LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Woodbridge, ON

Photo of Romina Monastero, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Romina Monastero
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H  (Online Only)
Amid joy and excitement, life is often filled with unexpected challenges. My goal is to help you navigate such challenges through a nonjudgmental and culturally sensitive approach. It is my belief that clients must be empathized with, rather than pathologized. I will be there to listen and support you, regardless of what your unique story entails. I take great interest in helping clients navigate anxiety, relationship challenges, depression, and low self-esteem and am comfortable working with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Amid joy and excitement, life is often filled with unexpected challenges. My goal is to help you navigate such challenges through a nonjudgmental and culturally sensitive approach. It is my belief that clients must be empathized with, rather than pathologized. I will be there to listen and support you, regardless of what your unique story entails. I take great interest in helping clients navigate anxiety, relationship challenges, depression, and low self-esteem and am comfortable working with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
(289) 274-4863 View (289) 274-4863
Photo of Lindsy Berman - Soulstice Health Inc., RSW, MSW, ADS, RYT, CSEPCPT, Registered Social Worker
Soulstice Health Inc.
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, ADS, RYT, CSEPCPT
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4L
Balance of the entire body (mind, body, and soul) is key to achieving and restoring optimal personal health: where unpacking experiences can help build capacity, empowerment, and resilience throughout your personal health journey, transforming you from a state of surviving (doing) into a state of thriving (being).
Soulstice Health Inc. is a community-based Wellness Centre that adopts a holistic understanding of mental and physical health. We aspire to foster optimal personal health and healing from a mind, body, and soul approach. To truly tap into our greatest potential, we believe that self-connection is essential. Working collaboratively with individuals affected by mental health and/or addiction concerns, we support them in finding their own meaningful paths to healing. We are dedicated to helping you find your true self while fostering improved self-care, building on capacity, and realizing your fullest potential.
Balance of the entire body (mind, body, and soul) is key to achieving and restoring optimal personal health: where unpacking experiences can help build capacity, empowerment, and resilience throughout your personal health journey, transforming you from a state of surviving (doing) into a state of thriving (being).
Soulstice Health Inc. is a community-based Wellness Centre that adopts a holistic understanding of mental and physical health. We aspire to foster optimal personal health and healing from a mind, body, and soul approach. To truly tap into our greatest potential, we believe that self-connection is essential. Working collaboratively with individuals affected by mental health and/or addiction concerns, we support them in finding their own meaningful paths to healing. We are dedicated to helping you find your true self while fostering improved self-care, building on capacity, and realizing your fullest potential.
(647) 564-5872 View (647) 564-5872
Photo of Frances D'Amato, MSW, RSW, BA, Registered Social Worker
Frances D'Amato
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4L  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I offer services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families for a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, sexual abuse, poor body image, eating disorders, addictions, low self-esteem, loss and grief and other mental health concerns. I believe that each person is a unique individual with their own personality, thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In therapy, I view you as the expert of your life.
Hello and welcome! I offer services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families for a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, sexual abuse, poor body image, eating disorders, addictions, low self-esteem, loss and grief and other mental health concerns. I believe that each person is a unique individual with their own personality, thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In therapy, I view you as the expert of your life.
(905) 936-4747 View (905) 936-4747
Photo of Shabnam Sarah Moulaei - Talk to Heal Counselling Services, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Talk to Heal Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4L
Is anxiety getting in the way of living? Do you often wonder if your personal life should be better? Are you living in your past - unable to move forward? Do you find yourself disconnected from yourself or your partner? Do you feel safe in your family? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and unsure about how they are supposed to manage different and all demanding aspects of their day-to-day life including, their time, careers, and their families. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself might look like an easy solution at first, but long term it can create mental and physical challenges.
Is anxiety getting in the way of living? Do you often wonder if your personal life should be better? Are you living in your past - unable to move forward? Do you find yourself disconnected from yourself or your partner? Do you feel safe in your family? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and unsure about how they are supposed to manage different and all demanding aspects of their day-to-day life including, their time, careers, and their families. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself might look like an easy solution at first, but long term it can create mental and physical challenges.
