LGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling in Sheffield

Lisa Howarth Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
Ian Baker
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
My name's Ian ,working in the field of sexual addiction and compulsivity and psychosexual therapy for 15+years. My work also includes ;relational work, presenting on topics surrounding porn use, depression, boredom etc as well as porn induced sexual difficulties. I also supervise therapists in these specialist fields of work. There is never a one size fits all approach, always helping each individual/couple with how to overcome & recover from what is being presented. I love this job and the niches I work within and take professional pride to stay updated with advances in research and training to ensure i am able to help
My name's Ian ,working in the field of sexual addiction and compulsivity and psychosexual therapy for 15+years. My work also includes ;relational work, presenting on topics surrounding porn use, depression, boredom etc as well as porn induced sexual difficulties. I also supervise therapists in these specialist fields of work. There is never a one size fits all approach, always helping each individual/couple with how to overcome & recover from what is being presented. I love this job and the niches I work within and take professional pride to stay updated with advances in research and training to ensure i am able to help
0114 697 6288 View 0114 697 6288
Bod Cantwell
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
I work with a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties, including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, ADHD, relationship difficulties and many other presentations. I draw on a range of evidence-based therapies, including Counselling, CBT, EMDR, Schema Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), DBT and Couples Therapy. Rather than asking, "Which therapy do you need?", I ask, "What does this person need?" Understanding you, your experiences and your goals comes first. The therapy is then tailored around you, not the other way around.
I work with a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties, including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, ADHD, relationship difficulties and many other presentations. I draw on a range of evidence-based therapies, including Counselling, CBT, EMDR, Schema Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), DBT and Couples Therapy. Rather than asking, "Which therapy do you need?", I ask, "What does this person need?" Understanding you, your experiences and your goals comes first. The therapy is then tailored around you, not the other way around.
0114 697 2827 View 0114 697 2827
Adam Watling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
Finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially when you're unsure of what you need. I believe that the key to successful therapy lies in the therapeutic relationship. I strive to be genuine and warm and build a trusting and meaningful therapeutic relationship with my clients. I am a Polyvagal informed therapist - when working with trauma, anxiety or depression, we can identify how your nervous system is responding. We can work to process and heal through a combination of therapeutic interventions, mindfulness and recognition of your physiological and biological responses.
Finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially when you're unsure of what you need. I believe that the key to successful therapy lies in the therapeutic relationship. I strive to be genuine and warm and build a trusting and meaningful therapeutic relationship with my clients. I am a Polyvagal informed therapist - when working with trauma, anxiety or depression, we can identify how your nervous system is responding. We can work to process and heal through a combination of therapeutic interventions, mindfulness and recognition of your physiological and biological responses.
01889 227323 View 01889 227323
Ben Hughes
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Online Only
I work with young people/adults who are experiencing emotional and psychological difficulties that are impacting their wellbeing. This often includes anxiety, low mood, stress, self-esteem challenges, relationship difficulties, and the impacts of changes and traumatic life events. My clients are often feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward, and are looking for a clearer understanding of themselves alongside practical ways to feel better and function more effectively in daily life. My aim is to provide a thoughtful, grounded therapeutic space where we can build insight, resilience and lasting changes at your pace.
I work with young people/adults who are experiencing emotional and psychological difficulties that are impacting their wellbeing. This often includes anxiety, low mood, stress, self-esteem challenges, relationship difficulties, and the impacts of changes and traumatic life events. My clients are often feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward, and are looking for a clearer understanding of themselves alongside practical ways to feel better and function more effectively in daily life. My aim is to provide a thoughtful, grounded therapeutic space where we can build insight, resilience and lasting changes at your pace.
0121 809 5559 View 0121 809 5559
Ben Roper Psychotherapy
Counsellor, BACP
Online Only
On the outside, you may look as though you are coping well: capable, thoughtful, and perhaps even successful in the eyes of others. But inside, things may feel more tender or uncertain. You might find yourself doubting who you are, second-guessing your choices, or trying hard to be good, perfect, or liked. Perhaps you often feel you have to earn your place, or carry a quiet sense of rejection that never fully goes away. Beneath these feelings, there may be something deeper: shame. Even if that word does not quite fit for you, you may recognise what it feels like to not feel good enough, or to feel disconnected from others.
