LGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling in Stowmarket

Photo of William Clarke, Psychotherapist, MBACP
William Clarke
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
I came to counselling later in life, after running my own successful business in the hospitality and events industry. I have a lot of experience in dealing with different people and situations, and I understand the pressures and challenges of working in a demanding and competitive field. I have also faced my own struggles with complicated family issues growing up, identity and self worth. These experiences have shaped me as a person and as a therapist, and they help me to connect with a diverse range of clients.
I came to counselling later in life, after running my own successful business in the hospitality and events industry. I have a lot of experience in dealing with different people and situations, and I understand the pressures and challenges of working in a demanding and competitive field. I have also faced my own struggles with complicated family issues growing up, identity and self worth. These experiences have shaped me as a person and as a therapist, and they help me to connect with a diverse range of clients.
020 4538 4591 View 020 4538 4591
Photo of Sue Jayasuriya, Counsellor, MSc, MUKCP
Sue Jayasuriya
Counsellor, MSc, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Counselling will provide a safe and non-judgemental space that is separate from everyday life where you will be able to talk about your emotional difficulties to a trained professional enabling you to discover the roots of your worries. My integrative approach will enable us to discover together your current difficulties giving you back some control over your mental health.
Counselling will provide a safe and non-judgemental space that is separate from everyday life where you will be able to talk about your emotional difficulties to a trained professional enabling you to discover the roots of your worries. My integrative approach will enable us to discover together your current difficulties giving you back some control over your mental health.
01449 709833 View 01449 709833
Photo of Edward Silver Ba (Hons), Psychotherapist, MBACP
Edward Silver Ba (Hons)
Psychotherapist, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer a choice of In Person Psychotherapy & Outdoor Walk & Talk Counselling from my private practice in the rural setting of Gosbeck, near Ipswich, Suffolk, (IP6). Or Remote Online and Telephone Counselling. With over 15 years experience I am able to support the following; Childhood Abuse & Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Depression, Loss & Bereavement, Separation & Divorce, Affairs & Betrayal, Issues around Adoption, Infertility, Addiction(s), PTSD, , Stress, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Low Self Esteem, Long Term Illness, Dissociation, Bereavement, Sexual Identity, Spirituality
I offer a choice of In Person Psychotherapy & Outdoor Walk & Talk Counselling from my private practice in the rural setting of Gosbeck, near Ipswich, Suffolk, (IP6). Or Remote Online and Telephone Counselling. With over 15 years experience I am able to support the following; Childhood Abuse & Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Depression, Loss & Bereavement, Separation & Divorce, Affairs & Betrayal, Issues around Adoption, Infertility, Addiction(s), PTSD, , Stress, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Low Self Esteem, Long Term Illness, Dissociation, Bereavement, Sexual Identity, Spirituality
01283 248695 View 01283 248695
Photo of Patience Gwara - Patience Gwara - Cottage Garden Counselling, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Patience Gwara - Cottage Garden Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
As it is normal to experience emotional difficulties during life, counselling is one way of supporting you at such times. Some of the ways that couples therapy can work include, identifying toxic relationship patterns and helping couples to work on changing these, bringing a new perspective to issues and helping couples to understand each other's perspectives, finding new ways to resolve conflicts, building trust and improving communication. Most importantly, providing a safe space for both partners to work through their issues.
As it is normal to experience emotional difficulties during life, counselling is one way of supporting you at such times. Some of the ways that couples therapy can work include, identifying toxic relationship patterns and helping couples to work on changing these, bringing a new perspective to issues and helping couples to understand each other's perspectives, finding new ways to resolve conflicts, building trust and improving communication. Most importantly, providing a safe space for both partners to work through their issues.
01473 794218 View 01473 794218
Photo of Leigh Weir - Weir Wellbeing, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Weir Wellbeing
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Leigh, and I believe people usually come to therapy not because something is “wrong” with them, but because life has become overwhelming or difficult to carry alone. Many of the people I work with struggle with anxiety, overthinking, anger, low self-esteem, or relationship difficulties and feel stuck in patterns they don’t fully understand. My approach is warm, collaborative, and non-judgemental. Together we can explore what’s going on beneath the surface, develop greater self-understanding, and begin finding ways forward that feel more manageable and empowering.
Hi, I'm Leigh, and I believe people usually come to therapy not because something is “wrong” with them, but because life has become overwhelming or difficult to carry alone. Many of the people I work with struggle with anxiety, overthinking, anger, low self-esteem, or relationship difficulties and feel stuck in patterns they don’t fully understand. My approach is warm, collaborative, and non-judgemental. Together we can explore what’s going on beneath the surface, develop greater self-understanding, and begin finding ways forward that feel more manageable and empowering.
