BSL Counselling is precisely what it is; our Counsellors and Psychotherapists are either deaf or come from a deaf background, such as a child of a deaf adult who can sign fluently.
We meet you with respect,, empathy, and understanding, focusing on your actual lived experience, trying to see the world through your eyes, taking into account what is going on internally, and considering the effect of outside influences.
If you are struggling, get in touch with our friendly team.
Enquiries
Self-Referral
Bridging the Gap
Traditional mental health services often miss the unique needs of Deaf people. We’re different. We understand the challenges that come with navigating a hearing world.
Our BSL counsellors go beyond addressing common issues like depression and anxiety. We provide specialised mental health support that genuinely understands your experiences as a Deaf person.
Read more
We know that being Deaf is just one part of who you are. Your cultural background and life experiences are equally important. That’s why we carefully match you with a BSL counsellor who understands your needs and empathises with your journey.
This personalised approach helps build a strong connection and trust with your counsellor, creating a safe and effective space for you to explore your feelings and work towards your goals
Free Funding: Oral & BSL Counselling
We can apply for specialist deaf-focused counselling in most parts of Wales for individuals who prefer counselling in BSL.
Excluding: Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, which uses interpreters.
Applications can be made if clients are over 18 and live in Wales.
Application Process
Upon showing interest in our oral deaf & BSL counselling services, clients are promptly scheduled for an assessment session within seven days.
This initial meeting is crucial, as it allows us to grasp each client’s unique challenges and needs, fostering an environment of empathy and understanding and a step towards therapeutic progress.
Post-assessment, our dedicated team is responsible for applying for free funding on the client’s behalf.
This process is managed meticulously to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience for our clients and free them from additional administrative burdens.
Counselling sessions are typically scheduled to begin within 12 weeks of assessment and approval (this can vary by Health Board). We aim to provide a supportive, empathetic, and practical counselling experience through this funding and our services. We are committed to assisting deaf individuals in their emotional healing, resilience, and empowerment journey.
Self-Paying: Accessible and Prompt Oral Deaf & BSL Counselling
Opting for self-pay means you can commence your counselling journey typically within a week, offering immediate support when you need it most. Furthermore, for those awaiting free funding approval, self-pay provides an opportunity to start counselling without delay, ensuring continuity of care and support.
Read more
In line with our mission to deliver exceptional counselling, we are acutely aware of the importance of affordability.
Self-paid clients within the UK can take advantage of specialist counselling.
To make our services more accessible, we have substantially subsidised our self-paid plans. This approach reflects our deep commitment to making BSL counselling available to a broader audience, irrespective of financial circumstances.
Our subsidised rates are designed with your needs in mind: an introductory session for £50, followed by a package of three sessions for £180. These rates are set to reduce financial pressure for our clients.
We firmly believe financial constraints should not hinder accessing the vital support and guidance necessary for managing mental health issues. We aim to enable more individuals to benefit from our professional, empathetic, and specialist counselling services.
Through this self-pay option, we strive to make a meaningful and positive impact on the lives of deaf people by offering them the support they need at an affordable and accessible price.
Understanding the Unique Spectrum of Deaf Challenges
We understand that life as a Deaf person can be challenging. It’s not just about dealing with depression or anxiety. We get it. We know that navigating a hearing world can create unique experiences and difficulties that affect your mental well-being.
Our Deaf counsellors are experts in understanding these challenges. We’re here to support you with all aspects of your mental health in a way that genuinely respects your Deaf identity.
Read more
Being Deaf in a hearing world comes with its own set of challenges. It’s not just about communication. It’s about navigating daily life, dealing with misunderstandings, and overcoming barriers that others may not even see.
These experiences can be frustrating and emotionally draining. They can affect your confidence, your relationships, and your overall well-being. You might feel isolated, misunderstood, or have to fight harder for the same opportunities.
Our Deaf counsellors understand this deeply. We know what it’s like to face these challenges because we’ve lived them ourselves. We see the whole picture – not just the anxiety or low mood, but the experiences and frustrations that contribute to it.
In our sessions, we’ll explore these root causes together. We’ll create a safe space where you can express yourself freely in BSL, share your experiences, and work towards feeling empowered and understood. We’re here to support you on your journey every step of the way.
