LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Balmain, NSW

Photo of Patrick Eid, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Patrick Eid
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
My specialisation is in Queer and CALD individuals experiencing complex mental health illness.
Hi, my name is Patrick and I cannot tell you how excited I am to be able to provide you with this service. As a Queer person from a CALD background who grew up in a conservative community with a high stigma around mental health illness, I understand what it is like to develop and live with poor mental health as a result of systemic concerns. Throughout my personal and professional life, I’ve always found it difficult to find a service that holistically caters to the mental health of people that live in complex systems (e.g., accounting for racial injustice, systemic oppression, complex trauma, and the patriarchy… to name a few).
My specialisation is in Queer and CALD individuals experiencing complex mental health illness.
Hi, my name is Patrick and I cannot tell you how excited I am to be able to provide you with this service. As a Queer person from a CALD background who grew up in a conservative community with a high stigma around mental health illness, I understand what it is like to develop and live with poor mental health as a result of systemic concerns. Throughout my personal and professional life, I’ve always found it difficult to find a service that holistically caters to the mental health of people that live in complex systems (e.g., accounting for racial injustice, systemic oppression, complex trauma, and the patriarchy… to name a few).
(02) 8322 9090 View (02) 8322 9090
Photo of Deepika Gupta, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Deepika Gupta
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Balmain, NSW 2041
I bring my clinical lens and client centered approach in my work in helping individuals and couples effectively cope with emotional distress and learn helpful strategies to deal with mental health concerns like depression, anxiety and stress. I work as an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and bring my experience of working across cultures & communities to the sessions.
I bring my clinical lens and client centered approach in my work in helping individuals and couples effectively cope with emotional distress and learn helpful strategies to deal with mental health concerns like depression, anxiety and stress. I work as an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and bring my experience of working across cultures & communities to the sessions.
(02) 9100 0191 View (02) 9100 0191
Photo of Naomi Crellin, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Naomi Crellin
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
I welcome a diverse spectrum of individuals to my practice. Some areas of focus of mine are issues relating to gender, sexuality, postnatal depression, performance anxiety, and couples therapy with a focus on atypical family and relationship structures. I am a sex positive, body positive, gender-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming counsellor for 18+ folk who are looking for warm, non-judgemental support.
I welcome a diverse spectrum of individuals to my practice. Some areas of focus of mine are issues relating to gender, sexuality, postnatal depression, performance anxiety, and couples therapy with a focus on atypical family and relationship structures. I am a sex positive, body positive, gender-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming counsellor for 18+ folk who are looking for warm, non-judgemental support.
(02) 9100 0493 View (02) 9100 0493
Photo of John Hristoforidis, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Hristoforidis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
Clients present to therapy for a variety of reasons. I provide a safe, non-judgemental space that meets where the client is at, and gently explores what's happening in their life. Together we can work towards goals that are alligned with their hopes, aspirations, desires or needs; to improve connection with the self, interpersonal relationships and the interplay with their surrounding social world.
Clients present to therapy for a variety of reasons. I provide a safe, non-judgemental space that meets where the client is at, and gently explores what's happening in their life. Together we can work towards goals that are alligned with their hopes, aspirations, desires or needs; to improve connection with the self, interpersonal relationships and the interplay with their surrounding social world.
(02) 9100 0965 View (02) 9100 0965
Photo of Lexie Ashwell-Jones - The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones), MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones)
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041  (Online Only)
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
(02) 9100 0765 View (02) 9100 0765
Photo of David Robert James McCarthy - David McCarthy Counselling , PACFA, Counsellor
David McCarthy Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
I am an Addictions Specialist Therapist specialising in working with Executives. I work with executives wishing to reduce or cease their use of addictive substances and/ or behaviours. I recognise the more traditional substance abuse disorders (all drugs and alcohol). I also recognise the full spectrum of problem behaviours known as "process addictions". These include but are not limited to sex, gaming, exercise, gambling, self harm and overeating. People usually approach me because they are experiencing unmanageable associated consequences to their using such as overwhelming anxiety, depression, and relationship breakdown etc..
I am an Addictions Specialist Therapist specialising in working with Executives. I work with executives wishing to reduce or cease their use of addictive substances and/ or behaviours. I recognise the more traditional substance abuse disorders (all drugs and alcohol). I also recognise the full spectrum of problem behaviours known as "process addictions". These include but are not limited to sex, gaming, exercise, gambling, self harm and overeating. People usually approach me because they are experiencing unmanageable associated consequences to their using such as overwhelming anxiety, depression, and relationship breakdown etc..
