LGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling in Stoke-on-Trent

Photo of Daniel Knowles, Psychotherapist, COSRT Reg.
Daniel Knowles
Psychotherapist, COSRT Reg.
I specialise in sexual concerns, relationships counselling and identity-focused work, with a particular focus on LGBTQ+ clients, neurodivergent individuals, and those in polyamorous, ENM or kink-positive relationships and communities.
I work with a wide range of concerns: identity exploration, sexual anxiety, low or mismatched desire, vaginismus, unreliable erections, sexual shame, intimacy difficulties, & the impact of trauma on sexuality and relationships. I also work extensively with those navigating non-monogamous or ENM relationships, and with clients from kink and BDSM communities.
I specialise in sexual concerns, relationships counselling and identity-focused work, with a particular focus on LGBTQ+ clients, neurodivergent individuals, and those in polyamorous, ENM or kink-positive relationships and communities.
I work with a wide range of concerns: identity exploration, sexual anxiety, low or mismatched desire, vaginismus, unreliable erections, sexual shame, intimacy difficulties, & the impact of trauma on sexuality and relationships. I also work extensively with those navigating non-monogamous or ENM relationships, and with clients from kink and BDSM communities.
01782 983826 View 01782 983826
Photo of Ronan Carolan - The MindWell Clinic, Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
The MindWell Clinic
Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
anxiety & depression, confidence & self-esteem Issues, work-based stress & burnout as well as sleep problems, trauma, adopting healthier lifestyles and LGBT issues.
I combine hypnotherapy with psychotherapeutic techniques to first of all help my clients feel a greater sense of calmness and relaxation. Using a range of psychotherapeutic techniques, we together explore some of the underlying thinking patterns, feelings, past experiences and beliefs that may help explain why you are struggling in an aspect of your life.
anxiety & depression, confidence & self-esteem Issues, work-based stress & burnout as well as sleep problems, trauma, adopting healthier lifestyles and LGBT issues.
I combine hypnotherapy with psychotherapeutic techniques to first of all help my clients feel a greater sense of calmness and relaxation. Using a range of psychotherapeutic techniques, we together explore some of the underlying thinking patterns, feelings, past experiences and beliefs that may help explain why you are struggling in an aspect of your life.
01625 926622 View 01625 926622
Photo of Hayley Ibbs, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Hayley Ibbs
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
People come to see me because a relationship is affecting how they feel every day. It might be happening now, have ended badly, or be from a part of your life you thought you had moved on from. You may feel hurt, guilty, angry, confused, trapped, heartbroken, or worn out. You may keep replaying what was said, what was not said, what happened, or why you were treated that way. I work with adults and couples trying to make sense of complicated relationships, including partners, family, friendships, breakups, affairs, betrayal, grief and abuse. My work goes deeper than tips for better communication. We look at your whole relationship
People come to see me because a relationship is affecting how they feel every day. It might be happening now, have ended badly, or be from a part of your life you thought you had moved on from. You may feel hurt, guilty, angry, confused, trapped, heartbroken, or worn out. You may keep replaying what was said, what was not said, what happened, or why you were treated that way. I work with adults and couples trying to make sense of complicated relationships, including partners, family, friendships, breakups, affairs, betrayal, grief and abuse. My work goes deeper than tips for better communication. We look at your whole relationship
01242 502869 View 01242 502869
Photo of Natalie Jane Brayford, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Natalie Jane Brayford
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Hi, I'm Natalie. I am a BACP registered Counsellor with a MSc in Counselling Psychology. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of strength and I am here to help. I am friendly and down to earth and offer a 20 minute free telephone consultation, we can have a chat and you can use this time to ask any questions, as I know how daunting counselling can be.
Hi, I'm Natalie. I am a BACP registered Counsellor with a MSc in Counselling Psychology. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of strength and I am here to help. I am friendly and down to earth and offer a 20 minute free telephone consultation, we can have a chat and you can use this time to ask any questions, as I know how daunting counselling can be.
