Photo of Makinz Madigan Meisel, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Makinz Madigan Meisel
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
***CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** I am a client-centered, trauma-informed practicing queer social worker. I specialize in clinical practice; as well as, connecting my clients to appropriate community services and supports. I am committed to serving diverse communities as a social worker and advocate. I specialize in aiding 2SLGBTQIA communities with a focus on folks who identify as transgender/non gender conforming/fluid. Moreover, I have years of experience working with individuals with disabilities, dual diagnosis, mental health, specifically mood disorders, and trauma.
***CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** I am a client-centered, trauma-informed practicing queer social worker. I specialize in clinical practice; as well as, connecting my clients to appropriate community services and supports. I am committed to serving diverse communities as a social worker and advocate. I specialize in aiding 2SLGBTQIA communities with a focus on folks who identify as transgender/non gender conforming/fluid. Moreover, I have years of experience working with individuals with disabilities, dual diagnosis, mental health, specifically mood disorders, and trauma.
(647) 492-5207 View (647) 492-5207
Photo of Hannah Bailey, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Hannah Bailey
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M1T  (Online Only)
I also specialize in counselling 2SLGBTQ+ clients who are interested in working towards goals, such as: exploring sexuality or gender identity, learning ways to manage gender dysphoria symptoms , navigating homo/bi/transphobia in various contexts, navigating relationships with family and/or friends after coming out, etc.
Hi, my name is Hannah. I use she/her and they/them pronouns. I believe every client is different and deserves their own unique therapy experience. Before we begin our work together, we will create a collaborative treatment plan, informed by your goals for therapy. My approach is gentle, with a hint of compassionate confrontation. I embrace an anti-oppressive framework, with intentional attunement to the intersections of your identity (e.g. gender, race, age, sexual orientation, etc.). Knowing how difficult therapy can be, I also try to bring humour into my sessions as much as possible.
I also specialize in counselling 2SLGBTQ+ clients who are interested in working towards goals, such as: exploring sexuality or gender identity, learning ways to manage gender dysphoria symptoms , navigating homo/bi/transphobia in various contexts, navigating relationships with family and/or friends after coming out, etc.
Hi, my name is Hannah. I use she/her and they/them pronouns. I believe every client is different and deserves their own unique therapy experience. Before we begin our work together, we will create a collaborative treatment plan, informed by your goals for therapy. My approach is gentle, with a hint of compassionate confrontation. I embrace an anti-oppressive framework, with intentional attunement to the intersections of your identity (e.g. gender, race, age, sexual orientation, etc.). Knowing how difficult therapy can be, I also try to bring humour into my sessions as much as possible.
(548) 901-0226 View (548) 901-0226
Photo of Rylie Moore, PhD, CPysch, Psychologist
Rylie Moore
Psychologist, PhD, CPysch
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5A
I have specific interests and extensive clinical experience in working with individuals within the 2SLGBTQA+ community, including the assessment and treatment of gender dysphoria, as well as the intersection of mental health issues within the 2SLGBTQA+ community.
Assessment and Psychotherapy Services: During our appointments, we will work together to understand what is happening for you in its larger context, including your past experiences and your social world. Using this holistic, collaborative and relational approach will ensure the work we do is helpful and meaningful for you. My therapeutic approach is neurodiverse-, queer-, trauma-informed, using a combination of CBT, IPT, IFS, IPT, DBT, psychodynamic, and mindfulness-based therapies. These approaches provide an effective perspective from which to understand factors that may contribute to and maintain mental health difficulties.
I have specific interests and extensive clinical experience in working with individuals within the 2SLGBTQA+ community, including the assessment and treatment of gender dysphoria, as well as the intersection of mental health issues within the 2SLGBTQA+ community.
Assessment and Psychotherapy Services: During our appointments, we will work together to understand what is happening for you in its larger context, including your past experiences and your social world. Using this holistic, collaborative and relational approach will ensure the work we do is helpful and meaningful for you. My therapeutic approach is neurodiverse-, queer-, trauma-informed, using a combination of CBT, IPT, IFS, IPT, DBT, psychodynamic, and mindfulness-based therapies. These approaches provide an effective perspective from which to understand factors that may contribute to and maintain mental health difficulties.
(289) 816-6545 View (289) 816-6545
Photo of Dr. Ammaar Kidwai - Centre For Psychology And Emotional Healt, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Ammaar Kidwai - Centre For Psychology And Emotional Healt
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
I specialize in assessing and treating a broad range of concerns among adults and couples. These include low mood, depression, grief, anxiety (e.g., social anxiety, panic, generalized anxiety, health anxiety), perfectionism, OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder including complex trauma (e.g., interpersonal, racial, sexual), relationship difficulties, gender and sexual identity (e.g., homophobia, transphobia), emotional regulation difficulties, suicidality, and psychosis. Moreover, I am qualified to conduct assessments for gender dysphoria and surgical readiness for transgender and other gender diverse individuals.
