LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Darlinghurst, NSW
I am a queer-affirming Gestalt therapist specializing in LGBTQ+ issues, self-expression and open relating.
Do you suffer from anxiety, shame or guilt regarding your self-expression, relationships or sexuality? Are you wanting to quieten your inner critic and open yourself to deeper, more intimate and lasting connections with others? Does it feel like there's something holding you back? Through our sessions together you'll notice your nervous system softening and emotional body becoming more regulated and able to be expressed. Together we can illuminate patterns that might ordinarily hide in the shadows.
I am a queer-affirming Gestalt therapist specializing in LGBTQ+ issues, self-expression and open relating.
Do you suffer from anxiety, shame or guilt regarding your self-expression, relationships or sexuality? Are you wanting to quieten your inner critic and open yourself to deeper, more intimate and lasting connections with others? Does it feel like there's something holding you back? Through our sessions together you'll notice your nervous system softening and emotional body becoming more regulated and able to be expressed. Together we can illuminate patterns that might ordinarily hide in the shadows.
Dr Frank Sattler
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Darlinghurst, NSW 2010
Hi! I'm a clinical psychologist working with individuals and couples. With individuals, I use CBT, relational therapy, LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, exposure therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, and ethical consultation among others. I work with adults, children and adolescents. I'm a Certified Gottman Therapist and in couples therapy, I mix Gottman therapy and systemic approaches. I also offer discernment counselling to married couples with divorce ambivalence.
Hi! I'm a clinical psychologist working with individuals and couples. With individuals, I use CBT, relational therapy, LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, exposure therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, and ethical consultation among others. I work with adults, children and adolescents. I'm a Certified Gottman Therapist and in couples therapy, I mix Gottman therapy and systemic approaches. I also offer discernment counselling to married couples with divorce ambivalence.
I provide sex therapy for individual and couple sexual issues and I’m experienced in working with LGBT and same-sex couples.
Can you relate to either of these statements? “I’m so over hurtful relationships. I’m starting to think I’ll be single forever” "We can’t keep fighting like this. If something doesn’t change we’re headed for a breakup” If you can relate to the pain of struggling in a relationship, you’re not alone. If you’re an individual in relationship pain, I can help you overcome your past relationship hurts, understand your blocks to intimacy, and help you create a successful long-term relationship. If you’re a couple, I can help you resolve long-standing issues and rebuild the loving, intimate and harmonious relationship you once had.
I provide sex therapy for individual and couple sexual issues and I’m experienced in working with LGBT and same-sex couples.
Can you relate to either of these statements? “I’m so over hurtful relationships. I’m starting to think I’ll be single forever” "We can’t keep fighting like this. If something doesn’t change we’re headed for a breakup” If you can relate to the pain of struggling in a relationship, you’re not alone. If you’re an individual in relationship pain, I can help you overcome your past relationship hurts, understand your blocks to intimacy, and help you create a successful long-term relationship. If you’re a couple, I can help you resolve long-standing issues and rebuild the loving, intimate and harmonious relationship you once had.
My clients include LGBTQ+ identifying people and those exploring sexuality as well as all kinds of people escaping religious abuse, coercive control, DV and addiction.
As a Medicare Provider of Focussed Psychological Strategies, I provide professional treatment with Medicare rebates for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD and other mental health difficulties. I specialise in concerns about toxic relationships, religious trauma, pornography use problems and ‘sex addiction’ from a sexuality-affirmative perspective and also assist those managing other addictions. Whether you are experiencing anger, guilt, grief, shame, fear, loneliness, confusion or something else, you can benefit from professional support. Sessions can give you a sounding board or professional guidance, it's your choice.
My clients include LGBTQ+ identifying people and those exploring sexuality as well as all kinds of people escaping religious abuse, coercive control, DV and addiction.
As a Medicare Provider of Focussed Psychological Strategies, I provide professional treatment with Medicare rebates for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD and other mental health difficulties. I specialise in concerns about toxic relationships, religious trauma, pornography use problems and ‘sex addiction’ from a sexuality-affirmative perspective and also assist those managing other addictions. Whether you are experiencing anger, guilt, grief, shame, fear, loneliness, confusion or something else, you can benefit from professional support. Sessions can give you a sounding board or professional guidance, it's your choice.
