LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Kensington, NSW

Photo of Gina McClement, MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Gina McClement
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, NSW 2033
We advocate for and affirm neurodiversity and the LGBTQIA+ community.
My expertise is processing stuck and unwanted emotion and behaviours, as well as thriving with ADHD. Founded by Gina McClement, Living In Bloom offers counselling, psychotherapy and ADHD therapy and coaching. I work with my clients to build a flourishing, purposeful and rewarding life, grown from a strong and healthy connection with oneself. The nature of life’s journey is to present us with twists and turns, challenges and adversity, but when we unfold and align with our unique and powerful authentic-self, life as we desire begins to flow. “When things change inside us, they begin to change all around us." (anon)
We advocate for and affirm neurodiversity and the LGBTQIA+ community.
My expertise is processing stuck and unwanted emotion and behaviours, as well as thriving with ADHD. Founded by Gina McClement, Living In Bloom offers counselling, psychotherapy and ADHD therapy and coaching. I work with my clients to build a flourishing, purposeful and rewarding life, grown from a strong and healthy connection with oneself. The nature of life’s journey is to present us with twists and turns, challenges and adversity, but when we unfold and align with our unique and powerful authentic-self, life as we desire begins to flow. “When things change inside us, they begin to change all around us." (anon)
(02) 9100 0943 View (02) 9100 0943
Photo of Tal Schlosser - MyLife Psychologists, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
MyLife Psychologists
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kensington, NSW 2033
Our team of highly skilled and empathetic clinical psychologists have expertise in a range of areas, including working with anxiety and depression (including perinatal), stress and burnout, alcohol and substance use, neurodiversity (ASD and ADHD), relationship issues, grief and loss, insomnia, as well as LGBTQIA+ related concerns.
Our team of experienced Clinical Psychologists provide help to adults, adolescents and couples navigating a wide variety of mental health concerns and challenges. We understand that life can be challenging, and everyone deserves compassionate and professional guidance to navigate these difficulties. At MyLife Psychologists, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next steps to take, we're here to help. It’s important to us that you feel heard and understood – and that you’re not alone.
Our team of highly skilled and empathetic clinical psychologists have expertise in a range of areas, including working with anxiety and depression (including perinatal), stress and burnout, alcohol and substance use, neurodiversity (ASD and ADHD), relationship issues, grief and loss, insomnia, as well as LGBTQIA+ related concerns.
Our team of experienced Clinical Psychologists provide help to adults, adolescents and couples navigating a wide variety of mental health concerns and challenges. We understand that life can be challenging, and everyone deserves compassionate and professional guidance to navigate these difficulties. At MyLife Psychologists, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next steps to take, we're here to help. It’s important to us that you feel heard and understood – and that you’re not alone.
(02) 9100 0547 View (02) 9100 0547
Photo of Isabella Rossettin, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Isabella Rossettin
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Kensington, NSW 2033
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.
(02) 9100 0035 View (02) 9100 0035
Photo of Preeti Phartiyal, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Preeti Phartiyal
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kensington, NSW 2033
I'm a Clinical Psychologist specialising in working with individuals aged 18 and above. I completed my Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Queensland and since have worked in both private and public sectors treating diverse presentations including depression, anxiety, stress, burn out, interpersonal difficulties, and trauma. I aim to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist specialising in working with individuals aged 18 and above. I completed my Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Queensland and since have worked in both private and public sectors treating diverse presentations including depression, anxiety, stress, burn out, interpersonal difficulties, and trauma. I aim to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
(02) 9100 0564 View (02) 9100 0564
Photo of Amelia Walker - Amelia Walker Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor
Amelia Walker Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Kensington, NSW 2033
I work to support expectant & new parents in this time of transition, also those querying gender & sexuality.
Understanding how you experience the world is central to my work as a therapist. I am interested how feelings and thoughts can manifest in our bodies. Gentle exploration of these somatic responses can assist in deeper understanding of our emotional world. Working together, I would support you toward your self-acceptance of challenging thoughts and feelings. Alongside my private practice, I work with a national not-for-profit supporting parents experiencing antenatal and postnatal anxiety, depression and adjustment to parenthood - as a spokesperson, managing clinical intake and clinical writing.
I work to support expectant & new parents in this time of transition, also those querying gender & sexuality.
Understanding how you experience the world is central to my work as a therapist. I am interested how feelings and thoughts can manifest in our bodies. Gentle exploration of these somatic responses can assist in deeper understanding of our emotional world. Working together, I would support you toward your self-acceptance of challenging thoughts and feelings. Alongside my private practice, I work with a national not-for-profit supporting parents experiencing antenatal and postnatal anxiety, depression and adjustment to parenthood - as a spokesperson, managing clinical intake and clinical writing.
(02) 8074 1904 View (02) 8074 1904
Photo of Krystal Ellis - Krystal Ellis Counselling, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krystal Ellis Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Kensington, NSW 2033
I work with clients looking to improve their mental health outcomes using a person-centred and integrative approach.
I work with clients looking to improve their mental health outcomes using a person-centred and integrative approach.
(08) 7948 6663 View (08) 7948 6663
Photo of Enisa Kurtanovich, MA, ACA-L4, Psychotherapist
Enisa Kurtanovich
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Kensington, NSW 2033
I am a multicultural Psychotherapist, Approved Victim Services Counsellor NSW/ACT & International Program Educator with over two decades of global experience working with a diverse group of people from all backgrounds and identities. When you come to see me, my goal is to listen to you with compassion, without any judgment, and provide you with practical advice and effective tools that can help you cope and heal. 

