LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Lower Sackville, NS
Venture Counselling and Therapy Inc.
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RTC-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lower Sackville, NS B4C
Our private counselling practice offers high-quality mental health services to the greater Halifax area and surrounding communities. The office is located in Lower Sackville, making accessing services convenient for all communities. Our team consists of counselling therapists dedicated to providing compassionate mental health services. In collaboration with you, we will work hard to help you understand and manage challenging life experiences and develop more adaptive ways of relating to yourself, others, and the world around you.
Our private counselling practice offers high-quality mental health services to the greater Halifax area and surrounding communities. The office is located in Lower Sackville, making accessing services convenient for all communities. Our team consists of counselling therapists dedicated to providing compassionate mental health services. In collaboration with you, we will work hard to help you understand and manage challenging life experiences and develop more adaptive ways of relating to yourself, others, and the world around you.
Christine Fall Moore
Counsellor, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
Lower Sackville, NS B4E
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are going through a loss of relationship, health, or another life struggle, I provide a relaxed atmosphere where you are invited to be yourself. This is your time, and I will work with you to help you get as much out of your sessions as possible. Please be sure to check with your insurance to confirm you have coverage for (RCT) Registered Counselling Therapists, usually listed under para-medical with insurances. I offer a 30% discount for the first session (for new clients/on-line format only) to explore the therapy relationship fit and to gather information .
Whether you are going through a loss of relationship, health, or another life struggle, I provide a relaxed atmosphere where you are invited to be yourself. This is your time, and I will work with you to help you get as much out of your sessions as possible. Please be sure to check with your insurance to confirm you have coverage for (RCT) Registered Counselling Therapists, usually listed under para-medical with insurances. I offer a 30% discount for the first session (for new clients/on-line format only) to explore the therapy relationship fit and to gather information .
Sacha Curran
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lower Sackville, NS B4C
Waitlist for new clients
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.
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.
Kelly Call
Counsellor, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lower Sackville, NS B4C
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling overwhelmed these days? Many of us are walking around stuck in a state of fight, flight, or freeze and we may not even be aware. The latest research says that the three ways we can find calm are: connection, safety, and being in the present moment. My goal as a therapist is to provide a space that makes these conditions possible. By engaging with our emotions, our mind, and our body in a safe and integrated way, we can move past "the stuckness" and find hope in places that we didn't think were there.
Feeling overwhelmed these days? Many of us are walking around stuck in a state of fight, flight, or freeze and we may not even be aware. The latest research says that the three ways we can find calm are: connection, safety, and being in the present moment. My goal as a therapist is to provide a space that makes these conditions possible. By engaging with our emotions, our mind, and our body in a safe and integrated way, we can move past "the stuckness" and find hope in places that we didn't think were there.
Melanie Quigg
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lower Sackville, NS B4C
For many people, walking into a therapist’s office can be extremely difficult and anxiety provoking. Melanie recognizes this and is dedicated to creating a therapeutic experience that is comfortable, non-judgmental, and focused on what’s most important to you. Mel will be with you every step of the way in helping you handle all issues that life throws your way as well as meeting your therapeutic goals. Mel is currently accepting clients for in person online and phone therapy.
For many people, walking into a therapist’s office can be extremely difficult and anxiety provoking. Melanie recognizes this and is dedicated to creating a therapeutic experience that is comfortable, non-judgmental, and focused on what’s most important to you. Mel will be with you every step of the way in helping you handle all issues that life throws your way as well as meeting your therapeutic goals. Mel is currently accepting clients for in person online and phone therapy.
Jodi Moore
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lower Sackville, NS B4C
Asking for help isn't easy, so if you've made it this far, it's taken courage and I'm proud of you. Life is filled with struggles that can impact us all, and I take pride in creating a safe space to help better manage lifes stressors. If you are struggling with low mood, lack of motivation, high anxiety, difficult stress, relationship challenges, addictions or how to process past traumas in an effective way, finding a therapist you can connect with is an important first step. I work alongside people appreciating you are the expert of your own life, while also working to provide support and encouragement to help you reach your goals.
Asking for help isn't easy, so if you've made it this far, it's taken courage and I'm proud of you. Life is filled with struggles that can impact us all, and I take pride in creating a safe space to help better manage lifes stressors. If you are struggling with low mood, lack of motivation, high anxiety, difficult stress, relationship challenges, addictions or how to process past traumas in an effective way, finding a therapist you can connect with is an important first step. I work alongside people appreciating you are the expert of your own life, while also working to provide support and encouragement to help you reach your goals.
Marsh-Knickle & Associates.
