LGBTQ+ Therapists in Summerhill, Toronto, ON

Photo of Bryan Geoffrey Randall, MILR, MACP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bryan Geoffrey Randall
Pre-Licensed Professional, MILR, MACP
Verified Verified
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4W
Through a queer lens my practice supports all folk by providing an affirming and inclusive space.
In our sessions, expect empathetic, intentional spaces which acknowledge the layers of marginalization, oppression, trauma, and healing that shape us. This space will be for sharing stories that affirm every part of your identity, reconnecting you to your values, experiences and goals for healing and growth. Using a range of therapeutic approaches, including, narrative, EMDR, humanistic, existential and strength-based methods, I aim to tailor our work to meet your unique needs. I embrace trauma-informed, decolonizing, anti-oppressive and intersectional therapeutic principles.
Through a queer lens my practice supports all folk by providing an affirming and inclusive space.
In our sessions, expect empathetic, intentional spaces which acknowledge the layers of marginalization, oppression, trauma, and healing that shape us. This space will be for sharing stories that affirm every part of your identity, reconnecting you to your values, experiences and goals for healing and growth. Using a range of therapeutic approaches, including, narrative, EMDR, humanistic, existential and strength-based methods, I aim to tailor our work to meet your unique needs. I embrace trauma-informed, decolonizing, anti-oppressive and intersectional therapeutic principles.
(437) 747-5909 View (437) 747-5909
Photo of Hayley Darychuk, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Hayley Darychuk
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4W
I work with adults and youth 16+ experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, questions of gender and sexuality, single event and childhood trauma. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Through compassionate listening, empathy, and genuine connection, I work collaboratively with clients to uncover their strengths, develop coping skills, and cultivate self-compassion. I am queer, and particularly passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and supporters of individuals questioning or transitioning gender.
I work with adults and youth 16+ experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, questions of gender and sexuality, single event and childhood trauma. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Through compassionate listening, empathy, and genuine connection, I work collaboratively with clients to uncover their strengths, develop coping skills, and cultivate self-compassion. I am queer, and particularly passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and supporters of individuals questioning or transitioning gender.
(647) 490-9949 View (647) 490-9949
Photo of Nisrine Maktabi, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Nisrine Maktabi
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4T
Seeking therapy is a radical act of self love. It takes courage to reach out when in pain or transition. Wanting support is a sign of the impulse to thrive. I hold space for you to heal your attachment and other wounds. I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have a Masters of Psychology, with a private practice in downtown Toronto. My special interests include transitions across the life span, attachment and trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, Post Traumatic Stress, newcomer and multi cultural issues, intersecting with LGBTQ issues, women's mental health, transitioning genders, and newcomer issues.
Seeking therapy is a radical act of self love. It takes courage to reach out when in pain or transition. Wanting support is a sign of the impulse to thrive. I hold space for you to heal your attachment and other wounds. I am a Registered Psychotherapist and have a Masters of Psychology, with a private practice in downtown Toronto. My special interests include transitions across the life span, attachment and trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, Post Traumatic Stress, newcomer and multi cultural issues, intersecting with LGBTQ issues, women's mental health, transitioning genders, and newcomer issues.
(647) 952-1830 View (647) 952-1830
Photo of Andrea Faveri, BA, MA, BEd, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Andrea Faveri
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA, BEd
Verified Verified
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4T
In my work with couples, I welcome all relationships- queer, straight, monogamous, and polyamorous.
I know that making a decision to start therapy isn't easy. It can be anxiety-inducing, whether you are new to the process or experienced. I understand that and will work with you at your own pace. It is also important that you feel a sense of connection with your therapist, and that you feel seen, understood, and valued. As we work together, we will build a safe therapeutic relationship for you to explore your patterns in relationship with others, and with yourself. I will listen with curiosity and compassion to your stories- the ones that are causing discomfort or pain in your life and the ones that bring you happiness.
In my work with couples, I welcome all relationships- queer, straight, monogamous, and polyamorous.
I know that making a decision to start therapy isn't easy. It can be anxiety-inducing, whether you are new to the process or experienced. I understand that and will work with you at your own pace. It is also important that you feel a sense of connection with your therapist, and that you feel seen, understood, and valued. As we work together, we will build a safe therapeutic relationship for you to explore your patterns in relationship with others, and with yourself. I will listen with curiosity and compassion to your stories- the ones that are causing discomfort or pain in your life and the ones that bring you happiness.