020 4538 5098 View 020 4538 5098

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jacqueline Jones - Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy , Psychotherapist, MA, COSRT General
Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, COSRT General
3 Endorsed
Sex and relationship difficulties can feel lonely, painful and hard to name. I am a Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist, often called a sex therapist, supporting couples, throuples and individuals online and in Essex. I work with low desire, mismatched desire, painful sex, erection or ejaculation difficulties, orgasm concerns, porn-related worries, affairs, secrecy, shame and relationship crisis. My approach is warm, practical and direct where helpful.
Sex and relationship difficulties can feel lonely, painful and hard to name. I am a Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist, often called a sex therapist, supporting couples, throuples and individuals online and in Essex. I work with low desire, mismatched desire, painful sex, erection or ejaculation difficulties, orgasm concerns, porn-related worries, affairs, secrecy, shame and relationship crisis. My approach is warm, practical and direct where helpful.
020 3909 9848 View 020 3909 9848
Photo of Annabel Wyatt, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Annabel Wyatt
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
1 Endorsed
I am very experienced and have worked with many issues clients bring from relationship problems to work stress and low self esteem. I can help you find a solution, a way of being happier or living life less anxiously. I listen to you and what you want to achieve. 1) Over 24 years experience 2) Relate Trained Couples Therapists 3) Professional, friendly manner.
I am very experienced and have worked with many issues clients bring from relationship problems to work stress and low self esteem. I can help you find a solution, a way of being happier or living life less anxiously. I listen to you and what you want to achieve. 1) Over 24 years experience 2) Relate Trained Couples Therapists 3) Professional, friendly manner.
01376 311270 View 01376 311270
Photo of Caroline Maria Faiers - Pure Thoughts Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Pure Thoughts Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I have been where you are. Feels a little scary doesn't it? Taking those first tentative steps towards the life you know deep down that you really deserve. Let me tell you, that the hardest and bravest decision you have already made; to seek professional help and advice. From here on, you need not feel alone. We will work though your troubles and life's complications together. I will be committed to your recovery, supporting you whole heartedly throughout your journey of inner discovery.
I have been where you are. Feels a little scary doesn't it? Taking those first tentative steps towards the life you know deep down that you really deserve. Let me tell you, that the hardest and bravest decision you have already made; to seek professional help and advice. From here on, you need not feel alone. We will work though your troubles and life's complications together. I will be committed to your recovery, supporting you whole heartedly throughout your journey of inner discovery.
01603 361775 View 01603 361775
Photo of Shaman Emrys, MA
Shaman Emrys
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I have the best job in the world: it’s to help you find the peace you’re looking for. That’s what I’ve been doing, first as a shamanic counsellor then as a psychotherapist, for others just like you, for 47 years. Whether you have a phobia, or are in a dire, life-threatening situation, or anything in between, you’re just a call away from finding yourself warmly welcomed to a totally non-judgemental, safe, comfortable space where you can relax and unload whatever you want in total confidence: then we can get straight to work fixing it.
I have the best job in the world: it’s to help you find the peace you’re looking for. That’s what I’ve been doing, first as a shamanic counsellor then as a psychotherapist, for others just like you, for 47 years. Whether you have a phobia, or are in a dire, life-threatening situation, or anything in between, you’re just a call away from finding yourself warmly welcomed to a totally non-judgemental, safe, comfortable space where you can relax and unload whatever you want in total confidence: then we can get straight to work fixing it.
01359 302635 View 01359 302635
Photo of Michaela Kent - Include Counselling and Psychotherapy Services , Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Include Counselling and Psychotherapy Services
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Beccles NR34
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Michaela, I am a person-centred counsellor, EMDR and psychological trauma specialist. Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, and unresolved issues, and need to prioritise your mental well-being. Using tailored techniques, I’ll work alongside you move forwards through relationship challenges, career decisions, or personal growth. Work with you to start your transformation today , you deserve your best life every day. I work with children, adults and couples. I have experience in working with bereavement, Sexual physical and mental abuse, child loss ,experience of working with child and Young People.
My name is Michaela, I am a person-centred counsellor, EMDR and psychological trauma specialist. Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, and unresolved issues, and need to prioritise your mental well-being. Using tailored techniques, I’ll work alongside you move forwards through relationship challenges, career decisions, or personal growth. Work with you to start your transformation today , you deserve your best life every day. I work with children, adults and couples. I have experience in working with bereavement, Sexual physical and mental abuse, child loss ,experience of working with child and Young People.
