LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Canberra, ACT
I offer Autism and ADHD assessments for adults. I also provide therapy for adults, with a specialty in areas of neurodivergence (especially ADHD), those who identify as LGBTQIA+, and those with bipolar, anxiety and depression. Please note that I am not NDIS registered. Please note that I only offer Telehealth services to those in the ACT.
I offer Autism and ADHD assessments for adults. I also provide therapy for adults, with a specialty in areas of neurodivergence (especially ADHD), those who identify as LGBTQIA+, and those with bipolar, anxiety and depression. Please note that I am not NDIS registered. Please note that I only offer Telehealth services to those in the ACT.
Black Dove - Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600
Whether you've encountered an unexpected difficulty in your life, need to work through past events, or simply want to make some changes, we all need some help now and again. I'm a queer-friendly, sex-positive counsellor who works in a broad range of areas including depression, stress, trauma, grief and loss, sexual and gender identity, and relationship difficulties.
Whether you've encountered an unexpected difficulty in your life, need to work through past events, or simply want to make some changes, we all need some help now and again. I'm a queer-friendly, sex-positive counsellor who works in a broad range of areas including depression, stress, trauma, grief and loss, sexual and gender identity, and relationship difficulties.
These realms—Religious Trauma/Deconstruction, and The LGBTQIA+ Community, —are my areas of expertise and passion in therapy.
Are you facing a crisis of faith from a religious upbringing or abuse in your spiritual community? Perhaps you were raised in a religious household, and you're still unraveling the lingering effects. Struggling with the impact of purity culture? Healing from religious trauma or deconstructing takes time, commitment, and self-compassion, but healing is possible! In the LGBTQIA+ community too? I get it. I provide a safe and affirming space for exploring your spirituality, sexuality and gender, on your terms.
These realms—Religious Trauma/Deconstruction, and The LGBTQIA+ Community, —are my areas of expertise and passion in therapy.
Are you facing a crisis of faith from a religious upbringing or abuse in your spiritual community? Perhaps you were raised in a religious household, and you're still unraveling the lingering effects. Struggling with the impact of purity culture? Healing from religious trauma or deconstructing takes time, commitment, and self-compassion, but healing is possible! In the LGBTQIA+ community too? I get it. I provide a safe and affirming space for exploring your spirituality, sexuality and gender, on your terms.
Hello I'm Zave (he/they), a queer and trans counsellor. I work with people all over Australia and support them to live their most authentic lives. I explore their experiences and discover how they want to move forward. I understand the fear associated with accessing support, and prioritise creating safety and trust. My approach is integrative, and based on providing tailored, non-judgmental and trauma-informed support.
Hello I'm Zave (he/they), a queer and trans counsellor. I work with people all over Australia and support them to live their most authentic lives. I explore their experiences and discover how they want to move forward. I understand the fear associated with accessing support, and prioritise creating safety and trust. My approach is integrative, and based on providing tailored, non-judgmental and trauma-informed support.
Thalia Koulas - Therapy Shmerapy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600 (Online Only)
Therapy Shmerapy specialises in supporting the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities, with focus on autism, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ issues, and complex trauma. I have experience working with people aged 14 and above. I aim to create a non-judgmental space, ensuring inclusivity and genuineness in every session. I can work with people at all stages of life, from queer people out in the community, to people suspecting they may be autistic. I take particular interest in AFAB and neurodivergent people, and the entire LGBTQIA+ community. I am not suitable for people seeking CBT.
Therapy Shmerapy specialises in supporting the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities, with focus on autism, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ issues, and complex trauma. I have experience working with people aged 14 and above. I aim to create a non-judgmental space, ensuring inclusivity and genuineness in every session. I can work with people at all stages of life, from queer people out in the community, to people suspecting they may be autistic. I take particular interest in AFAB and neurodivergent people, and the entire LGBTQIA+ community. I am not suitable for people seeking CBT.
Anine Cummins (they/them) - Ginger Cat Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Please note: I am a counsellor, and cannot accept mental health care plans. I provide online counselling for adults and teenagers. Everyone is welcome! I work with LGBTIQ+ clients, including trans and non-binary people, people with traumatic histories, including sexual assault and abuse, people with dissociative disorders, including DID, people with ADHD and autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out.
Please note: I am a counsellor, and cannot accept mental health care plans. I provide online counselling for adults and teenagers. Everyone is welcome! I work with LGBTIQ+ clients, including trans and non-binary people, people with traumatic histories, including sexual assault and abuse, people with dissociative disorders, including DID, people with ADHD and autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out.
