LGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling in Sandbach

Carryn Williams
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Sandbach CW11
Do you find yourself constantly putting everyone else first, and resenting it inside? Struggling with a phobia that's taking over your life? Exhausted by complicated family dynamics, or confidence that keeps letting you down? I work with people who feel like that. I help them to figure out what's going on for them, to feel more grounded, less stuck, and to feel more like themselves again (after we've figured out who that is, sometimes!) I aim to be warm as well as direct. I won't just let you talk endlessly - I'll challenge you. In turn, you can say whatever you need to, however you need to. I'm here for it.
Do you find yourself constantly putting everyone else first, and resenting it inside? Struggling with a phobia that's taking over your life? Exhausted by complicated family dynamics, or confidence that keeps letting you down? I work with people who feel like that. I help them to figure out what's going on for them, to feel more grounded, less stuck, and to feel more like themselves again (after we've figured out who that is, sometimes!) I aim to be warm as well as direct. I won't just let you talk endlessly - I'll challenge you. In turn, you can say whatever you need to, however you need to. I'm here for it.
01270 916689 View 01270 916689
Lavinia May
Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Sandbach CW11
Hi, I'm Lavinia, If you're feeling anxious, stuck in unhelpful patterns, or - as a couple - caught in the same arguments and disconnection, you're not alone. My approach is kind, collaborative, and practical: we'll understand what's driving the conflict and create small, doable steps toward reconnection and understanding. I work with individuals and couples, drawing on evidence-based tools without the jargon. Sessions feel like real conversations with structure: we set goals together, track what's helping, and adapt as we go.
Hi, I'm Lavinia, If you're feeling anxious, stuck in unhelpful patterns, or - as a couple - caught in the same arguments and disconnection, you're not alone. My approach is kind, collaborative, and practical: we'll understand what's driving the conflict and create small, doable steps toward reconnection and understanding. I work with individuals and couples, drawing on evidence-based tools without the jargon. Sessions feel like real conversations with structure: we set goals together, track what's helping, and adapt as we go.
01270 449727 View 01270 449727
Andrew Finch
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
I specialise in working alongside clients who identify as neurodivergent, and who are looking for support from a counsellor who understands how neurodiversity can mean unique challenges in managing mental health and in seeking help. I have experience working with clients with a range of challenges, including anxiety, low-mood, gender dysphoria, and others. I work in a client-centred way, meaning that our sessions will focus on your challenges, your needs, and your goals at all times. I will act as a guide and a partner in your journey, but you will always be in the driving seat.
I specialise in working alongside clients who identify as neurodivergent, and who are looking for support from a counsellor who understands how neurodiversity can mean unique challenges in managing mental health and in seeking help. I have experience working with clients with a range of challenges, including anxiety, low-mood, gender dysphoria, and others. I work in a client-centred way, meaning that our sessions will focus on your challenges, your needs, and your goals at all times. I will act as a guide and a partner in your journey, but you will always be in the driving seat.
01747 441033 View 01747 441033
Nicola Burgess
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Nicola, a qualified Person-Centred counsellor. Do you experience times when things just get too much and although you may have a good network of family, friends or colleagues you just need a safe space where you can go to talk, not be judged and know that whatever is spoken about is confidential. Whatever is troubling you may stem from your childhood, a relationship, a traumatic event or something else but whatever it is, this maybe preventing you from living your life to the full. The first step can be daunting, but together we can explore your thoughts, your feelings which will enable you to gain a greater self worth.
Hi, I'm Nicola, a qualified Person-Centred counsellor. Do you experience times when things just get too much and although you may have a good network of family, friends or colleagues you just need a safe space where you can go to talk, not be judged and know that whatever is spoken about is confidential. Whatever is troubling you may stem from your childhood, a relationship, a traumatic event or something else but whatever it is, this maybe preventing you from living your life to the full. The first step can be daunting, but together we can explore your thoughts, your feelings which will enable you to gain a greater self worth.
01270 906391 View 01270 906391
Patricia Yvonne Taylor
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Snr. Accred
Serves Area
My counselling model is Person-Centred. Many years experience enables me to offer effective individualised, psychological treatment. I treat most emotional disorders and provide a neutral ground My focus is to individuals heal, energise, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, understanding you and your issues to customise a treatment plan which meets your needs. I will be there for you every step of your journey. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
My counselling model is Person-Centred. Many years experience enables me to offer effective individualised, psychological treatment. I treat most emotional disorders and provide a neutral ground My focus is to individuals heal, energise, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, understanding you and your issues to customise a treatment plan which meets your needs. I will be there for you every step of your journey. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
07702 651156 View 07702 651156
Diane Earl
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
We all struggle to make sense of experiences at times, especially when our life is in transition or we have unwanted changes. Perhaps you are going through the menopause, have a new job, responsibilities or are retiring, bereaved or divorced? Change can shake our sense of who we are. Therapy with me will provide the space to think about what is important to you, what do you value and what is stopping you living the life you want? Uncertainty often brings stress and anxiety. I know how this impacts the body and mind. I can talk through calming strategies. I want you to discover your vitality and life force again .
