LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Cessnock, NSW

Photo of Dr Michael Walton, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Michael Walton
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist in private practice. I work collaboratively with clients, value their lived experience, and provide a safe and supportive space for clients to discuss and help them to resolve their concerns. A range of evidence-based therapies are used to assist clients to resolve their difficulties and create meaningful life transitions and relationships. I work mostly with adults across their developmental life-span. Clients may see me either in person or by telehealth, including interstate. Specialising in mens' mental health, trauma and mood disorders. Everyone deserves to live their best life. Michael.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist in private practice. I work collaboratively with clients, value their lived experience, and provide a safe and supportive space for clients to discuss and help them to resolve their concerns. A range of evidence-based therapies are used to assist clients to resolve their difficulties and create meaningful life transitions and relationships. I work mostly with adults across their developmental life-span. Clients may see me either in person or by telehealth, including interstate. Specialising in mens' mental health, trauma and mood disorders. Everyone deserves to live their best life. Michael.
(02) 4058 3033 View (02) 4058 3033
Photo of Mel Eden - Hunter Valley Walk and Talk Therapy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Hunter Valley Walk and Talk Therapy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I support women in mid-life to find a new way through all the hard feelings and experiences that keep showing up. Maybe you've been on a quest for self improvement and greater self understanding. You've read the books, joined the groups, listened to the podcasts—you can “let them” like a pro (or at least wish you could). But deep down, something still feels off. Relationships aren't working, you struggle to express yourself and the weight of old wounds, self-doubt, and a quiet, unnameable pain lingers, leaving you wondering if this is just your lot in life.
I support women in mid-life to find a new way through all the hard feelings and experiences that keep showing up. Maybe you've been on a quest for self improvement and greater self understanding. You've read the books, joined the groups, listened to the podcasts—you can “let them” like a pro (or at least wish you could). But deep down, something still feels off. Relationships aren't working, you struggle to express yourself and the weight of old wounds, self-doubt, and a quiet, unnameable pain lingers, leaving you wondering if this is just your lot in life.
(02) 4012 4414 View (02) 4012 4414
Photo of Sally Hainey - Soulful Psychotherapy , Psychotherapist, MA
Soulful Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Cessnock, NSW 2325
Trauma and EMDR specialist; helping clients to overcome painful memories preventing them from living a full and happy life. Many clients tell me they are amazed how EMDR has transferred their lives, and the results they have achieved.
Trauma and EMDR specialist; helping clients to overcome painful memories preventing them from living a full and happy life. Many clients tell me they are amazed how EMDR has transferred their lives, and the results they have achieved.
(02) 4307 5008 View (02) 4307 5008
Photo of Barbara Tobin - Olaga Therapeutic Support: Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Olaga Therapeutic Support: Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
At Olaga Therapeutic Support, we will see you, and we will hear you, regardless of your background and circumstances. We work with adults, teens and children by providing age appropriate, person-centred counselling and psychotherapy. We welcome all to our space and encourage those from multicultural, marginalised and minority communities to contact us.
At Olaga Therapeutic Support, we will see you, and we will hear you, regardless of your background and circumstances. We work with adults, teens and children by providing age appropriate, person-centred counselling and psychotherapy. We welcome all to our space and encourage those from multicultural, marginalised and minority communities to contact us.
(02) 4082 6626 View (02) 4082 6626
Photo of Eliza Rooney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Eliza Rooney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am passionate about working collaboratively with people through processes of change that improve their overall health and wellness so that they can live a fulfilling, self-directed life and strive to reach their full potential. My counselling style is gentle, empathetic and non-judgmental that provides an authentic, comfortable space for the people I support. I value really getting to know people and their life journeys and forming a solid relationship with them so they feel comfortable to talk freely with me about their concerns and struggles. I am here to listen, be present, walk alongside and support you towards your goals.
I am passionate about working collaboratively with people through processes of change that improve their overall health and wellness so that they can live a fulfilling, self-directed life and strive to reach their full potential. My counselling style is gentle, empathetic and non-judgmental that provides an authentic, comfortable space for the people I support. I value really getting to know people and their life journeys and forming a solid relationship with them so they feel comfortable to talk freely with me about their concerns and struggles. I am here to listen, be present, walk alongside and support you towards your goals.
