LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Haymarket, NSW

Photo of Mathew Roland Bergan, Psychotherapist
Mathew Roland Bergan
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, NSW 2000
I am a Gestalt therapist specialising in sexuality, gender and coming out within LBGTQIA+ communities. My psychotherapy service is also available to the general public face to face, online, and phone based services specialising in: anxiety and depression, unlocking the vices of shame, somatic enquiry, nature based therapy, deconstructing masculinity, & trans and gender diverse. I am also a practitioner of Brianspotting and Harmonic Brain Healing, a psychotherapy technique that helps people process psychological trauma or other problems via eye movements, bilateral stimulation (gentle music), and client therapist attunement.
I am a Gestalt therapist specialising in sexuality, gender and coming out within LBGTQIA+ communities. My psychotherapy service is also available to the general public face to face, online, and phone based services specialising in: anxiety and depression, unlocking the vices of shame, somatic enquiry, nature based therapy, deconstructing masculinity, & trans and gender diverse. I am also a practitioner of Brianspotting and Harmonic Brain Healing, a psychotherapy technique that helps people process psychological trauma or other problems via eye movements, bilateral stimulation (gentle music), and client therapist attunement.
(02) 9100 0130 View (02) 9100 0130
Photo of Riccardo Ingle - Riccardo Ingle Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor
Riccardo Ingle Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Haymarket, NSW 2000
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.
(02) 9100 0023 View (02) 9100 0023
Photo of Andrea Michelle Schilder, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Andrea Michelle Schilder
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Haymarket, NSW 2000
Clinical Psychologist working in Camperdown with 20 years experience treating a wide range of mental health problems including anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, adjustment disorder and psychotic illness.
Clinical Psychologist working in Camperdown with 20 years experience treating a wide range of mental health problems including anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, adjustment disorder and psychotic illness.
(02) 9159 6581 View (02) 9159 6581
Photo of Hamid Reza Dadgostar - HD Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
HD Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Haymarket, NSW 2000
HD psychologists have been serving all communities and individuals for the last 20 years. We focus on ADHD and Autism (including assessments), Asperger, Depression, Anxiety, Children and Adolescent psychology, Stress and Pain management etc. We provide fluent English, Chinese, French and Farsi services. We offer psychological assessment reports such as but not limited to: reports to educational institutions, immigration, expert witness psychological assessment reports for courts. We have immediate availabilities to help you in all situations.
HD psychologists have been serving all communities and individuals for the last 20 years. We focus on ADHD and Autism (including assessments), Asperger, Depression, Anxiety, Children and Adolescent psychology, Stress and Pain management etc. We provide fluent English, Chinese, French and Farsi services. We offer psychological assessment reports such as but not limited to: reports to educational institutions, immigration, expert witness psychological assessment reports for courts. We have immediate availabilities to help you in all situations.
(02) 9158 6085 View (02) 9158 6085
Photo of Anica Vuckovic Taione - Eudaimonia HQ, MSc, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Eudaimonia HQ
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Haymarket, NSW 2000
Our therapeutic process that fosters a positive and nurturing environment for well-being, personal growth, boosting self-esteem, and developing healthier coping strategies. We bring experience in providing support to individuals facing a range of challenges, such as anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, relationship complexities, and various disorders. Additionally, I have extensive expertise in working with neurodiverse clients. My commitment is to assist you on your unique journey toward lasting positive change and fulfilment.
Our therapeutic process that fosters a positive and nurturing environment for well-being, personal growth, boosting self-esteem, and developing healthier coping strategies. We bring experience in providing support to individuals facing a range of challenges, such as anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, relationship complexities, and various disorders. Additionally, I have extensive expertise in working with neurodiverse clients. My commitment is to assist you on your unique journey toward lasting positive change and fulfilment.
(02) 9100 0484 View (02) 9100 0484
Photo of Eileen Seah, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Eileen Seah
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Haymarket, NSW 2000
Eileen is a highly proficient clinical psychologist who provides a warm and supportive environment for you to learn strategies designed for a more fulfilled life. She delivers effective treatment for anxiety, stress, and perfectionism, as well as, a wide range of emotional and life issues, where therapy is tailored to your needs. She utilises an evidence-based approach by drawing upon treatment modalities, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and schema therapy, amongst others. She is highly adept at using therapeutic approaches in an integrated manner, gained from years of experience.
