LGBTQ+ Counselling in West London, London

Photo of Dr Jonathan Smy-Aristizabal, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jonathan Smy-Aristizabal
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1W
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Chartered Psychologist who works in a trauma informed and LGBTQ+ affirmative manner. I strongly believe in the importance of offering an empathic and non-judgmental space. I am passionate about helping people build emotional resilience and raise self-awareness to allow them to reconnect to their values and sense of purpose.
I am a Chartered Psychologist who works in a trauma informed and LGBTQ+ affirmative manner. I strongly believe in the importance of offering an empathic and non-judgmental space. I am passionate about helping people build emotional resilience and raise self-awareness to allow them to reconnect to their values and sense of purpose.
020 3823 6961 View 020 3823 6961
Photo of Steven Curic - Steven Curic MBACP Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Steven Curic MBACP Psychotherapeutic Counsellor
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
West London, London W2
I am a fully qualified Psychotherapeutic Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor and Accredited/Registered member of BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and Prof/Accred member of NCPS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society). I am also a BUPA Recognised and Fee Assured Mental Health and Well-being Practitioner and registered as a Health Provider with Nuffield Health, Aviva, AXA PPP and Vitality. My work experience includes working with minority, multicultural, neurodiverse and LGBTQ+ clients and the provision of Gender, Sexuality & Relationship Diversity (GSRD) affirmative therapy.
I am a fully qualified Psychotherapeutic Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor and Accredited/Registered member of BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and Prof/Accred member of NCPS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society). I am also a BUPA Recognised and Fee Assured Mental Health and Well-being Practitioner and registered as a Health Provider with Nuffield Health, Aviva, AXA PPP and Vitality. My work experience includes working with minority, multicultural, neurodiverse and LGBTQ+ clients and the provision of Gender, Sexuality & Relationship Diversity (GSRD) affirmative therapy.
020 8129 6867 View 020 8129 6867
Photo of M Fok, MA, BACP, Counsellor
M Fok
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W1T  (Online Only)
I specialise in providing empathetic & informed counselling for those within the LGBTQIA+ community, focusing on issues related to LGBT+ & gender transitioning.
Do you ever feel as though you're constantly climbing a steep slope, battling simply for the right to be yourself? As a non-binary and gender transitioning specialist counsellor, I am both a member of the LGBT+ community and an ethnic minority in the UK, I have a profound and personal understanding of what it's like to face non-acceptance, exclusion, and disapproval—not just occasionally, but on a daily basis. These experiences can deeply shake one's sense of self and place in the world, often resulting in profound feelings of isolation and a pervasive sense of being misunderstood.
I specialise in providing empathetic & informed counselling for those within the LGBTQIA+ community, focusing on issues related to LGBT+ & gender transitioning.
Do you ever feel as though you're constantly climbing a steep slope, battling simply for the right to be yourself? As a non-binary and gender transitioning specialist counsellor, I am both a member of the LGBT+ community and an ethnic minority in the UK, I have a profound and personal understanding of what it's like to face non-acceptance, exclusion, and disapproval—not just occasionally, but on a daily basis. These experiences can deeply shake one's sense of self and place in the world, often resulting in profound feelings of isolation and a pervasive sense of being misunderstood.
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Photo of Salvo La Rosa, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Salvo La Rosa
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W1W
I specialize in working with stress and trauma, working with neurodivergent people and LGBTQ+ people.
My name is Salvo La Rosa and I am a qualified integrative psychotherapist, EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. Whatever your wound or life struggle, I will offer a calm and professional space to help you navigate through your current circumstances and towards a direction that is true and right for you. I would work with you to understand where you'd like to get to and to help you build on your own resilience and resources. I work in a compassionate way with the legacy of the past and to assist you as you expand your coping skills and achieve more and more of your qualities and potential.
I specialize in working with stress and trauma, working with neurodivergent people and LGBTQ+ people.
My name is Salvo La Rosa and I am a qualified integrative psychotherapist, EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. Whatever your wound or life struggle, I will offer a calm and professional space to help you navigate through your current circumstances and towards a direction that is true and right for you. I would work with you to understand where you'd like to get to and to help you build on your own resilience and resources. I work in a compassionate way with the legacy of the past and to assist you as you expand your coping skills and achieve more and more of your qualities and potential.
