LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Red Deer, AB
I’m a transgender, non-binary, queer, neurodivergent therapist who offers support to adolescents and adults. I specialize in working with queer folks in areas such as gender and sexuality, sex work, sexual violence, depression, anxiety, trauma, and neurodiversity. My work is informed by values of anti-racism, queer theory, and harm reduction. I take a client-centred, affirming approach to sex work, kink, and non-traditional family orientations. I often integrate humour into client interactions to foster genuine connection and build authentic rapport for therapeutic support.
I’m a transgender, non-binary, queer, neurodivergent therapist who offers support to adolescents and adults. I specialize in working with queer folks in areas such as gender and sexuality, sex work, sexual violence, depression, anxiety, trauma, and neurodiversity. My work is informed by values of anti-racism, queer theory, and harm reduction. I take a client-centred, affirming approach to sex work, kink, and non-traditional family orientations. I often integrate humour into client interactions to foster genuine connection and build authentic rapport for therapeutic support.
Forouz Salari Online Counselling & Consulting - AB
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Red Deer, AB T4N (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.
Laura Johnston- Legacy Counselling
Counsellor, MACP, CCC, CCTP, B A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Red Deer, AB T4N
Hi I’m Laura, wife, sister, daughter, hockeymom, amateur ball player, recovering people pleaser, trauma survivor, and counsellor, and I do not believe that your labels define who you are! We are individuals and uniquely and unapologetically imperfect. I enjoy working will all people (kids 10+, men, women, couples, families, LGBTQ+) to find and understand their true authentic self. Whether that be working on coping skills, anxiety, depression, stress, anger, relationship issues, emotion regulation, trauma, etc. I am here for you for whatever you need from a non-judgmental listening ear to vent to, or a deep dive into past trauma.
Hi I’m Laura, wife, sister, daughter, hockeymom, amateur ball player, recovering people pleaser, trauma survivor, and counsellor, and I do not believe that your labels define who you are! We are individuals and uniquely and unapologetically imperfect. I enjoy working will all people (kids 10+, men, women, couples, families, LGBTQ+) to find and understand their true authentic self. Whether that be working on coping skills, anxiety, depression, stress, anger, relationship issues, emotion regulation, trauma, etc. I am here for you for whatever you need from a non-judgmental listening ear to vent to, or a deep dive into past trauma.
I support LGBTQA+, ENM, sex positivity, and spiritual, religious, as well as secular frameworks.
Service not offered to Quebec residents. Do you struggle with emotions, critical self-talk, insecurity, shame, or fear? Is it challenging for you to identify, communicate or prioritize your wants and needs? As a coach in emotional and relational wellness, one of my major missions is to show clients, through embodied experience, how to relate to emotions inner experience in ways that better identify and meet their emotional needs individually and with others. The outcome of this is relief, peace, grounding, and inner trust. My approach is embodied, practical, directive, and structured with offered tools, strategies, and instructions.
I support LGBTQA+, ENM, sex positivity, and spiritual, religious, as well as secular frameworks.
Service not offered to Quebec residents. Do you struggle with emotions, critical self-talk, insecurity, shame, or fear? Is it challenging for you to identify, communicate or prioritize your wants and needs? As a coach in emotional and relational wellness, one of my major missions is to show clients, through embodied experience, how to relate to emotions inner experience in ways that better identify and meet their emotional needs individually and with others. The outcome of this is relief, peace, grounding, and inner trust. My approach is embodied, practical, directive, and structured with offered tools, strategies, and instructions.
I am a safe space for LGBTQ youth, I am culturally sensitive individual, and I believe you are in charge of your own therapy.
Experiencing significant changes and pressures during adolescence can be something hard to navigate. These pressures can be centered around friends, school, and family issues. This heavy load can manifest in many different ways and can cause many teens to act out, pull away from family, and show signs of mental health issues. If you noticed your teen is having changes in behavior, changes to their daily activity, personality changes, mood swings, decline in their sport performance or other favorite activities, it may be time to seek some help.
I am a safe space for LGBTQ youth, I am culturally sensitive individual, and I believe you are in charge of your own therapy.
