LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Cambridge, ENG

Photo of Deirdre MacGinley, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Deirdre MacGinley
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB3  (Online Only)
I have over 40 years’ life experience of being a member of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as working with heterosexual people in different capacities.
Do you feel frightened that your world might fall apart if you look at your sexuality or gender? Maybe you have thoughts going round and round in your head, and feel like you’ve lost track of perspective. Maybe you: don't like sex/like sex 'too much' /wrong kind of sex? Your gender doesn't fit with other people's idea of you. You may feel you are betraying your family, children or culture by expressing yourself. You may believe that what’s inside you is too shocking, or wrong or too much for the people around you. You may feel like there’s no-one you can talk to, which can be very isolating.
I have over 40 years’ life experience of being a member of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as working with heterosexual people in different capacities.
Do you feel frightened that your world might fall apart if you look at your sexuality or gender? Maybe you have thoughts going round and round in your head, and feel like you’ve lost track of perspective. Maybe you: don't like sex/like sex 'too much' /wrong kind of sex? Your gender doesn't fit with other people's idea of you. You may feel you are betraying your family, children or culture by expressing yourself. You may believe that what’s inside you is too shocking, or wrong or too much for the people around you. You may feel like there’s no-one you can talk to, which can be very isolating.
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Photo of Navdeep Kaur - Nav Therapy LGBTQ+  and BAME Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Nav Therapy LGBTQ+ and BAME Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cambridge CB1
Hi, My name is Nav (she/her) and I am a therapist who works with people who are anxious, depressed and often struggling with identity and self esteem. Grief and loss are themes that often emerge, as I help you examine the shame you may have felt your whole life. My clients are predominantly from the LGBTQ+ community and are often BAME also. I have over time developed a specialism for helping those with layered intersectionality and the challenges this brings when navigating the world, which can be a lonely and difficult place. We can work together and help you to establish better relationships and a clearer sense of self.
Hi, My name is Nav (she/her) and I am a therapist who works with people who are anxious, depressed and often struggling with identity and self esteem. Grief and loss are themes that often emerge, as I help you examine the shame you may have felt your whole life. My clients are predominantly from the LGBTQ+ community and are often BAME also. I have over time developed a specialism for helping those with layered intersectionality and the challenges this brings when navigating the world, which can be a lonely and difficult place. We can work together and help you to establish better relationships and a clearer sense of self.
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Photo of Laura Steele, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Laura Steele
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1  (Online Only)
I offer contemporary (LGBTQIA+ affirmative, feminist, trauma-informed, heart-centred) Person-Centred Therapy.
Are things in your life feeling overwhelming? Perhaps you have a niggling sense of unease that you can’t ignore. Maybe you are feeling the weight of an old wound, or looking to find your way through a fresh one. Depression, feeling sad, anxiety, stress, grief, bereavement, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, spirituality, gender or sexual identity, including LGBTQIA+ experiences, are just a few of the reasons that you might be seeking psychotherapy. Whatever you are feeling, you are not alone, and whatever journey you have taken to get here, you are welcome.
I offer contemporary (LGBTQIA+ affirmative, feminist, trauma-informed, heart-centred) Person-Centred Therapy.
Are things in your life feeling overwhelming? Perhaps you have a niggling sense of unease that you can’t ignore. Maybe you are feeling the weight of an old wound, or looking to find your way through a fresh one. Depression, feeling sad, anxiety, stress, grief, bereavement, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, spirituality, gender or sexual identity, including LGBTQIA+ experiences, are just a few of the reasons that you might be seeking psychotherapy. Whatever you are feeling, you are not alone, and whatever journey you have taken to get here, you are welcome.
0117 463 0552 View 0117 463 0552
Photo of Zoe Powell Martin, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Zoe Powell Martin
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I'm Zoe - it's a pleasure to meet you. I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy. I provide a warm, safe and nurturing space to support you on your therapeutic journey. As a therapist, I am committed to ensure that your therapy sessions are co-constructed to meet your individual therapeutic needs. Benefitting from shared-decision making, a focus on therapeutic direction as well as empathy, support, compassion and attention, you can expect a uniquely inclusive and collaborative therapeutic experience.
Hello, I'm Zoe - it's a pleasure to meet you. I am an experienced LGBTQ+ and University counsellor currently offering online counselling and psychotherapy. I provide a warm, safe and nurturing space to support you on your therapeutic journey. As a therapist, I am committed to ensure that your therapy sessions are co-constructed to meet your individual therapeutic needs. Benefitting from shared-decision making, a focus on therapeutic direction as well as empathy, support, compassion and attention, you can expect a uniquely inclusive and collaborative therapeutic experience.