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Photo of Enrique Garcia, Dip, MA, BA
Enrique Garcia
Dip, MA, BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4V
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) and a humanistic mental health counsellor. Do you feel like things aren't the way you thought they would be? Are you feeling stuck or misunderstood? I offer talking therapy towards helping you shape your perspective into a healthy and productive one. Whether it's your career, your relationships, or anything else that's important to you. I practice under a multicultural and multilingual perspective respecting the individual experience of otherness.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) and a humanistic mental health counsellor. Do you feel like things aren't the way you thought they would be? Are you feeling stuck or misunderstood? I offer talking therapy towards helping you shape your perspective into a healthy and productive one. Whether it's your career, your relationships, or anything else that's important to you. I practice under a multicultural and multilingual perspective respecting the individual experience of otherness.
(647) 560-7812 View (647) 560-7812
Photo of Derek Cozzi, MEd, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Derek Cozzi
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4W
Welcome! I work with individuals and couples. I help clients navigate relationships, sex/intimacy, trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, self-esteem, identity, and grief/loss. I am actively engaged in our sessions, helping you identify, understand, and shift challenging emotions, thought patterns/beliefs, attachment tendencies, and behavioural patterns/defences. My aim is to enhance self-awareness, foster healthier and happier relationships, cultivate emotional resilience, and facilitate meaningful shifts toward improved psychological and emotional well-being. I also offer clinical supervision and consultation.
Welcome! I work with individuals and couples. I help clients navigate relationships, sex/intimacy, trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, self-esteem, identity, and grief/loss. I am actively engaged in our sessions, helping you identify, understand, and shift challenging emotions, thought patterns/beliefs, attachment tendencies, and behavioural patterns/defences. My aim is to enhance self-awareness, foster healthier and happier relationships, cultivate emotional resilience, and facilitate meaningful shifts toward improved psychological and emotional well-being. I also offer clinical supervision and consultation.
(647) 372-1207 View (647) 372-1207
Photo of Jaimee Wheaton - Jaimee Wheaton Therapy, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jaimee Wheaton Therapy
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4W
15+ years of experience with a passion for my work. Specializing in mental health, trauma, relationships and ADHD with individual adults. I offer a non-judgmental and personable approach using guided reflection and practical tools. ​I have my own lived experiences with mental health and ADHD, which has led me to support others on their journey. I provide a comfortable and safe environment, working together to identify areas for improvement and give you the tools to make positive changes. I support my clients with kindness and empathy while encouraging them to challenge unhelpful thinking and behaviours.
15+ years of experience with a passion for my work. Specializing in mental health, trauma, relationships and ADHD with individual adults. I offer a non-judgmental and personable approach using guided reflection and practical tools. ​I have my own lived experiences with mental health and ADHD, which has led me to support others on their journey. I provide a comfortable and safe environment, working together to identify areas for improvement and give you the tools to make positive changes. I support my clients with kindness and empathy while encouraging them to challenge unhelpful thinking and behaviours.
(647) 696-1987 View (647) 696-1987
Photo of Evette Meikle, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Evette Meikle
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M5R
I provide psychotherapy for trauma, PTSD, grief, sexual abuse, physical abuse, mental and emotional abuse, childhood abuse, racism/racial abuse, depression, anxiety, anger issues, behavioral issues, self esteem issues, self image issues, relationship issues, work stress, personal stress, and stress from everyday issues.
I provide psychotherapy for trauma, PTSD, grief, sexual abuse, physical abuse, mental and emotional abuse, childhood abuse, racism/racial abuse, depression, anxiety, anger issues, behavioral issues, self esteem issues, self image issues, relationship issues, work stress, personal stress, and stress from everyday issues.
(647) 371-5307 View (647) 371-5307
Photo of Meeta Chawla Locey, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Meeta Chawla Locey
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4W
As an ADHD'er with an ADHD kid, I help kids, teens and adults thrive in a neurotypical world by exploring, embracing and working with their ADHD brain. Having spent 20+ years at tech companies (startups & Fortune 500s), I can show you how therapy can help you thrive in your personal and professional life. As a parent & cancer survivor, I use a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive approach to dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and major life transitions. No matter what you're struggling with, you are not broken. Therapy isn't about fixing, but rather, rediscovering & reclaiming your inherent wholeness.