(02) 4012 2356 View (02) 4012 2356

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nikki Strong, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Nikki Strong
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a queer and neurodivergent person, my priority is always to provide safe, judgement-free & inclusive counselling for everyone.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed or just need to talk? I'm here to listen. Whether you're navigating big life changes, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, or seeking better self care or healthy boundaries with others, I'm here to support you. I provide flexible telehealth counselling services (phone or Zoom), offering a safe space to explore what's been on your mind. I'm especially passionate about supporting my clients to create lives that work with their neurodivergence rather than against it. Together, we'll create practical strategies that make sense for your life.
As a queer and neurodivergent person, my priority is always to provide safe, judgement-free & inclusive counselling for everyone.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed or just need to talk? I'm here to listen. Whether you're navigating big life changes, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, or seeking better self care or healthy boundaries with others, I'm here to support you. I provide flexible telehealth counselling services (phone or Zoom), offering a safe space to explore what's been on your mind. I'm especially passionate about supporting my clients to create lives that work with their neurodivergence rather than against it. Together, we'll create practical strategies that make sense for your life.
(02) 4077 2979 View (02) 4077 2979
Photo of Liberty Hills, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Liberty Hills
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With five years of experience, they work with people from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, neurodivergent people, youth, those with disabilities, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Using a person-centred approach, Liberty tailors each session to the client's unique needs, drawing from therapeutic modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Creative Arts Therapy, attachment based and Narrative Therapy.
With five years of experience, they work with people from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, neurodivergent people, youth, those with disabilities, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Using a person-centred approach, Liberty tailors each session to the client's unique needs, drawing from therapeutic modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Creative Arts Therapy, attachment based and Narrative Therapy.
(08) 6171 2080 View (08) 6171 2080
Photo of Linda Harrison, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Linda Harrison
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Online Only
NOTE: My books have re-opened and I have a few spots available. Description: Are you feeling low, anxious, sad, burnt out or struggling to concentrate and focus? I specialise in Adult ADHD, gender/sexual identity, depression, anxiety, hormones/ menopause and stresses of life, work and relationships. I offer telehealth therapy to clients in rural, regional and metro areas. I believe that a positive relationship is key to change for clients. Importantly, therapy should be engaging and even enjoyable! I trust that with the right strategies, everyone can thrive, and it's my privilege to help them on their path to a more contented life.
NOTE: My books have re-opened and I have a few spots available. Description: Are you feeling low, anxious, sad, burnt out or struggling to concentrate and focus? I specialise in Adult ADHD, gender/sexual identity, depression, anxiety, hormones/ menopause and stresses of life, work and relationships. I offer telehealth therapy to clients in rural, regional and metro areas. I believe that a positive relationship is key to change for clients. Importantly, therapy should be engaging and even enjoyable! I trust that with the right strategies, everyone can thrive, and it's my privilege to help them on their path to a more contented life.
(02) 8503 8915 View (02) 8503 8915
Photo of Toby Clark, Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Toby Clark
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
With 16 years of experience as a mental health nurse across diverse settings, I bring a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health. Having completed my Master's in the Conversational Model of Therapy has deepened my belief in the power of therapeutic conversation as a path to healing, especially from trauma. I am passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where we can explore your experiences and work together towards healing. If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey, I invite you to connect with me. Let's work together to help you find peace and growth.
With 16 years of experience as a mental health nurse across diverse settings, I bring a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health. Having completed my Master's in the Conversational Model of Therapy has deepened my belief in the power of therapeutic conversation as a path to healing, especially from trauma. I am passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where we can explore your experiences and work together towards healing. If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey, I invite you to connect with me. Let's work together to help you find peace and growth.
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Photo of Dennis Kaip, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Dennis Kaip
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gosford, NSW 2250
You might be feeling stuck, burnt out, or overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, depression, addiction, or trauma. Maybe you’ve been carrying things for too long, and it’s starting to feel like too much. For over two decades, I’ve supported young people and adults across the world through similar experiences as well as other mental health difficulties, disability, and complex life circumstances, in community, hospital, and justice settings. My therapeutic approach is centred on you, grounded in acceptance and without judgment. Together, we’ll explore your strengths and build your expertise in your own life by discovering what truly works.
You might be feeling stuck, burnt out, or overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, depression, addiction, or trauma. Maybe you’ve been carrying things for too long, and it’s starting to feel like too much. For over two decades, I’ve supported young people and adults across the world through similar experiences as well as other mental health difficulties, disability, and complex life circumstances, in community, hospital, and justice settings. My therapeutic approach is centred on you, grounded in acceptance and without judgment. Together, we’ll explore your strengths and build your expertise in your own life by discovering what truly works.
