LGBTQ+ Counselling in BH12

Photo of Mandy Jane Nicholson, MBACP, Counsellor
Mandy Jane Nicholson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
Waitlist for new clients
Many people, including LGBTQ people, struggle to identify, connect with, explore and express deep-seated emotions due to feeling or being made to feel different or unacceptable by society, family or friends.
I am an empathic, approachable and experienced (5yrs) Humanistic Integrative LGBTQ affirmative counsellor. I also integrate CBT into my practice particularly when working with anxiety. I have facilitated numerous Wellbeing Support Groups for Dorset Mind including 2 LGBTQ peer-support talking groups and an anxiety support group. My private practice was based at Over the Rainbow Sexual Health Clinic in Bournemouth for 5 years where I have had the privilege of working with a variety of LGBTQ people experiencing numerous Wellbeing Challenges including:Post Traumatic Injury, OCD, Depression, Social Anxiety and Emotionally Unstable PD.
Many people, including LGBTQ people, struggle to identify, connect with, explore and express deep-seated emotions due to feeling or being made to feel different or unacceptable by society, family or friends.
I am an empathic, approachable and experienced (5yrs) Humanistic Integrative LGBTQ affirmative counsellor. I also integrate CBT into my practice particularly when working with anxiety. I have facilitated numerous Wellbeing Support Groups for Dorset Mind including 2 LGBTQ peer-support talking groups and an anxiety support group. My private practice was based at Over the Rainbow Sexual Health Clinic in Bournemouth for 5 years where I have had the privilege of working with a variety of LGBTQ people experiencing numerous Wellbeing Challenges including:Post Traumatic Injury, OCD, Depression, Social Anxiety and Emotionally Unstable PD.
01202 286144 View 01202 286144
Photo of Sarah-Jane Wright, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Sarah-Jane Wright
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
I am an Accredited Therapeutic Counsellor and Member of the British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP). Life can sometimes be difficult. Everyone experiences times in their lives when they need a little extra support. I understand how daunting it can be to even think about talking to a stranger, so I can offer an empathic, confidential space if you have an issue you are finding hard to deal with on your own. I recommend an introductory session in which we can discuss whatever is troubling you and see if you would feel comfortable talking to me. If so, we can work together to find a way to deal with it.
I am an Accredited Therapeutic Counsellor and Member of the British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP). Life can sometimes be difficult. Everyone experiences times in their lives when they need a little extra support. I understand how daunting it can be to even think about talking to a stranger, so I can offer an empathic, confidential space if you have an issue you are finding hard to deal with on your own. I recommend an introductory session in which we can discuss whatever is troubling you and see if you would feel comfortable talking to me. If so, we can work together to find a way to deal with it.
01202 125236 View 01202 125236
Photo of Gill Patricia de Sylva, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Gill Patricia de Sylva
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
We all struggle at times to manage the pressures of everyday life. It maybe feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, recent or past trauma, anger or relationship difficulties. I am integratively trained meaning I value your individuality and can tailor my approach to your own unique needs. I am non-judgemental and offer empathy and warmth. We will work together to achieve your goals. I believe each client has the healing potential within to overcome life problems. The relationship we build together provides support and facilitates awareness, insight and personal growth thus allowing a more empowered happier life.
We all struggle at times to manage the pressures of everyday life. It maybe feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, recent or past trauma, anger or relationship difficulties. I am integratively trained meaning I value your individuality and can tailor my approach to your own unique needs. I am non-judgemental and offer empathy and warmth. We will work together to achieve your goals. I believe each client has the healing potential within to overcome life problems. The relationship we build together provides support and facilitates awareness, insight and personal growth thus allowing a more empowered happier life.
01202 835203 View 01202 835203
Photo of Em Hirst - Em Hirst - Counselling, BACP, Counsellor
Em Hirst - Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
My approach draws on Person Centred Theory, Transactional Analysis and Gestalt (Humanistic Integrative) - in essence valuing you as you are and supporting you as you discover your future the way you choose it.
