Transgender Counselling in Sydney, NSW

Photo of Sam Felicity Baran - Sam Baran - Inner Orbit Therapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Sam Baran - Inner Orbit Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
I'm Sam (they/them), a queer non-binary therapist. I offer a judgement-free and affirming space for curious and creative people, including those from the neurodivergent, transgender, and LGBTQIA+ communities. Together, we can unpack hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress, anxiety, and existence with a view of boosting self-esteem and reducing distress. We’ll puzzle out the unique bits that sit at your core and use that understanding to create positive changes in your life and your relationships. My focus is always around making therapy a safe, supportive place where you can embrace and express your authentic self.
I'm Sam (they/them), a queer non-binary therapist. I offer a judgement-free and affirming space for curious and creative people, including those from the neurodivergent, transgender, and LGBTQIA+ communities. Together, we can unpack hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress, anxiety, and existence with a view of boosting self-esteem and reducing distress. We’ll puzzle out the unique bits that sit at your core and use that understanding to create positive changes in your life and your relationships. My focus is always around making therapy a safe, supportive place where you can embrace and express your authentic self.
(02) 8000 1501 View (02) 8000 1501
Photo of Kodi Duruchukwu, PsychD, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist
Kodi Duruchukwu
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
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.
(02) 9159 6657 View (02) 9159 6657
Photo of Corey Ferguson, PsychD, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist
Corey Ferguson
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
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.
(02) 9159 6647 View (02) 9159 6647
Photo of Tracy Proud, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Tracy Proud
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Neutral Bay, NSW 2089
I am an experienced psychotherapist and counsellor, registered with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). My formal training is in Holistic Psychotherapy and Counselling and I have completed training Level 2 in the world recognised and evidence based Gottman Method Couples Therapy. I am accredited with a number of professionals and professional groups including PACFA and ANZPATH (Australia and New Zealand Professionals Association for Transgender Health). I also work therapeutically with people identifying as trans and gender diverse.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and counsellor, registered with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). My formal training is in Holistic Psychotherapy and Counselling and I have completed training Level 2 in the world recognised and evidence based Gottman Method Couples Therapy. I am accredited with a number of professionals and professional groups including PACFA and ANZPATH (Australia and New Zealand Professionals Association for Transgender Health). I also work therapeutically with people identifying as trans and gender diverse.
(02) 9159 6082 View (02) 9159 6082
Photo of Johnny Kieran-Black, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Johnny Kieran-Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Darlington, NSW 2008
I treat a broad range of mental health issues, including Complex PTSD, Gender Dysphoria, depression, anxiety, personality, psychotic and bipolar spectrum and eating disorders.
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.
I treat a broad range of mental health issues, including Complex PTSD, Gender Dysphoria, depression, anxiety, personality, psychotic and bipolar spectrum and eating disorders.
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 El Byrne, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
El Byrne
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
El has worked with a variety of presentations including complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, critical incident response, pain management, and interpersonal relationship difficulties.
Hi, I’m El (She/Her), a bubbly, queer and neurodivergent psychologist who has been working with people from all walks of life and corners of the world for some time. I have a passion for working with people who are of the LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent, First Nations communities, and those who are have experienced traumatic events in their life. 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.
El has worked with a variety of presentations including complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, critical incident response, pain management, and interpersonal relationship difficulties.
Hi, I’m El (She/Her), a bubbly, queer and neurodivergent psychologist who has been working with people from all walks of life and corners of the world for some time. I have a passion for working with people who are of the LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent, First Nations communities, and those who are have experienced traumatic events in their life. 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 0596 View (02) 9100 0596
Photo of Emily Radford, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Emily Radford
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Petersham, NSW 2049  (Online Only)
Hiya! My name is Emily, and my pronouns are they/them. I am a queer, neurodivergent, and non-binary Registered Psychologist. I work with individuals who are 18 years of age or older. My priority is to cultivate a safe, inclusive, and accessible environment. I work with clients with a broad array of presentations, including ADHD, Autism, gender dysphoria, chronic illness/pain/fatigue, interpersonal conflict, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, burnout, PDA, and more. I prioritise the therapeutic relationship and ensure I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your individual needs and goals (irrespective of neurotypical standards).
