LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Oro Station, ON
Amber Sperling Social Work & Psychotherapy Service
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, PMH-C, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oro Station, ON L0L
Change, even when positive, can leave you feeling lost: a new baby, an unexpected event or feeling like your life is suddenly not your own. Have you noticed small things are overwhelming, you feel irritable, are emotional out of nowhere and feel alone? If you are feeling unable to handle the impact of life - from parenthood, menopause, work or trauma - we can help. Now more than ever, parents are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body.
Change, even when positive, can leave you feeling lost: a new baby, an unexpected event or feeling like your life is suddenly not your own. Have you noticed small things are overwhelming, you feel irritable, are emotional out of nowhere and feel alone? If you are feeling unable to handle the impact of life - from parenthood, menopause, work or trauma - we can help. Now more than ever, parents are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body.
Robyn Cottrell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
Oro Station, ON L0L
ADHD, BPD, Emotions, Relationships/Couples, Anxiety/Stress- You're having a hard time concentrating and getting things done. You struggle to find motivation to complete your daily tasks and then feel down about yourself. You struggle with shifting moods and don't know how to cope. When anxiety and overwhelm take over, it can be hard to function because your concentration and motivation start to slip. And, if you struggle with low mood and negative self-talk, it can be hard to get out of that "funk" and shift to a more productive mindset.
ADHD, BPD, Emotions, Relationships/Couples, Anxiety/Stress- You're having a hard time concentrating and getting things done. You struggle to find motivation to complete your daily tasks and then feel down about yourself. You struggle with shifting moods and don't know how to cope. When anxiety and overwhelm take over, it can be hard to function because your concentration and motivation start to slip. And, if you struggle with low mood and negative self-talk, it can be hard to get out of that "funk" and shift to a more productive mindset.
Shannon Carney
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Oro Station, ON L0L (Online Only)
Are you or your child experiencing overwhelm and negotiating daily life barriers that are largely unseen by others? It can be discouraging when one often has to work longer and harder than others to complete the same tasks/ achieve the same outcomes. You might have lived experience with learning differences, sensory processing sensitivities, or chronic conditions that impact your overall functioning.
Are you or your child experiencing overwhelm and negotiating daily life barriers that are largely unseen by others? It can be discouraging when one often has to work longer and harder than others to complete the same tasks/ achieve the same outcomes. You might have lived experience with learning differences, sensory processing sensitivities, or chronic conditions that impact your overall functioning.
Stephanie Crema
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oro Station, ON L0L (Online Only)
Change and healing are possible and you don't have to do it alone. As a therapist, I take a holistic, non-pathologizing, and neurodivergent affirming approach to helping my clients heal from trauma, find peace with themselves and their emotions, cope with life challenges, and cultivate gentle self-compassion. I support adults (18+) and couples who struggle with a variety of challenges, and as a late diagnosed neurodivergent therapist, I have a special passion in working with late-diagnosed ADHD and autism. I also support parents in navigating the challenges of fertility, pregnancy, parenthood, and postpartum anxiety/depression.
Change and healing are possible and you don't have to do it alone. As a therapist, I take a holistic, non-pathologizing, and neurodivergent affirming approach to helping my clients heal from trauma, find peace with themselves and their emotions, cope with life challenges, and cultivate gentle self-compassion. I support adults (18+) and couples who struggle with a variety of challenges, and as a late diagnosed neurodivergent therapist, I have a special passion in working with late-diagnosed ADHD and autism. I also support parents in navigating the challenges of fertility, pregnancy, parenthood, and postpartum anxiety/depression.
More Therapists Nearby
Scott Howcroft
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
I work with a range of clients, including the LGBTQ+ community, from different cultures, backgrounds and perspectives. I am a sex positive, poly-aware therapist who works with and respects all relationships. If you're feeling stuck (life or career), grieving, depressed or anxious I am happy to work with you. I specialize in life transitions, relationships, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I work with a range of clients, including the LGBTQ+ community, from different cultures, backgrounds and perspectives. I am a sex positive, poly-aware therapist who works with and respects all relationships. If you're feeling stuck (life or career), grieving, depressed or anxious I am happy to work with you. I specialize in life transitions, relationships, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
Cheyenne Andrew
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
ADHD, Stress/Anxiety, Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+. You have a hard time "turning off" your racing mind and are feeling stressed. It might be hard for you to focus and you find yourself struggling to get things done. Perhaps you are struggling with procrastination, low motivation, or feeling in a "funk" because life is just too much sometimes. When you are stressed and overwhelmed, it can be hard to feel good about yourself and make the changes you'd like to see. If you are ready to work on yourself and start feeling better, you have come to the right place! You deserve to start feeling like YOU again.