Counselling for Caregivers: Support and Understanding for Those Who Care
We know that supporting a Deaf loved one can be rewarding and challenging. As a caregiver, you play a vital role in their life, but it’s important to look after your well-being, too.
Read more
Caring for someone can be emotionally and practically demanding. You might experience a range of emotions:
- Stress and exhaustion: Juggling your responsibilities can be tiring.
- Isolation: You might feel like others don’t understand your challenges.
- When caring for a loved one, guilt, frustration, or worry are common feelings.
- Difficulties balancing your life: Caring can take up much time and energy.
Our Deaf and hearing carer counsellors understand the unique challenges faced by caregivers in the Deaf community. We offer a safe and supportive space where you can:
A Commitment to Empowerment and Understanding
At our core, we’re committed to empowering Deaf individuals and their families through oral and BSL counselling. We believe in providing specialist support that genuinely understands the Deaf experience.
Read more
We recognise the unique challenges you face navigating a hearing world. Our BSL counsellors go beyond addressing surface-level issues, delving into the root causes of your concerns. We offer a safe space to explore feelings, build resilience, and achieve goals.
Here’s what makes our BSL counselling service stand out:
- Deaf counsellors who understand: We provide support from people who genuinely get it.
- Personalised approach: We tailor our sessions to your individual needs and experiences.
- Focus on empowerment: We help you build confidence and navigate your journey with resilience.
- Accessible for all: We offer flexible funding options to make our services available to everyone.
Our commitment goes beyond just offering counselling. We’re here to champion your strengths, celebrate your potential, and support you on your journey to well-being.
Mobile
01932881849
Referral Forms
Self-Pay
Carers
Referrals
Organisations
Real stories, real impact. See how BSL counselling has made a difference in the lives of Deaf individuals and their families.
Below, you’ll find inspiring stories from people in the Deaf community who have benefited from our specialised support. They share their journeys, the challenges they’ve overcome, and how our service has helped them thrive.
These testimonials highlight the power of connecting with a counsellor who truly understands your experiences. They demonstrate the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative impact of empathetic, accessible mental health care.
Our Specialist Services
Click to Select
Specialist BSL Counselling & Psychotherapy
BSL Counselling is precisely what it is; our Counsellors and Psychotherapists are either deaf themselves or come from a deaf background, such as a child of a deaf adult who can sign fluently.
We meet you with respect and empathy & understanding, focusing on your actual lived experience, trying to see the world through your eyes, taking into account what is going on internally, as well as considering the effect of outside influences.
If you are struggling, get in touch with our friendly team.
Paying Yourself
♣ Start Counselling almost immediately (14+)
♣ No waiting lists or reports
♣ £50 introduction session
♣ £180 Saverplan (3 sessions)
Free Funding
♣ Applications 18+
♣ Most Regions in Wales
♣ BSL or Hearing Loss
♣ Free Assessment Session
♣ Managed Application
Why Choose DisabilityPlus?
Our Counsellors & Psychotherapists are driven to support their own community; this is not a job for them. It’s their passion. This is what makes us specialists; we do not use interpreters or rely on your family to talk for you.
Here are a few benefits of BSL counselling with DisabilityPlus.
⇒ Specialist Acreditated & Registered Counsellors & Psychotherapists.
⇒ You can choose a counsellor who is Deaf, Oral Deaf or Hearing; it’s your choice.
⇒ Our Counselling comes from Lived Experiences, not a Text Book or Training Course.
⇒ Video Counselling to ensure you can connect with specialists wherever you live.
Moving Towards a Brighter Future
We know that most people we see do not have mental health conditions; they have emotional stressors & issues subjected to accessibility, discrimination, limited opportunities, physical, neurological conditions & relationships in general.
These are key issues many deaf people face on a daily basis.
Emotional support: We can provide emotional support to individuals with hearing loss and their families. The counsellor can provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to express your feelings and concerns.
Coping skills: Counselling can help you develop coping skills to deal with the challenges of living in a hearing world. Coping skills can include stress management techniques, problem-solving strategies, and self-care practices.
Relationship and communication skills: We can help you develop better communication and relationship skills. This can improve relationships with family members, friends, and caregivers.
