LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Brighton, ENG

Photo of Dana Cohen, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Dana Cohen
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN2  (Online Only)
I am an LGBTQ affirmative counsellor and psychotherapist, working with LGBTQ individuals and couples throughout the UK. Those of us who are LGBTQ often need more support to thrive. Experiences of marginalisation and discrimination can deeply affect how we feel about ourselves, our lives and our relationships. I support people to navigate a wide range of issues, including loneliness, loss, relationship difficulties, coming out, and self-esteem. I provide a safe, confidential space where you can talk freely about what is on your heart and mind, and explore your fears, hopes and dreams.
I am an LGBTQ affirmative counsellor and psychotherapist, working with LGBTQ individuals and couples throughout the UK. Those of us who are LGBTQ often need more support to thrive. Experiences of marginalisation and discrimination can deeply affect how we feel about ourselves, our lives and our relationships. I support people to navigate a wide range of issues, including loneliness, loss, relationship difficulties, coming out, and self-esteem. I provide a safe, confidential space where you can talk freely about what is on your heart and mind, and explore your fears, hopes and dreams.
01273 036050 View 01273 036050
Photo of Jill Deacon Online Therapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Jill Deacon Online Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1  (Online Only)
I provide a welcoming and supportive space for LGBTQ individuals, addressing issues related to gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
Speaking with someone for the first time about personal issues or trauma can feel really daunting. It is important to feel safe and not judged when talking about difficult things, and my aim is for us to develop a relationship where you can explore whatever it is that you need to. There is not an exhaustive list of the reasons for coming to counselling initially but one thing is sure and that is it begins with building trust and beginning to speak openly. Our sessions will be collaborative: I will facilitate, but you will lead the way. Even if you can't pin point why things feel difficult, you're not alone.
I provide a welcoming and supportive space for LGBTQ individuals, addressing issues related to gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
Speaking with someone for the first time about personal issues or trauma can feel really daunting. It is important to feel safe and not judged when talking about difficult things, and my aim is for us to develop a relationship where you can explore whatever it is that you need to. There is not an exhaustive list of the reasons for coming to counselling initially but one thing is sure and that is it begins with building trust and beginning to speak openly. Our sessions will be collaborative: I will facilitate, but you will lead the way. Even if you can't pin point why things feel difficult, you're not alone.
01273 121297 View 01273 121297
Photo of Cloe Jackson, MBACP, Counsellor
Cloe Jackson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1
I'm an LGBTQIA+ & neurodivergent-identified creative therapist, committed to working with the full spectrum of human experience.
We all have the right to be our own expression of human. Maybe you struggle with feeling that there’s something ‘wrong’ or ‘different’ about you? Maybe life sometimes feel too difficult to manage? Or you may often feel that you need to hide, change, or control aspects of yourself in the outside world. Life often presents us with unexpected challenges and having someone there to support you can make these challenges feel more manageable. I passionately believe in empowering individuals to find their own answers to the challenges they face. I value diversity, integrity, connection, and the journey of self-discovery.
I'm an LGBTQIA+ & neurodivergent-identified creative therapist, committed to working with the full spectrum of human experience.
We all have the right to be our own expression of human. Maybe you struggle with feeling that there’s something ‘wrong’ or ‘different’ about you? Maybe life sometimes feel too difficult to manage? Or you may often feel that you need to hide, change, or control aspects of yourself in the outside world. Life often presents us with unexpected challenges and having someone there to support you can make these challenges feel more manageable. I passionately believe in empowering individuals to find their own answers to the challenges they face. I value diversity, integrity, connection, and the journey of self-discovery.
01273 092949 View 01273 092949
Photo of Sebastian Beaumont, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Sebastian Beaumont
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1
Are you dealing with a single life event or issues / trauma from earlier in your life? Are these affecting your emotional health? If so, I provide a safe, friendly space in which to explore particular problems or psychological patterns that you may have. The counselling I offer allows us to make sense of what has happened to you, thus giving rise to greater self-awareness and positive change plus the ability to resolve present or past issues. Counselling is an exciting and challenging healing journey which we can take together with sensitivity and respect. My experience is largely within, but not exclusive to, the LGBT+ community.
Are you dealing with a single life event or issues / trauma from earlier in your life? Are these affecting your emotional health? If so, I provide a safe, friendly space in which to explore particular problems or psychological patterns that you may have. The counselling I offer allows us to make sense of what has happened to you, thus giving rise to greater self-awareness and positive change plus the ability to resolve present or past issues. Counselling is an exciting and challenging healing journey which we can take together with sensitivity and respect. My experience is largely within, but not exclusive to, the LGBT+ community.
