Transgender Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Clyde Thaddeus Mason, MSW, RSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
Clyde Thaddeus Mason
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
I help transgender, 2S, and nonbinary people recover from trauma and free themselves. I use a body-centered approach to mental health informed by Black trans feminism. Trauma is energy trapped in the nervous system caused by incomplete protective responses. You carry stories of abusive relationships, religious violence, anti-fatness, dysphoria, or misgendering. You feel anxiety, shame, or fear daily. You dissociate often and you may experience addiction or self-harm. You carry grief or suicidal feelings. You may have a parts system and you may be neurodivergent. You value an Autistic therapist who encourages unmasking.
I help transgender, 2S, and nonbinary people recover from trauma and free themselves. I use a body-centered approach to mental health informed by Black trans feminism. Trauma is energy trapped in the nervous system caused by incomplete protective responses. You carry stories of abusive relationships, religious violence, anti-fatness, dysphoria, or misgendering. You feel anxiety, shame, or fear daily. You dissociate often and you may experience addiction or self-harm. You carry grief or suicidal feelings. You may have a parts system and you may be neurodivergent. You value an Autistic therapist who encourages unmasking.
(437) 747-6341 View (437) 747-6341
Photo of Mason Flatla, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Mason Flatla
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1A
Thank you for considering me in your search for a therapist. It is my belief that the most meaningful therapy is grounded in the safety and fit of the client-therapist relationship. I strive to maintain a practice that is authentic, transparent, and honouring of the courage it takes to arrive in therapy. My approach is integrative and often draws from both person-centred and narrative methodologies as well as my lived experience as a transgender person. I strive to create a warm and inclusive space that fosters collaboration, discussion and self-exploration.
Thank you for considering me in your search for a therapist. It is my belief that the most meaningful therapy is grounded in the safety and fit of the client-therapist relationship. I strive to maintain a practice that is authentic, transparent, and honouring of the courage it takes to arrive in therapy. My approach is integrative and often draws from both person-centred and narrative methodologies as well as my lived experience as a transgender person. I strive to create a warm and inclusive space that fosters collaboration, discussion and self-exploration.
(343) 944-4852 View (343) 944-4852
Photo of Andy L'Heureux, BSc, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Andy L'Heureux
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1L  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with folks who are looking to heal from childhood/developmental trauma, complex PTSD, dissociation, chaotic substance use, personality disorders, and struggles related to being queer, transgender, and/or non-binary.
Therapy doesn't have to be scary! I know first-hand what it can be like to suffer in silence, longing for change, & struggling to find someone who "gets" you. If you grew up in a home where you didn't get the support that you needed, if you went through something that you feel like you have never recovered from, or if you feel like a black sheep everywhere you go, I would be happy to co-create a non-judgmental healing space where you feel seen, heard, & valued. We can work on things like learning to understand yourself, re-gaining control of your life, & appreciating the parts of you that have clawed you out of your darkest times.
I enjoy working with folks who are looking to heal from childhood/developmental trauma, complex PTSD, dissociation, chaotic substance use, personality disorders, and struggles related to being queer, transgender, and/or non-binary.
Therapy doesn't have to be scary! I know first-hand what it can be like to suffer in silence, longing for change, & struggling to find someone who "gets" you. If you grew up in a home where you didn't get the support that you needed, if you went through something that you feel like you have never recovered from, or if you feel like a black sheep everywhere you go, I would be happy to co-create a non-judgmental healing space where you feel seen, heard, & valued. We can work on things like learning to understand yourself, re-gaining control of your life, & appreciating the parts of you that have clawed you out of your darkest times.
(647) 697-4449 View (647) 697-4449
Photo of Marie Robertson
Marie Robertson
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
My areas of specialization are relationship issues, grief & bereavement, palliative care, HIV/AIDS/Cancer, coming out, internalized homophobia, transgender issues, addiction recovery, and codependency.
The counselling process is similar to carefully peeling back the layers of an onion. You need to feel safe and in control as the layers of your story are revealed. Together, we uncover deeper parts of the self that may be hidden from conscious thought ... old scripts and tapes that are still playing today and causing you pain and anxiety. You can change your life by bringing these old patterns and voices into the light of day for examination. My work is to support, guide, and challenge you so you can empower yourself to deal with past issues and present concerns.