We all struggle to make sense of experiences at times, especially when our life is in transition or we have unwanted changes. Perhaps you are going through the menopause, have a new job, responsibilities or are retiring, bereaved or divorced? Change can shake our sense of who we are. Therapy with me will provide the space to think about what is important to you, what do you value and what is stopping you living the life you want? Uncertainty often brings stress and anxiety. I know how this impacts the body and mind. I can talk through calming strategies. I want you to discover your vitality and life force again .
07480 540068 View 07480 540068
Sarah louise Jackson
Counsellor, BACP
Serves Area
01270 696672 View 01270 696672

More Therapists Nearby

Dr Cheryl J Taylor
Psychotherapist, PhD, BACP
Having worked in the NHS for over fifteen years; I specialise in Psychiatric care and Neurodiversity. As a Neurodivergent therapist, I have found from practice and my research, which evidences Neurodivergent Affirming Therapy; strong therapeutic alliance with my patients; there's reassurance, safety and a sense of belonging when working with someone who actually gets you! I have worked hard to ensure therapy caters to and adapts to our brains! Techniques such as eye contact, open questions, long silences, often made me and my patients want to run away, perpetuating a belief of hopelessness and helplessness.
Having worked in the NHS for over fifteen years; I specialise in Psychiatric care and Neurodiversity. As a Neurodivergent therapist, I have found from practice and my research, which evidences Neurodivergent Affirming Therapy; strong therapeutic alliance with my patients; there's reassurance, safety and a sense of belonging when working with someone who actually gets you! I have worked hard to ensure therapy caters to and adapts to our brains! Techniques such as eye contact, open questions, long silences, often made me and my patients want to run away, perpetuating a belief of hopelessness and helplessness.
01226 449328 x079222 View 01226 449328 x079222
Cecelia Bayliss-Conway
Psychotherapist, MA, SNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
I am passionate about working with neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities.
At the heart of my work is a compassionate, authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship. My work is trauma-informed, helping you understand how your experiences have shaped you, reconnect with your strengths, and move towards lasting, meaningful change.
I am passionate about working with neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities.
At the heart of my work is a compassionate, authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship. My work is trauma-informed, helping you understand how your experiences have shaped you, reconnect with your strengths, and move towards lasting, meaningful change.
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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
Joy Becker
Psychotherapist, BACP
1 Endorsed
With particular experience in LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergence & the Performing Arts, I offer a compassionate, sincere and confidential space for individuals and couples to work through their experiences.
My core approach is rooted in Transactional Analysis and Integrative Psychotherapy; humanistic and relational frameworks which look at how the past might be living in the 'here & now'. Together in therapy we will learn about you, and what you need to flourish in the world.
With particular experience in LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergence & the Performing Arts, I offer a compassionate, sincere and confidential space for individuals and couples to work through their experiences.
My core approach is rooted in Transactional Analysis and Integrative Psychotherapy; humanistic and relational frameworks which look at how the past might be living in the 'here & now'. Together in therapy we will learn about you, and what you need to flourish in the world.
0161 524 3788 View 0161 524 3788
Charlotte Haylock
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
I am a chartered counselling psychologist. Within my therapeutic practice, I aim to offer a space that is non-judgemental, compassionate and warm. You may be exploring gender or sexuality, navigating non-monogamous relationships, or making sense of life as an autistic person or someone with ADHD, or other neurodiversity. Many clients come to me after feeling misunderstood or having to explain their identity or relationship style elsewhere. I offer an affirming, non-judgemental space where your experiences are taken seriously and where we can explore what’s going on for you at your own pace.
I am a chartered counselling psychologist. Within my therapeutic practice, I aim to offer a space that is non-judgemental, compassionate and warm. You may be exploring gender or sexuality, navigating non-monogamous relationships, or making sense of life as an autistic person or someone with ADHD, or other neurodiversity. Many clients come to me after feeling misunderstood or having to explain their identity or relationship style elsewhere. I offer an affirming, non-judgemental space where your experiences are taken seriously and where we can explore what’s going on for you at your own pace.
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Lisa Howarth Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Together, we can make sense of how protective strategies and early experiences may shape your present. Do you find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with intimacy, conflict, or anxiety? Warm and down-to-earth, I'm a qualified counsellor and psychosexual & relational therapist, and have helped many clients make meaningful, lasting changes leading to a calmer, more fulfilling life. If you're experiencing life changes such as separation, menopause, difficulties in relationships, the impact of trauma, or sexual difficulties such as painful sex or low desire, I can help. I work with adults of all sexualities and relationship styles.
Together, we can make sense of how protective strategies and early experiences may shape your present. Do you find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with intimacy, conflict, or anxiety? Warm and down-to-earth, I'm a qualified counsellor and psychosexual & relational therapist, and have helped many clients make meaningful, lasting changes leading to a calmer, more fulfilling life. If you're experiencing life changes such as separation, menopause, difficulties in relationships, the impact of trauma, or sexual difficulties such as painful sex or low desire, I can help. I work with adults of all sexualities and relationship styles.