01363 722166 View 01363 722166
Photo of Claudia Kent, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Claudia Kent
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge CB1  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Claudia (she/her), a dedicated Bristol based psychotherapist with a passion for justice and equality. I aim to create a safe and affirming space for individuals of diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, those exploring kink or polyamory, and anyone navigating questions of gender, sexuality, or identity. I approach therapy with gentleness and a genuine curiosity about the vast spectrum of human experiences. I am here to support you as you journey through your unique story, at your own pace. When you feel stuck or uncertain, I use active, compassionate listening to guide you forward.
Hello, I'm Claudia (she/her), a dedicated Bristol based psychotherapist with a passion for justice and equality. I aim to create a safe and affirming space for individuals of diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, those exploring kink or polyamory, and anyone navigating questions of gender, sexuality, or identity. I approach therapy with gentleness and a genuine curiosity about the vast spectrum of human experiences. I am here to support you as you journey through your unique story, at your own pace. When you feel stuck or uncertain, I use active, compassionate listening to guide you forward.
01273 092301 View 01273 092301
Photo of Bryony Vickers, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Bryony Vickers
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1
All my work is undertaken from a LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming position.
I provide a supportive and non judgemental space to explore any issues that are troubling you. ​Having space to to talk things through with an experienced and compassionate professional can be an important part of working though life issues that feel stuck, confusing or painful. ​
All my work is undertaken from a LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming position.
I provide a supportive and non judgemental space to explore any issues that are troubling you. ​Having space to to talk things through with an experienced and compassionate professional can be an important part of working though life issues that feel stuck, confusing or painful. ​
01223 658657 View 01223 658657
Photo of Rachael Collier, BPC, Psychotherapist
Rachael Collier
Psychotherapist, BPC
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1
I also have specialist knowledge and training on issues that affect the LGBTQIA+ community.
We all deserve to have a life that we feel secure in and a future that we can look forward to. But in reality there are times when this simply isn't the case. And so we seek therapy. It might be for help with overwhelming feelings of anxiety and depression. Or a little nagging voice at the back of the mind that says that now is the right time to talk to someone.  Or something quite clear and traumatic has happened. Therapy is somewhere you can come to talk, confidentially, about whatever it is that is affecting you.
I also have specialist knowledge and training on issues that affect the LGBTQIA+ community.
We all deserve to have a life that we feel secure in and a future that we can look forward to. But in reality there are times when this simply isn't the case. And so we seek therapy. It might be for help with overwhelming feelings of anxiety and depression. Or a little nagging voice at the back of the mind that says that now is the right time to talk to someone.  Or something quite clear and traumatic has happened. Therapy is somewhere you can come to talk, confidentially, about whatever it is that is affecting you.
01284 331071 View 01284 331071
Photo of Ruth Parchment, MA, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Ruth Parchment
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1  (Online Only)
As a BABCP accredited CBT Therapist I have worked in various NHS and private settings: Anxiety, Depression, Panic, OCD, PTSD, Trauma, Perfectionism, Worry and Low Self Esteem are difficulties I regularly work with. Cultural sensitivity and diversity is important, including: Physical Health, LGBTQIA+, Ethnicity, Religion & other differences. I work with adults, young people and facilitate CBT groups (recently for social anxiety and also substance misuse). I'm open-minded, friendly, warm and approachable. I will help you learn useful strategies, tools and techniques; alongside providing space to process & understand yourself better
As a BABCP accredited CBT Therapist I have worked in various NHS and private settings: Anxiety, Depression, Panic, OCD, PTSD, Trauma, Perfectionism, Worry and Low Self Esteem are difficulties I regularly work with. Cultural sensitivity and diversity is important, including: Physical Health, LGBTQIA+, Ethnicity, Religion & other differences. I work with adults, young people and facilitate CBT groups (recently for social anxiety and also substance misuse). I'm open-minded, friendly, warm and approachable. I will help you learn useful strategies, tools and techniques; alongside providing space to process & understand yourself better
01223 941616 View 01223 941616
Photo of Bima Loxley - Loxley Sexology, COSRT General, Psychotherapist
Loxley Sexology
Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge CB1  (Online Only)
I am a queer nonbinary sex and relationship therapist who provides therapy for couples, multiple partnered relationships (ie non monogamy, colleagues, friends, families) and individuals online only. As a Clinical Sexologist and Relationship Therapist I can help you with three sectors: Sex: desire & arousal, sexuality, sexual health, sexual function & pain, low-esteem. Relationships: intimacy, conflict management, infidelity, life changes, family issues. Gender & sexual identity: LGBTQIA+, Kink, gender dysphoria, sex work, diverse relationship styles (nonmonogamy etc). When I reply to your email, please check your junk/spam too!