Self-esteem and self-confidence: Counselling can help you improve your self-esteem and self-confidence. This can lead to a better sense of self-worth and a more positive outlook on life.
Goal-setting and motivation: We can help you set realistic goals and develop strategies to achieve them. This can provide motivation and a sense of purpose.
Education and information: Counselling can provide you with information and available resources.
Easy Access
Contact us if you would like to ask some questions
Make a Referral
Self-paid, free funding applications & organisations
How we support you
♣ Coping with the rollercoaster of society’s challenges & perceptions
♣ Exploring your feelings & thoughts
♣ Understanding of how difficulties may have developed
♣ Coping with different emotions
♣ Concerns about memory and changes in thinking
♣ Dealing with distress and trauma
♣ Concerns about relationships
♣ Setting realistic aspirations for the future
Questions you may wish to ask
How?
What to expect? Your counsellor will understand the issues you may be facing. Each person is different; however, in BSL Counselling, common themes are discussed.
Therapy—We usually offer counselling that supports resolutions of your current issues and future planning. Some people prefer a longer, more profound form of psychotherapy. We support both modes of counselling.
When can I start counselling? If you pay for sessions, therapy generally starts within a fortnight. If you want NHS funding, we would make an application following a free assessment session.
No NHS funding application is guaranteed to be successful, and the timeframe is usually between 8 and 12 weeks.
We pride ourselves on providing safe and compassionate Disability Focused Counselling where all individuals, regardless of cultural, gender or sexual identity, can receive equitable mental health services and support.
So, if you’re struggling in any way right now, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Self-paying
Private pay clients can choose the focus, duration, and frequency of therapy.
Clients are even allowed to choose the length of sessions. Research shows that clients who have to pay something for their treatment have more positive outcomes than those who receive free treatment.
Individuals can start their Counselling almost immediately.
No waiting lists or reports are being sent to GPs. It’s Confidential.
Pricing
We heavily discounted our session fees for the general public, enabling them to access counselling easily and at an affordable price.
Session Fees for 50 minutes:
♣ Initial Session £50
♣ Pay as you go £70
♣ Saver3 £180 (3 Sessions)
Free funding
Usually, your GP will refer you to the local mental health service if you ask for support.
DisabilityPlus, though can apply for specialist BSL counselling
Talk to us to see if you qualify for a free funding application or self-refer to start the funding process.
If applying for free funding, the first session is free.
This session is an assessment; it’s the foundation to enable us to make the application with a first-class treatment plan specific to you or the client.
Free funding applications are based on your complex needs & exceptional circumstances.
Free funding cannot be guaranteed, and every case is based on merits.
Our Specialist Services
Click to Select
Oral & BSL Counselling for Deaf Adults & Teenagers
Oral Speaking & BSL Counselling
BSL Counselling is precisely what it is; our Counsellors and Psychotherapists are either deaf themselves or come from a deaf background, such as a child of a deaf adult who can sign fluently.
We meet you with respect empathy & understanding, focusing on your actual lived experience, trying to see the world through your eyes, taking into account what is going on internally, as well as considering the effect of outside influences.
If you are struggling, get in touch with our friendly team.
Bridging the Gap
Traditional mental health services often miss the unique needs of Deaf people. We’re different. We understand the challenges that come with navigating a hearing world.
Our BSL counsellors go beyond addressing common issues like depression and anxiety. We provide specialised mental health support that genuinely understands your experiences as a Deaf person.
Tailored Cultural Matching
We know that being Deaf is just one part of who you are. Your cultural background and life experiences are equally important. That’s why we carefully match you with a BSL counsellor who understands your individual needs and can truly empathise with your journey.
This personalised approach helps build a strong connection and trust with your counsellor, creating a safe and effective space for you to explore your feelings and work towards your goals
Common Challenges We Support you with
⇒ Chronic Pain
⇒ Abelism/ Discrimination
⇒ Insomnia
⇒ Eating Issues
⇒ Worries about the future
⇒ Financial Strain
⇒ Employment Issues
⇒ Communication
⇒ Carer Problems
⇒ Physical Challenges
⇒ Memory Retention
⇒ Social Isolation
⇒ Healthcare Challenges
⇒ Access to Services
Mental Health Issues We Work with Daily
⇒ Depression
⇒ Generalised Anxiety
⇒ Social Anxiety
⇒ Post Traumatic Stress
⇒ Low Self-esteem
⇒ Emotional Regulation
⇒ Anger
⇒ Psychosis
⇒ Stress
⇒ Grief and Loss
⇒ OCD
⇒ ADHD
⇒ Self-Harm
⇒ Suicidal Thoughts
Our Purpose
Deaf-Centred Expertise: Unlike general or disability counsellors who may not have specific experience with deaf culture, our therapists bring unparalleled knowledge.
