LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Ilkley, ENG
Adele McGovern
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29
I'm LGBTQIA+ friendly.
If you want to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your relationships, the patterns you might find repeating, or of your difficulties, we might work well together. I specialise in identity development. I work with people who want something to be different in their life, even if they're not sure what that is yet. Maybe you have an anxiety that takes hold and limits you in ways you're sick of. Maybe you feel a deep dissatisfaction or you're living with depression. Perhaps you find yourself in relationships that hurt you in similar ways and you're wondering how that keeps happening, and how you could gain the power to change it.
I'm LGBTQIA+ friendly.
If you want to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your relationships, the patterns you might find repeating, or of your difficulties, we might work well together. I specialise in identity development. I work with people who want something to be different in their life, even if they're not sure what that is yet. Maybe you have an anxiety that takes hold and limits you in ways you're sick of. Maybe you feel a deep dissatisfaction or you're living with depression. Perhaps you find yourself in relationships that hurt you in similar ways and you're wondering how that keeps happening, and how you could gain the power to change it.
Shan Merchant (Couples Therapist)
Counsellor, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29
Do you feel despair or a growing distance in your relationship no matter what you do? Are you struggling to communicate with your partner? My clients often tell me they miss warmth & affection and wish they could turn back the clock to happier times. Perhaps your partner had an affair and you're both scared and don't know what to do now. Either way, one thing's for sure: you’re desperate for some relief. It might be hard to imagine your relationship could be full of fun and laughter again but this has happened with my clients. Together we can move you from anxiety and stuckness to feeling happy again.
Do you feel despair or a growing distance in your relationship no matter what you do? Are you struggling to communicate with your partner? My clients often tell me they miss warmth & affection and wish they could turn back the clock to happier times. Perhaps your partner had an affair and you're both scared and don't know what to do now. Either way, one thing's for sure: you’re desperate for some relief. It might be hard to imagine your relationship could be full of fun and laughter again but this has happened with my clients. Together we can move you from anxiety and stuckness to feeling happy again.
Cheryl Taylor
Psychotherapist, PhD, BACP
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29
Neurodivergence: ADHD, Autism. Bipolar, Psychosis, EMDR/ Trauma, CPTSD, dissociation, Attachment.
Neurodivergence: ADHD, Autism. Bipolar, Psychosis, EMDR/ Trauma, CPTSD, dissociation, Attachment.
Phil McQuillan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29
I am a qualified integrative psychotherapist with previous experience of working an NHS and a university setting. I work with adults and young people 17+, who come to see me about anxiety, panic attacks, stress, trauma, relationship issues, difficulties at work, identity, low confidence, bereavement, depression, issues stemming from neurodiversity and people seeking personal development.
I am a qualified integrative psychotherapist with previous experience of working an NHS and a university setting. I work with adults and young people 17+, who come to see me about anxiety, panic attacks, stress, trauma, relationship issues, difficulties at work, identity, low confidence, bereavement, depression, issues stemming from neurodiversity and people seeking personal development.
Nicola Dilenardo Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29
Hi, I'm Nicola and I’d love to help you. The fact you've landed here on this page means you're likely struggling with something and are looking for some help. That's where I come in. I offer a safe confidential space, free from judgement and prejudice, to talk through whatever challenge you may be facing.
Hi, I'm Nicola and I’d love to help you. The fact you've landed here on this page means you're likely struggling with something and are looking for some help. That's where I come in. I offer a safe confidential space, free from judgement and prejudice, to talk through whatever challenge you may be facing.
Elizabeth Robinson
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29
Elizabeth Robinson Accredited Counsellor / Psychotherapist , Couple counsellor , Family counsellor adults only and Clinical Supervisor . I have over 19 years experience working and training within a variety of organisations , NHS, General Practice, Bradford Rape Crisis , Behind Closed Doors( Domestic Violence ) , Sue Ryder Hospice. Best gift you can give yourself is to come for some counselling it will support you finding yourself again and gain clarity to make the best choice for you in your life. I look forward to hearing from you.
Elizabeth Robinson Accredited Counsellor / Psychotherapist , Couple counsellor , Family counsellor adults only and Clinical Supervisor . I have over 19 years experience working and training within a variety of organisations , NHS, General Practice, Bradford Rape Crisis , Behind Closed Doors( Domestic Violence ) , Sue Ryder Hospice. Best gift you can give yourself is to come for some counselling it will support you finding yourself again and gain clarity to make the best choice for you in your life. I look forward to hearing from you.