My areas of specialization are relationship issues, grief & bereavement, palliative care, HIV/AIDS/Cancer, coming out, internalized homophobia, transgender issues, addiction recovery, and codependency.
The counselling process is similar to carefully peeling back the layers of an onion. You need to feel safe and in control as the layers of your story are revealed. Together, we uncover deeper parts of the self that may be hidden from conscious thought ... old scripts and tapes that are still playing today and causing you pain and anxiety. You can change your life by bringing these old patterns and voices into the light of day for examination. My work is to support, guide, and challenge you so you can empower yourself to deal with past issues and present concerns.
(877) 370-8838 View (877) 370-8838
Photo of Brad Garrison, MEd, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Brad Garrison
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in sex therapy, couples / marriage counselling, and work with LGBTQ+ and transgender communities and have experience offering service to diverse clients from marginalized, BIPOC, poly, and kink communities.
Sex and relationships are often at the core of our lives. The ways in which we connect with others - and with ourselves - can have significant impacts on our health and well-being. Communication barriers, sexual dysfunction, disconnection, infidelity, domestic abuse, trauma, and other kinds of psychosocial concerns are common challenges that lead people to seek therapy with me. Many of my clients are wanting to calm anxiety, develop coping skills, increase sexual satisfaction, reconnect with partners, or heal from trauma and abuse.
I specialize in sex therapy, couples / marriage counselling, and work with LGBTQ+ and transgender communities and have experience offering service to diverse clients from marginalized, BIPOC, poly, and kink communities.
Sex and relationships are often at the core of our lives. The ways in which we connect with others - and with ourselves - can have significant impacts on our health and well-being. Communication barriers, sexual dysfunction, disconnection, infidelity, domestic abuse, trauma, and other kinds of psychosocial concerns are common challenges that lead people to seek therapy with me. Many of my clients are wanting to calm anxiety, develop coping skills, increase sexual satisfaction, reconnect with partners, or heal from trauma and abuse.
(249) 444-4094 View (249) 444-4094
Photo of Terrilee Kelford, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Terrilee Kelford
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2S
So many young people today are struggling with sleep, feeling sick and/or avoiding school, fighting with parents about seemingly simple routines or expectations, spending too much time on technology, are moody and/or irritable or hurting themselves? As a Registered Psychotherapist with 25+ years experience providing support to incredible young people, I can help. I provide caring and non-judgemental support to young people age 10-30 who are experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, sleep issues, bullying, anger, trauma, gender dysphoria, sexual identity, attachment, self-injury, addictions, ADHD and self-esteem etc.
So many young people today are struggling with sleep, feeling sick and/or avoiding school, fighting with parents about seemingly simple routines or expectations, spending too much time on technology, are moody and/or irritable or hurting themselves? As a Registered Psychotherapist with 25+ years experience providing support to incredible young people, I can help. I provide caring and non-judgemental support to young people age 10-30 who are experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, sleep issues, bullying, anger, trauma, gender dysphoria, sexual identity, attachment, self-injury, addictions, ADHD and self-esteem etc.
(613) 704-6109 View (613) 704-6109
Photo of Marty Petrovich, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Marty Petrovich
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
While my own lived experience is as a Caucasian transgender man, I welcome the opportunity to work with clients of all gender identities and ethnicities.
Hello and welcome! I'm a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist and I look forward to connecting with you. Searching for the right therapist can be a daunting task, especially when this is likely a vulnerable time in your life. I hope my profile can provide you with a bit of clarity and calm in your search. If we were to work together, my priority would be to build a trusting and genuine therapeutic relationship with you. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic space for self-exploration, processing difficult experiences/emotions, and working towards your goals. I also always encourage feedback from you along the way.
While my own lived experience is as a Caucasian transgender man, I welcome the opportunity to work with clients of all gender identities and ethnicities.
Hello and welcome! I'm a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist and I look forward to connecting with you. Searching for the right therapist can be a daunting task, especially when this is likely a vulnerable time in your life. I hope my profile can provide you with a bit of clarity and calm in your search. If we were to work together, my priority would be to build a trusting and genuine therapeutic relationship with you. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic space for self-exploration, processing difficult experiences/emotions, and working towards your goals. I also always encourage feedback from you along the way.