On the outside, you may look as though you are coping well: capable, thoughtful, and perhaps even successful in the eyes of others. But inside, things may feel more tender or uncertain. You might find yourself doubting who you are, second-guessing your choices, or trying hard to be good, perfect, or liked. Perhaps you often feel you have to earn your place, or carry a quiet sense of rejection that never fully goes away. Beneath these feelings, there may be something deeper: shame. Even if that word does not quite fit for you, you may recognise what it feels like to not feel good enough, or to feel disconnected from others.
01623 701290 View 01623 701290
Connor Wallace
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
I work with adults and have experience working with a wide range of issues including stress, depression, anxiety, life difficulties, low self-esteem, chronic illness and LGBTQ+ issues.
I’m a qualified Humanistic Counsellor, and my approach is based on the belief that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing. I offer a safe, empathetic and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings and challenges at your own pace. I offer open-ended therapy, for as long as you need.
I work with adults and have experience working with a wide range of issues including stress, depression, anxiety, life difficulties, low self-esteem, chronic illness and LGBTQ+ issues.
I’m a qualified Humanistic Counsellor, and my approach is based on the belief that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing. I offer a safe, empathetic and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings and challenges at your own pace. I offer open-ended therapy, for as long as you need.
01204 929700 View 01204 929700
Keyong Ma
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
My clients are often thoughtful people who have spent years coping rather than understanding. They may be struggling with anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, ADHD, autism, or feeling stuck in patterns they cannot fully explain. Many arrive feeling overwhelmed, self critical, or disconnected from themselves. Together, we make sense of the experiences, relationships, and coping strategies that have shaped their lives, helping them develop greater clarity, self compassion, and confidence to move forward in a way that feels authentic and sustainable.
My clients are often thoughtful people who have spent years coping rather than understanding. They may be struggling with anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, ADHD, autism, or feeling stuck in patterns they cannot fully explain. Many arrive feeling overwhelmed, self critical, or disconnected from themselves. Together, we make sense of the experiences, relationships, and coping strategies that have shaped their lives, helping them develop greater clarity, self compassion, and confidence to move forward in a way that feels authentic and sustainable.
020 4538 4999 View 020 4538 4999
Ash Beachey
Counsellor, MBACP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in men's issues, identity and LGBTQ+ affirmative counselling.
Exploring the complex parts of our own experiences can feel overwhelming, but it's also a powerful step toward understanding and processing. In our work together, we'll take the time to gently uncover the roots of pain, allowing space for insight and compassion. If this sounds like a route you would like to take, please feel free to get in touch.
I specialise in men's issues, identity and LGBTQ+ affirmative counselling.
Exploring the complex parts of our own experiences can feel overwhelming, but it's also a powerful step toward understanding and processing. In our work together, we'll take the time to gently uncover the roots of pain, allowing space for insight and compassion. If this sounds like a route you would like to take, please feel free to get in touch.
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Dr Dane Duncan
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
3 Endorsed
Online Only
For Relationships, I blend System Theory with EFT/NVC/The Gottmans Approach with a twist of Queer Theory.
I make 3 promises to my clients: 1) They will be seen in the context of their lives... the problem is the problem, the person is the person. 2) We will use the words, terms and language that feel right by you. 3) We will figure out your values as a means to know how to go forward, like a ship changing course in a storm.
For Relationships, I blend System Theory with EFT/NVC/The Gottmans Approach with a twist of Queer Theory.
I make 3 promises to my clients: 1) They will be seen in the context of their lives... the problem is the problem, the person is the person. 2) We will use the words, terms and language that feel right by you. 3) We will figure out your values as a means to know how to go forward, like a ship changing course in a storm.
020 3984 7939 View 020 3984 7939
Jonny Sibbring
Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
Online Only
” I specialise in supporting LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent professionals who are juggling too much and feeling too little.
My style? Calm, collaborative, and gently challenging. I won’t sit in silence and nod. I’ll ask questions, offer thoughts, and help you connect with the emotions that are quietly running the show. You don’t need to have the right words. You just need to show up. I’ll meet you there.
” I specialise in supporting LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent professionals who are juggling too much and feeling too little.
My style? Calm, collaborative, and gently challenging. I won’t sit in silence and nod. I’ll ask questions, offer thoughts, and help you connect with the emotions that are quietly running the show. You don’t need to have the right words. You just need to show up. I’ll meet you there.