If low mood, anxiety, perinatal issues, eating disordered behaviours, body image, identity issues, relationship concerns or past experiences are preventing you from the life you choose contact me to discuss how I may support you. I tailor our approach to meet your individual needs. Whether that's untangling the past so you can live meaningfully in the present or building on your sense of who you are. Your challenges are unique to you and our therapy together reflects that.
My approach draws on Person Centred Theory, Transactional Analysis and Gestalt (Humanistic Integrative) - in essence valuing you as you are and supporting you as you discover your future the way you choose it.
If low mood, anxiety, perinatal issues, eating disordered behaviours, body image, identity issues, relationship concerns or past experiences are preventing you from the life you choose contact me to discuss how I may support you. I tailor our approach to meet your individual needs. Whether that's untangling the past so you can live meaningfully in the present or building on your sense of who you are. Your challenges are unique to you and our therapy together reflects that.
01722 448208 View 01722 448208
Photo of Mandy Heath, BACP, Counsellor
Mandy Heath
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poole BH12
Are you telling people you are 'fine' even though you know you are not? Maybe you are going through a bereavement, a life transition, a difficult period of your life and need some emotional support? Maybe you have already experienced difficulties in your life and are struggling with the way you feel on the other side of it. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem or depression?
Are you telling people you are 'fine' even though you know you are not? Maybe you are going through a bereavement, a life transition, a difficult period of your life and need some emotional support? Maybe you have already experienced difficulties in your life and are struggling with the way you feel on the other side of it. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem or depression?
01202 835464 View 01202 835464
Photo of Richard Absalom, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Richard Absalom
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Poole BH12  (Online Only)
Experienced and established Integrative Individual and Couples Counsellor offering online appointments on Zoom or Skype. As well as my initial core training and qualification in Integrative Counselling (2006) I am additionally qualified in Sex and Relationship therapy. I have worked with individuals since 2006, and couples since 2009. Whatever your circumstances, I am passionate about helping people tap back into their own resources in order to solve problems and make changes. I can help, when unhelpful thoughts patterns and behaviours are keeping you stuck. The aim is to help you gain insight, and heighten self awareness.
Experienced and established Integrative Individual and Couples Counsellor offering online appointments on Zoom or Skype. As well as my initial core training and qualification in Integrative Counselling (2006) I am additionally qualified in Sex and Relationship therapy. I have worked with individuals since 2006, and couples since 2009. Whatever your circumstances, I am passionate about helping people tap back into their own resources in order to solve problems and make changes. I can help, when unhelpful thoughts patterns and behaviours are keeping you stuck. The aim is to help you gain insight, and heighten self awareness.
01202 013959 View 01202 013959
Photo of Nicky Vallance, MBACP, Counsellor
Nicky Vallance
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
Hi, I'm Nicky. I can help if you are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, or coming to terms with long-term health issues. If you find yourself fitting around everyone else's needs at the expense of your own or have not been able to move on from past experiences, or are overloaded then I can help you to turn things around. I offer a warm, safe, confidential space to talk and overcome the challenges you are facing, tune into your emotions, so they become your guide rather than overwhelm you. Most importantly build a new relationship with yourself and feel more confident and in control of your life.
Hi, I'm Nicky. I can help if you are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, or coming to terms with long-term health issues. If you find yourself fitting around everyone else's needs at the expense of your own or have not been able to move on from past experiences, or are overloaded then I can help you to turn things around. I offer a warm, safe, confidential space to talk and overcome the challenges you are facing, tune into your emotions, so they become your guide rather than overwhelm you. Most importantly build a new relationship with yourself and feel more confident and in control of your life.
01202 125197 View 01202 125197
Photo of Zoe Silk, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Zoe Silk
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
I am very passionate about my work and what I love most is seeing my clients progress. Observing their changes and seeing how good they feel within themselves is a wonderful journey to share. I offer support with all kinds of issues. You may be suffering with an anxiety disorder, depression perhaps, an issue within a relationship, an addiction or something else. Whatever your issue is, my aim is to spend time getting to know you, finding the root cause to your problem and any other factors that may have to be taken into consideration. Then, together we can work towards a solid plan for you to more you forward as an individual.
