LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Tallebudgera Valley, QLD

Photo of Neisha Cass - Neisha Cass Counselling + Equine Assisted Therapy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
I aim to provide a connection from inner vulnerability to someone and somewhere safe and supportive. I believe that we each have unique windows of tolerance, narrow or wide, depending on our experiences and it is our aim through therapy to support people to widen their window, and grow their capacity to thrive. My approach as a therapist combines Counselling, Equine Assisted Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Attachment Focused Expressive Therapy, Art therapy, Sand and Symbol Therapy, Trauma Informed Guided Drawing, Mindfulness and Neuroscience.
I aim to provide a connection from inner vulnerability to someone and somewhere safe and supportive. I believe that we each have unique windows of tolerance, narrow or wide, depending on our experiences and it is our aim through therapy to support people to widen their window, and grow their capacity to thrive. My approach as a therapist combines Counselling, Equine Assisted Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Attachment Focused Expressive Therapy, Art therapy, Sand and Symbol Therapy, Trauma Informed Guided Drawing, Mindfulness and Neuroscience.
(07) 3214 3627 View (07) 3214 3627
Photo of Flavio De Grandis - Jungian Psychotherapist, MSc
Flavio De Grandis - Jungian Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Serves Area
There is a finality to symptoms such as insecurity, depression, anger and anxiety. Exploring one’s psyche can lead us on a path of transformation, creativity, authenticity to oneself and healing. Jungian therapy is a process suited to anyone with an interest in knowing more about themselves. As Jung said “one does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious” and so Jungian therapy is a journey of awakening inner aspects one may not have realised they carried, aspects brought forth which may have hindered a connection to ourselves and to others.
There is a finality to symptoms such as insecurity, depression, anger and anxiety. Exploring one’s psyche can lead us on a path of transformation, creativity, authenticity to oneself and healing. Jungian therapy is a process suited to anyone with an interest in knowing more about themselves. As Jung said “one does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious” and so Jungian therapy is a journey of awakening inner aspects one may not have realised they carried, aspects brought forth which may have hindered a connection to ourselves and to others.
0410 784 810 View 0410 784 810

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Bri Stevens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bri Stevens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serves Area
I specialise in LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, and disability.
In therapy, I start from the belief that you are the expert in your life and I am here to listen without judgement, provide insights where needed, and help you draw on your own strengths, values and life experiences to solve problems. I'm an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, queer nonbinary and neurodivergent myself, and a member of AusPATH.
I specialise in LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, and disability.
In therapy, I start from the belief that you are the expert in your life and I am here to listen without judgement, provide insights where needed, and help you draw on your own strengths, values and life experiences to solve problems. I'm an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, queer nonbinary and neurodivergent myself, and a member of AusPATH.
(07) 2000 5957 View (07) 2000 5957
Photo of Shayna McKenzie - Shayna McKenzie | Be Good Therapy, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Shayna McKenzie | Be Good Therapy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My experience is supporting women's health, NDIS disability support, LGBTQIA+ adults and teenagers, and culturally diverse people.
I'm a mental health counsellor for individuals and couples. My approach to therapy is centred on your strengths and your unique therapeutic needs. I operate with the belief that therapy doesn’t always have to be intense. With me, you can expect therapy to be warm, welcoming, safe and sometimes a bit funny!
My experience is supporting women's health, NDIS disability support, LGBTQIA+ adults and teenagers, and culturally diverse people.
I'm a mental health counsellor for individuals and couples. My approach to therapy is centred on your strengths and your unique therapeutic needs. I operate with the belief that therapy doesn’t always have to be intense. With me, you can expect therapy to be warm, welcoming, safe and sometimes a bit funny!
(07) 3477 9154 View (07) 3477 9154
Photo of Gina Clement, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Gina Clement
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Along with my LGBTQIA+ experience, I can offer support for people exploring their gender or sexuality; as well as anyone experiencing issues around a current or past pregnancy.