(437) 747-3906 View (437) 747-3906
Photo of Mady Harber - Burn Bright Counselling, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Burn Bright Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R
Our experience and passion in connecting with queer and transgender youth and young adults has brought immense joy and gratitude to us.
Accepting New Clients! Life brings many challenges and we believe you aren't meant to do the work of healing from these challenges alone. Being here at this page is a courageous first step for you on the path to getting the support you deserve. Burn Bright Counselling provides confidential and compassionate support to folks who are experiencing emotional distress, relationship conflict, grief and a diminished sense of hope. We work with you to build a tailored support service to meet your individual needs during our time together. We specialize in working with LGBTQ2S+ and allied youth, young adults, couples and parents.
Our experience and passion in connecting with queer and transgender youth and young adults has brought immense joy and gratitude to us.
Accepting New Clients! Life brings many challenges and we believe you aren't meant to do the work of healing from these challenges alone. Being here at this page is a courageous first step for you on the path to getting the support you deserve. Burn Bright Counselling provides confidential and compassionate support to folks who are experiencing emotional distress, relationship conflict, grief and a diminished sense of hope. We work with you to build a tailored support service to meet your individual needs during our time together. We specialize in working with LGBTQ2S+ and allied youth, young adults, couples and parents.
(506) 700-6542 View (506) 700-6542
Photo of Dr. Jesse Bosse, DPs, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Jesse Bosse
Psychologist, DPs, CPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
As a queer non-binary psychologist, I combine my professional and personal experience in my work with clients. I support queer adults manage and mitigate the impacts of Queer Burnout. What is Queer Burnout? It’s a distinct flavour of burnout where the exhaustion is caused by the reality of navigating life as a queer person (see www.talltreepsychology.com/blog/is-queer-burnout-a-thing). More precisely, I work with 2SLGBTQ+ adults looking for support in managing exhaustion, prioritizing their needs and setting boundaries.
As a queer non-binary psychologist, I combine my professional and personal experience in my work with clients. I support queer adults manage and mitigate the impacts of Queer Burnout. What is Queer Burnout? It’s a distinct flavour of burnout where the exhaustion is caused by the reality of navigating life as a queer person (see www.talltreepsychology.com/blog/is-queer-burnout-a-thing). More precisely, I work with 2SLGBTQ+ adults looking for support in managing exhaustion, prioritizing their needs and setting boundaries.
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Photo of Mycah Katz, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Mycah Katz
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2A
We live in a world that often doesn't recognize who we are, especially if you are queer, trans, neurodivergent. Whether you are one of those, or all three, I am right there with you. You might be wondering who you are or you might already know. You might have experienced trauma. You might be dealing with organizational challenges, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and issues with your family of origin. You might be an individual, a monogamous couple, or in a non-monogamous relationship configuration. Wading through all of these issues can be difficult at the best of times, but I am here to help.
We live in a world that often doesn't recognize who we are, especially if you are queer, trans, neurodivergent. Whether you are one of those, or all three, I am right there with you. You might be wondering who you are or you might already know. You might have experienced trauma. You might be dealing with organizational challenges, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and issues with your family of origin. You might be an individual, a monogamous couple, or in a non-monogamous relationship configuration. Wading through all of these issues can be difficult at the best of times, but I am here to help.
(343) 655-0701 View (343) 655-0701
Photo of Tye Laframboise, RSW/BSW, Registered Social Worker
Tye Laframboise
Registered Social Worker, RSW/BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
I am a trans, queer and neurodivergent person, who is passionate about working within community. I am a Registered Social Worker in Ontario, and am currently practicing out of Pink Opal Counselling. I have a Bachelor of Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from McMaster University, and am currently completing my Master of Social Work, with a specialization of Gender and Women’s studies at Lakehead University.
I am a trans, queer and neurodivergent person, who is passionate about working within community. I am a Registered Social Worker in Ontario, and am currently practicing out of Pink Opal Counselling. I have a Bachelor of Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from McMaster University, and am currently completing my Master of Social Work, with a specialization of Gender and Women’s studies at Lakehead University.