020 3984 9536 View 020 3984 9536
Photo of Erinn T. Brown, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Erinn T. Brown
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W1G
Limited spaces available • I specialize in working with clients experiencing difficulties with self-esteem, assertiveness, childhood relational trauma, exploration of sexual orientation and gender, and ADHD. I work frequently with individuals who identify with the LGBTQ+, gifted, and neurodivergent communities. Using an integrative approach tailored to the needs of each individual, I strive to help my clients understand and find practical ways to cope with their challenges. I primarily draw upon person-centred, psychodynamic, and solution-focused approaches to therapy in my work.
Limited spaces available • I specialize in working with clients experiencing difficulties with self-esteem, assertiveness, childhood relational trauma, exploration of sexual orientation and gender, and ADHD. I work frequently with individuals who identify with the LGBTQ+, gifted, and neurodivergent communities. Using an integrative approach tailored to the needs of each individual, I strive to help my clients understand and find practical ways to cope with their challenges. I primarily draw upon person-centred, psychodynamic, and solution-focused approaches to therapy in my work.
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Photo of Ryan Powell, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Ryan Powell
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W1S
I specialize in anxiety and depression; however I am experienced with LGBTQ+ clients, addictions, relationship issues, eating disorders and much more.
I am trained in both couple’s therapy and individual therapy and also offer Supervision. As an Integrative Counsellor, I am here to walk beside you on your journey. My approach is empathetic and compassionate; however I will challenge my clients to help them achieve their goals. I have worked within the NHS and now within a university conducting short term solution focused therapy. I have created a successful private practice and I want the sessions to focus on my clients needs. I will provide the platform for you to discuss what you need to discuss and the safety of a confidential, caring and warm space.
I specialize in anxiety and depression; however I am experienced with LGBTQ+ clients, addictions, relationship issues, eating disorders and much more.
I am trained in both couple’s therapy and individual therapy and also offer Supervision. As an Integrative Counsellor, I am here to walk beside you on your journey. My approach is empathetic and compassionate; however I will challenge my clients to help them achieve their goals. I have worked within the NHS and now within a university conducting short term solution focused therapy. I have created a successful private practice and I want the sessions to focus on my clients needs. I will provide the platform for you to discuss what you need to discuss and the safety of a confidential, caring and warm space.
020 4538 8657 View 020 4538 8657
Photo of Alan Wardle, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Alan Wardle
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1W
I am a gay man and have particular expertise in working with LGBT+ clients, both for individuals and those in relationships. You may be coming to therapy with a specific challenge – work, relationships, your identity – or because something in your life doesn’t feel right. We will look at patterns of behaviour which are causing problems and see how past experiences impact you today. I aim to offer a safe and non-judgmental space to work with you to make sense of your life. Therapy is a partnership – we will work together to make meaning of what’s going on and help bring about changes in your life
I am a gay man and have particular expertise in working with LGBT+ clients, both for individuals and those in relationships. You may be coming to therapy with a specific challenge – work, relationships, your identity – or because something in your life doesn’t feel right. We will look at patterns of behaviour which are causing problems and see how past experiences impact you today. I aim to offer a safe and non-judgmental space to work with you to make sense of your life. Therapy is a partnership – we will work together to make meaning of what’s going on and help bring about changes in your life
020 8016 2791 View 020 8016 2791
Photo of Wilson Gallego Hoyos, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Wilson Gallego Hoyos
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
West London, London W1W
Not accepting new clients
At this point, I am offering Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy with a special interest in LGBTQ+ people.
We tend to consider our sexuality when it’s not how we expect it. Feelings of shame, inadequacy or guilt permeate how we see ourselves and affect our relationships. We wonder about professional help and who to go to. Should we go on our own or with our partners? I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience and a sex-positive stance. I have an MSc and PhD from University College London, where I taught in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Currently, I am interested in sexuality, relationships and LGBTQ+ issues.
At this point, I am offering Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy with a special interest in LGBTQ+ people.
We tend to consider our sexuality when it’s not how we expect it. Feelings of shame, inadequacy or guilt permeate how we see ourselves and affect our relationships. We wonder about professional help and who to go to. Should we go on our own or with our partners? I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience and a sex-positive stance. I have an MSc and PhD from University College London, where I taught in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Currently, I am interested in sexuality, relationships and LGBTQ+ issues.
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Photo of Cesar Azevedo - Cesar Azevedo - LGBTQ Counselling , MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Cesar Azevedo - LGBTQ Counselling
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W1B  (Online Only)
LGBTQ+ counsellor working with clients who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans and queer.