Eileen is a highly proficient clinical psychologist who provides a warm and supportive environment for you to learn strategies designed for a more fulfilled life. She delivers effective treatment for anxiety, stress, and perfectionism, as well as, a wide range of emotional and life issues, where therapy is tailored to your needs. She utilises an evidence-based approach by drawing upon treatment modalities, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and schema therapy, amongst others. She is highly adept at using therapeutic approaches in an integrated manner, gained from years of experience.
(02) 8294 5740 View (02) 8294 5740
Photo of Pikria Meladze, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Pikria Meladze
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Haymarket, NSW 2000
I primarily work with older adolescents aged 16+ years and professional adults wanting help with adjustment to parenthood, ADHD, anxiety, body image/dysmorphia, depression, eating disorders, OCD, parent-adult child estrangement, stress and work-related burnout, childhood trauma and PTSD. I also offer supervision to fully registered Psychologists and Clinical Psychologists.
I primarily work with older adolescents aged 16+ years and professional adults wanting help with adjustment to parenthood, ADHD, anxiety, body image/dysmorphia, depression, eating disorders, OCD, parent-adult child estrangement, stress and work-related burnout, childhood trauma and PTSD. I also offer supervision to fully registered Psychologists and Clinical Psychologists.
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Photo of Kelly Lam - The Feel Project, ACA-L1, Counsellor
The Feel Project
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, NSW 2000
At The Feel Project, we understand that navigating life's challenges can be overwhelming, and seeking support is a courageous step towards well-being. We understand that cultural influences play a significant role in shaping an individual's experiences and perspectives. Our dedicated team of mental health professionals is committed to providing empathetic and personalized counseling services to empower individuals facing a range of issues, from anxiety and depression to work-related stress, cultural conflicts, relationship difficulties, and challenges with self-esteem.
At The Feel Project, we understand that navigating life's challenges can be overwhelming, and seeking support is a courageous step towards well-being. We understand that cultural influences play a significant role in shaping an individual's experiences and perspectives. Our dedicated team of mental health professionals is committed to providing empathetic and personalized counseling services to empower individuals facing a range of issues, from anxiety and depression to work-related stress, cultural conflicts, relationship difficulties, and challenges with self-esteem.
(02) 8776 3729 View (02) 8776 3729

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kodi Duruchukwu, PsychD, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist
Kodi Duruchukwu
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
My main mission is to create a warm and welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the CLAD, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent communities.
Hi I'm Kodi (They/She), I'm a compassionate and dedicated Provisional Psychologist with a strong commitment to supporting clients from CLAD and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds. As a queer, and neurodivergent clinician, my lived experience within the community aids me to innately empathise with experiences clients may be navigating. My experience encompasses a broad array of client presentations, including ADHD, gender identity, gender dysphoria, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, family and relational conflicts, complex trauma/abuse.
My main mission is to create a warm and welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the CLAD, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent communities.
Hi I'm Kodi (They/She), I'm a compassionate and dedicated Provisional Psychologist with a strong commitment to supporting clients from CLAD and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds. As a queer, and neurodivergent clinician, my lived experience within the community aids me to innately empathise with experiences clients may be navigating. My experience encompasses a broad array of client presentations, including ADHD, gender identity, gender dysphoria, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, family and relational conflicts, complex trauma/abuse.
(02) 9159 6657 View (02) 9159 6657
Photo of Dr Neil Lucas, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Neil Lucas
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Alexandria, NSW 2015
My therapy approach focuses on creating a safe and affirming space for all clients, and I bring compassion, empathy, and humour to my therapy sessions. I use evidence-based interventions to address a variety of mental health and psychosocial concerns, including: LGBTQIA+ identity issues, anxiety and mood disorders, ADHD management strategies, alcohol and substance use challenges, and workplace burnout. I aim to create treatment plans that address your individual needs and goals using a strengths-based and collaborative approach.
