LGBTQ+ Affirming Psychologists and Therapists in Stanmore, NSW

Sarah Van De Velde
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with adults who have often felt misunderstood, overwhelmed, or stuck, or who feel their needs may not have been fully met by previous support. Common difficulties include trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, substance use, anger and emotional dysregulation, relationship difficulties, ADHD and grief. I also work with people seeking to understand and change behaviours that have at times affected their relationships, safety, wellbeing, or resulted in contact with legal systems.
I work with adults who have often felt misunderstood, overwhelmed, or stuck, or who feel their needs may not have been fully met by previous support. Common difficulties include trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, substance use, anger and emotional dysregulation, relationship difficulties, ADHD and grief. I also work with people seeking to understand and change behaviours that have at times affected their relationships, safety, wellbeing, or resulted in contact with legal systems.
0400 296 502 View 0400 296 502
Amber Rules
Psychotherapist, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling with substances, gambling, smoking or other patterns that feel impossible to change? Or perhaps you're affected by someone else's addictive behaviours? As an experienced addiction support specialist, I help you understand these patterns and manage the chaos they create. Together, we'll combine practical education, evidence-based strategies, and counselling to help you make choices that align with the life you want. I also work with clients experiencing challenges including ADHD, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, and complex mental health diagnoses.
Are you struggling with substances, gambling, smoking or other patterns that feel impossible to change? Or perhaps you're affected by someone else's addictive behaviours? As an experienced addiction support specialist, I help you understand these patterns and manage the chaos they create. Together, we'll combine practical education, evidence-based strategies, and counselling to help you make choices that align with the life you want. I also work with clients experiencing challenges including ADHD, chronic pain, relationship difficulties, and complex mental health diagnoses.
(02) 9158 6064 View (02) 9158 6064
Carlie Pottington
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We all have our reasons for seeking therapy—maybe you’re feeling stuck, lonely, or need a bit of direction in life. Whatever your reason, know that it comes from a desire to make a change and improve the aspects of your life that no longer serve you. Taking that first step to reach out can be a little scary, but it’s also an incredible display of courage. I genuinely believe everyone wants to be heard, seen, and accepted just as they are. Therapy offers a welcoming space to find acceptance and lead a more fulfilling life.
We all have our reasons for seeking therapy—maybe you’re feeling stuck, lonely, or need a bit of direction in life. Whatever your reason, know that it comes from a desire to make a change and improve the aspects of your life that no longer serve you. Taking that first step to reach out can be a little scary, but it’s also an incredible display of courage. I genuinely believe everyone wants to be heard, seen, and accepted just as they are. Therapy offers a welcoming space to find acceptance and lead a more fulfilling life.
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Mackie Demirel
Counsellor, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Everyone is on a unique journey. If you're experiencing obstacles along your path, it simply means that some growth needs to be explored, and one size does not fit all. You do not need to be 'fixed' you just need to be guided truthfully. My services are tailored to meet your individual needs, incorporating evidence-based approaches, my own lived experiences and schools of thought from philosophy, spirituality and science. I am passionate and committed to providing you with a holistic and creative focus on your therapy journey.
Everyone is on a unique journey. If you're experiencing obstacles along your path, it simply means that some growth needs to be explored, and one size does not fit all. You do not need to be 'fixed' you just need to be guided truthfully. My services are tailored to meet your individual needs, incorporating evidence-based approaches, my own lived experiences and schools of thought from philosophy, spirituality and science. I am passionate and committed to providing you with a holistic and creative focus on your therapy journey.
(02) 9100 0465 View (02) 9100 0465
Jase Dimos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
My practice is LGBTQIA+ informed and welcoming to all nationalities and spiritual dispositions.
I draw on CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS to tailor evidence-based therapy to each client’s needs. I’ve worked across NSW Health, Veteran Affairs, Educational settings, and I currently run a private practice in Newtown. I support individuals exploring spirituality, belief systems, or identity, including those navigating existential uncertainty or crises of meaning.
My practice is LGBTQIA+ informed and welcoming to all nationalities and spiritual dispositions.
I draw on CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS to tailor evidence-based therapy to each client’s needs. I’ve worked across NSW Health, Veteran Affairs, Educational settings, and I currently run a private practice in Newtown. I support individuals exploring spirituality, belief systems, or identity, including those navigating existential uncertainty or crises of meaning.