I am a queer nonbinary sex and relationship therapist who provides therapy for couples, multiple partnered relationships (ie non monogamy, colleagues, friends, families) and individuals online only. As a Clinical Sexologist and Relationship Therapist I can help you with three sectors: Sex: desire & arousal, sexuality, sexual health, sexual function & pain, low-esteem. Relationships: intimacy, conflict management, infidelity, life changes, family issues. Gender & sexual identity: LGBTQIA+, Kink, gender dysphoria, sex work, diverse relationship styles (nonmonogamy etc). When I reply to your email, please check your junk/spam too!
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Photo of Estelle Harrison, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Estelle Harrison
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB23  (Online Only)
I support & welcome enquiries from LGB individuals along with trans-identifying, gender non-conforming people and those choosing to de-transition.
If you're feeling sad, struggling with anxiety, depression or other mental health issues; if you're experiencing stress, burnout or battling adversity; if you're dealing with complex or difficult relationships, grieving or managing change/loss in your life, or if you are simply looking to improve your self-awareness and develop healthier coping strategies - counselling can be a useful way to help you understand yourself better so you can live life more confidently and enjoy greater personal fulfilment. My aim to is put you and ease so you feel comfortable exploring the things that matter to you.
I support & welcome enquiries from LGB individuals along with trans-identifying, gender non-conforming people and those choosing to de-transition.
If you're feeling sad, struggling with anxiety, depression or other mental health issues; if you're experiencing stress, burnout or battling adversity; if you're dealing with complex or difficult relationships, grieving or managing change/loss in your life, or if you are simply looking to improve your self-awareness and develop healthier coping strategies - counselling can be a useful way to help you understand yourself better so you can live life more confidently and enjoy greater personal fulfilment. My aim to is put you and ease so you feel comfortable exploring the things that matter to you.
01942 925493 View 01942 925493
Photo of Becky Grace Irwing - Becky Grace Therapy, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Becky Grace Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cambridge CB1
I have ADHD and I am bisexual.
Could you imagine a life without thinking constantly of food? A life not overtaken by anxiety and people or parts of society that make you feel uncomfortable, a burden or lead you to not trust yourself? Are you living a life that does not give you joy and pleasure, or you feel out of control? Then I am here to help. Whether you have an issue with eating -avoiding, bingeing or control, anxiety, OCD, low mood or trauma, I will help you address the root cause and collaborate with you to improve how you act and feel. We will use accredited cognitive behavioural therapy, EMDR, breathwork and yoga in person or online at a time that suits
I have ADHD and I am bisexual.
Could you imagine a life without thinking constantly of food? A life not overtaken by anxiety and people or parts of society that make you feel uncomfortable, a burden or lead you to not trust yourself? Are you living a life that does not give you joy and pleasure, or you feel out of control? Then I am here to help. Whether you have an issue with eating -avoiding, bingeing or control, anxiety, OCD, low mood or trauma, I will help you address the root cause and collaborate with you to improve how you act and feel. We will use accredited cognitive behavioural therapy, EMDR, breathwork and yoga in person or online at a time that suits
01603 361424 View 01603 361424
Photo of Rachel Hunter - Rachel Hunter Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Rachel Hunter Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1
Professional Couples and Individual Zoom counselling from the comfort of your own home. No travel time, no parking. Establishing a good counselling relationship is vital so that feelings can be explored in a safe, confidential space. I won’t judge you and will listen to your own unique story with empathy and kindness. I will endeavour to help you process pain from the past and present and reinforce your resilience and hope for the future. The longer-term aim is to help you to move forward towards your personal goals. I work with women, men, non-binary people and couples. LGBTQIA + and all clients warmly welcomed.
Professional Couples and Individual Zoom counselling from the comfort of your own home. No travel time, no parking. Establishing a good counselling relationship is vital so that feelings can be explored in a safe, confidential space. I won’t judge you and will listen to your own unique story with empathy and kindness. I will endeavour to help you process pain from the past and present and reinforce your resilience and hope for the future. The longer-term aim is to help you to move forward towards your personal goals. I work with women, men, non-binary people and couples. LGBTQIA + and all clients warmly welcomed.
