Tara Murphy

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MA, BA (hons), FdA, PGCE, CHE, MBACP,
Accepting new clients
Accepting new clients

This professional is available for new clients.

location_on Newtown SY16 & Richmond TW9
Accepting new clients
Accepting new clients

This professional is available for new clients.

About me

Our therapy sessions are tailored to meet your unique needs and experiences, providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore, heal, and grow.  Whatever your journey, I am here to walk alongside you with empathy, expertise, and unwavering support.

Therapy sessions address a wide range of issues, including:

  • Gender dysphoria and Identity exploration
  • LGBTQI+ counselling and psychotherapy
  • Family Issues, Couples therapy,
  • Attachment exploration, psychology and interpersonal relationships. Abandonment, trauma, fear, disappointment and pain.
  • Good Sex, Bad Sex, Sex problems, Affairs 
  • 'Coming out' and mental health
  • Self-acceptance, Self-Awareness and Personal Development
  • Suicide, Suicidal thoughts and ideations. 
  • Navigating non-monogamous relationships, polyamory, & multi-partner dynamics
  • Addressing stigma, internalized shame, & societal judgment
  • Exploring sex work & the complexities of prostitution
  • Managing puberty & its impact on gender, sexual identity & relationships
  • Understanding & navigating menopause in the context of identity, sex &  relationships. Feminism, being female and feminine identity in menopause.
  • Healing from relationship trauma & managing boundaries
  • Supporting healthy sexual expression
  • Resolving sexual difficulties and differences
  • Enhancing intimacy, trust, & communication in relationships
  • Unpacking the intersections of faith, culture, & sexuality
  • Exploring asexuality, demisexuality, & other diverse orientations
  • Navigating life transitions, such as marriage, separation, or co-parenting
  • Addressing the impact of childhood experiences & family dynamics on identity & relationships
  • Feeling Sad, low self confidence, panic attacks, PTSD or Addiction. 
  • Exploring relationship anarchy & other non-traditional relationship models
  • Working through experiences of abuse, betrayal, trauma or infidelity
  • Building confidence 
  • Alcoholism, Alcoholics, drugs and other additions
  • Eating disorders bulimia, binge eating, purging, anorexia, body image and identity.
  • Dissociation and dissociative disorder
  • Perfectionism  
  • Loneliness self and relationships
  • Anxiety, Depression & love with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. 
  • Empowerment in dating & sexual relationships
  • Supporting individuals questioning or exploring kink & BDSM
  • Separation and Divorce

I am the founder/owner and lead of www.GSRD.co.uk. I am part of an inclusive and affirming team specialising in Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diversity. My mission is to empower individuals and professionals alike through therapy and education that celebrates unique identities, belonging and experiences; whilst also working through aspects of their lives they may be holding them back. I am not only successful in my theraputic practice with clients I also train those wanting to become a counsellor. I am a University Lecturer teaching groups of trainee counsellors on a Master's Degree in Psychotherapeutic Practice: Humanistic (which includes lessons on Person-Centred, EFT, CBT, ACT, Ecotherapy, Carl Rogers, Eugene Gendlin, Gestalt, neuroscience, human behaviour, emotional responses, supervision, existential, Transactional Analysis, and loads more).  

Gender expressions are the many ways people show who they are on the outside, reflecting their sense of self on the inside. These expressions might align with, or challenge, what society traditionally expects based on gender, and they encompass the rich variety of ways we dress, move, and present ourselves to the world. They tell a story about identity, individuality, and the courage it can take to be seen authentically.

Sexuality is a deeply personal and unique part of who we are, encompassing how we experience love, attraction, intimacy, and connection. It is a journey of self-discovery, expression, and belonging that is as diverse as humanity itself. Not something that is static but may change over time with experiences, meeting new people or through personal growth, self-reflection, and evolving understanding of oneself. It is influenced by culture, environment, and the relationships we build, making it a dynamic and ever-changing aspect of our identity.

Relationships encompass the vast and beautiful variety of connections people form with one another, celebrating the rich complexity of human connection. Diverse relationships go beyond traditional norms and societal expectations, embracing the uniqueness of every bond—whether in partnerships, families, or friendships. Rooted in mutual respect, understanding, and authenticity, these connections are built on the values and needs of the individuals involved, rather than conforming to rigid structures or stereotypes.