01700 800137 View 01700 800137
Matthew Dunn
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
People come to therapy for many reasons. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, stressed, struggling in a relationship, facing a crisis, or simply looking for a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings. I believe many emotional difficulties develop within relationships, and healing happens through relationships too. My approach is relational, collaborative and engaged. Rather than acting as a quiet observer, I will be actively involved as a co-researcher in the shared project of "what is wrong, and how do we resolve it?" I won’t tell you what to do, but I will support you in finding your own path towards change.
People come to therapy for many reasons. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, stressed, struggling in a relationship, facing a crisis, or simply looking for a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings. I believe many emotional difficulties develop within relationships, and healing happens through relationships too. My approach is relational, collaborative and engaged. Rather than acting as a quiet observer, I will be actively involved as a co-researcher in the shared project of "what is wrong, and how do we resolve it?" I won’t tell you what to do, but I will support you in finding your own path towards change.
0114 303 1141 View 0114 303 1141
Jen Tomkinson
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
I have a particular passion for working with queer, trans, non-binary and polyamorous clients, and bring nearly a decade of genuine experience and understanding to those conversations.
I'm a person-centred therapist, so I start from the belief that you are inherently good and have the capacity to grow. I work alongside you, helping you make sense of what's happening, understand what's getting in the way, and find your own way forward. Sessions are warm and collaborative. They’re a space to bring whatever matters most to you.
I have a particular passion for working with queer, trans, non-binary and polyamorous clients, and bring nearly a decade of genuine experience and understanding to those conversations.
I'm a person-centred therapist, so I start from the belief that you are inherently good and have the capacity to grow. I work alongside you, helping you make sense of what's happening, understand what's getting in the way, and find your own way forward. Sessions are warm and collaborative. They’re a space to bring whatever matters most to you.
0114 697 4678 View 0114 697 4678
Grace Seward
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Online Only
You may have reached a point where old wounds, anxiety, relationship difficulties, burnout, loss, or feeling stuck or depressed are significantly affecting your life. Whatever has brought you here, I offer a space where you'll be met with compassion, curiosity, equality, and without judgement. With over 20 years' clinical experience working with adults and children across a variety of settings, and training in multiple modalities, I work in a trauma-informed, humanistic, and relational way, tailoring therapy to your unique needs rather than expecting you to fit a particular model.
You may have reached a point where old wounds, anxiety, relationship difficulties, burnout, loss, or feeling stuck or depressed are significantly affecting your life. Whatever has brought you here, I offer a space where you'll be met with compassion, curiosity, equality, and without judgement. With over 20 years' clinical experience working with adults and children across a variety of settings, and training in multiple modalities, I work in a trauma-informed, humanistic, and relational way, tailoring therapy to your unique needs rather than expecting you to fit a particular model.
0114 697 3137 View 0114 697 3137
Life Notes Practice
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Welcome. I'm Jurga and I am glad you found your way here. Life Notes is a clinical psychology practice where I offer EMDR, specialist assessment, and individual psychological therapy for adults in Sheffield and online. This is an inclusive space. I welcome and celebrate diversity in all its forms. Whatever your background, identity, or life experience, you are welcome here. My approach draws on a range of evidence-based methods, shaped by my formal training in Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy and EMDR, but guided above all by the person in front of me, and their story.
Welcome. I'm Jurga and I am glad you found your way here. Life Notes is a clinical psychology practice where I offer EMDR, specialist assessment, and individual psychological therapy for adults in Sheffield and online. This is an inclusive space. I welcome and celebrate diversity in all its forms. Whatever your background, identity, or life experience, you are welcome here. My approach draws on a range of evidence-based methods, shaped by my formal training in Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy and EMDR, but guided above all by the person in front of me, and their story.
0114 697 5611 View 0114 697 5611
Abbie O'Connor
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
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?
Counselling with me can help you find ways to recover so you feel less isolated, anxious and ashamed, and feel that your concerns are understood by someone who understands. I have experience working with an LGBT+ charity and with have worked for over 25 years with survivors of abuse. I also have experience and understanding of neurodivergence.
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?
Counselling with me can help you find ways to recover so you feel less isolated, anxious and ashamed, and feel that your concerns are understood by someone who understands. I have experience working with an LGBT+ charity and with have worked for over 25 years with survivors of abuse. I also have experience and understanding of neurodivergence.
