LGBTQ+ Affirming Psychologists and Therapists in Ascot Vale, VIC

Toya Ricci
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032
Whether you’re seeking insight, healing, or simply a space to be fully seen, I offer expansive, compassionate, and individually tailored support that welcomes the full range of human experience. This may include working through identity and belonging, cultural dynamics, personal growth, communication and boundaries, emotional resilience, grief and trauma, chronic illness, creativity and career direction, or exploring sexual desire, pleasure, and intimacy.
Whether you’re seeking insight, healing, or simply a space to be fully seen, I offer expansive, compassionate, and individually tailored support that welcomes the full range of human experience. This may include working through identity and belonging, cultural dynamics, personal growth, communication and boundaries, emotional resilience, grief and trauma, chronic illness, creativity and career direction, or exploring sexual desire, pleasure, and intimacy.
(03) 8595 5264 View (03) 8595 5264
Kelly Breen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I have extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma (c/PTSD), addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. I also help people navigate the challenges associated with relationship issues, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My integrative therapy style incorporates evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT. As a trained yoga teacher, I integrate these practices and somatic work. I am trained to provide psychedelic integration & preparation support and the Safe and Sound protocol for nervous system regulation.
I have extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma (c/PTSD), addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. I also help people navigate the challenges associated with relationship issues, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My integrative therapy style incorporates evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT. As a trained yoga teacher, I integrate these practices and somatic work. I am trained to provide psychedelic integration & preparation support and the Safe and Sound protocol for nervous system regulation.
(03) 9007 2718 View (03) 9007 2718
David Mackay
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032
○Accepting face-to-face clients in West Melbourne and Online○ I work with Veterans, Tradies, and people who identify as LGBTQ.
In my life, I have been both a Roof Plumber and a Psychologist. I believe this experience has helped me to offer psychological therapy in a straight-forward, down-to-earth way. I offer Trauma focussed therapies (including EMDR), as well as Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
○Accepting face-to-face clients in West Melbourne and Online○ I work with Veterans, Tradies, and people who identify as LGBTQ.
In my life, I have been both a Roof Plumber and a Psychologist. I believe this experience has helped me to offer psychological therapy in a straight-forward, down-to-earth way. I offer Trauma focussed therapies (including EMDR), as well as Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
(07) 3608 1085 View (07) 3608 1085
Patrick McIvor
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
I'm a counsellor specialising in trauma, loss, and change, based in Melbourne and available online, Australia-wide. I work with adults during challenging times, offering a supportive space to regain stability, strengthen day to day functioning, and rebuild a sense of direction and identity.
I'm a counsellor specialising in trauma, loss, and change, based in Melbourne and available online, Australia-wide. I work with adults during challenging times, offering a supportive space to regain stability, strengthen day to day functioning, and rebuild a sense of direction and identity.
(03) 7003 2550 View (03) 7003 2550
Jason Lim-How
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I work with adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward. Many clients come to therapy experiencing anxiety, the impact of past experiences, or difficulties in relationships, and are looking for a space to better understand themselves and what’s been happening in their lives. Together, we work to make sense of these patterns, develop a clearer understanding of your experiences, and find ways of responding that feel more manageable and aligned with what matters to you.
I work with adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward. Many clients come to therapy experiencing anxiety, the impact of past experiences, or difficulties in relationships, and are looking for a space to better understand themselves and what’s been happening in their lives. Together, we work to make sense of these patterns, develop a clearer understanding of your experiences, and find ways of responding that feel more manageable and aligned with what matters to you.
(03) 7003 2893 View (03) 7003 2893
Dr Peter Eide
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032
Dr Peter Eide has extensive experience in psychological treatment mainly with adolescent and adult men that have depression, anxiety and addiction, though he also works with women. Unlike other psychologists who are just out of university Peter has been working in this field since 2002 and has been employed in youth mental health, alcohol and drug services, community health services and a university.