Inclusive Therapy for Individuals, Relationships and Couples:
Whether you are navigating questions around gender identity, exploring your sexuality, or redefining your relationship structures, we are here to support you.

For therapists and counsellors, we offer dynamic CPD courses designed to deepen your understanding of GSRD topics. Our workshops provide practical tools, grounded in queer theory, geek therapy, psychoanalysis, psychology and evidence-based practices like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, to enhance your work with LGBTQIA+ clients.

Whether you are seeking therapy or professional development, our online and accessible services create a safe, affirming space to explore, learn, and grow. Together, we will celebrate diversity and create meaningful change.

Training, qualifications & experience

Dedicated to Therapeutic Excellence in Gender, Sexuality, and Relationships; Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Therapy. 

Counselling and Psychotherapy 

I bring a wealth of experience, training, and dedication to the unique challenges of Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diversity (GSRD). With a strong foundation in therapeutic practice, academic teaching, and business leadership, I am passionate about creating affirming spaces for clients and professionals alike.

Professional Experience in GSRD-Related Issues

  • University Lecturer: Teaching postgraduate Master's courses in psychotherapy, focusing on humanistic approaches that align with inclusive and diverse therapeutic practices. Lecturing on Gestalt therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Attachment-Based therapy, Relational Emotional Therapy, Psychoanalytic therapy. 
  • Specialist Mentoring: Supporting neurodiverse students, including those navigating the intersection of gender, sexuality, and disability, to achieve academic and personal success.  Worked for many years with students who have Autism, ADHD and other learning differences. 
  • Specialist Mentoring Mental Health: Mental health disabilities encompassing a range of conditions that can significantly impact a person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Extensive work with Bipolar, self-harm, Anxiety, Depression, Panic attacks, Psychosis, Trauma.
  • Stress Workshops: Creating, coordinating and facilitating professional development days and theraputic groups around stress (work, family, life, children, relationships, chronic illness, sleep, exposure to news or social media, loneliness, conflict)
  • Private Practice Counselling: Integrative Counselling providing therapy for individuals and couples on a very wide variety of topics.
  • Mental Health Consultancy: Designing and delivering workshops addressing mental health, diversity, and inclusion within higher education and professional settings.
  • Equality and Diversity Advocacy: Leading initiatives to create inclusive policies and environments for LGBTQIA+ individuals in educational and therapeutic contexts.
  • Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre: For the first four years I started my counselling career as a Counsellor in a rape and sexual abuse crisis centre. In this centre I worked with Adults and Children 1:1

Educational Achievements

  • MA Equality and Diversity in Society: A foundation for understanding societal and individual dynamics of inclusion, with a distinction-level focus on practical applications for marginalized groups.
  • PGCE Post-Compulsory Education: Combining teaching expertise, learning and lesson design, adult learning, reflective practice, exploring theories of education, this supports my live of life long learning and supporting diverse learners in their educational journeys.
  • Counselling and Therapy Qualifications: Advanced training in therapeutic modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based stress reduction, and trauma-informed care.
  • BACP accredited FdA Degree in Integrative Counselling
  • BA (Hons) Social Care Studies
  • BA (Hons) Environmental Studies
  • CHE Health Science
  • CHE Business Management

Specialised GSRD Training

  • Exploring Sexuality and Gender Identity in Higher Education
  • Non-Binary: Understanding Unique perspectives 
  • Understanding Autism and ADHD in Diverse Contexts
  • BACP CPD: Post-COVID Mental Health Support
  • Intersexed: Inclusion, Diversity and Equality
  • Working with Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Trauma
  • Navigating Non-Traditional Relationships, including Polyamory and Kink

Recognitions and Awards

  • Open University Business Creators Fund Winner 2024
  • UnLtd Social Enterprise Award 2023-2024

Approach and Expertise
My training and professional background equip me to address a wide spectrum of Gender Sexuality Relationship related issues, including:

  • Gender identity exploration and dysphoria
  • Sexual orientation and coming-out journeys
  • Relationship diversity, including polyamory, relationship anarchy, and non-monogamy
  • Supporting sex workers and addressing stigma
  • Navigating transitions such as puberty and menopause in the context of identity
  • Trauma recovery and boundary management in relationships
  • All stories and experiences are welcome; with none too unconventional, bold, wild, extraordinary or beyond imagination. 
  • If your story feels like one that is rarely shared, I genuinely can not wait to hear it.