Are you challenging your thoughts about what gender or sexuality feels right for you now? Maybe you've decided to transition or affirm your gender and want someone to psychologically support you during this process. OR Are you worrying or have concerns about your current or past pregnancy? Has your anxiety increased, and you don't know if you'll cope, especially with making decisions about the birth process? Are you worried about the birthing process and can't consider being a parent afterwards?
Along with my LGBTQIA+ experience, I can offer support for people exploring their gender or sexuality; as well as anyone experiencing issues around a current or past pregnancy.
Are you challenging your thoughts about what gender or sexuality feels right for you now? Maybe you've decided to transition or affirm your gender and want someone to psychologically support you during this process. OR Are you worrying or have concerns about your current or past pregnancy? Has your anxiety increased, and you don't know if you'll cope, especially with making decisions about the birth process? Are you worried about the birthing process and can't consider being a parent afterwards?
(07) 4358 3906 View (07) 4358 3906
Photo of Belinda H Franklin - Awakened Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Awakened Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
As well as being a member of the LGBTQIA community
Counselling done differently! It's important to me to take the 'clinical' aspect out of counselling, and I strive to provide a safe, non-judgement space to support my clients. You'll be welcomed into an understanding space that not only accepts but celebrates who you are, while building your unique strengths and resilience. My goal is to assist my clients to work through their thoughts and emotions to gain clarity as they move forward to their preferred future. I believe my job is to facilitate your own innate ability to grow and evolve.
As well as being a member of the LGBTQIA community
Counselling done differently! It's important to me to take the 'clinical' aspect out of counselling, and I strive to provide a safe, non-judgement space to support my clients. You'll be welcomed into an understanding space that not only accepts but celebrates who you are, while building your unique strengths and resilience. My goal is to assist my clients to work through their thoughts and emotions to gain clarity as they move forward to their preferred future. I believe my job is to facilitate your own innate ability to grow and evolve.
(07) 5224 2081 View (07) 5224 2081
Photo of Kristy Gallirhir, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kristy Gallirhir
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Paradise Point, QLD 4216
My interests include Autism in adults & females, ADHD, later-life neurodivergence, neuropsychological assessment, sexual health, LGBTQIA+ issues and complex trauma from sexual abuse.
Hi, I'm Kristy- a neurodivergent Clinical Psychologist based in Gold Coast, Queensland. I believe in a trauma-informed, neurodiverse-affirming practice to support individuals through their mental health journey, including comprehensive assessment and client-centred therapy. My goal is to provide a safe space along your mental health journey.
My interests include Autism in adults & females, ADHD, later-life neurodivergence, neuropsychological assessment, sexual health, LGBTQIA+ issues and complex trauma from sexual abuse.
Hi, I'm Kristy- a neurodivergent Clinical Psychologist based in Gold Coast, Queensland. I believe in a trauma-informed, neurodiverse-affirming practice to support individuals through their mental health journey, including comprehensive assessment and client-centred therapy. My goal is to provide a safe space along your mental health journey.
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Photo of Clayton McDonald, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Clayton McDonald
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Additionally, Clayton has experience in LGBTQIA+ mental health and is registered with the Australian Professional Association for Trans Health (AusPATH).
Clayton is a Clinical Psychologist who values understanding the differences of each person's experience. He takes a neuro-affirming, client-centred approach to therapy, fostering a nonjudgmental space to offer personalised care that resonates with each individual's unique needs. Clayton has experience working with people across the lifespan and has worked in various settings, including schools, private practices, and hospitals. Clayton has an interest in cognitive assessment, particularly those that highlight and embrace neurodiversity.
Additionally, Clayton has experience in LGBTQIA+ mental health and is registered with the Australian Professional Association for Trans Health (AusPATH).
Clayton is a Clinical Psychologist who values understanding the differences of each person's experience. He takes a neuro-affirming, client-centred approach to therapy, fostering a nonjudgmental space to offer personalised care that resonates with each individual's unique needs. Clayton has experience working with people across the lifespan and has worked in various settings, including schools, private practices, and hospitals. Clayton has an interest in cognitive assessment, particularly those that highlight and embrace neurodiversity.