ADHD, Stress/Anxiety, Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+. You have a hard time "turning off" your racing mind and are feeling stressed. It might be hard for you to focus and you find yourself struggling to get things done. Perhaps you are struggling with procrastination, low motivation, or feeling in a "funk" because life is just too much sometimes. When you are stressed and overwhelmed, it can be hard to feel good about yourself and make the changes you'd like to see. If you are ready to work on yourself and start feeling better, you have come to the right place! You deserve to start feeling like YOU again.
Charlotte Laws - Prismatic Compassion
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, ADTP, HBASc, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N (Online Only)
I am a queer, AuDHD, cis woman with chronic health conditions.
Do you need help coping, setting boundaries, or navigating life changes? I specialize in mood issues, low self-esteem, the LGBT2SQ+ community, those with chronic illness, those struggling with being bigger-bodied within diet culture, & Autistic/ADHD, CIS women and AFAB folks needing support. Are you coming out/transitioning & looking for an LGBT2SQ+ therapist? Do you have a chronic illness/going through menopause & want a therapist who understands? Do you want help to stop bingeing & to improve your relationship with food, or do you have sensory feeding differences? Do you want support being Autistic/ADHD in a neurotypical world?
I am a queer, AuDHD, cis woman with chronic health conditions.
Do you need help coping, setting boundaries, or navigating life changes? I specialize in mood issues, low self-esteem, the LGBT2SQ+ community, those with chronic illness, those struggling with being bigger-bodied within diet culture, & Autistic/ADHD, CIS women and AFAB folks needing support. Are you coming out/transitioning & looking for an LGBT2SQ+ therapist? Do you have a chronic illness/going through menopause & want a therapist who understands? Do you want help to stop bingeing & to improve your relationship with food, or do you have sensory feeding differences? Do you want support being Autistic/ADHD in a neurotypical world?
Marta Gozdzik
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RN, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
I identify as a Polish, queer, cisgender female.
Do you feel exhausted from distressing thoughts and intense emotions? Are you struggling to cope? You are not alone. If you are feeling overwhelmed, there is support available. Together, we can explore your concerns and develop a treatment plan to work towards your goals. You are welcome to book a consultation with me to determine if we will be a good fit to do the work together.
I identify as a Polish, queer, cisgender female.
Do you feel exhausted from distressing thoughts and intense emotions? Are you struggling to cope? You are not alone. If you are feeling overwhelmed, there is support available. Together, we can explore your concerns and develop a treatment plan to work towards your goals. You are welcome to book a consultation with me to determine if we will be a good fit to do the work together.
I specialize in cannabis and substance addiction, concurrent disorders, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, relationship challenges, and family dynamics.
The individuals & families I work with struggle with cannabis & substance abuse, seeking to break free from the cycle of addiction. They need consistent, supportive guidance to help them remain abstinent from all mind and mood-altering chemicals. Their goal is to achieve lasting sobriety, regain control of their life, and build a healthier, more fulfilling future. They want a coach who understands their journey and provides practical strategies and unwavering support to help them succeed. Through weekly virtual therapy and coaching sessions, they are motivated to overcome their challenges and embrace a brighter, substance-free life.
I specialize in cannabis and substance addiction, concurrent disorders, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, relationship challenges, and family dynamics.
The individuals & families I work with struggle with cannabis & substance abuse, seeking to break free from the cycle of addiction. They need consistent, supportive guidance to help them remain abstinent from all mind and mood-altering chemicals. Their goal is to achieve lasting sobriety, regain control of their life, and build a healthier, more fulfilling future. They want a coach who understands their journey and provides practical strategies and unwavering support to help them succeed. Through weekly virtual therapy and coaching sessions, they are motivated to overcome their challenges and embrace a brighter, substance-free life.
Julia Manzini-Alary
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Waitlist for new clients
You deserve to be supported through a journey of self-discovery and self-empowerment. I love working with women, trans folx, and non-binary folx, and together we can talk about challenges like lack of motivation, anxiety, and self-esteem issues. It can be frustrating when one or many aspects of your life, such as work, family dynamics, or even sexual health, are causing those difficult feelings. Together, we can explore coping skills and strategies to help manage the challenges AND find ways to live more meaningfully—whatever that means for you.
