D&G LGBT Plus Free Counselling, Support and Alternative Therapies
Everyone deserves a space where they can be heard, understood, and supported without judgement. At D&G LGBT Plus, we offer free, confidential Counselling and Support Services to LGBTQ+ people and their families across Dumfries and Galloway. Our aim is simple: to help you feel safe, valued, and empowered to move forward in your own way.
What Is Our 1‑2‑1 Counselling?
Our 1‑2‑1 Counselling service provides a private, therapeutic space where you can explore whatever is on your mind with a trained counsellor who understands the unique experiences of LGBTQ+ people.
What you can expect:
What We Cover in 1‑2‑1 Counselling
Counselling is a therapeutic space led by a trained counsellor. It focuses on your inner world, your emotions, thoughts, experiences, and the patterns that shape your wellbeing.
Identity & Self‑Acceptance
Understanding who you are, navigating labels, or exploring gender and sexuality in a safe, affirming space.
Coming Out
The emotions, fears, hopes, and practical considerations around sharing your identity with others.
Relationships & Connection
Family dynamics, friendships, romantic relationships, boundaries, and healthy communication.
Mental & Emotional Wellbeing
Stress, anxiety, low mood, overwhelm, grief, loneliness, or feeling "stuck" in life.
Past Experiences
Difficult memories, discrimination, bullying, or trauma you want to process in a safe environment.
Life Transitions
Moving, changing jobs, starting or ending relationships, or navigating new stages of your journey.
Self‑Esteem & Confidence
Building a stronger sense of self-worth and resilience.
Loneliness & Isolation
Navigating feelings of disconnection, social withdrawal, or the sense of being “stuck” in your current circumstances.
What Is Our Support Service?
Not everyone needs counselling. Sometimes what you need is practical help, emotional support, or someone to walk alongside you as you navigate life's challenges. That's where our Support Service comes in.
Our support can include:
But not limited to these areas
Support focuses on what you need right now, whether that's someone to talk to, help navigating systems, or a friendly face to walk alongside you.
Where We Meet
Our support workers meet you where you are, literally and emotionally. We can meet in person in Dumfries, Newton Stewart, and Stranraer, online, or by phone—whatever feels right for you.
Other locations can and are used for 1-2-1 meetings if available space is located that suits the meeting and you feel safe
Why We Do This
Living in a rural region can make it harder to find LGBTQ+‑affirming spaces and support. Our team is here to make sure no one feels alone or unseen. Whether you're questioning your identity, dealing with a difficult time, or simply looking for someone who "gets it," we're here for you.
Ready to Reach Out?
If you or someone you know could benefit from counselling or support, the D&G LGBT Plus team is only a message away. You deserve to feel supported, respected, and connected.
Contact Us TodayWhat We Cover in Support
Support is practical, social, and emotional help from trained staff or volunteers. It focuses on what you need day‑to‑day to feel safe, connected, and empowered.
1‑2‑1 Emotional Support
A friendly, understanding space to talk things through without judgement.
Social Connection
Helping you meet people, join groups, or feel part of the wider community.
Reducing Isolation
Regular check‑ins, meeting in person, or helping you build confidence to attend events.
Practical Help
Signposting to services, filling in forms, accessing healthcare, or navigating systems.
Advocacy
Supporting you to speak up for your needs or accompanying you to appointments.
Support for Families and Partners
Helping loved ones understand and navigate LGBTQ+ issues.
Short‑term Crisis Support
Staying connected and helping you find stability when things feel overwhelming.
Exploring Identity in a Non‑Clinical Way
Talking through questions or uncertainties without needing therapy.
Support is flexible, person‑centred, and shaped around what will help you feel more grounded and connected right now.
The Simple Difference
Counselling
Deeper emotional and therapeutic exploration with a trained counsellor.
Support
Practical help, emotional check‑ins, social connection, and guidance.
Both services are free, confidential, and LGBTQ+‑affirming
Many people use both at different times depending on what they need.
We're Here For You
Whether you need counselling, support, or you're not sure which is right for you, reach out and we'll help you find the right path forward.