LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Olds, AB
Taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting, but it's also a courageous move towards positive change. If you are ready to begin your journey, I am here to support you every step of the way. With 25 years of experience, I bring a wealth of knowledge and compassion to my practice at Evergreen Wellness. I work from a person-centered approach, ensuring that you are at the heart of our sessions. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting, but it's also a courageous move towards positive change. If you are ready to begin your journey, I am here to support you every step of the way. With 25 years of experience, I bring a wealth of knowledge and compassion to my practice at Evergreen Wellness. I work from a person-centered approach, ensuring that you are at the heart of our sessions. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Are you feeling weighed down by past trauma, stress or a life change that has you feeling a persistent sense of being stuck? You're not alone in facing these challenges. Many struggle to find joy, meaning, and direction amidst overwhelming emotions and tough decisions. But there is hope and help available. I provide a welcoming space for you to explore your feelings and experiences without judgment.
Are you feeling weighed down by past trauma, stress or a life change that has you feeling a persistent sense of being stuck? You're not alone in facing these challenges. Many struggle to find joy, meaning, and direction amidst overwhelming emotions and tough decisions. But there is hope and help available. I provide a welcoming space for you to explore your feelings and experiences without judgment.
Do you struggle with depression or anxiety that impacts your relationships and day-to-day life? Do you feel overwhelmed just getting through the day? Do you wonder if life and your relationships should feel somehow better? Happier? Maybe you are a parent of a teen who doesn’t act like other kids. Whether they struggle with attention at school and they get in trouble all the time or are depressed and pull away, you are losing hope. You feel worried and unsure how to help your teen, it’s hard to watch them suffering in relationships with their peers, teachers and family members. You want them to be happy, confident, and successful.
Do you struggle with depression or anxiety that impacts your relationships and day-to-day life? Do you feel overwhelmed just getting through the day? Do you wonder if life and your relationships should feel somehow better? Happier? Maybe you are a parent of a teen who doesn’t act like other kids. Whether they struggle with attention at school and they get in trouble all the time or are depressed and pull away, you are losing hope. You feel worried and unsure how to help your teen, it’s hard to watch them suffering in relationships with their peers, teachers and family members. You want them to be happy, confident, and successful.
Are you presently struggling with Anxiety? Depression? Lack of self esteem or confidence? Grief? Or perhaps you have a child who is the one requiring additional support and coping? By coming to therapy you can expect a supportive, non judgement relationship based therapy approach; whereby you or your child can learn the tools and process what is occurring. Sometimes what we think is normal feelings, behaviors or thoughts, may in fact be a sign of something else...let's work together to figure it out.
Are you presently struggling with Anxiety? Depression? Lack of self esteem or confidence? Grief? Or perhaps you have a child who is the one requiring additional support and coping? By coming to therapy you can expect a supportive, non judgement relationship based therapy approach; whereby you or your child can learn the tools and process what is occurring. Sometimes what we think is normal feelings, behaviors or thoughts, may in fact be a sign of something else...let's work together to figure it out.
Shelane Williams
Psychologist, MC, RPsych, PhD
Verified Verified
Olds, AB T4H
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I’m Shelane; a mother of three, yogi and Registered Psychologist from rural Alberta. I enjoy supporting mental, physical and spiritual wellness of clients from various cultural backgrounds. I currently offer counselling for individuals (13+) both in person and online in Red Deer and Olds. In my practice, I strive to create a safe and compassionate space for clients to journey inward. My counselling approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and shaped by therapies centered on mind-body connection.
Hi, I’m Shelane; a mother of three, yogi and Registered Psychologist from rural Alberta. I enjoy supporting mental, physical and spiritual wellness of clients from various cultural backgrounds. I currently offer counselling for individuals (13+) both in person and online in Red Deer and Olds. In my practice, I strive to create a safe and compassionate space for clients to journey inward. My counselling approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and shaped by therapies centered on mind-body connection.