As an ADHD'er with an ADHD kid, I help kids, teens and adults thrive in a neurotypical world by exploring, embracing and working with their ADHD brain. Having spent 20+ years at tech companies (startups & Fortune 500s), I can show you how therapy can help you thrive in your personal and professional life. As a parent & cancer survivor, I use a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive approach to dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and major life transitions. No matter what you're struggling with, you are not broken. Therapy isn't about fixing, but rather, rediscovering & reclaiming your inherent wholeness.
(647) 692-3399 View (647) 692-3399
Photo of Joelle Therriault, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Joelle Therriault
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4V
People of all ages have expertise on their own lives. When problems linger and impact mental health and well-being, collaborating with a therapist who is a good fit for you can provide a safe space to establish perspective and highlight the unique values, skills and knowledge you bring to your lived experience. I strive to create warm, respectful and strength-based working relationships that allow us to identify problem solving skills and abilities to reduce the influence of the problem or dissolve it altogether. Sometimes a single consultation is useful while other problems might have us consulting for a period of time.
People of all ages have expertise on their own lives. When problems linger and impact mental health and well-being, collaborating with a therapist who is a good fit for you can provide a safe space to establish perspective and highlight the unique values, skills and knowledge you bring to your lived experience. I strive to create warm, respectful and strength-based working relationships that allow us to identify problem solving skills and abilities to reduce the influence of the problem or dissolve it altogether. Sometimes a single consultation is useful while other problems might have us consulting for a period of time.
(647) 696-7948 View (647) 696-7948
Photo of Grace Pat, MDiv, MEd, HonBA, DipCS, EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Grace Pat
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv, MEd, HonBA, DipCS, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4W  (Online Only)
have been life-altering and transformative.
We each walk a unique path that shapes who we are, at times it's the experiences along this journey that moldes us to act and react in situations. Much of the time we act how things were modeled to us by authority figures in our lives. We learn what works and what doesn't, and some get stuck in a cycle producing unhealthy patterns.
have been life-altering and transformative.
We each walk a unique path that shapes who we are, at times it's the experiences along this journey that moldes us to act and react in situations. Much of the time we act how things were modeled to us by authority figures in our lives. We learn what works and what doesn't, and some get stuck in a cycle producing unhealthy patterns.
(289) 275-9199 View (289) 275-9199
Photo of Graig Moriarty, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Graig Moriarty
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4V
Are you seeking relief, clarity and well-being? Realigning your inner strengths and creating the balance you desire and deserve in your life is achievable! Stressful relationships (personal, family, work), loss, depression, anxiety, anger and conflict are some things I can assist you with. I can help you with being focused and grounded and, ultimately, more present. Being present, with yourself and others, is the only place from which you can make effective, conscious, lasting choices and changes. During 24 years in private practice I've had the privilege of working with many people of different ages, personalities and backgrounds.
Are you seeking relief, clarity and well-being? Realigning your inner strengths and creating the balance you desire and deserve in your life is achievable! Stressful relationships (personal, family, work), loss, depression, anxiety, anger and conflict are some things I can assist you with. I can help you with being focused and grounded and, ultimately, more present. Being present, with yourself and others, is the only place from which you can make effective, conscious, lasting choices and changes. During 24 years in private practice I've had the privilege of working with many people of different ages, personalities and backgrounds.
(855) 980-6785 View (855) 980-6785
Photo of Rachel DaCosta, MA, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist
Rachel DaCosta
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4W
I specialize in helping students and young professionals navigate challenges such as anxiety, work and school stress, body image concerns, and difficult emotions. My compassionate, evidence-based approach focuses on creating a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings and develop effective coping strategies. Together, we can work on improving your relationships, understanding your attachment styles, and fostering a healthier self-image. I also have experience working with couples and families in addition to one-on-one counselling.
I specialize in helping students and young professionals navigate challenges such as anxiety, work and school stress, body image concerns, and difficult emotions. My compassionate, evidence-based approach focuses on creating a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings and develop effective coping strategies. Together, we can work on improving your relationships, understanding your attachment styles, and fostering a healthier self-image. I also have experience working with couples and families in addition to one-on-one counselling.
