LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Bournemouth, ENG

Photo of Matthew Groom, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Matthew Groom
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH8
Empathic and experienced psychotherapist and counsellor, based in the Bournemouth/Poole area. I work with individual adults of all ages and also within the LGBTQ+ community. My clients experience and bring a broad range of issues to therapy such as anxiety, identity issues, depression, relationship difficulties, and trauma. Trauma from our past often impacts our lives in the present and prevents us from moving forward or from being our authentic selves. Therapy cannot change the past, but it can enable us to move forward with increased resilience and can provide us with a solid foundation for lasting changes.
Empathic and experienced psychotherapist and counsellor, based in the Bournemouth/Poole area. I work with individual adults of all ages and also within the LGBTQ+ community. My clients experience and bring a broad range of issues to therapy such as anxiety, identity issues, depression, relationship difficulties, and trauma. Trauma from our past often impacts our lives in the present and prevents us from moving forward or from being our authentic selves. Therapy cannot change the past, but it can enable us to move forward with increased resilience and can provide us with a solid foundation for lasting changes.
020 8138 8619 View 020 8138 8619
Photo of Mandy Jane Nicholson, MBACP, Counsellor
Mandy Jane Nicholson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH1
Waitlist for new clients
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.
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 Keely Sadler, MBACP, Counsellor
Keely Sadler
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bournemouth BH1  (Online Only)
We can look at matters such as depression, anxiety, addiction, loss, relationships, sexuality (including LGBTQ+), disability and trauma.
Are you having a tough time at the moment? Is life a little overwhelming or maybe you’re struggling to find clarity in your thoughts? I know how it can be scary and a little daunting reaching out but I can help by offering you a kind, non-judgemental, therapeutic space where we can gently work together through any issues you may be experiencing. I am able to offer you short and long term therapy. My approach is person-centred, meaning that our sessions are non-directive, being led by you at your pace. I offer a free 30 minute first session to see if I'm the right match for you.
We can look at matters such as depression, anxiety, addiction, loss, relationships, sexuality (including LGBTQ+), disability and trauma.
Are you having a tough time at the moment? Is life a little overwhelming or maybe you’re struggling to find clarity in your thoughts? I know how it can be scary and a little daunting reaching out but I can help by offering you a kind, non-judgemental, therapeutic space where we can gently work together through any issues you may be experiencing. I am able to offer you short and long term therapy. My approach is person-centred, meaning that our sessions are non-directive, being led by you at your pace. I offer a free 30 minute first session to see if I'm the right match for you.
01323 396087 View 01323 396087
Photo of Karl Markwell - Addiction Counselling- Karl Markwell, Counsellor
Addiction Counselling- Karl Markwell
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bournemouth BH1  (Online Only)
Addiction can leave us feeling helpless and hopeless. We look look to rebuild the relationships we have damaged and time that we have lost. Explore the causes and solutions to the behaviours that are causing us and those we love harm. Maybe you're a friend or family member of someone suffering from addiction and would like support and guidance on how best to help your loved one? Maybe you've been to treatment for your addiction and wish to continue the work you have started, or you are in long-term recovery and need the support of someone who understands your past. Perhaps you need a therapist that specialises in LGBTQ+ issues.
Addiction can leave us feeling helpless and hopeless. We look look to rebuild the relationships we have damaged and time that we have lost. Explore the causes and solutions to the behaviours that are causing us and those we love harm. Maybe you're a friend or family member of someone suffering from addiction and would like support and guidance on how best to help your loved one? Maybe you've been to treatment for your addiction and wish to continue the work you have started, or you are in long-term recovery and need the support of someone who understands your past. Perhaps you need a therapist that specialises in LGBTQ+ issues.
023 9200 1784 View 023 9200 1784
Photo of Whitney Nyarambi, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Whitney Nyarambi
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH2
People from LGBTQ+ community, diverse ethnic groups, people with disabilities, are encouraged to work with me.