I’m a qualified therapist experienced in supporting individuals who identify as LGBT+ in addressing issues connected with self-esteem, self-worth and acceptance. I can help you address issues that are causing you emotional pain, giving you cause for concern, or making you feel uncomfortable. Whether you may be confronting difficult situations, facing challenging decisions, or healing from old wounds. My style is to encourage clients to speak in openness and confidence about difficult topics and emotions.
LGBTQ+ counsellor working with clients who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans and queer.
I’m a qualified therapist experienced in supporting individuals who identify as LGBT+ in addressing issues connected with self-esteem, self-worth and acceptance. I can help you address issues that are causing you emotional pain, giving you cause for concern, or making you feel uncomfortable. Whether you may be confronting difficult situations, facing challenging decisions, or healing from old wounds. My style is to encourage clients to speak in openness and confidence about difficult topics and emotions.
020 3974 2381 View 020 3974 2381
Photo of Dan Jones, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Dan Jones
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W1W
I have an intentionally LGBTQ-affirmative approach.
I trained as an Integrative Counsellor at the Minster Centre in London. Being integrative means that I draw on several different therapeutic approaches. These may include ways to help us to make sense of your current patterns of relating to others and yourself in terms of past experiences; It may involve ways to understand how painful memories can be locked away in your body. I also bring an appreciation of the socio-political context in which we live, and the impact of structural oppression, particularly on people with minoritised experience.
I have an intentionally LGBTQ-affirmative approach.
I trained as an Integrative Counsellor at the Minster Centre in London. Being integrative means that I draw on several different therapeutic approaches. These may include ways to help us to make sense of your current patterns of relating to others and yourself in terms of past experiences; It may involve ways to understand how painful memories can be locked away in your body. I also bring an appreciation of the socio-political context in which we live, and the impact of structural oppression, particularly on people with minoritised experience.
020 3828 7672 View 020 3828 7672
Photo of Dr Christopher Cartner, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Christopher Cartner
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W8
I am a gay therapist, providing a safe non-judgemental space for those of all sexualities. I have a background in both the NHS and private sector. I have worked with people experiencing depression, stress, anxiety, trauma and concerns with sexuality and sexual health. I have worked with those who have experienced trauma across the lifespan, meaning I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, and traumatic incidences, in both adult life and childhood. I specialise in sexuality, chemsex, trauma, sexual health and LGBT+ affirmative therapy. More details of my work experience can be found on my website.
I am a gay therapist, providing a safe non-judgemental space for those of all sexualities. I have a background in both the NHS and private sector. I have worked with people experiencing depression, stress, anxiety, trauma and concerns with sexuality and sexual health. I have worked with those who have experienced trauma across the lifespan, meaning I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, and traumatic incidences, in both adult life and childhood. I specialise in sexuality, chemsex, trauma, sexual health and LGBT+ affirmative therapy. More details of my work experience can be found on my website.
020 3872 2472 View 020 3872 2472
Photo of Ali Milton-Doyle, MBACP, Counsellor
Ali Milton-Doyle
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West London, London W1G
I have many years’ experience with LGBTQ+ issues, and work particularly with addiction and trauma.
Hi, I'm Ali. Since you’ve found your way to this page, you’re most likely struggling with something in your life, and may be looking for some help with coping. Feelings and situations in life can be overwhelming and talking to an experienced professional can help you to sort out the jumble and make sense of what’s happening, and what you need. In our counselling sessions, we can talk about whatever is on your mind right now. I'm caring, calm, empathic and easy to talk to. I've seen how counselling can transform the way we think, manage relationships and make decisions about our lives.
I have many years’ experience with LGBTQ+ issues, and work particularly with addiction and trauma.
Hi, I'm Ali. Since you’ve found your way to this page, you’re most likely struggling with something in your life, and may be looking for some help with coping. Feelings and situations in life can be overwhelming and talking to an experienced professional can help you to sort out the jumble and make sense of what’s happening, and what you need. In our counselling sessions, we can talk about whatever is on your mind right now. I'm caring, calm, empathic and easy to talk to. I've seen how counselling can transform the way we think, manage relationships and make decisions about our lives.
