LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Northcote, VIC

Photo of Jason Brain, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Jason Brain
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
I offer therapy for clients facing post-traumatic stress, grief and bereavement, issues faced by persons from queer communities, ageing-related issues in older adults, intimacy and vulnerability issues in relationships, maladaptive schemas from childhood trauma, and adult ADHD.
I am a clinical psychologist and psychology supervisor. In my 10 years of practice, I have developed skills and experience in offering trauma therapies (particularly to adults with childhood trauma), acceptance-focused therapies, and working with persons from queer communities. I offer a non-judgmental and accepting therapeutic space, where you can feel safe to explore the things that have been hard to figure out on your own. If you’re here, you’ve started looking for help, which is a good first step. Feel free to contact me for a chat, if you think we might work well together.
I offer therapy for clients facing post-traumatic stress, grief and bereavement, issues faced by persons from queer communities, ageing-related issues in older adults, intimacy and vulnerability issues in relationships, maladaptive schemas from childhood trauma, and adult ADHD.
I am a clinical psychologist and psychology supervisor. In my 10 years of practice, I have developed skills and experience in offering trauma therapies (particularly to adults with childhood trauma), acceptance-focused therapies, and working with persons from queer communities. I offer a non-judgmental and accepting therapeutic space, where you can feel safe to explore the things that have been hard to figure out on your own. If you’re here, you’ve started looking for help, which is a good first step. Feel free to contact me for a chat, if you think we might work well together.
(03) 7003 2943 View (03) 7003 2943
Photo of Matthew Austin, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northcote, VIC 3070
Caring & non-judgemental counselling for LGBTQIA+ folk. You may have been feeling bad about yourself and have noticed that you have been acting in inauthentic ways. Perhaps you are worried others won’t accept the real you. It’s been difficult to share your self-critical thoughts with others. I help LGBTQIA+ folk with a non-Judgmental and caring space to explore and better understand and process their distress.
Caring & non-judgemental counselling for LGBTQIA+ folk. You may have been feeling bad about yourself and have noticed that you have been acting in inauthentic ways. Perhaps you are worried others won’t accept the real you. It’s been difficult to share your self-critical thoughts with others. I help LGBTQIA+ folk with a non-Judgmental and caring space to explore and better understand and process their distress.
(03) 7020 2779 View (03) 7020 2779
Photo of Leigh Davis Elliott, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Leigh Davis Elliott
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
I'm a clinical psychologist working with anxiety, depression, stress, emotional / behavioural dysregulation, shame and trauma. As a queer man, I have a passion for working with the LGBTIQA+ community. I work to create a shared understanding of their current patterns of behaviour and experiences from an attachment, trauma-informed, and developmental lens to heal the parts of themselves that get in the way of them living a meaningful life. I work with people to build up the healthy parts of themselves, learn to ask for their needs to be met and to cope with the difficulties that inevitably arise as part of life and relationships.
I'm a clinical psychologist working with anxiety, depression, stress, emotional / behavioural dysregulation, shame and trauma. As a queer man, I have a passion for working with the LGBTIQA+ community. I work to create a shared understanding of their current patterns of behaviour and experiences from an attachment, trauma-informed, and developmental lens to heal the parts of themselves that get in the way of them living a meaningful life. I work with people to build up the healthy parts of themselves, learn to ask for their needs to be met and to cope with the difficulties that inevitably arise as part of life and relationships.
(03) 7003 2812 View (03) 7003 2812
Photo of Suzanne Bouillet - Zane Bouillet
Zane Bouillet
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
I am also passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community looking for a therapist who already understands the complexities of gender identity, sexuality and/or non-monogamous relationships.
Hello! My name is Zane (they/them) and I am a non-binary and neurodivergent counsellor. I work with adolescents and adults of all genders seeking support with a variety of challenges. These include anxiety, depression, self-worth, navigating neurodiversity (including ADHD and autism), exploring gender identity and/or sexuality, body image issues, grief around life transitions, chronic illness and chronic pain. Are you stuck in cycles of overwhelm that you just can’t seem to get out of? Do you struggle with shame and self-criticism? Do you have a strong sense that something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start?
