LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Hammonds Plains, NS

Photo of Kelsey Chiasson, MACP, RCT-C, Counsellor
Kelsey Chiasson
Counsellor, MACP, RCT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hammonds Plains, NS B4B
Welcome/ Bienvenue! I recognize that reaching out for help can be frightening; my role as a therapist is to provide you with a space to explore your challenges at your own pace. In my practice, I work with individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and lived experiences by providing client-centred counselling services to individuals (18+) and couples. With my own lived experience and theoretical background, I aim to create a welcoming environment for individuals to explore the complexities and stressors of daily life while also navigating the rigorous roads of trauma.
Welcome/ Bienvenue! I recognize that reaching out for help can be frightening; my role as a therapist is to provide you with a space to explore your challenges at your own pace. In my practice, I work with individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and lived experiences by providing client-centred counselling services to individuals (18+) and couples. With my own lived experience and theoretical background, I aim to create a welcoming environment for individuals to explore the complexities and stressors of daily life while also navigating the rigorous roads of trauma.
(902) 224-5189 View (902) 224-5189
Photo of Rebecca MacLean, BA, MACP, RCT-C, Counsellor
Rebecca MacLean
Counsellor, BA, MACP, RCT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hammonds Plains, NS B4B
Working in New Glasgow and Halifax; I specialize in helping younger clients ages 5 and up. I also have a history of working with seniors and have always connected well with this population. I have also served many adult clients during my practicum period. Because I am a young person myself, I come into sessions with an informed understanding of today's climate for young people and my own lived experiences. There are unique pressures that many young people find themselves navigating. Whether it is grade school, university, relationships, body image, self-esteem. anxiety, depression or concerns over financial stability and housing.
Working in New Glasgow and Halifax; I specialize in helping younger clients ages 5 and up. I also have a history of working with seniors and have always connected well with this population. I have also served many adult clients during my practicum period. Because I am a young person myself, I come into sessions with an informed understanding of today's climate for young people and my own lived experiences. There are unique pressures that many young people find themselves navigating. Whether it is grade school, university, relationships, body image, self-esteem. anxiety, depression or concerns over financial stability and housing.
(782) 824-3831 View (782) 824-3831
Photo of Sacha Curran, RSW, MSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
Sacha Curran
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hammonds Plains, NS B3Z
Waitlist for new clients
I work with folks struggling with anxiety and OCD, depression, personality disorders, negative core beliefs stemming from adverse experiences, self-harm, adjustment disorders, chronic and/or terminal illness, grief and loss, caregiver support/burnout, relationship issues, emotional regulation, life transitions, boundaries and self-compassion.
Sometimes life can all add up and we find ourselves wondering “how did I get here?” or feeling stuck, not knowing what direction to take our first step. That is where therapy can help. My approach to therapy is that of genuine care and compassion balanced with gentle nudging towards the life you want to live. How do you want to show up to the world? to yourself? The answer may not be all that clear right now, but if you choose, I would be honored to walk alongside you on your therapeutic journey as you gain an understanding of your stuck points, build on coping skills, reach your goals and come out the other side of the tough stuff.
I work with folks struggling with anxiety and OCD, depression, personality disorders, negative core beliefs stemming from adverse experiences, self-harm, adjustment disorders, chronic and/or terminal illness, grief and loss, caregiver support/burnout, relationship issues, emotional regulation, life transitions, boundaries and self-compassion.
Sometimes life can all add up and we find ourselves wondering “how did I get here?” or feeling stuck, not knowing what direction to take our first step. That is where therapy can help. My approach to therapy is that of genuine care and compassion balanced with gentle nudging towards the life you want to live. How do you want to show up to the world? to yourself? The answer may not be all that clear right now, but if you choose, I would be honored to walk alongside you on your therapeutic journey as you gain an understanding of your stuck points, build on coping skills, reach your goals and come out the other side of the tough stuff.
