LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Preston, VIC

Photo of Suzanne Bouillet - Zane Bouillet
Zane Bouillet
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
I am also passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community looking for a therapist who already understands the complexities of gender identity, sexuality and/or non-monogamous relationships.
Hello! My name is Zane (they/them) and I am a non-binary and neurodivergent counsellor. I work with adolescents and adults of all genders seeking support with a variety of challenges. These include anxiety, depression, self-worth, navigating neurodiversity (including ADHD and autism), exploring gender identity and/or sexuality, body image issues, grief around life transitions, chronic illness and chronic pain. Are you stuck in cycles of overwhelm that you just can’t seem to get out of? Do you struggle with shame and self-criticism? Do you have a strong sense that something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start?
I am also passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community looking for a therapist who already understands the complexities of gender identity, sexuality and/or non-monogamous relationships.
Hello! My name is Zane (they/them) and I am a non-binary and neurodivergent counsellor. I work with adolescents and adults of all genders seeking support with a variety of challenges. These include anxiety, depression, self-worth, navigating neurodiversity (including ADHD and autism), exploring gender identity and/or sexuality, body image issues, grief around life transitions, chronic illness and chronic pain. Are you stuck in cycles of overwhelm that you just can’t seem to get out of? Do you struggle with shame and self-criticism? Do you have a strong sense that something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start?
(03) 8338 4141 View (03) 8338 4141
Photo of Marcus O'Shea, MSc, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Marcus O'Shea
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072  (Online Only)
I'm Marcus O'Shea, and I'm a counsellor and psychotherapist specialising in anxiety, depression, trauma (including C-PTSD), ADHD, Autism, neurodivergent, disability, and LGBT issues. I also offer a free introductory meeting so you can find out if I'm the right fit for you. I work in a collaborative and flexible manner, with understanding my client's stories and experiences as my priority. Integrating a variety of approaches and tools, I aim to work together with you to learn about your unique experience and how to best foster healing and growth.
I'm Marcus O'Shea, and I'm a counsellor and psychotherapist specialising in anxiety, depression, trauma (including C-PTSD), ADHD, Autism, neurodivergent, disability, and LGBT issues. I also offer a free introductory meeting so you can find out if I'm the right fit for you. I work in a collaborative and flexible manner, with understanding my client's stories and experiences as my priority. Integrating a variety of approaches and tools, I aim to work together with you to learn about your unique experience and how to best foster healing and growth.
(03) 8338 4334 View (03) 8338 4334
Photo of Claudia Allison - Claudia Allison Counselling & Psychotherapy, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Claudia Allison Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am well-equipped in dealing with issues around gender and sexuality.
I am a Counsellor and Psychotherapist who works from a wholistic, trauma-informed, social justice framework. I believe that each client is unique and individual and I use a client-centred approach. It is important that you feel empowered and in control of the sessions which means that we will work together to find out what works for you and your needs. Areas I am particularly interested in are self-esteem and self-growth, trauma healing, managing anxiety and gender and sexuality exploration.
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am well-equipped in dealing with issues around gender and sexuality.
I am a Counsellor and Psychotherapist who works from a wholistic, trauma-informed, social justice framework. I believe that each client is unique and individual and I use a client-centred approach. It is important that you feel empowered and in control of the sessions which means that we will work together to find out what works for you and your needs. Areas I am particularly interested in are self-esteem and self-growth, trauma healing, managing anxiety and gender and sexuality exploration.
(03) 9344 1562 View (03) 9344 1562
Photo of Dr Jesse Smith, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Jesse Smith
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
LGBTQIA+ (member and ally), neurodiversity affirming, sex worker ally, disability ally.
The Purpose of Therapy.... It may be a holding pattern that will not shift; low mood; feeling fearful or worried; feeling angry; past memories that continue to come back; confusing feelings/responses; disconnection from self/others. In therapy, I aim to help you identify, and process, the factors (memories, beliefs, body responses) underpinning the experiences that you hope to shift. Utilising experiential techniques (emotions, body sensations, memory networks, cognitions, behavioural holding patterns) which provide a deeper level understanding, processing, and lasting change. This is an open, honest, and inclusive space.
LGBTQIA+ (member and ally), neurodiversity affirming, sex worker ally, disability ally.
The Purpose of Therapy.... It may be a holding pattern that will not shift; low mood; feeling fearful or worried; feeling angry; past memories that continue to come back; confusing feelings/responses; disconnection from self/others. In therapy, I aim to help you identify, and process, the factors (memories, beliefs, body responses) underpinning the experiences that you hope to shift. Utilising experiential techniques (emotions, body sensations, memory networks, cognitions, behavioural holding patterns) which provide a deeper level understanding, processing, and lasting change. This is an open, honest, and inclusive space.