Chances are good if you're reading this profile, you're looking for some professional help. Whether it be individual counselling to help you through a major depressive episode, family therapy to defuse tension and endless fighting, or a consultation about your anxious toddler, depressed adolescent or teenager's self-harming behaviour, Carla's down-to-earth approach to therapy will have you comfortable in minutes and moving forward in a solution focused direction that YOU (not Carla) want to go.
Chances are good if you're reading this profile, you're looking for some professional help. Whether it be individual counselling to help you through a major depressive episode, family therapy to defuse tension and endless fighting, or a consultation about your anxious toddler, depressed adolescent or teenager's self-harming behaviour, Carla's down-to-earth approach to therapy will have you comfortable in minutes and moving forward in a solution focused direction that YOU (not Carla) want to go.
Stop feeling overwhelmed, start slowing down and feeling like you have room to breathe. Have the life you thought you would have. People see you has someone who has everything together. What they don't see is the toll it takes. You care for everyone else first and have high standards for everything you do. It used to feel good to be able to keep everything running smoothly for everyone. Now, it's starting to make you feel stressed and resentful. You notice you're overreacting, or reacting explosively, then the shame hits. Rather than coping strategies that really work, you choose short term fixes that provide relief in harmful ways.
Stop feeling overwhelmed, start slowing down and feeling like you have room to breathe. Have the life you thought you would have. People see you has someone who has everything together. What they don't see is the toll it takes. You care for everyone else first and have high standards for everything you do. It used to feel good to be able to keep everything running smoothly for everyone. Now, it's starting to make you feel stressed and resentful. You notice you're overreacting, or reacting explosively, then the shame hits. Rather than coping strategies that really work, you choose short term fixes that provide relief in harmful ways.
I have a special interest in marriage/relationship counselling as well as working with individuals ages 14+. While my formal education and on-going training provides a strong foundation for working with clients of all ages, it is my relationship with my partner and parenting our teenagers (18 and 15) that greatly influences me as a counsellor and allows me to better understand the ups and downs that accompany relationships and parenting.
I have a special interest in marriage/relationship counselling as well as working with individuals ages 14+. While my formal education and on-going training provides a strong foundation for working with clients of all ages, it is my relationship with my partner and parenting our teenagers (18 and 15) that greatly influences me as a counsellor and allows me to better understand the ups and downs that accompany relationships and parenting.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, stress, relationship issues, or a life transition? I provide individual and couple's therapy to first responders, RCMP, military personnel, and the general public. I offer an integrative approach, meaning I draw from a variety of empirically supported therapeutic modalities to address your goals, whether that be reducing trauma-related symptoms, developing healthy coping mechanisms, improving interpersonal skills, or others. I work from a client-centred orientation and aim to create a warm, empathetic and non-judgmental space for my clients.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, stress, relationship issues, or a life transition? I provide individual and couple's therapy to first responders, RCMP, military personnel, and the general public. I offer an integrative approach, meaning I draw from a variety of empirically supported therapeutic modalities to address your goals, whether that be reducing trauma-related symptoms, developing healthy coping mechanisms, improving interpersonal skills, or others. I work from a client-centred orientation and aim to create a warm, empathetic and non-judgmental space for my clients.
You've taken an important step by being here. Welcome! I'm Annie, a counsellor passionate about supporting women and families through life's transitions. Whether you're a mother seeking balance, a newcomer adjusting to a new culture, a spouse of a veteran, or on a personal development journey, you've come to the right place. I offer a compassionate space to navigate challenges and find resilience. Together, we’ll create a path toward empowerment and well-being. Reach out today—let's start this transformative journey together.
You've taken an important step by being here. Welcome! I'm Annie, a counsellor passionate about supporting women and families through life's transitions. Whether you're a mother seeking balance, a newcomer adjusting to a new culture, a spouse of a veteran, or on a personal development journey, you've come to the right place. I offer a compassionate space to navigate challenges and find resilience. Together, we’ll create a path toward empowerment and well-being. Reach out today—let's start this transformative journey together.