I am passionate about healing past traumas and discovering possibilities for change. I offer a supportive environment where clients can find solutions to life's many complex problems.
I am a multicultural Psychotherapist, Approved Victim Services Counsellor NSW/ACT & International Program Educator with over two decades of global experience working with a diverse group of people from all backgrounds and identities. When you come to see me, my goal is to listen to you with compassion, without any judgment, and provide you with practical advice and effective tools that can help you cope and heal. 

I am passionate about healing past traumas and discovering possibilities for change. I offer a supportive environment where clients can find solutions to life's many complex problems.
(02) 9100 0634 View (02) 9100 0634
Photo of Jenny Lian, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Jenny Lian
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Kensington, NSW 2033
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor(PACFA No. 27709) who provides therapy in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Teochew. My lived experience in both Asia and Australia equips me with a strong understanding of cross cultural and migration issues.
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor(PACFA No. 27709) who provides therapy in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Teochew. My lived experience in both Asia and Australia equips me with a strong understanding of cross cultural and migration issues.
(02) 5118 9019 View (02) 5118 9019

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 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 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 Kevin Vun - inner haven therapy, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
inner haven therapy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Erskineville, NSW 2043  (Online Only)
Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
As an empathetic and inclusive counsellor, I am committed to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds on their unique journeys. With a focus on the queer/ gay, BIPOC, Asian, and male communities, I offer a safe space where clients can explore the full spectrum of the human experience. My holistic approach addresses mental health, well-being, relationships, sexuality, identity, and confidence. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of life, fostering self-discovery and empowering personal growth. Let's embark on a transformative path towards healing, authenticity, and empowerment.
Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
As an empathetic and inclusive counsellor, I am committed to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds on their unique journeys. With a focus on the queer/ gay, BIPOC, Asian, and male communities, I offer a safe space where clients can explore the full spectrum of the human experience. My holistic approach addresses mental health, well-being, relationships, sexuality, identity, and confidence. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of life, fostering self-discovery and empowering personal growth. Let's embark on a transformative path towards healing, authenticity, and empowerment.
(02) 9100 0511 View (02) 9100 0511
Dean McManus
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
At Sanctum Psychology, I treat a wide range of psychological issues. I have specific expertise in treating anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders related to life transitions, grief, stress and burnout, LGBTQIA+ issues around gender and sexuality, relationships, trauma, and addiction. Additionally, autism/ADHD/personality/cognitive testing and Medico-Legal psychological assessment and reports are available. I bring a straightforward and direct psychotherapeutic approach that is trauma-informed, with extensive training in CBT, EMDR and mindfulness.
At Sanctum Psychology, I treat a wide range of psychological issues. I have specific expertise in treating anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders related to life transitions, grief, stress and burnout, LGBTQIA+ issues around gender and sexuality, relationships, trauma, and addiction. Additionally, autism/ADHD/personality/cognitive testing and Medico-Legal psychological assessment and reports are available. I bring a straightforward and direct psychotherapeutic approach that is trauma-informed, with extensive training in CBT, EMDR and mindfulness.
(02) 8000 1025 View (02) 8000 1025
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 Mike van Dijkhuizen, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Mike van Dijkhuizen
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010  (Online Only)
I am clinical psychologist and work with anxiety disorders, depression, addictions, trauma, relationships and sexuality. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQ+ clients, with a queer affirming perspective. 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 clinical psychologist and work with anxiety disorders, depression, addictions, trauma, relationships and sexuality. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQ+ clients, with a queer affirming perspective. 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.
(02) 7804 4107 View (02) 7804 4107
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 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 Ash Rehn, MSc, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ash Rehn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
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.
(02) 9100 0518 View (02) 9100 0518
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 Kensington

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.