(782) 824-3144 View (782) 824-3144
Photo of Andrew Gosney - ACCEL Counselling and Psychotherapy, BA , BEd, MEd, CCC, RCT, Counsellor
ACCEL Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, BA , BEd, MEd, CCC, RCT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Hammonds Plains, NS B4B
As your Counsellor, I bring commitment and compassion to everything I do, including my work with my clients. I have been right where you are. Chances are, you’ve already tried a number of strategies including self-help strategies, exercise, yoga, medication, meditation, books or podcasts, and natural remedies. Although some of them might have helped a bit, you are still feeling stuck. Life just doesn’t feel as good as it should, and your relationships are suffering. You find yourself reacting to things you wouldn’t normally, and not being able to handle things as well as you typically are.
As your Counsellor, I bring commitment and compassion to everything I do, including my work with my clients. I have been right where you are. Chances are, you’ve already tried a number of strategies including self-help strategies, exercise, yoga, medication, meditation, books or podcasts, and natural remedies. Although some of them might have helped a bit, you are still feeling stuck. Life just doesn’t feel as good as it should, and your relationships are suffering. You find yourself reacting to things you wouldn’t normally, and not being able to handle things as well as you typically are.
(902) 901-2666 View (902) 901-2666

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Drew Marc Fournier, MEd, RCT-C, Counsellor
Drew Marc Fournier
Counsellor, MEd, RCT-C
Verified Verified
Bedford, NS B4B
As a queer affirmative counsellor I have extensive experience working with that community on topics of identity and orientation.
Welcome to Drew Fournier Counselling Services. Seeking help is the first step to becoming the person you want to be. My goal is to walk that path with you in a safe, non-judgemental setting. With over 15 years working in education, I have a vast set of skills to aid youth and adults experiencing the difficulties of life. As a narrative trauma-informed therapist, I look forward to working together in a gentle and compassionate way.
As a queer affirmative counsellor I have extensive experience working with that community on topics of identity and orientation.
Welcome to Drew Fournier Counselling Services. Seeking help is the first step to becoming the person you want to be. My goal is to walk that path with you in a safe, non-judgemental setting. With over 15 years working in education, I have a vast set of skills to aid youth and adults experiencing the difficulties of life. As a narrative trauma-informed therapist, I look forward to working together in a gentle and compassionate way.
(782) 201-2956 View (782) 201-2956
Photo of Kurt Steeves, BA, SSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kurt Steeves
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3M  (Online Only)
I offer coaching services for life transitions, working towards goals, and supporting organization, planning, and strategizing.
Currently accepting new clients. I am a Queer, pagan, and polyamorous service provider at Pink Opal Counselling. I provide virtual services only. My services are trauma-informed, and grounded in anti-oppressive, feminist, and Queer theories. I have education and training specific to social services, SFBT, mental health, family studies, Queer studies, and psychology. I hope to work with members of the Queer community, those engaged with ethical non-monogamy, and those who may practice alternative spiritualities.
I offer coaching services for life transitions, working towards goals, and supporting organization, planning, and strategizing.
Currently accepting new clients. I am a Queer, pagan, and polyamorous service provider at Pink Opal Counselling. I provide virtual services only. My services are trauma-informed, and grounded in anti-oppressive, feminist, and Queer theories. I have education and training specific to social services, SFBT, mental health, family studies, Queer studies, and psychology. I hope to work with members of the Queer community, those engaged with ethical non-monogamy, and those who may practice alternative spiritualities.
(782) 400-6214 View (782) 400-6214
Photo of Coltan Thompson, RPsych, MEd, MSc, Psychologist
Coltan Thompson
Psychologist, RPsych, MEd, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3L
I work with anxiety, depression and mood problems, trauma and PTSD, religious trauma, relationship issues, regulating emotions, existential issues (life direction, purpose, meaning), and LGBTQ+ issues (see also the issues listed below).
Are you ready to move beyond coping and toward change and healing? I help clients achieve their goals by introducing practical strategies/skills, while simultaneously working through the causes of issues so that symptoms reduce in the long term. This may involve re-evaluating your thinking, improving awareness and regulation of emotions, getting in tune with your values, identifying parts of yourself that are in conflict, or making peace with past experiences. Everyone's' needs are different, so I will work with you to create a personalized treatment approach.