Alla Horoshenkova
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29
Therapy is a place to explore what is going on for you below the surface. I offer my warmth, compassion, and genuine intention to understand your experiences so that together we can work out what is the root of the matter.
Therapy is a place to explore what is going on for you below the surface. I offer my warmth, compassion, and genuine intention to understand your experiences so that together we can work out what is the root of the matter.
Paul Schofield
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29
I know that seeking out a counsellor can be no easy task, and if you're reading this it's possible that you may have just had enough with feeling the way that you do. Sometimes we all need support in finding a way through, and in offering that support I bring the depth of my expertise and experience as a counsellor. I work with warmth, compassion and integrity, and a genuine desire to help a person tackle the particular difficulties facing them (see my video below). As a counsellor and psychotherapist I I have some 20 years experience in supporting clients of all ages and from diverse backgrounds.
I know that seeking out a counsellor can be no easy task, and if you're reading this it's possible that you may have just had enough with feeling the way that you do. Sometimes we all need support in finding a way through, and in offering that support I bring the depth of my expertise and experience as a counsellor. I work with warmth, compassion and integrity, and a genuine desire to help a person tackle the particular difficulties facing them (see my video below). As a counsellor and psychotherapist I I have some 20 years experience in supporting clients of all ages and from diverse backgrounds.
Susan Moorehouse
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ilkley LS29
As a person-centred counsellor I aim to support clients to recognise their own strengths and resources, so that they may work through issues and find solutions to their problems. I provide a safe and nurturing environment so that clients feel heard, accepted and able to explore thoughts and feelings without judgement. I work with competence, confidence, empathy and always have my client’s best interest at heart. Seeing things from the clients perspective helps to facilitate personal growth, change and enables clients to make life choices that are right for them. I also work for the NHS, frontline, this adds variety to my experience.
As a person-centred counsellor I aim to support clients to recognise their own strengths and resources, so that they may work through issues and find solutions to their problems. I provide a safe and nurturing environment so that clients feel heard, accepted and able to explore thoughts and feelings without judgement. I work with competence, confidence, empathy and always have my client’s best interest at heart. Seeing things from the clients perspective helps to facilitate personal growth, change and enables clients to make life choices that are right for them. I also work for the NHS, frontline, this adds variety to my experience.
Janina Grimshaw
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29
Hi, my name’s Janina and I am a fully qualified therapist offering in-person counselling in the centre of Leeds and Ilkley, as well as online counselling to people across the UK. You may be looking for support to process difficult events, time to explore your own sense of identity, or space to allow your feelings to be heard. Taking the decision to start counselling can be a difficult and daunting step and my priority is to ensure we work together at a pace that feels right for you. As every person is unique, every therapeutic relationship is too, so the way we work together will be individual to you.
Hi, my name’s Janina and I am a fully qualified therapist offering in-person counselling in the centre of Leeds and Ilkley, as well as online counselling to people across the UK. You may be looking for support to process difficult events, time to explore your own sense of identity, or space to allow your feelings to be heard. Taking the decision to start counselling can be a difficult and daunting step and my priority is to ensure we work together at a pace that feels right for you. As every person is unique, every therapeutic relationship is too, so the way we work together will be individual to you.
Sally Wambold
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29 (Online Only)
I offer an online confidential, caring counselling service for individuals to help you work through emotional issues such as bereavement, relationship issues, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, stress and past experiences that are impacting you in the present. You may be feeling unhappy, stuck or struggling to cope with everyday life. I have a special interest in counselling & coaching for neurodiverse individuals and provide additional insight & empathy through my own lived experience of neurodiversity. I also have considerable experience of working with both cancer patients & their supporters to manage their trauma & stress.
I offer an online confidential, caring counselling service for individuals to help you work through emotional issues such as bereavement, relationship issues, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, stress and past experiences that are impacting you in the present. You may be feeling unhappy, stuck or struggling to cope with everyday life. I have a special interest in counselling & coaching for neurodiverse individuals and provide additional insight & empathy through my own lived experience of neurodiversity. I also have considerable experience of working with both cancer patients & their supporters to manage their trauma & stress.
15 Second Videos
Shan Merchant (Couples Therapist)
Paul Schofield
Janina Grimshaw
Sally Wambold
Tabitha Bast: Relationship and Sex Therapy
Bradley Twigg, CBT Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29 (Online Only)
My focus is to support people to develop insight into the thoughts, feelings and behaviours that underpin their difficulties. You may have been feeling really low, or perhaps anxious? You might have found difficult completing the things that you used to enjoy? Or past events might be stopping you from living the life you want to live. I am passionate about CBT as it is a goal focused, collaborative, well researched and can transform people's lives. Not everyone has heard of CBT, however it has quickly become one of the most popular choices of therapy available and can help with so many life problems, including those listed above.
