Therapy

LGBTQ Therapy

LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy


At Fighting Fear, we provide Queer-affirming online therapy that is evidence-based, compassionate, and grounded in an intersectional, culturally aware, and contextual approach. Whether you're in the UK or anywhere in the world, our services are designed to meet you where you are—emotionally and geographically.


Our team of experienced Queer and ally therapists combines lived experience with specialist training in LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy to support you with understanding, dignity, and care. We offer a range of therapeutic services online, including:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)| EMDR Therapy| LGBTQ+ Counselling| Art Therapy |Life Coaching| Qi Gong for healing

Our clinicians are skilled in working with a wide spectrum of issues, including Queer shame, internalised homophobia, gender identity, trauma, and self-acceptance.


To ensure therapy feels natural and accessible, we provide sessions in multiple languages, including French, Urdu, Hindi, Spanish, Portuguese, Romanian and Dutch.

Modes of delivery

Video call

Audio call

Synchronised text

Synchronised text session are effective and affordable, giving you the freedom to have therapy or coaching from where ever you with complete security and autonomy over your session. For a nominal price of ONLY £45 you can work with our experts including Saquib Ahmad, Bruno Conde and Owen Barlow. Research shows that synchronised text therapy is as effective as video or audio sessions. Click on their names for more info.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)


looks at how your cognitions (thoughts) and behaviours (what you do) affects your body and emotions. It helps you look at patterns of behaviours and thoughts to help you break vicious cycles. It is a short term therapy with the focus on the here and now which is informed by your past. We have a number of CBT therapists including Saquib Ahmad, Simon Lyne, Camille Allison, Joseph Holloway and Owen Barlow. Click on their names for more info. 


Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy


looks at processing distressing and dysfunctional memories to help you become desensitised to them using adaptive information you already have. EMDR uses a physiological model allowing you to lose the "sting" that comes from these traumatic memories to help you get on with your life. Though you may still remember what happened, it will not impact you in the way it did before. We have a number of EMDR therapists including Saquib Ahmad and Camille Allison. Click on their names for more info. 

Person Centred Counselling


is a non-directive therapeutic approach where the counsellor utilises the three main principles of the person centred approach; empathic understanding: the counsellor trying to understand the client's point of view, congruence: the counsellor being a genuine person and  unconditional positive regard: the counsellor being non-judgemental with the aim to help you understand, express and move on from difficulties you are or have experienced. Bruno Conde is our person centred counsellor and he is ready to support you and offers sessions in English and Portuguese. Click here for more info. 

Art Therapy


is a non-directive therapeutic approach your therapist helps you express yourself, your emotions, feelings, thoughts and other experiences through art materials. Art therapy can be very helpful for those who struggle to express themselves in words but have feelings they want to understand and process.  You do not have to be good at art AT ALL to be able to engage meaningfull in art. Our in house Art Therapist Wafa Osman who works in English and Arabic can support you in this therapeutic process. Click here for more info. 

Coaching


is a conversation which can help you achieve goals in the here and now. While therapy focuses on the past, coaching looks at the focus on the present keeping your values and goals in mind.  Our coaches are well trained, supervised and have a great deal of understanding of the Queer community we belong to. Our coaches includes Yatin Mistry and Rebecca Salama


Qi Gong


is a traditional Chinese practice focusing on holistic wellbeing. Her sessions blend gentle physical exercises, tailored to individual needs, with deep, diaphragmatic breathing and meditative techniques to harmonise mind and body. This approach enhances life energy, or "Qi", fostering relaxation and internal balance. Ideal for stress reduction and immune system support, Qi Gong classes complement conventional medical advice, offering a nurturing journey towards improved health. While beneficial, these sessions are part of a broader health regime and should be practised alongside professional healthcare guidance.


At Fighting Fear, Linda Bijtebier expertly guides our Qi Gong sessions. She is also a member of the Queer community and also offer group sssions.

About Therapy


Our therapists tailor your therapy to your specific needs, previous therapy experiences, and goals. We offer a variety of therapies, including CBT, EMDR, and person-centred counselling. Our LGBTQ+ therapy respects your identity, with its relevance in your therapy journey led by you. As experts in LGBTQ+ issues, no explanation of your Queer/LGBTQ+ identity is necessary. We provide LGBTQ+ affirming therapy.


