LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Sydney, NSW
![Photo of Anthony Arpino - Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy), ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d46417b-9de9-438a-9708-cc231effe4c4/1/320x400.png)
Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy)
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marrickville, NSW 2204
I provide empathetic and non-judgemental support to adolescents (16+), adults and older adults from the queer, transgender, gender-questioning (LGBTQIA+) and neurodivergent communities in the Sydney area (in-person/online) and Australia-wide (online only). I can help you to manage symptoms of stress, anxiety or depression, improve your mental health, enhance your relationships, explore your sexual/gender identities, work through 'coming out', increase self-esteem or navigate life changes. Life today can be challenging and, at times, seeking therapy can help you work through life's difficulties in a safe, supported way.
I provide empathetic and non-judgemental support to adolescents (16+), adults and older adults from the queer, transgender, gender-questioning (LGBTQIA+) and neurodivergent communities in the Sydney area (in-person/online) and Australia-wide (online only). I can help you to manage symptoms of stress, anxiety or depression, improve your mental health, enhance your relationships, explore your sexual/gender identities, work through 'coming out', increase self-esteem or navigate life changes. Life today can be challenging and, at times, seeking therapy can help you work through life's difficulties in a safe, supported way.
![Photo of Dinah Broyda, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08b596de-d39c-41f4-a0a8-9d2eda7b1217/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Veronica Gomez, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c24be25-5321-41a1-a04e-4188d9f70e75/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Emma Mansell, PsychD, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b683511-ec80-4155-80ff-f062e042d133/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialise in LGBTQIA+ therapy.
Hi, I’m Emma. I’m a therapist supporting people who struggle with mental health/addiction. My areas of specialist experience are trauma, anxiety, depression and substance misuse. I support people who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, grief or loss and addiction. I provide a person centred approach to therapy, which looks at individuals as a whole person. I am a narrative therapist and will look at your story and the patterns of behaviour. My style is relaxed and gentle to help guide you through whatever brings you to therapy.
I specialise in LGBTQIA+ therapy.
Hi, I’m Emma. I’m a therapist supporting people who struggle with mental health/addiction. My areas of specialist experience are trauma, anxiety, depression and substance misuse. I support people who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, grief or loss and addiction. I provide a person centred approach to therapy, which looks at individuals as a whole person. I am a narrative therapist and will look at your story and the patterns of behaviour. My style is relaxed and gentle to help guide you through whatever brings you to therapy.
![Photo of Tania Rose, ACA-L4, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce232a25-e6cc-414c-b7c1-88e13d1b76c9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapist Tania Rose draws from 30+ years of experience providing support for Autistic and ADHD adults through a neurodiversity-affirming and queer-affirming lived-experience lens, Australia-wide. Clients may self-identify or have a diagnosis and wish to build personal capacity and supportive relationships. Tania also supports adults living with Tourettes & Down Syndrome focusing on the unique experience of each individual. Supporting both individuals and relationships, queer, neurodivergent, and differently-abled clients. Ethical Non-Monogamous (ENM) and unique relationship styles welcome. Zoom sessions available.
Psychotherapist Tania Rose draws from 30+ years of experience providing support for Autistic and ADHD adults through a neurodiversity-affirming and queer-affirming lived-experience lens, Australia-wide. Clients may self-identify or have a diagnosis and wish to build personal capacity and supportive relationships. Tania also supports adults living with Tourettes & Down Syndrome focusing on the unique experience of each individual. Supporting both individuals and relationships, queer, neurodivergent, and differently-abled clients. Ethical Non-Monogamous (ENM) and unique relationship styles welcome. Zoom sessions available.
![Photo of Kevin Vun - inner haven therapy, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3ed61dc-e243-4112-9c02-6c5b2c1a908d/1/320x400.png)
inner haven therapy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Erskineville, NSW 2043 (Online Only)
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.
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.
![Photo of Connor Reed, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/967f262a-49c5-4c28-9837-cc099f7026c3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Providing therapy that’s a little bit fruity. Hey I'm Connor, a queer trans man. I use he and they pronouns, with preference switching day-to-day depending on how I feel. My approach to therapy draws from peer work and using my experience a queer individual to build rapport and create a safe space underlined by affirmation and unconditional acceptance of your own queer identity. I aim to empower others along their journey of building self-confidence.
Providing therapy that’s a little bit fruity. Hey I'm Connor, a queer trans man. I use he and they pronouns, with preference switching day-to-day depending on how I feel. My approach to therapy draws from peer work and using my experience a queer individual to build rapport and create a safe space underlined by affirmation and unconditional acceptance of your own queer identity. I aim to empower others along their journey of building self-confidence.
![Photo of Jessica Dolev, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d376dc3a-b2c1-4568-be57-ddac161797eb/2/320x400.png)
Hi! I am Jess - Founder and Clinical Director of Perfectly Imperfect. I am an allistic advocate. I provide neuro-diversity affirming psychology services for autistic, ADHER's, queer, and gender-diverse people, well as those within the neurotypical community struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, family conflict to name a few. We will work on developing self-compassion and self-acceptance, self-care and healthy boundaries.