We intimately understand the emotional and psychological complexities of living as a deaf person.
If you are struggling, please get in touch with the Oral and BSL counselling team.
Free Funding: Oral & BSL Counselling
We can apply for specialist deaf-focused counselling in most parts of Wales for individuals who prefer counselling in BSL.
Excluding: Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, which uses interpreters.
Applications can be made if clients are over 18 and live in Wales.
Application Process
Upon showing interest in our oral deaf & BSL counselling services, clients are promptly scheduled for an assessment session within seven days.
This initial meeting is crucial, as it allows us to grasp each client’s unique challenges and needs, fostering an environment of empathy and understanding and a step towards therapeutic progress.
Post-assessment, our dedicated team is responsible for applying for free funding on the client’s behalf.
This process is managed meticulously to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience for our clients and free them from additional administrative burdens.
Counselling sessions are typically scheduled to begin within 12 weeks of assessment and approval (this can vary by Health Board). Through this funding and our services, we aim to provide a supportive, empathetic, and practical counselling experience. We are committed to assisting individuals who are deaf in their journey towards emotional healing, resilience, and empowerment.
Self-Paying: Accessible and Prompt Counselling
Opting for self-pay means you can commence your counselling journey typically within a week, offering immediate support when you need it most. Furthermore, for those awaiting free funding approval, self-pay provides an opportunity to start counselling without delay, ensuring continuity of care and support.
Read more
In line with our mission to deliver exceptional counselling, we are acutely aware of the importance of affordability.
Self-paid clients within the UK can take advantage of specialist counselling.
To make our services more accessible, we have substantially subsidised our self-paid plans. This approach reflects our deep commitment to making BSL counselling available to a broader audience, irrespective of financial circumstances.
Our subsidised rates are designed with your needs in mind: an introductory session for £50, followed by a package of three sessions for £180. These rates are set to reduce financial pressure for our clients.
We firmly believe financial constraints should not hinder accessing the vital support and guidance necessary for managing mental health issues. We aim to enable more individuals to benefit from our professional, empathetic, and specialist counselling services.
Through this self-pay option, we strive to make a meaningful and positive impact on the lives of those who are deaf by offering them the support they need at an affordable and accessible price.
Paying Yourself
♣ Start Counselling almost immediately (14+)
♣ No waiting lists or reports
♣ £50 introduction session
♣ £180 Saverplan (3 sessions)
♣ £70 Pay-as-you-go
Free Funding
♣ Applications 18+
♣ Most Regions in Wales
♣ BSL or Hearing Loss
♣ Free Assessment Session
♣ Managed Application
Other Referrals
♣ Professional Organisations
♣ Mental Health Providers
♣ Friends & Family
♣ Carers
♣ GP’s
Understanding the Unique Spectrum of Deaf Challenges
We understand that life as a Deaf person can be challenging. It’s not just about dealing with depression or anxiety. We get it. We know that navigating a hearing world can create unique experiences and difficulties that affect your mental well-being.
Our Deaf counsellors are experts in understanding these challenges. We’re here to support you with all aspects of your mental health in a way that genuinely respects your Deaf identity.
Read more
Being Deaf in a hearing world comes with its own set of challenges. It’s not just about communication. It’s about navigating daily life, dealing with misunderstandings, and overcoming barriers that others may not even see.
These experiences can be frustrating and emotionally draining. They can affect your confidence, your relationships, and your overall well-being. You might feel isolated, misunderstood, or have to fight harder for the same opportunities.
Our Deaf counsellors understand this deeply. We know what it’s like to face these challenges because we’ve lived them ourselves. We see the whole picture – not just the anxiety or low mood, but the experiences and frustrations that contribute to it.
