Counselling in Bristol
Becca Lamb
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Bristol BS2
There are many reasons that people choose to begin therapy. For some, it is a traumatic or significant event that brings them here. For others, it might be that they feel directionless, or find themselves stuck in repetitive cycles or experiencing a disconnection or numbness. Others find themselves struggling with relationships, sexual problems or compulsive behaviour. There are no 'right' reasons for seeking help and connection, and wherever I find you I aim to meet you with warmth, empathy and authenticity. Together, I hope we can find your story in a way that makes sense to you and have space to explore new ways of being.
There are many reasons that people choose to begin therapy. For some, it is a traumatic or significant event that brings them here. For others, it might be that they feel directionless, or find themselves stuck in repetitive cycles or experiencing a disconnection or numbness. Others find themselves struggling with relationships, sexual problems or compulsive behaviour. There are no 'right' reasons for seeking help and connection, and wherever I find you I aim to meet you with warmth, empathy and authenticity. Together, I hope we can find your story in a way that makes sense to you and have space to explore new ways of being.
Joey Jenkins
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
I am an accredited BACP counsellor who is in the process of seeking accreditation as a psychotherapist. I have over 700 hours of clinical experience and work part time for a charity specialising in eating disorders, which works with the NHS. As well as that I am in private practice and work with a range of mental health issues. If you have happened upon this then you might have been struggling with something life has thrown at you, or you are simply feeling distress for seemingly no apparent reason. I’m sorry if this is the case. But you have taken an important step towards asking for help, which is commendable as well as daunting.
I am an accredited BACP counsellor who is in the process of seeking accreditation as a psychotherapist. I have over 700 hours of clinical experience and work part time for a charity specialising in eating disorders, which works with the NHS. As well as that I am in private practice and work with a range of mental health issues. If you have happened upon this then you might have been struggling with something life has thrown at you, or you are simply feeling distress for seemingly no apparent reason. I’m sorry if this is the case. But you have taken an important step towards asking for help, which is commendable as well as daunting.
Andrew Cooke
Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
Core Process Psychotherapy is built on an embodied exploration and sharing of how it is to be uniquely you. All is welcome in the room; together as therapist and client we build a bond of safety and security. By slowing down and taking some refuge from life’s momentum, we can bring awareness to each passing moment, whatever arises.
Core Process Psychotherapy is built on an embodied exploration and sharing of how it is to be uniquely you. All is welcome in the room; together as therapist and client we build a bond of safety and security. By slowing down and taking some refuge from life’s momentum, we can bring awareness to each passing moment, whatever arises.
Sara-Jane Reilly
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
I am a Bristol based Psychotherapist and CBT Practitioner. I am also an accredited ADHD Coach and I facilitate weekly Women's Circles focusing on building self-love and self-esteem.
I am a Bristol based Psychotherapist and CBT Practitioner. I am also an accredited ADHD Coach and I facilitate weekly Women's Circles focusing on building self-love and self-esteem.
Carly Read
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6 (Online Only)
Hi I’m Carly. I’m a an integrative therapist which means I don’t think there is a one size fits all approach to therapy. That said I specialise in working with children & young people, survivors of trauma and the LGBTQIA+ community. I have years of experience working with women, children and young people, having worked for respected charities like Women's Aid, The NSPCC, Kinergy and Off The Record. I’m also an artist, and a big believer in the healing and communicative power of play & creativity. I am happy to work with you in this way if you want to-though there’s no pressure to.
Hi I’m Carly. I’m a an integrative therapist which means I don’t think there is a one size fits all approach to therapy. That said I specialise in working with children & young people, survivors of trauma and the LGBTQIA+ community. I have years of experience working with women, children and young people, having worked for respected charities like Women's Aid, The NSPCC, Kinergy and Off The Record. I’m also an artist, and a big believer in the healing and communicative power of play & creativity. I am happy to work with you in this way if you want to-though there’s no pressure to.
Yotam Bezalel
MA
Verified Verified
Bristol BS8
If your soul calls for a Dynamic Therapy (emotional talks) combined with Psychodrama techniques and more... A therapy that can make a real difference in your life. You are most welcome to contact me. I am a Clinical Social Worker specialized in Trauma and Addiction Therapy and will love to be in your assistant.
