LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Hassocks, ENG

Photo of Rhys Lovell, MBACP, Counsellor
Rhys Lovell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hassocks BN6
I am a Member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP), with training in anxiety, depression, grief, bereavement, suicide, and LGBTQIA+ issues, I am dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive and non-judgmental space for all.
Hello and welcome to my profile. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or struggling with the weight of past experiences, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore these challenges at your own pace. Working together, we will strive to uncover the root causes of your concerns, helping you gain clarity, build resilience, and explore strategies for change. My goal is to support you in feeling more empowered, connected, and able to move forward with greater confidence and peace of mind in your everyday life.
I am a Member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP), with training in anxiety, depression, grief, bereavement, suicide, and LGBTQIA+ issues, I am dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive and non-judgmental space for all.
Hello and welcome to my profile. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or struggling with the weight of past experiences, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore these challenges at your own pace. Working together, we will strive to uncover the root causes of your concerns, helping you gain clarity, build resilience, and explore strategies for change. My goal is to support you in feeling more empowered, connected, and able to move forward with greater confidence and peace of mind in your everyday life.
01444 221631 View 01444 221631
Photo of Jade Taaffe, MBACP, Counsellor
Jade Taaffe
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hassocks BN6
I work closely with neurodiverse and LGBTQ+ people.
We all experience suffering, and at times we need support to get through these challenging moments. You may find yourself grappling with confusing or overwhelming emotions, navigating through past trauma, or feeling unfulfilled and trapped. Whatever you're facing, it's important to remember that you don't have face it alone. I'm here to offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space and invite you to exist as your true self, guiding you as you navigate your relationships with others, yourself, and the world around you.
I work closely with neurodiverse and LGBTQ+ people.
We all experience suffering, and at times we need support to get through these challenging moments. You may find yourself grappling with confusing or overwhelming emotions, navigating through past trauma, or feeling unfulfilled and trapped. Whatever you're facing, it's important to remember that you don't have face it alone. I'm here to offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space and invite you to exist as your true self, guiding you as you navigate your relationships with others, yourself, and the world around you.
01273 092616 View 01273 092616
Photo of Petr Eurik Gilar, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Petr Eurik Gilar
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hassocks BN6
I am an experienced psychoanalytic psychotherapist and a BACP-accredited psychodynamic counsellor. I believe that no issue is too small nor too great to bring to therapy – if it causes you pain, you will benefit from opening up about it in the long run. I believe everyone’s internal world needs to be approached with curiosity and openness. My approach is rooted in traditional psychoanalysis but progressive and affirmative of diversity and individual expression. It is suitable for adults of all ages and backgrounds and also LGBTQ/kink and poly-friendly.
I am an experienced psychoanalytic psychotherapist and a BACP-accredited psychodynamic counsellor. I believe that no issue is too small nor too great to bring to therapy – if it causes you pain, you will benefit from opening up about it in the long run. I believe everyone’s internal world needs to be approached with curiosity and openness. My approach is rooted in traditional psychoanalysis but progressive and affirmative of diversity and individual expression. It is suitable for adults of all ages and backgrounds and also LGBTQ/kink and poly-friendly.
01273 099052 View 01273 099052
Photo of Mark Reeves, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Mark Reeves
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hassocks BN6
If there are aspects of your life that you find challenging and you long to break free from some of the restrictive cycles and patterns then I would love to stand alongside you and give you my full presence and support, and together we can create a safe space in which you can find the courage to risk opening to all that is within you. I offer sessions online internationally or face to face in Brighton, UK. Some of the issues I can help you explore are: Self-esteem/confidence, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Bereavement, Relationships, Direction, Meaning & purpose.
If there are aspects of your life that you find challenging and you long to break free from some of the restrictive cycles and patterns then I would love to stand alongside you and give you my full presence and support, and together we can create a safe space in which you can find the courage to risk opening to all that is within you. I offer sessions online internationally or face to face in Brighton, UK. Some of the issues I can help you explore are: Self-esteem/confidence, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Bereavement, Relationships, Direction, Meaning & purpose.
01273 092822 View 01273 092822
Photo of Imogen Gabrielle Ellis-Jones, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Imogen Gabrielle Ellis-Jones
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hassocks BN6
Couples Counselling will help you to understand your emotions and discover a new intimacy. I talk to couples every day who are wanting more from their relationships. Some want to renew a long gone passion and others are just fighting to stay together - the answer is often found by looking at new ways to communicate with each other rather than fixing a disagreement. There will be reasons for your behaviour that make sense and I will help you to uncover these throughout our sessions together. You may have an ‘arguing style’ and by looking more deeply, at your inner hurt and anger, we will be able to discover what is really going on.
Couples Counselling will help you to understand your emotions and discover a new intimacy. I talk to couples every day who are wanting more from their relationships. Some want to renew a long gone passion and others are just fighting to stay together - the answer is often found by looking at new ways to communicate with each other rather than fixing a disagreement. There will be reasons for your behaviour that make sense and I will help you to uncover these throughout our sessions together. You may have an ‘arguing style’ and by looking more deeply, at your inner hurt and anger, we will be able to discover what is really going on.
01252 560748 View 01252 560748

