LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Payneham, SA

Photo of Stephanie Charlotte Russell, PhD, PACFA, Counsellor
Stephanie Charlotte Russell
Counsellor, PhD, PACFA
Verified Verified
Payneham, SA 5070
Hi. I am an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist, with more than eight years’ experience in helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, gender issues, identity expression, sexual preferences, and issues they face in relationship and social contexts. I have a lived experience with trans-identity realisation, and have worked to support diversity expression and acceptance of difference in its many forms within our society. My main concern is to provide a safe and caring space for the client where they feel valued and confident to share their concerns.
Hi. I am an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist, with more than eight years’ experience in helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, gender issues, identity expression, sexual preferences, and issues they face in relationship and social contexts. I have a lived experience with trans-identity realisation, and have worked to support diversity expression and acceptance of difference in its many forms within our society. My main concern is to provide a safe and caring space for the client where they feel valued and confident to share their concerns.
(08) 7079 4324 View (08) 7079 4324
Photo of Rachel Friebel - River Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor
River Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Payneham, SA 5070
Welcome to River Counselling! Some people come into counselling with a very clear understanding of what they need. Others may have a sense that something is wrong but they don’t quite know the way forward. My broad experience means that I am able to assist you to find the way ahead. I offer a supportive, non-judgemental service which will allow you to find clarity, gain new insight and work through your concerns. I work with both individuals and couples.
Welcome to River Counselling! Some people come into counselling with a very clear understanding of what they need. Others may have a sense that something is wrong but they don’t quite know the way forward. My broad experience means that I am able to assist you to find the way ahead. I offer a supportive, non-judgemental service which will allow you to find clarity, gain new insight and work through your concerns. I work with both individuals and couples.
(08) 7008 7168 View (08) 7008 7168
Photo of Ella Muldoon, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Ella Muldoon
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Payneham, SA 5070
I understand that high school and university can be a particularly tough time in people's lives, and I want to be there for people as an ear to listen. Not only schooling itself can be difficult, but every aspect of our lives can be - such as family, friends, extra curricular activities, risk taking, substances, and much more. It is easy to get caught up in issues with those that we are close with, so to work with a fresh set of eyes may be useful. I love learning about people's stories and will work from a non-judgemental frame of mind, because there is nothing to be ashamed of in sharing our stories.
I understand that high school and university can be a particularly tough time in people's lives, and I want to be there for people as an ear to listen. Not only schooling itself can be difficult, but every aspect of our lives can be - such as family, friends, extra curricular activities, risk taking, substances, and much more. It is easy to get caught up in issues with those that we are close with, so to work with a fresh set of eyes may be useful. I love learning about people's stories and will work from a non-judgemental frame of mind, because there is nothing to be ashamed of in sharing our stories.
(08) 7110 0936 View (08) 7110 0936

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Terry Evans, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Terry Evans
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Maylands, SA 5069
I can help you: work on relationship challenges, feel positive about your identity and sexuality, cope with negative social attitudes, with transgender issues, and other mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My approach to therapy is client directed and outcome informed. A brief measure is used at the beginning of each session to identify the areas of your life (personal, interpersonal, or social) that are causing most distress. We will work on these areas together in therapy. Reliable change can be expected after 6-7 sessions. At the end of each session a brief measure is used for you to assess the quality of our therapeutic relationship. Did you feel heard, respected, and understood; did we talk about what you wanted to talk about, and was my approach a good fit for you?
I can help you: work on relationship challenges, feel positive about your identity and sexuality, cope with negative social attitudes, with transgender issues, and other mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My approach to therapy is client directed and outcome informed. A brief measure is used at the beginning of each session to identify the areas of your life (personal, interpersonal, or social) that are causing most distress. We will work on these areas together in therapy. Reliable change can be expected after 6-7 sessions. At the end of each session a brief measure is used for you to assess the quality of our therapeutic relationship. Did you feel heard, respected, and understood; did we talk about what you wanted to talk about, and was my approach a good fit for you?
(08) 7008 9752 View (08) 7008 9752
Photo of Kai Niezgoda - Transform Counselling, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Transform Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Stonyfell, SA 5066  (Online Only)
We are committed to safe practice - to us, that means being culturally safe, LGBTQIA+ affirming, neuro-affirming, and trauma informed.