Hi there! I'm Robert, a registered Psychologist dedicated to improving mental well-being. With 10+ years of experience, I specialize in therapy for teenagers and adults facing various challenges, including ADHD, addictions, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, low self-esteem, stress, and trauma. I personalize therapy for each client, offering in-person or virtual sessions. Let's work together to navigate life's challenges. With the rising prevalence of individuals being diagnosis with ADHD, I have diligently sought out specialized training and education to enhance my ability to support and guide my clients.
Hi there! I'm Robert, a registered Psychologist dedicated to improving mental well-being. With 10+ years of experience, I specialize in therapy for teenagers and adults facing various challenges, including ADHD, addictions, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, low self-esteem, stress, and trauma. I personalize therapy for each client, offering in-person or virtual sessions. Let's work together to navigate life's challenges. With the rising prevalence of individuals being diagnosis with ADHD, I have diligently sought out specialized training and education to enhance my ability to support and guide my clients.
Jennifer Thomson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Olds, AB T4H
Not accepting new clients
I believe that life can throws us challenges and some of those challenges may feel harder than others to overcome. I strongly value connection and the need for relationship as a key piece of effectively navigating these life challenges. I strive to offer clients compassion, and the space they need to do this. My hope is that through a strong therapeutic relationship we can create shared meaning to strive towards meaningful change.
I believe that life can throws us challenges and some of those challenges may feel harder than others to overcome. I strongly value connection and the need for relationship as a key piece of effectively navigating these life challenges. I strive to offer clients compassion, and the space they need to do this. My hope is that through a strong therapeutic relationship we can create shared meaning to strive towards meaningful change.
Online Therapists
Forouz Salari Online Counselling & Consulting - AB
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2R (Online Only)
If you identify as a neurodivergent, chronically ill, BIPOC &/or immigrant woman, queer or trans person, then you may be struggling to feel a sense of belonging & acceptance in a world & system that wasn’t built for you & doesn’t capture the unique intersections of your identity & lived experiences. I believe in your inherent capacity to heal, grow, discover who you are, connect deeply with others, and lead a fulfilling life. If you’re committed to self-discovery & healing as part of your ongoing personal growth & professional development, let's work together to put the pieces of your life, work & relationships back into balance.
If you identify as a neurodivergent, chronically ill, BIPOC &/or immigrant woman, queer or trans person, then you may be struggling to feel a sense of belonging & acceptance in a world & system that wasn’t built for you & doesn’t capture the unique intersections of your identity & lived experiences. I believe in your inherent capacity to heal, grow, discover who you are, connect deeply with others, and lead a fulfilling life. If you’re committed to self-discovery & healing as part of your ongoing personal growth & professional development, let's work together to put the pieces of your life, work & relationships back into balance.
Alexander Cameron
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2T (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in mental health, healthy relationships, LGBTQ+ individuals, and men’s issues.
You deserve the fulfilling life that you desire, that is free of distress, struggle and pain. Together we will create a life that is not dictated by automatic thoughts, anxiousness, low mood, or feeling stuck, but rather one that is exciting and without emotional pain and suffering. You deserve to life a fulfilling life that you desire, that is free of distress, struggle and pain. Together we will create a life that is not dictated by automatic thoughts, anxiousness, low mood, or feeling stuck, but rather one that is exciting and without emotional pain and suffering.
I have extensive experience in mental health, healthy relationships, LGBTQ+ individuals, and men’s issues.
You deserve the fulfilling life that you desire, that is free of distress, struggle and pain. Together we will create a life that is not dictated by automatic thoughts, anxiousness, low mood, or feeling stuck, but rather one that is exciting and without emotional pain and suffering. You deserve to life a fulfilling life that you desire, that is free of distress, struggle and pain. Together we will create a life that is not dictated by automatic thoughts, anxiousness, low mood, or feeling stuck, but rather one that is exciting and without emotional pain and suffering.