Dinah is an accredited counsellor, specialising in holistic, person-centred care to support you in living a meaningful and positive life. Over the years Dinah has worked with people who present with depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions and interpersonal issues. She ensures her practice is trauma informed to ensure a safe and welcoming environment. She specialises in LGBT topics such as Poly and ENM relationship styles, SW friendly, and Gender Identity.
Dinah is an accredited counsellor, specialising in holistic, person-centred care to support you in living a meaningful and positive life. Over the years Dinah has worked with people who present with depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions and interpersonal issues. She ensures her practice is trauma informed to ensure a safe and welcoming environment. She specialises in LGBT topics such as Poly and ENM relationship styles, SW friendly, and Gender Identity.
Josh Feeney (Tribe Wellness)
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Darlinghurst, NSW 2010 (Online Only)
I am a LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellor deeply passionate about helping LGBTQ+ adults and their allies recognise their strengths, overcome challenges and develop self-awareness tools. I know what it feels like not to feel heard and supported, so I created Tribe Wellness so no one else has to continue feeling this way. My goal is to help you discover solutions that proactively set you up for a better tomorrow. At Tribe Wellness, we offer a strong foundation of support, understanding, and empowerment for those struggling with who they are and how they fit in the world. We are committed to helping you overcome guilt and shame.
I am a LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellor deeply passionate about helping LGBTQ+ adults and their allies recognise their strengths, overcome challenges and develop self-awareness tools. I know what it feels like not to feel heard and supported, so I created Tribe Wellness so no one else has to continue feeling this way. My goal is to help you discover solutions that proactively set you up for a better tomorrow. At Tribe Wellness, we offer a strong foundation of support, understanding, and empowerment for those struggling with who they are and how they fit in the world. We are committed to helping you overcome guilt and shame.
Are you seeking deeper relating skills or wanting to improve your own self-awareness? Do you want to improve your communication and connection with others? Yesterday’s reality may not be the right fit for today-need a hand sorting out what stays and what goes? I am a Gestalt therapist specialising in sexuality, gender and coming out within LBGTQIA+ communities. My psychotherapy and counselling service offers face to face, online, and phone based services specialising in: anxiety and depression, unlocking the vices of shame, Brianspotting, somatic enquiry, nature based therapy, deconstructing masculinity, & trans and gender diverse.
Are you seeking deeper relating skills or wanting to improve your own self-awareness? Do you want to improve your communication and connection with others? Yesterday’s reality may not be the right fit for today-need a hand sorting out what stays and what goes? I am a Gestalt therapist specialising in sexuality, gender and coming out within LBGTQIA+ communities. My psychotherapy and counselling service offers face to face, online, and phone based services specialising in: anxiety and depression, unlocking the vices of shame, Brianspotting, somatic enquiry, nature based therapy, deconstructing masculinity, & trans and gender diverse.
Over the past 20 years I have helped people with diverse experiences, including: Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Perceptions and interpretation of ourselves, Relationships, Sexuality and gender, including LGBTQIA+, Trauma.
My role is to listen, to understand and to identify what it is that you seek help with. Our work will be about building an understanding of what is going on internally and externally for you, in particular, the things about yourself that you may not be aware of. As we gain this understanding of you, it becomes easier for you and I to make sense of what is happening within you, why you act and feel a particular way in certain situations and relationships. By understanding and acting on these things, you will be able to bring about change in your life.
Over the past 20 years I have helped people with diverse experiences, including: Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Perceptions and interpretation of ourselves, Relationships, Sexuality and gender, including LGBTQIA+, Trauma.
My role is to listen, to understand and to identify what it is that you seek help with. Our work will be about building an understanding of what is going on internally and externally for you, in particular, the things about yourself that you may not be aware of. As we gain this understanding of you, it becomes easier for you and I to make sense of what is happening within you, why you act and feel a particular way in certain situations and relationships. By understanding and acting on these things, you will be able to bring about change in your life.
Stickbymecounselling / Psychosexual therapist
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Darlinghurst, NSW 2010
Johanna focuses on working with singles, couples, and families. She also works with men's sexual health difficulties, delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like porn addiction in addition to family therapy, fertility challenges, and low libido, women's sexual health issues, including preconceptions and conception, hypoactive sexual desire disorder .Johanna is sex worker friendly. Johanna is capable of working with poly/open partnerships and is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly. Johanna also works with clients of the NDIS.