Maybe you have felt stuck lately. Maybe life has been throwing you a lot of challenges, and you're tired of trying to muddle your way through alone. Maybe you're struggling to work out who you are, and what you want and need in the first place - let alone how to get there. If that's true for you, you're not alone, and we're here to help.
We are committed to safe practice - to us, that means being culturally safe, LGBTQIA+ affirming, neuro-affirming, and trauma informed.
Maybe you have felt stuck lately. Maybe life has been throwing you a lot of challenges, and you're tired of trying to muddle your way through alone. Maybe you're struggling to work out who you are, and what you want and need in the first place - let alone how to get there. If that's true for you, you're not alone, and we're here to help.
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Photo of Stacey Micallef, MSc, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Stacey Micallef
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Adelaide, SA 5006  (Online Only)
Stacey is a sexologist who works with individuals and partners aiming to have healthy intimate relationships with others or themselves. ​ Stacey can help you explore intimate connections, sexual concerns and playful sex. As an LGBTQIA+ and neuro-diverse friendly therapist, Stacey creates a safe space where you can enhance your relationships and make your sex life more fulfilling. ​
Stacey is a sexologist who works with individuals and partners aiming to have healthy intimate relationships with others or themselves. ​ Stacey can help you explore intimate connections, sexual concerns and playful sex. As an LGBTQIA+ and neuro-diverse friendly therapist, Stacey creates a safe space where you can enhance your relationships and make your sex life more fulfilling. ​
(08) 7079 5750 View (08) 7079 5750
Photo of Jesse Muller - Jesse Muller - Counselling and Psychotherapy, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Jesse Muller - Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
North Adelaide, SA 5006
I also specialise in supporting trans and gender diverse people including LGBTIQA+ health and wellbeing more broadly.
Are you recovering from trauma, oppression or psychological abuse? Do you need support to heal and take charge of your life, creating wellbeing and freedom. If you are living with distress, anxiety, co-dependency or something is in the way of you enjoying and living your life, reach out and we can work together to support you to regain connection with yourself to start/continue towards creating the life you want. I also work with parents and the impacts of trauma on their experience as a parent and healing parent child dynamics. Trans and gender diverse people are welcome along with all people from LGBTIQA+ communities.
I also specialise in supporting trans and gender diverse people including LGBTIQA+ health and wellbeing more broadly.
Are you recovering from trauma, oppression or psychological abuse? Do you need support to heal and take charge of your life, creating wellbeing and freedom. If you are living with distress, anxiety, co-dependency or something is in the way of you enjoying and living your life, reach out and we can work together to support you to regain connection with yourself to start/continue towards creating the life you want. I also work with parents and the impacts of trauma on their experience as a parent and healing parent child dynamics. Trans and gender diverse people are welcome along with all people from LGBTIQA+ communities.
(08) 7100 9046 View (08) 7100 9046
Photo of Natasha Darke, PACFA, Counsellor
Natasha Darke
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Campbelltown, SA 5074
As someone who identifies as a queer & neuro-divergent survivor of complex trauma, I intimately understand the vital need for counsellors who can provide validating, affirming, empowering care.
Hello, I'm Natasha! Too often, traumatic experiences shake our sense of self and our inherent worth. I have personal experience of trauma and abuse, so I understand how difficult the process of finding the right therapeutic support can be. Here you are encouraged to go at your own pace and develop a trusting relationship where you can simply be yourself. I do my best to offer services that are flexible and accessible and that help you to rediscover and build on your strengths and self-worth. I will be tuning in to how you would like to progress; your goals, your pace, your needs.
As someone who identifies as a queer & neuro-divergent survivor of complex trauma, I intimately understand the vital need for counsellors who can provide validating, affirming, empowering care.
Hello, I'm Natasha! Too often, traumatic experiences shake our sense of self and our inherent worth. I have personal experience of trauma and abuse, so I understand how difficult the process of finding the right therapeutic support can be. Here you are encouraged to go at your own pace and develop a trusting relationship where you can simply be yourself. I do my best to offer services that are flexible and accessible and that help you to rediscover and build on your strengths and self-worth. I will be tuning in to how you would like to progress; your goals, your pace, your needs.