01502 440563 View 01502 440563
Photo of Philip Kemp Mbacp, Counsellor, MBACP
Philip Kemp Mbacp
Counsellor, MBACP
Ipswich IP4
" • Addiction: Healing the "why" beneath the cycle • LGBTQ+ therapy: As a proud member of the community, I offer a truly lived-experience perspective.
You don’t have to carry the weight alone. Hi, I'm Phil.  Feeling low, anxious, or isolated can make you feel like a "black sheep". But in my experience—both professional and personal—these struggles aren't failures; they are part of being human. I provide a non-judgmental yet challenging space where your voice is truly heard. Together, we’ll tap into your innate resilience to help you move from surviving to flourishing.
" • Addiction: Healing the "why" beneath the cycle • LGBTQ+ therapy: As a proud member of the community, I offer a truly lived-experience perspective.
You don’t have to carry the weight alone. Hi, I'm Phil.  Feeling low, anxious, or isolated can make you feel like a "black sheep". But in my experience—both professional and personal—these struggles aren't failures; they are part of being human. I provide a non-judgmental yet challenging space where your voice is truly heard. Together, we’ll tap into your innate resilience to help you move from surviving to flourishing.
01277 674133 View 01277 674133
Photo of Darren David, Counsellor, MBACP
Darren David
Counsellor, MBACP
Norwich NR4
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. Managing life's challenges and our mental health can be overwhelming. Whether it's anxiety, depression, coping with loss or just working out what's wrong and why we're feeling sad, we sometimes need help with our thoughts and feelings. Working online or in person in Norwich (Eaton, NR4), I work with adult individuals and couples to help them gently explore what's troubling them and to find a way forward.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. Managing life's challenges and our mental health can be overwhelming. Whether it's anxiety, depression, coping with loss or just working out what's wrong and why we're feeling sad, we sometimes need help with our thoughts and feelings. Working online or in person in Norwich (Eaton, NR4), I work with adult individuals and couples to help them gently explore what's troubling them and to find a way forward.
01603 249248 View 01603 249248
Photo of James Paton, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
James Paton
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a queer, neurodivergent therapist, I understand how identity and life experience can shape how we move through the world, and I aim to create a space where you can feel comfortable being yourself.
Our work together is flexible and shaped around your needs. In our first session, we’ll talk about what you’re looking for and agree how we want to work together, including how we check in on progress.
As a queer, neurodivergent therapist, I understand how identity and life experience can shape how we move through the world, and I aim to create a space where you can feel comfortable being yourself.
Our work together is flexible and shaped around your needs. In our first session, we’ll talk about what you’re looking for and agree how we want to work together, including how we check in on progress.
01621 738568 View 01621 738568
Photo of Christopher Jackson, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Christopher Jackson
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
2 Endorsed
Norwich NR4
Hi, my name is Dr Chris Jackson and I am a Clinical Psychologist and accredited dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) therapist. I offer 1:1 therapy for people aged 18 and above.
Hi, my name is Dr Chris Jackson and I am a Clinical Psychologist and accredited dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) therapist. I offer 1:1 therapy for people aged 18 and above.
01603 361863 View 01603 361863
Photo of Michael Patrick Buckley, Counsellor, MA, MUKCP
Michael Patrick Buckley
Counsellor, MA, MUKCP
Ipswich IP8
With over 25 years experience working as a therapist and my own life challenges, I am still continually stretching myself and increasing my knowledge and skills, for the benefit of my clients. My passion and purpose in life is to challenge my own mind and passing that knowledge and experience on, helping you to do the same and ultimately feeling able to handle anything that happens in life, even through difficult times. Issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, fears, etc. are quite common in these times and together we may be able to help you with strategies and clear understanding at a deeper level, enabling you to progress.
With over 25 years experience working as a therapist and my own life challenges, I am still continually stretching myself and increasing my knowledge and skills, for the benefit of my clients. My passion and purpose in life is to challenge my own mind and passing that knowledge and experience on, helping you to do the same and ultimately feeling able to handle anything that happens in life, even through difficult times. Issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, fears, etc. are quite common in these times and together we may be able to help you with strategies and clear understanding at a deeper level, enabling you to progress.
01473 921531 View 01473 921531
Photo of Jacqui Grimsey, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Jacqui Grimsey
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
This can be particularly helpful for neurodiverse and LGBTQIA+ clients struggling with issues of identity in a world that often doesn't reflect them.
Have you lost your confidence, sense of self or purpose? maybe there's current or past issues that are blocking you from thriving. Are you seeing patterns repeat themselves in relationships, or maybe you just need a safe space to talk? If you're feeling anxious, depressed or anything in between, we can look at the wider picture to help clear the fog, get your feet on steady ground and make the changes you want to see.