(416) 831-2363 View (416) 831-2363
Photo of Paula Scarangella, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Paula Scarangella
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4L
No concern or thought is too small or large to be explored in therapy. I understand that life can bring us suffering, pain, loss, and other experiences that we oftentimes struggle to manage. My goal is to provide a safe space to explore & process your thoughts, emotions, & life situations, no matter how big or small. I understand that each individual's story is unique, & I allow for discovery to occur in a fully confidential, non-judgemental space.
No concern or thought is too small or large to be explored in therapy. I understand that life can bring us suffering, pain, loss, and other experiences that we oftentimes struggle to manage. My goal is to provide a safe space to explore & process your thoughts, emotions, & life situations, no matter how big or small. I understand that each individual's story is unique, & I allow for discovery to occur in a fully confidential, non-judgemental space.
(289) 210-4842 View (289) 210-4842
Photo of Jessica Malynyk - Psychotherapy and Wellness of Central Ontario, BSc, RSSW, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Psychotherapy and Wellness of Central Ontario
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, RSSW, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Jessica Malynyk is the founder of Psychotherapy and Wellness of Central Ontario and a Registered Psychotherapist (11052). Since 2014, she has provided psychotherapeutic support in community settings to individuals dealing with a variety of mental health concerns/stressors including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, emotional dysregulation, relationships, family conflict, grief/loss and substance abuse. (see issues for full list.) Jessica brings forth her professional training and education, but, it is her personal life experience that really allows her to foster a deep connection with her clients.
Jessica Malynyk is the founder of Psychotherapy and Wellness of Central Ontario and a Registered Psychotherapist (11052). Since 2014, she has provided psychotherapeutic support in community settings to individuals dealing with a variety of mental health concerns/stressors including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, emotional dysregulation, relationships, family conflict, grief/loss and substance abuse. (see issues for full list.) Jessica brings forth her professional training and education, but, it is her personal life experience that really allows her to foster a deep connection with her clients.
(249) 501-5226 View (249) 501-5226
Photo of Christine Henein, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Christine Henein
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4H
My Passion is to deliver a message of HOPE to people that I come across. I personally believe that Hope can light a candle in the darkest point of life. Hope is what we all need in order to have a more positive look at life in general and be empowered to make constructive changes and live with a positive attitude. With the increasing challenges in our world and the fact that we are not immune to life's surprises and shocks, our days are becoming more stressful which make us sometimes pay heavy price....
My Passion is to deliver a message of HOPE to people that I come across. I personally believe that Hope can light a candle in the darkest point of life. Hope is what we all need in order to have a more positive look at life in general and be empowered to make constructive changes and live with a positive attitude. With the increasing challenges in our world and the fact that we are not immune to life's surprises and shocks, our days are becoming more stressful which make us sometimes pay heavy price....
(877) 469-5782 View (877) 469-5782
Photo of Laura MacLachlan, BSc, MCP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Laura MacLachlan
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MCP, RP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4L
I am a registered psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. I use evidence-based interventions drawing from cognitive behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and intuitive eating while liaising with other care providers to ensure a holistic approach to intervention. Fees covered by third party insurance/medical benefits.
I am a registered psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. I use evidence-based interventions drawing from cognitive behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and intuitive eating while liaising with other care providers to ensure a holistic approach to intervention. Fees covered by third party insurance/medical benefits.
(289) 217-4928 View (289) 217-4928
Photo of Freshta Jamasi, MA, HBSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Freshta Jamasi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, HBSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H
One of the many things I can appreciate about our society is how people come from different walks of life - we all have a story. These stories, or worldviews, are what shape our personalities and how we perceive and overcome the various obstacles that life may throw at us. I also understand how beginning therapy can be daunting, so I provide a validating and non-judgemental environment with the goal of making clients as comfortable as possible. Helping clients explore their emotions and navigate any problems they may have, together, has always been a passion of mine.
One of the many things I can appreciate about our society is how people come from different walks of life - we all have a story. These stories, or worldviews, are what shape our personalities and how we perceive and overcome the various obstacles that life may throw at us. I also understand how beginning therapy can be daunting, so I provide a validating and non-judgemental environment with the goal of making clients as comfortable as possible. Helping clients explore their emotions and navigate any problems they may have, together, has always been a passion of mine.