(647) 931-4325 View (647) 931-4325
Photo of Sara Kamin - From The Heart Psychotherapy - Sara Kamin, RP, BSc, (Hons), MSc, DipTIRP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
From The Heart Psychotherapy - Sara Kamin, RP
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, (Hons), MSc, DipTIRP, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4T
Everyone experiences life differently, but we can make sense of it together. I provide a space in which you can talk through the challenges of life in the context of an empathic, caring and safe relationship. I approach my work as a therapist with relational and empathic listening, nonjudgmental exploration, interactive engagement, respectful challenge, and mutual participation in the therapeutic process. My work is informed by a holistic approach to respect the relational, interconnected nature of human experience. Together we will explore the emotional, cognitive, physical, sociocultural & spiritual factors that impact your life.
Everyone experiences life differently, but we can make sense of it together. I provide a space in which you can talk through the challenges of life in the context of an empathic, caring and safe relationship. I approach my work as a therapist with relational and empathic listening, nonjudgmental exploration, interactive engagement, respectful challenge, and mutual participation in the therapeutic process. My work is informed by a holistic approach to respect the relational, interconnected nature of human experience. Together we will explore the emotional, cognitive, physical, sociocultural & spiritual factors that impact your life.
(647) 578-7362 View (647) 578-7362
Photo of Gabriel Gorman, MACP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Gabriel Gorman
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, MA
Verified Verified
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4V
I am a current Board Member of CAPT (Canadian Association of Psychodynamic Therapists). I've come to this professional life as a therapist after years as an English instructor (ESL), server, and professional musician. Many of us these days are feeling depressed and/or anxious about life and how to move forward. I know that it requires courage to trust another with your story, but there is so much to be gained from speaking about it. Together, we can work to discover a deeper sense and better understanding of who you are as a person. When you're ready, I'll be ready as well and we can work to change your life for the better.
I am a current Board Member of CAPT (Canadian Association of Psychodynamic Therapists). I've come to this professional life as a therapist after years as an English instructor (ESL), server, and professional musician. Many of us these days are feeling depressed and/or anxious about life and how to move forward. I know that it requires courage to trust another with your story, but there is so much to be gained from speaking about it. Together, we can work to discover a deeper sense and better understanding of who you are as a person. When you're ready, I'll be ready as well and we can work to change your life for the better.
(647) 363-7370 View (647) 363-7370
Photo of Christine Rookwood, LCSW, MSW, RSW, RCC
Christine Rookwood
LCSW, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4T
If you are struggling with a particular issue, feeling lost in a relationship; intimate or professional, worrying and lacking the motivation to put ideas/thoughts into action, or just generally feeling stuck, I'm glad you are here. Life is complex and doesn't come with clear and definitive guidelines. No wonder we can feel overwhelmed! Sometimes it can just feel like it too much to manage alone. Working in a therapeutic relationship where you are the focus can help you find ways to learn, grow, and heal.
If you are struggling with a particular issue, feeling lost in a relationship; intimate or professional, worrying and lacking the motivation to put ideas/thoughts into action, or just generally feeling stuck, I'm glad you are here. Life is complex and doesn't come with clear and definitive guidelines. No wonder we can feel overwhelmed! Sometimes it can just feel like it too much to manage alone. Working in a therapeutic relationship where you are the focus can help you find ways to learn, grow, and heal.
(647) 930-6082 View (647) 930-6082
Photo of Anuschka Naidoo, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Anuschka Naidoo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summerhill, Toronto, ON M4T
Today, Anuschka is deepening her practice to support the perinatal community in coping with the major life transitions of conceiving, pregnancy, pregnancy-loss, infertility, birth, and postpartum.
Anuschka Naidoo is a Therapist and Founder at Anuna Therapy. She graduated with her Master’s in Counselling Psychology in 2012 and has over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Anuschka is highly skilled and experienced in supporting people with stress and anxiety, low mood and depression, trauma and PTSD, loneliness and isolation, and burnout. She uses an integrative set of evidence-based techniques (ACT, CBT, EFT, Mindfulness-Based Approaches and Self-Compassion) to support clients to get perspective, feel connected, learn helpful tools, and take steps towards their psychotherapeutic goals.
Today, Anuschka is deepening her practice to support the perinatal community in coping with the major life transitions of conceiving, pregnancy, pregnancy-loss, infertility, birth, and postpartum.
