LGBTQ+ Affirming Psychologists and Therapists in Dee Why, NSW

Naomi Kerr
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone needs support at times. I provide outcomes-focused counselling for individuals and couples wanting change in their lives or relationships. My areas of focus include: mental health support, trauma and PTSD, infertility and family planning, self-esteem, and managing life and work stress. I offer talk therapy (emotion-focused therapy, CBT, etc) as well as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapy.
Everyone needs support at times. I provide outcomes-focused counselling for individuals and couples wanting change in their lives or relationships. My areas of focus include: mental health support, trauma and PTSD, infertility and family planning, self-esteem, and managing life and work stress. I offer talk therapy (emotion-focused therapy, CBT, etc) as well as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapy.
(02) 9100 0260 View (02) 9100 0260
Daniela Cristofaro
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
Dee Why, NSW 2099
Some people come to me because something around sex, intimacy or relationships has become difficult. Perhaps desire has changed, the body shuts down, or familiar patterns of closeness, pressure and withdrawal keep repeating. Others come because they are drawn to Somatic Therapy for anxiety, sensitivity and overwhelm, shame or self-criticism, attachment / trauma-related patterns, or feeling stuck despite understanding themselves well. Together, we can gently explore what is happening beneath the surface, without judgement or assuming there is something wrong with you.
Some people come to me because something around sex, intimacy or relationships has become difficult. Perhaps desire has changed, the body shuts down, or familiar patterns of closeness, pressure and withdrawal keep repeating. Others come because they are drawn to Somatic Therapy for anxiety, sensitivity and overwhelm, shame or self-criticism, attachment / trauma-related patterns, or feeling stuck despite understanding themselves well. Together, we can gently explore what is happening beneath the surface, without judgement or assuming there is something wrong with you.
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Tori McCarthy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Dee Why, NSW 2099
I have extensive experience working in the field of Addiction and Trauma and believe whole heartedly that recovery is possible. I am a creative therapist who works intuitively and experimentally. I believe in treating the underlying causes not just the symptoms. I have held various senior clinical roles and continue to work as a Senior therapist at South Pacific Private where I run the sex and love addiction intensive programs. Working with Addiction and intimacy related disorders is an area I am passionate about as I love witnessing the profound change that can occur when we get vulnerable, trust and become our authentic selves.
I have extensive experience working in the field of Addiction and Trauma and believe whole heartedly that recovery is possible. I am a creative therapist who works intuitively and experimentally. I believe in treating the underlying causes not just the symptoms. I have held various senior clinical roles and continue to work as a Senior therapist at South Pacific Private where I run the sex and love addiction intensive programs. Working with Addiction and intimacy related disorders is an area I am passionate about as I love witnessing the profound change that can occur when we get vulnerable, trust and become our authentic selves.
(02) 8403 1332 View (02) 8403 1332
Hayley Bilski
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Dee Why, NSW 2099
I grew up in and graduated in South Africa. After graduating I spent a number of years working in the UK and South Africa, before moving to Australia. I have a private practice on Sydney's north shore and northern beaches, specialising in adolescents and adults, experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem, peer relationship issues, gender identity challenges, confusing life choices, career needs, bullying and school concerns. I am an advanced Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, a member of the Australian Association of Social Workers and a supervisor for other allied health professionals.
I grew up in and graduated in South Africa. After graduating I spent a number of years working in the UK and South Africa, before moving to Australia. I have a private practice on Sydney's north shore and northern beaches, specialising in adolescents and adults, experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem, peer relationship issues, gender identity challenges, confusing life choices, career needs, bullying and school concerns. I am an advanced Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, a member of the Australian Association of Social Workers and a supervisor for other allied health professionals.
(02) 9159 6193 View (02) 9159 6193
Duda Baldwin
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you feel exhausted from arguments with your partner? Do you feel misunderstood and criticised for who you are? Or you're avoiding each other, feeling like resentful strangers? Maybe one of you had an affair or lied and you're unsure how to trust again? These are common issues couples experience when they seek out sessions with me. I also help couples with issues with in-laws, parenting, stepfamilies stresses and accompanied feelings of isolations, bringing relevant lived experience where needed. I also work with couples navigating separation, co-parenting and those needing to find clarity if they want to stay or leave.
Do you feel exhausted from arguments with your partner? Do you feel misunderstood and criticised for who you are? Or you're avoiding each other, feeling like resentful strangers? Maybe one of you had an affair or lied and you're unsure how to trust again? These are common issues couples experience when they seek out sessions with me. I also help couples with issues with in-laws, parenting, stepfamilies stresses and accompanied feelings of isolations, bringing relevant lived experience where needed. I also work with couples navigating separation, co-parenting and those needing to find clarity if they want to stay or leave.