Experiencing significant changes and pressures during adolescence can be something hard to navigate. These pressures can be centered around friends, school, and family issues. This heavy load can manifest in many different ways and can cause many teens to act out, pull away from family, and show signs of mental health issues. If you noticed your teen is having changes in behavior, changes to their daily activity, personality changes, mood swings, decline in their sport performance or other favorite activities, it may be time to seek some help.
Vanessa McConnell
Psychologist, RPsych, MC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Red Deer, AB T4N (Online Only)
Finding the right fit with a therapist is one of the most important parts of counselling . I work with all my clients to build safety and comfort in exploring areas of their life they want to change. I am dedicated to helping people find ways of being in the world that are meaningful and fulfilling to them. I love working with people exploring different paths and looking to challenge the status quos in their lives, including those walking non-conforming paths. I am also passionate about supporting people work through historical trauma and its present day impact.
Finding the right fit with a therapist is one of the most important parts of counselling . I work with all my clients to build safety and comfort in exploring areas of their life they want to change. I am dedicated to helping people find ways of being in the world that are meaningful and fulfilling to them. I love working with people exploring different paths and looking to challenge the status quos in their lives, including those walking non-conforming paths. I am also passionate about supporting people work through historical trauma and its present day impact.
As well as my Master's degree I have certificates in Addictions Counselling and Child and Youth Behaviour Strategies, Level I and Level II Gottman training for relationships, and experience with LGBTQ2S+ clients.
I have 10+ years working with clients experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, school refusal, friendship concerns, navigating family relationships, suicidal ideation/self-harm, and sexual/gender identity. I have worked with adult and youth clients with these concerns, along with relationships, infidelity, and parenting. My practice also includes working with couples, polycules, and consensual non-monogamy. I feel we all have a huge capacity for resilience and learning and enjoy co-creating successful therapeutic relationships which are trauma-informed and recognize client's lived experiences.
As well as my Master's degree I have certificates in Addictions Counselling and Child and Youth Behaviour Strategies, Level I and Level II Gottman training for relationships, and experience with LGBTQ2S+ clients.
I have 10+ years working with clients experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, school refusal, friendship concerns, navigating family relationships, suicidal ideation/self-harm, and sexual/gender identity. I have worked with adult and youth clients with these concerns, along with relationships, infidelity, and parenting. My practice also includes working with couples, polycules, and consensual non-monogamy. I feel we all have a huge capacity for resilience and learning and enjoy co-creating successful therapeutic relationships which are trauma-informed and recognize client's lived experiences.
Now Offering Walk & Talk Sessions! Are you looking for new ways forward in life? Do you need the space to explore your needs and work towards your dreams? Let’s work together to learn new skills and new ways of being that help you help you heal well and live a fuller life. We’ll find what works for you and use your strengths to repair what’s not working anymore. We’ll talk about your dreams and what you WANT to see happen in your life. Then we’ll get to setting you up to actually ENJOY what you’ve worked so hard to create by living with authenticity, great boundaries, contagious self-confidence, and firm self-respect.
Now Offering Walk & Talk Sessions! Are you looking for new ways forward in life? Do you need the space to explore your needs and work towards your dreams? Let’s work together to learn new skills and new ways of being that help you help you heal well and live a fuller life. We’ll find what works for you and use your strengths to repair what’s not working anymore. We’ll talk about your dreams and what you WANT to see happen in your life. Then we’ll get to setting you up to actually ENJOY what you’ve worked so hard to create by living with authenticity, great boundaries, contagious self-confidence, and firm self-respect.
Thank you for viewing my profile. I feel privileged to work with people who are willing to reveal who they really are in order to help themselves grow and change. It is through the process of self-discovery, reflection, and willingness to make changes that we are able to come closer to being our authentic selves. Gaining insight into your situation, learning about yourself and the issue you are facing, and developing new ways of coping with life's challenges are part of that process.
Thank you for viewing my profile. I feel privileged to work with people who are willing to reveal who they really are in order to help themselves grow and change. It is through the process of self-discovery, reflection, and willingness to make changes that we are able to come closer to being our authentic selves. Gaining insight into your situation, learning about yourself and the issue you are facing, and developing new ways of coping with life's challenges are part of that process.
