LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Warburton, VIC

Photo of Chenai Mupotsa-Russell, MA, AThR, Psychotherapist
Chenai Mupotsa-Russell
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Warburton, VIC 3799
Not accepting new clients
I specialise in working with LGBTQAI+ people, neurodivergent people and BIPOC.
Chenai is a therapist living and working on Wurundjeri Land. She is Founder of Rainbow Muse which offers art therapy, peer support, psychology, play therapy, animal-assisted therapy and yoga. She is also the Founder of Tandara Pa Rainbow, a community-focused space for creativity, connection, culture and collective care. Chenai has a strong passion for working with minoritised people with an intersectional framework. In her therapeutic work she centres the needs of First Nations people, Black people, and People of Colour, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent and disabled communities. She is also doing her PhD in Community Psychology
I specialise in working with LGBTQAI+ people, neurodivergent people and BIPOC.
Chenai is a therapist living and working on Wurundjeri Land. She is Founder of Rainbow Muse which offers art therapy, peer support, psychology, play therapy, animal-assisted therapy and yoga. She is also the Founder of Tandara Pa Rainbow, a community-focused space for creativity, connection, culture and collective care. Chenai has a strong passion for working with minoritised people with an intersectional framework. In her therapeutic work she centres the needs of First Nations people, Black people, and People of Colour, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent and disabled communities. She is also doing her PhD in Community Psychology
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Online Therapists

Photo of Pip (Hannah) Fell, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Pip (Hannah) Fell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3004  (Online Only)
It is my commitment to provide an all-encompassing practice, including providing psychological treatment to those in the LGBTQIA+ community, and people from all socioeconomic, religious and cultural backgrounds.
My name is Pip (Hannah) Fell and I am a registered counselling psychologist. I have worked extensively in private practice, community health, trauma rehabilitation services and fertility services around Melbourne since 2015. I have experience working with people who encounter a broad range of mental health issues, including but not limited to; anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship difficulties, trauma, identity matters, fertility concerns, and personality disorders.
It is my commitment to provide an all-encompassing practice, including providing psychological treatment to those in the LGBTQIA+ community, and people from all socioeconomic, religious and cultural backgrounds.
My name is Pip (Hannah) Fell and I am a registered counselling psychologist. I have worked extensively in private practice, community health, trauma rehabilitation services and fertility services around Melbourne since 2015. I have experience working with people who encounter a broad range of mental health issues, including but not limited to; anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship difficulties, trauma, identity matters, fertility concerns, and personality disorders.
(03) 7003 2442 View (03) 7003 2442
Photo of Dr Robert Eres, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Robert Eres
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032  (Online Only)
I have lived experience of being a queer country kid from immigrant parents and I have a strong appreciation of the challenges raised by intersectionality and minority stress.
I am a gender affirming clinical psychologist with a primary interest in supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as people in rural and remote areas of Australia. I help support people with a range of concerns, but ultimately I support children, adolescents, and adults to become the best versions of themselves.
I have lived experience of being a queer country kid from immigrant parents and I have a strong appreciation of the challenges raised by intersectionality and minority stress.
I am a gender affirming clinical psychologist with a primary interest in supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as people in rural and remote areas of Australia. I help support people with a range of concerns, but ultimately I support children, adolescents, and adults to become the best versions of themselves.
(03) 7003 2854 View (03) 7003 2854
Photo of David Mackay, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
David Mackay
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032  (Online Only)
○Accepting online clients○ . I work with Veterans, Tradies, and people who identify as LGBTQ. I like to help with a range of concerns from Stress and Burnout, to Trauma and OCD. I like to help people with processing trauma (PTSD), improving communication & relationships, and coping with anxiety and depression. I aim to help clients reach goals of self-empowerment so that they can feel in control of their lives.
