LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Australian Capital Territory

Photo of Lisa Shirt, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Lisa Shirt
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Deakin, ACT 2600
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.
(02) 5941 6860 View (02) 5941 6860
Photo of Richard Cordiner - Black Dove - Counselling and Psychotherapy, PhD, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Black Dove - Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Deakin, 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.
(02) 5943 7875 View (02) 5943 7875
Photo of Samantha Sellers - Anchored Counselling Services, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Anchored Counselling Services
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600
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.
(02) 3820 3213 View (02) 3820 3213
Photo of Thalia Koulas - Therapy Shmerapy, ACA-L2, Counsellor
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.
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Photo of Zave Leo N - Zave Leo, Counsellor
Zave Leo
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
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.
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Photo of Niamh Connellan, MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Niamh Connellan
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
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.
(03) 9626 9520 View (03) 9626 9520
Photo of Mim Kempson - Sex and Relationship Therapist | Mim Kempson, ACA-L2, Counsellor
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.
(08) 7079 5667 View (08) 7079 5667
Photo of Anine Cummins - Anine Cummins (they/them) - Ginger Cat Counselling, ACA-L1, Counsellor
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.
(03) 8338 1789 View (03) 8338 1789
Photo of Shaun Williams - Bent Couch Counselling, ACA-L1, Counsellor
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.
(03) 9111 2666 View (03) 9111 2666
Photo of Emma Mansell, PsychD, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Emma Mansell
Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600
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.
(02) 8403 2271 View (02) 8403 2271
Photo of Rae Sabine - Creating Wellbeing Melbourne, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
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.
(03) 7302 2943 View (03) 7302 2943
Photo of Dr Mike van Dijkhuizen, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Mike van Dijkhuizen
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.
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Photo of Penni Dickson, MA, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Penni Dickson
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Deakin, ACT 2600
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.
(02) 5941 6274 View (02) 5941 6274
Photo of darleen Barton - DIPAC Counselling, Therapy, Mediation & Coaching , ACA-L2, Counsellor
DIPAC Counselling, Therapy, Mediation & Coaching
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Barton, ACT 2600
Types of counselling Darleen specialises in the following types of counselling: Relationship Counselling, Individual Counselling, Sex Therapy Desire & Intimacy Counselling Trauma, Counselling Porn Addiction, Online Counselling, , Counselling Narcissism Counselling, Pre-Marriage Program, Anger Management, LGBTQ+ Anxiety Counselling, Grief Counselling. Specialised training Darleen’s specialist training includes: Advanced Dip Psychology / Counselling Advance Dip Legal Mediation (preventative Law) C B T Practitioner Dip Personal / Professional / Coaching Family Coaching Recovery Coaching
Types of counselling Darleen specialises in the following types of counselling: Relationship Counselling, Individual Counselling, Sex Therapy Desire & Intimacy Counselling Trauma, Counselling Porn Addiction, Online Counselling, , Counselling Narcissism Counselling, Pre-Marriage Program, Anger Management, LGBTQ+ Anxiety Counselling, Grief Counselling. Specialised training Darleen’s specialist training includes: Advanced Dip Psychology / Counselling Advance Dip Legal Mediation (preventative Law) C B T Practitioner Dip Personal / Professional / Coaching Family Coaching Recovery Coaching
(02) 5118 9826 View (02) 5118 9826
Photo of Brooke Clark - Brooke Clark Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
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.
Photo of Arlyn Owens
Arlyn Owens
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600
Not accepting new clients
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.
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Photo of Beth McNamara, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Beth McNamara
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
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
(02) 9100 0439 View (02) 9100 0439
Photo of Nicolle Griffin, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Nicolle Griffin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
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.
(02) 9100 0205 View (02) 9100 0205
Photo of Lauren Fisher - Inner Worlds Arts Therapy, Psychotherapist
Inner Worlds Arts Therapy
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600
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.
(03) 8771 5199 View (03) 8771 5199
Photo of Ess Binet, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Ess Binet
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
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.
(02) 8074 5874 View (02) 8074 5874
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See more therapy options for Australian Capital Territory

LGBTQ+ Counsellors

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.