You deserve to be supported through a journey of self-discovery and self-empowerment. I love working with women, trans folx, and non-binary folx, and together we can talk about challenges like lack of motivation, anxiety, and self-esteem issues. It can be frustrating when one or many aspects of your life, such as work, family dynamics, or even sexual health, are causing those difficult feelings. Together, we can explore coping skills and strategies to help manage the challenges AND find ways to live more meaningfully—whatever that means for you.
I am a registered social worker with over 15 years of work experience. I have helped people who experience issues such as: depression, anxiety, addiction, abuse, trauma, anger, LGBTQ-related issues, relationship issues, grief, and family conflict. My journey into social work began at age 14, when I lost my father to cancer. Because there were few supports available at the time, I felt alone and stuck. This prompted me to dedicate my life to assisting others during difficult times, and help them realize they are not alone.
I am a registered social worker with over 15 years of work experience. I have helped people who experience issues such as: depression, anxiety, addiction, abuse, trauma, anger, LGBTQ-related issues, relationship issues, grief, and family conflict. My journey into social work began at age 14, when I lost my father to cancer. Because there were few supports available at the time, I felt alone and stuck. This prompted me to dedicate my life to assisting others during difficult times, and help them realize they are not alone.
Anthony Wright
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Reaching out for support can be one of the most emotion-infused tasks and can seem intimidating or overwhelming; I believe that you are the expert in your life journey and I am here to guide you on your unique recovery path. As a practitioner I hold dual identities within settler-Canadian and Indigenous-Ojibwe roots. I also identify within Two-Spirit & Queer communities. I am here to meet you where you are at and take whichever direction you would like to take within your healing.
Reaching out for support can be one of the most emotion-infused tasks and can seem intimidating or overwhelming; I believe that you are the expert in your life journey and I am here to guide you on your unique recovery path. As a practitioner I hold dual identities within settler-Canadian and Indigenous-Ojibwe roots. I also identify within Two-Spirit & Queer communities. I am here to meet you where you are at and take whichever direction you would like to take within your healing.
Evolve+Shift Therapy - Michelle Williams, MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
My practice is inclusive of people who identify as BIPOC and LGBTQ+.
I am aware of how social and structural systems affect our mood, capacity, self-esteem, and emotional and physical well-being. My approach is one of deep engagement and inclusion; I acknowledge differences in order to understand the complex challenges of navigating a world that can often be dehumanizing. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, workplace stress, intrusive thoughts, and grief. If you are a couple challenged with poor communication, lack of trust and co-dependency, I provide strategies to improve relational breakdown and increase relationship satisfaction.
My practice is inclusive of people who identify as BIPOC and LGBTQ+.
I am aware of how social and structural systems affect our mood, capacity, self-esteem, and emotional and physical well-being. My approach is one of deep engagement and inclusion; I acknowledge differences in order to understand the complex challenges of navigating a world that can often be dehumanizing. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, workplace stress, intrusive thoughts, and grief. If you are a couple challenged with poor communication, lack of trust and co-dependency, I provide strategies to improve relational breakdown and increase relationship satisfaction.
I am a registered clinical social worker at Smith Psychological who provides individual and family psychotherapy. I hold a Master of Social Work, specializing in individual and family therapy.I have worked in child welfare, hospitals, not-for-profit organizations and in the school board settings. I have extensive experience counselling both children and adults. I provide services through multiple modalities such as: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Focused Family Therapy and Navigating relationships, suicide prevention, anxiety & depression management, sexual violence & LGBTQ+ counselling.
I am a registered clinical social worker at Smith Psychological who provides individual and family psychotherapy. I hold a Master of Social Work, specializing in individual and family therapy.I have worked in child welfare, hospitals, not-for-profit organizations and in the school board settings. I have extensive experience counselling both children and adults. I provide services through multiple modalities such as: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Focused Family Therapy and Navigating relationships, suicide prevention, anxiety & depression management, sexual violence & LGBTQ+ counselling.
Feeling overwhelmed, sad, or constantly anxious can really weigh you down, making it tough to enjoy life or even get through the day sometimes. If you've been battling these feelings, you're not alone. Many people, especially men, find it hard to reach out for help due to societal pressures to "tough it out." But acknowledging that you're struggling is a brave first step towards feeling better. Whether it's stress from work, relationship issues, or past trauma that just won't let you be, therapy can offer the support you need to navigate through these tough times.