Hiya! My name is Emily, and my pronouns are they/them. I am a queer, neurodivergent, and non-binary Registered Psychologist. I work with individuals who are 18 years of age or older. My priority is to cultivate a safe, inclusive, and accessible environment. I work with clients with a broad array of presentations, including ADHD, Autism, gender dysphoria, chronic illness/pain/fatigue, interpersonal conflict, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, burnout, PDA, and more. I prioritise the therapeutic relationship and ensure I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your individual needs and goals (irrespective of neurotypical standards).
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Photo of Anthony Arpino - Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy), ACA-L2, Counsellor
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.
(02) 9100 0554 View (02) 9100 0554
Photo of Lexie Robertson, MSc, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Lexie Robertson
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
Camden, NSW 2570
C-PTSD), Anxiety, Grief, Family Issues, Interpersonal Issues, Gender Dysphoria, Sexual Abuse, Burnout (incl.
Originally from Canada, Lexie has now lived in Sydney for over 5 years. She loves candy, golden hour at the beach and keeping up with dogs on Instagram. Lexie's clientele over the years has been wide-ranging and all-embracing. She has worked with people of all genders, aged 3-82 years old. She prioritises building trust and rapport in the therapeutic relationship. Her aim is to meet clients where they are emotionally and provide them the space to explore their inner experience.
C-PTSD), Anxiety, Grief, Family Issues, Interpersonal Issues, Gender Dysphoria, Sexual Abuse, Burnout (incl.
Originally from Canada, Lexie has now lived in Sydney for over 5 years. She loves candy, golden hour at the beach and keeping up with dogs on Instagram. Lexie's clientele over the years has been wide-ranging and all-embracing. She has worked with people of all genders, aged 3-82 years old. She prioritises building trust and rapport in the therapeutic relationship. Her aim is to meet clients where they are emotionally and provide them the space to explore their inner experience.
(02) 4210 5606 View (02) 4210 5606
Photo of Carey Little, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Carey Little
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042  (Online Only)
I work with depression, anxiety, chronic health and health anxiety, adjustment issues, grief and loss, gender questioning/ transgender adults and adolescents and am a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community.
Finding a therapist that fits with you is daunting! I have a relaxed and patient nature and have experience with a wide range of ages, cultures and experiences. I also love a good metaphor, to laugh and to engage humour in our sessions as we work together. We will collaboratively to reconnect you with who you want to be. Together, we will work as a team in a safe and friendly space where there is no judgement only respect for you as an individual. I'm here to help you build a life that is meaningful and fulfilling to you.
I work with depression, anxiety, chronic health and health anxiety, adjustment issues, grief and loss, gender questioning/ transgender adults and adolescents and am a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community.
Finding a therapist that fits with you is daunting! I have a relaxed and patient nature and have experience with a wide range of ages, cultures and experiences. I also love a good metaphor, to laugh and to engage humour in our sessions as we work together. We will collaboratively to reconnect you with who you want to be. Together, we will work as a team in a safe and friendly space where there is no judgement only respect for you as an individual. I'm here to help you build a life that is meaningful and fulfilling to you.
(02) 9100 0680 View (02) 9100 0680
Photo of Broady Robertson, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Broady Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
In my practice, I address a wide range of concerns including, gender identity, gender dysphoria, ADHD, Autism, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, self-esteem issues, addiction, suicidality, interpersonal difficulties, and trauma/abuse.
Hi, I'm Broady (he/him), an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker deeply committed to improving mental health outcomes for neurodivergent individuals and the LGBTIQA+ community. With a personal background as a queer and neurodivergent individual, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, understanding firsthand how stigma and discrimination can adversely affect mental health. I am dedicated to providing trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, sex-positive, and sexuality and gender affirming care, ensuring a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment where everyone is respected for their individuality and encouraged to be themselves.
In my practice, I address a wide range of concerns including, gender identity, gender dysphoria, ADHD, Autism, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, self-esteem issues, addiction, suicidality, interpersonal difficulties, and trauma/abuse.