○Accepting online clients○ . I work with Veterans, Tradies, and people who identify as LGBTQ. I like to help with a range of concerns from Stress and Burnout, to Trauma and OCD. I like to help people with processing trauma (PTSD), improving communication & relationships, and coping with anxiety and depression. I aim to help clients reach goals of self-empowerment so that they can feel in control of their lives.
(07) 3608 1085 View (07) 3608 1085
Photo of Suzanne Bouillet - Zane Bouillet
Zane Bouillet
Verified Verified
Collingwood, VIC 3066
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 Damien Pannett, PACFA, Counsellor
Damien Pannett
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182  (Online Only)
I work with people of all genders and sexualities, and ensure a space that is trans and queer affirming.
Life can get difficult at times - whether it be experiences of loss, shame or self-doubt, we can all experience challenges. Sometimes we might need a safe space to reflect and discuss where we are headed or how we are feeling.
I work with people of all genders and sexualities, and ensure a space that is trans and queer affirming.
Life can get difficult at times - whether it be experiences of loss, shame or self-doubt, we can all experience challenges. Sometimes we might need a safe space to reflect and discuss where we are headed or how we are feeling.
(03) 7003 2439 View (03) 7003 2439
Photo of Jake Glanc, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jake Glanc
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141  (Online Only)
Jake also has experience as a facilitator for the Anxiety Recovery Centre’s LGBTQIA+ support groups program and the 'ESTEEM' program for same-sex attracted men.
Jake (He/Him) aims to work collaboratively and compassionately with his clients, believing that a strong and honest therapeutic relationship is the best predictor of success in therapy. While making the choice to engage in therapy can sometimes feel confronting, Jake always works to create a safe and comfortable space for his clients to better connect with their authentic selves. Jake has a particular interest in working with adults and youth experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, interpersonal and relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and difficulties with self-worth/self-esteem.
Jake also has experience as a facilitator for the Anxiety Recovery Centre’s LGBTQIA+ support groups program and the 'ESTEEM' program for same-sex attracted men.
Jake (He/Him) aims to work collaboratively and compassionately with his clients, believing that a strong and honest therapeutic relationship is the best predictor of success in therapy. While making the choice to engage in therapy can sometimes feel confronting, Jake always works to create a safe and comfortable space for his clients to better connect with their authentic selves. Jake has a particular interest in working with adults and youth experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, interpersonal and relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and difficulties with self-worth/self-esteem.
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Photo of Leigh Davis Elliott, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Leigh Davis Elliott
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Carlton, VIC 3053
I'm a clinical psychologist working with anxiety, depression, stress, emotional / behavioural dysregulation, shame and trauma. As a queer man, I have a passion for working with the LGBTIQA+ community. I work to create a shared understanding of their current patterns of behaviour and experiences from an attachment, trauma-informed, and developmental lens to heal the parts of themselves that get in the way of them living a meaningful life. I work with people to build up the healthy parts of themselves, learn to ask for their needs to be met and to cope with the difficulties that inevitably arise as part of life and relationships.
I'm a clinical psychologist working with anxiety, depression, stress, emotional / behavioural dysregulation, shame and trauma. As a queer man, I have a passion for working with the LGBTIQA+ community. I work to create a shared understanding of their current patterns of behaviour and experiences from an attachment, trauma-informed, and developmental lens to heal the parts of themselves that get in the way of them living a meaningful life. I work with people to build up the healthy parts of themselves, learn to ask for their needs to be met and to cope with the difficulties that inevitably arise as part of life and relationships.
(03) 7003 2812 View (03) 7003 2812
Photo of Tahlia Blow - Grow Gently Couselling, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grow Gently Couselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VIC 3121
I have a Social Work background with experience in consultation services, child protection, family intervention, clinical mental health services, systems work, senior leadership and management. I am originally from Turrbal and Jagera country but have called Naarm home since mid-2022. My mob are Mununjali, and I am a proud Aboriginal person. I identify as queer and as a proud ADHDer. I appreciate the opportunity to work alongside the LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse communities and am committed to providing queer-affirming and neurodiversity-affirming practices that are trauma-informed and safe.