Feeling overwhelmed, sad, or constantly anxious can really weigh you down, making it tough to enjoy life or even get through the day sometimes. If you've been battling these feelings, you're not alone. Many people, especially men, find it hard to reach out for help due to societal pressures to "tough it out." But acknowledging that you're struggling is a brave first step towards feeling better. Whether it's stress from work, relationship issues, or past trauma that just won't let you be, therapy can offer the support you need to navigate through these tough times.
I can relate to the many issues and needs of others. Some experiences are so traumatic that we may actually feel a sense of hopelessness. Some of us need help in working through trauma, self-esteem, or confidence. We can create a healthier and more adaptive life where we overall feel better and when we start to heal and feel good we are going to enjoy the many things that we have in our lives a little bit more.
I can relate to the many issues and needs of others. Some experiences are so traumatic that we may actually feel a sense of hopelessness. Some of us need help in working through trauma, self-esteem, or confidence. We can create a healthier and more adaptive life where we overall feel better and when we start to heal and feel good we are going to enjoy the many things that we have in our lives a little bit more.
I specialize in supporting individuals coping with narcissistic abuse, emotional underdevelopment & dysfunctional family dynamics, enhancing relationships using the evidence-based Gottman Method, and guiding individuals towards a more optimal and efficient lifestyle. Design the life you want by addressing your limited beliefs, trauma, and develop a new and empowered you.
I specialize in supporting individuals coping with narcissistic abuse, emotional underdevelopment & dysfunctional family dynamics, enhancing relationships using the evidence-based Gottman Method, and guiding individuals towards a more optimal and efficient lifestyle. Design the life you want by addressing your limited beliefs, trauma, and develop a new and empowered you.
Carole M. Walker
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, Hon, Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midhurst, ON L9X
Need Help? I specialize in RELATIONSHIPS, COUPLE & SEX ISSUES, TRAUMA, PTSD, HYPNOTHERAPY, GRIEF, and LIFE PURPOSE issues. I work with individuals, couples, and groups. I can offer you sound therapeutic support in a comfortable and peaceful setting. My approach is non-judgement, client-centered, practical and results oriented. Together we achieve your desired goals!
Need Help? I specialize in RELATIONSHIPS, COUPLE & SEX ISSUES, TRAUMA, PTSD, HYPNOTHERAPY, GRIEF, and LIFE PURPOSE issues. I work with individuals, couples, and groups. I can offer you sound therapeutic support in a comfortable and peaceful setting. My approach is non-judgement, client-centered, practical and results oriented. Together we achieve your desired goals!
Michelle Lauzon
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, BEd, MEd
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
I help people struggling with trauma, anxiety, low mood, narcissistic abuse/toxic relationships, and Highly Sensitive Persons. If you're on leave from work, I also help with the return to work process. I'd be glad to help you gain pieces of your life back and help you cope through evidence-based therapies. I provide comprehensive psychotherapy to adults and adolescents. I have experiencing with emotion regulation difficulties, communication issues, grief, general stress, and work-life balance. I also help students struggling with anxiety/stress.
I help people struggling with trauma, anxiety, low mood, narcissistic abuse/toxic relationships, and Highly Sensitive Persons. If you're on leave from work, I also help with the return to work process. I'd be glad to help you gain pieces of your life back and help you cope through evidence-based therapies. I provide comprehensive psychotherapy to adults and adolescents. I have experiencing with emotion regulation difficulties, communication issues, grief, general stress, and work-life balance. I also help students struggling with anxiety/stress.
Alexandra Albert
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MScS, BScS, RYT200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
Past traumas may linger in the face of life's seasons, hindering your ability to be your true self. You may repeat unhealthy relationship patterns or engage in ways that don't serve you. You may feel disconnected from yourself and your body, and lose your sense of Self in relationships. You may grapple with negative self-talk, stress, anxiety, and burnout, struggling to manage your energy and emotions. Overthinking, overachieving, self-criticism, and self-doubt often prevail as you question your purpose and whether you’re on the right path. I know how tiring, frustrating, and defeating this can feel.
Past traumas may linger in the face of life's seasons, hindering your ability to be your true self. You may repeat unhealthy relationship patterns or engage in ways that don't serve you. You may feel disconnected from yourself and your body, and lose your sense of Self in relationships. You may grapple with negative self-talk, stress, anxiety, and burnout, struggling to manage your energy and emotions. Overthinking, overachieving, self-criticism, and self-doubt often prevail as you question your purpose and whether you’re on the right path. I know how tiring, frustrating, and defeating this can feel.
