Lesbian Psychologists and Therapists in Stanmore, NSW

Photo of Carlie Pottington, Psychotherapist, PACFA
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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Photo of Mackie Demirel, Counsellor, ACA-L2
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
Photo of Paula Barham, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
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
Photo of Val Coelho, Counsellor, ACA-L3
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
Photo of Ann-Maree Whelan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
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
Photo of William Thomas Wykoff - A-Okay Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
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
Photo of Maria Wallgren, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
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
Photo of Patrick McGrath, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
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
Photo of Amber Rules, Psychotherapist, PACFA
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Davina Morley, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Davina Morley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
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 strive to be anti-oppressive, and to understand my privileges and blind spots. While my formal training and registration are in psychology, I understand that we are all much more than diagnoses, and that we adapt to and resist experiences of oppression and trauma in order to survive in many different painful and incredible ways.
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 strive to be anti-oppressive, and to understand my privileges and blind spots. While my formal training and registration are in psychology, I understand that we are all much more than diagnoses, and that we adapt to and resist experiences of oppression and trauma in order to survive in many different painful and incredible ways.
(03) 8413 7355 View (03) 8413 7355
Photo of Kodi Duruchukwu, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Kodi Duruchukwu
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Newtown, NSW 2042
Hi I'm Kodi (They/She), I'm a compassionate and dedicated Provisional Psychologist with a strong commitment to supporting clients from CLAD and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds. As a queer, and neurodivergent clinician, my lived experience within the community aids me to innately empathise with experiences clients may be navigating. My experience encompasses a broad array of client presentations, including ADHD, gender identity, gender dysphoria, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, family and relational conflicts, complex trauma/abuse.
Hi I'm Kodi (They/She), I'm a compassionate and dedicated Provisional Psychologist with a strong commitment to supporting clients from CLAD and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds. As a queer, and neurodivergent clinician, my lived experience within the community aids me to innately empathise with experiences clients may be navigating. My experience encompasses a broad array of client presentations, including ADHD, gender identity, gender dysphoria, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, family and relational conflicts, complex trauma/abuse.
(02) 9159 6657 View (02) 9159 6657
Photo of Jess Hodges, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jess Hodges
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
(02) 5605 6601 View (02) 5605 6601
Photo of Amanda McFarlane, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Amanda McFarlane
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I am Amanda (she/her), shamelessly human first, therapist second. I enjoy bringing both of our humanness to the therapy space, where you can colour outside the lines and express the messiness of being human with no judgement. I am down-to-earth, warm, and genuine, where I aim to empower you to tell your story, as we explore and clarify how you show up in your everyday life. Collaboratively, we will deeply delve into the roots and patterns of habits, behaviours, and mechanisms to gain a deep understanding of ‘why you are who you are’ and ‘why you do the things you do’.
Hi, I am Amanda (she/her), shamelessly human first, therapist second. I enjoy bringing both of our humanness to the therapy space, where you can colour outside the lines and express the messiness of being human with no judgement. I am down-to-earth, warm, and genuine, where I aim to empower you to tell your story, as we explore and clarify how you show up in your everyday life. Collaboratively, we will deeply delve into the roots and patterns of habits, behaviours, and mechanisms to gain a deep understanding of ‘why you are who you are’ and ‘why you do the things you do’.
(02) 9538 7637 View (02) 9538 7637
Photo of Tatiana Faundez, Social Worker, AASW
Tatiana Faundez
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
I am a Social Worker and a Gestalt Psychotherapist. I have worked in mental health, disability, with the aged and the dying. Throughout my life journey I have come to have a deep appreciation of the human spirit and its capacity for growth and development. I understand that we are all unique in our response to the challenges that we face, and I work towards creating a supportive and safe environment that allows exploration of what is currently occurring in your life and how it is impacting your ability to live as you would like. Through this process, awareness deepens and the possibility and opportunity for change can occur.
I am a Social Worker and a Gestalt Psychotherapist. I have worked in mental health, disability, with the aged and the dying. Throughout my life journey I have come to have a deep appreciation of the human spirit and its capacity for growth and development. I understand that we are all unique in our response to the challenges that we face, and I work towards creating a supportive and safe environment that allows exploration of what is currently occurring in your life and how it is impacting your ability to live as you would like. Through this process, awareness deepens and the possibility and opportunity for change can occur.
0402 975 707 View 0402 975 707
Photo of Kathryn Anne Fortuna, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Kathryn Anne Fortuna
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Counsellor. Relationship Counsellor. Workplace Wellness. Organisations. The Anna Centres Business Development Counsellor. EAP Specialist. Specialising in Relationship Counselling. Your relationship with yourself and others. This includes building strong communication, respect and intimacy. I also support Families, Individuals and Teens to explore their feelings, clear old patterns, ignite self-awareness, build resourcefulness and feel more purposeful. I offer support with relationship building, parenting, clarity of thoughts, addressing behaviours, thought patterns & issues like anxiety & stress.
Counsellor. Relationship Counsellor. Workplace Wellness. Organisations. The Anna Centres Business Development Counsellor. EAP Specialist. Specialising in Relationship Counselling. Your relationship with yourself and others. This includes building strong communication, respect and intimacy. I also support Families, Individuals and Teens to explore their feelings, clear old patterns, ignite self-awareness, build resourcefulness and feel more purposeful. I offer support with relationship building, parenting, clarity of thoughts, addressing behaviours, thought patterns & issues like anxiety & stress.
(03) 4420 9660 View (03) 4420 9660
Photo of El Byrne, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
El Byrne
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Newtown, NSW 2042
Hi, I’m El (She/Her), a bubbly, queer and neurodivergent psychologist who has been working with people from all walks of life and corners of the world for some time. I have a passion for working with people who are of the LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent, First Nations communities, and those who are have experienced traumatic events in their life. 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.
Hi, I’m El (She/Her), a bubbly, queer and neurodivergent psychologist who has been working with people from all walks of life and corners of the world for some time. I have a passion for working with people who are of the LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent, First Nations communities, and those who are have experienced traumatic events in their life. 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 0596 View (02) 9100 0596
Photo of Chauncey Mauva Sjostedt, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Chauncey Mauva Sjostedt
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
My name is Chauncey Sjostedt (she/her) and I am a PACFA certified Gestalt Therapist who offers a warm, compassionate space where you can feel truly seen, supported and safe to explore life’s challenges.
My name is Chauncey Sjostedt (she/her) and I am a PACFA certified Gestalt Therapist who offers a warm, compassionate space where you can feel truly seen, supported and safe to explore life’s challenges.
0403 557 717 View 0403 557 717
Photo of Alanna Audus, Social Worker, AASW
Alanna Audus
Social Worker, AASW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m a neurodivergent, queer therapist (social worker) providing LGBTQ+ affirming and trauma-informed therapy in Hobart and online. You deserve a therapist who understands your experiences, challenges, and strengths, without needing to explain or justify yourself. I welcome people of all genders, sexualities, neurotypes, ethnicities, and relationship styles into a space that is warm, inclusive, and genuinely affirming.
I’m a neurodivergent, queer therapist (social worker) providing LGBTQ+ affirming and trauma-informed therapy in Hobart and online. You deserve a therapist who understands your experiences, challenges, and strengths, without needing to explain or justify yourself. I welcome people of all genders, sexualities, neurotypes, ethnicities, and relationship styles into a space that is warm, inclusive, and genuinely affirming.
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Photo of Cristiona Guiney, Social Worker, AASW
Cristiona Guiney
Social Worker, AASW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, my name is Cristiona and I am passionate about social change, building safe, compassionate and supportive relationships, and creating opportunities for people to be empowered. I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer person. This gives me a unique perspective to my work. All this may mean I am not the right therapist for you, but also if working alongside someone with lived experience who get's it is important to you I might be just the person.
Hi, my name is Cristiona and I am passionate about social change, building safe, compassionate and supportive relationships, and creating opportunities for people to be empowered. I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer person. This gives me a unique perspective to my work. All this may mean I am not the right therapist for you, but also if working alongside someone with lived experience who get's it is important to you I might be just the person.
(03) 8338 1788 View (03) 8338 1788
Photo of Sarah Antonia De Pasquale - Thrive within Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Thrive within Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with individuals who are ready — whether confidently or cautiously — to explore what’s happening beneath the surface. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, substance use, or difficulties with identity and relationships. I often support people experiencing mental health concerns, alcohol and other drug (AOD) challenges, and members of the LGBTIQ+ community seeking a safe and supportive space. My approach is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. Together, we work at your pace using evidence-based strategies to help you feel heard, empowered, and supported
I work with individuals who are ready — whether confidently or cautiously — to explore what’s happening beneath the surface. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, substance use, or difficulties with identity and relationships. I often support people experiencing mental health concerns, alcohol and other drug (AOD) challenges, and members of the LGBTIQ+ community seeking a safe and supportive space. My approach is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. Together, we work at your pace using evidence-based strategies to help you feel heard, empowered, and supported
(08) 7110 0028 View (08) 7110 0028