I am very passionate about my work and what I love most is seeing my clients progress. Observing their changes and seeing how good they feel within themselves is a wonderful journey to share. I offer support with all kinds of issues. You may be suffering with an anxiety disorder, depression perhaps, an issue within a relationship, an addiction or something else. Whatever your issue is, my aim is to spend time getting to know you, finding the root cause to your problem and any other factors that may have to be taken into consideration. Then, together we can work towards a solid plan for you to more you forward as an individual.
01202 117054 View 01202 117054
Photo of Dr Katie Casey, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Katie Casey
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
Living (or parenting a child) with the effects of trauma and other mental health difficulties can feel impossible. Unfortunately, finding help can be a daunting process with so many solutions being offered and not all of them being evidence based. The next best step is often to get in touch for a free 15 minute consultation to find out if I feel like the right fit for you or your child.
Living (or parenting a child) with the effects of trauma and other mental health difficulties can feel impossible. Unfortunately, finding help can be a daunting process with so many solutions being offered and not all of them being evidence based. The next best step is often to get in touch for a free 15 minute consultation to find out if I feel like the right fit for you or your child.
01425 209296 View 01425 209296
Photo of Abby Orchard, MBACP, Counsellor
Abby Orchard
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poole BH12
Do you feel you could develop your potential further? Do you feel anxious or depressed or suffer from PTSD? Is your relationship suffering? Are you finding difficult to manage stressors? Is this getting in the way of you achieving your goals and the quality of life and relationship you desire? I can help!
Do you feel you could develop your potential further? Do you feel anxious or depressed or suffer from PTSD? Is your relationship suffering? Are you finding difficult to manage stressors? Is this getting in the way of you achieving your goals and the quality of life and relationship you desire? I can help!
01202 125945 View 01202 125945
Photo of Paula Phillips, MBACP, Counsellor
Paula Phillips
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
Life can present us with unwelcome events at any age. Professional counselling can't change these events but can provide tools and techniques to help minimise their impact. In my practise, counselling is primarily about the relationship between you and me. It is a talking therapy where we can explore what is troubling you in a safe, non-judgemental setting. Every person is an individual and therefore counselling can be different for everyone. I am more relationship driven rather than theory driven.
Life can present us with unwelcome events at any age. Professional counselling can't change these events but can provide tools and techniques to help minimise their impact. In my practise, counselling is primarily about the relationship between you and me. It is a talking therapy where we can explore what is troubling you in a safe, non-judgemental setting. Every person is an individual and therefore counselling can be different for everyone. I am more relationship driven rather than theory driven.
01202 286479 View 01202 286479
Photo of Jamie Pepper, MBACP, Counsellor
Jamie Pepper
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
Your experience matters, and I would love to give you the space to explore it. Maybe there are things you feel unable to discuss with other people in your life, or maybe you do discuss these things, but don't feel truly understood, or like other people have the mental space to stay with you as you work through difficult times. Providing that space for you is my goal. I'm here to support you to explore your identity, past traumatic experiences, and how you find your place in the world around you. You don't have to feel lost. Message me to arrange a free online introduction where we can start to explore what's going on for you.
Your experience matters, and I would love to give you the space to explore it. Maybe there are things you feel unable to discuss with other people in your life, or maybe you do discuss these things, but don't feel truly understood, or like other people have the mental space to stay with you as you work through difficult times. Providing that space for you is my goal. I'm here to support you to explore your identity, past traumatic experiences, and how you find your place in the world around you. You don't have to feel lost. Message me to arrange a free online introduction where we can start to explore what's going on for you.
01209 701126 View 01209 701126
Photo of Sarah Scott, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Sarah Scott
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
Hello, my name is Sarah. I’m a qualified & professional counsellor and psychotherapist. I’m fully insured, DBS checked & registered with The National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS). If you are visiting my profile, then maybe life has brought up some difficulties which are challenging for you to cope with. I work in an empathic and non-judgemental way to support you to make sense of what you are going through. Seeking therapy is the first step in beginning the process of achieving your goals and improving your wellbeing.