(03) 7003 2731 View (03) 7003 2731
Photo of Dettie Onus Browne, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dettie Onus Browne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
I take a collaborative and transparent approach, and love to hear about what modalities and interventions you prefer (and those you do not like!).
Hello, I’m Dettie, a white, non-binary queer and trans person living on the unceded land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. I’m a qualified social worker and therapist, providing counselling for individuals, couples, and families. I have an invested interest in working with neurodivergent people, LGBTIQA+ people and their families, survivors of conversion and suppression practices, people who have used violence in relationships and people who experience complex and/or relational trauma. I work with people of all genders, sexualities, religions/faiths and cultures.
I take a collaborative and transparent approach, and love to hear about what modalities and interventions you prefer (and those you do not like!).
Hello, I’m Dettie, a white, non-binary queer and trans person living on the unceded land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. I’m a qualified social worker and therapist, providing counselling for individuals, couples, and families. I have an invested interest in working with neurodivergent people, LGBTIQA+ people and their families, survivors of conversion and suppression practices, people who have used violence in relationships and people who experience complex and/or relational trauma. I work with people of all genders, sexualities, religions/faiths and cultures.
(03) 7302 2732 View (03) 7302 2732
Photo of Sophia Harvey, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sophia Harvey
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
I believe the client is the expert and my role is to facilitate processes for you to gain more conscious awareness and create transformation in your life.
I support adults and teenagers experiencing trauma, anxiety, mild depression, those feeling stuck or lost, and those going through life transitions or relationship challenges, including conflict at work & personally. I love supporting people through transformation, so they feel more connected, loving and in purpose, with the clarity to move forward in their lives in meaningful and fulfilling ways. I work through a human rights lens, with a background in international humanitarian work. I am sensitive to cross cultural and LGBTQIA+ needs in therapy.
I believe the client is the expert and my role is to facilitate processes for you to gain more conscious awareness and create transformation in your life.
I support adults and teenagers experiencing trauma, anxiety, mild depression, those feeling stuck or lost, and those going through life transitions or relationship challenges, including conflict at work & personally. I love supporting people through transformation, so they feel more connected, loving and in purpose, with the clarity to move forward in their lives in meaningful and fulfilling ways. I work through a human rights lens, with a background in international humanitarian work. I am sensitive to cross cultural and LGBTQIA+ needs in therapy.
(03) 8338 4074 View (03) 8338 4074
Photo of Jager Corvus, AASW, Counsellor
Jager Corvus
Counsellor, AASW
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072  (Online Only)
I see this as change itself, for it’s in this transitory space that shifts occur & it calls for us to get creative about the healing process.
I'm a non-binary trans practitioner with a strong interest in relational, complex & collective trauma. I take a generative somatics approach that acknowledges how marginalised bodies are impacted by oppressive systems. I’m also a Masters qualified Social Worker with over 20 years experience working in Community Services (Disability, HIV/AIDS, Youth, AOD, Prison Abolition & LGBTIQA+). I share a cherished alliance with my clients, which holds both gentle vulnerabilities & fierce stirrings. I work with all genders, sexualities, cultures, divergences, abilities.
I see this as change itself, for it’s in this transitory space that shifts occur & it calls for us to get creative about the healing process.
I'm a non-binary trans practitioner with a strong interest in relational, complex & collective trauma. I take a generative somatics approach that acknowledges how marginalised bodies are impacted by oppressive systems. I’m also a Masters qualified Social Worker with over 20 years experience working in Community Services (Disability, HIV/AIDS, Youth, AOD, Prison Abolition & LGBTIQA+). I share a cherished alliance with my clients, which holds both gentle vulnerabilities & fierce stirrings. I work with all genders, sexualities, cultures, divergences, abilities.
(03) 8338 1772 View (03) 8338 1772
Photo of Ash Ruskin, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ash Ruskin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
Ash (she/her) is an accredited social worker and therapist who works with young people and adults from diverse backgrounds and identities, practicing on unceded Wurundjeri country. She specialises in supporting people impacted by various life challenges and often works with people who have experienced anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, family violence, alcohol and drug issues, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, relationship breakdowns and more. She also supports people navigating life transitions and people within the queer community.
Ash (she/her) is an accredited social worker and therapist who works with young people and adults from diverse backgrounds and identities, practicing on unceded Wurundjeri country. She specialises in supporting people impacted by various life challenges and often works with people who have experienced anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, family violence, alcohol and drug issues, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, relationship breakdowns and more. She also supports people navigating life transitions and people within the queer community.