(08) 6029 4702 View (08) 6029 4702
Photo of Laurenne See - Mind on Health Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mind on Health Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Oxenford, QLD 4210
Our psychologists are experienced in a range of mental health and life adjustment concerns including but not limited to depression, Bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, trauma, abuse, BPD, school or workplace difficulties, addiction, ADHD, ASD, disability, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+, gender diversity, perinatal concerns, parenting, etc.
Mind on Health is a private mental health service. We have clinics in Oxenford and Parkwood, offering psychological and counselling services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. We provide caring and sensitive, evidence-based therapy, treatment and counselling with clinicians who have a wide range of experience in mental health and well-being concerns. We also offer comprehensive assessments for children and adults including Learning Assessments (WISC, WIAT, ABAS), Cognitive Assessments (WISC, WAIS, ABAS), ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessments, and Personality Assessments.
Our psychologists are experienced in a range of mental health and life adjustment concerns including but not limited to depression, Bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, trauma, abuse, BPD, school or workplace difficulties, addiction, ADHD, ASD, disability, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+, gender diversity, perinatal concerns, parenting, etc.
Mind on Health is a private mental health service. We have clinics in Oxenford and Parkwood, offering psychological and counselling services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. We provide caring and sensitive, evidence-based therapy, treatment and counselling with clinicians who have a wide range of experience in mental health and well-being concerns. We also offer comprehensive assessments for children and adults including Learning Assessments (WISC, WIAT, ABAS), Cognitive Assessments (WISC, WAIS, ABAS), ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessments, and Personality Assessments.
(07) 2801 6538 View (07) 2801 6538
Photo of Rasha Jones, Counsellor
Rasha Jones
Counsellor
Mudgeeraba, QLD 4213
I'm a queer, trans, Arabic, first gen
I practice with a trauma-informed perspective. I'm trained in evidence based emotional freedom technique (EFT, or tapping), acceptance commitment therapy (ACT) and relationship counselling. I work with a lot of individuals deemed disabled or at risk by society. I have a strong focus on systemic/structural oppression, intersectional feminism and community.
I'm a queer, trans, Arabic, first gen
I practice with a trauma-informed perspective. I'm trained in evidence based emotional freedom technique (EFT, or tapping), acceptance commitment therapy (ACT) and relationship counselling. I work with a lot of individuals deemed disabled or at risk by society. I have a strong focus on systemic/structural oppression, intersectional feminism and community.
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Photo of Rhiannon Flavel, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Rhiannon Flavel
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Currumbin Valley, QLD 4223
I work with adults & adolescents experiencing complex trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, anger, life transitions, grief & loss, overwhelm & stress, LGBTQIA+ issues, & relational challenges between people who long to connect more fully.
My approach as a psychotherapist is holistic, non-judgemental, trauma informed & deeply relational. I have worked in various roles including mental health counselling, outdoor education teaching, adventure therapy, wilderness rites of passage, & group facilitation for over a decade, supporting adults, young people & families. I bring these diverse experiences into my therapeutic practice to offer a specialised approach to this transformational work.
I work with adults & adolescents experiencing complex trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, anger, life transitions, grief & loss, overwhelm & stress, LGBTQIA+ issues, & relational challenges between people who long to connect more fully.
My approach as a psychotherapist is holistic, non-judgemental, trauma informed & deeply relational. I have worked in various roles including mental health counselling, outdoor education teaching, adventure therapy, wilderness rites of passage, & group facilitation for over a decade, supporting adults, young people & families. I bring these diverse experiences into my therapeutic practice to offer a specialised approach to this transformational work.
(02) 5016 7519 View (02) 5016 7519
Photo of Deanne Blackman - Mindwindow Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mindwindow Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Maudsland, QLD 4210
Mindwindow Psychology has availability for adults & adolescents (16+) presenting with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, PTSD, parenting problems, phobias, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), grief & loss, low self-esteem, LGBT+ minority stress, and issues relating to sexuality & gender identity.
Our psychologists have training in evidence-based therapies including; Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR), Radical Exposure Tapping (RET), Mindfulness, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychosexual Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and more.
