LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Oxford, ENG
![Photo of Mark Ellis, MA, BACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/341851e5-01c8-4b08-a496-d6af44d66483/7/320x400.jpeg)
While my work encompasses a wide array of issues, such as trauma, anxiety and depression, I have a particular interest in relationships, sex, sexuality and gender. I work with adults and teenagers, in my office in East Oxford and online. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming. I welcome people of all gender identities, relationship structures, sexual practices and orientations. I strive to be anti-racist and see this as life-long work. Whatever you may be experiencing, I am here to guide you through my therapeutic process, drawing on evidence-based techniques, together with deep empathy and careful attention to detail.
While my work encompasses a wide array of issues, such as trauma, anxiety and depression, I have a particular interest in relationships, sex, sexuality and gender. I work with adults and teenagers, in my office in East Oxford and online. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming. I welcome people of all gender identities, relationship structures, sexual practices and orientations. I strive to be anti-racist and see this as life-long work. Whatever you may be experiencing, I am here to guide you through my therapeutic process, drawing on evidence-based techniques, together with deep empathy and careful attention to detail.
![Photo of Navdeep Kaur - Nav Therapy LGBTQ+ and BAME Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c4a196c-3d01-4428-a28d-c491402c9037/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nav Therapy LGBTQ+ and BAME Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oxford OX1
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.
![Photo of Laura Steele, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a159375f-8651-489e-a012-5a082bbc7b18/4/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr Sarah Enderby, PhD, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4de458f-f8c9-4da3-a309-1ceb837a2b78/1/320x400.jpeg)
You may be coming to counselling because you are in crisis, unable to see a way through a situation or feeling lost or alone. You might be seeking the 'right' answer around a difficult life decision. It may have taken many years to find the courage to seek help for issues which run deep, perhaps stemming from difficult, early experiences in childhood or from trauma. I specialise in working with self esteem and anxiety, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ folks, however, everybody is welcome.
You may be coming to counselling because you are in crisis, unable to see a way through a situation or feeling lost or alone. You might be seeking the 'right' answer around a difficult life decision. It may have taken many years to find the courage to seek help for issues which run deep, perhaps stemming from difficult, early experiences in childhood or from trauma. I specialise in working with self esteem and anxiety, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ folks, however, everybody is welcome.
![Photo of Claudia Kent, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f1ff88c-bd93-4198-b84f-78f1442d37b9/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Matthew Jadavji - LGBTQ+ and ADHD Psychotherapy: A New Hope Therapy, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ce2fdda-60e5-441f-ada7-88d86daf88d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
LGBTQ+ and ADHD Psychotherapy: A New Hope Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oxford OX1 (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 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 offer a new hope for living comfortably and authentically.
![Photo of Bea Zanichelli-Sonego, MA, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf5d3645-9e32-408f-9f13-c16d3fa02e06/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist.
Here you are, considering whether you should talk to someone. Right now you may be feeling confused, tired, just wanting to make sense of your situation - I get it, and hope you will find the information provided here helpful. I am an experienced licensed and fully-insured Clinical Psychologist and Psychodynamic Counsellor, with 15 years of practice. I have worked in a variety of settings - higher education, community, healthcare and independently, both in the UK and in South America. My approach is based on the psychodynamic model (my primary influence), as well as existential-phenomenology and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT).
I am a LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist.
Here you are, considering whether you should talk to someone. Right now you may be feeling confused, tired, just wanting to make sense of your situation - I get it, and hope you will find the information provided here helpful. I am an experienced licensed and fully-insured Clinical Psychologist and Psychodynamic Counsellor, with 15 years of practice. I have worked in a variety of settings - higher education, community, healthcare and independently, both in the UK and in South America. My approach is based on the psychodynamic model (my primary influence), as well as existential-phenomenology and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT).
![Photo of John-Henry Carter, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d01e4e0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
John-Henry works with the LGBTQ community, adults and teens.