I specialize in assessing and treating a broad range of concerns among adults and couples. These include low mood, depression, grief, anxiety (e.g., social anxiety, panic, generalized anxiety, health anxiety), perfectionism, OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder including complex trauma (e.g., interpersonal, racial, sexual), relationship difficulties, gender and sexual identity (e.g., homophobia, transphobia), emotional regulation difficulties, suicidality, and psychosis. Moreover, I am qualified to conduct assessments for gender dysphoria and surgical readiness for transgender and other gender diverse individuals.
(437) 500-6477 View (437) 500-6477
Photo of Kai Grant
Kai Grant
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6N  (Online Only)
It is seeming all too normal these days to experience feelings of disconnection. A separation from ourselves, our passions, our bodies, our communities, etc. We spend so much time in our heads trying to figure out how to survive when we so desperately want to be thriving. Where has our aliveness gone? How do we get our bodies and our senses back online and truly show up for our unique experience?
It is seeming all too normal these days to experience feelings of disconnection. A separation from ourselves, our passions, our bodies, our communities, etc. We spend so much time in our heads trying to figure out how to survive when we so desperately want to be thriving. Where has our aliveness gone? How do we get our bodies and our senses back online and truly show up for our unique experience?
(647) 492-6054 View (647) 492-6054
Photo of Tate Sameshima, dipTIRP, BFA, Registered Psychotherapist
Tate Sameshima
Registered Psychotherapist, dipTIRP, BFA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed by the current state of the world and all its grieving parts or you’ve been meaning to start this journey for a while now. Maybe you've noticed a repeating of patterns in relationships, causing you upset and overwhelm. Though there will likely be tough moments, it is my hope that your time in therapy will also feel supportive, dynamic, playful, empowering and affirming. No matter what you bring with you, we can move through it all and make sense of it, together.
Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed by the current state of the world and all its grieving parts or you’ve been meaning to start this journey for a while now. Maybe you've noticed a repeating of patterns in relationships, causing you upset and overwhelm. Though there will likely be tough moments, it is my hope that your time in therapy will also feel supportive, dynamic, playful, empowering and affirming. No matter what you bring with you, we can move through it all and make sense of it, together.
(289) 276-7528 View (289) 276-7528
Photo of Emily Ritenburg - Aroha Pride Counselling & Consulting, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Aroha Pride Counselling & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M2K  (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 Siobhan Cassidy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Siobhan Cassidy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
I work with you to create a safe space for us to explore some of the areas in your life you are struggling with. I believe in naming the strengths in ourselves that resist, or push back against, hardship as points of transformation into a more fulfilling and joyful life.
I work with you to create a safe space for us to explore some of the areas in your life you are struggling with. I believe in naming the strengths in ourselves that resist, or push back against, hardship as points of transformation into a more fulfilling and joyful life.
(647) 277-4971 View (647) 277-4971
Photo of Jenn Labrecque, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jenn Labrecque
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4W
Therapy offers us the opportunity to have the support we need to examine those areas of our lives we find painful, confusing, and challenging. My goal is to help you through any difficulties you are experiencing so that you can have better relationships and feel better about yourself. Topics of interest include depression and anxiety, relationship problems, addiction, self-harming behaviour, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, as well as pet loss.
Therapy offers us the opportunity to have the support we need to examine those areas of our lives we find painful, confusing, and challenging. My goal is to help you through any difficulties you are experiencing so that you can have better relationships and feel better about yourself. Topics of interest include depression and anxiety, relationship problems, addiction, self-harming behaviour, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, as well as pet loss.
(587) 600-7941 View (587) 600-7941
Photo of deegan Slate, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
deegan Slate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M1T  (Online Only)
Over the past two decades, I have been working with children, youth and adults from an anti-oppressive, strength-based and client-centered approach. Having worked in a variety of clinical and non-clinical settings, with training in various therapeutic modalities, I work with my clients to best understand what goals they want to focus on. It is important that every person who seeks counselling is supported by someone they feel comfortable and confident with. I welcome the opportunity to discuss whether I could be a fit for you.
Over the past two decades, I have been working with children, youth and adults from an anti-oppressive, strength-based and client-centered approach. Having worked in a variety of clinical and non-clinical settings, with training in various therapeutic modalities, I work with my clients to best understand what goals they want to focus on. It is important that every person who seeks counselling is supported by someone they feel comfortable and confident with. I welcome the opportunity to discuss whether I could be a fit for you.