My focus is to support people to develop insight into the thoughts, feelings and behaviours that underpin their difficulties. You may have been feeling really low, or perhaps anxious? You might have found difficult completing the things that you used to enjoy? Or past events might be stopping you from living the life you want to live. I am passionate about CBT as it is a goal focused, collaborative, well researched and can transform people's lives. Not everyone has heard of CBT, however it has quickly become one of the most popular choices of therapy available and can help with so many life problems, including those listed above.
Tabitha Bast: Relationship and Sex Therapy
Counsellor, MSc, COSRT General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ilkley LS29 (Online Only)
Love, sex and personal relationships are the place where we store our hopes, our fears and our vulnerabilities. When our connection with ourselves and others is going well it can feel transformative, but when it isn’t it can be extremely distressing. I offer a non-judgemental integrative approach to relationship and psychosexual therapy to work best with your circumstance, whatever they are, whether single, in a couple or open/polyamorous relationships. Troubled relationships, arguing, erection issues, loss of desire, anxiety, painful sex, vaginismus, shame about porn use or kinks, communication problems. This can all change.
Love, sex and personal relationships are the place where we store our hopes, our fears and our vulnerabilities. When our connection with ourselves and others is going well it can feel transformative, but when it isn’t it can be extremely distressing. I offer a non-judgemental integrative approach to relationship and psychosexual therapy to work best with your circumstance, whatever they are, whether single, in a couple or open/polyamorous relationships. Troubled relationships, arguing, erection issues, loss of desire, anxiety, painful sex, vaginismus, shame about porn use or kinks, communication problems. This can all change.
More Therapists Nearby
Rachel Kaye
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Shipley BD18 (Online Only)
I specialise in working with LGBTQ+ clients and those who have always felt ‘different’ in some way. Your identity and experiences might make you worry that most therapists out there wouldn’t get you. You might be looking for help because you are experiencing anxiety, relationship challenges, difficulties making decisions or setting boundaries. It might seem like you have too many overwhelming feelings, or rarely any feelings at all. I understand that your identity may not be the reason you’re coming to therapy, but you don’t want to have to spend your session time educating your therapist about it.
I specialise in working with LGBTQ+ clients and those who have always felt ‘different’ in some way. Your identity and experiences might make you worry that most therapists out there wouldn’t get you. You might be looking for help because you are experiencing anxiety, relationship challenges, difficulties making decisions or setting boundaries. It might seem like you have too many overwhelming feelings, or rarely any feelings at all. I understand that your identity may not be the reason you’re coming to therapy, but you don’t want to have to spend your session time educating your therapist about it.
Mamta Ward
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bradford BD1
I have specialisms in working with race and cultural identity and am an LGBTQ+ ally, areas where there is often little support and speaking to the right person can really help.
Welcome. It can feel difficult to start with counselling, so let me start by saying the work we do will be guided by your own choices and needs. You can express these in a confidential space of emotional safety and we can explore what is happening for you and better understand it. Together we can define and move towards your goals at a pace that suits and feels safe to you. I work with low mood, sadness, anxiety, depression and feelings of being overwhelmed.
I have specialisms in working with race and cultural identity and am an LGBTQ+ ally, areas where there is often little support and speaking to the right person can really help.
Welcome. It can feel difficult to start with counselling, so let me start by saying the work we do will be guided by your own choices and needs. You can express these in a confidential space of emotional safety and we can explore what is happening for you and better understand it. Together we can define and move towards your goals at a pace that suits and feels safe to you. I work with low mood, sadness, anxiety, depression and feelings of being overwhelmed.
Sophie Bell
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bradford BD10
I support a variety of clients and I am passionate about supporting those who identify as ADHD and LGBTQ+.
Choosing a therapist is a very personal decision and finding someone that you feel comfortable with is an important part of your process. I am relational, collaborative and holistic, placing value and importance in you, your story and your challenges and successes. You might be struggling with anxiety, anger or depression? Perhaps issues from your past keep resurfacing and you're looking for a way to move forward? Maybe you have noticed you feel different to the people around you? Or you might like to process an event in a safe environment with a professional?
I support a variety of clients and I am passionate about supporting those who identify as ADHD and LGBTQ+.