Dr Peter Eide has extensive experience in psychological treatment mainly with adolescent and adult men that have depression, anxiety and addiction, though he also works with women. Unlike other psychologists who are just out of university Peter has been working in this field since 2002 and has been employed in youth mental health, alcohol and drug services, community health services and a university.
(03) 9118 9026 View (03) 9118 9026
Tigist Kebede
Verified Verified
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032
Tigist (She/Her) is an Ethiopian woman who was born in Sudan and came to Australia as a child under the humanitarian program. She trained as a Counselor and has experience working in the public and private sector, including advisory roles in various levels of government. Tigist has strong grassroots connections with diverse communities, with expertise in workforce development and consulting. In 2018 “Pola Psychology,” was founded by Nasalifya Namwinga, Tigist Kebede joined in 2019 and together they established Pola Practice Pty Ltd in 2021.
Tigist (She/Her) is an Ethiopian woman who was born in Sudan and came to Australia as a child under the humanitarian program. She trained as a Counselor and has experience working in the public and private sector, including advisory roles in various levels of government. Tigist has strong grassroots connections with diverse communities, with expertise in workforce development and consulting. In 2018 “Pola Psychology,” was founded by Nasalifya Namwinga, Tigist Kebede joined in 2019 and together they established Pola Practice Pty Ltd in 2021.
(03) 9001 5665 View (03) 9001 5665
Portia Kambasha
Verified Verified
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032
I welcome individuals and families who represent marginalised communities, (neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, culturally diverse, and anyone who has ever been “othered”) and provide a service that is inclusive and affirming whilst utilising an anti racist and decolonized lens.
Comprehensive family therapy assessments. Single session therapy . Mental health risk assessment Neurodiverse affirming and anti-racist .
I welcome individuals and families who represent marginalised communities, (neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, culturally diverse, and anyone who has ever been “othered”) and provide a service that is inclusive and affirming whilst utilising an anti racist and decolonized lens.
Comprehensive family therapy assessments. Single session therapy . Mental health risk assessment Neurodiverse affirming and anti-racist .
(03) 4327 9085 View (03) 4327 9085
Walter Carter
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Sometimes we require a helping hand when adjusting to an ever-changing world. I want to help you develop skills and tools to create sustainable fulfilment within your life. Common challenges we all face include issues with self-esteem, processing negative or strong emotions, work-life balance, adjusting to change, developing meaningful relationships, and discovering our purpose. In addition, stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and interpersonal conflict can obstruct our ability to experience life to its fullest potential. You have the ability to unlock your own power, and I want to help you discover that inner strength.
Sometimes we require a helping hand when adjusting to an ever-changing world. I want to help you develop skills and tools to create sustainable fulfilment within your life. Common challenges we all face include issues with self-esteem, processing negative or strong emotions, work-life balance, adjusting to change, developing meaningful relationships, and discovering our purpose. In addition, stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and interpersonal conflict can obstruct our ability to experience life to its fullest potential. You have the ability to unlock your own power, and I want to help you discover that inner strength.
0480 137 195 View 0480 137 195
Jake Iaria
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Jake is a registered psychologist known for his warm, grounded approach. Founder of Wayfind Psychology and Consulting, he supports children, adolescents, and adults to gain insight into any challenges they're experiencing, and develop practical strategies to navigate them. He provides both in-person and Telehealth support to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, behavioural and social-emotional difficulties, and neurodivergent presentations such as ADHD and autism. Additionally, Jake has delivered school-based support, targeted group programs, and professional development.
Jake is a registered psychologist known for his warm, grounded approach. Founder of Wayfind Psychology and Consulting, he supports children, adolescents, and adults to gain insight into any challenges they're experiencing, and develop practical strategies to navigate them. He provides both in-person and Telehealth support to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, behavioural and social-emotional difficulties, and neurodivergent presentations such as ADHD and autism. Additionally, Jake has delivered school-based support, targeted group programs, and professional development.