We strive to provide the most appropriate, efficient, and effective therapy or coaching in a mode of delivery that suits you including, video call, audio call and synchronised text with some in person sessions. Recognising that not all problems are suited for therapy, and not all therapies suit every problem, we're prepared to recommend alternative support if needed.


We offer therapy in different languages including Arabic, Dutch, French, Greek, Hindi, Portuguese, Punjabi, Spanish and Urdu with languages being added as demand grows. 


For any queries or to find the right therapy or therapist for you, please contact us. We're dedicated to matching you with a therapist who can best support your needs.

Fighting Fear offers Queer LGBTQ affirming therapy in London, Manchester, Birmingham & across the UK for inclusive care

Synchronised Text sessions


We offer synchronised text therapy via Signal and our platform for an affordable rate of ONLY £45 per hour. Research shows that synchronised text therapy is as effective as video or audio sessions. Click here to book your session now.

Fighting Fear offers Queer LGBTQ affirming therapy in London, Manchester, Birmingham & across the UK for inclusive care

Our Clinicians


specialise in LGBTQ+ therapy, employing methods like CBT, EMDR, person-centred counselling, and holistic practices including Qi Gong and mindfulness. All team members are rigorously supervised, ensuring high-quality care. Each therapist is trained in specific modalities and adopts a formulation-driven approach to address individual life contexts.


Continual professional development in areas like mental health, race relations, gender identity, and sexuality is emphasised, fostering an intersectional approach to therapy. Our therapists, who are either Queer or allies, possess extensive experience and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community's needs. 

Fighting Fear offers Queer LGBTQ affirming therapy in London, Manchester, Birmingham & across the UK for inclusive care

I struggled with compulsive sexual isssues which interferred with my day to day life and happiness. Having therapy with Fighting Fear helped me understand how shame was causing me to overcompensate using sex to feel better. I now have a healthier relationship with sex and myself.

Sammy, Brussels (Belgium)

Fighting Fear offers Queer LGBTQ affirming therapy in London, Manchester, Birmingham & across the UK for inclusive care

Having CBT changed my life...Fighting Fear introduced me to CBT which got me through my phobia and can live my life the way I want to without it being restricted as it was before. 

Meral, London (UK)

Fighting Fear offers Queer LGBTQ affirming therapy in London, Manchester, Birmingham & across the UK for inclusive care

Fantastic to find a LGBT friendly therapy!

Richard, Brussels (Belgium)

Fighting Fear offers Queer LGBTQ affirming therapy in London, Manchester, Birmingham & across the UK for inclusive care

Fighting Fear is a resourceful community for those that identify as queer. I work with a therapist as well as attend workshops which I’ve found quite beneficial in accepting myself. Keep up the great work!

Humayun (Canada)

6 Reasons For Working With Our LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists


  1. They are Queer themselves and will understand your Queer / LGBTQ+ indentity and you will not need to explain what it means to be Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Trans, Non-binary, Asexual or Intersex. 
  2. They will provide a safe, non judgemental and informative environment in which you can overcome your difficulties
  3. They are specialists in their fields of expertise
  4. They recieve supervision for their practice
  5. They have overcome their own challenages of being LGBTQ+
  6. They continue to actively support our LGBTQ+ community

The Power of Therapist Matching for LGBTQ+ Individuals: Empowering Your Journey to Authenticity


Seeking therapy is a courageous step towards personal growth and mental well-being. For LGBTQ + individuals, finding a therapist who understands their unique experiences and identities can be transformative. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of therapist matching (LGBTQ+ patient with LGBTQ + therapist) and the positive impact it can have on therapy outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals. Let's dive in!

Understanding the Importance of Therapist Matching:
The LGBTQ+ community faces distinctive challenges that can significantly impact mental health. Discrimination, prejudice, and societal pressures can contribute to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. Having a LGBTQ + therapist who shares similar experiences and identities can foster a safe and inclusive environment, where individuals can openly explore their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment or misunderstanding.

Research Data on the Benefits of Therapist Matching:
Multiple studies have highlighted the positive impact of therapist matching on therapy outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals. A study published in the Journal of Counselling Psychology found that LGBTQ individuals who worked with LGBTQ+ affirming therapists reported higher levels of self-esteem, lower levels of psychological distress, and greater satisfaction with their therapy experience. Another study published in the Journal of Homosexuality revealed that LGBTQ+ individuals who received therapy from LGBTQ+ identified therapists experienced greater improvements in mental health and well-being compared to those who did not.