If your soul calls for a Dynamic Therapy (emotional talks) combined with Psychodrama techniques and more... A therapy that can make a real difference in your life. You are most welcome to contact me. I am a Clinical Social Worker specialized in Trauma and Addiction Therapy and will love to be in your assistant.
Ben Findlay
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS2
Life can be difficult, however, there are times when difficulties and feelings become overwhelming and everything seems like a struggle. Having a capable ally alongside you who is impartial, warm and honest can be what’s needed to recognise and shift out of unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour. Living in this world can't always be safe but I believe we are meant to feel safe in our bodies and our sense of who we are. Rather than 'fixing' problems, focusing on being 'better' or even happier, we can develop our sense of security, wholeness and worth, increasing our ability to navigate life's challenges.
Life can be difficult, however, there are times when difficulties and feelings become overwhelming and everything seems like a struggle. Having a capable ally alongside you who is impartial, warm and honest can be what’s needed to recognise and shift out of unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour. Living in this world can't always be safe but I believe we are meant to feel safe in our bodies and our sense of who we are. Rather than 'fixing' problems, focusing on being 'better' or even happier, we can develop our sense of security, wholeness and worth, increasing our ability to navigate life's challenges.
Selena Reid
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting process. I believe that it is important for you to feel a positive connection with your therapist if you are to receive the most beneficial experience from Psychotherapy. I believe that the healer is within you, but I also understand that it is difficult for anyone to self heal without support. My purpose is not only to assist you with the healing process, but also to facilitate your change and growth and help you to naturally awaken your own life supporting behaviours.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting process. I believe that it is important for you to feel a positive connection with your therapist if you are to receive the most beneficial experience from Psychotherapy. I believe that the healer is within you, but I also understand that it is difficult for anyone to self heal without support. My purpose is not only to assist you with the healing process, but also to facilitate your change and growth and help you to naturally awaken your own life supporting behaviours.
Cathy Harwood
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS8
When we are bereaved it can feel as if our whole world has shattered and there is no one who understands. Whether or not our loss was expected, when someone dies it can seem as if we have been forced to walk through a door that we didn't even know was there. There is no way back. The outside world moves on fast, not realising what it's like to be left behind in a blizzard of complex feelings. People often try to cheer us up in a way that just makes us feel worse. If we have been bereaved it can be hard to talk to a parent who has their own worries, or there may simply be no words. There is no right or wrong way to grieve.
When we are bereaved it can feel as if our whole world has shattered and there is no one who understands. Whether or not our loss was expected, when someone dies it can seem as if we have been forced to walk through a door that we didn't even know was there. There is no way back. The outside world moves on fast, not realising what it's like to be left behind in a blizzard of complex feelings. People often try to cheer us up in a way that just makes us feel worse. If we have been bereaved it can be hard to talk to a parent who has their own worries, or there may simply be no words. There is no right or wrong way to grieve.
Milla Kenny
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS31
Hello, do you need space to talk? Together we can explore issues relating to bereavement, loss and grief, depression and anxiety, loneliness and isolation, low self-esteem and self-confidence, relationship issues or challenging family dynamics. I have special interest in working with bereavement, grief and loss and can help with what can be a very difficult time in your life. I gravitate towards psychodynamic approach to therapy and I will encourage you to be self-reflective, engage in self-exploration into your thoughts, feelings, emotions, experiences from early life, and the beliefs that you hold.
Hello, do you need space to talk? Together we can explore issues relating to bereavement, loss and grief, depression and anxiety, loneliness and isolation, low self-esteem and self-confidence, relationship issues or challenging family dynamics. I have special interest in working with bereavement, grief and loss and can help with what can be a very difficult time in your life. I gravitate towards psychodynamic approach to therapy and I will encourage you to be self-reflective, engage in self-exploration into your thoughts, feelings, emotions, experiences from early life, and the beliefs that you hold.
Deborah Louise Creed
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
Deborah Creed is a UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy) and AFT (Association of Family Therapy) accredited systemic psychotherapist with over ten years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults.
She has a wealth of experience working with problems such as anxiety, behaviour, eating disorders, sleep, social anxiety, bullying, or school-related problems. Deborah has worked with many clients affected by separation, divorce, trauma, or couples wanting to reconnect. Deborah offers a bespoke service to meet the needs of the client. This is a private practice. It is a highly successful and discreet place to talk
Deborah Creed is a UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy) and AFT (Association of Family Therapy) accredited systemic psychotherapist with over ten years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults.