(02) 9100 0579 View (02) 9100 0579
Photo of Shiraze Bulsara - The Sydney Psychology Practice, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
The Sydney Psychology Practice
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
The Sydney Psychology Practice is focused on supporting clients to make sustainable change. Our team has extensive experience with a diverse range of clients and concerns, and using treatments with demonstrated research efficacy.
The Sydney Psychology Practice is focused on supporting clients to make sustainable change. Our team has extensive experience with a diverse range of clients and concerns, and using treatments with demonstrated research efficacy.
(02) 9100 0631 View (02) 9100 0631
Photo of Tanya Franic - Treat Yourself Well Psychology Sydney, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Treat Yourself Well Psychology Sydney
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Balmain, NSW 2041
Treat Yourself Well Sydney is an established boutique Psychology Practice with a niche reputation in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma and neurodiversity. Our Psychologists have extensive experience in eating disorders and trauma and take a non diet, weight neutral, Health at Every Size approach. We also offer high quality assessment and treatment for a wide range of presentations including depression, anxiety, stress, relationships and interpersonal matters. We are compassion focused, mindfulness based and trauma informed focusing on mind and body wellness.
Treat Yourself Well Sydney is an established boutique Psychology Practice with a niche reputation in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma and neurodiversity. Our Psychologists have extensive experience in eating disorders and trauma and take a non diet, weight neutral, Health at Every Size approach. We also offer high quality assessment and treatment for a wide range of presentations including depression, anxiety, stress, relationships and interpersonal matters. We are compassion focused, mindfulness based and trauma informed focusing on mind and body wellness.
(02) 9158 6591 View (02) 9158 6591
Photo of Natasha Lawrence, PACFA, Counsellor
Natasha Lawrence
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Balmain, NSW 2041
Each person's experience is unique. You might be struggling with past hurts, experiencing challenging thoughts, have feelings of self-sabotage or that no matter what you do, you end up in the same relationships and repeating the same patterns. The answers lie within you and I can help you uncover them. I bring non-judgemental acceptance, belief in your resilience, and compassion to the journey that we embark on together. I will support you to find the patterns and behaviours in your life that no longer serve you.
Each person's experience is unique. You might be struggling with past hurts, experiencing challenging thoughts, have feelings of self-sabotage or that no matter what you do, you end up in the same relationships and repeating the same patterns. The answers lie within you and I can help you uncover them. I bring non-judgemental acceptance, belief in your resilience, and compassion to the journey that we embark on together. I will support you to find the patterns and behaviours in your life that no longer serve you.
(02) 8000 1496 View (02) 8000 1496
Photo of Dr Sarah Lal, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Dr Sarah Lal
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
Sarah is a dual qualified Psychotherapist and Osteopath and grounds her ethos in the equal importance of your body, mind, and spirit in your well-being. Her holistic approach is strongly influenced by Somatic Psychotherapy and supported by her Osteopathic knowledge and expertise. Therapeutic modalities range from Mindfulness and Somatic Therapy, Contemporary Psychodynamic Therapy, and Creative Arts Therapy. Sarah's trauma-informed person-centred approach establishes a safe space before delving into your concerns. She enjoys the privilege of helping people find their innermost happiness and live life authentically.
Sarah is a dual qualified Psychotherapist and Osteopath and grounds her ethos in the equal importance of your body, mind, and spirit in your well-being. Her holistic approach is strongly influenced by Somatic Psychotherapy and supported by her Osteopathic knowledge and expertise. Therapeutic modalities range from Mindfulness and Somatic Therapy, Contemporary Psychodynamic Therapy, and Creative Arts Therapy. Sarah's trauma-informed person-centred approach establishes a safe space before delving into your concerns. She enjoys the privilege of helping people find their innermost happiness and live life authentically.
(02) 9159 6596 View (02) 9159 6596
Photo of Anna Cohen - Kids & Co Clinical Psychology, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Kids & Co Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041  (Online Only)
Kids & Co provides psychological care for children, adolescents and their families. Kids and Co offers psychological assessment and treatments for a wide range of childhood emotional, behavioural and family problems. Kids & Co Psychologists have extensive training and experience in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental health, personal, and family issues. Their experience and expertise in the field of child and family psychology is well recognised by colleagues, media agencies and the wider community.