Alexandria Harris
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Owner & operator of, Therapy with Alex: Trauma Based Services, located in Simcoe County. I am pleased to offer services for all types of experiences for any demographic. Doing private therapy services part time, I am also an authorized child protection worker. I have experience working with issues from childhood abuse, to familial conflict, neglect and more. I have since completed an advanced certification in Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT). Through my years of practice, I now primarily work with complex traumas and personality disorders; however, this is not limited. I say to folks, nothing is off the table.
Owner & operator of, Therapy with Alex: Trauma Based Services, located in Simcoe County. I am pleased to offer services for all types of experiences for any demographic. Doing private therapy services part time, I am also an authorized child protection worker. I have experience working with issues from childhood abuse, to familial conflict, neglect and more. I have since completed an advanced certification in Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT). Through my years of practice, I now primarily work with complex traumas and personality disorders; however, this is not limited. I say to folks, nothing is off the table.
Bloom & Thrive Therapy - Angela Bishop MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CC-PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
You've heard that parenthood is supposed to be a natural transition, but it doesn't feel that way. You have thoughts about how a good parent wouldn't feel sad or angry like this. You're going through the motions, but you're overwhelmed and overstimulated. You're managing, but it's not joyful like others said - it’s hard. You love your baby, but you miss how easy things were before. It’s confusing. You wonder when it gets easier. You deserve relief. You want to figure out what you need. You want to feel happy. You're ready to find your sense of self again, to find ease and help parenthood feel good for you. I can help you get there.
You've heard that parenthood is supposed to be a natural transition, but it doesn't feel that way. You have thoughts about how a good parent wouldn't feel sad or angry like this. You're going through the motions, but you're overwhelmed and overstimulated. You're managing, but it's not joyful like others said - it’s hard. You love your baby, but you miss how easy things were before. It’s confusing. You wonder when it gets easier. You deserve relief. You want to figure out what you need. You want to feel happy. You're ready to find your sense of self again, to find ease and help parenthood feel good for you. I can help you get there.
Currently only offering virtual or phone sessions - I’m a Registered Social Worker with 17 years of experience. I enjoy working with clients who feel stuck in their life or even feel they are in the midst of crisis/chaos. I am well suited to clients who want to live more authentically and enjoy a genuine, open therapist. I am passionate about counselling, and my aim is to be collaborative, genuine, and compassionate.
Currently only offering virtual or phone sessions - I’m a Registered Social Worker with 17 years of experience. I enjoy working with clients who feel stuck in their life or even feel they are in the midst of crisis/chaos. I am well suited to clients who want to live more authentically and enjoy a genuine, open therapist. I am passionate about counselling, and my aim is to be collaborative, genuine, and compassionate.
As a psychologist registered in clinical and school psychology, my training allows me to assess and treat a wide variety of mental health concerns. My experience in school psychology provides me with a unique perspective of the challenges that parents, and their children experience not only at home but in meeting their social, emotional, and cognitive needs within the greater context of their community. I take pride in tailoring treatment to individual needs by integrating learning and cognitive profiles into the application of developmentally appropriate interventions.
As a psychologist registered in clinical and school psychology, my training allows me to assess and treat a wide variety of mental health concerns. My experience in school psychology provides me with a unique perspective of the challenges that parents, and their children experience not only at home but in meeting their social, emotional, and cognitive needs within the greater context of their community. I take pride in tailoring treatment to individual needs by integrating learning and cognitive profiles into the application of developmentally appropriate interventions.
At VMH we can connect you a therapist suited best for you in under 24H's... It takes courage to initiate therapy but investing in your well-being is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself. Whether you are seeking to learn strategies to cope with life's ups and downs, tools to manage challenging emotions, or support with difficult life events, it is our privilege to be here for you. Our diversely skilled group of Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Social Workers are here to help you get results. At Vault Mental Health we will create a tailor-made treatment plan unique to you and your situation.
At VMH we can connect you a therapist suited best for you in under 24H's... It takes courage to initiate therapy but investing in your well-being is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself. Whether you are seeking to learn strategies to cope with life's ups and downs, tools to manage challenging emotions, or support with difficult life events, it is our privilege to be here for you. Our diversely skilled group of Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Social Workers are here to help you get results. At Vault Mental Health we will create a tailor-made treatment plan unique to you and your situation.
See more therapy options for Oro Station
Nearby LGBTQ+ Counsellors Searches for Oro Station
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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.