(647) 576-2751 View (647) 576-2751
Photo of Maria Pitiakoudis, PsyD, CPsych, Psychologist
Maria Pitiakoudis
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologist of Ontario. I have a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology and an M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. My clinical training is integrative, and includes a directive Cognitive Behavioral method, a more introspective Psychodynamic approach, as well as a holistic Mindfulness style. I incorporate various therapeutic modalities into my clinical practice in accordance with the individual needs of each patient. I am fluent in English and Greek. I currently conduct virtual therapy.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologist of Ontario. I have a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology and an M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. My clinical training is integrative, and includes a directive Cognitive Behavioral method, a more introspective Psychodynamic approach, as well as a holistic Mindfulness style. I incorporate various therapeutic modalities into my clinical practice in accordance with the individual needs of each patient. I am fluent in English and Greek. I currently conduct virtual therapy.
(855) 976-9803 View (855) 976-9803
Photo of Iveta Polonsky, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Iveta Polonsky
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4L  (Online Only)
Some areas of challenges include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, abuse/trauma, relational/family issues, postpartum/maternal and pregnancy struggles, perfectionism, and life transitional difficulties.
Welcome to Therapy Heals! As a psychodynamic psychotherapist, I believe in creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for self-exploration and healing. My client-centered, strength-based, and culturally sensitive approach focuses on providing my clients the means to better understand themselves and their experiences. I work collaboratively with each client, tailoring treatment to their unique needs. My work involves exploration of thoughts, feelings, patterns, and ways of relating to others, as well as building strength, resiliency, and skills to navigate through difficult times and reach desired goals.
Some areas of challenges include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, abuse/trauma, relational/family issues, postpartum/maternal and pregnancy struggles, perfectionism, and life transitional difficulties.
Welcome to Therapy Heals! As a psychodynamic psychotherapist, I believe in creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for self-exploration and healing. My client-centered, strength-based, and culturally sensitive approach focuses on providing my clients the means to better understand themselves and their experiences. I work collaboratively with each client, tailoring treatment to their unique needs. My work involves exploration of thoughts, feelings, patterns, and ways of relating to others, as well as building strength, resiliency, and skills to navigate through difficult times and reach desired goals.
(888) 340-4325 View (888) 340-4325
Photo of Mary Marano, MA, RP, Counsellor
Mary Marano
Counsellor, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H
For many, therapy is sought out because of a crisis situation. It is difficult to live with feelings of anxiety, anger and despair. These feelings can affect your marriage, family, children and work life by creating conflict. It is my hope to restore a sense of calm during this time of self discovery and support you through life's challenges. I will offer you realistic, easy to use tools and strategies that can work to repair and enhance your relationships. Learn to set boundaries, repair and recover from infidelity, manage anger and build trust in a safe and compassionate environment.
For many, therapy is sought out because of a crisis situation. It is difficult to live with feelings of anxiety, anger and despair. These feelings can affect your marriage, family, children and work life by creating conflict. It is my hope to restore a sense of calm during this time of self discovery and support you through life's challenges. I will offer you realistic, easy to use tools and strategies that can work to repair and enhance your relationships. Learn to set boundaries, repair and recover from infidelity, manage anger and build trust in a safe and compassionate environment.
(855) 979-7719 View (855) 979-7719
Photo of Arbus Weidenfelder - Dr. Arbus & Dr. Weidenfelder and Associates, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Arbus & Dr. Weidenfelder and Associates
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4H
Dr. Arbus and Dr. Weidenfelder are registered clinical psychologists with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and are memebers of the Ontario Psychological Association. Currently, both doctors work full time at our private practice location treating children, adolescents, adults, and families with a variety of mental health needs. At our office we provide numerous psychological services including psychodianostic and psychoeducational assessments, psychotherapy, and consultation. Dr. Arbus and Dr. Weidenfelder have extensive experience in both hospital and community based treatment centers including Brampton Civic Hospital, McMaster Children's Hospital, and Whitby Mental Health Center. We look forward to helping you.