Hi, I'm Broady (he/him), an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker deeply committed to improving mental health outcomes for neurodivergent individuals and the LGBTIQA+ community. With a personal background as a queer and neurodivergent individual, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, understanding firsthand how stigma and discrimination can adversely affect mental health. I am dedicated to providing trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, sex-positive, and sexuality and gender affirming care, ensuring a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment where everyone is respected for their individuality and encouraged to be themselves.
(03) 7003 2814 View (03) 7003 2814
Photo of Alena Piccolruaz, MPsych, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist
Alena Piccolruaz
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Penshurst, NSW 2222
I have also experience working with kids and adults dealing with Gender Dysphoria, Aspergers, ADHD, ADD,ODD, challenging behaviours and intellectual disabilities.
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
I have also experience working with kids and adults dealing with Gender Dysphoria, Aspergers, ADHD, ADD,ODD, challenging behaviours and intellectual disabilities.
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
(02) 9159 6930 View (02) 9159 6930
Photo of Tara Megan Scott - Tara - Cathartic Collaborations, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara - Cathartic Collaborations
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
Hello! I'm a queer, non-binary, AuDHD’er and I’m passionate about providing authentic support for my community – neurodivergent LGBTQIA+ folks. I especially love working with neurodivergent trans and gender diverse teenagers and young adults – I have extensive experience in exploring gender identity and sexuality, gender dysphoria and pushing back against the binary. My professional special interest is queer and trans inclusive sexual education and healthy relationships - including open, non-monogamous and polyamorous dynamics. My personal special interest is pet rats – please ask me questions if you’re curious!
Hello! I'm a queer, non-binary, AuDHD’er and I’m passionate about providing authentic support for my community – neurodivergent LGBTQIA+ folks. I especially love working with neurodivergent trans and gender diverse teenagers and young adults – I have extensive experience in exploring gender identity and sexuality, gender dysphoria and pushing back against the binary. My professional special interest is queer and trans inclusive sexual education and healthy relationships - including open, non-monogamous and polyamorous dynamics. My personal special interest is pet rats – please ask me questions if you’re curious!
(07) 2100 4431 View (07) 2100 4431
Photo of Davina Morley, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Davina Morley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
I am a queer relationship therapist and registered psychologist, working with LGBTIQA+ people (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, questioning, asexual, and including pansexual, non-binary, and people of diverse sexuality, gender and bodies who use other words to describe themselves or do not label their sexuality or gender). I work with relationships and couples of all sexualities, genders, bodies, and non-monogamous and polyamorous structures including relationship anarchy. I understand barriers to accessing services that marginalised people face, and I try to be as safe as possible for you in therapy.
I am a queer relationship therapist and registered psychologist, working with LGBTIQA+ people (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, questioning, asexual, and including pansexual, non-binary, and people of diverse sexuality, gender and bodies who use other words to describe themselves or do not label their sexuality or gender). I work with relationships and couples of all sexualities, genders, bodies, and non-monogamous and polyamorous structures including relationship anarchy. I understand barriers to accessing services that marginalised people face, and I try to be as safe as possible for you in therapy.
(03) 8413 7355 View (03) 8413 7355
Photo of Amy Harper, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Amy Harper
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Hello, I'm Amy (they/them). I'm a registered Psychologist, and for the past 14 years have been counselling in community organisations with teens and adults. At the heart of my practice is providing trauma informed and affirming care to LGBTIQA+ people, their families and caregivers. My work is underpinned by ethics of social justice and advocacy, and takes into account how our lives are influenced by our context and experiences. I utilise ACT, DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness and Somatic Approaches amongst others to provide an integrative and individualised approach.
Hello, I'm Amy (they/them). I'm a registered Psychologist, and for the past 14 years have been counselling in community organisations with teens and adults. At the heart of my practice is providing trauma informed and affirming care to LGBTIQA+ people, their families and caregivers. My work is underpinned by ethics of social justice and advocacy, and takes into account how our lives are influenced by our context and experiences. I utilise ACT, DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness and Somatic Approaches amongst others to provide an integrative and individualised approach.