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Photo of Emily Ritenburg - Aroha Pride Counselling & Consulting, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Aroha Pride Counselling & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1P  (Online Only)
Everyone needs some extra support sometimes. With Aroha Counselling, our mental health professionals support people who are coping with a range of experiences. Our practices are framed within an anti-oppressive, queer affirming, anti-racist, sex positive, trauma informed, and harm reduction lens. Clients can expect a welcoming and stigma free counselling environment. We provide services to anyone in need of support from all walks of life and have additional specialization in providing informed services to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Please note that all of our services are virtual.
Everyone needs some extra support sometimes. With Aroha Counselling, our mental health professionals support people who are coping with a range of experiences. Our practices are framed within an anti-oppressive, queer affirming, anti-racist, sex positive, trauma informed, and harm reduction lens. Clients can expect a welcoming and stigma free counselling environment. We provide services to anyone in need of support from all walks of life and have additional specialization in providing informed services to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Please note that all of our services are virtual.
(343) 321-1390 View (343) 321-1390
Photo of Rae Griffin-Carlson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rae Griffin-Carlson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2E
My practice is grounded in a client-centered, trauma-informed, anti-racist, de-colonialist, anti-oppressive, 2SLGBTQ+ affirming, culturally humble approach, guided by narrative & feminist frameworks. My intention is to co-create a healing, empowering, and exploratory space that affirms all the parts that make you who you are (ie. gender, sexuality, race, culture, ancestry, family, community, spirituality, thoughts, feelings, and beliefs).
My practice is grounded in a client-centered, trauma-informed, anti-racist, de-colonialist, anti-oppressive, 2SLGBTQ+ affirming, culturally humble approach, guided by narrative & feminist frameworks. My intention is to co-create a healing, empowering, and exploratory space that affirms all the parts that make you who you are (ie. gender, sexuality, race, culture, ancestry, family, community, spirituality, thoughts, feelings, and beliefs).
(343) 321-2294 View (343) 321-2294
Photo of Julian Lue, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Julian Lue
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
My work is about building a strong therapeutic connection with you and co-creating a safe place where you can share your authentic self. My practice is informed by cognitive behavioural therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness practices, as well as my own lived experience as a racialized member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, and my education in both kinesiology and social work. I'd love to be able to support and work with you to help you create the changes you wish to in your life. Outside of private practice, I work at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO).
My work is about building a strong therapeutic connection with you and co-creating a safe place where you can share your authentic self. My practice is informed by cognitive behavioural therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness practices, as well as my own lived experience as a racialized member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, and my education in both kinesiology and social work. I'd love to be able to support and work with you to help you create the changes you wish to in your life. Outside of private practice, I work at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO).
(343) 801-3327 View (343) 801-3327
Photo of Markus McIntyre, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Markus McIntyre
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G  (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.
(647) 372-1541 View (647) 372-1541
Photo of Joël Xavier, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Joël Xavier
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
I’m a social worker and therapist in Ontario. We might be good fit if you're looking to work with someone warm, collaborative and non-judgmental. You should know that I love this work: it is both a privilege and a responsibility to hold each person’s story with respect and dignity. I enjoy working with all kinds of people and count over 15 years of professional experience addressing issues related to mental health and sexual well-being of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals. In particular, I have in-depth experience working with gay, bi and queer men, as well as trans and non-binary people, their partners and their family members.
I’m a social worker and therapist in Ontario. We might be good fit if you're looking to work with someone warm, collaborative and non-judgmental. You should know that I love this work: it is both a privilege and a responsibility to hold each person’s story with respect and dignity. I enjoy working with all kinds of people and count over 15 years of professional experience addressing issues related to mental health and sexual well-being of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals. In particular, I have in-depth experience working with gay, bi and queer men, as well as trans and non-binary people, their partners and their family members.