Sex and Relationship Therapist | Mim Kempson
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600
As a Sexologist and Registered Counsellor, I support individuals and couples facing challenges in sex, communication, dating, libido, FIFO relationships, neurodiversity (ADHD/ASD), family stresses, sexual difficulties/pain, codependency, healing from betrayal, ENM/polyamory, and more. I work with LGBTQ+ people and anyone feeling constrained or exhausted by the pressures to have a certain kind of marriage/relationship, income, family, career, appearance, to behave in a certain way, and be a certain person.
As a Sexologist and Registered Counsellor, I support individuals and couples facing challenges in sex, communication, dating, libido, FIFO relationships, neurodiversity (ADHD/ASD), family stresses, sexual difficulties/pain, codependency, healing from betrayal, ENM/polyamory, and more. I work with LGBTQ+ people and anyone feeling constrained or exhausted by the pressures to have a certain kind of marriage/relationship, income, family, career, appearance, to behave in a certain way, and be a certain person.
As a non-binary, queer, neurodivergent, and fat therapist, my lived experience allows me to understand the wider systemic impacts on each of our mental health and relationships.
I provide specialised counselling support to people with diverse experiences, including neurodivergence, gender, race, sexuality, disability, and fatness. My work centres anti-oppressive practices and values. I prioritise lived experience values and draw on my own journey and the journeys of others in my work.
As a non-binary, queer, neurodivergent, and fat therapist, my lived experience allows me to understand the wider systemic impacts on each of our mental health and relationships.
I provide specialised counselling support to people with diverse experiences, including neurodivergence, gender, race, sexuality, disability, and fatness. My work centres anti-oppressive practices and values. I prioritise lived experience values and draw on my own journey and the journeys of others in my work.
Shaun Williams - Bent Couch Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600
Additionally, Shaun facilitates FREE monthly online group sessions for gay and queer males providing support in a safe space.
Bent Couch Counselling, founded by Shaun Williams, is a Melbourne-based LGBTIQA+ counselling service specialising in fostering and supporting mental health and positive change within the LGBTIQA+ community, particularly focusing on individuals identifying as male. Providing 1-on-1 online counselling services across Australia and also in-person consultations in Melbourne. Shaun brings an empathetic, professional approach to counselling that is based on his own journey as a CIS gay male and a father. He is a member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and has over 18 years of experience in healthcare.
Additionally, Shaun facilitates FREE monthly online group sessions for gay and queer males providing support in a safe space.
Bent Couch Counselling, founded by Shaun Williams, is a Melbourne-based LGBTIQA+ counselling service specialising in fostering and supporting mental health and positive change within the LGBTIQA+ community, particularly focusing on individuals identifying as male. Providing 1-on-1 online counselling services across Australia and also in-person consultations in Melbourne. Shaun brings an empathetic, professional approach to counselling that is based on his own journey as a CIS gay male and a father. He is a member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and has over 18 years of experience in healthcare.
I specialise in LGBTQIA+ therapy.
Hi, I’m Emma. I’m a therapist supporting people who struggle with mental health/addiction. My areas of specialist experience are trauma, anxiety, depression and substance misuse. I support people who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, grief or loss and addiction. I provide a person centred approach to therapy, which looks at individuals as a whole person. I am a narrative therapist and will look at your story and the patterns of behaviour. My style is relaxed and gentle to help guide you through whatever brings you to therapy.
I specialise in LGBTQIA+ therapy.
Hi, I’m Emma. I’m a therapist supporting people who struggle with mental health/addiction. My areas of specialist experience are trauma, anxiety, depression and substance misuse. I support people who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, grief or loss and addiction. I provide a person centred approach to therapy, which looks at individuals as a whole person. I am a narrative therapist and will look at your story and the patterns of behaviour. My style is relaxed and gentle to help guide you through whatever brings you to therapy.
Creating Wellbeing Melbourne
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600
***PLEASE CONTACT ME VIA EMAIL*** Hi, I'm Rae (they/them) and I'm an Arts Therapist, Psychotherapist and Supervisor. I am Non-Binary and Neurodivergent with a lived experience of Chronic Illness. I am very passionate about Disability Rights, the LGBTQIA+ Community and Mental Health. I am also vegan and love animals. I also have a sensory garden outside the studio.