Johanna focuses on working with singles, couples, and families. She also works with men's sexual health difficulties, delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like porn addiction in addition to family therapy, fertility challenges, and low libido, women's sexual health issues, including preconceptions and conception, hypoactive sexual desire disorder .Johanna is sex worker friendly. Johanna is capable of working with poly/open partnerships and is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly. Johanna also works with clients of the NDIS.
Danielle Melia - Affirming Wellness
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Darlinghurst, NSW 2010 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
There are a few areas of focus that I love supporting clients with; 1). The intersection of the following specific areas, or simply one of these more nuanced areas; people coping with trauma, understanding and managing their neurodivergence, the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing sexual health and intimacy issues, and trans-friendly and knowledgeable healthcare. 2). Everyday client concerns like managing anxiety, low mood, or relationship challenges. 3). Healthcare professionals grappling with burnout symptoms or demanding standards associated with their careers. 4). Adult ADHD/ Autism assessments.
There are a few areas of focus that I love supporting clients with; 1). The intersection of the following specific areas, or simply one of these more nuanced areas; people coping with trauma, understanding and managing their neurodivergence, the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing sexual health and intimacy issues, and trans-friendly and knowledgeable healthcare. 2). Everyday client concerns like managing anxiety, low mood, or relationship challenges. 3). Healthcare professionals grappling with burnout symptoms or demanding standards associated with their careers. 4). Adult ADHD/ Autism assessments.
I offer online counselling and advocacy services for people who are LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, in diverse relationship structures or with complex health challenges or disability. I am committed to providing a space that is anti-racist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, fat-liberating, sex-positive, neurodiversity-affirming, disability justice-oriented, trauma-informed and anti-oppressive.
I offer online counselling and advocacy services for people who are LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, in diverse relationship structures or with complex health challenges or disability. I am committed to providing a space that is anti-racist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, fat-liberating, sex-positive, neurodiversity-affirming, disability justice-oriented, trauma-informed and anti-oppressive.
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Human Puzzles Counselling & Supervision Services
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Darlinghurst, NSW 2010
My name is Johan Torsteinsrud, and my private practice is called Human Puzzles. I am a Sydney-based professional counsellor with over six years of experience in helping people from all walks of life find their way through life’s many challenges. My counselling sessions are mainly conducted online, either via Zoom or over the phone. This provides a convenient and safe way for people to access support without the added stress of travelling to an office. I strive to create a safe space for all genders, races, cultures, bodies, sexual orientations, family constellations, and relationships.
My name is Johan Torsteinsrud, and my private practice is called Human Puzzles. I am a Sydney-based professional counsellor with over six years of experience in helping people from all walks of life find their way through life’s many challenges. My counselling sessions are mainly conducted online, either via Zoom or over the phone. This provides a convenient and safe way for people to access support without the added stress of travelling to an office. I strive to create a safe space for all genders, races, cultures, bodies, sexual orientations, family constellations, and relationships.
The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones)
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Darlinghurst, NSW 2010 (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.
Hello! I am a Sydney-based professional counsellor who works with people of all ages and from all walks of life. I offer a non-pathologising and humanistic approach to mental health and well-being. Counselling with me focuses on making sense of your experiences and finding meaning in the stories that constitute your life. The therapy is tailored to your needs and our ongoing conversations may explore your feelings, coping strategies, support networks, values, and goals.
Hello! I am a Sydney-based professional counsellor who works with people of all ages and from all walks of life. I offer a non-pathologising and humanistic approach to mental health and well-being. Counselling with me focuses on making sense of your experiences and finding meaning in the stories that constitute your life. The therapy is tailored to your needs and our ongoing conversations may explore your feelings, coping strategies, support networks, values, and goals.
Life can be tough. Talk therapy genuinely helps. I offer support to people who experience: mental health challenges, neurodiversity, existential issues, concerns related to religious and spiritual identity, concerns related to LGBTIQA+ identity, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, addiction, and workplace stress.
Life can be tough. Talk therapy genuinely helps. I offer support to people who experience: mental health challenges, neurodiversity, existential issues, concerns related to religious and spiritual identity, concerns related to LGBTIQA+ identity, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, addiction, and workplace stress.