0468 375 150 View 0468 375 150
Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy)
Counsellor, ACA-L3
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide therapeutic support to individuals (aged 16+) from the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, etc.) communities in the Sydney area (in-person/online) and Australia-wide (online only).
I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where individuals can explore their unique identities and experiences, offering a sense of pride and empowerment. My goal is to create a collaborative and relaxed therapeutic environment that supports individuals to develop resilience, self-awareness, and self-acceptance, and make positive change in their lives.
I provide therapeutic support to individuals (aged 16+) from the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, etc.) communities in the Sydney area (in-person/online) and Australia-wide (online only).
I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where individuals can explore their unique identities and experiences, offering a sense of pride and empowerment. My goal is to create a collaborative and relaxed therapeutic environment that supports individuals to develop resilience, self-awareness, and self-acceptance, and make positive change in their lives.
(02) 9100 0554 View (02) 9100 0554
John Ahern
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I focus on EMDR working with nightmares and distressing memories. My strengths are working with stress, trauma and relationship issues, one simple step at a time. If you have past events or stress holding you back, please feel free to reach out for help. I offer a initial consultation call too. Let's schedule a time that works for you to chat and start from there. My therapy style is to provide a supportive, warm, non judgemental space that leads to long lasting positive change for you.
I focus on EMDR working with nightmares and distressing memories. My strengths are working with stress, trauma and relationship issues, one simple step at a time. If you have past events or stress holding you back, please feel free to reach out for help. I offer a initial consultation call too. Let's schedule a time that works for you to chat and start from there. My therapy style is to provide a supportive, warm, non judgemental space that leads to long lasting positive change for you.
0410 009 554 View 0410 009 554
Paula Barham
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Stanmore, NSW 2048
I’m honoured to have been recognised as one of the top 3 therapists in Sydney in 2025, serving as the principal therapist specialising in relationship therapy. With over 20 years of experience working with diverse cultures, I strive to provide compassionate support to couples. We all lose our way at times and may need support to get back on track and reignite our relationship, no matter how long or short you have been together. My aim is not for you to keep coming to me but to empower you to develop skills—such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and emotional connection—so you can navigate life independently.
I’m honoured to have been recognised as one of the top 3 therapists in Sydney in 2025, serving as the principal therapist specialising in relationship therapy. With over 20 years of experience working with diverse cultures, I strive to provide compassionate support to couples. We all lose our way at times and may need support to get back on track and reignite our relationship, no matter how long or short you have been together. My aim is not for you to keep coming to me but to empower you to develop skills—such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and emotional connection—so you can navigate life independently.
(02) 9100 0945 View (02) 9100 0945
existential psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Stanmore, NSW 2048
I have over 19 years experience in counselling and psychology in non-government organisations, education, and private practice, providing services to adolescents, adults, and families. For anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, confusion, guilt, shame, feeling numb or disconnected in relationships, facing a major life change or bereavement, or struggling with addiction or legacy of trauma, or just how to navigate the current world, counselling can give you the space to speak freely about your experience, fears, needs, and desired solutions.
I have over 19 years experience in counselling and psychology in non-government organisations, education, and private practice, providing services to adolescents, adults, and families. For anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, confusion, guilt, shame, feeling numb or disconnected in relationships, facing a major life change or bereavement, or struggling with addiction or legacy of trauma, or just how to navigate the current world, counselling can give you the space to speak freely about your experience, fears, needs, and desired solutions.
0423 701 157 View 0423 701 157
Ann-Maree Whelan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ann-Maree is a warm and experienced psychologist, who works from a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective. She works collaboratively with clients using a wide range of evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to their individual needs. She creates a safe, non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic space where individuals can develop insight and create meaningful change in their lives and relationships. Ann-Maree has been registered since 2009, and has extensive experience in working with clients through life experiences such as neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief and loss.
Ann-Maree is a warm and experienced psychologist, who works from a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective. She works collaboratively with clients using a wide range of evidence-based treatment approaches tailored to their individual needs. She creates a safe, non-judgemental and supportive therapeutic space where individuals can develop insight and create meaningful change in their lives and relationships. Ann-Maree has been registered since 2009, and has extensive experience in working with clients through life experiences such as neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief and loss.