John-Henry graduated with distinction from Oxford University with an MSt in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. He is currently completing doctoral research at Oxford University on the psychoanalysis of dreams. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, John-Henry played professional rugby in several successful teams, winning the Guinness Premiership, European Cup and Varsity matches as Captain at Oxford University. He works privately in Oxford and in a clinic on Harley Street in London. He also offers online sessions, which can be combined with face to face meetings at your convenience.
John-Henry works with the LGBTQ community, adults and teens.
John-Henry graduated with distinction from Oxford University with an MSt in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. He is currently completing doctoral research at Oxford University on the psychoanalysis of dreams. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, John-Henry played professional rugby in several successful teams, winning the Guinness Premiership, European Cup and Varsity matches as Captain at Oxford University. He works privately in Oxford and in a clinic on Harley Street in London. He also offers online sessions, which can be combined with face to face meetings at your convenience.
![Photo of Kate Montagu, MA, UKCP Trainee, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4bd525d-6a94-4b99-b173-8e6e7202a531/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a particular interest in neurodivergence, LGBTQIA+, relationship issues and.
My ideal client is someone who is genuinely committed to looking inwards, keen to look at themselves and how they relate to the world around them. The therapy I am offering is ideal for those seeking an engaged therapeutic relationship with collaborative exploration rather than a one-side dialogue from the client. In fostering a warm and professional environment, my aim is to guide clients through a transformative journey of self-discovery and interpersonal understanding, ultimately empowering them to navigate life with greater insight and resilience.
I have a particular interest in neurodivergence, LGBTQIA+, relationship issues and.
My ideal client is someone who is genuinely committed to looking inwards, keen to look at themselves and how they relate to the world around them. The therapy I am offering is ideal for those seeking an engaged therapeutic relationship with collaborative exploration rather than a one-side dialogue from the client. In fostering a warm and professional environment, my aim is to guide clients through a transformative journey of self-discovery and interpersonal understanding, ultimately empowering them to navigate life with greater insight and resilience.
![Photo of Sian Renwick, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6f5e5e7-c9bc-4265-b5d2-fea035a795f3/2/320x400.jpeg)
With climate change, systemic social and financial inequality, polarised political debate, the cost-of-living crisis, and more going on around us, life in the 21st century can be complex and challenging. For those of us who are neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, disabled, racialised, or otherwise marginalized, things can be even tougher. Against this backdrop, prioritising your own well-being through counselling is a radical act which can help you develop self-compassion, address short- or long-term issues, and live authentically.
With climate change, systemic social and financial inequality, polarised political debate, the cost-of-living crisis, and more going on around us, life in the 21st century can be complex and challenging. For those of us who are neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, disabled, racialised, or otherwise marginalized, things can be even tougher. Against this backdrop, prioritising your own well-being through counselling is a radical act which can help you develop self-compassion, address short- or long-term issues, and live authentically.
![Photo of Sara Gamba, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e51efff6-e3ee-4d30-a80b-c9530b1e0f6c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults, couples and young people, and with those experiencing a range of various difficulties including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem, identity issues and grief. I also have experience working with survivors of trauma and sexual abuse, and the distressing ongoing effects this can have on everyday life. I also work with LGBTQ+ and GSRD (gender, sexuality and relationship diverse) individual and people who are questioning their gender identity, sexual orientation or relationship styles.
I work with adults, couples and young people, and with those experiencing a range of various difficulties including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem, identity issues and grief. I also have experience working with survivors of trauma and sexual abuse, and the distressing ongoing effects this can have on everyday life. I also work with LGBTQ+ and GSRD (gender, sexuality and relationship diverse) individual and people who are questioning their gender identity, sexual orientation or relationship styles.