I am also passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community looking for a therapist who already understands the complexities of gender identity, sexuality and/or non-monogamous relationships.
Hello! My name is Zane (they/them) and I am a non-binary and neurodivergent counsellor. I work with adolescents and adults of all genders seeking support with a variety of challenges. These include anxiety, depression, self-worth, navigating neurodiversity (including ADHD and autism), exploring gender identity and/or sexuality, body image issues, grief around life transitions, chronic illness and chronic pain. Are you stuck in cycles of overwhelm that you just can’t seem to get out of? Do you struggle with shame and self-criticism? Do you have a strong sense that something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start?
(03) 8338 4141 View (03) 8338 4141
Photo of Ben Torrens-Witherow, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Ben Torrens-Witherow
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northcote, VIC 3070  (Online Only)
Ben is a Clinical Psychologist who helps adults to manage life's challenges and journey toward a rich and meaningful life, with a special interest in working with ADHD and queer folk. Ben provides a collaborative space that is warm, safe, and judgement-free. In this space, Ben will empower you to identify your strengths, develop strategies and tools for positive change, boost wellbeing and resilience, and build understanding and acceptance of yourself. Ben’s approach is primarily informed by the evidence-based “Acceptance and Commitment Therapy” (ACT) and Schema Therapy.
Ben is a Clinical Psychologist who helps adults to manage life's challenges and journey toward a rich and meaningful life, with a special interest in working with ADHD and queer folk. Ben provides a collaborative space that is warm, safe, and judgement-free. In this space, Ben will empower you to identify your strengths, develop strategies and tools for positive change, boost wellbeing and resilience, and build understanding and acceptance of yourself. Ben’s approach is primarily informed by the evidence-based “Acceptance and Commitment Therapy” (ACT) and Schema Therapy.
(03) 9111 2664 View (03) 9111 2664
Photo of Lee Cubis, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Lee Cubis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northcote, VIC 3070
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 18 years working in the health and disability sectors (as a support worker, assistant in nursing and Psychologist). I have an interest in working with people from LGBTQIA+ populations including individuals and relationship work. I have a strong understanding of the many ways that intimate relationships are structured. I als work with adults from all populations to manage anxiety disorders using effective and evidence-based interventions. I have a further interest in working with adults with disability including acquired brain injury, intellectual disability, ASD, and neuro-degenerative disease.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 18 years working in the health and disability sectors (as a support worker, assistant in nursing and Psychologist). I have an interest in working with people from LGBTQIA+ populations including individuals and relationship work. I have a strong understanding of the many ways that intimate relationships are structured. I als work with adults from all populations to manage anxiety disorders using effective and evidence-based interventions. I have a further interest in working with adults with disability including acquired brain injury, intellectual disability, ASD, and neuro-degenerative disease.
(03) 6316 1110 View (03) 6316 1110
Photo of Dr Lei Gryffydd, PsychD, MAPS, Psychologist
Dr Lei Gryffydd
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
I am a clinical neuropsychologist specialising in the assessment and treatment of neurodevelopmental conditions (Autism, ADHD & learning conditions) across the lifespan. I am passionate about working with other LGBTQIA+ individuals and provide WPATH assessments for those seeking gender affirming treatment.
I am a clinical neuropsychologist specialising in the assessment and treatment of neurodevelopmental conditions (Autism, ADHD & learning conditions) across the lifespan. I am passionate about working with other LGBTQIA+ individuals and provide WPATH assessments for those seeking gender affirming treatment.
(03) 7003 2372 View (03) 7003 2372
Photo of Jayson Rom, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Jayson Rom
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
Jayson is a psychologist with 18 years of experience working with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples and groups within a range of settings (drug and alcohol, forensic, the LGBTQIA+ community, mental health, sexual health, NDIS, and private practice settings). He has a particular focus on addressing mental health, relationship issues, addiction, trauma and concerns impacting persons from the LGBTQIA+ community.