My therapy approach focuses on creating a safe and affirming space for all clients, and I bring compassion, empathy, and humour to my therapy sessions. I use evidence-based interventions to address a variety of mental health and psychosocial concerns, including: LGBTQIA+ identity issues, anxiety and mood disorders, ADHD management strategies, alcohol and substance use challenges, and workplace burnout. I aim to create treatment plans that address your individual needs and goals using a strengths-based and collaborative approach.
(02) 8000 1692 View (02) 8000 1692
Photo of Corey Ferguson, PsychD, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist
Corey Ferguson
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
My main goal is to create a warm, welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent community.
Hi, I'm Corey (He/Him), I'm a passionate registered psychologist dedicated to supporting neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities. As a queer and neurodivergent clinician, my personal experiences help me deeply empathise with the challenges my clients face. I have extensive experience with a wide range of issues, including ADHD, gender identity, gender dysphoria, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, family and relationship conflicts, and complex trauma and abuse.
My main goal is to create a warm, welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent community.
Hi, I'm Corey (He/Him), I'm a passionate registered psychologist dedicated to supporting neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities. As a queer and neurodivergent clinician, my personal experiences help me deeply empathise with the challenges my clients face. I have extensive experience with a wide range of issues, including ADHD, gender identity, gender dysphoria, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, family and relationship conflicts, and complex trauma and abuse.
(02) 9159 6647 View (02) 9159 6647
Photo of Veronica Gomez, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Veronica Gomez
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042  (Online Only)
On a personal note, I'm a Queer, Neurodivergent Latinx mum of two and have first-hand experience of the challenges and superpowers that come with being Queer and Neurospicey! Reach out to our team and lets start the process to positive therapy journey.
Hi, Im Veronica (She/Her), a bubbly, queer and neurodivergent psychologist who has been working as a psychologist since 2010 and prides myself on my ability and experience with working with people from all walks of life and corners of the world. I have a passion for working with people who are of the LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent, First Nations communities, and those who are Culturally and Linguistically Diverse. My strengths are helping clients feel safe to be themselves and to share their story, knowing they will be accepted for who they are. My approach is very down to earth, empathetic and warm.
On a personal note, I'm a Queer, Neurodivergent Latinx mum of two and have first-hand experience of the challenges and superpowers that come with being Queer and Neurospicey! Reach out to our team and lets start the process to positive therapy journey.
Hi, Im Veronica (She/Her), a bubbly, queer and neurodivergent psychologist who has been working as a psychologist since 2010 and prides myself on my ability and experience with working with people from all walks of life and corners of the world. I have a passion for working with people who are of the LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent, First Nations communities, and those who are Culturally and Linguistically Diverse. My strengths are helping clients feel safe to be themselves and to share their story, knowing they will be accepted for who they are. My approach is very down to earth, empathetic and warm.
(02) 9100 0832 View (02) 9100 0832
Photo of James Morandini - King Street Psychology Clinic, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
King Street Psychology Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
We provide clinical sexology services for individuals struggling with sexual dysfunction, sexuality services for LGBTQIA+ individuals navigating shame, internalised homophobia and coming out, psychometric testing for ADHD, Autism, and other disorders, as well as offering treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and much more.
King Street Psychology Clinic provides a safe space for individuals to explore issues relating to their gender, sexuality and general mental health concerns. We are a team of over 15 clinical psychologists, psychologists, clinical neuropsychologists, speech pathologists, and psychiatrists, providing clinical assessment and evidence-based therapies for adults, adolescents, children, and families in the Inner-West of Sydney.
We provide clinical sexology services for individuals struggling with sexual dysfunction, sexuality services for LGBTQIA+ individuals navigating shame, internalised homophobia and coming out, psychometric testing for ADHD, Autism, and other disorders, as well as offering treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and much more.
King Street Psychology Clinic provides a safe space for individuals to explore issues relating to their gender, sexuality and general mental health concerns. We are a team of over 15 clinical psychologists, psychologists, clinical neuropsychologists, speech pathologists, and psychiatrists, providing clinical assessment and evidence-based therapies for adults, adolescents, children, and families in the Inner-West of Sydney.