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![Photo of Rachel Hunter - Rachel Hunter Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1463a18-2dee-4bc3-9073-fd3bd26d270e/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Samantha Marcham - Samantha Marcham, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10ab7f5e-9c6b-4804-9370-5b59f0a605d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello I am Sam (MBACP). I see Couples, Individuals, and Young People (age 11+). I specialise in Relationships, Psychosexual Issues, and LGBTQIA+. Therapy can be either Face-to-Face, Online, or by Telephone.
Hello I am Sam (MBACP). I see Couples, Individuals, and Young People (age 11+). I specialise in Relationships, Psychosexual Issues, and LGBTQIA+. Therapy can be either Face-to-Face, Online, or by Telephone.
![Photo of Charlotte Rose, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3099dc35-72dd-4407-9c37-4ae45bcdb285/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a feminist; anti-racist; queer-affirmative therapist, I offer a non-pathologising approach.
Sometimes life is hard - and we can easily get trapped in trying to feel in control while at the same time losing contact with what's important. Therapy can provide an opportunity to carefully think things through when your attempts to get by are tiring you out and no longer working. Therapy is about teamwork: we both listen out for patterns or themes; try to understand where problems might have come from; and get a sense of your personal and social sources of stress and strength. We can also consider what meaningful change might look like, and I can support you to plan and work towards this in a safe and manageable way.
As a feminist; anti-racist; queer-affirmative therapist, I offer a non-pathologising approach.
Sometimes life is hard - and we can easily get trapped in trying to feel in control while at the same time losing contact with what's important. Therapy can provide an opportunity to carefully think things through when your attempts to get by are tiring you out and no longer working. Therapy is about teamwork: we both listen out for patterns or themes; try to understand where problems might have come from; and get a sense of your personal and social sources of stress and strength. We can also consider what meaningful change might look like, and I can support you to plan and work towards this in a safe and manageable way.
![Photo of Lina Helena Milner, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97451e58-5308-4a7b-b661-00e7673c2f71/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with couples and individuals (heterosexual, LGBTQ+) in short and long-term therapy from my online private practice (Mondays-Thursdays) and face-to-face therapy rooms in Central London (Saturdays).
My specialism is relationship and sex therapy for couples and individuals. Every relationship has a challenge, but if you feel that the problem has persisted for too long and caused a lot of distress for you, do contact me and we can have a conversation about the type of counselling that will suit your needs. I also work with individuals who and trying get over break up or have difficulties in forming or ending relationships. I offer an empathetic, safe, and professional environment within which we can work together to facilitate the potential for change in the relationship and work towards sexual health, happiness and well-being.
I work with couples and individuals (heterosexual, LGBTQ+) in short and long-term therapy from my online private practice (Mondays-Thursdays) and face-to-face therapy rooms in Central London (Saturdays).
My specialism is relationship and sex therapy for couples and individuals. Every relationship has a challenge, but if you feel that the problem has persisted for too long and caused a lot of distress for you, do contact me and we can have a conversation about the type of counselling that will suit your needs. I also work with individuals who and trying get over break up or have difficulties in forming or ending relationships. I offer an empathetic, safe, and professional environment within which we can work together to facilitate the potential for change in the relationship and work towards sexual health, happiness and well-being.
![Photo of Caterina Fadda - Caterina Fadda - Psychotherapy - EMDR, MA, BPC, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e189604-7b0a-437a-979f-a764a875447d/2/320x400.png)
Caterina Fadda - Psychotherapy - EMDR
Psychotherapist, MA, BPC
Verified Verified
Oxford OX1 (Online Only)
Hi, I am a qualified and Accredited Psychotherapist and Accredited EMDR Practitioner. I offer online sessions in English or Italian to clients based internationally. For over 10 years, I have been working in the NHS, educational settings, and in private practice helping children, young people and adults recover from emotional difficulties such as Attachment issues, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD and the impact of Trauma/Developmental Trauma. I have experience in working with neurodivergent people, I am culturally sensitive and have been supporting individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+.