020 3763 1744 View 020 3763 1744
Photo of Martin Phillip Edwards, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Martin Phillip Edwards
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W4
Hello I'm Martin and I offer a safe and confidential space should you be facing any kind of challenge . I believe that counselling and psychotherapy can help us understand our selves more and encourage us to look at ourselves differently . I have experience of working with a range of issues including anxiety, depression and addiction. I have a Particular interest in working with LGBT+ clients and currently work at the Terrence Higgins Trust which specialises in working with gay male clients. I am a registered member of the BACP and receive regular supervision from a qualified supervisor. I hold a PGDip in Psychotheraputic Counseling
Hello I'm Martin and I offer a safe and confidential space should you be facing any kind of challenge . I believe that counselling and psychotherapy can help us understand our selves more and encourage us to look at ourselves differently . I have experience of working with a range of issues including anxiety, depression and addiction. I have a Particular interest in working with LGBT+ clients and currently work at the Terrence Higgins Trust which specialises in working with gay male clients. I am a registered member of the BACP and receive regular supervision from a qualified supervisor. I hold a PGDip in Psychotheraputic Counseling
07480 485213 View 07480 485213
Photo of Peter Donnelly, MSc, BACP, Counsellor
Peter Donnelly
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W5
I am an LGBTQ+ member, and enthusiastic ally for other queer folk.
I am person-centred therapist with experience in supporting people going through a range of confusion and distress. This can include: anxiety and stress, family and relationship difficulties, sexuality and gender identity, low mood, loss, feeling stuck, and self esteem. Therapy can hopefully offer you a space to explore and connect with your true self. A reconnecting which in itself often helps to reduce tension and anxiety. We will work together with whatever you bring to therapy and gently explore your individual process as we go. I work online and outdoors (Fermanagh, NI).
I am an LGBTQ+ member, and enthusiastic ally for other queer folk.
I am person-centred therapist with experience in supporting people going through a range of confusion and distress. This can include: anxiety and stress, family and relationship difficulties, sexuality and gender identity, low mood, loss, feeling stuck, and self esteem. Therapy can hopefully offer you a space to explore and connect with your true self. A reconnecting which in itself often helps to reduce tension and anxiety. We will work together with whatever you bring to therapy and gently explore your individual process as we go. I work online and outdoors (Fermanagh, NI).
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Photo of Deirdre MacGinley, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Deirdre MacGinley
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
West London, London W14  (Online Only)
I have over 40 years’ life experience of being a member of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as working with heterosexual people in different capacities.
Do you feel frightened that your world might fall apart if you look at your sexuality or gender? Maybe you have thoughts going round and round in your head, and feel like you’ve lost track of perspective. Maybe you: don't like sex/like sex 'too much' /wrong kind of sex? Your gender doesn't fit with other people's idea of you. You may feel you are betraying your family, children or culture by expressing yourself. You may believe that what’s inside you is too shocking, or wrong or too much for the people around you. You may feel like there’s no-one you can talk to, which can be very isolating.
I have over 40 years’ life experience of being a member of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as working with heterosexual people in different capacities.
Do you feel frightened that your world might fall apart if you look at your sexuality or gender? Maybe you have thoughts going round and round in your head, and feel like you’ve lost track of perspective. Maybe you: don't like sex/like sex 'too much' /wrong kind of sex? Your gender doesn't fit with other people's idea of you. You may feel you are betraying your family, children or culture by expressing yourself. You may believe that what’s inside you is too shocking, or wrong or too much for the people around you. You may feel like there’s no-one you can talk to, which can be very isolating.
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Photo of Sophie Amoni, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Sophie Amoni
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
West London, London W1F  (Online Only)
Hello,I am committed to providing psychotherapy in a non-judgemental ,safe and confidential environment. I work with IFS ( Internal Family System ) and EMDR .I am experienced therapist with many years of helping clients making sense of their emotions and difficulties.I am an LGBTQ+, POC & Poly friendly therapist.Psychotherapy provides a safe, regular, reliable and confidential space in which to explore life's problems and past traumas.Change becomes possible and a range of different choices can be made possible. We can see how the past impacts the present and work together with compassion and acceptance towards healing .
Hello,I am committed to providing psychotherapy in a non-judgemental ,safe and confidential environment. I work with IFS ( Internal Family System ) and EMDR .I am experienced therapist with many years of helping clients making sense of their emotions and difficulties.I am an LGBTQ+, POC & Poly friendly therapist.Psychotherapy provides a safe, regular, reliable and confidential space in which to explore life's problems and past traumas.Change becomes possible and a range of different choices can be made possible. We can see how the past impacts the present and work together with compassion and acceptance towards healing .
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Photo of Marek Sarnecki, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Marek Sarnecki
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West London, London W1T
I have an extensive experience in working with and supporting the LGBTQ+ community and their unique life challenges like coming out, internalised homophobia, self-esteem issues and other day-to-day struggles.
