Counselling

Our Counsellors

All of our counsellors are members of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or equivalent professional organisation, and work within the appropriate ethical framework.

Our lead counsellor has over 25 years experience of counselling and support, working with LGBTQ+ helplines, Samaritans, grief, bereavement, loss, life limiting and life changing illnesses etc.

How we deliver

We offer counselling sessions from our main office at the Dudson Centre in Stoke on Trent, and from several other locations in Staffordshire.

If none of these locations are convenient for you, we also offer counselling sessions via telephone and video (Teams).

Our waiting list varies with demand for the service, but it’s typically under 2 months. If you need to be seen urgently, we also offer paid counselling with a shorter wait.

LGBTQ+ Counselling

Being LGBTQ+ does not lead to mental health problems – dealing with other people’s adverse reactions does. Because of this, those who don’t identify as heterosexual are more likely to experience mental health problems.

Speaking to a counsellor can help with some of the difficulties you’re facing, such as:

• Finding it hard to accept your sexuality.
• Coping with other people’s reactions.
  Low self-esteem and low self-confidence.
• Fear of violence or abuse in public places.
• Effects of bullying and discrimination.
• Feeling as if your body does not reflect your true gender (gender dysphoria).
• Transitioning.
• If you develop a mental health condition, talking therapies can help you find new ways of coping and either overcome or manage your condition.

What’s important is for you to find a counsellor who you trust and feel able to talk to openly about your experiences.