Hi! I am Jess - Founder and Clinical Director of Perfectly Imperfect. I am an allistic advocate. I provide neuro-diversity affirming psychology services for autistic, ADHER's, queer, and gender-diverse people, well as those within the neurotypical community struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, family conflict to name a few. We will work on developing self-compassion and self-acceptance, self-care and healthy boundaries.
![Photo of Sam Felicity Baran - Sam Baran - Inner Orbit Therapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/526658e0-15dd-4a25-bfbf-c1ddeed37b36/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sam Baran - Inner Orbit Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
“Of all the forces in the universe, the hardest to overcome is force of habit”—Terry Pratchett. As a queer, non-binary (LGBTQIA+) therapist, I offer a judgement-free and affirming space to unpack hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress/anxiety, and existence at whatever pace works for you. Together, we’ll puzzle out the unique bits that make you who you are and use that understanding to equip you with the tools and support you need to make positive changes in your life. My focus is always around making therapy a safe, low-pressure place where you can be yourself, using an anti-oppressive and intersectional framework.
“Of all the forces in the universe, the hardest to overcome is force of habit”—Terry Pratchett. As a queer, non-binary (LGBTQIA+) therapist, I offer a judgement-free and affirming space to unpack hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress/anxiety, and existence at whatever pace works for you. Together, we’ll puzzle out the unique bits that make you who you are and use that understanding to equip you with the tools and support you need to make positive changes in your life. My focus is always around making therapy a safe, low-pressure place where you can be yourself, using an anti-oppressive and intersectional framework.
![Photo of Dr Frank Sattler, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b49a88d6-345d-4910-b501-43e7ec2fa9d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
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. 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.
![Photo of Sam Forbes - Trauma Therapy Emdr Relationships Lgbt, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c5af73-6c0e-42d8-a3f2-ea5163399344/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sam Forbes - Trauma Therapy Emdr Relationships Lgbt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
What would you like to be different in your life? Counselling can help. I've been a therapist for 30 years and I love supporting people to make significant changes in their lives and relationships. There's nothing you can't overcome. I specialise in complex trauma and relationship counselling. I'm queer and LGBTIQ, poly, sex work & BDSM affirming. I’ve worked with people affected by mental health issues, sexual abuse, domestic violence, drugs, racism and disability. Whether it’s counselling for you, for your relationship/s or for someone you care about, I'll support you to overcome the problems that affect you and those you love.
What would you like to be different in your life? Counselling can help. I've been a therapist for 30 years and I love supporting people to make significant changes in their lives and relationships. There's nothing you can't overcome. I specialise in complex trauma and relationship counselling. I'm queer and LGBTIQ, poly, sex work & BDSM affirming. I’ve worked with people affected by mental health issues, sexual abuse, domestic violence, drugs, racism and disability. Whether it’s counselling for you, for your relationship/s or for someone you care about, I'll support you to overcome the problems that affect you and those you love.
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![Photo of Dabaco Sunset, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5654429a-eab6-42c3-b0e0-4a3ea8615268/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of James Morandini - King Street Psychology Clinic, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63f891bc-4123-4b5c-9a02-d6194ec3b230/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Johnny Kieran-Black, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6b199a3-6f02-465c-afa2-6d4fc18b3494/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Josh Feeney (Tribe Wellness), PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f59bcbcd-d03b-4c81-9029-5cc8662ed1c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Josh Feeney (Tribe Wellness)
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, 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.
![Photo of Kodi Duruchukwu, PsychD, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23c3abb1-e0bc-4999-8fb7-a0b21cdf3e61/1/320x400.png)
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.
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.
![Photo of Ash Rehn, MSc, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fdff24e-d2d6-4331-b129-f75d85f59341/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Patrick Eid, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b693b57c-76be-4a3b-8785-ee7ead53aff8/1/320x400.jpeg)
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).
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).
![Photo of Corey Ferguson, PsychD, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93240fd5-7891-4cde-a058-f7c78fad4394/1/320x400.png)
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.
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.
![Photo of Helen Bennett, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8c19cb9-9545-4a8c-bfe5-179cbcb7900f/2/320x400.jpeg)
LGBTQIA+ Affirming Care, Fat Activism, Anxiety, Depression, Substance and Alcohol Use / Dependence, Trauma, Grief, Disordered Eating, Body Image or Self-Image difficulties, Self-Worth and Self-esteem, Chronic illness or Chronic Pain.
You don't need to be alone in how you're feeling and what you are experiencing. Therapy involves working with emotional pain, and in so doing we must access tremendous courage. It has taken courage for you to be considering counselling, to have spoken to a loved one about your mental health, to be here on this website right now, reading this. Empathy is a hostile environment for shame, and I will meet your courage with compassion and connection.
LGBTQIA+ Affirming Care, Fat Activism, Anxiety, Depression, Substance and Alcohol Use / Dependence, Trauma, Grief, Disordered Eating, Body Image or Self-Image difficulties, Self-Worth and Self-esteem, Chronic illness or Chronic Pain.
You don't need to be alone in how you're feeling and what you are experiencing. Therapy involves working with emotional pain, and in so doing we must access tremendous courage. It has taken courage for you to be considering counselling, to have spoken to a loved one about your mental health, to be here on this website right now, reading this. Empathy is a hostile environment for shame, and I will meet your courage with compassion and connection.
See more therapy options for Sydney
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.