(03) 8338 1602 View (03) 8338 1602
Photo of Dr Melanie Schuijers, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Melanie Schuijers
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Hi, my name is Melanie. I am a registered clinical psychologist and couples therapist with she/her pronouns working on Wurundjeri land. I completed a Doctor of Psychology (Clinical) and am a member of the APS. I have experience working with a diverse range of people from all walks of life and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for all my clients. This is a LGBTQIA+ friendly space and all cultural backrounds are welcome. All relationship structures are also welcome. I offer face-to-face appointments in Brunswick on Wednesdays and Thursdays for couples+.
Hi, my name is Melanie. I am a registered clinical psychologist and couples therapist with she/her pronouns working on Wurundjeri land. I completed a Doctor of Psychology (Clinical) and am a member of the APS. I have experience working with a diverse range of people from all walks of life and strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for all my clients. This is a LGBTQIA+ friendly space and all cultural backrounds are welcome. All relationship structures are also welcome. I offer face-to-face appointments in Brunswick on Wednesdays and Thursdays for couples+.
View
Photo of Kelly Jane Kerr, MA, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Jane Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m a white, queer lesbian, Internal Family Systems therapist (level 2), social worker & meditation facilitator. I am experienced working with victim-survivors of family violence, chronic mental illness & complex trauma. I work closely with LGBTQIA, neurodiverse, sex worker communities & spiritual practitioners. I can collaborate with you to cultivate emotional balance, reduce anxiety, rewrite narratives of unworthiness & shame, heal trauma, understand your sexuality, develop conscious boundary setting & needs-based communication skills, strengthen your body-mind connection, navigate grief & loss, & unpack white privilege.
Hello! I’m a white, queer lesbian, Internal Family Systems therapist (level 2), social worker & meditation facilitator. I am experienced working with victim-survivors of family violence, chronic mental illness & complex trauma. I work closely with LGBTQIA, neurodiverse, sex worker communities & spiritual practitioners. I can collaborate with you to cultivate emotional balance, reduce anxiety, rewrite narratives of unworthiness & shame, heal trauma, understand your sexuality, develop conscious boundary setting & needs-based communication skills, strengthen your body-mind connection, navigate grief & loss, & unpack white privilege.
(03) 8400 0990 View (03) 8400 0990
Photo of Christa Winkels, MA, AThR, Counsellor
Christa Winkels
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
I specialise in and offer support for a range of concerns, including: sex and intimacy, identity, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief and loss, relationships and interpersonal challenges, parenting, perinatal mental health, developmental and complex trauma, eating disorders, anxiety and depression, exploring and connecting with self, and cultivating creativity.
I am an accredited art therapist, social worker, and yoga/movement facilitator with 10+ years experience working within the mental health and family violence sectors. I practice in an integrative and relational way, utilising a range of theories and approaches. I work in collaboration with you to find what best fits your needs, and understand that this can often change from one session to the next. I am drawn to a range of creative, somatic and movement-based practices, and enjoy exploring and co-creating 'safe-enough' spaces to experience curiosity, play, respect, reciprocity, warmth, and connection.
I specialise in and offer support for a range of concerns, including: sex and intimacy, identity, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief and loss, relationships and interpersonal challenges, parenting, perinatal mental health, developmental and complex trauma, eating disorders, anxiety and depression, exploring and connecting with self, and cultivating creativity.
I am an accredited art therapist, social worker, and yoga/movement facilitator with 10+ years experience working within the mental health and family violence sectors. I practice in an integrative and relational way, utilising a range of theories and approaches. I work in collaboration with you to find what best fits your needs, and understand that this can often change from one session to the next. I am drawn to a range of creative, somatic and movement-based practices, and enjoy exploring and co-creating 'safe-enough' spaces to experience curiosity, play, respect, reciprocity, warmth, and connection.
View
Photo of Elliott Hunter McMahon, MA, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elliott Hunter McMahon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
As a transgender man, I have strong connections to the Queer community, and a personal understanding of the ways that shame and discrimination can impact the ways we see ourselves.
I am a social worker and family therapist with over eight years post-qualifying experience, and over five years experience providing supervision and consultation to frontline practitioners and leaders in mental health, AoD, family violence and housing and homelessness sectors. I offer compassionate and non-judgemental services to people in Melbourne who have been impacted by the war on people who use drugs, the criminalisation of sex work, incarceration, and other forms of marginalisation.
As a transgender man, I have strong connections to the Queer community, and a personal understanding of the ways that shame and discrimination can impact the ways we see ourselves.