Kids & Co provides psychological care for children, adolescents and their families. Kids and Co offers psychological assessment and treatments for a wide range of childhood emotional, behavioural and family problems. Kids & Co Psychologists have extensive training and experience in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental health, personal, and family issues. Their experience and expertise in the field of child and family psychology is well recognised by colleagues, media agencies and the wider community.
(02) 9158 6217 View (02) 9158 6217
Photo of Elizabeth Alvanos, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Elizabeth Alvanos
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Balmain, NSW 2041
My practice is informed by a humanistic-existential approach, which means, I understand the complexity of individual intrapersonal and interpersonal experiences and believe that they are at the heart of our human experience. I believe we all have it within us to create meaning and purpose in our lives and this can only occur when we come to understand our lives are not something to overcome but rather something we must face with compassion and tenderness. I draw on evidence based modalities such as CBT, ACT, EFT, IFS, family systems, and Gottman approach to support and guide individual and couples therapy.
My practice is informed by a humanistic-existential approach, which means, I understand the complexity of individual intrapersonal and interpersonal experiences and believe that they are at the heart of our human experience. I believe we all have it within us to create meaning and purpose in our lives and this can only occur when we come to understand our lives are not something to overcome but rather something we must face with compassion and tenderness. I draw on evidence based modalities such as CBT, ACT, EFT, IFS, family systems, and Gottman approach to support and guide individual and couples therapy.
(02) 9100 0471 View (02) 9100 0471
Photo of Rocio Sanchez, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rocio Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
Hi, I’m Rocio. I use she/her pronouns and live in Sydney NSW. I’m a therapist and clinical social worker that is passionate about supporting others to come closer to themselves and the world around them. I am interested in deep work, and I like working with people that are emotionally courageous.
Hi, I’m Rocio. I use she/her pronouns and live in Sydney NSW. I’m a therapist and clinical social worker that is passionate about supporting others to come closer to themselves and the world around them. I am interested in deep work, and I like working with people that are emotionally courageous.
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Photo of Julie Delmar - Julie Delmar Psychotherapy, Counselling & Hypnosis, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Julie Delmar Psychotherapy, Counselling & Hypnosis
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Balmain, NSW 2041
Are you looking for help finding answers to difficult questions? Support as you navigate life’s challenges? Somewhere offering a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment to explore your concerns? I provide personalised, experienced and supportive therapy, in an inclusive practice. Based in Sydney’s Inner West, appointments are available face-to-face by telephone or online. The most effective therapy starts with our relationship. For this reason I offer a FREE, 20 minute no obligation initial consultation. This allows you to discuss your goals and expectations, while discovering if you would like to work further with me.
Are you looking for help finding answers to difficult questions? Support as you navigate life’s challenges? Somewhere offering a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment to explore your concerns? I provide personalised, experienced and supportive therapy, in an inclusive practice. Based in Sydney’s Inner West, appointments are available face-to-face by telephone or online. The most effective therapy starts with our relationship. For this reason I offer a FREE, 20 minute no obligation initial consultation. This allows you to discuss your goals and expectations, while discovering if you would like to work further with me.
(02) 8294 6994 View (02) 8294 6994
Photo of Marina Suarez, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Marina Suarez
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
Are you struggling with anxiety, shame, intimacy or low self-esteem? Do you often feel that there's something wrong with you or that you are not good enough, no matter how hard you try? Do you constantly worry about what other people think of you or feel guilty a lot of the time? Are you trying to deal with the impact of difficult childhood experiences? Psychotherapy can help. With the right guidance and support it's possible to work through these issues. I work in partnership with my clients to help them find ways to feel better in the world and with themselves.
Are you struggling with anxiety, shame, intimacy or low self-esteem? Do you often feel that there's something wrong with you or that you are not good enough, no matter how hard you try? Do you constantly worry about what other people think of you or feel guilty a lot of the time? Are you trying to deal with the impact of difficult childhood experiences? Psychotherapy can help. With the right guidance and support it's possible to work through these issues. I work in partnership with my clients to help them find ways to feel better in the world and with themselves.