We are certified with Skipping Stone's Trans Affirming Network, & we are continually working to address bias & engage in anti-racism efforts.
Hello! We are a radtastic group of Psychologists, Psychotherapists, Certified Counsellors & Social Workers in private practice offering therapy & assessment services for our clients - In person:AB; Virtual: NS, YK, AB. We specialize in Trauma, Anxiety, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiversity, Grief/Loss, Identity, Chronic pain/illness, Personal Injury claims, WCB claims, end of life/death/dying, Sex & Relationships, Major Life Transitions (e.g. divorce, marriage), Infertility/Pregnancy Loss, Child Loss, & Assessment including ADHD, Autism, Learning, PsychoEducational, Gifted/School Admissions, MVA Assessment.
We are certified with Skipping Stone's Trans Affirming Network, & we are continually working to address bias & engage in anti-racism efforts.
Hello! We are a radtastic group of Psychologists, Psychotherapists, Certified Counsellors & Social Workers in private practice offering therapy & assessment services for our clients - In person:AB; Virtual: NS, YK, AB. We specialize in Trauma, Anxiety, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiversity, Grief/Loss, Identity, Chronic pain/illness, Personal Injury claims, WCB claims, end of life/death/dying, Sex & Relationships, Major Life Transitions (e.g. divorce, marriage), Infertility/Pregnancy Loss, Child Loss, & Assessment including ADHD, Autism, Learning, PsychoEducational, Gifted/School Admissions, MVA Assessment.
I have a special interest working with the LGBTQ* community and strive to create a safe space for them.
I believe each person is the expert in their own life but sometimes along our journey the lens through which we see the world and ourselves becomes a bit muddied and this impacts the way we behave and react to new experiences. My role in your journey is to help you see clearly again through that lens so you can get back to living more true to your authentic self. I work primarily from an attachment lens and have a gentle, yet direct approach to therapy. I work best with clients who aren't afraid to bring a little humor into sessions when appropriate and safe to do so.
I have a special interest working with the LGBTQ* community and strive to create a safe space for them.
I believe each person is the expert in their own life but sometimes along our journey the lens through which we see the world and ourselves becomes a bit muddied and this impacts the way we behave and react to new experiences. My role in your journey is to help you see clearly again through that lens so you can get back to living more true to your authentic self. I work primarily from an attachment lens and have a gentle, yet direct approach to therapy. I work best with clients who aren't afraid to bring a little humor into sessions when appropriate and safe to do so.
Janelle Morhun
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
I am LGBTQ friendly.
Seeking support is a significant step in your healing journey and I am glad that you are here. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space to support my clients in working toward what is most important to them. I have an in-depth understanding of the impact trauma can have on our brains, our day-to-day lives, and our relationships. I am trained in EMDR and use brain-based approaches to heal traumas that keep my clients stuck. I enjoy bringing creativity into the therapy space through art, play, gentle movement, or whatever creativity may look like to you. This creativity helps me to tailor my therapy approach to clients of all ages.
I am LGBTQ friendly.
Seeking support is a significant step in your healing journey and I am glad that you are here. I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space to support my clients in working toward what is most important to them. I have an in-depth understanding of the impact trauma can have on our brains, our day-to-day lives, and our relationships. I am trained in EMDR and use brain-based approaches to heal traumas that keep my clients stuck. I enjoy bringing creativity into the therapy space through art, play, gentle movement, or whatever creativity may look like to you. This creativity helps me to tailor my therapy approach to clients of all ages.
Charis Falardeau
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
Through my life experience, work with clients, and research I have gained extensive knowledge about navigating consensually non-monogamous and queer relationships.
As individuals, we each have a unique set of values that guide us. We may or may not be aware of what these values are, and they may shift over time and with experience. I believe that by understanding what is most important to us we have an opportunity to use this information to manage our thoughts, beliefs, and behaviour in a way that allows for peace of mind and authenticity, which in turn can lead to a meaningful life. Using our values to direct our choices and ground us in who we are can allow us to overcome challenges and put us on the path to becoming our best selves.