01273 092727 View 01273 092727
Photo of Peter Golder - Acorn Counselling Therapy, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Acorn Counselling Therapy
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1
My specialism lies in working with issues realted to being LGBTQ.
Like acorns, a change in your life can start small and grow into something strong and powerful. With a focused approach on developing greater self-understanding and awareness, we would work together on the changes you want. I offer a space where people transform who they were into who they want to be.
My specialism lies in working with issues realted to being LGBTQ.
Like acorns, a change in your life can start small and grow into something strong and powerful. With a focused approach on developing greater self-understanding and awareness, we would work together on the changes you want. I offer a space where people transform who they were into who they want to be.
01273 037780 View 01273 037780
Photo of John Davis, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
John Davis
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1
Whilst my work has been wide-ranging, I have particular experience in working with adolescents, members of the LGBT community & people struggling with thoughts around those big existential issues such as finding meaning in life, who am I and that awareness of our own mortality.
Welcome. I am an Integrative Psychotherapist who has worked in depth with both adolescents & adults dealing with a variety of issues; depression, bereavement, sexuality, anxiety, relationships and complex life issues which sometimes cause us distress in our life. For me it is important to get to know you and learn where you would like the focus of our work to be. I can offer you a safe space in which we can explore your issues and gain new perspectives on them; hopefully enabling you to move forward in life
Whilst my work has been wide-ranging, I have particular experience in working with adolescents, members of the LGBT community & people struggling with thoughts around those big existential issues such as finding meaning in life, who am I and that awareness of our own mortality.
Welcome. I am an Integrative Psychotherapist who has worked in depth with both adolescents & adults dealing with a variety of issues; depression, bereavement, sexuality, anxiety, relationships and complex life issues which sometimes cause us distress in our life. For me it is important to get to know you and learn where you would like the focus of our work to be. I can offer you a safe space in which we can explore your issues and gain new perspectives on them; hopefully enabling you to move forward in life
020 3962 1276 View 020 3962 1276
Photo of Erinn T. Brown, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Erinn T. Brown
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1
Limited spaces available • I specialize in working with clients experiencing difficulties with self-esteem, assertiveness, childhood relational trauma, exploration of sexual orientation and gender, and ADHD. I work frequently with individuals who identify with the LGBTQ+, gifted, and neurodivergent communities. Using an integrative approach tailored to the needs of each individual, I strive to help my clients understand and find practical ways to cope with their challenges. I primarily draw upon person-centred, psychodynamic, and solution-focused approaches to therapy in my work.
Limited spaces available • I specialize in working with clients experiencing difficulties with self-esteem, assertiveness, childhood relational trauma, exploration of sexual orientation and gender, and ADHD. I work frequently with individuals who identify with the LGBTQ+, gifted, and neurodivergent communities. Using an integrative approach tailored to the needs of each individual, I strive to help my clients understand and find practical ways to cope with their challenges. I primarily draw upon person-centred, psychodynamic, and solution-focused approaches to therapy in my work.
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Photo of James William Deaville, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
James William Deaville
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton BN1
A lot of the work that I have done has been focused on LGBTQIA+, GSRD and disability issues.
I am a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist working in a person-centred way. This means that no session is approached with a set agenda. The session shall be guided by what you would like to discuss. My role is to metaphorically walk alongside you as a gentle guide. I aim to provide an empathic, sincere and warm space for you to explore your emotions, find your voice and develop an understanding of what may be going on for you. I am based in Stoke-on-Trent for anybody wanting in-person sessions; however, I also offer online sessions.
A lot of the work that I have done has been focused on LGBTQIA+, GSRD and disability issues.
I am a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist working in a person-centred way. This means that no session is approached with a set agenda. The session shall be guided by what you would like to discuss. My role is to metaphorically walk alongside you as a gentle guide. I aim to provide an empathic, sincere and warm space for you to explore your emotions, find your voice and develop an understanding of what may be going on for you. I am based in Stoke-on-Trent for anybody wanting in-person sessions; however, I also offer online sessions.
01772 503256 View 01772 503256
Photo of Rosie Sharville, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Rosie Sharville
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1
I have expertise in working with identity, gender & sexuality & work with LGBTQ+ communities.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with a warm, down-to-earth and compassionate style of therapy. My practice is relaxed, reflective & sensitive, but with space for connection and creativity. I believe that having a strong therapeutic relationship is crucial to doing good therapy and will work with you to establish a trusting bond. I aim to help you understand your current stressors & emotional strains. We will explore your relationship to yourself, others & the world, work on difficult emotions, outline practical steps & connect with what makes you feel alive. Understanding yourself in this deeper way can allow for resilience & healing.