(02) 8000 1169 View (02) 8000 1169
Andrea Haas
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a highly-skilled relationship psychologist & sex therapist with over 20 years of professional experience seeing clients in private practice. I support couples through relationship issues, infidelity, lack of intimacy and communication problems. I look at the psychological side of sexual difficulties such as low libido, orgasm difficulties, physical pain during sex, performance anxiety or ejaculation problems. I work with complex trauma using a trauma-informed approach to process sexual, physical and emotional abuse. I aim to create safety, grounding and a centred connection within which consolidates your healing.
I am a highly-skilled relationship psychologist & sex therapist with over 20 years of professional experience seeing clients in private practice. I support couples through relationship issues, infidelity, lack of intimacy and communication problems. I look at the psychological side of sexual difficulties such as low libido, orgasm difficulties, physical pain during sex, performance anxiety or ejaculation problems. I work with complex trauma using a trauma-informed approach to process sexual, physical and emotional abuse. I aim to create safety, grounding and a centred connection within which consolidates your healing.
(02) 9538 7934 View (02) 9538 7934
HERE4U Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My goal is to reduce the stigma around help seeking. I help people feel heard and validated by addressing issues like anxiety, depression, self-esteem, healing the inner child and attachment wounds, practising effective communication skills, changing careers and more. As a culturally and linguistically diverse therapist, I have a unique understanding of the challenges and difficulties many families face in Australia, I am here to help, guide and support. For your convenience I offer flexible hours (including evening and weekends) over video or phone. My approach is a mix of science and creativity.
My goal is to reduce the stigma around help seeking. I help people feel heard and validated by addressing issues like anxiety, depression, self-esteem, healing the inner child and attachment wounds, practising effective communication skills, changing careers and more. As a culturally and linguistically diverse therapist, I have a unique understanding of the challenges and difficulties many families face in Australia, I am here to help, guide and support. For your convenience I offer flexible hours (including evening and weekends) over video or phone. My approach is a mix of science and creativity.
(02) 8403 1338 View (02) 8403 1338
Erin Kelso
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Let's debunk the myth that therapy has to be doom and gloom. In fact, I want you to genuinely look forward to our sessions. As a Clinical psychologist, my focus is on creating an environment where you feel at ease sharing the highs, lows, and everything in between. Together, we will connect dots you may not have realised were there, all with the aim of sparking positive behavioural changes in your life.
Let's debunk the myth that therapy has to be doom and gloom. In fact, I want you to genuinely look forward to our sessions. As a Clinical psychologist, my focus is on creating an environment where you feel at ease sharing the highs, lows, and everything in between. Together, we will connect dots you may not have realised were there, all with the aim of sparking positive behavioural changes in your life.
(02) 8403 1271 View (02) 8403 1271
Ilona Zaleska
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Life can feel heavy when past trauma, anxiety, or shame keep you stuck in painful patterns. Therapeutically, I help the brain and body process overwhelming emotions, intrusive memories, and the impact of difficult relationships. My approach is trauma-informed, compassionate, and collaborative — creating a safe space where you feel understood and not judged. Together we work not only to ease symptoms but to reconnect with yourself, build resilience, and move towards a more meaningful life. I have a special interest in supporting those affected by childhood adversity, relational trauma, and the lasting imprints of abuse or neglect.
Life can feel heavy when past trauma, anxiety, or shame keep you stuck in painful patterns. Therapeutically, I help the brain and body process overwhelming emotions, intrusive memories, and the impact of difficult relationships. My approach is trauma-informed, compassionate, and collaborative — creating a safe space where you feel understood and not judged. Together we work not only to ease symptoms but to reconnect with yourself, build resilience, and move towards a more meaningful life. I have a special interest in supporting those affected by childhood adversity, relational trauma, and the lasting imprints of abuse or neglect.
(02) 8403 1513 View (02) 8403 1513
Molly Brennan
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
I am a warm and compassionate psychotherapist / counsellor passionate about supporting people through life’s challenges. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and supported at your own pace. As an integrative counsellor, I tailor therapy using approaches such as CBT, ACT, and play therapy to suit your needs. Originally from Ireland, I’ve worked across Ireland, the UK, and Australia, and understand the challenges of life transitions, including living abroad. I work with children, young people, and adults across a range of issues, and offer a free 15-minute introductory call.
I am a warm and compassionate psychotherapist / counsellor passionate about supporting people through life’s challenges. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and supported at your own pace. As an integrative counsellor, I tailor therapy using approaches such as CBT, ACT, and play therapy to suit your needs. Originally from Ireland, I’ve worked across Ireland, the UK, and Australia, and understand the challenges of life transitions, including living abroad. I work with children, young people, and adults across a range of issues, and offer a free 15-minute introductory call.