Dr. Arbus and Dr. Weidenfelder are registered clinical psychologists with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and are memebers of the Ontario Psychological Association. Currently, both doctors work full time at our private practice location treating children, adolescents, adults, and families with a variety of mental health needs. At our office we provide numerous psychological services including psychodianostic and psychoeducational assessments, psychotherapy, and consultation. Dr. Arbus and Dr. Weidenfelder have extensive experience in both hospital and community based treatment centers including Brampton Civic Hospital, McMaster Children's Hospital, and Whitby Mental Health Center. We look forward to helping you.
(647) 933-9775 View (647) 933-9775
Photo of Stefanie Gorendar - York Region Healing Arts, BA, Hons, MA, RP, ECPC, Registered Psychotherapist
York Region Healing Arts
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, Hons, MA, RP, ECPC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4H
We specialize in Anxiety, Life Transitions, Behavioural Problems, Stress, Depression, Divorce, Fertility, Self-Esteem Enhancement and Other Life Difficulties.
Are you looking to make some positive changes in your life? Are you tired of being stuck in a rut? If you are struggling with life transitions, relationship difficulties, stress, anxiety or depression we provide a warm environment to explore those struggles in order to work with you to create the life that you want to live. Stefanie is a registered psychotherapist and certified life coach and utilizes skills from both areas to work through those difficulties. We also offer flexible scheduling times such as weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
We specialize in Anxiety, Life Transitions, Behavioural Problems, Stress, Depression, Divorce, Fertility, Self-Esteem Enhancement and Other Life Difficulties.
Are you looking to make some positive changes in your life? Are you tired of being stuck in a rut? If you are struggling with life transitions, relationship difficulties, stress, anxiety or depression we provide a warm environment to explore those struggles in order to work with you to create the life that you want to live. Stefanie is a registered psychotherapist and certified life coach and utilizes skills from both areas to work through those difficulties. We also offer flexible scheduling times such as weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
(289) 277-0520 View (289) 277-0520
Photo of Natalie Velbovets, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Natalie Velbovets
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4L
I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment that helps to explore your inner  thoughts, feelings, emotions, conflicts and experiences that may negatively influence your life change them and transform them to your growth.
Our life is not always easy. Sometimes we feel that everything is quite complicated and confusing. I am here to help you to look at yourself, your beliefs, your emotions, your relationships and your life from a different perspective. Sometimes, when you feel stuck and confused, anxious or depressed you need someone who will be with you and help you on that journey. Sometimes you may feel that something is not right with you, that you are broken or you are not loved, you have issues with self-esteem but it shouldn't be your reality for the rest of your life. We can start looking at that together changing it step by step.
I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment that helps to explore your inner  thoughts, feelings, emotions, conflicts and experiences that may negatively influence your life change them and transform them to your growth.
Our life is not always easy. Sometimes we feel that everything is quite complicated and confusing. I am here to help you to look at yourself, your beliefs, your emotions, your relationships and your life from a different perspective. Sometimes, when you feel stuck and confused, anxious or depressed you need someone who will be with you and help you on that journey. Sometimes you may feel that something is not right with you, that you are broken or you are not loved, you have issues with self-esteem but it shouldn't be your reality for the rest of your life. We can start looking at that together changing it step by step.
(365) 800-5654 View (365) 800-5654
Photo of Tania da Costa, RSW, MSW, RP, Registered Social Worker
Tania da Costa
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, RP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4L
Often when we experience difficulties in life we can feel stuck. We may spend our time and energy ruminating about the past or worrying about the future, leading us to miss the present moment. "The past is finished. Learn from it and let it go.The future is not here yet. Plan for it, but do not waste your time worrying about it.Worrying is worthless"(Brian L. Weiss).I'm passionate about my work and will work to help you tackle life's challenges that fit your lifestyle and goals for therapeutic change. By creating a safe, warm and welcoming environment as the foundation to help create change and help prevent later suffering/hardship
Often when we experience difficulties in life we can feel stuck. We may spend our time and energy ruminating about the past or worrying about the future, leading us to miss the present moment. "The past is finished. Learn from it and let it go.The future is not here yet. Plan for it, but do not waste your time worrying about it.Worrying is worthless"(Brian L. Weiss).I'm passionate about my work and will work to help you tackle life's challenges that fit your lifestyle and goals for therapeutic change. By creating a safe, warm and welcoming environment as the foundation to help create change and help prevent later suffering/hardship
(289) 210-5959 View (289) 210-5959
Photo of Dr. Ambreen Basria, PsyD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Ambreen Basria
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4L
I work with clients that are gender non conforming, exploring gender identity, fertility challenges, postpartum and perinatal mental health issues, relational issues, anxiety, depression, mood related concerns, first responders, and exploring their own identity. I work with clients from a solution focus, humanistic, and person centered approach. I believe the client is the expert in their life, their challenges, and really emphasize guiding treatment through the lens of the client. I offer virtual sessions and in person sessions, which gives you the luxury of having therapy in the space of your own comfort.