(08) 7078 7599 View (08) 7078 7599
Photo of Alexandra Frost | Director - Attuned Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Alexandra Frost | Director - Attuned Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Norwood, SA 5067
Hello, I'm Alexandra Frost (prefer Alex), Director and Principal Clinical Psychologist at Attuned Psychology, an established group practice with locations in North Adelaide and Glenelg. I am experienced in working with adolescents, adults, couples, performers and the LGBTQIA+ community both face to face and online. I look forward to working with you in a way that respects your uniqueness, wisdom, vulnerability, courage, and creativity. In 26 + years, I’ve developed an approach that helps me deepen my knowledge and understanding of what shapes your mental health and relationships, always bringing authenticity and presence.
Hello, I'm Alexandra Frost (prefer Alex), Director and Principal Clinical Psychologist at Attuned Psychology, an established group practice with locations in North Adelaide and Glenelg. I am experienced in working with adolescents, adults, couples, performers and the LGBTQIA+ community both face to face and online. I look forward to working with you in a way that respects your uniqueness, wisdom, vulnerability, courage, and creativity. In 26 + years, I’ve developed an approach that helps me deepen my knowledge and understanding of what shapes your mental health and relationships, always bringing authenticity and presence.
(08) 7008 9473 View (08) 7008 9473
Photo of Isy Ashford - The Art to Wellbeing, MA, AThR, Psychotherapist
The Art to Wellbeing
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Hillcrest, SA 5086
My name is Isy (She/Her) and I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ Community. I am a professionally registered Arts Therapist and have been a practicing art therapist since 2014. I offer a neuro-affirming and trauma informed practice and a supportive safe space to express and explore your challenges.
My name is Isy (She/Her) and I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ Community. I am a professionally registered Arts Therapist and have been a practicing art therapist since 2014. I offer a neuro-affirming and trauma informed practice and a supportive safe space to express and explore your challenges.
(08) 7079 4614 View (08) 7079 4614
Photo of Suzie Wise, Counsellor
Suzie Wise
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Payneham South, SA 5070
​ ​As a Holistic Counsellor and Transactional Analysis Practitioner, I offer a mind, body & spirit integrative approach to the therapeutic relationship ensuring you are met with warmth & depth.
I work with people around a diverse range of issues & dynamics including. Relationships/couples counselling, youth counselling, Aged/Elderly & memory support, Intimacy/ Connection, ADHD, Grief & Loss, Trauma, Non-religious spirituality/Faith, LGBT+ & personal development.
​ ​As a Holistic Counsellor and Transactional Analysis Practitioner, I offer a mind, body & spirit integrative approach to the therapeutic relationship ensuring you are met with warmth & depth.
I work with people around a diverse range of issues & dynamics including. Relationships/couples counselling, youth counselling, Aged/Elderly & memory support, Intimacy/ Connection, ADHD, Grief & Loss, Trauma, Non-religious spirituality/Faith, LGBT+ & personal development.
(08) 7008 9007 View (08) 7008 9007
Photo of Kai Robinson - Polysoma, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Polysoma
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Norwood, SA 5067
My name is Kai, and I am a psychotherapist/sexologist. If you're facing challenges like low libido, pain, sexual concerns, or past traumas, you're in the right place. My approach is tailored to individuals seeking a safe, non-judgmental environment to heal and understand themselves. Whether your goal is to enhance intimacy, overcome past trauma, or feel empowered in your sexuality, I'm here to support you. My integrated approach combines somatic sex therapy, trauma-informed care, pain education to support your journey towards a healthier you.
My name is Kai, and I am a psychotherapist/sexologist. If you're facing challenges like low libido, pain, sexual concerns, or past traumas, you're in the right place. My approach is tailored to individuals seeking a safe, non-judgmental environment to heal and understand themselves. Whether your goal is to enhance intimacy, overcome past trauma, or feel empowered in your sexuality, I'm here to support you. My integrated approach combines somatic sex therapy, trauma-informed care, pain education to support your journey towards a healthier you.