The Benefits of Queer LGBTQ+ Therapists:
1. Understanding and Empathy: Queer therapists possess personal insights into the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. They can provide a safe space where clients can freely express their concerns, fears, and aspirations, knowing they will be met with understanding and empathy.

Fighting Fear offers Queer LGBTQ affirming therapy in London, Manchester, Birmingham & across the UK for inclusive care
Fighting Fear offers Queer LGBTQ affirming therapy in London, Manchester, Birmingham & across the UK for inclusive care

2. Culturally Competent Care: A LGBTQ + therapist is well-versed in the specific cultural nuances and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. This knowledge allows them to tailor therapy approaches and interventions that are sensitive and relevant to the unique needs of LGBTQ+ individuals.


3. Building Trust and Rapport: Establishing trust and rapport is crucial in therapy. Working with a queer LGBTQ therapist can expedite this process, as clientsoften feel more comfortable discussing sensitive topics and exploring their identities with someone who shares similar experiences.


Motivating Individuals to Seek LGBTQ Therapy:
At Fighting Fear, we understand the significance of therapist matching for LGBTQ individuals. Our team of LGBTQ+ therapists is dedicated to providing affirming and inclusive therapy services. We strive to create a safe space where you can explore your authentic self, heal from past traumas, and build resilience for a brighter future.

Conclusion:
Therapy is a powerful tool for personal growth and healing, and finding the right therapist is essential, especially for LGBTQ+ individuals. The benefits of therapist matching are undeniable. At Fighting Fear, we are committed to empowering LGBTQ+ individuals on their journey towards authenticity and mental well-being. Take the first step today, and let us be a part of your transformative experience.

Remember, if you have any questions or concerns about our services and how we can help you then contact us today. 



Saquib Ahmad  28/07/23



#fightingfearcommunity #fightingfear #LGBTQ+ #LGBTQblog #queer #LGBTQcommunity #queercommunity #therapy #LGBTQtherapy #Queertherapy #therapistmatching

قوة المطابقة العلاجية للأفراد LGBTQ+: تمكين رحلتك إلى الأصالة


للجوء إلى العلاج خطوة شجاعة نحو النمو الشخصي والرفاهية العقلية. بالنسبة لأفراد مجتمع الميم، العثور على أخصائي نفسي يفهم تجاربهم وهوياتهم الفريدة يمكن أن يكون محورياً. في هذه المقالة، سنستكشف فوائد اختيار الأخصائي النفسي المناسب والتأثير الإيجابي الذي يمكن أن يكون له على نتائج العلاج لأفراد مجتمع الميم. دعونا نبدأ!

 

فهم أهمية اختيار الأخصائي النفسي المناسب:

يواجه مجتمع الميم تحديات مميزة يمكن أن تؤثر بشكل كبير على الصحة العقلية. التمييز، التحيز و الضغوطات المجتمعية يمكن أن تسهم في الشعور بالعزلة والقلق والاكتئاب. يمكن للأخصائي النفسي الذي يشترك في تجارب وهويات مماثلة أن يعزز من بيئة آمنة وشاملة، حيث يمكن للأفراد استكشاف أفكارهم وعواطفهم بصراحة دون الخوف من الحكم أو سوء فهم.

 

بيانات الأبحاث حول فوائد اختيار الأخصائي النفسي المناسب:

أشارت الدراسات المتعددة إلى التأثير الإيجابي لاختيار الأخصائي النفسي المناسب على نتائج العلاج لأفراد مجتمع الميم. أظهرت دراسة نشرت في مجلة علم النفس الاستشاري أن أفراد مجتمع الميم الذين عملوا مع أخصائيين نفسيين مؤكدين لمجتمع الميم أبلغوا عن مستويات أعلى من تقدير الذات ومستويات أقل من الضغط النفسي، ومزيد من الرضا عن تجربتهم العلاجية. كما كشفت دراسة أخرى نشرت في مجلة المثلية عن أن أفراد مجتمع الميم الذين تلقوا علاجًا من أخصائيين نفسيين معترف بهم من قبل مجتمع

الميم خبروا بتحسينات أكبر في الصحة العقلية والرفاهية مقارنة بأولئك الذين لم يتلقوا العلاج.