Mindwindow Psychology has availability for adults & adolescents (16+) presenting with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, PTSD, parenting problems, phobias, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), grief & loss, low self-esteem, LGBT+ minority stress, and issues relating to sexuality & gender identity.
Our psychologists have training in evidence-based therapies including; Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR), Radical Exposure Tapping (RET), Mindfulness, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychosexual Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and more.
(07) 2801 6133 View (07) 2801 6133
Photo of John Harradine, Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
John Harradine
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Online Only
Whilst covering the general population, I also have specific expertise in relationship and family work, life transitions, the LGBT community, the business community and maturing years.
You may find your oh so busy lives and related demands lead you to be pre-occupied with any of worry, guilt, resentment, irritability, frustration, tiredness and exhaustion. I am focused on supporting individuals, relationships and families challenged with anxiety, depression, anger , dependencies, enduring worry and overwhelm, work-life balance, family conflict, financial strains and other presenting challenges. Beyond the resolution of issues, building a sustainable life strategy is a key feature of my work. My book, Breaking Patterns - Run the life you want to have, or life runs you! forms the foundation of this work.
Whilst covering the general population, I also have specific expertise in relationship and family work, life transitions, the LGBT community, the business community and maturing years.
You may find your oh so busy lives and related demands lead you to be pre-occupied with any of worry, guilt, resentment, irritability, frustration, tiredness and exhaustion. I am focused on supporting individuals, relationships and families challenged with anxiety, depression, anger , dependencies, enduring worry and overwhelm, work-life balance, family conflict, financial strains and other presenting challenges. Beyond the resolution of issues, building a sustainable life strategy is a key feature of my work. My book, Breaking Patterns - Run the life you want to have, or life runs you! forms the foundation of this work.
(02) 8806 0362 View (02) 8806 0362
Photo of Jess Whitelum - Mulla Therapy , Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Mulla Mulla Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Tugun, QLD 4224
I offer individual, couples, family and group sessions and specialise in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, LGBTQIA+ & minority stress, life transitions, identity & self-esteem issues.
As a person who has always been drawn to the power of healing in relationship, I bring with me a warm & relational presence that welcomes all parts of you & you and I, into the shared space. My integrative & collaborative approach to therapy acknowledges the inter-relationship of the mind, body, spirit & how such elements intelligently respond to the external field involving humans, Country & community. I work from & through a humanistic, trauma- informed, polyvagal, gestalt, somatic, neuroscience & attachment theory lens. This means safety, relationality & body attunement guide the direction & pace of the session.
I offer individual, couples, family and group sessions and specialise in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, LGBTQIA+ & minority stress, life transitions, identity & self-esteem issues.
As a person who has always been drawn to the power of healing in relationship, I bring with me a warm & relational presence that welcomes all parts of you & you and I, into the shared space. My integrative & collaborative approach to therapy acknowledges the inter-relationship of the mind, body, spirit & how such elements intelligently respond to the external field involving humans, Country & community. I work from & through a humanistic, trauma- informed, polyvagal, gestalt, somatic, neuroscience & attachment theory lens. This means safety, relationality & body attunement guide the direction & pace of the session.
(03) 4513 5294 View (03) 4513 5294
Photo of Kate Oosthuizen, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Kate Oosthuizen
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Mudgeeraba, QLD 4213
Kate works with adults, adolescents and LGBTQ+ individuals with relationship, trauma C/PTSD, anxiety, depression, guilt and grief.
Kate’s counselling experience spans over 25+ years and specialises in trauma-informed individual counselling. Kate is passionate about applying trauma-informed practices for the safety of all clients. Being caring, compassionate and authentic is integral to healing from trauma. Providing relevant psychoeducation and practical strategies/techniques concerning life's dis/stressors and options for healthy coping skills is essential for wellbeing. Kate enables clients to experience hope and supported wellbeing whilst working towards their counselling goals. Kate is humbled by the bravery of the clients and post-trauma growth witnessed.
Kate works with adults, adolescents and LGBTQ+ individuals with relationship, trauma C/PTSD, anxiety, depression, guilt and grief.