With years of experience in direct client work, academic settings, and service development, I am committed to providing high-quality, inclusive therapy and training. My approach is grounded in empathy, evidence-based practice, and a deep understanding of the complexities of GSR issues.

Member organisations

BACP
British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP)

BACP is one of the UK’s leading professional bodies for counselling and psychotherapy with around 60,000 members. The Association has several different categories of membership, including Student Member, Individual Member, Registered Member MBACP, Registered Accredited Member MBACP (Accred) and Senior Registered Accredited Member MBACP (Snr Acccred). Registered and accredited members are listed on the BACP Register, which shows that they have demonstrated BACP’s recommended standards for training, proficiency and ethical practice. The BACP Register was the first register of psychological therapists to be accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA). Accredited and senior accredited membership are voluntary categories for members who choose to undertake a rigorous application and assessment process to demonstrate additional standards around practice, training and supervision. Individual members will have completed an appropriate counselling or psychotherapy course and started to practise, but they won’t appear on the BACP Register until they've demonstrated that they meet the standards for registration. Student members are still in the process of completing their training. All members are bound by the BACP Ethical Framework and a Professional Conduct Procedure.

Accredited register membership

British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy
Accredited Register Scheme

The Accredited Register Scheme was set up in 2013 by the Department of Health (DoH) as a way to recognise organisations that hold voluntary registers which meet certain standards. These standards are set by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).

This therapist has indicated that they belong to an Accredited Register.

British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy

Areas of counselling I deal with

Other areas of counselling I deal with

We provide affirming, non-judgmental support for diverse experiences, including:

  • Identity Exploration: Navigating the complexities of gender identity and sexual orientation, including non-binary, transgender, queer, asexual, and aromantic experiences.
  • Life Transitions: Supporting individuals through key life stages such as puberty, menopause, and post-transition adjustments, with a focus on identity and well-being.
  • Sexual Health and Intimacy: Exploring concerns around sexual expression, confidence, and overcoming difficulties in sexual relationships.
  • Non-Traditional Relationships: Providing guidance on polyamory, relationship anarchy, open relationships, and multi-partner dynamics, including communication, boundaries, and managing jealousy.
  • Stigma and Shame: Helping clients address and overcome societal stigma, internalised shame, and discrimination related to their identities or relationship choices.
  • Trauma Recovery: Supporting individuals who have experienced trauma related to gender, sexuality, or relationships, including intimate partner violence or societal marginalisation.
  • Sex Work and Identity: Offering a safe space to discuss the complexities of sex work and its intersections with identity, relationships, and mental health.
  • Cultural and Faith-Based Challenges: Navigating conflicts between cultural or religious values and personal identities or relationships.
  • Parenting and Family Dynamics: Supporting LGBTQIA+ parents, co-parenting arrangements, and family challenges related to coming out dr transitioning.

We believe in celebrating the diversity of human experience and providing tailored, empathetic support for every journey. Whether you are seeking guidance, healing, or empowerment, we are here to help you thrive.

Therapies offered

Photos & videos

Fees

£80.00 per session
Free initial telephone or online session

Additional information

Courage brought you here today, Should you reach out and I will honor that courage by giving you a place where your voice is valued, your journey is supported, and your truth is safe.

Myself and my team believe that investing in your mental health, well-being, identity and self-worth is one of the most important steps you can take. Below, you will find a breakdown of our therapy costs, designed to be clear and transparent. Whether you are looking for individual support, couples therapy, relationships, or specialist sessions for Gender, Sexuality, and Relationships, where your story finds its voice.

Contact on: Email

Website: www.GSRD.co.uk

Individual Therapy

Cost: £80 per session
Duration: 60 minutes

Work one-on-one with a compassionate therapist to explore your challenges, set goals, and develop tools for personal growth and well-being. Sessions are available online, offering flexibility and privacy.

Couples and Relationship Therapy

Cost: £80 per session
Duration: 60 minutes

Cost: £120 per session

Duration: 90 minutes (90 minutes is recommended for client sessions with more than one person) Focused support for couples, partnerships, clusters including non-traditional relationship dynamics such as polyamory, friendships, sexual relationships, asexual or queerplatonic partnerships. Strengthen communication, build trust, and navigate challenges together.