Hi, I am a qualified and Accredited Psychotherapist and Accredited EMDR Practitioner. I offer online sessions in English or Italian to clients based internationally. For over 10 years, I have been working in the NHS, educational settings, and in private practice helping children, young people and adults recover from emotional difficulties such as Attachment issues, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD and the impact of Trauma/Developmental Trauma. I have experience in working with neurodivergent people, I am culturally sensitive and have been supporting individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+.
![Photo of Shaheen Walker - Counsellor - Relationship And Psychosexual Specialist, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2dbf2ba1-9aee-47eb-8f4f-0c93d3de5ef6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shaheen Walker - Counsellor - Relationship And Psychosexual Specialist
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX1
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.
![Photo of Marianne Dorothee Broeker, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e36b2685-cc5b-4c6f-b9b2-48274c3e363c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide focused therapy that will help you to see your patterns and emotions as well as moral and ethical challenges arising from interpersonal and social contexts better, to then allow you to change them. Obstacles to change are very subtle, often almost invisible. Self-awareness can redirect your energies to creating more positive states of mind. We will work on how ethical and moral dilemmas arise between people, how this interacts with different life experiences that impact your personality and how that then affects your psychological well being.
I provide focused therapy that will help you to see your patterns and emotions as well as moral and ethical challenges arising from interpersonal and social contexts better, to then allow you to change them. Obstacles to change are very subtle, often almost invisible. Self-awareness can redirect your energies to creating more positive states of mind. We will work on how ethical and moral dilemmas arise between people, how this interacts with different life experiences that impact your personality and how that then affects your psychological well being.
![Photo of Helaina Ashcroft - Helaina Clinical Sexology, COSRT Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe494aa8-3aef-4b42-b0b1-b7f4e6e81a59/1/320x400.jpeg)
My service is provided as a specialist sex and relationship therapist. I aim to provide a safe environment in which clients can share their intimate thoughts and problems with no fear of judgement. I honour all sexual orientations, gender identities and sexual preferences. I am kink aware and knowledgable and take a sex positive approach. Specific issues covered include: erection problems, inability to orgasm, low sexual desire, painful intercourse, premature/early ejaculation, problematic porn use, relationship problems–couples/poly, (sex, gender, erotic, relationship) identity, BDSM, kinks and fetishes, vaginismus
My service is provided as a specialist sex and relationship therapist. I aim to provide a safe environment in which clients can share their intimate thoughts and problems with no fear of judgement. I honour all sexual orientations, gender identities and sexual preferences. I am kink aware and knowledgable and take a sex positive approach. Specific issues covered include: erection problems, inability to orgasm, low sexual desire, painful intercourse, premature/early ejaculation, problematic porn use, relationship problems–couples/poly, (sex, gender, erotic, relationship) identity, BDSM, kinks and fetishes, vaginismus
![Photo of Cristina Tosti, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99c7d0a1-c37d-4678-ba4f-0333c1040e57/2/320x400.jpeg)
My aim is to help you connect with your authentic self. The therapy is led by you, supported by me, we work together seeking greater awareness and clarity in order to facilitate deeper understanding and change. I am committed to working with diverse and marginalised communities and provide a safe, non-judgemental environment in order to empower you to effect positive changes in your life. I am a trained Humanistic Transactional Analysis therapist, with over 25 years’ experience in social care.
My aim is to help you connect with your authentic self. The therapy is led by you, supported by me, we work together seeking greater awareness and clarity in order to facilitate deeper understanding and change. I am committed to working with diverse and marginalised communities and provide a safe, non-judgemental environment in order to empower you to effect positive changes in your life. I am a trained Humanistic Transactional Analysis therapist, with over 25 years’ experience in social care.
See more therapy options for Oxford
Nearby LGBTQ+ Counsellors Searches for Oxford
- Abingdon
- Aylesbury
- Bicester
- Didcot
- Faringdon
- Hemel Hempstead
- Kidlington
- Thame
- Wallingford
- Wantage
- Witney
- Woodstock
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.