I have a Social Work background with experience in consultation services, child protection, family intervention, clinical mental health services, systems work, senior leadership and management. I am originally from Turrbal and Jagera country but have called Naarm home since mid-2022. My mob are Mununjali, and I am a proud Aboriginal person. I identify as queer and as a proud ADHDer. I appreciate the opportunity to work alongside the LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse communities and am committed to providing queer-affirming and neurodiversity-affirming practices that are trauma-informed and safe.
(03) 7003 2995 View (03) 7003 2995
Photo of Davina Morley, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Davina Morley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079  (Online Only)
I am a queer relationship therapist and registered psychologist, working with LGBTIQA+ people ( lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, questioning, asexual, and including pansexual, non-binary, and people of diverse sexuality, gender and bodies who use other words to describe themselves or do not label their sexuality or gender). I work with relationships and couples of all sexualities, genders, bodies, and non-monogamous and polyamorous structures including relationship anarchy. I understand barriers to accessing services that marginalised people face, and I try to be as safe as possible for you in therapy.
I am a queer relationship therapist and registered psychologist, working with LGBTIQA+ people ( lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, questioning, asexual, and including pansexual, non-binary, and people of diverse sexuality, gender and bodies who use other words to describe themselves or do not label their sexuality or gender). I work with relationships and couples of all sexualities, genders, bodies, and non-monogamous and polyamorous structures including relationship anarchy. I understand barriers to accessing services that marginalised people face, and I try to be as safe as possible for you in therapy.
(03) 8413 7355 View (03) 8413 7355
Photo of Dr Mike van Dijkhuizen, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Mike van Dijkhuizen
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182  (Online Only)
I am clinical psychologist and work with anxiety disorders, depression, addictions, trauma, relationships and sexuality. My therapeutic approach uses CBT, ACT and mindfulness for letting go of unhelpful thoughts, being present with difficult emotions and connecting to your values; the things that really matter to you. I am a gay man and specialise in working with LGBTQIA clients. I am also passionate about accessible and affordable health care, which is why I don’t charge excessive fees and will bulk bill clients with a Health Care Card and GP Mental Health Care Plan.
I am clinical psychologist and work with anxiety disorders, depression, addictions, trauma, relationships and sexuality. My therapeutic approach uses CBT, ACT and mindfulness for letting go of unhelpful thoughts, being present with difficult emotions and connecting to your values; the things that really matter to you. I am a gay man and specialise in working with LGBTQIA clients. I am also passionate about accessible and affordable health care, which is why I don’t charge excessive fees and will bulk bill clients with a Health Care Card and GP Mental Health Care Plan.
(02) 7804 4107 View (02) 7804 4107
Photo of Dr Coby Liew, PsychD, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr Coby Liew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsychD, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Melbourne, VIC 3003  (Online Only)
Welcome to my profile! I've dedicated my life to helping people of all ages and backgrounds navigate their way through life's challenges, and I do so with compassion, care, and empathy. I was born in Borneo, identify as gay, and have experience living in different countries and cultures. I offer more than ten years of clinical experience in counselling and psychotherapy, specialising in loss and grief, gender and sexuality, complex trauma and abuse, attachment issues, ASD, ADHD, personality disorders, relationship and intimacy issues, anger management, family conflicts, workplace bullying, and intercultural adjustment issues.
Welcome to my profile! I've dedicated my life to helping people of all ages and backgrounds navigate their way through life's challenges, and I do so with compassion, care, and empathy. I was born in Borneo, identify as gay, and have experience living in different countries and cultures. I offer more than ten years of clinical experience in counselling and psychotherapy, specialising in loss and grief, gender and sexuality, complex trauma and abuse, attachment issues, ASD, ADHD, personality disorders, relationship and intimacy issues, anger management, family conflicts, workplace bullying, and intercultural adjustment issues.
