LGBTQ+ Affirming Psychologists and Therapists in Brighton East, VIC

Photo of Susanne Goldie, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Susanne Goldie
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brighton East, VIC 3187
I am a psychologist and clinical hypnotherapist with over 15 years experience supporting people to optimise their well-being. I work with a wide range of adult individuals in an inclusive, holistic way to understand each person and support them in achieving their goals.
I am a psychologist and clinical hypnotherapist with over 15 years experience supporting people to optimise their well-being. I work with a wide range of adult individuals in an inclusive, holistic way to understand each person and support them in achieving their goals.
0409 006 125 View 0409 006 125
Photo of Melis Topsahin, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Melis Topsahin
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
I assist clients that require therapy in the areas of anxiety, substance abuse (and/or other addictions), depression. My focus is on working with individual and couple's towards personal development and goal setting. Every client is unique, hence, requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. As a therapist, i work with various approaches such as: CBT, ACT, humanistic approach and TRTP (trauma therapy) amongst many other(s).
I assist clients that require therapy in the areas of anxiety, substance abuse (and/or other addictions), depression. My focus is on working with individual and couple's towards personal development and goal setting. Every client is unique, hence, requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. As a therapist, i work with various approaches such as: CBT, ACT, humanistic approach and TRTP (trauma therapy) amongst many other(s).
(02) 4504 0146 View (02) 4504 0146
Photo of Adam Szmerling, Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Adam Szmerling
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Serves Area
My ideal clients are individual adults and couples seeking relief from anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or patterns that keep repeating. They may feel stuck, wanting more meaning, peace, and self understanding. They value depth, authenticity, and want to explore not just symptoms but the root causes of their struggles to create lasting emotional change.
My ideal clients are individual adults and couples seeking relief from anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or patterns that keep repeating. They may feel stuck, wanting more meaning, peace, and self understanding. They value depth, authenticity, and want to explore not just symptoms but the root causes of their struggles to create lasting emotional change.
(03) 8771 5463 View (03) 8771 5463
Photo of Bianca Lebenholc, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bianca Lebenholc
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
With extensive experience across diverse settings, Bianca has a special interest in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community as well as addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and OCD.
Bianca's commitment to inclusivity is evident in her affirming approach, ensuring individuals of all backgrounds, gender identities, and sexual orientations receive the compassionate care they deserve.
With extensive experience across diverse settings, Bianca has a special interest in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community as well as addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and OCD.
Bianca's commitment to inclusivity is evident in her affirming approach, ensuring individuals of all backgrounds, gender identities, and sexual orientations receive the compassionate care they deserve.
(03) 8771 5049 View (03) 8771 5049

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Isy Stoner - Counselling and Somatics with Isy Stoner, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Counselling and Somatics with Isy Stoner
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Isy supports client's in feeling more connected, safe and inspired. In therapy Isy will hold space for you, and accompany you to navigate finding more ease and contentment in the face of challenges, change and conflict. Isy aims to equip clients with embodied skills for wellbeing and resilience. Isy holds the intention that over time, client's might feel less need for regular individual therapy, and instead hopes to help them access a diverse network of support in their lives.
Isy supports client's in feeling more connected, safe and inspired. In therapy Isy will hold space for you, and accompany you to navigate finding more ease and contentment in the face of challenges, change and conflict. Isy aims to equip clients with embodied skills for wellbeing and resilience. Isy holds the intention that over time, client's might feel less need for regular individual therapy, and instead hopes to help them access a diverse network of support in their lives.
0433 532 932 View 0433 532 932
Photo of Emma Love, Social Worker, AASW
Emma Love
Social Worker, AASW
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
I deeply enjoy working with adults & LGBTQ+ people who are navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, and trauma.
As a queer-identifying psychotherapist, I believe everyone deserves safe & inclusive mental health care that affirms all aspects of their identity. I am committed to offering my clients a non-judgemental space where, together, we can explore tools that help you feel more grounded, supported and connected.
I deeply enjoy working with adults & LGBTQ+ people who are navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, and trauma.
As a queer-identifying psychotherapist, I believe everyone deserves safe & inclusive mental health care that affirms all aspects of their identity. I am committed to offering my clients a non-judgemental space where, together, we can explore tools that help you feel more grounded, supported and connected.
0480 801 257 View 0480 801 257
Photo of Nelly Uhlenkott, Psychotherapist, MA, AASW
Nelly Uhlenkott
Psychotherapist, MA, AASW
Brunswick, VIC 3056
While many of my clients identify as LGBTQIA+, I welcome clients of all backgrounds.
Therapy can help you better understand yourself and your patterns - and get back in the driver's seat of your life, where you can make conscious choices instead of running on "autopilot". Finding new ways forward can transform your relationship with yourself and with others, and your outlook on life. I'm here to guide that process.
While many of my clients identify as LGBTQIA+, I welcome clients of all backgrounds.