Psychologist, PhD/Psy, MSc/MA, LMFT, MSW, MASP
Verified Verified
Lower Sackville, NS B4C
We are a well established practice providing confidential, sensitive, personalized psychological and counselling services for adults, teens, children, families and couples in Nova Scotia and beyond. We provide assessment, treatment and relapse prevention services. As we are a group of clinicians with various training we offer evidence based multiple therapeutic techniques. Approaches include EMDR, DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, Marriage and Family Therapy (including Gottman and Systems approaches), Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Attachment Therapy, and various Trauma Based Therapies.
We are a well established practice providing confidential, sensitive, personalized psychological and counselling services for adults, teens, children, families and couples in Nova Scotia and beyond. We provide assessment, treatment and relapse prevention services. As we are a group of clinicians with various training we offer evidence based multiple therapeutic techniques. Approaches include EMDR, DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, Marriage and Family Therapy (including Gottman and Systems approaches), Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Attachment Therapy, and various Trauma Based Therapies.
Nanci Wojcik Counselling and Clinical Supervisor
Counsellor, MEd, CCC, RCT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lower Sackville, NS B4B
Yes, accepting new clients. Online booking at www.aldergrovecounselling.com. I will complete an initial assessment to help determine the depth of your depression, anxiety, unhealthy coping strategies and other areas that may be causing you to feel stuck. We repeat what’s familiar. Even though we know what is dysfunctional, and not working well for us, we repeat behaviours because they are familiar. Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to change its physical structure and function based on input from your experiences, which includes your behaviours, emotions, and thoughts. You can use your mind to change your happiness.
Yes, accepting new clients. Online booking at www.aldergrovecounselling.com. I will complete an initial assessment to help determine the depth of your depression, anxiety, unhealthy coping strategies and other areas that may be causing you to feel stuck. We repeat what’s familiar. Even though we know what is dysfunctional, and not working well for us, we repeat behaviours because they are familiar. Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to change its physical structure and function based on input from your experiences, which includes your behaviours, emotions, and thoughts. You can use your mind to change your happiness.
The seeds of change live in all of us. And with the right support, you’d be surprised at how quickly change can happen. At Seagram & Associates, we empower our clients with the support and tools they need to enrich their lives, improve their mental health and inspire growth and development – in life, in work, and in relationships. We believe in our clients and in their capacity to create meaningful change in their lives. We believe that good mental health and wellness are achievable for everyone. And no matter what challenges our clients face, we believe we can help.
The seeds of change live in all of us. And with the right support, you’d be surprised at how quickly change can happen. At Seagram & Associates, we empower our clients with the support and tools they need to enrich their lives, improve their mental health and inspire growth and development – in life, in work, and in relationships. We believe in our clients and in their capacity to create meaningful change in their lives. We believe that good mental health and wellness are achievable for everyone. And no matter what challenges our clients face, we believe we can help.
I provide holistic psychotherapy and wellness counselling to individuals and couples (18 y/o and up). I recognize that working through difficult life circumstances and/or challenging relationships can be stressful and isolating, resulting in feelings of anxiety, low mood, poor coping skills or a general sense of being stuck in a cycle of unhealthy patterns. To move forward, it’s important to honour our lived experiences, accept that deeper emotions are appropriate in certain situations and build trust in ourselves to know the difference.
I provide holistic psychotherapy and wellness counselling to individuals and couples (18 y/o and up). I recognize that working through difficult life circumstances and/or challenging relationships can be stressful and isolating, resulting in feelings of anxiety, low mood, poor coping skills or a general sense of being stuck in a cycle of unhealthy patterns. To move forward, it’s important to honour our lived experiences, accept that deeper emotions are appropriate in certain situations and build trust in ourselves to know the difference.
I work with teens, adults, and couples, who are struggling with things like anxiety, depression, perfectionism, people pleasing, relationship issues, and more. We often need help navigating this ever-changing world, and I'm looking forward to navigating it with you! If you’ve been struggling and are ready for counselling, I’m here to help support you on your journey to mental wellbeing!
I work with teens, adults, and couples, who are struggling with things like anxiety, depression, perfectionism, people pleasing, relationship issues, and more. We often need help navigating this ever-changing world, and I'm looking forward to navigating it with you! If you’ve been struggling and are ready for counselling, I’m here to help support you on your journey to mental wellbeing!
More Therapists Nearby
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ communities; with substance use and addiction concerns; and with people affected by loss, illness and trauma.
I draw on the commonalities that exist between therapeutic approaches, and am aligned with anti-oppression perspectives. I utilize deep, introspective practices and pragmatic, solution-oriented practices to help clients cultivate greater self-compassion; achieve greater effectiveness in their relationships and communities; and grow towards deeper fulfillment in their lives. I am also able to offer a truly holistic therapy, combining talk therapy, mindfulness, and movement. I am a good fit for those impacted by marginalization, those with shame and self-esteem challenges, those impacted by trauma and addiction, and for couples.