(02) 9100 0548 View (02) 9100 0548
Photo of Connor Reed, Counsellor
Connor Reed
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pritchard, NSW 2170  (Online Only)
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. I specialise in working with the trans community, emphasising gender affirming care and sexual wellbeing and pleasure while navigating dysphoria.
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. I specialise in working with the trans community, emphasising gender affirming care and sexual wellbeing and pleasure while navigating dysphoria.
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Photo of Larz Lauer, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Larz Lauer
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
As a holistic, relational, gestalt therapist, my approach is grounded in the present moment, non-pathologising, inclusive and trauma-informed. Through the lens of anti-oppressive practice, I prioritise creating a therapeutic space where all the parts of you are considered, held and deeply respected. In sessions, your healing, growth, and increasing self-awareness is what we co-create in this space. I can support you in connecting with your inner experiences to empower you to make meaningful changes in your life and make deeper connections to yourself, others, and the wider environment.
As a holistic, relational, gestalt therapist, my approach is grounded in the present moment, non-pathologising, inclusive and trauma-informed. Through the lens of anti-oppressive practice, I prioritise creating a therapeutic space where all the parts of you are considered, held and deeply respected. In sessions, your healing, growth, and increasing self-awareness is what we co-create in this space. I can support you in connecting with your inner experiences to empower you to make meaningful changes in your life and make deeper connections to yourself, others, and the wider environment.
(07) 2100 4783 View (07) 2100 4783
Photo of Jess Hodges, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Jess Hodges
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
0408 486 282 View 0408 486 282
Photo of Rae Sabine - Creating Wellbeing Melbourne, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Creating Wellbeing Melbourne
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
***PLEASE CONTACT ME VIA EMAIL*** Hi, I'm Rae (they/them) and I'm a trans non-binary and multiple neurodivergent registered supervisor (I avoids using the term ‘clinical’ to describe the supervision work I do, as I prefer to use non-clinical language in my approaches), arts therapist, and psychotherapist with a lived experience of chronic illness. I have white Anglophone privilege and settler privilege. I experience marginalisation due to living in cisgenderist, binary, neurotypical-centred society. I am very passionate about disability rights, the LGBTQIA+ community and mental health. I am vegan and love animals.
***PLEASE CONTACT ME VIA EMAIL*** Hi, I'm Rae (they/them) and I'm a trans non-binary and multiple neurodivergent registered supervisor (I avoids using the term ‘clinical’ to describe the supervision work I do, as I prefer to use non-clinical language in my approaches), arts therapist, and psychotherapist with a lived experience of chronic illness. I have white Anglophone privilege and settler privilege. I experience marginalisation due to living in cisgenderist, binary, neurotypical-centred society. I am very passionate about disability rights, the LGBTQIA+ community and mental health. I am vegan and love animals.
(03) 7302 2943 View (03) 7302 2943
Photo of Ari Heart - Gender Therapy & Coaching, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Gender Therapy & Coaching
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
My name is Ari Heart. I am a trans non-binary person, a psychotherapist, coach and educator in all things trans wellbeing. I help trans and nonbinary people experience greater clarity, ease and relief, without months or years of ongoing talk therapy. If you are struggling with your identity, dysphoria, your relationship with your body, decisions about transition/gender affirmation, how you can navigate other people, coming out, finding your authentic expression, or any other gender-based challenge, you do not have to be alone with it. We can work together to accelerate your movement towards a meaningful, enjoyable trans life.
My name is Ari Heart. I am a trans non-binary person, a psychotherapist, coach and educator in all things trans wellbeing. I help trans and nonbinary people experience greater clarity, ease and relief, without months or years of ongoing talk therapy. If you are struggling with your identity, dysphoria, your relationship with your body, decisions about transition/gender affirmation, how you can navigate other people, coming out, finding your authentic expression, or any other gender-based challenge, you do not have to be alone with it. We can work together to accelerate your movement towards a meaningful, enjoyable trans life.
(03) 7003 2710 View (03) 7003 2710
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Transgender Counsellors

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognise a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognise a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.