I work with anxiety, depression and mood problems, trauma and PTSD, religious trauma, relationship issues, regulating emotions, existential issues (life direction, purpose, meaning), and LGBTQ+ issues (see also the issues listed below).
Are you ready to move beyond coping and toward change and healing? I help clients achieve their goals by introducing practical strategies/skills, while simultaneously working through the causes of issues so that symptoms reduce in the long term. This may involve re-evaluating your thinking, improving awareness and regulation of emotions, getting in tune with your values, identifying parts of yourself that are in conflict, or making peace with past experiences. Everyone's' needs are different, so I will work with you to create a personalized treatment approach.
(587) 802-3617 View (587) 802-3617
Photo of Ron G Nugent, BSC, MEdPsyc, MEd/C, RCT-C, CCC
Ron G Nugent
Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate, BSC, MEdPsyc, MEd/C, RCT-C, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4B
Waitlist for new clients
As a counsellor I prioritize self-care and self-compassion. I believe taking care of yourself allows you to become the best version of yourself. I have been counselling for over 18 years and have vast experience in family counselling, managing ADHD and Anxiety as well as working with youth in foster care. I am a trauma informed therapist and have experience working with educators and have provided my experience and understanding of the stressors that come with the job. I am a proud supporter and member of the LGBTQ+ community.
As a counsellor I prioritize self-care and self-compassion. I believe taking care of yourself allows you to become the best version of yourself. I have been counselling for over 18 years and have vast experience in family counselling, managing ADHD and Anxiety as well as working with youth in foster care. I am a trauma informed therapist and have experience working with educators and have provided my experience and understanding of the stressors that come with the job. I am a proud supporter and member of the LGBTQ+ community.
(782) 400-6256 View (782) 400-6256
Photo of Markus McIntyre, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Markus McIntyre
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3M  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is grounded in queer, feminist, and anti-oppression theory and centres around the theme of resiliency.
Working with clients across Ontario and Nova Scotia - As a trans, non-binary, queer, neurodiverse, adoptee, living with disabilities, I bring a unique perspective to working with clients who are experiencing challenges regarding gender, sexual orientation, sexuality, disability, identity, relationships, and with people who have experience with adoption and/or the child welfare system. I work with adults and youth, their families, and social circles to provide support and guidance as they navigate transitions and challenges in their lives. I am a qualified secondary assessor for Transition-Related Surgeries for OHIP coverage.
My practice is grounded in queer, feminist, and anti-oppression theory and centres around the theme of resiliency.
Working with clients across Ontario and Nova Scotia - As a trans, non-binary, queer, neurodiverse, adoptee, living with disabilities, I bring a unique perspective to working with clients who are experiencing challenges regarding gender, sexual orientation, sexuality, disability, identity, relationships, and with people who have experience with adoption and/or the child welfare system. I work with adults and youth, their families, and social circles to provide support and guidance as they navigate transitions and challenges in their lives. I am a qualified secondary assessor for Transition-Related Surgeries for OHIP coverage.
(647) 372-1541 View (647) 372-1541
Photo of Jena MacDonald, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jena MacDonald
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3M
I am a counselling student currently attending the Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) program provided through Yorkville University. As part of my practicum position, I am offering affordable virtual/in-person sessions under the supervision of Amy Mackenzie, Registered Counselling Therapist. As someone who identifies as both queer and neurodivergent, I personally understand the importance of working with mental health professionals who are both aware and equipped to fully embrace the diversity and uniqueness of their clients.
I am a counselling student currently attending the Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) program provided through Yorkville University. As part of my practicum position, I am offering affordable virtual/in-person sessions under the supervision of Amy Mackenzie, Registered Counselling Therapist. As someone who identifies as both queer and neurodivergent, I personally understand the importance of working with mental health professionals who are both aware and equipped to fully embrace the diversity and uniqueness of their clients.
(782) 222-6865 View (782) 222-6865
Photo of Alix Munro, BA, MA, CCC, CAIP, Counsellor
Alix Munro
Counsellor, BA, MA, CCC, CAIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lower Sackville, NS B4C
Hello! My name is Alix and I am an AuDHD therapist practicing at Venture Counselling Therapy. My job is to help you meet your goals, not the other way around. I have a special interest in adults and teens who are exploring their autistic identity, or anyone identifying as neurodivergent but also take allistic clients. I also work with neurotypical parents or partners of neurodivergent people. I am a late diagnosed autistic and ADHD queer cis woman.