01782 983158 View 01782 983158
Photo of Adam Hughes, Counsellor, MBACP
Adam Hughes
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
I have a vast amount of experience in working with Neurodiversity, LGBTQ+, Trauma, Addiction, Mental & physical Health problems, Loss, Low self-esteem, Domestic abuse, Relationship problems, Family related issues, Self-harm & suicide and more...
I have worked with Homeless individuals, families and young people, and have also worked with the elderly and in palliative care. I also have a keen interest in pet bereavement counselling. After experiencing the loss of my own pets, I found little support, which led me to further studying to offer support around pet loss. After all our pets are family too.
I have a vast amount of experience in working with Neurodiversity, LGBTQ+, Trauma, Addiction, Mental & physical Health problems, Loss, Low self-esteem, Domestic abuse, Relationship problems, Family related issues, Self-harm & suicide and more...
I have worked with Homeless individuals, families and young people, and have also worked with the elderly and in palliative care. I also have a keen interest in pet bereavement counselling. After experiencing the loss of my own pets, I found little support, which led me to further studying to offer support around pet loss. After all our pets are family too.
01270 433624 View 01270 433624
Photo of Gemma Louise Pattison, Counsellor, MBACP
Gemma Louise Pattison
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I'm Gemma and it's lovely to meet you! I am a Counsellor and Psychotherapist with many years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults across a variety of settings. Working with people from all walks of life has given me a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of every individual and the challenges they may face.
Hello, I'm Gemma and it's lovely to meet you! I am a Counsellor and Psychotherapist with many years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults across a variety of settings. Working with people from all walks of life has given me a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of every individual and the challenges they may face.
01782 493920 View 01782 493920
Photo of Joanne Jones - Jo Jones Counselling , Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Jo Jones Counselling
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Hi, I'm Jo. I am a Integrative counsellor offering a safe. confidential, respectful non judgemental space. I use a varied range of methods and I try to find the best fit for each individual client. I work with Children from 6 years, Teenagers, Women and Men. I also welcome the lgbtqa+ community. Everyone is welcome and will be treated with dignity and respect at all times. My space is an inclusive space. I am a qualified EMDR Therapist offering 60 minute sessions at £50
Hi, I'm Jo. I am a Integrative counsellor offering a safe. confidential, respectful non judgemental space. I use a varied range of methods and I try to find the best fit for each individual client. I work with Children from 6 years, Teenagers, Women and Men. I also welcome the lgbtqa+ community. Everyone is welcome and will be treated with dignity and respect at all times. My space is an inclusive space. I am a qualified EMDR Therapist offering 60 minute sessions at £50
01782 288393 View 01782 288393
Photo of Joanne Nicola Gregory - Parkes therapy Practice, Counsellor, MBACP
As a qualified Counsellor, I work in a Client centred manner, providing a solid foundation for therapy, building on trust and mutual respect, by providing a safe, warm confidential and non-judgemental environment in which to contemplate your emotional state, because quite simple sometimes life can be just too much. . I will endeavour to help support you on your journey of finding the right answers and building on your own natural resilience. I offer both short and long term therapy depending on your needs.
As a qualified Counsellor, I work in a Client centred manner, providing a solid foundation for therapy, building on trust and mutual respect, by providing a safe, warm confidential and non-judgemental environment in which to contemplate your emotional state, because quite simple sometimes life can be just too much. . I will endeavour to help support you on your journey of finding the right answers and building on your own natural resilience. I offer both short and long term therapy depending on your needs.
01477 412596 View 01477 412596
Photo of Steve John Barlow - Steve Barlow Counselling & Supervision Services, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
I am a BACP accredited, fully insured counsellor, supervisor and support group facilitator with over 20 years experience of working with clients both in an organisational setting and in private practice. I currently have availability Monday to Friday and sessions are now available online via secure video platforms. I am well-versed in providing both long and short-term counselling arrangements, covering many issues from addiction, bereavement and abuse to anxiety to relationship concerns and sexuality and gender.
I am a BACP accredited, fully insured counsellor, supervisor and support group facilitator with over 20 years experience of working with clients both in an organisational setting and in private practice. I currently have availability Monday to Friday and sessions are now available online via secure video platforms. I am well-versed in providing both long and short-term counselling arrangements, covering many issues from addiction, bereavement and abuse to anxiety to relationship concerns and sexuality and gender.