I have expertise in working with identity, gender & sexuality & work with LGBTQ+ communities.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with a warm, down-to-earth and compassionate style of therapy. My practice is relaxed, reflective & sensitive, but with space for connection and creativity. I believe that having a strong therapeutic relationship is crucial to doing good therapy and will work with you to establish a trusting bond. I aim to help you understand your current stressors & emotional strains. We will explore your relationship to yourself, others & the world, work on difficult emotions, outline practical steps & connect with what makes you feel alive. Understanding yourself in this deeper way can allow for resilience & healing.
020 3667 9631 View 020 3667 9631
Photo of Paul Vigg, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Paul Vigg
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton BN1
I identify as a gay man and part of the queer, LGBTQ+ and GSRD communities.
We're living through a strange and uncertain time. Whether this is your first time in therapy or you're continuing on your journey with self-exploration, know that I am available to support you and that change is possible. In my counselling practice, I believe in the transformative potential within each individual. I offer a safe haven for exploration and creative self-discovery. Whether you're navigating through challenges or seeking personal growth, I will accompany you on your journey. I embrace all aspects of your experience – whether it's distress, confusion, or pain, as well as joy, love, and self-acceptance.
I identify as a gay man and part of the queer, LGBTQ+ and GSRD communities.
We're living through a strange and uncertain time. Whether this is your first time in therapy or you're continuing on your journey with self-exploration, know that I am available to support you and that change is possible. In my counselling practice, I believe in the transformative potential within each individual. I offer a safe haven for exploration and creative self-discovery. Whether you're navigating through challenges or seeking personal growth, I will accompany you on your journey. I embrace all aspects of your experience – whether it's distress, confusion, or pain, as well as joy, love, and self-acceptance.
01273 121192 View 01273 121192
Photo of Theo Scheiner, BACP, Counsellor
Theo Scheiner
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN2
I'm queer and neurodiverse, and have a particular interest in working with LGBTQ+ people.
Hello! I'm an integrative relational psychotherapist working in Central Hove. Years of working in the third sector and the NHS mean I have a wide range of experience supporting people with a variety of common mental health issues. In particular, I'm interested in the unconscious forces that create self-defeating patterns for each of us in our relationships with ourselves and others. I hold a warm and supportive space for you to explore your difficulties, helping you to create more awareness and acceptance around these, so that you can move forward with your life in a direction that feels positive and meaningful.
I'm queer and neurodiverse, and have a particular interest in working with LGBTQ+ people.
Hello! I'm an integrative relational psychotherapist working in Central Hove. Years of working in the third sector and the NHS mean I have a wide range of experience supporting people with a variety of common mental health issues. In particular, I'm interested in the unconscious forces that create self-defeating patterns for each of us in our relationships with ourselves and others. I hold a warm and supportive space for you to explore your difficulties, helping you to create more awareness and acceptance around these, so that you can move forward with your life in a direction that feels positive and meaningful.
01903 251428 View 01903 251428
Photo of Gem Sheinman, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Gem Sheinman
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Brighton BN2  (Online Only)
I am a qualified Psychotherapeutic Counsellor who practises person centred and transactional analysis therapy. I am a LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent identified therapist, and I centre my practise in working with Queer / neurodivergent people to negotiate relationships, lives and family dynamics. I understand that our intersecting identities impact our lived experience, and I work with you to fully understand your identity so that we can best work together towards a fuller, more authentic and enriching life.
I am a qualified Psychotherapeutic Counsellor who practises person centred and transactional analysis therapy. I am a LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent identified therapist, and I centre my practise in working with Queer / neurodivergent people to negotiate relationships, lives and family dynamics. I understand that our intersecting identities impact our lived experience, and I work with you to fully understand your identity so that we can best work together towards a fuller, more authentic and enriching life.
0191 917 4514 View 0191 917 4514
Photo of Rae Yates, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Rae Yates
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brighton BN1
I am a Queer Non-Binary / LGBTQIA+ Person-Centred Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor. I work with people with all kinds of issues, concerns and distress. I work with individual adults (18+) who are gay, bi, queer, trans, non-binary, cis, agender, intersex & sexuality/gender questioning. I also work with people who are neurodivergent, hear voices or have unusual beliefs /experiences, people in non-monogamous or poly relationships, people labelled with PTSD, schizophrenia or a personality disorder.