Hello, my name is Sarah. I’m a qualified & professional counsellor and psychotherapist. I’m fully insured, DBS checked & registered with The National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS). If you are visiting my profile, then maybe life has brought up some difficulties which are challenging for you to cope with. I work in an empathic and non-judgemental way to support you to make sense of what you are going through. Seeking therapy is the first step in beginning the process of achieving your goals and improving your wellbeing.
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Photo of Laura Starnier, MBACP, Counsellor
Laura Starnier
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
But as time goes by, transpersonal therapy can help us see that the symptoms are there for a reason; perhaps we weren't living a fulfilling and authentic life.
I am a psycho-spiritual therapist with additional training in bereavement and creative expression. My practice allows for the structure of psychoanalysis, whilst welcoming the spiritual and physical way you are in the world. (You do not have to identify as 'spiritual' to enter transpersonal therapy.) It also recognises that we are interconnected. In other words, what is happening to you, involves others too, it is not all of your own creating. I also work with physical symptoms of psychological pain. The way we work with or against our physical-ness has a deep impact on the way we live our lives.
But as time goes by, transpersonal therapy can help us see that the symptoms are there for a reason; perhaps we weren't living a fulfilling and authentic life.
I am a psycho-spiritual therapist with additional training in bereavement and creative expression. My practice allows for the structure of psychoanalysis, whilst welcoming the spiritual and physical way you are in the world. (You do not have to identify as 'spiritual' to enter transpersonal therapy.) It also recognises that we are interconnected. In other words, what is happening to you, involves others too, it is not all of your own creating. I also work with physical symptoms of psychological pain. The way we work with or against our physical-ness has a deep impact on the way we live our lives.
01202 125463 View 01202 125463
Photo of Abi Leigh-Watts, BACP, Counsellor
Abi Leigh-Watts
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
Hello, I'm Abi. I am not going to guess why you are considering counselling. Everyone's reasons for seeking support are varied and unique to them. You are looking here, and that is the first step to trying it out. Counselling needs to be experienced to see if it works for you. We can work together to safely unravel any difficulties, challenges, or confusions to help you gain a better understanding of yourself, your values and priorities. I believe that enhancing your self-compassion and knowing yourself better can be the gateway to a more fulfilling and content life. Counselling with me can give you an opportunity to do that.
Hello, I'm Abi. I am not going to guess why you are considering counselling. Everyone's reasons for seeking support are varied and unique to them. You are looking here, and that is the first step to trying it out. Counselling needs to be experienced to see if it works for you. We can work together to safely unravel any difficulties, challenges, or confusions to help you gain a better understanding of yourself, your values and priorities. I believe that enhancing your self-compassion and knowing yourself better can be the gateway to a more fulfilling and content life. Counselling with me can give you an opportunity to do that.
01425 208527 View 01425 208527
Photo of Sue Helen Hamilton-White - Untapped Art Therapy, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Untapped Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
We are a team of Art Psychotherapists skilled in offering psychological support to children and young people who have experienced trauma, sexual abuse, bereavement and loss. We are able to support those experiencing anxiety, depression, psychosis, agoraphobia, suicidal ideation and self-harm, as well as those experiencing difficulties related to autism, Aspergers and Down Syndrome. We have experience working with gender and sexual identity. We are dedicated to supporting vulnerable young people using art. www.untapped.org.uk
We are a team of Art Psychotherapists skilled in offering psychological support to children and young people who have experienced trauma, sexual abuse, bereavement and loss. We are able to support those experiencing anxiety, depression, psychosis, agoraphobia, suicidal ideation and self-harm, as well as those experiencing difficulties related to autism, Aspergers and Down Syndrome. We have experience working with gender and sexual identity. We are dedicated to supporting vulnerable young people using art. www.untapped.org.uk
01865 950966 View 01865 950966

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Nearby LGBTQ+ Counsellors Searches for BH12

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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.