Therapy can help you better understand yourself and your patterns - and get back in the driver's seat of your life, where you can make conscious choices instead of running on "autopilot". Finding new ways forward can transform your relationship with yourself and with others, and your outlook on life. I'm here to guide that process.
(03) 8595 5018 View (03) 8595 5018
Photo of Megan Wilson - Unison Mental Health, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Unison Mental Health
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
We work with anxiety, depression, and trauma — including EMDR and DBT — and specialise in relationship dynamics: polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQIA+ experiences, Kink and neurodivergent presentations.
We have a diverse team of counsellors, psychotherapists, psychologists, relationship therapists and an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, with advanced training across modalities such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, IFS‑informed work, psychedelic integration, Gestalt, Schema and emotion‑focused therapies.
We work with anxiety, depression, and trauma — including EMDR and DBT — and specialise in relationship dynamics: polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQIA+ experiences, Kink and neurodivergent presentations.
We have a diverse team of counsellors, psychotherapists, psychologists, relationship therapists and an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, with advanced training across modalities such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, IFS‑informed work, psychedelic integration, Gestalt, Schema and emotion‑focused therapies.
0480 706 922 View 0480 706 922
Photo of El Byrne, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
El Byrne
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Carlton North, VIC 3054
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.
El has worked with a variety of presentations including complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, critical incident response, pain management, and interpersonal relationship difficulties. She has a strong interest in the intersection of neurodiversity and complex trauma.
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.
El has worked with a variety of presentations including complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, critical incident response, pain management, and interpersonal relationship difficulties. She has a strong interest in the intersection of neurodiversity and complex trauma.
(02) 9100 0596 View (02) 9100 0596
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 Hiro McLeman, Counsellor, PACFA
Hiro McLeman
Counsellor, PACFA
Thornbury, VIC 3071
Hello I'm Hiro, I'm a queer, non-binary, neurodivergent, mixed Japanese and white therapist.
I can provide support around sexuality, gender, relationships including ethical non-monogamy, racial and cultural identity, depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem and other mental health challenges you may face. I focus on creating a non-judgmental, affirmative space for you to explore what’s troubling you. I welcome your faith and spiritual practice.
Hello I'm Hiro, I'm a queer, non-binary, neurodivergent, mixed Japanese and white therapist.
I can provide support around sexuality, gender, relationships including ethical non-monogamy, racial and cultural identity, depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem and other mental health challenges you may face. I focus on creating a non-judgmental, affirmative space for you to explore what’s troubling you. I welcome your faith and spiritual practice.
0403 971 788 View 0403 971 788
Photo of Anine Cummins - Anine Cummins (they/them), Counsellor, ACA-L2
Anine Cummins (they/them)
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
I work with LGBTIQ+ clients, including trans and non-binary people, people with traumatic histories, including sexual assault and abuse, people with dissociative disorders, including DID, people with ADHD, autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out. My client says 'I came to you thinking that i needed to be fixed, that i just needed to work harder on myself so that all of my problems could be solved and then i could start 'living my real life.' I'm starting to learn that maybe it's ok that i don't always have my sht together. I’m human and that’s ok."
I work with LGBTIQ+ clients, including trans and non-binary people, people with traumatic histories, including sexual assault and abuse, people with dissociative disorders, including DID, people with ADHD, autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out. My client says 'I came to you thinking that i needed to be fixed, that i just needed to work harder on myself so that all of my problems could be solved and then i could start 'living my real life.' I'm starting to learn that maybe it's ok that i don't always have my sht together. I’m human and that’s ok."
(03) 8338 1789 View (03) 8338 1789
Photo of Sophie Manente, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Sophie Manente
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am queer and love working with people from LGBTIQA+ community.
I work with my clients in a human, down to earth way. I see us as two people working together to find what will help make things better for you. We'll look at more than just your symptoms; we'll look at your life experiences, your relationships, your family & ancestral history, social & environmental systems around you, and how your body is responding to all of this. I tend to work deeply and do more than just teach you strategies. I am interested in supporting you to get to the root cause of things, because I believe that is where we find liberation and self-compassion.
I am queer and love working with people from LGBTIQA+ community.
I work with my clients in a human, down to earth way. I see us as two people working together to find what will help make things better for you. We'll look at more than just your symptoms; we'll look at your life experiences, your relationships, your family & ancestral history, social & environmental systems around you, and how your body is responding to all of this. I tend to work deeply and do more than just teach you strategies. I am interested in supporting you to get to the root cause of things, because I believe that is where we find liberation and self-compassion.
(03) 4505 2412 View (03) 4505 2412
Photo of Eden Brown, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Eden Brown
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor with a PACFA‑accredited Master's degree in Gestalt Therapy. I hold certification in trauma-informed care, decolonising mental health and family violence (identification and assessment). I provide a confidential, judgement free space for people experiencing relationship strain, work‑related stress or burnout, intergenerational patterns, anxiety, depression, loss and grief, trauma-related symptoms, and those feeling a sense of stuck-ness in their life. My practice is geared toward participants motivated to engage actively in the therapy process for focused, results‑oriented support.