Through my life experience, work with clients, and research I have gained extensive knowledge about navigating consensually non-monogamous and queer relationships.
As individuals, we each have a unique set of values that guide us. We may or may not be aware of what these values are, and they may shift over time and with experience. I believe that by understanding what is most important to us we have an opportunity to use this information to manage our thoughts, beliefs, and behaviour in a way that allows for peace of mind and authenticity, which in turn can lead to a meaningful life. Using our values to direct our choices and ground us in who we are can allow us to overcome challenges and put us on the path to becoming our best selves.
Life can bring various challenges, and sometimes our daily struggles can feel overwhelming. I'm here to support you through these difficult times. Whether you're dealing with low mood, anxiety, relationship issues, or trauma, my goal is to help you work towards the future you envision. I believe everyone has the potential to grow and thrive, no matter their current circumstances. My priority is ensuring that my clients feel safe, valued, and heard, while also providing exceptional clinical support. I strive to create an atmosphere that is welcoming for all individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I am LGBTQ+ affirming.
Life can bring various challenges, and sometimes our daily struggles can feel overwhelming. I'm here to support you through these difficult times. Whether you're dealing with low mood, anxiety, relationship issues, or trauma, my goal is to help you work towards the future you envision. I believe everyone has the potential to grow and thrive, no matter their current circumstances. My priority is ensuring that my clients feel safe, valued, and heard, while also providing exceptional clinical support. I strive to create an atmosphere that is welcoming for all individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I am LGBTQ+ affirming.
Ron Griffith
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BKin, MC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2T
I work with adults of all backgrounds and I enjoy supporting people in the LGBTQ+ communities.
My clients say they feel very comfortable working together and they appreciate my genuine, down-to-earth and direct counselling approach that focuses on clients taking concrete ACTION. My ability to create productive connections with clients is mostly due to my life experiences, especially my own difficult journey to achieving good mental health. I love helping my clients discover and apply new perspectives, new life skills, and new ways of being in the world so they can have more satisfying lives. Life shouldn’t only be about surviving... it should be much more about thriving! Book a free, 25-minute consult with me to learn more.
I work with adults of all backgrounds and I enjoy supporting people in the LGBTQ+ communities.
My clients say they feel very comfortable working together and they appreciate my genuine, down-to-earth and direct counselling approach that focuses on clients taking concrete ACTION. My ability to create productive connections with clients is mostly due to my life experiences, especially my own difficult journey to achieving good mental health. I love helping my clients discover and apply new perspectives, new life skills, and new ways of being in the world so they can have more satisfying lives. Life shouldn’t only be about surviving... it should be much more about thriving! Book a free, 25-minute consult with me to learn more.
Bonnie Kelly - Therapy Alberta
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Airdrie, AB T4B
It can be difficult trying to find your way in a world full of change and expectations. Are you struggling with anxiety, confusion, or overwhelm? Feeling misunderstood is exhausting. Have you been targeted and othered for how you dress, love, express or identify? You want to be seen and heard, just as you are, so you can find your unique path and be who you want to be. Going to therapy doesn't have to be hard. You can find a genuine, safe connection with a therapist that sees you for you. I specialize in helping ADHD, neurodiverse, gender diverse, transgender and LGBTQ+ teens and adults find their strengths, connect, and thrive.
It can be difficult trying to find your way in a world full of change and expectations. Are you struggling with anxiety, confusion, or overwhelm? Feeling misunderstood is exhausting. Have you been targeted and othered for how you dress, love, express or identify? You want to be seen and heard, just as you are, so you can find your unique path and be who you want to be. Going to therapy doesn't have to be hard. You can find a genuine, safe connection with a therapist that sees you for you. I specialize in helping ADHD, neurodiverse, gender diverse, transgender and LGBTQ+ teens and adults find their strengths, connect, and thrive.