I am a social worker and family therapist with over eight years post-qualifying experience, and over five years experience providing supervision and consultation to frontline practitioners and leaders in mental health, AoD, family violence and housing and homelessness sectors. I offer compassionate and non-judgemental services to people in Melbourne who have been impacted by the war on people who use drugs, the criminalisation of sex work, incarceration, and other forms of marginalisation.
(03) 8104 9400 View (03) 8104 9400
Photo of Jigisha Sanghvi, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jigisha Sanghvi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
I am LGBTQIA+ and neuro-diverse affirming practitioner.
I am a psychotherapist, Medicare approved Clinical Social Worker, a trauma trained EMDR and Eating Disorder therapist. Off late, you may have noticed emotions and thoughts continue to rule your life, and no matter how hard you try, it never feels 'good enough'. You find yourself stuck in the cycle of 'wanting to please others' while feeling unseen and unheard. You now know that your anxiety and need for control is no longer serving you. You want to start honouring yourself and your needs, even when if it feels hard.
I am LGBTQIA+ and neuro-diverse affirming practitioner.
I am a psychotherapist, Medicare approved Clinical Social Worker, a trauma trained EMDR and Eating Disorder therapist. Off late, you may have noticed emotions and thoughts continue to rule your life, and no matter how hard you try, it never feels 'good enough'. You find yourself stuck in the cycle of 'wanting to please others' while feeling unseen and unheard. You now know that your anxiety and need for control is no longer serving you. You want to start honouring yourself and your needs, even when if it feels hard.
(03) 8338 1847 View (03) 8338 1847
Photo of Abby Draper - They/Them/Us Mental Health & Well-Being, MA
They/Them/Us Mental Health & Well-Being
Occupational Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
They/Them/Us Mental Health & Well-Being LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent and TGS Affirmative Practice (Allies Welcome!) is client centred, culturally inclusive, recovery and strengths based and trauma informed. We provide a non judgemental calm/alert environment to enhance emotional, physical and psychological safety. Increasing your 'Window of Tolerance' to be more present, regulate your emotions and your capacity to process, reflect and communicate yourself during Therapy.
They/Them/Us Mental Health & Well-Being LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent and TGS Affirmative Practice (Allies Welcome!) is client centred, culturally inclusive, recovery and strengths based and trauma informed. We provide a non judgemental calm/alert environment to enhance emotional, physical and psychological safety. Increasing your 'Window of Tolerance' to be more present, regulate your emotions and your capacity to process, reflect and communicate yourself during Therapy.
(03) 9111 5377 View (03) 9111 5377
Photo of Kat Maguire, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Kat Maguire
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
Kat is LGBTQIA+ friendly, sex+, sex worker+ & neuro-affirming.
Kat (she/her) is a clinically registered psychotherapist specialising in trauma-informed individual therapy for adults and older teens. Approaching her clients with a focus on understanding rather than labelling or diagnosing, Kat believes in delving into each individual's unique story with a nonjudgmental curiosity. With a distinctive mix of humour and warmth, she establishes a secure environment for clients to explore their inner and outer worlds with vulnerability.
Kat is LGBTQIA+ friendly, sex+, sex worker+ & neuro-affirming.
Kat (she/her) is a clinically registered psychotherapist specialising in trauma-informed individual therapy for adults and older teens. Approaching her clients with a focus on understanding rather than labelling or diagnosing, Kat believes in delving into each individual's unique story with a nonjudgmental curiosity. With a distinctive mix of humour and warmth, she establishes a secure environment for clients to explore their inner and outer worlds with vulnerability.
(03) 7003 2952 View (03) 7003 2952
Photo of Ari Heart - Gender Therapy & Coaching, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Gender Therapy & Coaching
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072  (Online Only)
Whether you are a long time veteran of trans life and you're looking to get support with something in particular, or you're right in the belly of a fresh discovery and feeling overwhelmed by it all, I invite you to reach out.
My name is Ari Heart. I am a trans non-binary person, a psychotherapist, coach and educator in all things trans wellbeing. I help trans and nonbinary people experience greater clarity, ease and relief, without months or years of ongoing talk therapy. If you are struggling with your identity, dysphoria, your relationship with your body, decisions about transition/gender affirmation, how you can navigate other people, coming out, finding your authentic expression, or any other gender-based challenge, you do not have to be alone with it. We can work together to accelerate your movement towards a meaningful, enjoyable trans life.
Whether you are a long time veteran of trans life and you're looking to get support with something in particular, or you're right in the belly of a fresh discovery and feeling overwhelmed by it all, I invite you to reach out.