(02) 9158 6228 View (02) 9158 6228
Through The Woods Therapy - Fernanda Reschke
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! have a Bachelor Degree in Naturopathy and over fifteen years of experience as a movement-oriented therapist. Using the principles of Gestalt Therapy, I offer a relational and embodied approach to my clients. I started my therapeutic journey as a client so I appreciate the courage it takes to make the first step. I understand how it feels to struggle and feel stuck. I believe that therapy is about exploring, discovering, experimenting and being vulnerable. I am originally from Brazil and I am particularly inspired by other cultures and beliefs. The process of healing is a journey that looks different for everyone.
Hello! have a Bachelor Degree in Naturopathy and over fifteen years of experience as a movement-oriented therapist. Using the principles of Gestalt Therapy, I offer a relational and embodied approach to my clients. I started my therapeutic journey as a client so I appreciate the courage it takes to make the first step. I understand how it feels to struggle and feel stuck. I believe that therapy is about exploring, discovering, experimenting and being vulnerable. I am originally from Brazil and I am particularly inspired by other cultures and beliefs. The process of healing is a journey that looks different for everyone.
(02) 9100 0726 View (02) 9100 0726
Sophie Kearns
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
I have particular interest areas in supporting women, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and 20 and 30 somethings.
My hope is that counselling with me feels like a place where you can speak openly, without fear of judgement. I offer warmth, attentiveness, and genuine care, alongside thoughtful reflection and challenge where it may be helpful. Even during life’s tougher seasons, it is important to me that there is room for moments of lightness and laughter.
I have particular interest areas in supporting women, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and 20 and 30 somethings.
My hope is that counselling with me feels like a place where you can speak openly, without fear of judgement. I offer warmth, attentiveness, and genuine care, alongside thoughtful reflection and challenge where it may be helpful. Even during life’s tougher seasons, it is important to me that there is room for moments of lightness and laughter.
0416 823 664 View 0416 823 664
Patrick Watts
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Patrick works with adults experiencing a diverse range of issues, including low mood and depression, along with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety and phobias. He can also assist with adjustment and moving forward following difficult life events. He strives to bring a warm, compassionate and genuine approach to therapy, and building a supportive relationship is at the heart of his work. His experience means he is well-equipped to support those moving through the challenges of life whilst seeking to build meaning and purpose along the way.
Patrick works with adults experiencing a diverse range of issues, including low mood and depression, along with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety and phobias. He can also assist with adjustment and moving forward following difficult life events. He strives to bring a warm, compassionate and genuine approach to therapy, and building a supportive relationship is at the heart of his work. His experience means he is well-equipped to support those moving through the challenges of life whilst seeking to build meaning and purpose along the way.
(02) 9100 0206 View (02) 9100 0206
Maria Wallgren
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Online Only
Maria has experience working as a counsellor/psychotherapist, and also as a non-counsellor, with client from a broad range of backgrounds and cultures in the corporate, academic, psychiatric, and not-for-profit sector. She believes the foundation for a good therapeutic relationship is based on empathy and respect, and she relates to her clients in a non-judgmental, supportive, positive, and creative way. Maria works with individuals, is fluent in Swedish, and has an extensive interest in cultural diversity, transnational counselling ,and reducing stigma around mental illness.
Maria has experience working as a counsellor/psychotherapist, and also as a non-counsellor, with client from a broad range of backgrounds and cultures in the corporate, academic, psychiatric, and not-for-profit sector. She believes the foundation for a good therapeutic relationship is based on empathy and respect, and she relates to her clients in a non-judgmental, supportive, positive, and creative way. Maria works with individuals, is fluent in Swedish, and has an extensive interest in cultural diversity, transnational counselling ,and reducing stigma around mental illness.
(02) 9158 6625 View (02) 9158 6625
Melissa Di Leo
Psychologist, MPsych
Serves Area
I work primarily with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I believe that therapy should be a space where you feel completely seen, heard, and respected for exactly who you are. Because of this, I am deeply committed to providing a safe, affirming, and celebratory space. Throughout my career, I’ve walked alongside clients navigating a wide range of challenges. I provide individual therapy for concerns including: Anxiety, stress, and burnout; Depression and mood difficulties; Life transitions and identity exploration; Grief, loss, and trauma; School, academic, or executive functioning concerns.