(807) 500-7153 View (807) 500-7153
Photo of Myroslava O. Tyzkyj, BA, RVT, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Myroslava O. Tyzkyj
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RVT, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5S  (Online Only)
I see you. You’re tired of struggling and feeling like you're always messing things up. You just want things to be easier and to find some peace, but you don't know how. I get that it can be hard to feel motivated to do the things you know will make you feel better. It's hard to know how to change when you're not even sure who you are. It's painful to feel misunderstood and hard to have to figure it out all on your own. Somehow, you know you need to get out of your own way, you just don't know where to start. Don’t worry, I’ve got you. You aren’t doomed to feel this way forever. I’ll walk with you, to help you to find your way out.
I see you. You’re tired of struggling and feeling like you're always messing things up. You just want things to be easier and to find some peace, but you don't know how. I get that it can be hard to feel motivated to do the things you know will make you feel better. It's hard to know how to change when you're not even sure who you are. It's painful to feel misunderstood and hard to have to figure it out all on your own. Somehow, you know you need to get out of your own way, you just don't know where to start. Don’t worry, I’ve got you. You aren’t doomed to feel this way forever. I’ll walk with you, to help you to find your way out.
(437) 747-0927 View (437) 747-0927
Photo of The Heart Of Healing Counselling Services - The Heart of Healing Counselling Services, MSW RSW, Registered Social Worker
The Heart of Healing Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4M
FREE 15-MIN consults available! Anxiety, loneliness, burnout, stress, family, ADHD, trauma, or life transitions (to name a few) … if you need help with any of these, you've come to the right place. We are here to help you find solutions or provide a listening ear. We've worked with people from diverse backgrounds and ages and what’s most important to know is that at the heart of healing… is connection. Whether it's connecting with loved ones or seeking guidance from a counselor, creating a safe space is key to inspiring change. Let us support you in making positive changes and living your best life.
FREE 15-MIN consults available! Anxiety, loneliness, burnout, stress, family, ADHD, trauma, or life transitions (to name a few) … if you need help with any of these, you've come to the right place. We are here to help you find solutions or provide a listening ear. We've worked with people from diverse backgrounds and ages and what’s most important to know is that at the heart of healing… is connection. Whether it's connecting with loved ones or seeking guidance from a counselor, creating a safe space is key to inspiring change. Let us support you in making positive changes and living your best life.
(647) 277-4762 View (647) 277-4762
Photo of Marlen Iskander, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Marlen Iskander
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
(289) 216-5843 View (289) 216-5843
Photo of Karlie Chalmers, BA, MscOT, Occupational Therapist
Karlie Chalmers
Occupational Therapist, BA, MscOT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6E
Welcome. I’m happy you’re here because it means you believe things can get better, and that means you have hope. Hope is a great starting point. All of us woke up in this place called life, and none of us got a manual, let me help you make the most of it. I strive to create a warm, collaborative, and welcoming atmosphere where your bravery and vulnerability are met with a non-judgmental and curious attitude that allows for new insights and self-awareness to surface. I love walking alongside my client’s on their journey to build resilience, tenacity and self-leadership.
Welcome. I’m happy you’re here because it means you believe things can get better, and that means you have hope. Hope is a great starting point. All of us woke up in this place called life, and none of us got a manual, let me help you make the most of it. I strive to create a warm, collaborative, and welcoming atmosphere where your bravery and vulnerability are met with a non-judgmental and curious attitude that allows for new insights and self-awareness to surface. I love walking alongside my client’s on their journey to build resilience, tenacity and self-leadership.
(437) 747-8479 View (437) 747-8479
Photo of Esther Persaud, BScN, RN, CMT, CNP(Q)
Esther Persaud
BScN, RN, CMT, CNP(Q)
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4L
Whether we identify as male, female, transgendered, non-binary, mother, father, or other, I know one thing for sure; we are humans playing a part in this game of life. We all practice being human, unconsciously and/or consciously. We all experience life's most difficult trials and troubles and yes, we also experience joy. This is immutable. Given this reality, how can we live our life optimally, rich with purpose and fulfillment while balancing the curve balls, the numbness, the stress, the cravings, or the hurt? The truth is, you can do it. We can do it together. Sometimes all you need is a patient helping hand.
Whether we identify as male, female, transgendered, non-binary, mother, father, or other, I know one thing for sure; we are humans playing a part in this game of life. We all practice being human, unconsciously and/or consciously. We all experience life's most difficult trials and troubles and yes, we also experience joy. This is immutable. Given this reality, how can we live our life optimally, rich with purpose and fulfillment while balancing the curve balls, the numbness, the stress, the cravings, or the hurt? The truth is, you can do it. We can do it together. Sometimes all you need is a patient helping hand.
