YorSexualHealth runs a free and confidential counselling service for people living within York and North Yorkshire who wish to seek support around different aspects of sexual health.
What is counselling?
Counselling provides you with somewhere safe where you can talk things through. You will always see trained staff who will not judge you, nor give you advice. You have the choice about what you want to talk about; you might want to change something, sort out a problem, or make a decision. It is about helping you to make your own choices, develop insights into your problems and finding your own resources and strengths. Talking about your feelings with someone who is not a friend or family member can free you up to see things more clearly.
Who are the counsellors?
We have two counsellors - Paul and Tracey.
Our counsellors are highly experienced professionals, both in counselling and sexual health, and are members of recognised professional associations.
What issues do you work with?
Our counsellors can work with you on issues such as:
- Effects of an STI diagnosis or sexual health concern
- Living with or affected by HIV
- Unplanned pregnancy
- Support and choices around termination of pregnancy
- Barriers to positive sexual health e.g. Self confidence, effects of alcohol or substance misuse, peer pressure, issues around condom use and other methods of contraception, online safety or sexting, difficulties around sexuality
- Survivors of sexual assault
What issues don't you work with?
Unfortunately we can't work with you on:
- Survivors of childhood or historical sexual abuse
- Erectile dysfunction and general psychosexual difficulties
- Couple therapy
- Gender identity
How long does counselling last?
Each session will last about an hour and you will be offered up to six sessions. In the initial session, you and your counsellor will discuss the issues that concern you and whether counselling is appropriate for you. There may be other types of support that may be more helpful to you, and if so, your counsellor can refer you on to the right professional.
How do I get referred?
You can self refer to counselling using this form.
Where does the counselling take place?
We offer both face to face and virtual counselling sessions. When you refer, you'll be able to discuss your individual requirements.
Sexual Health Counselling Self Referral Form
YorSexualHealth (YSH) runs a free and confidential counselling service for people living within North Yorkshire and York who wish to seek support around different aspects of sexual health.
Our counsellors are experienced professionals, both in counselling and sexual health and are members of recognised professional associations.
This service is provided from locations across North Yorkshire and York, and is available to anyone living in those areas, irrespective of whether they have been previously registered with the YorSexualHealth service.
Please note, we are not commissioned to deliver counselling for psychosexual type issues e.g. erectile dysfunction, vaginismus, pain during sex etc. In these instances, you may wish to speak to your GP or access a service such as Relate.