(08) 7008 9770 View (08) 7008 9770
Photo of Milica McKay, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Milica McKay
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Kent Town, SA 5067
I'm looking to connect with individuals who are on a journey of introspection, exploration and unpacking thoughts, feelings and experiences. We will be working towards long-lasting change where the root cause of an issue can be addressed and processed. Each treatment is uniquely tailored to your specific needs and thus the therapeutic style is non-manualised and not necessarily focused on reaching outcomes/end results, but rather on the process of therapy and its unfolding nature.
I'm looking to connect with individuals who are on a journey of introspection, exploration and unpacking thoughts, feelings and experiences. We will be working towards long-lasting change where the root cause of an issue can be addressed and processed. Each treatment is uniquely tailored to your specific needs and thus the therapeutic style is non-manualised and not necessarily focused on reaching outcomes/end results, but rather on the process of therapy and its unfolding nature.
(08) 7008 7849 View (08) 7008 7849
Photo of Melanie Walker - Melanie Walker | Anxiety & Wellness Clinic , AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Walker | Anxiety & Wellness Clinic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
North Adelaide, SA 5006
Together, we will take a holistic approach to improve & transform your overall wellbeing & quality of life - with the goal of fostering transformation & lasting change.
I specialise in supporting people experiencing anxiety, stress, panic attacks, agoraphobia, burnout, low mood, intrusive thoughts & trauma-related concerns. I'll support you to overcome these challenges through education, mapping your nervous system, building insight into early warning signs & triggers, developing emotional regulation tools, increasing cognitive flexibility & graded exposure. I combine your personal expertise—your knowledge of your lived experiences, strengths & tools—with my professional expertise in mental health & evidence-based interventions, including Polyvagal Theory, CBT, ACT, mindfulness & breath work.
Together, we will take a holistic approach to improve & transform your overall wellbeing & quality of life - with the goal of fostering transformation & lasting change.
I specialise in supporting people experiencing anxiety, stress, panic attacks, agoraphobia, burnout, low mood, intrusive thoughts & trauma-related concerns. I'll support you to overcome these challenges through education, mapping your nervous system, building insight into early warning signs & triggers, developing emotional regulation tools, increasing cognitive flexibility & graded exposure. I combine your personal expertise—your knowledge of your lived experiences, strengths & tools—with my professional expertise in mental health & evidence-based interventions, including Polyvagal Theory, CBT, ACT, mindfulness & breath work.
0403 447 111 View 0403 447 111
Photo of Nikki Lucas, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Nikki Lucas
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Norwood, SA 5067
Hi I'm Nikki, a psychotherapist and Mind-body eating coach. You may be experiencing stress and anxiety in some form or another. You may have an idea of what might be causing it but are overwhelmed or unsure how to start improving your situation and mood. From my own experience and from what I've observed in others, we often compound our issues with coping mechanisms. For example we use food, drugs and alcohol, Nettflix, social withdrawal, self-harm and compulsive behaviour to try and numb and avoid feelings associated with anxiety or depression.
Hi I'm Nikki, a psychotherapist and Mind-body eating coach. You may be experiencing stress and anxiety in some form or another. You may have an idea of what might be causing it but are overwhelmed or unsure how to start improving your situation and mood. From my own experience and from what I've observed in others, we often compound our issues with coping mechanisms. For example we use food, drugs and alcohol, Nettflix, social withdrawal, self-harm and compulsive behaviour to try and numb and avoid feelings associated with anxiety or depression.
(08) 7008 9928 View (08) 7008 9928
Photo of Oscar Williams, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Oscar Williams
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Hillcrest, SA 5086
Oscar is a registered psychologist with many years’ experience, having worked in both the public and private sectors including in community mental health, correctional services, private practice and as a senior manager and corporate trainer. Oscar Williams is passionate about helping clients to overcome issues related to daily life, career direction or mental health. Oscar utilises a strength-based approach that is tailored to each client’s specific needs with the aim to identify evidence-based strategies that are easily applied and have significant results.