(02) 4306 7694 View (02) 4306 7694
Photo of Xavier King, Counsellor
Xavier King
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I work with individuals from all backgrounds, addressing challenges such as trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. My approach is non-judgmental, holistic, and compassionate, providing a safe space for exploration and healing. Together, we can build emotional resilience, enhance self-awareness, and develop effective coping strategies to navigate life’s challenges and create a fulfilling and balanced life for everyone.
I work with individuals from all backgrounds, addressing challenges such as trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. My approach is non-judgmental, holistic, and compassionate, providing a safe space for exploration and healing. Together, we can build emotional resilience, enhance self-awareness, and develop effective coping strategies to navigate life’s challenges and create a fulfilling and balanced life for everyone.
(02) 5941 6436 View (02) 5941 6436
Photo of Allira Sazdanoff, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Allira Sazdanoff
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a psychologist, with an approach to therapy that is person-centred and holistic in nature, taking into account the many aspects of the human experience and the influences that shape us. I have experience in assessing and providing therapeutic services to adolescents and adults with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have a special interest in working with complex trauma and dissociation, anxiety, and attachment difficulties. I strive to create safety for individuals to explore their vulnerabilities and am passionate about supporting clients to reduce suffering, to live authentically, and achieve their goals.
I am a psychologist, with an approach to therapy that is person-centred and holistic in nature, taking into account the many aspects of the human experience and the influences that shape us. I have experience in assessing and providing therapeutic services to adolescents and adults with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have a special interest in working with complex trauma and dissociation, anxiety, and attachment difficulties. I strive to create safety for individuals to explore their vulnerabilities and am passionate about supporting clients to reduce suffering, to live authentically, and achieve their goals.
(02) 4049 4035 View (02) 4049 4035
Photo of Phoebe Talbot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Phoebe Talbot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Pokolbin, NSW 2320
If you're feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, or past trauma, you're not alone. Taking the first step toward change can be difficult, but it’s a powerful move toward healing and growth. I’m here to help you work through these challenges and explore practical strategies to improve your self-esteem, heal from past wounds, and gain clarity in your personal and professional life. If you're ready to create lasting change, build confidence, and live more authentically, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, or past trauma, you're not alone. Taking the first step toward change can be difficult, but it’s a powerful move toward healing and growth. I’m here to help you work through these challenges and explore practical strategies to improve your self-esteem, heal from past wounds, and gain clarity in your personal and professional life. If you're ready to create lasting change, build confidence, and live more authentically, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
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Photo of Sally Carlisle, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sally Carlisle
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a compassionate, relatable and non judgemental therapist. I love the process of helping people to understand and overcome the complexities and challenges they face in their daily lives. I have over 30 years experience working as a mental health practitioner and psychotherapist, and 10 years experience as a meditation teacher, mindfulness practitioner and practising buddhist. I understand that every person is unique and requires a personalised approach to healing. Whatever changes or problems you are navigating, my priority is to create a warm and open space for you to share and work through your experiences.
I am a compassionate, relatable and non judgemental therapist. I love the process of helping people to understand and overcome the complexities and challenges they face in their daily lives. I have over 30 years experience working as a mental health practitioner and psychotherapist, and 10 years experience as a meditation teacher, mindfulness practitioner and practising buddhist. I understand that every person is unique and requires a personalised approach to healing. Whatever changes or problems you are navigating, my priority is to create a warm and open space for you to share and work through your experiences.
(02) 8203 8733 View (02) 8203 8733
Photo of Sarah James, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Sarah James
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Charlestown, NSW 2290
Sarah James is an empathetic and compassionate Psychologist who is committed to supporting individuals build upon their strengths through adversity. She places the utmost importance on developing a warm and inviting therapeutic relationship to create significant change. Sarah works collaboratively with her clients, tailoring therapy to meet the client’s needs. Private practice has always been her passion, with particular interest in helping people to overcome their traumas, anxieties and relationship difficulties. It’s in this space that Sarah can draw on her experience in other areas to best support her clients.
Sarah James is an empathetic and compassionate Psychologist who is committed to supporting individuals build upon their strengths through adversity. She places the utmost importance on developing a warm and inviting therapeutic relationship to create significant change. Sarah works collaboratively with her clients, tailoring therapy to meet the client’s needs. Private practice has always been her passion, with particular interest in helping people to overcome their traumas, anxieties and relationship difficulties. It’s in this space that Sarah can draw on her experience in other areas to best support her clients.