I work primarily with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I believe that therapy should be a space where you feel completely seen, heard, and respected for exactly who you are. Because of this, I am deeply committed to providing a safe, affirming, and celebratory space. Throughout my career, I’ve walked alongside clients navigating a wide range of challenges. I provide individual therapy for concerns including: Anxiety, stress, and burnout; Depression and mood difficulties; Life transitions and identity exploration; Grief, loss, and trauma; School, academic, or executive functioning concerns.
(02) 8024 5971 View (02) 8024 5971
A-Okay Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a client-centred, Neuroaffirming therapist who has experience with neurodivergence, children / adolescents, trauma backgrounds (EMDR Level 1) and Worker's Compensation / CTP. I also work with couples using the Gottman methodology (Gottman Level 2).
I am a client-centred, Neuroaffirming therapist who has experience with neurodivergence, children / adolescents, trauma backgrounds (EMDR Level 1) and Worker's Compensation / CTP. I also work with couples using the Gottman methodology (Gottman Level 2).
(02) 8074 5401 View (02) 8074 5401
Patrick McGrath
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a clinical psychologist who works across a variety of presentations including anxiety and mood disorders. I hope to bring a warm, empathic and authentic approach to the issues that people bring to therapy. I recognise the investment that people make when they share their difficulties with someone and commit to therapy, and work to honour that commitment by delivering evidence based treatments, that are tailored to a persons needs. I’ve benefitted greatly from the experience of working across a range of inpatient and outpatient hospital settings.
I am a clinical psychologist who works across a variety of presentations including anxiety and mood disorders. I hope to bring a warm, empathic and authentic approach to the issues that people bring to therapy. I recognise the investment that people make when they share their difficulties with someone and commit to therapy, and work to honour that commitment by delivering evidence based treatments, that are tailored to a persons needs. I’ve benefitted greatly from the experience of working across a range of inpatient and outpatient hospital settings.
(02) 8074 5482 View (02) 8074 5482
Sara Bertolini at 'Some Therapy' EMDR, RI-EMDR
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am Registered Psychologist with a strong commitment to social justice and supporting individuals from all walks of life. I believe therapy should be inclusive, culturally responsive, and grounded in both compassion and evidence-based care. I welcome people of all cultural backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, relationship structures, and lived experiences, and I am committed to providing an affirming and non-judgmental space. Whether you are navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, or longstanding patterns that feel difficult to shift, you deserve a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood.
I am Registered Psychologist with a strong commitment to social justice and supporting individuals from all walks of life. I believe therapy should be inclusive, culturally responsive, and grounded in both compassion and evidence-based care. I welcome people of all cultural backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, relationship structures, and lived experiences, and I am committed to providing an affirming and non-judgmental space. Whether you are navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, or longstanding patterns that feel difficult to shift, you deserve a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood.
(02) 8000 1814 View (02) 8000 1814
Val Coelho
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Online Only
Many people come to counselling feeling stuck in survival mode. They are overwhelmed, constantly overthinking, emotionally reactive, or caught in the same relationship patterns they promised themselves they would not repeat. I work with people who are tired of analysing everything and still feeling the same. In our work together, we slow things down so you can understand what is driving your reactions, regulate your emotions, and respond differently with more clarity, control, and self-trust.
Many people come to counselling feeling stuck in survival mode. They are overwhelmed, constantly overthinking, emotionally reactive, or caught in the same relationship patterns they promised themselves they would not repeat. I work with people who are tired of analysing everything and still feeling the same. In our work together, we slow things down so you can understand what is driving your reactions, regulate your emotions, and respond differently with more clarity, control, and self-trust.
(02) 9100 0941 View (02) 9100 0941
Krystal Ellis Counselling
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I also have extensive experience working with veterans, first responders and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I provide compassionate, trauma-informed counselling tailored to your unique needs. Using EMDR, CBT, ACT, Solution-Focused Therapy and other evidence-based approaches, I help clients process difficult experiences, develop effective coping skills, improve relationships and create lasting positive change.
I also have extensive experience working with veterans, first responders and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I provide compassionate, trauma-informed counselling tailored to your unique needs. Using EMDR, CBT, ACT, Solution-Focused Therapy and other evidence-based approaches, I help clients process difficult experiences, develop effective coping skills, improve relationships and create lasting positive change.
(08) 7948 6663 View (08) 7948 6663

See more therapy options for Stanmore

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.