0161 524 5095 View 0161 524 5095
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
Ilia (Stavroula) DAOUSSI
Counsellor, MA, MUKCP
Serves Area
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community myself, I’m familiar with the struggles around sexuality and/or gender.
As an Integrative Transpersonal Counsellor, I join each client on a journey to find a place where past and present experiences meet. We mutually create an explorative space to allow for better self-understanding and healing, while also listening to what is soulfully shared through images, dreams and poetry. Find out more about me at soulfulcounselling.co.uk.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community myself, I’m familiar with the struggles around sexuality and/or gender.
As an Integrative Transpersonal Counsellor, I join each client on a journey to find a place where past and present experiences meet. We mutually create an explorative space to allow for better self-understanding and healing, while also listening to what is soulfully shared through images, dreams and poetry. Find out more about me at soulfulcounselling.co.uk.
01767 661125 View 01767 661125
Grace McNally
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
I specialise in working with young people or adults affected by: • Adverse childhood experiences • Relationship difficulties • Self-worth issues • Self-esteem issues • Anxiety • Depression • Suicidal thoughts • Self-harm • Body shame • PTSD • Trauma I provide inclusive support for clients within the LGBTQ+ community, alongside neurodivergent individuals.
Hi, I’m Grace and I’m glad you’re here. I offer open-ended video/telephone therapy at your pace, focusing on what matters most to you. Together we will explore your emotions and experiences. As a humanistic therapist my role is to facilitate a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, feel truly heard, and reconnect with your own sense of self. Whatever you’re navigating I’m here to support you with warmth, respect, and honesty. • Free 15-minute initial consultation • Confidential online video/telephone sessions for adults and children. • Specialised, experienced psychotherapy • Open-ended
I specialise in working with young people or adults affected by: • Adverse childhood experiences • Relationship difficulties • Self-worth issues • Self-esteem issues • Anxiety • Depression • Suicidal thoughts • Self-harm • Body shame • PTSD • Trauma I provide inclusive support for clients within the LGBTQ+ community, alongside neurodivergent individuals.
Hi, I’m Grace and I’m glad you’re here. I offer open-ended video/telephone therapy at your pace, focusing on what matters most to you. Together we will explore your emotions and experiences. As a humanistic therapist my role is to facilitate a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, feel truly heard, and reconnect with your own sense of self. Whatever you’re navigating I’m here to support you with warmth, respect, and honesty. • Free 15-minute initial consultation • Confidential online video/telephone sessions for adults and children. • Specialised, experienced psychotherapy • Open-ended
01506 539562 View 01506 539562
Charmini Glo
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Do your feelings overwhelm you? Is it hard to stay in control? Are you unkind to yourself? I understand how hard it is to ask for help. Untangling a lifetime of feelings and thoughts can be daunting, but with the right support you can identify those limiting patterns and change the beliefs, feelings, and responses holding you back from the life you want and the person you want to be. Choice comes from understanding yourself, then making the right changes. I understand how hard it can be to do that on your own. I will be with you on that journey, supporting and empowering you to move from self-awareness to real, lasting change
Do your feelings overwhelm you? Is it hard to stay in control? Are you unkind to yourself? I understand how hard it is to ask for help. Untangling a lifetime of feelings and thoughts can be daunting, but with the right support you can identify those limiting patterns and change the beliefs, feelings, and responses holding you back from the life you want and the person you want to be. Choice comes from understanding yourself, then making the right changes. I understand how hard it can be to do that on your own. I will be with you on that journey, supporting and empowering you to move from self-awareness to real, lasting change
0161 524 8377 View 0161 524 8377
Sally Campbell
Counsellor, MSc, MUKCP
4 Endorsed
You may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious or navigating a period of change. I am an experienced therapist with experience in both the third sector and private practice supporting clients with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship pressures and life transitions. I am deeply committed to inclusivity and embrace working with difference. I understand the importance of feeling seen and valued just as you are. Sessions are paced, relational and tailored for you. Whatever brings you here, you are welcome.
You may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious or navigating a period of change. I am an experienced therapist with experience in both the third sector and private practice supporting clients with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship pressures and life transitions. I am deeply committed to inclusivity and embrace working with difference. I understand the importance of feeling seen and valued just as you are. Sessions are paced, relational and tailored for you. Whatever brings you here, you are welcome.
01887 441989 View 01887 441989
Jules Haley
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
I’m an experienced psychotherapist/counsellor, psychosexual and LGBTQ+/ Queer relationship therapist working in person in Worthing and online (UK and Internationally).
I offer a genuinely accepting, empathic and safe space for us to explore your feelings, experiences, thoughts and memories. I will not tell you what to do but together at your pace we can explore your concerns.
I’m an experienced psychotherapist/counsellor, psychosexual and LGBTQ+/ Queer relationship therapist working in person in Worthing and online (UK and Internationally).
I offer a genuinely accepting, empathic and safe space for us to explore your feelings, experiences, thoughts and memories. I will not tell you what to do but together at your pace we can explore your concerns.
020 3960 5056 View 020 3960 5056
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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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.