Hello! My name is Alix and I am an AuDHD therapist practicing at Venture Counselling Therapy. My job is to help you meet your goals, not the other way around. I have a special interest in adults and teens who are exploring their autistic identity, or anyone identifying as neurodivergent but also take allistic clients. I also work with neurotypical parents or partners of neurodivergent people. I am a late diagnosed autistic and ADHD queer cis woman.
(782) 400-5380 View (782) 400-5380
Photo of Jess Marshall, RCT-C, MA, Counsellor
Jess Marshall
Counsellor, RCT-C, MA
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3L  (Online Only)
I am queer, gender queer, a parent, and I have lived experience in non-traditional relationship dynamics.
Feeling disconnected? Perhaps you're struggling to exist in a society that doesn't feel like its accepting of you? I specialize in working with clients who often feel they diverge from societal norms. I have special interest in working with clients who may describe themselves as belonging to these groups: Neurodiverse, LGBTQIA+, Ethically Non-Monogamous, Kinky, and/or those involved in non-traditional family/relationship dynamics. If this is you, now that you are not alone! My experience may not be the same as yours, but through collaboration, we can work together to help find the best treatment methods for your unique situation.
I am queer, gender queer, a parent, and I have lived experience in non-traditional relationship dynamics.
Feeling disconnected? Perhaps you're struggling to exist in a society that doesn't feel like its accepting of you? I specialize in working with clients who often feel they diverge from societal norms. I have special interest in working with clients who may describe themselves as belonging to these groups: Neurodiverse, LGBTQIA+, Ethically Non-Monogamous, Kinky, and/or those involved in non-traditional family/relationship dynamics. If this is you, now that you are not alone! My experience may not be the same as yours, but through collaboration, we can work together to help find the best treatment methods for your unique situation.
View
Photo of Kristen Williams True North Psychological Services - Halifax, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kristen Williams True North Psychological Services - Halifax
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3S
Waitlist for new clients
My experience is informed by working with clients struggling with complex trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, coping with major life- transitions, addictive and compulsive behaviors, as well as grief, loss, and end-of-life.
I have been a registered social worker (RSW) in Nova Scotia since 2022 after immigrating from Los Angeles, California where I practiced as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Prior to HRM, I had been working with formerly unhoused veterans and their families in the Greater Los Angeles community through the US Veterans' Healthcare Administration for ten years. I currently work with adults and older adults (18+), veterans, military, and first responders. Those in the LGBTQ+, multicultural, and polyamorous/ENM communities. As well as many others struggling with mental health challenges.
My experience is informed by working with clients struggling with complex trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, coping with major life- transitions, addictive and compulsive behaviors, as well as grief, loss, and end-of-life.
I have been a registered social worker (RSW) in Nova Scotia since 2022 after immigrating from Los Angeles, California where I practiced as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Prior to HRM, I had been working with formerly unhoused veterans and their families in the Greater Los Angeles community through the US Veterans' Healthcare Administration for ten years. I currently work with adults and older adults (18+), veterans, military, and first responders. Those in the LGBTQ+, multicultural, and polyamorous/ENM communities. As well as many others struggling with mental health challenges.
(782) 201-3847 View (782) 201-3847
Photo of Halit Ozer, RP, MPS, BE, Registered Psychotherapist
Halit Ozer
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MPS, BE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3M
I have experience in a variety of issues, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, family relationship, couples therapy, parenting issues, anger management, LGBTQ+ community, abuse and trauma.
I thrive on navigating my clients through times of emotional distress, depression, anxiety, searching for meaning and purpose, need of connectedness, questioning of identity, values, looking for hope and peace. I feel confident in helping people find inner peace, mental tranquility and emotional calm through counselling and psychotherapy. I believe that a human being who is in search of reducing stress levels, boosting the quality of life, and achieving spiritual and mental sophistication and emotional stability would appreciate guidance and companionship. I would be glad to be at the service of my clients who feel this way.