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ communities; with substance use and addiction concerns; and with people affected by loss, illness and trauma.
I draw on the commonalities that exist between therapeutic approaches, and am aligned with anti-oppression perspectives. I utilize deep, introspective practices and pragmatic, solution-oriented practices to help clients cultivate greater self-compassion; achieve greater effectiveness in their relationships and communities; and grow towards deeper fulfillment in their lives. I am also able to offer a truly holistic therapy, combining talk therapy, mindfulness, and movement. I am a good fit for those impacted by marginalization, those with shame and self-esteem challenges, those impacted by trauma and addiction, and for couples.
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.
Ron G Nugent
Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate, BSC, MEdPsyc, MEd/C, RCT-C, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4B
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 16 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 16 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.
I am ready to help you! No matter what you are going through, I know that if we can talk about it, we can work it out! I am ready to help you get the tools you need to get back on your feet. I want to get to know you as a person, not just your symptoms, and to help you get back to the things that bring you joy. I am proudly inclusive, queer-friendly, and sex-positive.
I am ready to help you! No matter what you are going through, I know that if we can talk about it, we can work it out! I am ready to help you get the tools you need to get back on your feet. I want to get to know you as a person, not just your symptoms, and to help you get back to the things that bring you joy. I am proudly inclusive, queer-friendly, and sex-positive.
Markus McIntyre
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3M (Online Only)
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.
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.
Kurt Steeves
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3M (Online Only)
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.
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.
My work as a therapist is grounded by my belief in the inherent dignity of all people, the wisdom of our bodies, and our innate capacity to heal. I often work with people who might want to believe these things, too, but struggle to find hope after experiences of trauma or distress. I believe that therapy can help us learn to move through the world with more ease, presence, and compassion (for self and others). As a queer and non-binary therapist, I have a special place in my heart for queer and trans clients. I aim to offer a counselling experience that is safe and that does not require you to justify or explain your identity.
My work as a therapist is grounded by my belief in the inherent dignity of all people, the wisdom of our bodies, and our innate capacity to heal. I often work with people who might want to believe these things, too, but struggle to find hope after experiences of trauma or distress. I believe that therapy can help us learn to move through the world with more ease, presence, and compassion (for self and others). As a queer and non-binary therapist, I have a special place in my heart for queer and trans clients. I aim to offer a counselling experience that is safe and that does not require you to justify or explain your identity.
Halit Khaled Ozer
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MPS, BE
Verified Verified
1 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.
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.
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.
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.
Kristen Williams True North Psychological Services - Halifax
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3S
Waitlist for new clients
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.
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.
Michelle’s practice is LGBTQ+, sex-positive and welcoming of diversity.
Michelle Labine specializes in sex therapy, relationship therapy, and relational and sexual trauma therapy. Michelle works with individuals and partners who experience challenges effecting their personal wellbeing and relationships, including anxiety, changes in sexual desire, changes in sexual functioning, sexual changes related to illness, questioning sexual interest, body image, sexual expectations, sexual communication, partners who are neurodivergent, relationship communication, conflict management and connection, jealousy, infidelity, and consensual non monogamy.
Michelle’s practice is LGBTQ+, sex-positive and welcoming of diversity.
Michelle Labine specializes in sex therapy, relationship therapy, and relational and sexual trauma therapy. Michelle works with individuals and partners who experience challenges effecting their personal wellbeing and relationships, including anxiety, changes in sexual desire, changes in sexual functioning, sexual changes related to illness, questioning sexual interest, body image, sexual expectations, sexual communication, partners who are neurodivergent, relationship communication, conflict management and connection, jealousy, infidelity, and consensual non monogamy.
(Please connect only through email) Hi there! Thank you for taking the time to learn about me and my practice. I’m a registered counselling therapist (candidate) with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. I am a LGBTQIA+, sex, non-monogamy, kink positive therapist. I believe that having a warm, non-judgmental space is imperative to allow for meaningful self-exploration, so as your therapist I vow to give that space to you. I work from a trauma-informed lens, treating an array of problems ranging from depression and anxiety to relationship and sex related issues.
(Please connect only through email) Hi there! Thank you for taking the time to learn about me and my practice. I’m a registered counselling therapist (candidate) with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. I am a LGBTQIA+, sex, non-monogamy, kink positive therapist. I believe that having a warm, non-judgmental space is imperative to allow for meaningful self-exploration, so as your therapist I vow to give that space to you. I work from a trauma-informed lens, treating an array of problems ranging from depression and anxiety to relationship and sex related issues.
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Nearby LGBTQ+ Counsellors Searches for Lower Sackville
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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.