I work with clients that are gender non conforming, exploring gender identity, fertility challenges, postpartum and perinatal mental health issues, relational issues, anxiety, depression, mood related concerns, first responders, and exploring their own identity. I work with clients from a solution focus, humanistic, and person centered approach. I believe the client is the expert in their life, their challenges, and really emphasize guiding treatment through the lens of the client. I offer virtual sessions and in person sessions, which gives you the luxury of having therapy in the space of your own comfort.
(289) 797-3202 View (289) 797-3202
Photo of Stephanie Barbosa, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Stephanie Barbosa
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H
My ideal client is anyone that may be struggling with their mood, or are in a difficult life stage that they need help navigating. Whether you are a child with separation anxiety, an adolescent or young adult going through a break up or a first time parent. I welcome clients who have specific goals for therapy and know what they want to work on. I also welcome clients who have no idea what goal setting is or how to set goals. I encourage the very brave and courageous clients who are skeptical about therapy and aren’t quite sure what they can gain from therapy or how they can benefit.
My ideal client is anyone that may be struggling with their mood, or are in a difficult life stage that they need help navigating. Whether you are a child with separation anxiety, an adolescent or young adult going through a break up or a first time parent. I welcome clients who have specific goals for therapy and know what they want to work on. I also welcome clients who have no idea what goal setting is or how to set goals. I encourage the very brave and courageous clients who are skeptical about therapy and aren’t quite sure what they can gain from therapy or how they can benefit.
(289) 212-6894 View (289) 212-6894
Photo of Alessandra Trani, BSc, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Alessandra Trani
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H  (Online Only)
I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can freely express yourself. Together, we can discover effective strategies to bring lasting positive changes to your life. I work with teens and adults dealing with various issues including anxiety, phobias, depression, attachment injuries, school or work related stress, interpersonal difficulties and overall promoting self-resiliency. I also work with couples, fostering deeper understanding and helping them break free from negative patterns. I balance my approach by challenging and working towards growth while also holding space for your experience and pace
I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can freely express yourself. Together, we can discover effective strategies to bring lasting positive changes to your life. I work with teens and adults dealing with various issues including anxiety, phobias, depression, attachment injuries, school or work related stress, interpersonal difficulties and overall promoting self-resiliency. I also work with couples, fostering deeper understanding and helping them break free from negative patterns. I balance my approach by challenging and working towards growth while also holding space for your experience and pace
(365) 300-2357 View (365) 300-2357
Photo of Anahita Jakibchuk, CRPO, RP, CCPA, ROAT, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Anahita Jakibchuk
Registered Psychotherapist, CRPO, RP, CCPA, ROAT, MA
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4H
I am a registered psychotherapist and also a registered art psychotherapist. I am located in Vaughan, ON and offer therapy who have mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. I believe that my clients have their individual and unique needs, and each person should be treated based on their specific challenges. I offer therapy sessions in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space and I love seeing them feel better and leaving my room with good coping skills and ideas that can help them improve their mental health challenges.
I am a registered psychotherapist and also a registered art psychotherapist. I am located in Vaughan, ON and offer therapy who have mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. I believe that my clients have their individual and unique needs, and each person should be treated based on their specific challenges. I offer therapy sessions in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space and I love seeing them feel better and leaving my room with good coping skills and ideas that can help them improve their mental health challenges.
(289) 271-1765 View (289) 271-1765

See more therapy options for Woodbridge

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.