Anuschka Naidoo is a Therapist and Founder at Anuna Therapy. She graduated with her Master’s in Counselling Psychology in 2012 and has over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Anuschka is highly skilled and experienced in supporting people with stress and anxiety, low mood and depression, trauma and PTSD, loneliness and isolation, and burnout. She uses an integrative set of evidence-based techniques (ACT, CBT, EFT, Mindfulness-Based Approaches and Self-Compassion) to support clients to get perspective, feel connected, learn helpful tools, and take steps towards their psychotherapeutic goals.
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Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Liz Aram, PsyD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Liz Aram
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5V
Hi, I'm Liz - a clinical psychologist who values building a safe, connected, and empowering therapeutic relationship. I focus on understanding you holistically, choosing depth & experiential change over band-aid solutions & surface conversations. I strive to help you derive meaning from your repeated behavior patterns & complex emotional reactions, as well as deepen self- awareness and strengthen self-worth so you can make personally valued changes when you feel ready for it. I am drawn to working with insecure attachment styles, sex/intimacy issues, highly sensitive folks, queer community, & adult survivors of childhood trauma.
Hi, I'm Liz - a clinical psychologist who values building a safe, connected, and empowering therapeutic relationship. I focus on understanding you holistically, choosing depth & experiential change over band-aid solutions & surface conversations. I strive to help you derive meaning from your repeated behavior patterns & complex emotional reactions, as well as deepen self- awareness and strengthen self-worth so you can make personally valued changes when you feel ready for it. I am drawn to working with insecure attachment styles, sex/intimacy issues, highly sensitive folks, queer community, & adult survivors of childhood trauma.
(437) 529-4947 View (437) 529-4947
Photo of Jennifer Gould, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer Gould
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y
I have a special interest in working with Queer and Disabled individuals.
I am accepting NEW clients for phone & video sessions. I am passionate about using my skills & experience to help children, teenagers & adults overcome life stressors & challenges, strengthen existing coping strategies, learn new practical skills to make sustainable change. I have experience in inpatient & outpatient settings at Sick Kids Hospital and CAMH. I 've treated a range of issues like ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma/PTSD, emotional dysregulation, executive functioning concerns, identity exploration, parenting, life-adjustment/communication difficulties, peer/family conflict, caregiving and end of life support.
I have a special interest in working with Queer and Disabled individuals.
I am accepting NEW clients for phone & video sessions. I am passionate about using my skills & experience to help children, teenagers & adults overcome life stressors & challenges, strengthen existing coping strategies, learn new practical skills to make sustainable change. I have experience in inpatient & outpatient settings at Sick Kids Hospital and CAMH. I 've treated a range of issues like ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma/PTSD, emotional dysregulation, executive functioning concerns, identity exploration, parenting, life-adjustment/communication difficulties, peer/family conflict, caregiving and end of life support.
(249) 202-8514 View (249) 202-8514
Photo of Katelind Biccum - Katelind Biccum: LGBTQ, Neurodiversity, Body Image, RP(Q), Intern, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Katelind Biccum: LGBTQ, Neurodiversity, Body Image
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Katelind, and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, a strong proponent of body positivity and a fierce feminist myself, I'm here to help you transform your struggles into empowerment and radical self-acceptance.
Are you tired of feeling like you don’t fit into society’s outdated expectations of what it means to be a woman? Do you find yourself raging against the oppressive systems that tell you your worth is tied to your body size, sexuality, or ability to conform to outdated norms? You see how messed up it all is but the "old programming" feels engrained, the self-criticism, self-betrayal, people pleasing, "try-harder" mentality, the never feeling "good enough"...it's still there. You've tried to overcome it with self-help, meditation, reading, journaling, but it doesn't seem to stick - it's hard to heal societal wounds alone
Hi, I’m Katelind, and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, a strong proponent of body positivity and a fierce feminist myself, I'm here to help you transform your struggles into empowerment and radical self-acceptance.
Are you tired of feeling like you don’t fit into society’s outdated expectations of what it means to be a woman? Do you find yourself raging against the oppressive systems that tell you your worth is tied to your body size, sexuality, or ability to conform to outdated norms? You see how messed up it all is but the "old programming" feels engrained, the self-criticism, self-betrayal, people pleasing, "try-harder" mentality, the never feeling "good enough"...it's still there. You've tried to overcome it with self-help, meditation, reading, journaling, but it doesn't seem to stick - it's hard to heal societal wounds alone
(289) 402-5990 View (289) 402-5990

See more therapy options for Summerhill, Toronto

LGBTQ+ Counsellors

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialised training, either during their degree programme or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalisation in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialised training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.