فوائد أخصائيي النفسيين مجتمع الميم:

الفهم والتعاطف: يمتلك أخصائيي النفسيين مجتمع الميم رؤى شخصية في التحديات الفريدة التي يواجهها أفراد مجتمع الميم. يمكنهم توفير مساحة آمنة حيث يمكن للعملاء التعبير بحرية عن مخاوفهم وتطلعاتهم، على العلم بأنهم سيواجهون بفهم وتعاطف

Fighting Fear offers Queer LGBTQ affirming therapy in London, Manchester, Birmingham & across the UK for inclusive care
Fighting Fear offers Queer LGBTQ affirming therapy in London, Manchester, Birmingham & across the UK for inclusive care

الرعاية المتخصصة ثقافياً: يتقن أخصائيو الميم المتخصصون تفاصيل الثقافة والتجارب الفريدة لمجتمع الميم. تسمح لهم هذه المعرفة بتخصيص أساليب العلاج والتدخلات التي تكون حساسة وملائمة للاحتياجات الفريدة لأفراد مجتمع الميم ككل (كل الثقافات و الاديان).


بناء الثقة والعلاقة: إن إقامة الثقة والعلاقة أمر حاسم في العلاج. يمكن أن يسرع العمل مع أخصائي نفسي متخصص من مجتمع الميم بهذه العملية، حيث يشعر العملاء غالباً بأنهم أكثر راحة في مناقشة المواضيع الحساسة واستكشاف هوياتهم مع شخص يشترك في تجارب مماثلة.


تحفيز الأفراد للبحث عن العلاج المتخصص لمجتمع الميم:

في "Fighting Fear "، ندرك أهمية اختيار أخصائي نفسي مناسب لأفراد مجتمع الميم. يقدم فريقنا من اخصائيي مجتمع الميم خدمات علاجية مؤكدا و شاملة للجميع. نحن نسعى لخلق مساحة آمنة حيث يمكنك استكشاف ذاتك الحقيقية، والتعافي من الصدمات الماضية، وبناء القدرة على التحمل من أجل مستقبل أكثر إشراقاً.


الختام:

العلاج هو أداة قوية للنمو الشخصي والشفاء، والعثور على الأخصائي النفسي المناسب أمر ضروري، خاصةً بالنسبة لأفراد مجتمع الميم. فوائد اختيار الأخصائي النفسي المناسب مهم جداً، في "Fighting Fear"، نحن ملتزمون بتمكين أفراد مجتمع الميم على مسارهم نحو الأصالة والرفاهية العقلية. اختر الخطوة الأولى اليوم، ودعونا نكون جزءًا من تجربتك الانتقالية.


تذكر، إذا كان لديك أي أسئلة أو مخاوف حول خدماتنا وكيفية مساعدتك، فلا تتردد في الاتصال بنا اليوم.


Remember, if you have any questions or concerns about our services and how we can help you then contact us today. 



Saquib Ahmad  28/07/23

Translated by Mohamad Khalil



#fightingfearcommunity #fightingfear #LGBTQ+ #LGBTQblog #queer #LGBTQcommunity #queercommunity #therapy #LGBTQtherapy #Queertherapy #therapistmatching

Join us


and become part of our growing global community. Fighting Fear welcomes LGBTQ+ therapists and professionals who have something to offer to our Queer community.  You can be a psychotherapist, doctor, motivational coach, cook, blogger, yoga instructor or something else. If you have something to offer Queer, then we want you! Contact us today and join our community.

Cancellation policy for therapy/supervision sessions

  • No shows are charged at 100% cost of the session
  • A late cancellation (less than 48hours notice to the session time) counts as a no show
  • More than 48hours cancellations can be rescheduled without charge
  • As we all have emergencies some times, as a good will gesture Fighting Fear will allow for 1 late cancellation for every 3months worth of therapy/supervision and will allow you to reschedule for free
  • No refunds provided for sessions, however paid sessions can be transferred to another person or go towards attendance to a Fighting Fear event (see Community tab for more info on events)
  • If payment is not made within 72 hours (3days) prior to the booked session it will be cancelled by the therapist