(02) 4077 0825 View (02) 4077 0825
Photo of Carla Bonetti, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Carla Bonetti
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Brazilian born Psychologist, Carla Bonetti understands that we all need help at times to navigate life’s challenges. She offers help that is underpinned by years of experience working within the public and private sectors with a range of different clients addressing a number of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship and existential problems.
Brazilian born Psychologist, Carla Bonetti understands that we all need help at times to navigate life’s challenges. She offers help that is underpinned by years of experience working within the public and private sectors with a range of different clients addressing a number of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship and existential problems.
(02) 4012 4035 View (02) 4012 4035
Photo of Elizabeth (Liz) Williams, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Elizabeth (Liz) Williams
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Charlestown, NSW 2290
I am extremely passionate about my work. I appreciate the chance to build therapeutic relationships based on compassion and respect and I see therapy as two people working together to achieve your goals. I work with clients using styles of therapy that have been shown as effective and I make sure that each client's goals and experiences are valued when making a therapeutic plan. I like working with adults and teenagers and have worked with people from all walks of life including veterans and first responders, people who have experienced childhood trauma or trauma as an adult, LGBTQI people, and neurodivergent people.
I am extremely passionate about my work. I appreciate the chance to build therapeutic relationships based on compassion and respect and I see therapy as two people working together to achieve your goals. I work with clients using styles of therapy that have been shown as effective and I make sure that each client's goals and experiences are valued when making a therapeutic plan. I like working with adults and teenagers and have worked with people from all walks of life including veterans and first responders, people who have experienced childhood trauma or trauma as an adult, LGBTQI people, and neurodivergent people.
(02) 4071 2384 View (02) 4071 2384
Photo of Kirt Hines - Kirt Hines Counselling, Counsellor
Kirt Hines Counselling
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Online Only
Does this sound familiar? You have struggled with mental health and self-worth issues your whole life. You are a people pleaser & perfectionist. You missed the memo on boundaries. You have been told you are "too sensitive, too much!" You have done ALL of the things! The psychologist, mental health care plan, the healers, juice cleanses, reiki, acupuncture, fasting, read every self-help book ever written. You are a seeker, a searcher, a believer. And although it all helped, you have been constantly let down, feel like a failure as none of it gave you the RELIEF you long for. You crave peace, calm and meaning. I know. I have been you.
Does this sound familiar? You have struggled with mental health and self-worth issues your whole life. You are a people pleaser & perfectionist. You missed the memo on boundaries. You have been told you are "too sensitive, too much!" You have done ALL of the things! The psychologist, mental health care plan, the healers, juice cleanses, reiki, acupuncture, fasting, read every self-help book ever written. You are a seeker, a searcher, a believer. And although it all helped, you have been constantly let down, feel like a failure as none of it gave you the RELIEF you long for. You crave peace, calm and meaning. I know. I have been you.
(02) 4071 4013 View (02) 4071 4013
Photo of Jade May Bennett - Mindful Meadows Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mindful Meadows Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I understand that seeking help can be a brave step. I am dedicated to providing personalised care tailored to your unique needs. I utilise evidence-based practices to help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals. Through therapy, I aim to empower you with tools and strategies to navigate life's challenges effectively. Individual therapy sessions are designed to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
I understand that seeking help can be a brave step. I am dedicated to providing personalised care tailored to your unique needs. I utilise evidence-based practices to help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals. Through therapy, I aim to empower you with tools and strategies to navigate life's challenges effectively. Individual therapy sessions are designed to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
(02) 4071 2722 View (02) 4071 2722
Photo of Kath Doosey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Kath Doosey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Kath is an experienced EMDR Therapist, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Psychotherapist who started Hunter Clinical Services to create a safe and accepting space to access counselling and therapy. Kath works with adults and adolescents, and has extensive experience working survivors of trauma and violence, the adjustment to a sudden event or life change. Kath also provides therapy for depression, anxiety, relationship problems and divorce, chronic and / or neurological illness, and gender-related issues. Kath has a flexible and non-judgemental approach and will work with you through the challenges of life.
Kath is an experienced EMDR Therapist, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Psychotherapist who started Hunter Clinical Services to create a safe and accepting space to access counselling and therapy. Kath works with adults and adolescents, and has extensive experience working survivors of trauma and violence, the adjustment to a sudden event or life change. Kath also provides therapy for depression, anxiety, relationship problems and divorce, chronic and / or neurological illness, and gender-related issues. Kath has a flexible and non-judgemental approach and will work with you through the challenges of life.
(02) 4075 9805 View (02) 4075 9805
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.