I am a Queer Non-Binary / LGBTQIA+ Person-Centred Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor. I work with people with all kinds of issues, concerns and distress. I work with individual adults (18+) who are gay, bi, queer, trans, non-binary, cis, agender, intersex & sexuality/gender questioning. I also work with people who are neurodivergent, hear voices or have unusual beliefs /experiences, people in non-monogamous or poly relationships, people labelled with PTSD, schizophrenia or a personality disorder.
020 3879 4147 View 020 3879 4147
Photo of Philip Erritty, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Philip Erritty
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Brighton BN2
I'm an accredited therapist with the BACP who provides psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR & CBT. I work with adults, teens and older age and have particular focus in anxiety/depression, OCD/intrusive thoughts, chronic illness/disability and LGBT+ issues. But maybe you’re experiencing a crisis, loss or bereavement that has come to dominate your life? Whatever the challenge is to your sense of safety, happiness and peace, I provide a containing and open space for you to explore yourself without judgment and to begin to meet the challenges in your life.
I'm an accredited therapist with the BACP who provides psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR & CBT. I work with adults, teens and older age and have particular focus in anxiety/depression, OCD/intrusive thoughts, chronic illness/disability and LGBT+ issues. But maybe you’re experiencing a crisis, loss or bereavement that has come to dominate your life? Whatever the challenge is to your sense of safety, happiness and peace, I provide a containing and open space for you to explore yourself without judgment and to begin to meet the challenges in your life.
01273 092666 View 01273 092666
Photo of Steven Curic - Steven Curic MBACP Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Steven Curic MBACP Psychotherapeutic Counsellor
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1
I am a fully qualified Psychotherapeutic Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor and Accredited/Registered member of BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and Prof/Accred member of NCPS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society). I am also a BUPA Recognised and Fee Assured Mental Health and Well-being Practitioner and registered as a Health Provider with Nuffield Health, Aviva, AXA PPP and Vitality. My work experience includes working with minority, multicultural, neurodiverse and LGBTQ+ clients and the provision of Gender, Sexuality & Relationship Diversity (GSRD) affirmative therapy.
I am a fully qualified Psychotherapeutic Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor and Accredited/Registered member of BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and Prof/Accred member of NCPS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society). I am also a BUPA Recognised and Fee Assured Mental Health and Well-being Practitioner and registered as a Health Provider with Nuffield Health, Aviva, AXA PPP and Vitality. My work experience includes working with minority, multicultural, neurodiverse and LGBTQ+ clients and the provision of Gender, Sexuality & Relationship Diversity (GSRD) affirmative therapy.
020 8129 6867 View 020 8129 6867
Photo of Dave Chambers, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Dave Chambers
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN2  (Online Only)
I have received additional training in working with clients from the Black, Asian and LGBTQ+ communities, and use affirmative practice.
I am a qualified person-centred counsellor and psychotherapist based in Manchester, offering online counselling to individuals and couples in the UK. My approach is warm and friendly and I work with care and compassion. I offer a safe space, free from judgement, where you can be yourself and explore any issues that may be causing confusion, discomfort or distress. You will decide what we talk about and we will always work at a pace that is comfortable for you. It is important that you feel at ease working with me, so I offer a free first session (50 minutes), so you can see how I work and decide whether you wish to continue.
I have received additional training in working with clients from the Black, Asian and LGBTQ+ communities, and use affirmative practice.
I am a qualified person-centred counsellor and psychotherapist based in Manchester, offering online counselling to individuals and couples in the UK. My approach is warm and friendly and I work with care and compassion. I offer a safe space, free from judgement, where you can be yourself and explore any issues that may be causing confusion, discomfort or distress. You will decide what we talk about and we will always work at a pace that is comfortable for you. It is important that you feel at ease working with me, so I offer a free first session (50 minutes), so you can see how I work and decide whether you wish to continue.
01707 244854 View 01707 244854
Photo of Dr Karen Adler, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Dr Karen Adler
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1  (Online Only)
I am very happy to work with clients who identify as LGBTQ+.
Sometimes the challenges that we face can become too much. But where to start when trying to find a therapist? I'm here to help you change so that your sadness or anxiety dwindles and you can live your life more in the ways that feel right deep down. Together we will gently explore what's gone wrong, or dissatisfies you, and begin to mend, so that you can feel more whole. I believe that we can be damaged by the expectations of the world around us as well as by our earliest and most intimate relationships. Do get in touch at karenadlertherapy.com and let's together find the roots and routes to make the changes you desire.