I have experience in a variety of issues, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, family relationship, couples therapy, parenting issues, anger management, LGBTQ+ community, abuse and trauma.
I thrive on navigating my clients through times of emotional distress, depression, anxiety, searching for meaning and purpose, need of connectedness, questioning of identity, values, looking for hope and peace. I feel confident in helping people find inner peace, mental tranquility and emotional calm through counselling and psychotherapy. I believe that a human being who is in search of reducing stress levels, boosting the quality of life, and achieving spiritual and mental sophistication and emotional stability would appreciate guidance and companionship. I would be glad to be at the service of my clients who feel this way.
(902) 907-5491 View (902) 907-5491
Photo of Neil Silcox, MEd, MFA, RCT-C, Counsellor
Neil Silcox
Counsellor, MEd, MFA, RCT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3K
I am experienced in working with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and queer and trans experiences, and healthy masculinity.
Our minds and hearts have a natural inclination toward healing and wellbeing. Sometimes, however, those natural forces are blocked or stifled by: unhelpful stories we have been told about ourselves, unjust social forces, isolation, trauma, or any number of other challenges. Together, our work will be to unblock those healing systems, and move toward healthier connections with friends, family, community, the natural world, and with yourself. In addition to being a therapist, I work as a theatre artist and post-secondary educator. This other side of my life infuses my sessions with humour and creativity.
I am experienced in working with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and queer and trans experiences, and healthy masculinity.
Our minds and hearts have a natural inclination toward healing and wellbeing. Sometimes, however, those natural forces are blocked or stifled by: unhelpful stories we have been told about ourselves, unjust social forces, isolation, trauma, or any number of other challenges. Together, our work will be to unblock those healing systems, and move toward healthier connections with friends, family, community, the natural world, and with yourself. In addition to being a therapist, I work as a theatre artist and post-secondary educator. This other side of my life infuses my sessions with humour and creativity.
(782) 222-4450 View (782) 222-4450
Photo of Christine Christensen, MEd, RCT, CCC, Counsellor
Christine Christensen
Counsellor, MEd, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3M
Waitlist for new clients
Chris identifies as a member of the queer community and she has experience working with diverse clients in areas such as anxiety, depression, gender identity, sexuality, life transitions, relationships, and stress management.
Online booking - Chris (She/Her) recognizes that it is sometimes challenging to feel a sense of purpose and to feel connected to your life and to others around you. People often seek counselling when they are feeling overwhelmed or are looking for ways to heal from the past. Chris’s approach to counselling is a collaborative one that meets clients where they are. She works with clients to identify goals and strategies. Chris uses a relational, client-centred approach to counselling that integrates strategies from various methodologies including Emotionally Focused and Strengths-Based approaches.
Chris identifies as a member of the queer community and she has experience working with diverse clients in areas such as anxiety, depression, gender identity, sexuality, life transitions, relationships, and stress management.
Online booking - Chris (She/Her) recognizes that it is sometimes challenging to feel a sense of purpose and to feel connected to your life and to others around you. People often seek counselling when they are feeling overwhelmed or are looking for ways to heal from the past. Chris’s approach to counselling is a collaborative one that meets clients where they are. She works with clients to identify goals and strategies. Chris uses a relational, client-centred approach to counselling that integrates strategies from various methodologies including Emotionally Focused and Strengths-Based approaches.
(782) 222-7010 View (782) 222-7010
Photo of Michelle Labine, MA , RCT, RP, CCC, Counsellor
Michelle Labine
Counsellor, MA , RCT, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
29 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3M
My practice is LGBTQ+, sex-positive and welcoming of differences.
My areas of clinical focus are sex therapy, relational health, and trauma. Some challenges my clients face are discrepancies in sexual desire, arousal, pleasure and shame, sexual education, sexual functioning, illness-related sexual changes, and body image. Common themes in my relational work are deepening connection, understanding conflict dynamics and attachment, communication, infidelity, and healing relational wounds and trauma. I work with individuals and partners, in monogamous and CNM relationships. I am trained and experienced in working with neurodivergent (ADHD, Autistic, or AuDHD) partners.