Hello my name is Whitney and I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. As we work together, I will support you in understanding and overcoming psychological difficulties. I provide therapy that is compassionate and non-judgmental. Our work together will be tailored to your needs and availability. I know that it can be really hard to reach out for support and know where to start. Therefore, I am passionate about making sure people receive the right support. If we meet, and I am not the right person to support for you, I will do my best to advise you on how to access NHS mental health services or other organisations.
People from LGBTQ+ community, diverse ethnic groups, people with disabilities, are encouraged to work with me.
Hello my name is Whitney and I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. As we work together, I will support you in understanding and overcoming psychological difficulties. I provide therapy that is compassionate and non-judgmental. Our work together will be tailored to your needs and availability. I know that it can be really hard to reach out for support and know where to start. Therefore, I am passionate about making sure people receive the right support. If we meet, and I am not the right person to support for you, I will do my best to advise you on how to access NHS mental health services or other organisations.
01202 125742 View 01202 125742
Photo of Laura Wells, MBACP, Counsellor
Laura Wells
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bournemouth BH1
Hello, do you ever find yourself stuck in loops in your head, confused or overly critical of yourself? Do you find it difficult to meet your personal goals or do too much, and become burnt out or under resourced? Do you find yourself repeating patterns that feel limiting, painful or unhelpful for you, and not know why? Do you feel disconnected in any way from your body, in relationships or from doing things that bring you joy? Would you like to reconnect with lost parts of yourself, whether desired feelings, personal interests and rewarding relationships? Would you like to know your worth, feel safer and more confident to be you?
Hello, do you ever find yourself stuck in loops in your head, confused or overly critical of yourself? Do you find it difficult to meet your personal goals or do too much, and become burnt out or under resourced? Do you find yourself repeating patterns that feel limiting, painful or unhelpful for you, and not know why? Do you feel disconnected in any way from your body, in relationships or from doing things that bring you joy? Would you like to reconnect with lost parts of yourself, whether desired feelings, personal interests and rewarding relationships? Would you like to know your worth, feel safer and more confident to be you?
01722 548964 View 01722 548964
Photo of Simon Penny - Simon Penny Counselling and Psychotherapy MBACP, MBACP, Counsellor
Simon Penny Counselling and Psychotherapy MBACP
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH8
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? Are you suffering from alcohol or substance misuse issues? Whatever you are struggling with, I would love to help. I have an open, honest and non judgemental approach to my practise and provide a safe environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings by focusing on the 'here and now.' I offer a free consultation where we discuss your needs and the best approach to help you lead a happier life. This is a key part of the process. I believe that with the right support, everyone can make a positive change to their lives.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? Are you suffering from alcohol or substance misuse issues? Whatever you are struggling with, I would love to help. I have an open, honest and non judgemental approach to my practise and provide a safe environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings by focusing on the 'here and now.' I offer a free consultation where we discuss your needs and the best approach to help you lead a happier life. This is a key part of the process. I believe that with the right support, everyone can make a positive change to their lives.
07782 359122 View 07782 359122
Photo of Jo Sharkey, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Jo Sharkey
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH6
I am an accredited, integrative therapeutic counsellor, finding that working in this way, gives uniqueness with each client, connecting in a way that is best suited to them as an individual. I have extensive experience, working with a variety of clients, of all ages.
I am an accredited, integrative therapeutic counsellor, finding that working in this way, gives uniqueness with each client, connecting in a way that is best suited to them as an individual. I have extensive experience, working with a variety of clients, of all ages.
01202 013935 View 01202 013935
Photo of Tim Coupland, MBACP, Counsellor
Tim Coupland
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bournemouth BH6  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I am a BACP qualified counsellor/ therapist and registered mental health nurse. I provide talking therapies in a safe, confidential, and accepting way. I believe anyone can fulfil their potential and live a happier life, but sometimes things get in the way - life can feel hard with many obstacles that, at times, can feel too difficult to tackle.