01242 395316 View 01242 395316
Photo of Carla Patino, MBACP, Counsellor
Carla Patino
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge CB1  (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with issues such as, attachment issues, postnatal depression, relationship issues, betrayal and heartbreak, low selfworth, anger, new motherhood, shame, complicated childhood, narcissistic abuse, work related difficulties, loss and change, anxiety, body image issues, LGBTQ+ issues, jealousy and trauma bonding.
Hello, my name is Carla. I am a psychotherapeutic Counsellor and member of the BACP. I work in an open, warm and non-judgmental way. I believe my job is not to tell you what to do, but to create a safe space for you to feel heard. Drawing on different therapeutic approaches, I aim to support you in gaining deeper awareness of behaviour patterns and difficult feelings. Therapy is an opportunity to reconnect with your authentic self and to develop a better relationship with yourself and others. My hourly rate is £45. I offer discounted sessions of £35 to teachers, students, military families, NHS staff and new parents (kids under 3).
I am experienced in working with issues such as, attachment issues, postnatal depression, relationship issues, betrayal and heartbreak, low selfworth, anger, new motherhood, shame, complicated childhood, narcissistic abuse, work related difficulties, loss and change, anxiety, body image issues, LGBTQ+ issues, jealousy and trauma bonding.
Hello, my name is Carla. I am a psychotherapeutic Counsellor and member of the BACP. I work in an open, warm and non-judgmental way. I believe my job is not to tell you what to do, but to create a safe space for you to feel heard. Drawing on different therapeutic approaches, I aim to support you in gaining deeper awareness of behaviour patterns and difficult feelings. Therapy is an opportunity to reconnect with your authentic self and to develop a better relationship with yourself and others. My hourly rate is £45. I offer discounted sessions of £35 to teachers, students, military families, NHS staff and new parents (kids under 3).
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Photo of Shaheen Walker - Counsellor - Relationship And Psychosexual Specialist, MBACP, Counsellor
Shaheen Walker - Counsellor - Relationship And Psychosexual Specialist
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1
I also work at Relate as a Specialist, partner with Tavistock using Mentalization Based Therapy helping together and single parents in conflict achieve better communication, trained with CICS and completed the LGBTQ+ Externship.
Hi - are you feeling stuck? Repeating the same patterns of behaviour again and again in your life or relationship and going around in circles? Do you feel a lack of love/respect with your partner or someone close to you? Is sex/intimacy or compulsive sexual behaviour an issue? Perhaps trauma, life changes, neurodiversity (adhd/asc) or difficult times have led to anxiety/depression, the trust has gone, or you're feeling sad, stressed lonely, angry, numb, or just not sure what you feel anymore? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space helping individuals, couples and enm relationships to create confidence, change and improve wellbeing.
I also work at Relate as a Specialist, partner with Tavistock using Mentalization Based Therapy helping together and single parents in conflict achieve better communication, trained with CICS and completed the LGBTQ+ Externship.
Hi - are you feeling stuck? Repeating the same patterns of behaviour again and again in your life or relationship and going around in circles? Do you feel a lack of love/respect with your partner or someone close to you? Is sex/intimacy or compulsive sexual behaviour an issue? Perhaps trauma, life changes, neurodiversity (adhd/asc) or difficult times have led to anxiety/depression, the trust has gone, or you're feeling sad, stressed lonely, angry, numb, or just not sure what you feel anymore? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space helping individuals, couples and enm relationships to create confidence, change and improve wellbeing.
01895 545137 View 01895 545137
Photo of Faye McDonell, MA, Psychotherapist
Faye McDonell
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge CB23
I am an experienced therapist and have worked in the NHS for 10 years, initially qualifying as an Occupational Therapist and more recently as a family and systemic psychotherapy enabling me to offer a broader psychotherapeutic service to individuals, couples or families who might be seeking a safe space to explore particular themes or dilemmas they are facing. I have experience working across the life span and have specialised in working with children and families over the past 5 years. Prior to this I worked with adults with complex trauma. I offer an inclusive space which is sensitive to your needs.
I am an experienced therapist and have worked in the NHS for 10 years, initially qualifying as an Occupational Therapist and more recently as a family and systemic psychotherapy enabling me to offer a broader psychotherapeutic service to individuals, couples or families who might be seeking a safe space to explore particular themes or dilemmas they are facing. I have experience working across the life span and have specialised in working with children and families over the past 5 years. Prior to this I worked with adults with complex trauma. I offer an inclusive space which is sensitive to your needs.