(03) 8595 5297 View (03) 8595 5297
Photo of Dr Trudy Clutterbok, PhD, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr Trudy Clutterbok
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, AMHSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
Waitlist for new clients
The people who work with me are often independent thinkers, they're bright and creative. They might also feel isolated, stuck, that there's something missing, or that they haven't yet been heard in a way that allows them to feel a bit freer to really enjoy their lives. Many would say that they feel like outsiders. The people I work with have often had seriously difficult histories. Sometimes they support someone else who suffers. I value working with others of all ages from my LGBTQ+ and GBKS (diversity in gender, body, kinship & sexuality) communities.
The people who work with me are often independent thinkers, they're bright and creative. They might also feel isolated, stuck, that there's something missing, or that they haven't yet been heard in a way that allows them to feel a bit freer to really enjoy their lives. Many would say that they feel like outsiders. The people I work with have often had seriously difficult histories. Sometimes they support someone else who suffers. I value working with others of all ages from my LGBTQ+ and GBKS (diversity in gender, body, kinship & sexuality) communities.
(03) 7003 2417 View (03) 7003 2417
Photo of Anine Cummins - Anine Cummins (they/them) - Ginger Cat Counselling, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Anine Cummins (they/them) - Ginger Cat Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’m gender non-conforming, a proud member of the LGBTIQ+ community and I’ve successfully overcome trauma.
Please note: I am a counsellor, and cannot accept mental health care plans. I provide online counselling for adults and teenagers. Everyone is welcome! I work with LGBTIQ+ clients, including trans and non-binary people, people with traumatic histories, including sexual assault and abuse, people with dissociative disorders, including DID, people with ADHD and autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out.
I’m gender non-conforming, a proud member of the LGBTIQ+ community and I’ve successfully overcome trauma.
Please note: I am a counsellor, and cannot accept mental health care plans. I provide online counselling for adults and teenagers. Everyone is welcome! I work with LGBTIQ+ clients, including trans and non-binary people, people with traumatic histories, including sexual assault and abuse, people with dissociative disorders, including DID, people with ADHD and autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out.
(03) 8338 1789 View (03) 8338 1789
Photo of Dr Amy Wallis, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Amy Wallis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Caulfield North, VIC 3161  (Online Only)
My professional skills are grounded in my lived and living experience as a queer person, with hidden disabilities, and a consumer of medical and psychological services.
I am a proudly queer psychologist working in Naarm (Melbourne) and providing telehealth psychological services to people around Australia. I am passionate about working in a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, inclusive way to support people to understand and express themselves. I use a collaborative approach combining my knowledge of evidence-based psychological concepts and strategies, and honouring the inner wisdom, resources and experiences of the people I support. When conducting adult Autism assessments, I focus on making the process a comfortable and insightful experience of self-discovery.
My professional skills are grounded in my lived and living experience as a queer person, with hidden disabilities, and a consumer of medical and psychological services.
I am a proudly queer psychologist working in Naarm (Melbourne) and providing telehealth psychological services to people around Australia. I am passionate about working in a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, inclusive way to support people to understand and express themselves. I use a collaborative approach combining my knowledge of evidence-based psychological concepts and strategies, and honouring the inner wisdom, resources and experiences of the people I support. When conducting adult Autism assessments, I focus on making the process a comfortable and insightful experience of self-discovery.
(03) 7003 2787 View (03) 7003 2787
Photo of Stacey Micallef - Sexologist + Relationship Counsellor, MC, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Stacey Micallef - Sexologist + Relationship Counsellor
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Grovedale, VIC 3216
Stacey is a certified sexologist + relationship & trauma counsellor who works with individuals and those in relationships to have healthy intimate connections with others or self. She can help you explore intimacy, pleasure, sexual difficulties and help you find more enjoyment from sex. She aims to give balanced advice in a non-judgemental setting. As an LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent friendly and non-touch therapist, Stacey creates a safe space where you can enhance your relationships and make your sex life more fulfilling. Poly and NM relationships are welcome. Stacey works online and in-person in Geelong, Victoria.
