We’re Now Offering Counselling – and You’re Invited to Talk it Through, Your Way
e’re really pleased to announce that The Eddystone Trust is now offering a brand-new counselling service, designed to support people who are navigating life with or around HIV, chemsex, or issues related to sexual health, identity, and wellbeing.
This is something we’ve wanted to offer for a long time. Over the years, we’ve had countless conversations with people who’ve told us they wish they had someone to talk to in a space that feels safe, inclusive, and free from judgement. So, we’ve made it happen.
“Everyone deserves the chance to be heard—especially when things feel messy or uncertain,” says our lead counsellor, Gemma Wootten (MBACP). “This service is about giving people that space, without pressure or expectation. Just a chance to be yourself, talk things through, and feel supported.”
Why Counselling?
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Whether you're adjusting to an HIV diagnosis, trying to understand your relationship with chemsex, questioning your identity, or simply feeling stuck—our counselling service is here for you.
You don’t need to be in crisis. You don’t have to have the ‘right’ words. You just need to be open to the idea that things could feel better with a bit of help.
What to Expect
This is a confidential, one-to-one service led by you. You set the pace. You decide what to talk about.
We're proudly LGBTQIA+ affirmative, and our counsellors have experience working with people exploring gender, sexuality, intimacy, shame, stigma, grief, and more.
“People sometimes think their problem isn’t ‘big enough’ to bring to counselling,” says Gemma. “But honestly, if something’s on your mind—no matter how small it seems—it’s valid. This space is for you.”
Topics You Might Explore
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Living with HIV or getting used to a recent diagnosis
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Chemsex and the thoughts, emotions or behaviours around it
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Relationships, sex, intimacy and identity
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Shame, stigma, or a feeling that you can’t be your full self
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Grief, loss, or trauma
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Big life changes or periods where everything feels stuck
If you’re unsure if it’s right for you, that’s OK—just get in touch and we’ll talk it through.
How it Works
We offer:
- Online counselling via Microsoft Teams/Zoom – flexible, private, and easy to access
- In-person sessions where possible – discreet and held in a safe, welcoming space
- Sessions last around an hour and cost £65. Payment is required 48 hours in advance.
You don’t need to commit straight away—we’re happy to answer any questions before you begin.
Meet Gemma – Our Lead Counsellor
Gemma Wootten is a fully qualified, BACP-registered counsellor with specialist training in HIV counselling. She works with adults (18+) across a wide range of issues, and her approach is calm, grounded, and totally client-led.
“I’m here to walk alongside people, not tell them what to do,” she says. “Counselling isn’t about fixing you—it’s about creating space to figure out what’s going on and how you want to move forward.”
Ready to Reach Out?
If you’re interested in counselling with us, here’s how to get started:
Email: counselling@eddystone.org.uk
Or fill out the enquiry form on our website: Counselling at The Eddystone Trust
We’ll talk you through the next steps and answer any questions you might have.
One Final Thought...
You don’t need to go through it alone. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, confused, or just ready for change—our counselling service is here to support you in a way that feels right for you.
We’re really proud to be launching this service. And we’d love to hear from you if you think it might help.