(02) 5104 1032 View (02) 5104 1032
Photo of Sonia Scali, PACFA, Counsellor
Sonia Scali
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
Welcome, I’m Sonia, a warm, compassionate and open-minded counsellor. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative and strength-based, listening and tailoring my approach around your needs. My aim is to help you manage life's challenges with self-compassion and self-kindness. I work with both adults and adolescents, specialising in trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, domestic and family violence, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, difficulties with boundaries, family estrangement and shame. Supporting my clients with communication and interpersonal relationships is a special interest of mine.
Welcome, I’m Sonia, a warm, compassionate and open-minded counsellor. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative and strength-based, listening and tailoring my approach around your needs. My aim is to help you manage life's challenges with self-compassion and self-kindness. I work with both adults and adolescents, specialising in trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, domestic and family violence, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, difficulties with boundaries, family estrangement and shame. Supporting my clients with communication and interpersonal relationships is a special interest of mine.
(02) 9100 0424 View (02) 9100 0424
Photo of Atia Burian Tani, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Atia Burian Tani
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
I bring four decades of experience in mental health, art, design. I work with individuals, couples, and family members who seek to change their relationships with themselves and others. I aim to open possibilities to people who have little hope for change, struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms, feeling overwhelmed and lost. This is often accompanied by counterproductive soothing behaviours such as substance use, addiction to gambling, gaming, sex, or screen use. Further, some clients may stay in relationships that deepen their belief that they cannot become the agents of their own lives.
I bring four decades of experience in mental health, art, design. I work with individuals, couples, and family members who seek to change their relationships with themselves and others. I aim to open possibilities to people who have little hope for change, struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms, feeling overwhelmed and lost. This is often accompanied by counterproductive soothing behaviours such as substance use, addiction to gambling, gaming, sex, or screen use. Further, some clients may stay in relationships that deepen their belief that they cannot become the agents of their own lives.
(02) 6189 2979 View (02) 6189 2979
Photo of Marie Laing, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Marie Laing
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
Although we may be trying our hardest, sometimes we can feel overwhelmed and unable to cope, or that our lives have taken a wrong turn. We can be plagued by depression, anxiety, grief or difficult life transitions. Or we may have mental illness or trauma that continues to get in our way and stops us flourishing. If these difficulties ring true, I believe I can help you get your life and your self back. Together, we will explore where you are now, the person you want to be and the way you want to live.
Although we may be trying our hardest, sometimes we can feel overwhelmed and unable to cope, or that our lives have taken a wrong turn. We can be plagued by depression, anxiety, grief or difficult life transitions. Or we may have mental illness or trauma that continues to get in our way and stops us flourishing. If these difficulties ring true, I believe I can help you get your life and your self back. Together, we will explore where you are now, the person you want to be and the way you want to live.
(02) 9160 0712 View (02) 9160 0712
Photo of Jacqueline Hellyer, MSc
Jacqueline Hellyer
MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Balmain, NSW 2041
Consider me your "Connection Coach". Relationships and sexuality are essential to well-being in love and life. However, this area can be confusing and challenging to navigate alone, making professional guidance invaluable. Finding the right help can be tough, as even well-meaning professionals may lack the knowledge and skills needed to address these issues effectively. That's why I've dedicated myself to studying and training at the highest levels to support you in gaining clarity around your sexuality and relationships, both individually and as a couple. I'm here to help you understand and improve these vital aspects of your life.
Consider me your "Connection Coach". Relationships and sexuality are essential to well-being in love and life. However, this area can be confusing and challenging to navigate alone, making professional guidance invaluable. Finding the right help can be tough, as even well-meaning professionals may lack the knowledge and skills needed to address these issues effectively. That's why I've dedicated myself to studying and training at the highest levels to support you in gaining clarity around your sexuality and relationships, both individually and as a couple. I'm here to help you understand and improve these vital aspects of your life.
(02) 9100 0219 View (02) 9100 0219
Photo of Tara Trewartha, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Tara Trewartha
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
I pride myself on providing a safe, compassionate and non-judgemental space. I am passionate about helping people to build on their individual strengths and develop new skills. If you are hoping to experience a greater quality of life, find some direction, or achieve your goals, it would be a privilege for me to offer you guidance and support.
I pride myself on providing a safe, compassionate and non-judgemental space. I am passionate about helping people to build on their individual strengths and develop new skills. If you are hoping to experience a greater quality of life, find some direction, or achieve your goals, it would be a privilege for me to offer you guidance and support.
(02) 9100 0805 View (02) 9100 0805
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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.