(02) 9158 6282 View (02) 9158 6282
Photo of Dr Frank Sattler, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Frank Sattler
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
Hi! I'm a clinical psychologist working with individuals and couples. I'm also a board-approved supervisor and registrar program principal supervisor for clinical psychology. With individuals, I use different approaches, such as CBT, relational therapy, LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, exposure therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches. I work with adults and older 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. I'm also a board-approved supervisor and registrar program principal supervisor for clinical psychology. With individuals, I use different approaches, such as CBT, relational therapy, LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, exposure therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches. I work with adults and older 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.
0402 554 491 View 0402 554 491
Photo of Clinton Power, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Clinton Power
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Darlinghurst, NSW 2010
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.
(02) 8188 3842 View (02) 8188 3842
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
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’m gender non-conforming, a proud member of the LGBTIQ+ community and I’ve successfully overcome trauma.
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.
I’m gender non-conforming, a proud member of the LGBTIQ+ community and I’ve successfully overcome trauma.
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
Sydney, NSW 2000
Additionally, Shaun facilitates FREE fortnightly 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 20 years of experience in healthcare.
Additionally, Shaun facilitates FREE fortnightly 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 20 years of experience in healthcare.
(03) 9111 2666 View (03) 9111 2666
Photo of Josh Feeney (Tribe Wellness), PACFA, Counsellor
Josh Feeney (Tribe Wellness)
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010  (Online Only)
Tribe Wellness fills a crucial gap by providing a safe space for LGBTQ+ adults and their allies to openly explore their feelings and experiences without fear of stigma or prejudice.
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 www.tribewellness.com.au 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.
Tribe Wellness fills a crucial gap by providing a safe space for LGBTQ+ adults and their allies to openly explore their feelings and experiences without fear of stigma or prejudice.
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 www.tribewellness.com.au 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.
(02) 9100 0933 View (02) 9100 0933
Photo of Johnny Kieran-Black, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Johnny Kieran-Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Darlington, NSW 2008
My name is Johnny (he/they). I am an Accredited EMDR and Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner. I am interested in working LGBTQIA+ people, young people, survivors of trauma, people experiencing relationship difficulties, people wanting to learn more about who they are, people who use addictive behaviours as a way of managing, including drugs, alcohol, self-harm, eating disordered behaviours and thoughts of suicide. I understand how hard it can be to talk about traumatic experiences and I strive to bring warmth, partnership, acceptance and compassion to all my work.
My name is Johnny (he/they). I am an Accredited EMDR and Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner. I am interested in working LGBTQIA+ people, young people, survivors of trauma, people experiencing relationship difficulties, people wanting to learn more about who they are, people who use addictive behaviours as a way of managing, including drugs, alcohol, self-harm, eating disordered behaviours and thoughts of suicide. I understand how hard it can be to talk about traumatic experiences and I strive to bring warmth, partnership, acceptance and compassion to all my work.
(02) 9100 0621 View (02) 9100 0621
Photo of Rhi Gibson - Rhi Gibson Trauma Informed Counselling, MSc, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhi Gibson Trauma Informed Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AASW
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Hi, I'm Rhi (they/them) an accredited social worker and therapist. As a queer, non-binary person I am dedicated to working alongside LGBTQA+ young people and adults. I am a gender and neurodivergent affirming practitioner that specialises in mental health, relationships, addictions, disability, experiences of violence, and professional supervision. I have 24+ years experience in working alongside people from a range of diverse backgrounds. I am also the founder of a trauma informed martial arts school. I provide compassionate, confidential and non-judgemental counselling, using a range of therapeutic modalities.
Hi, I'm Rhi (they/them) an accredited social worker and therapist. As a queer, non-binary person I am dedicated to working alongside LGBTQA+ young people and adults. I am a gender and neurodivergent affirming practitioner that specialises in mental health, relationships, addictions, disability, experiences of violence, and professional supervision. I have 24+ years experience in working alongside people from a range of diverse backgrounds. I am also the founder of a trauma informed martial arts school. I provide compassionate, confidential and non-judgemental counselling, using a range of therapeutic modalities.
(07) 3132 1774 View (07) 3132 1774

See more therapy options for Haymarket

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.