01954 774604 View 01954 774604
Photo of Han Bestwick, MSc, BACP, Counsellor
Han Bestwick
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge CB1  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Han and I use she/they pronouns. I welcome anyone to my therapy room who wants a safe space to talk things through. I have supported people to explore their identities, navigate coming out, and to get to know who they are. I have worked with people who are already out and those who have yet to find the language to name their experience. You may be someone who already knows who you are but are experiencing some other difficulties in your life. If this is you, it can be helpful to have a therapist who already accepts your identity so that you can you can explore these other topics without having to explain it.
Hello, my name is Han and I use she/they pronouns. I welcome anyone to my therapy room who wants a safe space to talk things through. I have supported people to explore their identities, navigate coming out, and to get to know who they are. I have worked with people who are already out and those who have yet to find the language to name their experience. You may be someone who already knows who you are but are experiencing some other difficulties in your life. If this is you, it can be helpful to have a therapist who already accepts your identity so that you can you can explore these other topics without having to explain it.
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Photo of Sophie Winter, BACP, Psychotherapist
Sophie Winter
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB2  (Online Only)
I believe all parts of you, including parts that might cause difficulties for yourself or for others, are worthy of compassion, understanding, safety and fulfilment. I think of therapy as a space for you to feel heard, make sense of your past experiences, and build self-compassion, self-knowledge, and the skills needed to live in greater alignment with your needs and desires. Together we can work to connect with different parts of you, listen to their stories, understand why they behave the way they do, and help you to gain clarity and make life-affirming choices in the present.
I believe all parts of you, including parts that might cause difficulties for yourself or for others, are worthy of compassion, understanding, safety and fulfilment. I think of therapy as a space for you to feel heard, make sense of your past experiences, and build self-compassion, self-knowledge, and the skills needed to live in greater alignment with your needs and desires. Together we can work to connect with different parts of you, listen to their stories, understand why they behave the way they do, and help you to gain clarity and make life-affirming choices in the present.
01492 558996 View 01492 558996
Photo of Reanne Farrer, MBACP, Counsellor
Reanne Farrer
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB3
Are you feeling scared, lonely, confused, anxious, sad or depressed? Do you feel you have nobody to talk to? No matter what your fears or concerns are I can provide a safe and welcoming environment, free of judgement, to explore your thoughts and feelings. Contact me on 07564022180 or email at reannecounselling@gmail.com
Are you feeling scared, lonely, confused, anxious, sad or depressed? Do you feel you have nobody to talk to? No matter what your fears or concerns are I can provide a safe and welcoming environment, free of judgement, to explore your thoughts and feelings. Contact me on 07564022180 or email at reannecounselling@gmail.com
07564 022180 View 07564 022180
Photo of Carrie (Cat) Thompson, MBACP, Counsellor
Carrie (Cat) Thompson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1
Hello, my name is Cat. I offer person-centered counselling in-person at a central Peterborough location (PE1) or if preferred remotely online or via telephone. The work we do will vary according to your needs. Within my counselling practice, I offer a non-judgmental, affirming and person-centered approach that welcomes individuals of all ages, genders, sexualities, races, and backgrounds. I am committed to providing compassionate trauma-informed care.
Hello, my name is Cat. I offer person-centered counselling in-person at a central Peterborough location (PE1) or if preferred remotely online or via telephone. The work we do will vary according to your needs. Within my counselling practice, I offer a non-judgmental, affirming and person-centered approach that welcomes individuals of all ages, genders, sexualities, races, and backgrounds. I am committed to providing compassionate trauma-informed care.
01733 964065 View 01733 964065
Photo of Kirstin Bicknell, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Kirstin Bicknell
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB23
I'm an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist offering therapy that's right for you. I provide a supportive, confidential service for individuals and couples to explore and work through issues you are facing. As an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist there are a number of elements that therapy may include. The ones we use will depend on what you want to work on and your preferences. This can involve exploring how you're feeling, why you're feeling that way and how you can manage challenging feelings or relationships or working with childhood trauma as well as specific strategies including EMDR for PTSD.
I'm an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist offering therapy that's right for you. I provide a supportive, confidential service for individuals and couples to explore and work through issues you are facing. As an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist there are a number of elements that therapy may include. The ones we use will depend on what you want to work on and your preferences. This can involve exploring how you're feeling, why you're feeling that way and how you can manage challenging feelings or relationships or working with childhood trauma as well as specific strategies including EMDR for PTSD.
01223 656854 View 01223 656854
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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.