Chemsex & LGBTQ+
Support

Integrative Counselling & Psychotherapy:

Chemsex & LGBTQ+ Affirmative Support

I offer a warm, compassionate, and non-judgemental space where you can be yourself — openly, honestly, and at your own pace. My work is person-centred and integrative, meaning I place the therapeutic relationship at the heart of the work, while drawing on different approaches to meet your individual needs.

I specialise in working with addiction, including drug and alcohol use, and I have particular experience supporting gay men and LGBTQ+ clients affected by Chemsex. I understand how difficult it can be to reach out for help, especially when shame, fear, or stigma are present. You will be met with respect, curiosity, and genuine care — not judgement.

Working with Addiction

Addiction is often misunderstood. For many people, it is not about lack of willpower or poor choices, but about survival — a way of coping with emotional pain, trauma, loneliness, or unmet needs.

In our work together, we gently explore what substances may be offering you, as well as the cost they may be having on your life.

I support clients in reconnecting with themselves, building self-compassion, and developing healthier ways of coping and relating.

Whether you are actively using, thinking about change, or already in recovery, you are welcome exactly as you are.

Understanding Chemsex

Chemsex refers to the use of specific drugs — commonly crystal meth, GHB/GBL, and mephedrone — in sexual contexts, most often among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. For many, Chemsex can initially feel like a way to experience confidence, intimacy, connection, or freedom from anxiety and self-doubt.

However, Chemsex often sits within a much wider emotional and social context.

Many gay men grow up navigating:

• Guilt and shame around sexuality and desire
  
• Internalised homophobia, shaped by rejection, bullying, or stigma
  
• Loneliness or isolation, even within social or sexual networks
  
• Difficulties with intimacy and healthy relationships, vulnerability, or sober connection   emotionally or sexually

Drugs can temporarily soften these feelings, quiet self-criticism, and make connection feel possible. Over time, however, Chemsex can deepen feelings of emptiness, shame, and disconnection, making it harder to feel close to others — or to oneself — without substances.

Risks and Impact of Chemsex

Chemsex can carry significant risks, both emotionally and physically. These may include:

Dependency and addiction
Increased anxiety, low mood, paranoia, or psychosis
Sexual health risks, including HIV and other STIs
Loss of boundaries, difficulties with consent, and emotional harm
Impact on self-worth, relationships, work, and daily life

Many people struggling with Chemsex feel isolated or afraid to speak openly due to shame or fear of being judged.

Advocacy and Support for the Gay Community

I am deeply committed to supporting and advocating for the gay community and those affected by Chemsex. My work is LGBTQ+ affirmative, trauma-informed, and grounded in an understanding of the wider cultural and societal pressures that impact gay men’s mental health.

In therapy, we may explore:

• Reducing shame and self-blame
• Understanding patterns around sex, substances, and relationships
• Developing safer, more fulfilling ways of connecting
• Strengthening self-acceptance and emotional resilience
• Rebuilding trust — with yourself and with others

I believe healing happens through compassion, understanding, and meaningful connection, not through judgment or labels.

How I Work

My approach is collaborative, gentle, and paced around you.

Therapy is a space where all parts of you are welcome, including the parts that feel messy, conflicted, or hard to talk about.

You do not need to have everything figured out before starting therapy. We can make sense of things together.

If you are struggling with Chemsex Addiction or feelings of shame and isolation, you don’t have to face it alone.