I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor with a PACFA‑accredited Master's degree in Gestalt Therapy. I hold certification in trauma-informed care, decolonising mental health and family violence (identification and assessment). I provide a confidential, judgement free space for people experiencing relationship strain, work‑related stress or burnout, intergenerational patterns, anxiety, depression, loss and grief, trauma-related symptoms, and those feeling a sense of stuck-ness in their life. My practice is geared toward participants motivated to engage actively in the therapy process for focused, results‑oriented support.
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Photo of Iuliia Kapinos, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Iuliia Kapinos
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Online Only
We are born in relationship, we are wounded in relationship, and we can be healed in relationship. Each person's journey is different, and my therapeutic approach is tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, trauma or seeking personal growth, I am here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
We are born in relationship, we are wounded in relationship, and we can be healed in relationship. Each person's journey is different, and my therapeutic approach is tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, trauma or seeking personal growth, I am here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
(03) 7500 5600 View (03) 7500 5600
Photo of Corey Ferguson, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Corey Ferguson
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Brunswick, VIC 3056
Hi, I'm Corey (He/Him), I'm a passionate registered psychologist dedicated to supporting neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities.
My main goal is to create a warm, welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent community. I enjoy helping clients embrace and show kindness to the parts of themselves they find challenging, while providing them with the tools to navigate life's twists and turns.
Hi, I'm Corey (He/Him), I'm a passionate registered psychologist dedicated to supporting neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities.
My main goal is to create a warm, welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent community. I enjoy helping clients embrace and show kindness to the parts of themselves they find challenging, while providing them with the tools to navigate life's twists and turns.
(02) 9159 6647 View (02) 9159 6647
Photo of David Mackay, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
David Mackay
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
West Melbourne, VIC 3003
○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
Photo of Rhi Gibson - Rhi Gibson Trauma Informed Counselling, Social Worker, MSc, AASW
Rhi Gibson Trauma Informed Counselling
Social Worker, MSc, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Rhi (they/them), a queer, non-binary mental health social worker counsellor dedicated to supporting LGBTQA+ young people and adults.
Support is tailored to your individual needs. I can accept Mental Health Care Plan referrals. I specialise in relationship work with self in developing self-esteem, self-worth, and self- confidence. As an experienced mental health clinician, I am here to walk with you through difficult life transitions with emotional, psychological and practical strategies.
Hi, I’m Rhi (they/them), a queer, non-binary mental health social worker counsellor dedicated to supporting LGBTQA+ young people and adults.
Support is tailored to your individual needs. I can accept Mental Health Care Plan referrals. I specialise in relationship work with self in developing self-esteem, self-worth, and self- confidence. As an experienced mental health clinician, I am here to walk with you through difficult life transitions with emotional, psychological and practical strategies.
(07) 3132 1774 View (07) 3132 1774
Photo of Olivia Piplios, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Olivia Piplios
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Essendon North, VIC 3041
Her areas of interest include men’s mental health, LGBTQIA+ mental health, relationship/interpersonal difficulties, anxiety disorders, self-esteem, self-worth and identity, and depression.
She has experience working with people across a variety of settings, including private practice, schools, and through NDIS. Olivia also has a background in working with children and adolescents, utilising a warm, playful, and relaxed approach to offer young people a comfortable therapeutic space.
Her areas of interest include men’s mental health, LGBTQIA+ mental health, relationship/interpersonal difficulties, anxiety disorders, self-esteem, self-worth and identity, and depression.
She has experience working with people across a variety of settings, including private practice, schools, and through NDIS. Olivia also has a background in working with children and adolescents, utilising a warm, playful, and relaxed approach to offer young people a comfortable therapeutic space.
(03) 9007 2474 View (03) 9007 2474
Photo of Stina Boro, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Stina Boro
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Online Only
Her work is queer-affirming and intersectional.
Stina is a registered counsellor, certified somatic therapist, IFS-trained and trauma-informed, and yoga and mindfulness teacher. With over a decade of experience in mental health and community services, Stina offers a grounded, integrative approach to counselling that honours the complexity of the human experience. She draws on somatic therapy, IFS, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation to support healing and growth. Sessions may include mindfulness, grounding, or guided visualisation—offered gently and with consent. Stina believes healing is not about fixing what is broken, but rediscovering what is already whole.
Her work is queer-affirming and intersectional.
Stina is a registered counsellor, certified somatic therapist, IFS-trained and trauma-informed, and yoga and mindfulness teacher. With over a decade of experience in mental health and community services, Stina offers a grounded, integrative approach to counselling that honours the complexity of the human experience. She draws on somatic therapy, IFS, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation to support healing and growth. Sessions may include mindfulness, grounding, or guided visualisation—offered gently and with consent. Stina believes healing is not about fixing what is broken, but rediscovering what is already whole.
0449 885 651 View 0449 885 651
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.