LGBTQ+ Affirming Psychologists and Therapists in Cheltenham, VIC

Litsa Pavlou
Counsellor, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Litsa can provide counselling to individuals and couples. She sees clients in-person in Melbourne or by telehealth. She can support people dealing with conflict in relationships, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, grief or mental health challenges caused by chronic illness (including carer support). Litsa has worked with people of all ages and from different backgrounds. Litsa can also provide counselling in the Greek language.
Litsa can provide counselling to individuals and couples. She sees clients in-person in Melbourne or by telehealth. She can support people dealing with conflict in relationships, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, grief or mental health challenges caused by chronic illness (including carer support). Litsa has worked with people of all ages and from different backgrounds. Litsa can also provide counselling in the Greek language.
0466 400 232 View 0466 400 232
Neurogenesis Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham, VIC 3192
Accepting New Clients ! - Jaclyn is a Clinical psychologist and aims to provide therapy with a difference. Our work together will be person focused and beautifully supportive however this will be a therapeutic approach to see transformation! I have a focus on intervention; my patients come to me because they want to see change and are tired of talking about their week on loop; so, whilst our work together may be hard and sometimes very challenging, with support together we will make that change that you have been waiting to achieve.
Accepting New Clients ! - Jaclyn is a Clinical psychologist and aims to provide therapy with a difference. Our work together will be person focused and beautifully supportive however this will be a therapeutic approach to see transformation! I have a focus on intervention; my patients come to me because they want to see change and are tired of talking about their week on loop; so, whilst our work together may be hard and sometimes very challenging, with support together we will make that change that you have been waiting to achieve.
View
Sofy Zlatkin Zahavi
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Cheltenham, VIC 3192
Every family has a story, and sometimes it reaches a turning point. Whether you come as an individual, a couple, or a family, therapy can be a space to slow down, talk things through, and make sense of what’s happening beneath the surface. I work with families, couples, children, and adolescents navigating parenting challenges, communication difficulties, separation, and emotional overwhelm. Family therapy may involve individual sessions, parent or couple work, or the whole family. My approach integrates family therapy with child-inclusive mediation, always keeping children’s emotional safety and wellbeing in mind.
Every family has a story, and sometimes it reaches a turning point. Whether you come as an individual, a couple, or a family, therapy can be a space to slow down, talk things through, and make sense of what’s happening beneath the surface. I work with families, couples, children, and adolescents navigating parenting challenges, communication difficulties, separation, and emotional overwhelm. Family therapy may involve individual sessions, parent or couple work, or the whole family. My approach integrates family therapy with child-inclusive mediation, always keeping children’s emotional safety and wellbeing in mind.
(03) 8771 5797 View (03) 8771 5797
Natalie Sarah Cohen
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a seasoned counselor, I endeavor to bring a wealth of empathy and insight to guide individuals on their journey to self-discovery and healing. With a blend of modalities and evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I create a safe space for clients to explore their emotions and experiences. I am dedicated to fostering resilience and empowering others to overcome obstacles. Known for a compassionate approach and a commitment to continuous professional development, I offer support and connection, helping individuals navigate life
As a seasoned counselor, I endeavor to bring a wealth of empathy and insight to guide individuals on their journey to self-discovery and healing. With a blend of modalities and evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I create a safe space for clients to explore their emotions and experiences. I am dedicated to fostering resilience and empowering others to overcome obstacles. Known for a compassionate approach and a commitment to continuous professional development, I offer support and connection, helping individuals navigate life
(03) 7500 5004 View (03) 7500 5004
Melissa Thompson
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Serves Area
Trying to find a therapist through an online site is a daunting task, but the fact that you're looking means that you're that much closer to feeling better. We all feel overwhelmed at times during our lives. There's no reason to feel alone. I'm here to sit beside you as we uncover and explore your inner resources together.
Trying to find a therapist through an online site is a daunting task, but the fact that you're looking means that you're that much closer to feeling better. We all feel overwhelmed at times during our lives. There's no reason to feel alone. I'm here to sit beside you as we uncover and explore your inner resources together.
(03) 7500 5860 View (03) 7500 5860
Port Phillip Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
Port Phillip Psychology is a friendly practice in Melbourne's Bayside suburbs of St Kilda and Chelsea. We provide counselling for children, adults and couples across a broad range of issues including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, grief, trauma, infidelity, and relationship issues. We offer assessments at our Chelsea clinic for ADHD and ASD. Our psychologists use a variety of therapies including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, Mindfulness, Solution Focussed Therapy and Gottman relationship counselling. You can discover more in the team section on our website.