0473 172 472 View 0473 172 472
Dr Hana Guo
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Serves Area
Welcome to AMH Psychology, Anxiety Management Hub, a boutique psychology clinic in Melbourne. My name is Dr Hana Guo, and I am Clinical Psychologist trained in EMDR, CBT and ISTDP psychodynamic therapy. I am dedicated to helping my clients see and break free from the unhealthy and often unconscious patterns that keep on repeating. I support both individuals who warrant a mental health diagnosis as well as professionals without any diagnosis (ie., health and mental health practitioners, lawyers, engineers) who are seeking coaching or self improvement to be happier better adjusted individuals.
Welcome to AMH Psychology, Anxiety Management Hub, a boutique psychology clinic in Melbourne. My name is Dr Hana Guo, and I am Clinical Psychologist trained in EMDR, CBT and ISTDP psychodynamic therapy. I am dedicated to helping my clients see and break free from the unhealthy and often unconscious patterns that keep on repeating. I support both individuals who warrant a mental health diagnosis as well as professionals without any diagnosis (ie., health and mental health practitioners, lawyers, engineers) who are seeking coaching or self improvement to be happier better adjusted individuals.
0401 649 365 View 0401 649 365
Joanne Cook
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist. My dog, Blanche, is my trusted colleague, who offers animal assisted therapy. I specialise in child, adolescence and family therapy. Children learn through play which is the cornerstone of my evidence based therapeutic interventions. I offer therapy to adults and families who wish to explore relational patterns, heal trauma and mobilise strengths to enjoy deeper connections and improve family functioning. By cultivating a therapeutic relationship and using curiosity over judgment, I offer a space for you to think about and work towards change.
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist. My dog, Blanche, is my trusted colleague, who offers animal assisted therapy. I specialise in child, adolescence and family therapy. Children learn through play which is the cornerstone of my evidence based therapeutic interventions. I offer therapy to adults and families who wish to explore relational patterns, heal trauma and mobilise strengths to enjoy deeper connections and improve family functioning. By cultivating a therapeutic relationship and using curiosity over judgment, I offer a space for you to think about and work towards change.
(08) 9126 9091 View (08) 9126 9091
Kayla Cutajar
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Kayla is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Open Minds Studios. She has experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting issues. Kayla enjoys helping people understand themselves and their environments better and to feel more empowered in their lives. She finds joy in seeing clients feel more comfortable in themselves and their relationships. Clients who work with Kayla receive an integrated approach to therapeutic care tailored to their needs and interests.
Kayla is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Open Minds Studios. She has experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting issues. Kayla enjoys helping people understand themselves and their environments better and to feel more empowered in their lives. She finds joy in seeing clients feel more comfortable in themselves and their relationships. Clients who work with Kayla receive an integrated approach to therapeutic care tailored to their needs and interests.
(03) 8104 9965 View (03) 8104 9965
Ashlee Hancock - Assessment & Therapy
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Ashlee offers individual therapy for teens and young adults aged 13 - 30 years. She also offers neuroaffirming autism, ADHD and cognitive assessments for children, teens and adults. She is clinical psychologist who has experience in hospital and public mental health systems, providing specialist support for young people experiencing severe and/or complex mental health concerns. She also has experience in leading a team of clinicians.
Ashlee offers individual therapy for teens and young adults aged 13 - 30 years. She also offers neuroaffirming autism, ADHD and cognitive assessments for children, teens and adults. She is clinical psychologist who has experience in hospital and public mental health systems, providing specialist support for young people experiencing severe and/or complex mental health concerns. She also has experience in leading a team of clinicians.
(03) 9020 3705 View (03) 9020 3705
Jesse Muscatello
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), and Online Educator at The University of Melbourne for the Graduate degree in Youth Mental Health. I have several years of experience across public and private mental health settings, as well as teaching university-level psychology subjects at The University of Melbourne and Victoria University. I work to help you uncover and address unconscious emotional patterns that may perpetuate presenting symptoms, getting to the core of your issues with a focus on long-term change.