As an experienced clinical psychologist, I provide clients with a supportive and safe space to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I draw from a range of therapeutic models to address an individuals’ needs and equip them with skills to take on life’s challenges. I aim to be authentic in my practice and to help clients feel at ease in the therapy room. At the heart of my approach is the belief that people are able to grow and evolve in order to live a meaningful life. I feel privileged to be in a position to observe people grow and take this into their lives outside the therapy room.
As an experienced clinical psychologist, I provide clients with a supportive and safe space to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I draw from a range of therapeutic models to address an individuals’ needs and equip them with skills to take on life’s challenges. I aim to be authentic in my practice and to help clients feel at ease in the therapy room. At the heart of my approach is the belief that people are able to grow and evolve in order to live a meaningful life. I feel privileged to be in a position to observe people grow and take this into their lives outside the therapy room.
My goal in therapy is to create a safe, confidential space where you are able to talk openly about your life, without feeling judged. As your therapist, I will give you the time and care to really understand where you are coming from and give you constructive feedback that empowers you to set realistic goals, make appropriate changes and have strong, genuine relationships. In three words I am kind, honest, attuned.
My goal in therapy is to create a safe, confidential space where you are able to talk openly about your life, without feeling judged. As your therapist, I will give you the time and care to really understand where you are coming from and give you constructive feedback that empowers you to set realistic goals, make appropriate changes and have strong, genuine relationships. In three words I am kind, honest, attuned.
Sex & Relationship Therapist | Lara Maree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Darlinghurst, NSW 2010
I believe our sexuality is a unique and integral part of who we are, and deeply connected to our sense of well-being. My approach to Sex Therapy combines a comprehensive understanding of integrative health, sexual function and relational psychology. I firmly believe that a healthy sex life is a fundamental human right, and I know for many of us, traditional sex education has been non-existent or misleading. Unfortunately, difficulties in this area can have a profound negative impact on our self-esteem, relationships, and overall well-being. However, it doesn't have to be this way.
I believe our sexuality is a unique and integral part of who we are, and deeply connected to our sense of well-being. My approach to Sex Therapy combines a comprehensive understanding of integrative health, sexual function and relational psychology. I firmly believe that a healthy sex life is a fundamental human right, and I know for many of us, traditional sex education has been non-existent or misleading. Unfortunately, difficulties in this area can have a profound negative impact on our self-esteem, relationships, and overall well-being. However, it doesn't have to be this way.
Andrew Sloan
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Darlinghurst, NSW 2010 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I help people sort through messy, complicated and stuck experiences. Our world is confusing and complicated (even at the best of times). We often find ourselves stuck, locked or held back by something we don’t fully understand, yet. I bring the best parts of therapy and coaching together. It’s here in this space, that we will make room for clarity, reflection, presence and activating the right kind of change.
I help people sort through messy, complicated and stuck experiences. Our world is confusing and complicated (even at the best of times). We often find ourselves stuck, locked or held back by something we don’t fully understand, yet. I bring the best parts of therapy and coaching together. It’s here in this space, that we will make room for clarity, reflection, presence and activating the right kind of change.
I see psychotherapy as a collaborative journey of self discovery that can lead you to a more engaged and meaningful life. As we are all unique and complex beings, each of us will do this differently. Whether you feel stressed, overwhelmed, angry or depressed about some part of your life, as a therapist I will listen deeply, and hear what you say. Together, through our gentle conversations, we can find insights into your situation and identify the choices that are available to lead you to a better place. In my experience we all have the capacity to heal and grow in a caring and supportive environment.
I see psychotherapy as a collaborative journey of self discovery that can lead you to a more engaged and meaningful life. As we are all unique and complex beings, each of us will do this differently. Whether you feel stressed, overwhelmed, angry or depressed about some part of your life, as a therapist I will listen deeply, and hear what you say. Together, through our gentle conversations, we can find insights into your situation and identify the choices that are available to lead you to a better place. In my experience we all have the capacity to heal and grow in a caring and supportive environment.
See more therapy options for Darlinghurst
Nearby LGBTQ+ Counsellors Searches for Darlinghurst
- Alexandria
- Centennial Park
- Chippendale
- Darlington
- Moore Park
- Paddington
- Redfern
- Surry Hills
- Sydney
- Ultimo
- Waterloo
- Zetland
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.