Payment Options

We accept payment via bank transfer, credit/debit card, or PayPal. Payment is due before each session. 

Cancellation Policy

We kindly ask for 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule a session. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice may be charged at the full session rate.

Package Deals or Discounts: Packages for booking multiple sessions upfront or special rates for long-term clients.

When I work

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
Morning
Afternoon
Evening
Night

Our sessions are booked on the hour, every hour, to ensure consistency and allow you to plan your time effectively. Appointments are available during our standard working hours.

Further information

Commitment to Continuous Professional Development
Our dedication to lifelong learning ensures that we stay at the forefront of GSRD-focused therapy and education. Our team regularly engages in advanced training and CPD activities to refine our skills and knowledge in areas such as:

  • Intersectionality in Therapy: Addressing how race, culture, disability, and socio-economic factors intersect with gender, sexuality, and relationships.
  • Queer Theory and Practice: Applying cutting-edge theories to create affirming and inclusive therapeutic approaches.
  • Neurodiversity and Identity: Understanding the interplay between neurodivergence (such as Autism and ADHD) and gender and sexual identity development.
  • Relational Depth and Presence: Building authentic, deeply connected therapeutic relationships.
  • Experience in Community and Advocacy Work

Beyond therapy and teaching, our work extends to community engagement and advocacy, where we have:

  • Delivered workshops on diversity and inclusion for schools, universities, and workplaces.
  • Contributed to policy development around equality and accessibility in educational and therapeutic spaces.
  • Supported marginalized groups through tailored mental health initiatives, including LGBTQIA+ youth programs and adult support groups.
  • Focus on Innovation and Accessibility
  • We pride ourselves on creating services that are not only affirming but also accessible and forward-thinking.

Our therapy and training offerings include:

  • Online and Hybrid Sessions: Flexible options for therapy and workshops to meet the needs of individuals and professionals worldwide.
  • Tailored Resources: Including handbooks, guided exercises, and evidence-based tools to support growth and understanding.
  • Inclusive Practices: A commitment to fostering safe spaces for all, including clients and students from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
  • Holistic and Trauma-Informed Approach

Our approach integrates a deep understanding of how trauma, societal pressures, and systemic inequalities shape identity and relationships. We focus on:

  • Helping clients heal from trauma while embracing their authentic selves.
  • Supporting self-empowerment and resilience in the face of discrimination and marginalization.
  • Guiding individuals and professionals to build affirming, respectful, and meaningful connections.

Who We Support
Our services are tailored for:

  • Individuals seeking therapy for personal growth, healing, or exploration of their identity.
  • Couples navigating relationship challenges, including non-traditional dynamics.
  • Professionals wanting to deepen their knowledge and practice in GSRD through training and CPD.
  • Educators, employers, and community leaders looking to create inclusive environments.
  • This comprehensive expertise allows us to meet the needs of individuals and professionals across diverse contexts, providing impactful and transformative support.

Beauty Spot, 22 Broad Street, Newtown, Powys, SY16 2NA

Activ Ltd, 1 Union Court, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 1AA

Type of session

Online
Phone
Home visits

Types of client

Children (0-12)
Young people (13-17)
Young adults (18-24)
Adults (25-64)
Older Adults (65+)
Couples
Families
Groups
Organisations
Employee Assistance Programme

Key details

DBS check info

In England and Wales, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS, formerly known as CRB) carry out criminal records checks for individuals working with vulnerable groups, such as children. To find out more, visit gov.uk , or contact this professional directly

Wheelchair user access info
Wheelchair user access

Wheelchair-accessible premises should have step-free access for wheelchair users and individuals who are unable to climb stairs. If a Counsellor's premises aren't step-free, they may offer alternative services such as telephone/web-based appointments, home visits, or meeting clients in different location, so you can choose the option that suits you best.

You can contact the Counsellor to discuss the options available.

Under the Equality Act 2010 service providers have a duty to make reasonable adjustments to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access their service. You can read more about reasonable adjustments to help you to access services on the CAB website.

Sessions are delivered online, providing personalized support that’s accessible to everyone, offering the ease, convenience, and comfort of your own space.

Online platforms

Skype
Zoom
VSee
Doxy
Microsoft Teams
Whatsapp
Google Meet
Discord
FaceTime
Power Diary
Webex
Therasee
Bilateral Base