01763 291259 View 01763 291259
Photo of Lucy Fox, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Lucy Fox
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
My main experience encompasses romantic-relationships, disability and neurodivergence, LGBTQIA therapy, grief and issues affecting those aged 60 and over.
My training and experience span a range of areas and I am used to working with many different issues and life experiences. These include anxiety, depression, ADHD, disability, grief, relationship issues (romantic and non-romantic), low self-esteem, trauma, parental and family issues, and big life changes (i.e. divorce and retirement). Some clients get help with specific issues, others seek more general support. There is no right or wrong and you won't be limited in what you can talk about. Together we can help you manage difficulties and find ways to make things better.
My main experience encompasses romantic-relationships, disability and neurodivergence, LGBTQIA therapy, grief and issues affecting those aged 60 and over.
My training and experience span a range of areas and I am used to working with many different issues and life experiences. These include anxiety, depression, ADHD, disability, grief, relationship issues (romantic and non-romantic), low self-esteem, trauma, parental and family issues, and big life changes (i.e. divorce and retirement). Some clients get help with specific issues, others seek more general support. There is no right or wrong and you won't be limited in what you can talk about. Together we can help you manage difficulties and find ways to make things better.
01782 288161 View 01782 288161
Photo of Kay Glover - Kay Glover Counselling and Supervision, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
With over 20 years' experience as a counsellor, I can offer a calm, safe space for you to explore your feelings and begin to make changes toward the life you would like. If you feel anxious, depressed, are suffering from PTSD or feel suicidal, have general low mood or feel that the time is right to seek support please contact me for an initial chat. I work with a person-centred approach, integrating other ways of working to suit your needs. I offer a free consultation so that you can find out if you would like to begin your journey with me. Free parking and disabled access. Face to face, telephone or online appointments.
With over 20 years' experience as a counsellor, I can offer a calm, safe space for you to explore your feelings and begin to make changes toward the life you would like. If you feel anxious, depressed, are suffering from PTSD or feel suicidal, have general low mood or feel that the time is right to seek support please contact me for an initial chat. I work with a person-centred approach, integrating other ways of working to suit your needs. I offer a free consultation so that you can find out if you would like to begin your journey with me. Free parking and disabled access. Face to face, telephone or online appointments.
01782 493932 View 01782 493932
Photo of Jo Shenton - Jo Shenton Counselling and Supervision, Counsellor, MBACP
Welcome. Are you here because you are struggling with something in your life and need some help and support? Perhaps you are experiencing some symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, trauma or addiction? Or something else? Would you like someone to listen to you in a confidential, safe place, without judgement? Are you interested in improving your confidence and increasing your self-esteem? Life can really test us at times and we may be unable to find the answers within ourselves or indeed from our family and friends.
Welcome. Are you here because you are struggling with something in your life and need some help and support? Perhaps you are experiencing some symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, trauma or addiction? Or something else? Would you like someone to listen to you in a confidential, safe place, without judgement? Are you interested in improving your confidence and increasing your self-esteem? Life can really test us at times and we may be unable to find the answers within ourselves or indeed from our family and friends.
01782 983532 View 01782 983532
Photo of Carryn Williams, Counsellor, MBACP
Carryn Williams
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
Photo of Gemma Bradbury - Sherwin Psychological Therapies, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Sherwin Psychological Therapies
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
Hi, my name is Gemma and I have been a therapist for over 15 years. I have experience clients with a variety of mental health concerns. There are no issues that are too big or too small for therapy. I can work with you for a short period of time, or for more long term therapy, depending on your needs. I am empathic, supportive, responsive and dynamic. I have a strong history of helping both children and adults overcome their difficulties and achieve their life goals, whatever they may be. I have a specialist interest in womens health, anxiety, menopause, ASD, ADHD and managing chronic illness.
Hi, my name is Gemma and I have been a therapist for over 15 years. I have experience clients with a variety of mental health concerns. There are no issues that are too big or too small for therapy. I can work with you for a short period of time, or for more long term therapy, depending on your needs. I am empathic, supportive, responsive and dynamic. I have a strong history of helping both children and adults overcome their difficulties and achieve their life goals, whatever they may be. I have a specialist interest in womens health, anxiety, menopause, ASD, ADHD and managing chronic illness.