Port Phillip Psychology is a friendly practice in Melbourne's Bayside suburbs of St Kilda and Chelsea. We provide counselling for children, adults and couples across a broad range of issues including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, grief, trauma, infidelity, and relationship issues. We offer assessments at our Chelsea clinic for ADHD and ASD. Our psychologists use a variety of therapies including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, Mindfulness, Solution Focussed Therapy and Gottman relationship counselling. You can discover more in the team section on our website.
(03) 8797 2849 View (03) 8797 2849
Opening Doors Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Leah Smith, Director and Principal Psychologist of "Opening Doors Psychology" has a passion for working with adolescents (14+ years), young adults/adults, and also works with some couples. Leah is particularly interested in working with eating disorders and body image concerns, as well as, anxiety disorders, trauma, neurodivergence and interpersonal/relational difficulties. Leah strives to provide a safe space for clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, guide clients to and equip them with the necessary skills, to enable them to manage their symptoms and unique difficulties, and address ongoing problematic patterns.
Leah Smith, Director and Principal Psychologist of "Opening Doors Psychology" has a passion for working with adolescents (14+ years), young adults/adults, and also works with some couples. Leah is particularly interested in working with eating disorders and body image concerns, as well as, anxiety disorders, trauma, neurodivergence and interpersonal/relational difficulties. Leah strives to provide a safe space for clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, guide clients to and equip them with the necessary skills, to enable them to manage their symptoms and unique difficulties, and address ongoing problematic patterns.
View
Brand Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
I believe that loving yourself is the foundation for healthy, fulfilling relationships with others. Life can be challenging, and it’s easy to lose your sense of direction, confidence, or self-worth along the way. With over 18 years of experience, I support clients with warmth, empathy, and unconditional understanding, creating a safe space to explore challenges, heal, and grow. Together, we work to help you reconnect with your true self, build self-compassion, and gain the clarity and tools you need to navigate life’s difficulties, and to attain your goals, be they emotional balance, stronger relationships or personal growth.
I believe that loving yourself is the foundation for healthy, fulfilling relationships with others. Life can be challenging, and it’s easy to lose your sense of direction, confidence, or self-worth along the way. With over 18 years of experience, I support clients with warmth, empathy, and unconditional understanding, creating a safe space to explore challenges, heal, and grow. Together, we work to help you reconnect with your true self, build self-compassion, and gain the clarity and tools you need to navigate life’s difficulties, and to attain your goals, be they emotional balance, stronger relationships or personal growth.
(03) 7500 5808 View (03) 7500 5808
Brett Fernandez
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Warm, responsive, and individualised psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, and groups—wherever you are on your mental health journey. Whether you’re feeling stuck, anxious, depressed, stressed, overwhelmed in your relationships, or simply needing space to reflect, I offer a safe place to explore what’s shaped you and how you’d like to grow. Together, we’ll build insight, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with your values to help you live more clearly, confidently, and easily. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about discovering what’s possible when you’re heard, understood, and supported in your challenges!
Warm, responsive, and individualised psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, and groups—wherever you are on your mental health journey. Whether you’re feeling stuck, anxious, depressed, stressed, overwhelmed in your relationships, or simply needing space to reflect, I offer a safe place to explore what’s shaped you and how you’d like to grow. Together, we’ll build insight, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with your values to help you live more clearly, confidently, and easily. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about discovering what’s possible when you’re heard, understood, and supported in your challenges!
(03) 8771 5671 View (03) 8771 5671
Penelope Lovegrove
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Currently accepting new clients. I pride myself on developing a supportive, collaborative and compassionate relationship with my clients, focusing on delivering psychological treatments based on current evidence. I work with individuals aged 17 and above across a range of issues. I am particularly interested in anxiety and related disorders in men and the intersection of mental health and menopause in women. I also provide psychotherapy and coaching for the management of ADHD in adults.
Currently accepting new clients. I pride myself on developing a supportive, collaborative and compassionate relationship with my clients, focusing on delivering psychological treatments based on current evidence. I work with individuals aged 17 and above across a range of issues. I am particularly interested in anxiety and related disorders in men and the intersection of mental health and menopause in women. I also provide psychotherapy and coaching for the management of ADHD in adults.