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Colin Aston
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a Registered Psychologist who completed the Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Psychology at the University of New England. I am experienced providing support to adolescent and adult clients with a variety of backgrounds and challenges. My therapeutic approach is warm and collaborative, with a focus on each client’s unique values to support personal growth and change. I utilise evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I am a Registered Psychologist who completed the Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Psychology at the University of New England. I am experienced providing support to adolescent and adult clients with a variety of backgrounds and challenges. My therapeutic approach is warm and collaborative, with a focus on each client’s unique values to support personal growth and change. I utilise evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(02) 4703 7185 View (02) 4703 7185

More Therapists Nearby

Be Yourself Professional Wellbeing
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sydney, NSW 2000
I am Su (Xufeng Su), 我会说普通话和广东话, the owner and registered psychologist of the clinic. I am committed to provide genuine person-centered and strength-based therapy and providing a space that is safe, welcoming and free from judgements or stigma. I aim to assist and support clients in exploring their unique values and identities. Through my own lived experience, I have a deep understanding of the imbalance and distress we can feel when we could not live our authentic lives. When supporting my clients – instead of assuming the expert position – I partner with them, exploring their potential and understanding who they want to be.
I am Su (Xufeng Su), 我会说普通话和广东话, the owner and registered psychologist of the clinic. I am committed to provide genuine person-centered and strength-based therapy and providing a space that is safe, welcoming and free from judgements or stigma. I aim to assist and support clients in exploring their unique values and identities. Through my own lived experience, I have a deep understanding of the imbalance and distress we can feel when we could not live our authentic lives. When supporting my clients – instead of assuming the expert position – I partner with them, exploring their potential and understanding who they want to be.
0423 707 135 View 0423 707 135
Jay Runds
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
I'm Jay (they/them), a transmasculine non-binary counselor with a focus on supporting people in the LGBTIQ+ community, neurodivergent folk, and others who feel like their identity or lifestyle is stigmatised or misunderstood. I work with issues of identity, meaning, and purpose and feelings of stuckness. Maybe your life doesn't feel quite right despite (or maybe especially) it looking good on paper, or old issues are starting to bubble up now. I believe that everyone deserves to have a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space to work through the issues that have brought them into therapy - however long that may take.
I'm Jay (they/them), a transmasculine non-binary counselor with a focus on supporting people in the LGBTIQ+ community, neurodivergent folk, and others who feel like their identity or lifestyle is stigmatised or misunderstood. I work with issues of identity, meaning, and purpose and feelings of stuckness. Maybe your life doesn't feel quite right despite (or maybe especially) it looking good on paper, or old issues are starting to bubble up now. I believe that everyone deserves to have a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space to work through the issues that have brought them into therapy - however long that may take.
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Core Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Jaz, a Clinical Counsellor offering trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming and neuroaffirming support for adults across Australia.
When the world feels uncertain or overwhelming, I offer a space to make meaning of your experiences, reconnect with your own voice, and explore what it means to build a life that feels meaningful, values-led, and your own.
Hi, I’m Jaz, a Clinical Counsellor offering trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming and neuroaffirming support for adults across Australia.
When the world feels uncertain or overwhelming, I offer a space to make meaning of your experiences, reconnect with your own voice, and explore what it means to build a life that feels meaningful, values-led, and your own.
(03) 7003 2361 View (03) 7003 2361
Lit McCarthy
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Booker Bay, NSW 2257
I warmly welcome neurodivergent and disabled people - including gifted, twice-exceptional, and multiply neurodivergent people - LGBTIQA+ including trans and non-binary people, First Nations people, people of colour, young people 16+, older adults, those living with dementia, and people at end of life. My clients often come feeling unseen, overwhelmed, or stuck, and are looking for something beyond standard talk therapy. I offer a gentle, neuroaffirming space that honours how you think, feel, create, and move through the world. The work is also assisted by Charlie the dog, who is available for pats during in person sessions :)
I warmly welcome neurodivergent and disabled people - including gifted, twice-exceptional, and multiply neurodivergent people - LGBTIQA+ including trans and non-binary people, First Nations people, people of colour, young people 16+, older adults, those living with dementia, and people at end of life. My clients often come feeling unseen, overwhelmed, or stuck, and are looking for something beyond standard talk therapy. I offer a gentle, neuroaffirming space that honours how you think, feel, create, and move through the world. The work is also assisted by Charlie the dog, who is available for pats during in person sessions :)
(02) 4307 6381 View (02) 4307 6381
Stonewater Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Samuel (He/They/She/Any) and I'm a non-binary/genderfluid Arts Psychotherapist. In life I have used the creative arts as a way of understanding, listening to and responding to my experiences and inner conflicts. I’m passionate about integrating our inner and outer selves and believe in the value the arts offer in encountering resources and parts of ourselves which aren’t accessed in normal daily life. I offer a gentle, non-judgemental and inclusive therapeutic space for you to reveal yourself as we explore struggles, hopes and what growth and resolution looks like for you at this time.