My practice is LGBTQ+, sex-positive and welcoming of differences.
My areas of clinical focus are sex therapy, relational health, and trauma. Some challenges my clients face are discrepancies in sexual desire, arousal, pleasure and shame, sexual education, sexual functioning, illness-related sexual changes, and body image. Common themes in my relational work are deepening connection, understanding conflict dynamics and attachment, communication, infidelity, and healing relational wounds and trauma. I work with individuals and partners, in monogamous and CNM relationships. I am trained and experienced in working with neurodivergent (ADHD, Autistic, or AuDHD) partners.
(782) 312-0152 View (782) 312-0152
Photo of Gillian Paula Marie Enright, MA, RCT-C, CCC, RMT
Gillian Paula Marie Enright
Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate, MA, RCT-C, CCC, RMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3L
Intergenerational body narrative therapy, queer affirmative therapy, and diversity inclusive therapy are utilized.
Hello, my name is Gillian Enright and I sincerely welcome connection with you, regarding your mind-body reactions, symptoms, and responses to life stressors and struggles. For over 25 years, I have supported many individuals and couples in achieving abundant life changes by integrating a somatic/body wholistic narrative approach. I believe our bodies express our deepest beliefs and stories of trauma, sorrow, illness, health and joy. I am dedicated to assisting you in reclaiming and cherishing your resilient body and mind for mental/emotional wellbeing, joy, healing, compassion, social connection and intimate loving relationships
Intergenerational body narrative therapy, queer affirmative therapy, and diversity inclusive therapy are utilized.
Hello, my name is Gillian Enright and I sincerely welcome connection with you, regarding your mind-body reactions, symptoms, and responses to life stressors and struggles. For over 25 years, I have supported many individuals and couples in achieving abundant life changes by integrating a somatic/body wholistic narrative approach. I believe our bodies express our deepest beliefs and stories of trauma, sorrow, illness, health and joy. I am dedicated to assisting you in reclaiming and cherishing your resilient body and mind for mental/emotional wellbeing, joy, healing, compassion, social connection and intimate loving relationships
(782) 201-0676 View (782) 201-0676
Photo of Joanne Doran, MA, Psychologist
Joanne Doran
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4B
Waitlist for new clients
I work with families of gender dysphoric or transgender youth within a trans-inclusive, safe, caring space.
I provide therapy for children and youth who are experiencing a number of life challenges, such as anxiety, stress, trauma or divorce. Children are ideal candidates for early intervention and lasting change is often realized in a short amount of time. In my work with teens, I use a holistic, mindful approach, offering them tools and guidance. Through exploring their life experiences, values and unique strengths, teens develop self-awareness, confidence and self-regulation.
I work with families of gender dysphoric or transgender youth within a trans-inclusive, safe, caring space.
I provide therapy for children and youth who are experiencing a number of life challenges, such as anxiety, stress, trauma or divorce. Children are ideal candidates for early intervention and lasting change is often realized in a short amount of time. In my work with teens, I use a holistic, mindful approach, offering them tools and guidance. Through exploring their life experiences, values and unique strengths, teens develop self-awareness, confidence and self-regulation.
(902) 517-0226 View (902) 517-0226
Photo of Samantha Garland, MA, RCT-C, Counsellor
Samantha Garland
Counsellor, MA, RCT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4A
I'm passionate about creating affirming spaces for LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse individuals, whether it's online or in-person.
You don’t always need a big problem to need support. Just dealing with life’s ups and downs can be tough, and everyone deserves help, even if they can’t put a name to their struggles. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to explore your thoughts and feelings. I offer individual counselling for those aged 14 and older, as well as couples counselling.
I'm passionate about creating affirming spaces for LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse individuals, whether it's online or in-person.
You don’t always need a big problem to need support. Just dealing with life’s ups and downs can be tough, and everyone deserves help, even if they can’t put a name to their struggles. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to explore your thoughts and feelings. I offer individual counselling for those aged 14 and older, as well as couples counselling.
(782) 400-6027 View (782) 400-6027

See more therapy options for Hammonds Plains

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.