She has a wealth of experience working with problems such as anxiety, behaviour, eating disorders, sleep, social anxiety, bullying, or school-related problems. Deborah has worked with many clients affected by separation, divorce, trauma, or couples wanting to reconnect. Deborah offers a bespoke service to meet the needs of the client. This is a private practice. It is a highly successful and discreet place to talk
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Ginny Bates
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Bristol BS16
I am an integrative humanistic counselor with over twenty-five years of counseling experience; 12 years counseling in the NHS; 9 years in private practice, My approach is relational, underpinned by person-centered principles, integrating skills from a variety of modalities. Trauma-informed practice. I am experienced working with people from diverse walks of life intersectionally. I will work to form a warm relationship with you to identify what you wish to change, and how to get there. I will discuss your preferences for how we work and decide together how to proceed. Whatever your issue, I am interested in you as an individual.
I am an integrative humanistic counselor with over twenty-five years of counseling experience; 12 years counseling in the NHS; 9 years in private practice, My approach is relational, underpinned by person-centered principles, integrating skills from a variety of modalities. Trauma-informed practice. I am experienced working with people from diverse walks of life intersectionally. I will work to form a warm relationship with you to identify what you wish to change, and how to get there. I will discuss your preferences for how we work and decide together how to proceed. Whatever your issue, I am interested in you as an individual.
River Jordan Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS2
My ideal client is an adult male from marginalized background 18-75 - Issues be racial identity, racism, microaggression, oppression, anxiety, depression, and relational issues. Work with guided self-help material within a 6 - 10 session time frame exploring their internal frame of reference and ascertaining their needs and wants if any.
My ideal client is an adult male from marginalized background 18-75 - Issues be racial identity, racism, microaggression, oppression, anxiety, depression, and relational issues. Work with guided self-help material within a 6 - 10 session time frame exploring their internal frame of reference and ascertaining their needs and wants if any.
Mike Swift
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS31
Is your life is feeling hard or painful in some way right now? Something needs to change but it feels like a mountain to climb? Feeling stuck or confused? If you choose to work with me, my promise to you is that I will offer curiosity, respect, care and compassion. Perhaps, together, we can develop new, useful perspectives. I believe that though counselling, it's always possible to find new ways to move forwards in positive directions. I look forward to hearing from you.
Is your life is feeling hard or painful in some way right now? Something needs to change but it feels like a mountain to climb? Feeling stuck or confused? If you choose to work with me, my promise to you is that I will offer curiosity, respect, care and compassion. Perhaps, together, we can develop new, useful perspectives. I believe that though counselling, it's always possible to find new ways to move forwards in positive directions. I look forward to hearing from you.
Lucie Bouchet
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS8
Not accepting new clients
"I am fascinated about Humans' ability to heal their emotional wounds when they feel supported and accompanied on their personal path. We all have greater potential and resources than we think. A lot of the times it is difficult to access these, for various reasons. Therapy helps us explore the ways we relate to ourselves and others. It is a journey towards finding / becoming yourself".
"I am fascinated about Humans' ability to heal their emotional wounds when they feel supported and accompanied on their personal path. We all have greater potential and resources than we think. A lot of the times it is difficult to access these, for various reasons. Therapy helps us explore the ways we relate to ourselves and others. It is a journey towards finding / becoming yourself".
Martha Cunningham
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS16 (Online Only)
Let me tell you a bit about me... Finding a therapist that can actually relate to you is hard, can feel exhausting at times. I know because it took me a while to find an effective therapist that understands what it's like to struggle. I hope I can be that person for you. I have an intuitive, friendly approach and will work hard to empower you to make the changes you have been looking for. I work from a person centred stance as I believe the key to lasting therapy is forming strong trusting relationships, helping you to understand yourself better.
Let me tell you a bit about me... Finding a therapist that can actually relate to you is hard, can feel exhausting at times. I know because it took me a while to find an effective therapist that understands what it's like to struggle. I hope I can be that person for you. I have an intuitive, friendly approach and will work hard to empower you to make the changes you have been looking for. I work from a person centred stance as I believe the key to lasting therapy is forming strong trusting relationships, helping you to understand yourself better.