My name is Marek and I am a Psychotherapist and a Sex and Relationship Therapist who works in a private practice and in a higher education institution in London. I believe therapy helps people to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships to become free of old patterns, or simply find ways to process pain or memories that have kept them feeling stuck. I strongly believe that we simply repeat what we don't repair. I have a heart and a passion for the work I do in creating effective change. My clinical experience includes working for: NHS, a community counselling services, and a suicidal respite centre.
I have an extensive experience in working with and supporting the LGBTQ+ community and their unique life challenges like coming out, internalised homophobia, self-esteem issues and other day-to-day struggles.
My name is Marek and I am a Psychotherapist and a Sex and Relationship Therapist who works in a private practice and in a higher education institution in London. I believe therapy helps people to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships to become free of old patterns, or simply find ways to process pain or memories that have kept them feeling stuck. I strongly believe that we simply repeat what we don't repair. I have a heart and a passion for the work I do in creating effective change. My clinical experience includes working for: NHS, a community counselling services, and a suicidal respite centre.
020 3962 2243 View 020 3962 2243
Photo of Miles Chinnachart Poola-Or, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Miles Chinnachart Poola-Or
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W2  (Online Only)
Whether you are BAME, LGBTQIA+, an immigrant, an international student who is struggling to find their place in the UK, a high achieving individual who feels you’re not enough, couples who are experiencing challenges due to cultural and lifestyles differences, or an individual who is striving for personal growth, I am here to help you along the way.
As a therapist, I believe our personal experiences have a profound impact on how we perceive and interact with the world around us. We receive messages on how we should live our lives, and we learn to accommodate those messages in hopes to "fit in" with society. As an Asian gay man and being sent to boarding school, I understand the challenges of living authentically while also trying to honour the norms, values, and expectations of the community you come from.
Whether you are BAME, LGBTQIA+, an immigrant, an international student who is struggling to find their place in the UK, a high achieving individual who feels you’re not enough, couples who are experiencing challenges due to cultural and lifestyles differences, or an individual who is striving for personal growth, I am here to help you along the way.
As a therapist, I believe our personal experiences have a profound impact on how we perceive and interact with the world around us. We receive messages on how we should live our lives, and we learn to accommodate those messages in hopes to "fit in" with society. As an Asian gay man and being sent to boarding school, I understand the challenges of living authentically while also trying to honour the norms, values, and expectations of the community you come from.
020 3823 6238 View 020 3823 6238
Photo of Ameda Blades, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Ameda Blades
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
West London, London W2  (Online Only)
I'm of dual nationality and work in a BAME and LGBTQIA+ affirmative way.
The modality that I use is person-centred and experiential however I draw from a broad range of theoretical perspectives to work in an integrative way. I work in a sex and body positive way, this includes working with those who work in the sex industry. The majority of my working life has been working with individuals who have experienced personal and vicarious trauma or those who live or work in a chaotic and traumatic environment. When working with dissociative identity disorder as a presentation double length sessions (100 minutes) are available. SCID-D assessments, diagnosis and treatments plans offered.
I'm of dual nationality and work in a BAME and LGBTQIA+ affirmative way.
The modality that I use is person-centred and experiential however I draw from a broad range of theoretical perspectives to work in an integrative way. I work in a sex and body positive way, this includes working with those who work in the sex industry. The majority of my working life has been working with individuals who have experienced personal and vicarious trauma or those who live or work in a chaotic and traumatic environment. When working with dissociative identity disorder as a presentation double length sessions (100 minutes) are available. SCID-D assessments, diagnosis and treatments plans offered.
01825 705362 View 01825 705362
Photo of Dr Sarah Enderby, PhD, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Dr Sarah Enderby
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West London, London W1W
You may be coming to counselling because you are in crisis, unable to see a way through a situation or feeling lost or alone. You might be seeking the 'right' answer around a difficult life decision. It may have taken many years to find the courage to seek help for issues which run deep, perhaps stemming from difficult, early experiences in childhood or from trauma. I specialise in working with self esteem and anxiety, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ folks, however, everybody is welcome.
You may be coming to counselling because you are in crisis, unable to see a way through a situation or feeling lost or alone. You might be seeking the 'right' answer around a difficult life decision. It may have taken many years to find the courage to seek help for issues which run deep, perhaps stemming from difficult, early experiences in childhood or from trauma. I specialise in working with self esteem and anxiety, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ folks, however, everybody is welcome.
01844 391117 View 01844 391117

See more therapy options for West London, London

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.