More Therapists Nearby

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 Adam Crowther, MSc, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Adam Crowther
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hove BN3
Sometimes we need help navigating life's challenges, and that’s where I come in. I am a BACP-Accredited therapist with a postgraduate diploma in Humanistic Psychotherapeutic Counselling. I have over ten years of experience in the field of mental health, seven as a counsellor and psychotherapist. Therapy with me is a place to slow down, tell your story, deepen your awareness, and experiment with saying, feeling, and doing what you may have struggled to before. As an LGBTQ+ therapist, respect for difference & diversity is at the heart of my work. Visit my website to read more and book a £30 consultation: www.brighton-therapist.com
Sometimes we need help navigating life's challenges, and that’s where I come in. I am a BACP-Accredited therapist with a postgraduate diploma in Humanistic Psychotherapeutic Counselling. I have over ten years of experience in the field of mental health, seven as a counsellor and psychotherapist. Therapy with me is a place to slow down, tell your story, deepen your awareness, and experiment with saying, feeling, and doing what you may have struggled to before. As an LGBTQ+ therapist, respect for difference & diversity is at the heart of my work. Visit my website to read more and book a £30 consultation: www.brighton-therapist.com
01273 092652 View 01273 092652
Photo of Deirdre MacGinley, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Deirdre MacGinley
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1
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 M Fok, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
M Fok
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton BN1  (Online Only)
I specialise in empathetic and informed counselling for LGBTQ+ couples and individuals, focusing on identity exploration, relationship dynamics, and minority stress.
As a non-binary and gender transitioning specialist counsellor, I understand the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ couples and individuals in the UK. My ideal clients grapple with issues of identity, acceptance, and relationship dynamics. They seek a supportive space to explore their gender and sexual identities, manage minority stress, and strengthen their relationships. They aim to build resilience, enhance self-acceptance, and foster deeper connections with their partners and communities, seeking to feel seen, heard, and validated in a society that often misunderstands them.
I specialise in empathetic and informed counselling for LGBTQ+ couples and individuals, focusing on identity exploration, relationship dynamics, and minority stress.
As a non-binary and gender transitioning specialist counsellor, I understand the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ couples and individuals in the UK. My ideal clients grapple with issues of identity, acceptance, and relationship dynamics. They seek a supportive space to explore their gender and sexual identities, manage minority stress, and strengthen their relationships. They aim to build resilience, enhance self-acceptance, and foster deeper connections with their partners and communities, seeking to feel seen, heard, and validated in a society that often misunderstands them.
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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  (Online Only)
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 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 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 Paul Vigg, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Paul Vigg
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hove BN3
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 place 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 place 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 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 Matthew Jadavji - LGBTQ+ and ADHD Psychotherapy: A New Hope Therapy, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
LGBTQ+ and ADHD Psychotherapy: A New Hope Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brighton BN1  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Matthew (he/him). I offer support for anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues. My specialisation is working with people who are LGBTQ+ and ADHD / Neurodivergent, however, I offer a warm welcome to everyone. Having personally experienced the challenges of living in a heteronormative and neurotypical world, I understand the difficulties of coping with feelings of shame and rejection. I believe these feelings can be overcome and I offer a new hope for living comfortably and authentically.
Hello, I'm Matthew (he/him). I offer support for anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues. My specialisation is working with people who are LGBTQ+ and ADHD / Neurodivergent, however, I offer a warm welcome to everyone. Having personally experienced the challenges of living in a heteronormative and neurotypical world, I understand the difficulties of coping with feelings of shame and rejection. I believe these feelings can be overcome and I offer a new hope for living comfortably and authentically.
020 3823 6649 View 020 3823 6649
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 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 Theo Scheiner, BACP, Counsellor
Theo Scheiner
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Hove BN3
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 Dana Cohen, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Dana Cohen
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN2  (Online Only)
I am an LGBTQ counsellor and psychotherapist, with twenty years experience in LGBTQ therapy, advocacy and support services. I offer online therapy to LGBTQ people 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. It can make a huge difference to find an LGBTQ affirmative therapist who welcomes you wholeheartedly, with warmth and understanding. When we experience unconditional acceptance and care we can relax and open, finding our joy and freedom.
I am an LGBTQ counsellor and psychotherapist, with twenty years experience in LGBTQ therapy, advocacy and support services. I offer online therapy to LGBTQ people 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. It can make a huge difference to find an LGBTQ affirmative therapist who welcomes you wholeheartedly, with warmth and understanding. When we experience unconditional acceptance and care we can relax and open, finding our joy and freedom.
01273 036050 View 01273 036050
Photo of James William Deaville, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
James William Deaville
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
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

See more therapy options for Hassocks

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.