Ruby Rowan MSW RSW
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2R (Online Only)
I am non-binary and queer, and welcome members of queer and trans communities.
My approach to therapy is practical, creative, humorous, and interactive. Engaging in therapy is a vulnerable and courageous step, and I aim to foster a comfortable, collaborative process. When the tools and skills that were previously helpful are no longer working, I support clients to cultivate new coping skills, and identify potential areas for change and/or acceptance. I am a seasoned therapist who is able to draw from a variety of modalities depending on what comes up for the client.
I am non-binary and queer, and welcome members of queer and trans communities.
My approach to therapy is practical, creative, humorous, and interactive. Engaging in therapy is a vulnerable and courageous step, and I aim to foster a comfortable, collaborative process. When the tools and skills that were previously helpful are no longer working, I support clients to cultivate new coping skills, and identify potential areas for change and/or acceptance. I am a seasoned therapist who is able to draw from a variety of modalities depending on what comes up for the client.
Shaambhavi Sharma
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2P (Online Only)
I also provide culturally competent support for minorities (racial, queer and immigrant populations).
I understand that seeking therapy can be a challenging step, especially when you've felt unable to be your authentic self. If you find yourself at a point where the weight of life's challenges feels overwhelming, or if you're navigating the complexities of identity, changes in life, relationships, or expectations, I am here to support you. My goal is to facilitate your journey of self-discovery and to empower you with insight into what brings you here.
I also provide culturally competent support for minorities (racial, queer and immigrant populations).
I understand that seeking therapy can be a challenging step, especially when you've felt unable to be your authentic self. If you find yourself at a point where the weight of life's challenges feels overwhelming, or if you're navigating the complexities of identity, changes in life, relationships, or expectations, I am here to support you. My goal is to facilitate your journey of self-discovery and to empower you with insight into what brings you here.
Maybe you never feel enough, and what "enough" even looks like may feel uncertain. You might be exhausted from feeling the guilt and shame you don't know how to talk about. Perhaps you think your overwhelming past experiences will never leave you. I work with folks who long to accept and connect with themselves & others but feel stuck and in a loop of self-criticism. As a Korean-Canadian Psychologist with many intersecting identities, I also understand and work with many personal and systemic challenges faced by BIPOC & LGBTQ+ communities. I offer care, skills, and insights to support your growth and discovery of new possibilities.
Maybe you never feel enough, and what "enough" even looks like may feel uncertain. You might be exhausted from feeling the guilt and shame you don't know how to talk about. Perhaps you think your overwhelming past experiences will never leave you. I work with folks who long to accept and connect with themselves & others but feel stuck and in a loop of self-criticism. As a Korean-Canadian Psychologist with many intersecting identities, I also understand and work with many personal and systemic challenges faced by BIPOC & LGBTQ+ communities. I offer care, skills, and insights to support your growth and discovery of new possibilities.
I identify as a Jewish, Indigenous, queer cis female.
I have been a nurse since 1984 and completed my master's of psychology in 2019. Since then I have continued my studies for a doctorate in psychology and I have a private practice. I use my unique position as a nurse and psychotherapist to promote a holistic approach, meeting clients where they are, seeking to understand their situation and what brought them to therapy. I am passionate about collaborating with clients to explore their challenges, strengths, goal setting, and practical skill development. I aim to create a space to support clients as they discover a life that is more meaningful to them.
I identify as a Jewish, Indigenous, queer cis female.
I have been a nurse since 1984 and completed my master's of psychology in 2019. Since then I have continued my studies for a doctorate in psychology and I have a private practice. I use my unique position as a nurse and psychotherapist to promote a holistic approach, meeting clients where they are, seeking to understand their situation and what brought them to therapy. I am passionate about collaborating with clients to explore their challenges, strengths, goal setting, and practical skill development. I aim to create a space to support clients as they discover a life that is more meaningful to them.
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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.