Renee Joslin
Psychologist, RPsych, MACP, BEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Red Deer, AB T4N
Waitlist for new clients
I see clients in person at my office in Red Deer and online across AB, NT and YK. What would it be like to THRIVE? Are you feeling anxious, depressed or stressed? Would you like to experience more joy in your life? Are you burned out? Wondering what to do next or feeling stuck? Life is a journey. I can support you with a therapy approach that will support you best. I offer a safe place to be heard, gain clarity, and strategies to apply to your situation. I love helping people attain more well-being. Schedule a 15-minute phone consultation to see if we are a good fit.
I see clients in person at my office in Red Deer and online across AB, NT and YK. What would it be like to THRIVE? Are you feeling anxious, depressed or stressed? Would you like to experience more joy in your life? Are you burned out? Wondering what to do next or feeling stuck? Life is a journey. I can support you with a therapy approach that will support you best. I offer a safe place to be heard, gain clarity, and strategies to apply to your situation. I love helping people attain more well-being. Schedule a 15-minute phone consultation to see if we are a good fit.
Shelane Williams
Psychologist, MC, RPsych, PhD
Verified Verified
Red Deer, AB T4N
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.
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I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. I have a Masters in Counselling and have counselled children, youth, adults and families from a variety of backgrounds for over 20 years as a school counsellor, learning assistance teacher, and crisis counsellor for those impacted by sexual violence. I am committed to being an affirming advocate for marginalized and vulnerable minorities, having worked with several organizations addressing diversity, equity and human rights issues. I am EMDR trained and currently taking training in Play Therapy for Children.
Renyou Psychology specializes in Developmental Clinical Psychology in children aged 2-12 years. We also see adolescents with developmental disabilities and offer Autism Spectrum Disorder assessment for adults.
Renyou Psychology specializes in Developmental Clinical Psychology in children aged 2-12 years. We also see adolescents with developmental disabilities and offer Autism Spectrum Disorder assessment for adults.
Tracey Black-Black Counselling Consulting Services Ltd.
Registered Social Worker, MACP, MA, CCC, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Red Deer, AB T4N
Hello, reaching out to a therapist can be hard but you should know is this is a safe place to talk about whatever is going on in your life. I believe in providing a space without judgment, a space to download your story and to provide you a place of support and guidance. Part of my practice is to reach out to you in between sessions because I believe in a person centered approach and support should be ongoing. My goal is to support, guide and advocate so that each person finds movement forward. Life can be challenging and sometimes you just need another person to work things through with. I believe I can help you.
Hello, reaching out to a therapist can be hard but you should know is this is a safe place to talk about whatever is going on in your life. I believe in providing a space without judgment, a space to download your story and to provide you a place of support and guidance. Part of my practice is to reach out to you in between sessions because I believe in a person centered approach and support should be ongoing. My goal is to support, guide and advocate so that each person finds movement forward. Life can be challenging and sometimes you just need another person to work things through with. I believe I can help you.
I specialize in anxiety, trauma, depression, self-worth, relationships, and workplace stress. I have a special interest in working with mothers, teachers, couples, and small business owners. I am passionate about helping you better understand your thoughts and emotions, which will support you in building an authentic life based on your values. I believe that you are the expert in your life and that together we can collaborate to help you meet your goals.
I specialize in anxiety, trauma, depression, self-worth, relationships, and workplace stress. I have a special interest in working with mothers, teachers, couples, and small business owners. I am passionate about helping you better understand your thoughts and emotions, which will support you in building an authentic life based on your values. I believe that you are the expert in your life and that together we can collaborate to help you meet your goals.
H.I.L.O.M. Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, CCC, TPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Red Deer, AB T4R (Online Only)
Life can be difficult. There are times when it is more challenging. Sometimes, it can be overwhelming especially if we do not have the proper support we need. There are also those people who struggled with multiple barriers because of background, ethnicity, sexual orientation, economic status, age, and other related factors. Because of these, they went through a lot of trauma which created a huge impact in their lives. They want to heal from their hurts and develop towards becoming the best versions of themselves.