Jayson is a psychologist with 18 years of experience working with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples and groups within a range of settings (drug and alcohol, forensic, the LGBTQIA+ community, mental health, sexual health, NDIS, and private practice settings). He has a particular focus on addressing mental health, relationship issues, addiction, trauma and concerns impacting persons from the LGBTQIA+ community.
(03) 9068 5653 View (03) 9068 5653
Photo of Claudia Allison - Claudia Allison Counselling & Psychotherapy, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Claudia Allison Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am well-equipped in dealing with issues around gender and sexuality.
I am a Counsellor and Psychotherapist who works from a wholistic, trauma-informed, social justice framework. I believe that each client is unique and individual and I use a client-centred approach. It is important that you feel empowered and in control of the sessions which means that we will work together to find out what works for you and your needs. Areas I am particularly interested in are self-esteem and self-growth, trauma healing, managing anxiety and gender and sexuality exploration.
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am well-equipped in dealing with issues around gender and sexuality.
I am a Counsellor and Psychotherapist who works from a wholistic, trauma-informed, social justice framework. I believe that each client is unique and individual and I use a client-centred approach. It is important that you feel empowered and in control of the sessions which means that we will work together to find out what works for you and your needs. Areas I am particularly interested in are self-esteem and self-growth, trauma healing, managing anxiety and gender and sexuality exploration.
(03) 9344 1562 View (03) 9344 1562
Photo of Felix Perigrie, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Felix Perigrie
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northcote, VIC 3070
Online Australia-wide. I work with teens and adults on the ADHD and Autistic spectrum, LGBTQIA+ folks, and anyone who has ever felt like they don’t fit in with society’s expectations. You’re not alone, and we’re surrounded by messages about how we’re supposed to be and when we don’t measure up it leaves us feeling isolated, wrong and hopeless. But you aren’t the problem, and therapy isn’t about fixing you. You’re already enough, and sometimes we all need a little help in remembering that who we are underneath the mask is someone worth knowing, loving, and learning from.
Online Australia-wide. I work with teens and adults on the ADHD and Autistic spectrum, LGBTQIA+ folks, and anyone who has ever felt like they don’t fit in with society’s expectations. You’re not alone, and we’re surrounded by messages about how we’re supposed to be and when we don’t measure up it leaves us feeling isolated, wrong and hopeless. But you aren’t the problem, and therapy isn’t about fixing you. You’re already enough, and sometimes we all need a little help in remembering that who we are underneath the mask is someone worth knowing, loving, and learning from.
(03) 8592 9249 View (03) 8592 9249
Photo of Dr Jesse Smith, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Jesse Smith
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
LGBTQIA+ (member and ally), neurodiversity affirming, sex worker ally, disability ally.
The Purpose of Therapy.... It may be a holding pattern that will not shift; low mood; feeling fearful or worried; feeling angry; past memories that continue to come back; confusing feelings/responses; disconnection from self/others. In therapy, I aim to help you identify, and process, the factors (memories, beliefs, body responses) underpinning the experiences that you hope to shift. Utilising experiential techniques (emotions, body sensations, memory networks, cognitions, behavioural holding patterns) which provide a deeper level understanding, processing, and lasting change. This is an open, honest, and inclusive space.
LGBTQIA+ (member and ally), neurodiversity affirming, sex worker ally, disability ally.
The Purpose of Therapy.... It may be a holding pattern that will not shift; low mood; feeling fearful or worried; feeling angry; past memories that continue to come back; confusing feelings/responses; disconnection from self/others. In therapy, I aim to help you identify, and process, the factors (memories, beliefs, body responses) underpinning the experiences that you hope to shift. Utilising experiential techniques (emotions, body sensations, memory networks, cognitions, behavioural holding patterns) which provide a deeper level understanding, processing, and lasting change. This is an open, honest, and inclusive space.
(03) 7003 2731 View (03) 7003 2731
Photo of Adam Dalton, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Adam Dalton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
Hi there! I'm Adam (he/him), a registered psychologist practicing in Melbourne's Carlton North. I work with adults who want to create more intentional and meaningful lives, whatever that might look like to them. I'm especially interested in supporting LGBTQIA+ wellbeing, tackling sex and relationship challenges (like intimacy issues, compulsive sexual behaviours, infidelity and break-ups, or navigating non-traditional relationship structures), and helping people break free from unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaving (like critical self-talk, procrastination, or perfectionism).