See more therapy options for Stanmore

Lesbian Therapists
What is lesbian-affirming therapy?
Lesbian-affirming therapy is a type of mental health support that fully affirms and reflects a client's lesbian identity. It is rooted in acceptance and does not attempt to change or question an individual's sexual orientation. In this type of therapy, clients work with a therapist who understands the unique experiences of lesbian women. This support is especially important, as research shows that lesbian individuals face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges compared to heterosexual populations. Lesbian-affirming therapy acknowledges that lesbian individuals may encounter specific stressors—such as coming out challenges, family rejection, workplace discrimination, and minority stress—that require specialised understanding and intervention. Lesbian-affirming therapists often work with clients across all age groups, from adolescents navigating their emerging identity to adults and older individuals addressing life transitions and relationship concerns. Many therapists also provide couples therapy for lesbian partners, helping them navigate relationship dynamics, communication challenges, or external stressors that may impact their relationship. It is important to note that therapists provide talk therapy and counseling services but do not prescribe medication—if medication is needed for conditions like depression or anxiety, they will coordinate care with a psychiatrist or primary care physician who can provide psychiatric medication management alongside therapeutic support.

Why should I see a lesbian therapist?
Some clients prefer to work with lesbian therapists who may bring personal lived experience to the therapeutic relationship. Choosing to work with a lesbian therapist can offer a deeper sense of connection, comfort, and shared understanding. A therapist who identifies as lesbian may require clients to give less background explanation—whether it’s about navigating romantic relationships, feeling unseen in certain spaces, or processing the impact of past relationship challenges. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. Additionally, many lesbian-affirming therapists can connect clients to other providers or community-based resources—such as bisexual support groups or LGBTQ+ organisations—that offer additional affirming spaces for connection.

How do I find a lesbian therapist?
The Psychology Today online directory is a helpful tool for finding lesbian-affirming therapists. You can use search filters to identify therapists who specialise in LGBTQ+ care and work specifically with bisexual clients. You can also filter by clinical specialties, therapeutic approaches, accepted insurance, session costs, and languages spoken to find the right fit. Look for profiles where therapists explicitly mention working with lesbian clients, or where they describe their approach as identity-affirming, inclusive, or trauma-informed. Many providers will also list their own identities, which may help you find someone with shared lived experience if that is important to you. You can also look for credentials or continuing education in areas such as LGBTQ+ mental health, trauma-informed care, and intersectionality.