Kate’s counselling experience spans over 25+ years and specialises in trauma-informed individual counselling. Kate is passionate about applying trauma-informed practices for the safety of all clients. Being caring, compassionate and authentic is integral to healing from trauma. Providing relevant psychoeducation and practical strategies/techniques concerning life's dis/stressors and options for healthy coping skills is essential for wellbeing. Kate enables clients to experience hope and supported wellbeing whilst working towards their counselling goals. Kate is humbled by the bravery of the clients and post-trauma growth witnessed.
(02) 8074 3830 View (02) 8074 3830
Photo of Hannah Doyle - Brain Hug Therapy, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Brain Hug Therapy
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Online Only
I have experiences in the areas of: Addiction, Youth, LGBTQIA+ community, Gambling, Relationship breakdowns and new relationships, Anxiety, Depression, Neurodivergence and more.
If you feel you need space to just release what you are holding onto, then feel free to contact me. Remember that first step is the hardest, but once your in a session with me, I promise you wont be alone on the journey you choose.
I have experiences in the areas of: Addiction, Youth, LGBTQIA+ community, Gambling, Relationship breakdowns and new relationships, Anxiety, Depression, Neurodivergence and more.
If you feel you need space to just release what you are holding onto, then feel free to contact me. Remember that first step is the hardest, but once your in a session with me, I promise you wont be alone on the journey you choose.
(07) 2801 7384 View (07) 2801 7384
Photo of Lucas Plunkett, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Lucas Plunkett
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Something brought you here—maybe a feeling, a question, or a sense that things could be different. Whatever it is, I’m glad you’re exploring this next step. I provide a warm, attuned space where you can bring whatever you’re going through, whether it’s; anxiety, depression, addictions/compulsions, relationship issues, sexuality, identity or that you're simply feeling stuck in life.
Something brought you here—maybe a feeling, a question, or a sense that things could be different. Whatever it is, I’m glad you’re exploring this next step. I provide a warm, attuned space where you can bring whatever you’re going through, whether it’s; anxiety, depression, addictions/compulsions, relationship issues, sexuality, identity or that you're simply feeling stuck in life.
0404 991 746 View 0404 991 746
Photo of Camille Montocchio, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Camille Montocchio
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Southport, QLD 4215
My ideal client is navigating challenges like anxiety, low mood, chronic health issues, or perfectionism. They want clarity, relief, and meaningful change. They're seeking a safe space to feel understood, build insight, and develop practical tools to cope and grow. If this sounds like you, I’m here to help. Together, we can explore what matters and create a path forward. Feel free to contact our lovely admin team and we can help book an initial consult to see if we’re the right fit.
My ideal client is navigating challenges like anxiety, low mood, chronic health issues, or perfectionism. They want clarity, relief, and meaningful change. They're seeking a safe space to feel understood, build insight, and develop practical tools to cope and grow. If this sounds like you, I’m here to help. Together, we can explore what matters and create a path forward. Feel free to contact our lovely admin team and we can help book an initial consult to see if we’re the right fit.
(07) 2801 5575 View (07) 2801 5575
Photo of Senta Sharp - Senta Sharp Counselling, Counsellor, PACFA
Senta Sharp Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed, angry, alone, sad or burned out can happen to us all, no matter how successful you are. As a counsellor, I offer support and help to understand your issues, find clarity, make a plan, change direction, feel stronger, and more resilient. I’ll help you cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger, difficult relationships, medical issues, chronic pain, weight-loss, identity issues, fertility issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. Take time to focus on you & your mental health. No referral or health care plan needed, just connect and start this week to live a better, calmer, happier life.
Feeling overwhelmed, angry, alone, sad or burned out can happen to us all, no matter how successful you are. As a counsellor, I offer support and help to understand your issues, find clarity, make a plan, change direction, feel stronger, and more resilient. I’ll help you cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger, difficult relationships, medical issues, chronic pain, weight-loss, identity issues, fertility issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. Take time to focus on you & your mental health. No referral or health care plan needed, just connect and start this week to live a better, calmer, happier life.
(07) 3186 9745 View (07) 3186 9745
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
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.