Choosing a therapist is a very personal decision and finding someone that you feel comfortable with is an important part of your process. I am relational, collaborative and holistic, placing value and importance in you, your story and your challenges and successes. You might be struggling with anxiety, anger or depression? Perhaps issues from your past keep resurfacing and you're looking for a way to move forward? Maybe you have noticed you feel different to the people around you? Or you might like to process an event in a safe environment with a professional?
Rachel Spence
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bramhope LS16
I am a Relate trained counsellor experienced at working with both couples and individuals. I offer a down-to-earth, forward thinking, non-directive approach. I endeavour to create a warm, non-judgemental therapeutic relationship where we can focus on you and your situation. I will work with you to understand your concerns, your deeper needs and how they are affecting your life and relationships.I see my role as supportive of your change, offering change to explore feelings and experiences in a safe, confidential space. I have worked with clients from the LGBT community and from diverse backgrounds.
I am a Relate trained counsellor experienced at working with both couples and individuals. I offer a down-to-earth, forward thinking, non-directive approach. I endeavour to create a warm, non-judgemental therapeutic relationship where we can focus on you and your situation. I will work with you to understand your concerns, your deeper needs and how they are affecting your life and relationships.I see my role as supportive of your change, offering change to explore feelings and experiences in a safe, confidential space. I have worked with clients from the LGBT community and from diverse backgrounds.
Donna Chester
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Keighley BD22
Hi, I’m so pleased I’ve reached you. Do you have a busy brain that tends to make you anxious? Do you tend to feel not good enough, and that you need fixing? Perhaps you are concerned about being misunderstood or even misgendered? I have lived experience of ADHD/Autism as a fellow AUDHDer. I can also understand the struggles that arise from being transgender or non binary. I am a mum of two who is passionate about supporting people who may be feeling they cannot cope as I know how this can manifest into anxiety and depression. If you would like to get to know, love and trust yourself and stop feeling broken, I can help.
Hi, I’m so pleased I’ve reached you. Do you have a busy brain that tends to make you anxious? Do you tend to feel not good enough, and that you need fixing? Perhaps you are concerned about being misunderstood or even misgendered? I have lived experience of ADHD/Autism as a fellow AUDHDer. I can also understand the struggles that arise from being transgender or non binary. I am a mum of two who is passionate about supporting people who may be feeling they cannot cope as I know how this can manifest into anxiety and depression. If you would like to get to know, love and trust yourself and stop feeling broken, I can help.
A. J. Farrell Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS16
I'm Andy and as a qualified person-centred counsellor, I strongly believe we all have the ability to navigate life's challenges by drawing on our own experience and capabilities. My role is to enable clients to explore whatever they choose in order to gain a deeper understanding of how it's impacting them, enabling them to create positive change. I do this through actively listening and offering useful reflections of themes I may notice, including any changes over time. I ask clients questions that encourage them to think about their experiences in new ways and never judge or lead anyone into talking about something uncomfortable.
I'm Andy and as a qualified person-centred counsellor, I strongly believe we all have the ability to navigate life's challenges by drawing on our own experience and capabilities. My role is to enable clients to explore whatever they choose in order to gain a deeper understanding of how it's impacting them, enabling them to create positive change. I do this through actively listening and offering useful reflections of themes I may notice, including any changes over time. I ask clients questions that encourage them to think about their experiences in new ways and never judge or lead anyone into talking about something uncomfortable.
Rachel Northen - Sex And Relationship Therapist
Counsellor, COSRT General
Verified Verified
Bradford BD1 (Online Only)
I specialise in male and female sexual difficulties and in relationship issues and work with couples and individuals. Sexual issues may have a physiological and/or psychological cause and include: loss of intimacy and desire, mismatched libidos, orgasm difficulties, erectile dysfunction, premature and delayed ejaculation, vaginismus, sexual pain, menopause, sexual phobia and anxiety, lack of confidence and issues with porn use. Relationship issues include: infidelity, loss of trust, communication difficulties, lack of intimacy/connection, adjusting to change, conflict, stress and anxiety, separation and different attachment styles.
I specialise in male and female sexual difficulties and in relationship issues and work with couples and individuals. Sexual issues may have a physiological and/or psychological cause and include: loss of intimacy and desire, mismatched libidos, orgasm difficulties, erectile dysfunction, premature and delayed ejaculation, vaginismus, sexual pain, menopause, sexual phobia and anxiety, lack of confidence and issues with porn use. Relationship issues include: infidelity, loss of trust, communication difficulties, lack of intimacy/connection, adjusting to change, conflict, stress and anxiety, separation and different attachment styles.
See more therapy options for Ilkley
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.