I am a Clinical Psychologist registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), and Online Educator at The University of Melbourne for the Graduate degree in Youth Mental Health. I have several years of experience across public and private mental health settings, as well as teaching university-level psychology subjects at The University of Melbourne and Victoria University. I work to help you uncover and address unconscious emotional patterns that may perpetuate presenting symptoms, getting to the core of your issues with a focus on long-term change.
0432 171 801 View 0432 171 801
Anneliese Mauro
Counsellor
Online Only
Anneliese supports children, adolescents and adults aged 6 to 65+ experiencing challenges such as trauma/PTSD, grief, life transitions, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, anger, self esteem/ Indentity challenges and mental health concerns. She works collaboratively with each client to understand their unique experiences, strengths and goals. Together, they develop practical ways of thinking and responding that support positive change, confidence and independence. Anneliese offers a warm, safe and non-judgemental space where empathy, curiosity and authenticity guides her practice.
Anneliese supports children, adolescents and adults aged 6 to 65+ experiencing challenges such as trauma/PTSD, grief, life transitions, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, anger, self esteem/ Indentity challenges and mental health concerns. She works collaboratively with each client to understand their unique experiences, strengths and goals. Together, they develop practical ways of thinking and responding that support positive change, confidence and independence. Anneliese offers a warm, safe and non-judgemental space where empathy, curiosity and authenticity guides her practice.
(03) 8104 9401 View (03) 8104 9401
Pucinischi Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Christopher is a registered psychologist with experience working with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, emotional regulation difficulties and workplace/academic stress and burn out. He provides a supportive, caring and non-judgemental space where clients can talk about their concerns freely. It is also important for Christopher to work collaboratively with his clients to set and achieve goals that will make a meaningful difference in their daily lives.
Christopher is a registered psychologist with experience working with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, emotional regulation difficulties and workplace/academic stress and burn out. He provides a supportive, caring and non-judgemental space where clients can talk about their concerns freely. It is also important for Christopher to work collaboratively with his clients to set and achieve goals that will make a meaningful difference in their daily lives.
(03) 7003 2345 View (03) 7003 2345
Bright Psych
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Bright Psych provides a comprehensive psychological service for adolescents and adults.
Bright Psych provides a comprehensive psychological service for adolescents and adults.
(03) 9068 6415 View (03) 9068 6415
Anna Ricciardello
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Anna supports individuals of all ages to navigate life’s challenges with clarity, resilience, and confidence. With nearly 20 years of experience, she draws on evidence-based approaches (CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, mindfulness and trauma-informed frameworks) to create meaningful, lasting change. She works with anxiety, mood challenges, trauma and life transitions. She supports neurodivergent clients with a tailored, strengths-based approach to build self-understanding and create sustainable strategies for wellbeing.
Anna supports individuals of all ages to navigate life’s challenges with clarity, resilience, and confidence. With nearly 20 years of experience, she draws on evidence-based approaches (CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, mindfulness and trauma-informed frameworks) to create meaningful, lasting change. She works with anxiety, mood challenges, trauma and life transitions. She supports neurodivergent clients with a tailored, strengths-based approach to build self-understanding and create sustainable strategies for wellbeing.
0410 643 076 View 0410 643 076
Dr Robert Eres
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a gender affirming clinical psychologist with a primary interest in supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as people in rural and remote areas of Australia.
At the core of my practice is the belief that no two people are the same. As such, I take a person-centred approach to therapy and firmly believe that there is no one-size fits all solution to addressing some of life’s challenges. I work with clients to help unlock their potential, achieve their goals and to feel seen and heard.
I am a gender affirming clinical psychologist with a primary interest in supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as people in rural and remote areas of Australia.
At the core of my practice is the belief that no two people are the same. As such, I take a person-centred approach to therapy and firmly believe that there is no one-size fits all solution to addressing some of life’s challenges. I work with clients to help unlock their potential, achieve their goals and to feel seen and heard.
(03) 7003 2854 View (03) 7003 2854
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.