Hi there! I'm Adam (he/him), a registered psychologist practicing in Melbourne's Carlton North. I work with adults who want to create more intentional and meaningful lives, whatever that might look like to them. I'm especially interested in supporting LGBTQIA+ wellbeing, tackling sex and relationship challenges (like intimacy issues, compulsive sexual behaviours, infidelity and break-ups, or navigating non-traditional relationship structures), and helping people break free from unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaving (like critical self-talk, procrastination, or perfectionism).
(03) 7003 2794 View (03) 7003 2794
Photo of Iris Ravelle Lockyer, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Iris Ravelle Lockyer
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070  (Online Only)
Iris is a counselling psychologist with over a decade of clinical experience working with adults in individual therapy. She is passionate about working collaboratively with her clients towards healing, growth, and wholeness. She is a non-judgemental clinician with a warm, gentle style. Iris is a neurodiversity affirming therapist, and she is LGBTQIA+ affirmative and aware.
Iris is a counselling psychologist with over a decade of clinical experience working with adults in individual therapy. She is passionate about working collaboratively with her clients towards healing, growth, and wholeness. She is a non-judgemental clinician with a warm, gentle style. Iris is a neurodiversity affirming therapist, and she is LGBTQIA+ affirmative and aware.
(03) 9034 8647 View (03) 9034 8647
Photo of Dettie Onus Browne, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dettie Onus Browne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northcote, VIC 3070
I take a collaborative and transparent approach, and love to hear about what modalities and interventions you prefer (and those you do not like!).
Hello, I’m Dettie, a white, non-binary queer and trans person living on the unceded land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. I’m a qualified social worker and therapist, providing counselling for individuals, couples, and families. I have an invested interest in working with neurodivergent people, LGBTIQA+ people and their families, survivors of conversion and suppression practices, people who have used violence in relationships and people who experience complex and/or relational trauma. I work with people of all genders, sexualities, religions/faiths and cultures.
I take a collaborative and transparent approach, and love to hear about what modalities and interventions you prefer (and those you do not like!).
Hello, I’m Dettie, a white, non-binary queer and trans person living on the unceded land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. I’m a qualified social worker and therapist, providing counselling for individuals, couples, and families. I have an invested interest in working with neurodivergent people, LGBTIQA+ people and their families, survivors of conversion and suppression practices, people who have used violence in relationships and people who experience complex and/or relational trauma. I work with people of all genders, sexualities, religions/faiths and cultures.
(03) 7302 2732 View (03) 7302 2732
Photo of Tahlia Blow - Grow Gently Couselling, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grow Gently Couselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
I have a Social Work background with experience in consultation services, child protection, family intervention, clinical mental health services, systems work, senior leadership and management. I am originally from Turrbal and Jagera country but have called Naarm home since mid-2022. My mob are Mununjali, and I am a proud Aboriginal person. I identify as queer and as a proud ADHDer. I appreciate the opportunity to work alongside the LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse communities and am committed to providing queer-affirming and neurodiversity-affirming practices that are trauma-informed and safe.
I have a Social Work background with experience in consultation services, child protection, family intervention, clinical mental health services, systems work, senior leadership and management. I am originally from Turrbal and Jagera country but have called Naarm home since mid-2022. My mob are Mununjali, and I am a proud Aboriginal person. I identify as queer and as a proud ADHDer. I appreciate the opportunity to work alongside the LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse communities and am committed to providing queer-affirming and neurodiversity-affirming practices that are trauma-informed and safe.
(03) 7003 2995 View (03) 7003 2995
Photo of Davina Morley, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Davina Morley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070  (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 Ash Ruskin, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ash Ruskin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northcote, VIC 3070
Ash (she/her) is an accredited social worker and therapist who works with young people and adults from diverse backgrounds and identities, practicing on unceded Wurundjeri country. She specialises in supporting people impacted by various life challenges and often works with people who have experienced anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, family violence, alcohol and drug issues, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, relationship breakdowns and more. She also supports people navigating life transitions and people within the queer community.