My name is Ari Heart. I am a trans non-binary person, a psychotherapist, coach and educator in all things trans wellbeing. I help trans and nonbinary people experience greater clarity, ease and relief, without months or years of ongoing talk therapy. If you are struggling with your identity, dysphoria, your relationship with your body, decisions about transition/gender affirmation, how you can navigate other people, coming out, finding your authentic expression, or any other gender-based challenge, you do not have to be alone with it. We can work together to accelerate your movement towards a meaningful, enjoyable trans life.
(03) 7003 2710 View (03) 7003 2710
Photo of Shiao-Hua Kwong, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Shiao-Hua Kwong
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
I am an LGBTQIA+ affirmative clinician.
I am a clinical psychologist and a client-centred and trauma-informed therapist who works from a standpoint of compassion and curiosity. A migrant from Asia, fluent in English, Mandarin and Cantonese, I have firsthand experience of uprooting from what is familiar and reestablishing in a new environment. I also bring into the therapy room an experience of major career change. I feel privileged to be able to help people make personal recovery from life-changing circumstances, in rebuilding hope, redefining self-identity, assuming / re-assuming responsibilities, and leading a meaningful life.
I am an LGBTQIA+ affirmative clinician.
I am a clinical psychologist and a client-centred and trauma-informed therapist who works from a standpoint of compassion and curiosity. A migrant from Asia, fluent in English, Mandarin and Cantonese, I have firsthand experience of uprooting from what is familiar and reestablishing in a new environment. I also bring into the therapy room an experience of major career change. I feel privileged to be able to help people make personal recovery from life-changing circumstances, in rebuilding hope, redefining self-identity, assuming / re-assuming responsibilities, and leading a meaningful life.
(03) 9111 2663 View (03) 9111 2663
Photo of Sydney Ruiz, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Sydney Ruiz
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Hi! I'm a psychotherapist dedicated to helping people to achieve lasting change and growth. My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and supportive, providing a space for you to explore and experience whatever has been unmanageable alone. Whether you're feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, dealing with grief or loss, wanting to make positive changes, or discover your strengths, I will work collaboratively with you. I take an integrative approach, and care about every facet of your wellbeing. Nothing is irrelevant, and nothing is too silly or strange to express.
Hi! I'm a psychotherapist dedicated to helping people to achieve lasting change and growth. My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and supportive, providing a space for you to explore and experience whatever has been unmanageable alone. Whether you're feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, dealing with grief or loss, wanting to make positive changes, or discover your strengths, I will work collaboratively with you. I take an integrative approach, and care about every facet of your wellbeing. Nothing is irrelevant, and nothing is too silly or strange to express.
(03) 9111 2662 View (03) 9111 2662
Photo of Laura Kemppainen, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Laura Kemppainen
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Laura is a psychologist and supervisor working from Fitzory. She works across the life-span with adults as well as some adolescents and children and has a tailored and person-centered approach. Laura is an ANZAED accredited eating disorder practitioner, and also works with e.g. depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, OCD, life-related stresses, women's health and alcohol use. With children & adolescents she work with a developmental framework including assessment, talking and creative/play therapy and work with parents. Laura also provides appointments in German/Finnish and supervision for other clinicians.
Laura is a psychologist and supervisor working from Fitzory. She works across the life-span with adults as well as some adolescents and children and has a tailored and person-centered approach. Laura is an ANZAED accredited eating disorder practitioner, and also works with e.g. depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, OCD, life-related stresses, women's health and alcohol use. With children & adolescents she work with a developmental framework including assessment, talking and creative/play therapy and work with parents. Laura also provides appointments in German/Finnish and supervision for other clinicians.
(03) 9020 4507 View (03) 9020 4507
Photo of Ruth Katerelos, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Ruth Katerelos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
In over 20 years as a therapist, I have worked with a wide range of clients and couples with many and varied issues. I work in a way that is strongly client, and emotionally focused. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, substance issues, food disorders, grief, child-hood trauma, uncertainty around sexuality and gender, around identity and self confidence/esteem. I work well with clients who are looking to change their lives and who are open to exploring their issues; to challenge their thinking and to examine what isn't working for them and to take practical steps to shift beyond where they are now.
In over 20 years as a therapist, I have worked with a wide range of clients and couples with many and varied issues. I work in a way that is strongly client, and emotionally focused. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, substance issues, food disorders, grief, child-hood trauma, uncertainty around sexuality and gender, around identity and self confidence/esteem. I work well with clients who are looking to change their lives and who are open to exploring their issues; to challenge their thinking and to examine what isn't working for them and to take practical steps to shift beyond where they are now.
(02) 4504 0223 View (02) 4504 0223
1

See more therapy options for Preston

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.