Hello, I am a BACP qualified counsellor/ therapist and registered mental health nurse. I provide talking therapies in a safe, confidential, and accepting way. I believe anyone can fulfil their potential and live a happier life, but sometimes things get in the way - life can feel hard with many obstacles that, at times, can feel too difficult to tackle.
01747 440486 View 01747 440486
Photo of Genevieve Smith - Gsscounselling, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Gsscounselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH6
Hi my names Gen, I specialise in anxiety, relationships and low self esteem counselling. If you feel that you are struggling with any of theses issues or just need someone to talk to, I can help you to explore these things and look at how we can move forward and work through them. We will take the time to explore what you have been dealing with and look at different ways of how therapy can help you. I will listen to your needs and adapt our sessions so that you feel comfortable enough to discuss anything you’d like too.
Hi my names Gen, I specialise in anxiety, relationships and low self esteem counselling. If you feel that you are struggling with any of theses issues or just need someone to talk to, I can help you to explore these things and look at how we can move forward and work through them. We will take the time to explore what you have been dealing with and look at different ways of how therapy can help you. I will listen to your needs and adapt our sessions so that you feel comfortable enough to discuss anything you’d like too.
01425 209305 View 01425 209305
Photo of Abby Orchard, MBACP, Counsellor
Abby Orchard
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH7
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 Andrea Karina Johnstone, Counsellor
Andrea Karina Johnstone
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH8
Is your life very overwhelming and challenging at times? Do you feel sometimes out of control and lost? Do you suffer from trauma? I help you find place within yourself which is untouched by the chaos. Within our therapeutic relationship, we explore together how life is for you. I provide a confidential,non-judgemental safe space. I will help you develop your relationship with yourself, to raise your self-esteem and well being. You are the master of your own ship, I will work with you to find your way. I am a yoga teacher and meditation facilitator, and qualified life coach which can help you in your healing process.
Is your life very overwhelming and challenging at times? Do you feel sometimes out of control and lost? Do you suffer from trauma? I help you find place within yourself which is untouched by the chaos. Within our therapeutic relationship, we explore together how life is for you. I provide a confidential,non-judgemental safe space. I will help you develop your relationship with yourself, to raise your self-esteem and well being. You are the master of your own ship, I will work with you to find your way. I am a yoga teacher and meditation facilitator, and qualified life coach which can help you in your healing process.
01202 057101 View 01202 057101
Photo of Dr Anna Hames, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Anna Hames
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH1  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 20 years of experience in the NHS and private practice. I have particular expertise in working with young people, and with professionals. My particular areas of specialism are working with: 1) Young people and families living with illness and physical health problems 2) Young people who are developing aspects of their self-identity, including gender identity and sexuality and 3) Health care professionals who have experienced workplace trauma and/or burnout. Please see my website for more information - www.yppsychology.com.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 20 years of experience in the NHS and private practice. I have particular expertise in working with young people, and with professionals. My particular areas of specialism are working with: 1) Young people and families living with illness and physical health problems 2) Young people who are developing aspects of their self-identity, including gender identity and sexuality and 3) Health care professionals who have experienced workplace trauma and/or burnout. Please see my website for more information - www.yppsychology.com.
View
Photo of Camilla Poncia, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Camilla Poncia
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH9
I enjoy working with young people and adults alike. I have been told by past clients that I am open, honest and friendly, which are qualities that all clients have valued. I like to problem solve and am a very logical and practical person. Having lived in several different countries, I have developed a good understanding of a range of issues for people from different cultures and backgrounds. I like to ask questions and truly get to know someone and never assume to know better. My clients are always the experts in their lives and I see myself as a guide to help them navigate to a calmer place.