***PLEASE CONTACT ME VIA EMAIL*** Hi, I'm Rae (they/them) and I'm an Arts Therapist, Psychotherapist and Supervisor. I am Non-Binary and Neurodivergent with a lived experience of Chronic Illness. I am very passionate about Disability Rights, the LGBTQIA+ Community and Mental Health. I am also vegan and love animals. I also have a sensory garden outside the studio.
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Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a gay man and have a particular interest in LGBTQIA+ well-being.
I am clinical psychologist and work with anxiety disorders, depression, addictions, trauma and relationships. My therapeutic approach uses CBT, ACT and mindfulness for letting go of unhelpful thoughts, being present with difficult emotions and connecting to your values; the things that really matter to you.
I am a gay man and have a particular interest in LGBTQIA+ well-being.
I am clinical psychologist and work with anxiety disorders, depression, addictions, trauma and relationships. My therapeutic approach uses CBT, ACT and mindfulness for letting go of unhelpful thoughts, being present with difficult emotions and connecting to your values; the things that really matter to you.
I am a generalist therapist with a few areas of special interest including neurodiversity in children and adults, LGBTQIA+ community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wellbeing & mental health.
I am an experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist working with youth, adolescents, adults, and couples. Drawing from a range of modalities I can work with you on a range of mental health issues including trauma work, grief, depression, and anxiety. I also work with people sorting through life's storms as couples or individuals, dealing with relationship issues, interpersonal communication, recovering from bullying or trauma, or coping with major life changes.
I am a generalist therapist with a few areas of special interest including neurodiversity in children and adults, LGBTQIA+ community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wellbeing & mental health.
I am an experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist working with youth, adolescents, adults, and couples. Drawing from a range of modalities I can work with you on a range of mental health issues including trauma work, grief, depression, and anxiety. I also work with people sorting through life's storms as couples or individuals, dealing with relationship issues, interpersonal communication, recovering from bullying or trauma, or coping with major life changes.
Brooke Clark Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hi! I am Brooke, a Neurodivergent and Neuro-affirming Registered Psychologist. My goal is empowering people to heal and uncover their true, authentic selves. I want to help clients build a life based on their unique values. My practice is: kink, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent and gender non-conforming affirming. All people are welcome and celebrated. I work exclusively as a telehealth psychologist, Australia-wide referrals are welcome. I see clients with Medicare plans, NDIS plans and self-funded currently.
Hi! I am Brooke, a Neurodivergent and Neuro-affirming Registered Psychologist. My goal is empowering people to heal and uncover their true, authentic selves. I want to help clients build a life based on their unique values. My practice is: kink, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent and gender non-conforming affirming. All people are welcome and celebrated. I work exclusively as a telehealth psychologist, Australia-wide referrals are welcome. I see clients with Medicare plans, NDIS plans and self-funded currently.
I specialise in themes of communication, shame & identity, with experience & special interest in Kink/Fetish, BDSM, Non-Monogamy, Polyamory, and Queer/LGBTQIA+ communities.
I’m a Psychosexual Therapist & Educator, Gestalt Therapist and Registered Nurse. I’ve been a practicing Therapist since 2019, with over 10yrs experience in the health system. I see individuals, couples & polycules for counselling & education around sexuality & relationships, and general mental health.
I specialise in themes of communication, shame & identity, with experience & special interest in Kink/Fetish, BDSM, Non-Monogamy, Polyamory, and Queer/LGBTQIA+ communities.
I’m a Psychosexual Therapist & Educator, Gestalt Therapist and Registered Nurse. I’ve been a practicing Therapist since 2019, with over 10yrs experience in the health system. I see individuals, couples & polycules for counselling & education around sexuality & relationships, and general mental health.
My name is Beth, and I am a psychologist who focuses on working with neurodivergent young adults, teens, and kids, particularly those who identify as gender diverse or LGBTQIA+. As a teenager, life can be hard and confusing. You may be struggling with self-esteem, figuring out your identity, or dealing with changes in your life
My name is Beth, and I am a psychologist who focuses on working with neurodivergent young adults, teens, and kids, particularly those who identify as gender diverse or LGBTQIA+. As a teenager, life can be hard and confusing. You may be struggling with self-esteem, figuring out your identity, or dealing with changes in your life
Very Helpful Chats offers ADHD & Autism assessments, mental health treatment, counselling, occupational therapy, ADHD coaching, and social-therapeutic groups to the neurodivergent community. We are an online telehealth-only service. Our team is made up of neurodivergent, neuro-affirming, gender diverse, and queer/LGBTIQA+ health professionals.
