and anxiety attacks, self-harm, depression, narcissistic family systems, loss and grief, and dealing with chronic illness. My approach is collaborative, trauma and dissociation-informed, and queer and trans-affirmative.
I also offer relationship therapy for queer/ LGBTQ+ couples and people in CNM and poly relationship configurations.
I specialise in trauma and its longer-term impact, including dissociation and relationship patterns, PTSD and cPTSD, trust issues, panic and anxiety attacks, self-harm, depression, narcissistic family systems, loss and grief, and dealing with chronic illness. My approach is collaborative, trauma and dissociation-informed, and queer and trans-affirmative.
020 3835 5612 View 020 3835 5612
Photo of Ally Condron, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Ally Condron
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
I have special interest in Gender Identity, Sexuality, Relationships, and issues facing LGBTQIA+ individuals.
A relatable and compassionate Therapist, based in Manchester City Centre, working both in person and online. Perhaps your past experiences are having an impact on your day to day life, or you are feeling down and need support. I offer clients the time and space to explore themselves, past and present events. Whatever it is that you are going through I will do my best to help. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming to know where to start and I welcome clients to bring their full selves, in all their complexity, to sessions, without pressure to have to "be" a certain kind of way.
I have special interest in Gender Identity, Sexuality, Relationships, and issues facing LGBTQIA+ individuals.
A relatable and compassionate Therapist, based in Manchester City Centre, working both in person and online. Perhaps your past experiences are having an impact on your day to day life, or you are feeling down and need support. I offer clients the time and space to explore themselves, past and present events. Whatever it is that you are going through I will do my best to help. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming to know where to start and I welcome clients to bring their full selves, in all their complexity, to sessions, without pressure to have to "be" a certain kind of way.
01707 938735 View 01707 938735
Photo of Virginia Toole, Counsellor, MBACP
Virginia Toole
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
Are you navigating a period where life no longer feels familiar, after loss, separation, relocation, illness, or a major life transition? Perhaps you’ve been holding everything together for a long time, yet quietly feel unmoored, uncertain, or unlike yourself. You don’t have to face this period of change alone. I work with adults facing significant change who want a calm, thoughtful space to make sense of what has shifted. Many of the people I support are capable, reflective individuals who find themselves at an unexpected crossroads — grieving not only what has been lost, but questioning who they are now and how to move forward.
Are you navigating a period where life no longer feels familiar, after loss, separation, relocation, illness, or a major life transition? Perhaps you’ve been holding everything together for a long time, yet quietly feel unmoored, uncertain, or unlike yourself. You don’t have to face this period of change alone. I work with adults facing significant change who want a calm, thoughtful space to make sense of what has shifted. Many of the people I support are capable, reflective individuals who find themselves at an unexpected crossroads — grieving not only what has been lost, but questioning who they are now and how to move forward.
01254 781838 View 01254 781838
Photo of Nicola Dobson - Elephant in The Room Psychotherapy & Counselling, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Elephant in The Room Psychotherapy & Counselling
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
We all experience losses in life – not just when someone dies but when we lose anything that is important to us: our relationships, our dreams of having a family, our health, our home, our job, our independence, our pets, and our hopes or expectations. Often, we are able to grieve for those losses and adjust but sometimes we are left feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, angry, guilty, ashamed, withdrawn, or numb for many months or even years later. Adjusting to losses in life is not about ‘getting over’ them but about finding ways to live a life that includes them.
We all experience losses in life – not just when someone dies but when we lose anything that is important to us: our relationships, our dreams of having a family, our health, our home, our job, our independence, our pets, and our hopes or expectations. Often, we are able to grieve for those losses and adjust but sometimes we are left feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, angry, guilty, ashamed, withdrawn, or numb for many months or even years later. Adjusting to losses in life is not about ‘getting over’ them but about finding ways to live a life that includes them.
0161 524 7402 View 0161 524 7402
Photo of Jill Deacon, Counsellor, MBACP
Jill Deacon
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
As a member of the community, I provide a welcoming and supportive space for LGBTQ individuals, addressing issues related to gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
Speaking with someone for the first time about personal issues or trauma can feel really daunting. It is important to feel safe and not judged when talking about difficult things, and my aim is for us to develop a relationship where you can explore whatever it is that you need to. There is not an exhaustive list of the reasons for coming to counselling initially but one thing is sure and that is it begins with building trust and beginning to speak openly. Our sessions will be collaborative: I will facilitate, but you will lead the way. Even if you can't pin point why things feel difficult, you're not alone.
As a member of the community, I provide a welcoming and supportive space for LGBTQ individuals, addressing issues related to gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
Speaking with someone for the first time about personal issues or trauma can feel really daunting. It is important to feel safe and not judged when talking about difficult things, and my aim is for us to develop a relationship where you can explore whatever it is that you need to. There is not an exhaustive list of the reasons for coming to counselling initially but one thing is sure and that is it begins with building trust and beginning to speak openly. Our sessions will be collaborative: I will facilitate, but you will lead the way. Even if you can't pin point why things feel difficult, you're not alone.
01273 121297 View 01273 121297
Photo of Rae Yates, Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Rae Yates
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Queer Non-Binary / LGBTQIA+ Person-Centred Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor.
I am committed to providing an inclusive, welcoming, safe and confidential space where you can talk about the thoughts, feelings and experiences that you want to. The type of therapy I offer is called ‘Person Centred’. It is a non-pathologising, non-judgmental, non-directive approach to counselling. I am LGBTQIA+ and neurodiversity affirming.
I am a Queer Non-Binary / LGBTQIA+ Person-Centred Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor.
I am committed to providing an inclusive, welcoming, safe and confidential space where you can talk about the thoughts, feelings and experiences that you want to. The type of therapy I offer is called ‘Person Centred’. It is a non-pathologising, non-judgmental, non-directive approach to counselling. I am LGBTQIA+ and neurodiversity affirming.
020 3879 4147 View 020 3879 4147
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.