Oscar is a registered psychologist with many years’ experience, having worked in both the public and private sectors including in community mental health, correctional services, private practice and as a senior manager and corporate trainer. Oscar Williams is passionate about helping clients to overcome issues related to daily life, career direction or mental health. Oscar utilises a strength-based approach that is tailored to each client’s specific needs with the aim to identify evidence-based strategies that are easily applied and have significant results.
(08) 8266 7788 View (08) 8266 7788
Photo of Rebecca Najar, PsyBA - Ed. Psych., Psychologist
Rebecca Najar
Psychologist, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Norwood, SA 5067
I have been in the field since 2018 and worked within both Private and Public sectors, before moving into more specialised work with a focus on Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). This experience has allowed me to develop a broad scope of skills and an ability to support a wide range of clients and complex presentations. I have particular experience supporting clients with; Borderline Personality, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, assertiveness training, trauma, domestic violence, work-related difficulties, interpersonal difficulties, sleep problems and emotional dysregulation.
I have been in the field since 2018 and worked within both Private and Public sectors, before moving into more specialised work with a focus on Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). This experience has allowed me to develop a broad scope of skills and an ability to support a wide range of clients and complex presentations. I have particular experience supporting clients with; Borderline Personality, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, assertiveness training, trauma, domestic violence, work-related difficulties, interpersonal difficulties, sleep problems and emotional dysregulation.
(03) 5907 5935 View (03) 5907 5935
Photo of Anisa Varasteh, MSc, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Anisa Varasteh
Psychotherapist, MSc, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
North Adelaide, SA 5006
I am an accredited clinical sexologist and current President of Society of Australian Sexologists. Our clients are successful, high-achieving individuals and couples who often describe their intimate life as the missing piece of their personal puzzle. I see a handful of clients and specialise in sexual confidence, non-normative sexual practices and intimacy in long-term relationships. I see clients face-to-face in North Adelaide or online via Zoom.
I am an accredited clinical sexologist and current President of Society of Australian Sexologists. Our clients are successful, high-achieving individuals and couples who often describe their intimate life as the missing piece of their personal puzzle. I see a handful of clients and specialise in sexual confidence, non-normative sexual practices and intimacy in long-term relationships. I see clients face-to-face in North Adelaide or online via Zoom.
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Photo of Rocco Luppino, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Rocco Luppino
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Felixstow, SA 5070
As well as the services listed to the right, I am passionate about assisting individuals in areas including IVF/Surrogacy, parenting, LGBTI+.
Welcome to Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing. Our Clinical Psychologists, Registered Psychologists, and Accredited Mental Health Social Workers at Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing are based in the East of Adelaide across two locations at Felixstow, where we see children, adolescents, adults, older persons, families and new parents with infants. We are also able to see individuals on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and the Department of Veteran's Affairs (DVA). www.willowtreepsychology.com.au
As well as the services listed to the right, I am passionate about assisting individuals in areas including IVF/Surrogacy, parenting, LGBTI+.
Welcome to Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing. Our Clinical Psychologists, Registered Psychologists, and Accredited Mental Health Social Workers at Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing are based in the East of Adelaide across two locations at Felixstow, where we see children, adolescents, adults, older persons, families and new parents with infants. We are also able to see individuals on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and the Department of Veteran's Affairs (DVA). www.willowtreepsychology.com.au
(08) 8646 5601 View (08) 8646 5601
Photo of Michelle Dean Woods, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Dean Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medindie, SA 5081
Welcome! I offer counselling that is tailored to your situation with a focus on achieving change that is meaningful to you. Life is undoubtedly tricky sometimes. Taking time out to gain new perspectives and make sense of your experience can help. I have a warm, genuine, empathic and often humorous approach, based on over 18 years experience. I enjoy connecting with adults, teens and children and would like to invite you to call and discuss your situation today.
Welcome! I offer counselling that is tailored to your situation with a focus on achieving change that is meaningful to you. Life is undoubtedly tricky sometimes. Taking time out to gain new perspectives and make sense of your experience can help. I have a warm, genuine, empathic and often humorous approach, based on over 18 years experience. I enjoy connecting with adults, teens and children and would like to invite you to call and discuss your situation today.
(08) 7008 9840 View (08) 7008 9840

See more therapy options for Payneham

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.