Ash (she/her) is an accredited social worker and therapist who works with young people and adults from diverse backgrounds and identities, practicing on unceded Wurundjeri country. She specialises in supporting people impacted by various life challenges and often works with people who have experienced anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, family violence, alcohol and drug issues, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, relationship breakdowns and more. She also supports people navigating life transitions and people within the queer community.
(03) 8338 1602 View (03) 8338 1602
Photo of Zac Morgan, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zac Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and I have experience in community, public mental health as well as counselling. I enjoy working with young people (12+) as well as adults experiencing a range of challenges. I understand that we all hold our own story, and I enjoy exploring this with people to help understand them on an personal level. I hold a particular interest in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and people from diverse backgrounds. I have experience in working with anxiety and mood difficulties, relational difficulties, psychosis, trauma, suicidal thoughts, self-harm and identity issues.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and I have experience in community, public mental health as well as counselling. I enjoy working with young people (12+) as well as adults experiencing a range of challenges. I understand that we all hold our own story, and I enjoy exploring this with people to help understand them on an personal level. I hold a particular interest in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and people from diverse backgrounds. I have experience in working with anxiety and mood difficulties, relational difficulties, psychosis, trauma, suicidal thoughts, self-harm and identity issues.
(03) 7003 2685 View (03) 7003 2685
Photo of Todd Mills, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Todd Mills
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northcote, VIC 3070
I specialise in Trauma and trauma related conditions and work a lot with the LGBTQ+ community.
My name is Todd, I am an Integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with individuals and couples in Melbourne, Australia. I believe that psychotherapy is a powerful tool that can be used as a tool to enrich your life and relationships through increasing self-compassion, self-understanding and insight, or to work through specific life challenges. My work draws heavily on attachment theory, psychodynamic and developmental theory, mindfulness, systems thinking & existentialism. I take a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed approach and always work collaboratively with my clients to identify their unique needs and goals.
I specialise in Trauma and trauma related conditions and work a lot with the LGBTQ+ community.
My name is Todd, I am an Integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor working with individuals and couples in Melbourne, Australia. I believe that psychotherapy is a powerful tool that can be used as a tool to enrich your life and relationships through increasing self-compassion, self-understanding and insight, or to work through specific life challenges. My work draws heavily on attachment theory, psychodynamic and developmental theory, mindfulness, systems thinking & existentialism. I take a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed approach and always work collaboratively with my clients to identify their unique needs and goals.
(03) 7003 2100 View (03) 7003 2100
Photo of Christa Winkels, MA, AThR, Counsellor
Christa Winkels
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
I specialise in and offer support for a range of concerns, including: sex and intimacy, identity, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief and loss, relationships and interpersonal challenges, parenting, perinatal mental health, developmental and complex trauma, eating disorders, anxiety and depression, exploring and connecting with self, and cultivating creativity.
I am an accredited art therapist, social worker, and yoga/movement facilitator with 10+ years experience working within the mental health and family violence sectors. I practice in an integrative and relational way, utilising a range of theories and approaches. I work in collaboration with you to find what best fits your needs, and understand that this can often change from one session to the next. I am drawn to a range of creative, somatic and movement-based practices, and enjoy exploring and co-creating 'safe-enough' spaces to experience curiosity, play, respect, reciprocity, warmth, and connection.
I specialise in and offer support for a range of concerns, including: sex and intimacy, identity, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief and loss, relationships and interpersonal challenges, parenting, perinatal mental health, developmental and complex trauma, eating disorders, anxiety and depression, exploring and connecting with self, and cultivating creativity.
I am an accredited art therapist, social worker, and yoga/movement facilitator with 10+ years experience working within the mental health and family violence sectors. I practice in an integrative and relational way, utilising a range of theories and approaches. I work in collaboration with you to find what best fits your needs, and understand that this can often change from one session to the next. I am drawn to a range of creative, somatic and movement-based practices, and enjoy exploring and co-creating 'safe-enough' spaces to experience curiosity, play, respect, reciprocity, warmth, and connection.
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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.