Hi, I'm Samuel (He/They/She/Any) and I'm a non-binary/genderfluid Arts Psychotherapist. In life I have used the creative arts as a way of understanding, listening to and responding to my experiences and inner conflicts. I’m passionate about integrating our inner and outer selves and believe in the value the arts offer in encountering resources and parts of ourselves which aren’t accessed in normal daily life. I offer a gentle, non-judgemental and inclusive therapeutic space for you to reveal yourself as we explore struggles, hopes and what growth and resolution looks like for you at this time.
(03) 8203 5271 View (03) 8203 5271
Eden Brown
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor with a PACFA‑accredited Master's degree in Gestalt Therapy. I hold certification in trauma-informed care, decolonising mental health and family violence (identification and assessment). I provide a confidential, judgement free space for people experiencing relationship strain, work‑related stress or burnout, intergenerational patterns, anxiety, depression, loss and grief, trauma-related symptoms, and those feeling a sense of stuck-ness in their life. My practice is geared toward participants motivated to engage actively in the therapy process for focused, results‑oriented support.
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor with a PACFA‑accredited Master's degree in Gestalt Therapy. I hold certification in trauma-informed care, decolonising mental health and family violence (identification and assessment). I provide a confidential, judgement free space for people experiencing relationship strain, work‑related stress or burnout, intergenerational patterns, anxiety, depression, loss and grief, trauma-related symptoms, and those feeling a sense of stuck-ness in their life. My practice is geared toward participants motivated to engage actively in the therapy process for focused, results‑oriented support.
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Darcy Watson-Russell
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Online Only
As a 'peer counsellor', I bring my own lived experience as a disabled, neurodivergent, queer and trans person to sessions to build trust and empathy.
I approach therapy as a relationship first, and I'm not afraid to be ‘in it’ alongside you - whatever that looks like for you. I've worked in counselling and peer support with LGBTIQA+ and neurodivergent adults of all ages (18-65+), and I'm especially passionate about supporting trans and gender diverse people navigating grief and loss, suicidality, trauma, disability and chronic illness, and autism and other experiences of neurodivergence.
As a 'peer counsellor', I bring my own lived experience as a disabled, neurodivergent, queer and trans person to sessions to build trust and empathy.
I approach therapy as a relationship first, and I'm not afraid to be ‘in it’ alongside you - whatever that looks like for you. I've worked in counselling and peer support with LGBTIQA+ and neurodivergent adults of all ages (18-65+), and I'm especially passionate about supporting trans and gender diverse people navigating grief and loss, suicidality, trauma, disability and chronic illness, and autism and other experiences of neurodivergence.
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Dae Bailey
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Dae is a Registered Psychologist who is passionate about working with people who have felt ‘different’ their whole lives. They support people to heal from trauma, live more authentic lives, and fully embrace their identities. Dae holds space with curiosity and compassion, without judgement, and with the creativity to do things differently. Dae works with complex trauma, gender and sexuality, neurodivergence, disability, dissociation, diverse relationships, and the intersection of these, in a radically affirming way.
Dae is a Registered Psychologist who is passionate about working with people who have felt ‘different’ their whole lives. They support people to heal from trauma, live more authentic lives, and fully embrace their identities. Dae holds space with curiosity and compassion, without judgement, and with the creativity to do things differently. Dae works with complex trauma, gender and sexuality, neurodivergence, disability, dissociation, diverse relationships, and the intersection of these, in a radically affirming way.
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Zave Leo
Counsellor
Serves Area
There is nothing that unites us more than the human experience, yet the stigma around mental health still impacts us. I see the common threads that connect us every day, even when we think we’re alone. We are relational beings, and shame dies when stories are told in safe spaces. If 1:1 therapy scares you or feels too traditional and formal, I completely understand. I love working with people, and know it’s a privilege to hear stories of all kinds and be with people in their vulnerability. I’m committed to showing up in the present moment with you, and figuring it out together. Real life, done with a real person alongside you.
There is nothing that unites us more than the human experience, yet the stigma around mental health still impacts us. I see the common threads that connect us every day, even when we think we’re alone. We are relational beings, and shame dies when stories are told in safe spaces. If 1:1 therapy scares you or feels too traditional and formal, I completely understand. I love working with people, and know it’s a privilege to hear stories of all kinds and be with people in their vulnerability. I’m committed to showing up in the present moment with you, and figuring it out together. Real life, done with a real person alongside you.
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LGBTQ+ Therapists
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.