(343) 321-1824 View (343) 321-1824
Photo of Kastin Bradley, MSW, RSW, MT-BC, Registered Social Worker
Kastin Bradley
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K0A
Hello! I'm Kastin (they/them) an MSW psychotherapist and board-certified music therapist (BC-MT). As a non-binary individual, I have a personal understanding of the unique challenges and needs of the 2S-LGBTQIA+ community, as well as the importance of queer joy! Providing gender-affirming care and support to the community is not just a professional commitment but a deeply personal one. I also work with autistic individuals, folks with disabilities, and those who identify as neurodivergent. I love working with diverse folks of all ages, from kids as young as 3 years old to teenagers or adults, I am here to help!
Hello! I'm Kastin (they/them) an MSW psychotherapist and board-certified music therapist (BC-MT). As a non-binary individual, I have a personal understanding of the unique challenges and needs of the 2S-LGBTQIA+ community, as well as the importance of queer joy! Providing gender-affirming care and support to the community is not just a professional commitment but a deeply personal one. I also work with autistic individuals, folks with disabilities, and those who identify as neurodivergent. I love working with diverse folks of all ages, from kids as young as 3 years old to teenagers or adults, I am here to help!
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Photo of Rainbow Counselling - LGBTQ+ therapy online, Rainbow Counselling, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
LGBTQ+ therapy online, Rainbow Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1K  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist with expansive knowledge of 2SLGBTQ+ community? Looking for a therapist who you don't have to explain queer nuance to? We are a completely virtual 2SLGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy clinic & welcome you! We value anti-oppressive and trauma informed approaches to therapy. We support the community & those in close relationships to the community & provide a space where you don't have to educate your therapist, and can just focus on getting mental health support! Our therapists specialize in topics including: ADHD, BPD, Autism, Polyamory, Relationships, Trauma, Infidelity, Betrayal, Exploring Sexuality & Gender.
Are you looking for a therapist with expansive knowledge of 2SLGBTQ+ community? Looking for a therapist who you don't have to explain queer nuance to? We are a completely virtual 2SLGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy clinic & welcome you! We value anti-oppressive and trauma informed approaches to therapy. We support the community & those in close relationships to the community & provide a space where you don't have to educate your therapist, and can just focus on getting mental health support! Our therapists specialize in topics including: ADHD, BPD, Autism, Polyamory, Relationships, Trauma, Infidelity, Betrayal, Exploring Sexuality & Gender.
(437) 747-4664 View (437) 747-4664
Photo of Alex Norris, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Alex Norris
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
We all have stories that we tell about ourselves, our lives, and that others tell about us. Often when we’re struggling, these stories are about feeling powerless, hopeless, scared, and are full of shame and self-doubt. My approach explores these narratives, creating space for new, richer stories to emerge. If it feels right to you, we’ll explore the stories different parts of yourself tell you, drawing you closer to your values, deconstructing your patterns and uncovering your strengths and resiliency to find new paths forward. We will build a deeper understanding of what you've been through, where you are, and where you're going.
We all have stories that we tell about ourselves, our lives, and that others tell about us. Often when we’re struggling, these stories are about feeling powerless, hopeless, scared, and are full of shame and self-doubt. My approach explores these narratives, creating space for new, richer stories to emerge. If it feels right to you, we’ll explore the stories different parts of yourself tell you, drawing you closer to your values, deconstructing your patterns and uncovering your strengths and resiliency to find new paths forward. We will build a deeper understanding of what you've been through, where you are, and where you're going.
(647) 957-9421 View (647) 957-9421
Photo of Ailill Hall, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ailill Hall
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck, anxious, stressed, or sad? You don't have to keep feeling this way, because therapy can help. My process involves identifying the barriers that are getting in the way of your wellness and work with you to help you feel better, but also function better in your personal life, relationships, school or work life. Using a cognitive-behavioural approach, I can help you make meaningful changes in your life, while also acknowledging the validity of your lived experiences. I am passionate about working with clients to find an approach that fits them best.
Are you feeling stuck, anxious, stressed, or sad? You don't have to keep feeling this way, because therapy can help. My process involves identifying the barriers that are getting in the way of your wellness and work with you to help you feel better, but also function better in your personal life, relationships, school or work life. Using a cognitive-behavioural approach, I can help you make meaningful changes in your life, while also acknowledging the validity of your lived experiences. I am passionate about working with clients to find an approach that fits them best.
(289) 272-8168 View (289) 272-8168
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Transgender Counsellors

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognise a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognise a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.