I am very happy to work with clients who identify as LGBTQ+.
Sometimes the challenges that we face can become too much. But where to start when trying to find a therapist? I'm here to help you change so that your sadness or anxiety dwindles and you can live your life more in the ways that feel right deep down. Together we will gently explore what's gone wrong, or dissatisfies you, and begin to mend, so that you can feel more whole. I believe that we can be damaged by the expectations of the world around us as well as by our earliest and most intimate relationships. Do get in touch at karenadlertherapy.com and let's together find the roots and routes to make the changes you desire.
0115 824 3976 View 0115 824 3976
Photo of Darren Good, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Darren Good
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1  (Online Only)
As a gay man, I can understand the impact of being a minority, particularly on self-esteem and relationships, and I have a special interest in supporting other queer men navigating love and sex, in all the diverse and unconventional ways that occur.
What if you accepted every part of yourself, even those you hide from the world? What might be possible? Modern life can be challenging, with its demands, expectations and technology, but self-discovery can lead to learning, growth and a greater sense of ease. I can be your calm companion as you explore the areas of life that need attention, helping you connect with others and feel more belonging. My approach is person-centred and acknowledges how childhood experiences shape our adulthood, so that therapy will partly involve coming to terms with the past and how it affects the present.
As a gay man, I can understand the impact of being a minority, particularly on self-esteem and relationships, and I have a special interest in supporting other queer men navigating love and sex, in all the diverse and unconventional ways that occur.
What if you accepted every part of yourself, even those you hide from the world? What might be possible? Modern life can be challenging, with its demands, expectations and technology, but self-discovery can lead to learning, growth and a greater sense of ease. I can be your calm companion as you explore the areas of life that need attention, helping you connect with others and feel more belonging. My approach is person-centred and acknowledges how childhood experiences shape our adulthood, so that therapy will partly involve coming to terms with the past and how it affects the present.
0161 524 3376 View 0161 524 3376
Photo of Keely Sadler, MBACP, Counsellor
Keely Sadler
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton BN1  (Online Only)
I'm a fully qualified LGBTQIA+ counsellor, working within the queer community, offering a safe, confidential space.
It can be daunting reaching out to find the right therapist for you, with so many to choose from on this site. I can help by offering you a kind, non-judgemental space where we can gently work together through any issues you may be experiencing. I work with both individuals and couples and am able to offer you short and long term therapy. I'm a GSRD (gender, sexual and relationship diversity) therapist and my approach is person-centred, meaning that our sessions are led by you at your pace.
I'm a fully qualified LGBTQIA+ counsellor, working within the queer community, offering a safe, confidential space.
It can be daunting reaching out to find the right therapist for you, with so many to choose from on this site. I can help by offering you a kind, non-judgemental space where we can gently work together through any issues you may be experiencing. I work with both individuals and couples and am able to offer you short and long term therapy. I'm a GSRD (gender, sexual and relationship diversity) therapist and my approach is person-centred, meaning that our sessions are led by you at your pace.
01323 396087 View 01323 396087
Photo of Tanya Levene, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Tanya Levene
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1
Although I work with people from across all parts of society, my speciality is with the LGBTQIA+ community, which includes trans, non-binary, & gender non-conforming people & those adjacent such as partners, friends & families.
Hi I'm Tanya (they/she). I am an experienced integrative Counsellor, Therapist & Supervisor. I work interactively, spiritually & creatively with adults, young people, couples & groups. I'm a warm, open minded person with a good sense of humour. I offer a confidential, respectful, safe space to create an empowering therapeutic relationship where you can explore, question, challenge & break free from self-imposed constraints & beliefs such as fear, lack of self-confidence & anxiety to find the authentic you. I offer short or long term therapy and sessions are 50mins either face 2 face, telephone or online.
Although I work with people from across all parts of society, my speciality is with the LGBTQIA+ community, which includes trans, non-binary, & gender non-conforming people & those adjacent such as partners, friends & families.
Hi I'm Tanya (they/she). I am an experienced integrative Counsellor, Therapist & Supervisor. I work interactively, spiritually & creatively with adults, young people, couples & groups. I'm a warm, open minded person with a good sense of humour. I offer a confidential, respectful, safe space to create an empowering therapeutic relationship where you can explore, question, challenge & break free from self-imposed constraints & beliefs such as fear, lack of self-confidence & anxiety to find the authentic you. I offer short or long term therapy and sessions are 50mins either face 2 face, telephone or online.
01273 092931 View 01273 092931
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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.