(289) 312-4849 View (289) 312-4849
Photo of Tania Medeiros, MSW, RSW, MA, Registered Social Worker
Tania Medeiros
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
When life begins to feel challenging and overwhelming, it can be difficult to create space for calm and stillness. We may even seek to avoid the quiet altogether, fearing the thoughts that arise or the emotions we keep buried beneath the surface. It often feels easier to distract ourselves from our thoughts or to numb and detach from the challenging emotions that inevitably emerge. Therapy can provide us with a space to turn inward and deeply connect with ourselves, allowing us to bring awareness to our patterns, better understand our needs, move towards acceptance, or even work towards change.
When life begins to feel challenging and overwhelming, it can be difficult to create space for calm and stillness. We may even seek to avoid the quiet altogether, fearing the thoughts that arise or the emotions we keep buried beneath the surface. It often feels easier to distract ourselves from our thoughts or to numb and detach from the challenging emotions that inevitably emerge. Therapy can provide us with a space to turn inward and deeply connect with ourselves, allowing us to bring awareness to our patterns, better understand our needs, move towards acceptance, or even work towards change.
(289) 677-0153 View (289) 677-0153
Photo of Rae Massop - Aworie Health, RSW, PhD, MSW
Aworie Health
RSW, PhD, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G
Sliding scale fees for counselling can be hard to come by in today's economy. Aworie is a professional counseling and therapy organization that provides counselling on a sliding scale without the hassle of lengthy waitlists.
Sliding scale fees for counselling can be hard to come by in today's economy. Aworie is a professional counseling and therapy organization that provides counselling on a sliding scale without the hassle of lengthy waitlists.
(437) 292-3055 x403 View (437) 292-3055 x403
Photo of Daniel Lee @ Kaleidoscope Counselling Collective 🌈, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Daniel Lee @ Kaleidoscope Counselling Collective 🌈
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2R  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Daniel! Are you struggling with your mood, stress, or figuring out your future goals (i.e. career, school, etc.)? Do you feel curious or confused about your gender or sexuality, or are you trying to make sense of your religious or cultural beliefs as a queer person? In this impersonal & tumultuous world, we’re all feeling the weight of our emotions, daily responsibilities and uncertainty about our futures. Now more than ever, we’re feeling overwhelmed with expectations, and uncertain about how we're supposed to manage it all. It shouldn’t be so hard to live a life that feels good, and I truly believe that therapy can help!
Hi, I’m Daniel! Are you struggling with your mood, stress, or figuring out your future goals (i.e. career, school, etc.)? Do you feel curious or confused about your gender or sexuality, or are you trying to make sense of your religious or cultural beliefs as a queer person? In this impersonal & tumultuous world, we’re all feeling the weight of our emotions, daily responsibilities and uncertainty about our futures. Now more than ever, we’re feeling overwhelmed with expectations, and uncertain about how we're supposed to manage it all. It shouldn’t be so hard to live a life that feels good, and I truly believe that therapy can help!
(855) 817-2705 View (855) 817-2705
Photo of Natasha Burrow, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Natasha Burrow
Registered Psychotherapist, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4C
I am a gender non-conforming/non-binary queer whose approach is a blend of embodiment, metaphor, humor, and vitality. Gestalt therapy is a relational, experiential, and embodied approach with the goal to help you become more aware. This awareness can then help you to see your experiences and issues in new or different ways. I have an active movement practice as well as training in dance and yoga, which greatly influences my embodied response and awareness within the co-created field. Visit my website to learn more: talktonb.ca
I am a gender non-conforming/non-binary queer whose approach is a blend of embodiment, metaphor, humor, and vitality. Gestalt therapy is a relational, experiential, and embodied approach with the goal to help you become more aware. This awareness can then help you to see your experiences and issues in new or different ways. I have an active movement practice as well as training in dance and yoga, which greatly influences my embodied response and awareness within the co-created field. Visit my website to learn more: talktonb.ca
View
Photo of James Sullivan, BMus, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
James Sullivan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BMus, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5A  (Online Only)
I aim to help clients gain a deeper understanding of self, starting with their own relationship with their self. Striding towards self acceptance, while working through challenges brought on by , self-esteem, sexuality, gender, anxiety, neurodivergence, depression and much more. Self-exploration often comes with discomfort, as your guide I will walk alongside you on your journey. I am a firm believer that each client is the expert in their own life, and encourage independence, confidence, self-care in all aspects of life. While my clients often reflect similarities in my own identity, I work with clients from all backgrounds.
I aim to help clients gain a deeper understanding of self, starting with their own relationship with their self. Striding towards self acceptance, while working through challenges brought on by , self-esteem, sexuality, gender, anxiety, neurodivergence, depression and much more. Self-exploration often comes with discomfort, as your guide I will walk alongside you on your journey. I am a firm believer that each client is the expert in their own life, and encourage independence, confidence, self-care in all aspects of life. While my clients often reflect similarities in my own identity, I work with clients from all backgrounds.
(437) 500-6423 View (437) 500-6423
1
...

See more therapy options for Toronto

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.