Stacey is a certified sexologist + relationship & trauma counsellor who works with individuals and those in relationships to have healthy intimate connections with others or self. She can help you explore intimacy, pleasure, sexual difficulties and help you find more enjoyment from sex. She aims to give balanced advice in a non-judgemental setting. As an LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent friendly and non-touch therapist, Stacey creates a safe space where you can enhance your relationships and make your sex life more fulfilling. Poly and NM relationships are welcome. Stacey works online and in-person in Geelong, Victoria.
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Photo of Veronica Gomez, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Veronica Gomez
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Fitzroy, VIC 3065  (Online Only)
On a personal note, I'm a Queer, Neurodivergent Latinx mum of two and have first-hand experience of the challenges and superpowers that come with being Queer and Neurospicey! Reach out to our team and lets start the process to positive therapy journey.
Hi, Im Veronica (She/Her), a bubbly, queer and neurodivergent psychologist who has been working as a psychologist since 2010 and prides myself on my ability and experience with working with people from all walks of life and corners of the world. I have a passion for working with people who are of the LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent, First Nations communities, and those who are Culturally and Linguistically Diverse. My strengths are helping clients feel safe to be themselves and to share their story, knowing they will be accepted for who they are. My approach is very down to earth, empathetic and warm.
On a personal note, I'm a Queer, Neurodivergent Latinx mum of two and have first-hand experience of the challenges and superpowers that come with being Queer and Neurospicey! Reach out to our team and lets start the process to positive therapy journey.
Hi, Im Veronica (She/Her), a bubbly, queer and neurodivergent psychologist who has been working as a psychologist since 2010 and prides myself on my ability and experience with working with people from all walks of life and corners of the world. I have a passion for working with people who are of the LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent, First Nations communities, and those who are Culturally and Linguistically Diverse. My strengths are helping clients feel safe to be themselves and to share their story, knowing they will be accepted for who they are. My approach is very down to earth, empathetic and warm.
(02) 9100 0832 View (02) 9100 0832
Photo of David Eckel, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Eckel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3004
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there I'm David. I'm a mental health social worker with over twenty years' experience counselling adults in various settings. I currently work with adults (in person or via telehealth) who need some support with relationship and attachment challenges, stress, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, PTSD, Complex PTSD, substance use issues and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Hi there I'm David. I'm a mental health social worker with over twenty years' experience counselling adults in various settings. I currently work with adults (in person or via telehealth) who need some support with relationship and attachment challenges, stress, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, PTSD, Complex PTSD, substance use issues and LGBTQIA+ issues.
(03) 7003 2274 View (03) 7003 2274
Photo of Dettie Onus Browne, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dettie Onus Browne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northcote, VIC 3070
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 Jamie Goodison - Inner Quest Counselling Psychotherapy, MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Jamie Goodison - Inner Quest Counselling Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Diamond Creek, VIC 3089
With lived experience, I offer diverse support including eco-therapy, ACT/CBT, LGBTQ-affirmative therapy, DBT-informed counselling, mindfulness, and more.
I offer a supportive, inclusive approach to therapy that respects your unique identity. My services are diverse and client-centered, aimed at improving mental well-being, strengthening relationships, and finding purpose in life. Together, we can work on your self-discovery and growth. Let's start this empowering journey.
With lived experience, I offer diverse support including eco-therapy, ACT/CBT, LGBTQ-affirmative therapy, DBT-informed counselling, mindfulness, and more.
I offer a supportive, inclusive approach to therapy that respects your unique identity. My services are diverse and client-centered, aimed at improving mental well-being, strengthening relationships, and finding purpose in life. Together, we can work on your self-discovery and growth. Let's start this empowering journey.
(03) 8400 0535 View (03) 8400 0535

See more therapy options for Warburton

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.