Katie Payne
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS2
I believe that choosing counselling can be a vital and radical act of self care. The counselling relationship is like no other. I am here for you to explore what is getting in the way of feeling fulfilled. Maybe you have had difficult experiences in the past which are impacting on your present and how you see your future. Perhaps you don't feel in control of your emotional responses and wonder why they happen. Together we can figure out what is going on for you and find new ways to understand your experiences. I'm not here to fix you but to help you access hope.
I believe that choosing counselling can be a vital and radical act of self care. The counselling relationship is like no other. I am here for you to explore what is getting in the way of feeling fulfilled. Maybe you have had difficult experiences in the past which are impacting on your present and how you see your future. Perhaps you don't feel in control of your emotional responses and wonder why they happen. Together we can figure out what is going on for you and find new ways to understand your experiences. I'm not here to fix you but to help you access hope.
Jessica Murray
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS5
I am a BACP Registered Integrative Counsellor and mainly practice Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). ISTDP is an emotion-focused, trauma-informed and attachment-based approach with very positive research outcomes. Some people begin therapy clear about what they want help with, others need some assistance in understanding their difficulty. I provide a safe space for clients to better understand their behaviour and experiences by making links between the present difficulty and the past. We also work together in the session to help you explore new ways of relating to yourself and your problem.
I am a BACP Registered Integrative Counsellor and mainly practice Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). ISTDP is an emotion-focused, trauma-informed and attachment-based approach with very positive research outcomes. Some people begin therapy clear about what they want help with, others need some assistance in understanding their difficulty. I provide a safe space for clients to better understand their behaviour and experiences by making links between the present difficulty and the past. We also work together in the session to help you explore new ways of relating to yourself and your problem.
Nazeia Rani
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS16
I am a psychotherapist working with adults, children and young people in Bristol. I offer a confidential space to talk about the difficulties you might be experiencing and to explore the positive changes you can make. If you want to enhance your quality of life and important relationships, I'll be happy to meet with you and discuss how counselling or psychotherapy can help you achieve those goals.
I am a psychotherapist working with adults, children and young people in Bristol. I offer a confidential space to talk about the difficulties you might be experiencing and to explore the positive changes you can make. If you want to enhance your quality of life and important relationships, I'll be happy to meet with you and discuss how counselling or psychotherapy can help you achieve those goals.
Sarah Jane Leonard
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bristol BS3
Accredited member of the BACP: Face to face or video call. Over 16 years of experience. Relaxed and personable therapy where I Welcome you to my home or online where I offer a confidential, safe, professional, positive, supportive environment each session. I have been working in Counselling/psychotherapy for it’s my life’s passion. Let’s go back to your childhood and develop new skills to help you manage. I am down to earth and off a ray of understanding and guidance through difficult times. LGBTQ friendly.
Accredited member of the BACP: Face to face or video call. Over 16 years of experience. Relaxed and personable therapy where I Welcome you to my home or online where I offer a confidential, safe, professional, positive, supportive environment each session. I have been working in Counselling/psychotherapy for it’s my life’s passion. Let’s go back to your childhood and develop new skills to help you manage. I am down to earth and off a ray of understanding and guidance through difficult times. LGBTQ friendly.
See more therapy options for Bristol
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in Bristol
600+
Average cost per session
£60
Counsellors in Bristol who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
85% | Self Esteem |
78% | Relationship Issues |
78% | Stress |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Bereavement |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
61% | AXA PPP |
59% | Aviva |
45% | Bupa |
How Counsellors in Bristol see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
25% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in Bristol?
Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postcode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Most Psychologists in the directory are accredited members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and/or are registered in the Health and Care Professions Council (HPCP).
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in the UK. Psychologists have earned a degree in psychology and many are members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and have completed a postgraduate qualification in a specialism. Counsellors and Psychotherapists are not required to have a psychology degree, but to belong to a professional organisation such as the BACP or UKCP, they are required to have completed a training course as well as clinical and supervision hours.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the UK could be between £30 - £60 when seeing a counsellor and £60 - £150 and up when seeing a clinical psychologist. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.
If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your postcode.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the BACP, the UKCP, or BPS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there has been participation in a criminal act or act of terror, or if there is potential or known harm to the client or others, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.