This can be particularly helpful for neurodiverse and LGBTQIA+ clients struggling with issues of identity in a world that often doesn't reflect them.
Have you lost your confidence, sense of self or purpose? maybe there's current or past issues that are blocking you from thriving. Are you seeing patterns repeat themselves in relationships, or maybe you just need a safe space to talk? If you're feeling anxious, depressed or anything in between, we can look at the wider picture to help clear the fog, get your feet on steady ground and make the changes you want to see.
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Photo of Stevie Burnett, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Stevie Burnett
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Norwich NR4
I am a Clinical Psychologist and CBT therapist with 10 years of experience providing evidence-based psychological support in the NHS, charity and private sectors. I specialise in working with OCD, trauma (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and self-esteem related issues. That said, you don’t need to be experiencing a ‘disorder’ to benefit from psychological support; sometimes life just feels overwhelming or confusing, and that’s reason enough. Alongside CBT, I also use EMDR, ACT, CFT, and relational approaches in my work. My range of training means that I draw on a number of therapy models to adapt therapy to your unique needs.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and CBT therapist with 10 years of experience providing evidence-based psychological support in the NHS, charity and private sectors. I specialise in working with OCD, trauma (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and self-esteem related issues. That said, you don’t need to be experiencing a ‘disorder’ to benefit from psychological support; sometimes life just feels overwhelming or confusing, and that’s reason enough. Alongside CBT, I also use EMDR, ACT, CFT, and relational approaches in my work. My range of training means that I draw on a number of therapy models to adapt therapy to your unique needs.
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Photo of Heather Oglesby, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Heather Oglesby
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
I work with a wide range of people, I am passionate about working with those who identify as LGBTQ+ and those who may be questioning their sexual orientation and/or gender identity.
I trained as an integrative counsellor covering Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and Jungian Therapy. Using these theories I can tailor my approach to fit with what works for you. I also use creativity for those who find it difficult to find or voice their emotions. I mostly work long term/open-ended, so there isn't a limit on the amount of sessions we could have.
I work with a wide range of people, I am passionate about working with those who identify as LGBTQ+ and those who may be questioning their sexual orientation and/or gender identity.
I trained as an integrative counsellor covering Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and Jungian Therapy. Using these theories I can tailor my approach to fit with what works for you. I also use creativity for those who find it difficult to find or voice their emotions. I mostly work long term/open-ended, so there isn't a limit on the amount of sessions we could have.
01638 591586 View 01638 591586
Photo of Helen Watkins, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Helen Watkins
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I help adults handle trauma, grief and big life changes through weekly/fortnightly sessions or Therapy Intensives. (Spaces for new clients from mid-July). Are you anxious, overwhelmed, blindsided by life events or exhausted from pretending everything’s fine in your life, work or relationships? Are you struggling to push down past trauma, only for it to push right back up? Maybe you’re flooded with too many emotions at once, so numb that you barely feel anything at all, or you’ve lost a sense of who you are? If you don’t know where to start or find it too daunting to tackle alone, I’m here to help process what’s painful or confusing.
I help adults handle trauma, grief and big life changes through weekly/fortnightly sessions or Therapy Intensives. (Spaces for new clients from mid-July). Are you anxious, overwhelmed, blindsided by life events or exhausted from pretending everything’s fine in your life, work or relationships? Are you struggling to push down past trauma, only for it to push right back up? Maybe you’re flooded with too many emotions at once, so numb that you barely feel anything at all, or you’ve lost a sense of who you are? If you don’t know where to start or find it too daunting to tackle alone, I’m here to help process what’s painful or confusing.
01603 249367 View 01603 249367
Photo of Tracey Woolf, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Tracey Woolf
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
Hello, I’m Tracey - I'm a queer identifying Counsellor and Supervisor and have been offering therapeutic support since 2004.
I am passionate about providing a high quality queer and neurodivergent friendly practice where people feel accepted and understood. I have recently added supervision to my practice and am interested in working with colleagues with a GSRD focus. If you are looking for a supervisor or some additional supervision, please feel free to contact me.
Hello, I’m Tracey - I'm a queer identifying Counsellor and Supervisor and have been offering therapeutic support since 2004.
I am passionate about providing a high quality queer and neurodivergent friendly practice where people feel accepted and understood. I have recently added supervision to my practice and am interested in working with colleagues with a GSRD focus. If you are looking for a supervisor or some additional supervision, please feel free to contact me.
01603 361573 View 01603 361573
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.