Claire Cotgrove, BACP

Claire Cotgrove is a UK-based counsellor who offers an affirming, person-centred approach for people navigating sexuality, gender, neurodivergence and the impacts of trauma. With three years of clinical experience and the BACP credential - membership of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy - she combines professional training with lived experience to create a compassionate, non-judgmental space for exploration and healing.

Claire specialises in work with LGBTQIA+ clients, people who have experienced coercive or abusive relationships, and those coping with shame, guilt or complex trauma. She also supports individuals with relationship and intimacy concerns, ADHD and other neurodivergent needs, helping them address issues such as attachment, abandonment, family difficulties, and the emotional consequences of illness or chronic pain. Options for creative therapeutic work are available to help people express and process difficult material in different ways.

Sessions are focused on the client and their priorities, with the counsellor walking alongside the person to foster self-understanding and growth. Claire aims to offer warmth, acceptance and practical support so people can move toward greater empowerment, clearer relationships and a stronger sense of self.

Client-Centered and Trauma-Focused Online Care

Claire uses client-centred therapy to place the individual at the heart of the work, offering an empathic, non-judgmental environment where a person’s own values and goals guide progress. This approach is helpful for those working through identity questions, relationship concerns, self-esteem challenges and life transitions.

Claire also draws on trauma-focused therapy to address the effects of abuse, coercive relationships and other traumatic experiences. This approach focuses on understanding how past events affect current feelings and behaviours, and on developing strategies to reduce distress and improve daily functioning.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Claire works collaboratively with each person to identify which methods best fit their needs, goals and preferences, and adjusts the plan as work progresses.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can take place by video call or phone, or through live chat and text-based messaging to suit different communication styles and schedules. These options make it easier to access consistent support while balancing work, family and other commitments, and allow therapists and clients to focus on meaningful change regardless of location.