Very Helpful Chats offers ADHD & Autism assessments, mental health treatment, counselling, occupational therapy, ADHD coaching, and social-therapeutic groups to the neurodivergent community. We are an online telehealth-only service. Our team is made up of neurodivergent, neuro-affirming, gender diverse, and queer/LGBTIQA+ health professionals.
Please reach out via email. Hello! I'm Lauren (she/they) and I am an Arts Psychotherapist and Counsellor based in the Outer Eastern suburbs of Naarm (Melbourne). I have lived experience of being neurodivergent (AuDHD) and I am currently exploring my own queer identity. I am passionate about neuro-affirming care and psychoeducation around neurodivergence, and holistic care for youth, women and queer folk living with disability and trauma. I am a mum to one human teen and one elderly Siamese cat. I am an established artist who dabbles in art journaling, mixed media art, photography, dance and movement and more.
Please reach out via email. Hello! I'm Lauren (she/they) and I am an Arts Psychotherapist and Counsellor based in the Outer Eastern suburbs of Naarm (Melbourne). I have lived experience of being neurodivergent (AuDHD) and I am currently exploring my own queer identity. I am passionate about neuro-affirming care and psychoeducation around neurodivergence, and holistic care for youth, women and queer folk living with disability and trauma. I am a mum to one human teen and one elderly Siamese cat. I am an established artist who dabbles in art journaling, mixed media art, photography, dance and movement and more.
I work with young adults, queer folks (incl late bloomers) creatives, sex workers, fat hunnies, poly peeps, neurospicy friends and deep thinkers + feelers.
Hey, I'm stoked you've stopped by! I'm Ess, an introverted, dance obsessed, spiritual being who will drop an F-bomb in solidarity or celebration. I'm genuinely interested in learning about you and hearing your story. I'm excited for you, to be more YOU! Whether that's supporting you to: express yourself more fully, learn tools to practice self-acceptance, work through past experiences so you can embrace you now, unlearn and relearn behaviours so you can thrive... I have approx 10 years experience working in trauma/mental health, and enjoy working with folks curious about deeper self exploration + growth.
I work with young adults, queer folks (incl late bloomers) creatives, sex workers, fat hunnies, poly peeps, neurospicy friends and deep thinkers + feelers.
Hey, I'm stoked you've stopped by! I'm Ess, an introverted, dance obsessed, spiritual being who will drop an F-bomb in solidarity or celebration. I'm genuinely interested in learning about you and hearing your story. I'm excited for you, to be more YOU! Whether that's supporting you to: express yourself more fully, learn tools to practice self-acceptance, work through past experiences so you can embrace you now, unlearn and relearn behaviours so you can thrive... I have approx 10 years experience working in trauma/mental health, and enjoy working with folks curious about deeper self exploration + growth.
I support individuals and partners to navigate the unique challenges faced by those wanting to explore relationship styles other than the socially accepted heterosexual monogamous relationship, such as Kink, BDSM, swinging, multi-partner relationships, or polyamory, especially those in mixed-orientation and queer relationships.
We are all constantly evolving and this can present difficult challenges, often impacted by family, social and cultural conditioning, religious and gender-based beliefs, roles, and biases. You might want to challenge this conditioning and these constraints. Understanding this within ourself, our relationships, and our families can be complex. You might realise that your sexual, relationship, and gender identities and preferences may be different from societal expectations, so you may struggle internally to accept who you are and your ability to live authentically. We need safe and appropriate support to navigate these changes.
I support individuals and partners to navigate the unique challenges faced by those wanting to explore relationship styles other than the socially accepted heterosexual monogamous relationship, such as Kink, BDSM, swinging, multi-partner relationships, or polyamory, especially those in mixed-orientation and queer relationships.
We are all constantly evolving and this can present difficult challenges, often impacted by family, social and cultural conditioning, religious and gender-based beliefs, roles, and biases. You might want to challenge this conditioning and these constraints. Understanding this within ourself, our relationships, and our families can be complex. You might realise that your sexual, relationship, and gender identities and preferences may be different from societal expectations, so you may struggle internally to accept who you are and your ability to live authentically. We need safe and appropriate support to navigate these changes.
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Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialised training, either during their degree programme or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalisation in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialised training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.