Life can be difficult. There are times when it is more challenging. Sometimes, it can be overwhelming especially if we do not have the proper support we need. There are also those people who struggled with multiple barriers because of background, ethnicity, sexual orientation, economic status, age, and other related factors. Because of these, they went through a lot of trauma which created a huge impact in their lives. They want to heal from their hurts and develop towards becoming the best versions of themselves.
Do you have issues with trauma, PTSD, addictions, sexual addiction, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, anger management, nutrition, or other issues? Are you looking for someone to talk to in an empathetic and caring environment where you can say whatever you need? Do you have traumas issues that need to be dealt with without discussing the issues by learning how to deal with it in your body? Do you have issues with communication that complicate your relationship or work experience that bring up past issues that need to be dealt with? Are you seeking help, today? Help is right here.
Do you have issues with trauma, PTSD, addictions, sexual addiction, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, anger management, nutrition, or other issues? Are you looking for someone to talk to in an empathetic and caring environment where you can say whatever you need? Do you have traumas issues that need to be dealt with without discussing the issues by learning how to deal with it in your body? Do you have issues with communication that complicate your relationship or work experience that bring up past issues that need to be dealt with? Are you seeking help, today? Help is right here.
I have been in the counselling field for 20 years and transitioned into providing therapy to adults in 2021.
I enjoy working with clients who want to explore the origins of their symptoms, whether it is related to past trauma or rooted in unhealthy beliefs or troubling relationship issues. More and more people are struggling with anxiety and depression, it is almost epidemic really. These struggles show up in a host of somatic symptoms, such as sleep issues, body pain, nausea, fatigue, irregularities in appetite, and headaches. In our attempt to escape feelings of emotional overwhelm we turn to other things to distract us. Once we learn to look past these distractions and address our feelings we then open the door to real healing.
I have been in the counselling field for 20 years and transitioned into providing therapy to adults in 2021.
I enjoy working with clients who want to explore the origins of their symptoms, whether it is related to past trauma or rooted in unhealthy beliefs or troubling relationship issues. More and more people are struggling with anxiety and depression, it is almost epidemic really. These struggles show up in a host of somatic symptoms, such as sleep issues, body pain, nausea, fatigue, irregularities in appetite, and headaches. In our attempt to escape feelings of emotional overwhelm we turn to other things to distract us. Once we learn to look past these distractions and address our feelings we then open the door to real healing.
We are a mindful and proactive mental health practice focusing on your mental well-being through psychology, workshops, and healthy workplace cultures. We are committed to a Social Shift using a modern approach to mental health. We offer a variety of mental health supports from our Registered Psychologists and Certified Canadian Counsellors. We are honoured to be able to also offer lower cost therapy services from our Graduate Student Interns for $50/session.
We are a mindful and proactive mental health practice focusing on your mental well-being through psychology, workshops, and healthy workplace cultures. We are committed to a Social Shift using a modern approach to mental health. We offer a variety of mental health supports from our Registered Psychologists and Certified Canadian Counsellors. We are honoured to be able to also offer lower cost therapy services from our Graduate Student Interns for $50/session.
Taylor Austin
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BSW, MA, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Red Deer, AB T4N
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked in the human services industry for over 10 years including roles with child protection, federal corrections, and an intensive care hospital unit. Having worked in numerous front-line jobs, I am an ally and advocate for supporting the mental health of anyone that assists their fellow human. With family in uniform, I also know what it is like to love a first responder. This experience of living and loving the front-line provides a unique opportunity to relate to and support not only PSP, but also their loved ones. Supporting LS, poly, and ENM individuals is also a population that I enjoy working with.
I have worked in the human services industry for over 10 years including roles with child protection, federal corrections, and an intensive care hospital unit. Having worked in numerous front-line jobs, I am an ally and advocate for supporting the mental health of anyone that assists their fellow human. With family in uniform, I also know what it is like to love a first responder. This experience of living and loving the front-line provides a unique opportunity to relate to and support not only PSP, but also their loved ones. Supporting LS, poly, and ENM individuals is also a population that I enjoy working with.
See more therapy options for Red Deer
Nearby LGBTQ+ Counsellors Searches for Red Deer
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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.