I enjoy working with young people and adults alike. I have been told by past clients that I am open, honest and friendly, which are qualities that all clients have valued. I like to problem solve and am a very logical and practical person. Having lived in several different countries, I have developed a good understanding of a range of issues for people from different cultures and backgrounds. I like to ask questions and truly get to know someone and never assume to know better. My clients are always the experts in their lives and I see myself as a guide to help them navigate to a calmer place.
01202 037285 View 01202 037285
Photo of Heloise Saunders, MBACP, Counsellor
Heloise Saunders
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH7
I imagine you find yourself here because you are struggling with something and it is becoming increasingly difficult to manage this alone. Perhaps anxiety is ruling your life or relationships are strained. Sometimes a traumatic event or painful past experiences bring everything into sharp focus. In reaching out you are listening to that voice within that is telling you all is not well. The therapy I offer will attend to this. Together we will explore your challenges and what might be realised within your struggle as potential and possibility.
I imagine you find yourself here because you are struggling with something and it is becoming increasingly difficult to manage this alone. Perhaps anxiety is ruling your life or relationships are strained. Sometimes a traumatic event or painful past experiences bring everything into sharp focus. In reaching out you are listening to that voice within that is telling you all is not well. The therapy I offer will attend to this. Together we will explore your challenges and what might be realised within your struggle as potential and possibility.
01202 125322 View 01202 125322
Photo of Kasia Stankiewicz, MSc, CPsychol, Psychologist
Kasia Stankiewicz
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH3
I strongly believe that in order to provide the best possible psychological help there is a need to build tailored, high-quality programmes for each and every client. I offer a bespoke approach with a strong focus on discretion, privacy and confidentiality.
I strongly believe that in order to provide the best possible psychological help there is a need to build tailored, high-quality programmes for each and every client. I offer a bespoke approach with a strong focus on discretion, privacy and confidentiality.
01202 037409 View 01202 037409
Photo of Vicki Pearson, MBACP, Counsellor
Vicki Pearson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bournemouth BH8
Hello, thank you for viewing my profile. I am a qualified and experienced adult and young person’s counsellor. I offer a warm, safe, and confidential space where I aim to raise your self-awareness and facilitate change and improvements in your life. During your therapy, I may incorporate techniques from different modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, and Neuroscience models. The therapy is always tailored and centred around you, and we work at your pace.
Hello, thank you for viewing my profile. I am a qualified and experienced adult and young person’s counsellor. I offer a warm, safe, and confidential space where I aim to raise your self-awareness and facilitate change and improvements in your life. During your therapy, I may incorporate techniques from different modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, and Neuroscience models. The therapy is always tailored and centred around you, and we work at your pace.
01202 125535 View 01202 125535
Photo of Sarah Scott, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Sarah Scott
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH9
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.
View
Photo of Sue Cassidy, MBACP, Counsellor
Sue Cassidy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH4  (Online Only)
I am an experienced Humanistic counsellor and am passionate about the positive changes therapy can bring. Sometimes our lives become overwhelming, complicated and confusing and problems get bottled up. A skilled listener can help you explore your thoughts, behaviours and emotions to help gain understanding, insight and clarity. This can lead to more positive choices, renewed resilience and feeling more in control again. I believe that the counsellor/client relationship is at the heart of successful therapy, so I aim to establish a warm, trusting, safe and non-judgemental space where you feel confident to express your concerns.
I am an experienced Humanistic counsellor and am passionate about the positive changes therapy can bring. Sometimes our lives become overwhelming, complicated and confusing and problems get bottled up. A skilled listener can help you explore your thoughts, behaviours and emotions to help gain understanding, insight and clarity. This can lead to more positive choices, renewed resilience and feeling more in control again. I believe that the counsellor/client relationship is at the heart of successful therapy, so I aim to establish a warm, trusting, safe and non-judgemental space where you feel confident to express your concerns.
01747 449974 View 01747 449974
Photo of Mandy Heath, BACP, Counsellor
Mandy Heath
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bournemouth BH9
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

See more therapy options for Bournemouth

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.