In our sessions, we’ll explore these root causes together. We’ll create a safe space where you can express yourself freely in BSL, share your experiences, and work towards feeling empowered and understood. We’re here to support you on your journey every step of the way.
Counselling for Caregivers: Support and Understanding for Those Who Care
We know that supporting a Deaf loved one can be rewarding and challenging. As a caregiver, you play a vital role in their life, but it’s important to look after your well-being, too.
Read more
Caring for someone can be emotionally and practically demanding. You might experience a range of emotions:
- Stress and exhaustion: Juggling your responsibilities can be tiring.
- Isolation: You might feel like others don’t understand your challenges.
- Guilt, frustration, or worry are common feelings when caring for a loved one.
- Difficulties balancing your life: Caring can take up much time and energy.
Our Deaf and hearing carer counsellors understand the unique challenges faced by caregivers in the Deaf community. We offer a safe and supportive space where you can:
A Commitment to Empowerment and Understanding
At our core, we’re committed to empowering Deaf individuals and their families through oral and BSL counselling. We believe in providing specialist support that genuinely understands the Deaf experience.
We recognise the unique challenges you face navigating a hearing world. Our BSL counsellors go beyond addressing surface-level issues, delving into the root causes of your concerns. We offer a safe space to explore feelings, build resilience, and achieve goals.
Here’s what makes our BSL counselling service stand out:
- Deaf counsellors who understand: We provide support from people who genuinely get it.
- Personalised approach: We tailor our sessions to your individual needs and experiences.
- Focus on empowerment: We help you build confidence and navigate your journey with resilience.
- Accessible for all: We offer flexible funding options to make our services available to everyone.
Our commitment goes beyond just offering counselling. We’re here to champion your strengths, celebrate your potential, and support you on your journey to well-being.
Real stories, real impact. See how BSL counselling has made a difference in the lives of Deaf individuals and their families.
Below, you’ll find inspiring stories from people in the Deaf community who have benefited from our specialised support. They share their journeys, the challenges they’ve overcome, and how our service has helped them thrive.
These testimonials highlight the power of connecting with a counsellor who truly understands your experiences. They demonstrate the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative impact of empathetic, accessible mental health care.
“Before I came to BSL counselling, I felt so isolated and alone. I couldn’t find anyone who understood what I was going through. But now, I finally feel like I have a place where I can be myself and express myself freely. My counsellor is amazing, and they understand me. I’m so grateful for their support.”
“I’ve always struggled with my mental health, but I never felt comfortable talking to anyone about it. I didn’t think anyone would understand. But when I found BSL counselling with DisabilityPlus, it was a lifesaver. My counsellor is Deaf, so they know my experiences in a way that no one else ever has. They’ve helped me to learn how to cope with my anxiety and depression, and I’m finally starting to feel like myself again.”
“I’ve always used spoken language, but I still felt missing out on something. I didn’t connect with the Deaf community, and I didn’t feel like I had anyone to talk to about my mental health. But then I found counselling, and it was like a whole new world opened up for me. I’ve learned so much about Deaf culture and made some fantastic friends. My counsellor is also orally Deaf, so they understand my experiences in a way that no one else ever has. They’ve helped me to learn how to cope with my anxiety and depression, and I’m finally starting to feel like I belong.”
“I’ve always been proud of my oral skills, but I also recognise the importance of BSL. I’m so glad that I found BSL counselling because it’s helped me to connect with the Deaf community in a way that I never thought possible. My counsellor is also Deaf, so they understand my experiences in a way that no one else ever has. They’ve helped me to learn how to cope with my anxiety and depression, and I’m finally starting to feel like myself again.”
“Caring for my Deaf child can be challenging at times, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I’m so grateful for counselling because it’s given me the support and resources I need to care for my child in the best way possible. My counsellor is hearing, but from the deaf community, so they understand my experiences in a way that no one else ever has.
They’ve helped me learn how to communicate more effectively with my child and given me some great tips on how to manage my own stress. I’m so grateful for their support.”
“For years, I struggled to find the right support for my anxiety. Talking therapies felt awkward and impersonal because I couldn’t fully express myself. BSL counselling changed everything. Finally, I could communicate openly and honestly with someone who understood my experiences as a Deaf person.”