07723 490507 View 07723 490507
Photo of Kelly Louise Rowley - Kelly Rowley Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Kelly Rowley Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Life can you hit you hard! I know this from experience. The good news is, that there is always a way back, no matter how hopeless the situation might feel at the time. The fact that you are here right now shows that you have the inner strength and desire to move forward. That in itself is huge, and the first step towards discovering (or re-discovering) the person that you truly are. Maybe you are feeling stressed? or suffer from anxiety? Are you struggling with a past traumatic experience? or the loss of a loved one? You could be stuck in a rut and not know why? Whatever it may be, remember that it does not have to be permanent.
Life can you hit you hard! I know this from experience. The good news is, that there is always a way back, no matter how hopeless the situation might feel at the time. The fact that you are here right now shows that you have the inner strength and desire to move forward. That in itself is huge, and the first step towards discovering (or re-discovering) the person that you truly are. Maybe you are feeling stressed? or suffer from anxiety? Are you struggling with a past traumatic experience? or the loss of a loved one? You could be stuck in a rut and not know why? Whatever it may be, remember that it does not have to be permanent.
01785 334339 View 01785 334339
Photo of Linda Szekely, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Linda Szekely
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Serves Area
Hello. My name is Linda and I am a qualified supervisor and Psychotherapist. I understand how hard it is to reach out for help, but through support and guidance things can change. If you are struggling to come to terms with something, or feel stressed, anxious, or feel like you are facing a challenge that you need support with, then please do get in touch. I have over 10 years’ experience of working with children, teenagers, and adults, with a variety of difficulties.
Hello. My name is Linda and I am a qualified supervisor and Psychotherapist. I understand how hard it is to reach out for help, but through support and guidance things can change. If you are struggling to come to terms with something, or feel stressed, anxious, or feel like you are facing a challenge that you need support with, then please do get in touch. I have over 10 years’ experience of working with children, teenagers, and adults, with a variety of difficulties.
07588 737932 View 07588 737932
Photo of Diane Earl, Counsellor, MBACP
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
Photo of Nigel Cadman, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Nigel Cadman
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Serves Area
I work in a person-centred manner which means that I value building a positive relationship with clients; working to create a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. This means that I want you to feel able to talk and express yourself about anything that may be troubling you. We talk about whatever you chose, and you can do so without fear of judgement. This enables you to become more comfortable with things as you discuss your thoughts freely, giving you an opportunity to consider things from different perspectives and over time building your confidence to explore different options and possibilities that are open to you.
I work in a person-centred manner which means that I value building a positive relationship with clients; working to create a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. This means that I want you to feel able to talk and express yourself about anything that may be troubling you. We talk about whatever you chose, and you can do so without fear of judgement. This enables you to become more comfortable with things as you discuss your thoughts freely, giving you an opportunity to consider things from different perspectives and over time building your confidence to explore different options and possibilities that are open to you.
01270 433834 View 01270 433834
Photo of Sarah louise Jackson, Counsellor, BACP
Sarah louise Jackson
Counsellor, BACP
Serves Area
01270 696672 View 01270 696672

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tash Wild - Prism Therapy UK, Counsellor, MSc
Prism Therapy UK
Counsellor, MSc
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialise in working with: LGBTQIA+ adults, neurodivergent adults, eating disorders, supporters/families of above.
I often work with people who have tried therapy and got told they were self aware but didn't find it very useful. During sessions we may predominantly talk through things, or we may incorporate other forms of expression like art, poetry, or music to access and help to incorporate your emotional and logical self.
I specialise in working with: LGBTQIA+ adults, neurodivergent adults, eating disorders, supporters/families of above.
I often work with people who have tried therapy and got told they were self aware but didn't find it very useful. During sessions we may predominantly talk through things, or we may incorporate other forms of expression like art, poetry, or music to access and help to incorporate your emotional and logical self.
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See more therapy options for Stoke-on-Trent

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.