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Dr Jenny Porritt (ClearMind Horizons)
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Neuro-affirming, therapeutic adult ADHD assessments & post-diagnostic support in Sheffield. Are you exhausted from masking your struggles or trapped in cycles of procrastination or overwhelm? Perhaps you've made it to adulthood without ever feeling truly understood. If you suspect you might have ADHD, you are likely looking for deeper insights rather than just another symptom quiz. Together, we can explore how your unique brain works and map out your individual patterns. I offer unrushed, comprehensive assessments in a calm setting, providing a space for validation, self-understanding, and clear answers.
Neuro-affirming, therapeutic adult ADHD assessments & post-diagnostic support in Sheffield. Are you exhausted from masking your struggles or trapped in cycles of procrastination or overwhelm? Perhaps you've made it to adulthood without ever feeling truly understood. If you suspect you might have ADHD, you are likely looking for deeper insights rather than just another symptom quiz. Together, we can explore how your unique brain works and map out your individual patterns. I offer unrushed, comprehensive assessments in a calm setting, providing a space for validation, self-understanding, and clear answers.
01724 700939 View 01724 700939
Creative Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Do you struggle with issues such as anger, anxiety, depression, self esteem, self harm, or relationship issues? Are you feeling stuck in your life and find it difficult to take a step forward? Have you experienced trauma such as bullying, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or bereavement, and would like to see how this may be impacting on your life and relationships today? Maybe you tried talking therapies before but seem to be getting nowhere. Creative counselling has the potential to heal you on a much deeper level, leading to long lasting change. Feelings can be accessed, and healed through the power of metaphor and symbols.
Do you struggle with issues such as anger, anxiety, depression, self esteem, self harm, or relationship issues? Are you feeling stuck in your life and find it difficult to take a step forward? Have you experienced trauma such as bullying, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or bereavement, and would like to see how this may be impacting on your life and relationships today? Maybe you tried talking therapies before but seem to be getting nowhere. Creative counselling has the potential to heal you on a much deeper level, leading to long lasting change. Feelings can be accessed, and healed through the power of metaphor and symbols.
0114 697 7607 View 0114 697 7607
Karen Burch
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Waitlist for new clients
Im an Accredited Psychotherapist, specialising in trauma. I have experience privately, charity sector, and NHS. I work integratively, drawing on Somatic Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, EMDR, ACT, EFT, CBT, Humanistic approaches, helping individuals who have been exposed to traumatic events. I implement Mindfulness approaches. Offering highly effective treatments designed to ease distress, and implement lasting changes. Seeking support is a major life step. I commit to providing safe, professional treatment plans to sensitively support and empower you, deepen your self-understanding and create positive changes for a life you truly value
Im an Accredited Psychotherapist, specialising in trauma. I have experience privately, charity sector, and NHS. I work integratively, drawing on Somatic Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, EMDR, ACT, EFT, CBT, Humanistic approaches, helping individuals who have been exposed to traumatic events. I implement Mindfulness approaches. Offering highly effective treatments designed to ease distress, and implement lasting changes. Seeking support is a major life step. I commit to providing safe, professional treatment plans to sensitively support and empower you, deepen your self-understanding and create positive changes for a life you truly value
0114 553 1202 View 0114 553 1202
Clara Peiro-Timoner
Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
I believe that every person has the inner wisdom and potential to create a fulfilling life for themselves. However, at some point, most of us will find that we need external perspective and a space to explore issues that might make us feel stuck or hopeless. To me, counselling is a collaborative and creative relational process, and my role within it is to help people find their own personal power and joy, no matter their circumstances. I'm an energetic practitioner who will laugh and get excited with you, but also respect your rhythm and create space for grief, pain and stuckness, for as long as it's needed.
I believe that every person has the inner wisdom and potential to create a fulfilling life for themselves. However, at some point, most of us will find that we need external perspective and a space to explore issues that might make us feel stuck or hopeless. To me, counselling is a collaborative and creative relational process, and my role within it is to help people find their own personal power and joy, no matter their circumstances. I'm an energetic practitioner who will laugh and get excited with you, but also respect your rhythm and create space for grief, pain and stuckness, for as long as it's needed.
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See more therapy options for Sheffield

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.