(03) 7500 5592 View (03) 7500 5592
Raissa Donadon Berne
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a psychologist with experience in helping people with a diverse range of mental health concerns and life challenges, such as depression, insomnia, anxiety, panic and grief, among others. I am committed to keeping a stance of curiosity, humbleness and collaboration in therapy and I am interested in working with people who want to find ways to make life more meaningful. I focus on building a strong, supportive relationship with my clients to help them explore their feelings and experiences in a safe and contained space. I stand for social justice, value diversity and use an intersectionality approach.
I am a psychologist with experience in helping people with a diverse range of mental health concerns and life challenges, such as depression, insomnia, anxiety, panic and grief, among others. I am committed to keeping a stance of curiosity, humbleness and collaboration in therapy and I am interested in working with people who want to find ways to make life more meaningful. I focus on building a strong, supportive relationship with my clients to help them explore their feelings and experiences in a safe and contained space. I stand for social justice, value diversity and use an intersectionality approach.
(03) 8771 4586 View (03) 8771 4586
The Neuroaffirmation Station (Belinda Maher)
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Belinda is a child & adolescent mental health social worker with significant expertise in mental health and trauma therapy. She specialises in supporting young people & their families/carers through a compassionate, evidence-informed approach. Passionate about working from a trauma-informed and neuroaffirming lens, Bel draws on her extensive clinical background, which includes roles as a teacher, a dedicated trauma therapist, and a senior clinician in a neuropsychiatry unit at a leading children’s hospital. Her work is grounded in a nuanced understanding of developmental trauma and mental health challenges.
Belinda is a child & adolescent mental health social worker with significant expertise in mental health and trauma therapy. She specialises in supporting young people & their families/carers through a compassionate, evidence-informed approach. Passionate about working from a trauma-informed and neuroaffirming lens, Bel draws on her extensive clinical background, which includes roles as a teacher, a dedicated trauma therapist, and a senior clinician in a neuropsychiatry unit at a leading children’s hospital. Her work is grounded in a nuanced understanding of developmental trauma and mental health challenges.
(03) 8771 4745 View (03) 8771 4745
Kaz Vilkhuis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I like to support individuals with understanding and accommodating their unique neurodivergent profile, social and communication challenges, emotional regulation, exploring gender identity, low mood, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and navigating life transitions. I can offer weekly or fortnightly sessions for a short block with 1-2 specific goals (such as under a mental health care plan) or longer term support for complex difficulties and to make deeper changes. I am also experienced in and enjoy conducting assessments of Autism, ADHD, and mental health conditions.
I like to support individuals with understanding and accommodating their unique neurodivergent profile, social and communication challenges, emotional regulation, exploring gender identity, low mood, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and navigating life transitions. I can offer weekly or fortnightly sessions for a short block with 1-2 specific goals (such as under a mental health care plan) or longer term support for complex difficulties and to make deeper changes. I am also experienced in and enjoy conducting assessments of Autism, ADHD, and mental health conditions.
View

More Therapists Nearby

Sophie Manente
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Epping, VIC 3076
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
max p castle
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Brunswick, VIC 3056
One of the miraculous things about being queer or trans is that our experiences do not fit in any box.
My practice is grounded in a belief that healing is relational and change is possible. I am deeply curious about what pain tells us about our values and our experiences of harm and injustice. I can support you to make meaning of your experiences, integrate the lessons and let go of what is no longer serving you.
One of the miraculous things about being queer or trans is that our experiences do not fit in any box.
My practice is grounded in a belief that healing is relational and change is possible. I am deeply curious about what pain tells us about our values and our experiences of harm and injustice. I can support you to make meaning of your experiences, integrate the lessons and let go of what is no longer serving you.
View
Transformative Health AU
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middle Park, VIC 3206
You already know what you should do. Eat better, move more, manage stress. But knowledge isn't the problem. The gap between knowing and doing reveals something deeper: unaddressed anxiety, trauma, hormonal imbalances, or chronic inflammation your body's been telling you about for years. I'm Dr. Zambrano (MBBS, Masters Counselling & Psychotherapy), integrating medical-lifestyle science, and psychotherapy. I don't just hand you a diet plan. We uncover why change hasn't stuck, then build sustainable transformation through evidence-based medicine, and therapeutic support for the emotional roots of physical illness.
You already know what you should do. Eat better, move more, manage stress. But knowledge isn't the problem. The gap between knowing and doing reveals something deeper: unaddressed anxiety, trauma, hormonal imbalances, or chronic inflammation your body's been telling you about for years. I'm Dr. Zambrano (MBBS, Masters Counselling & Psychotherapy), integrating medical-lifestyle science, and psychotherapy. I don't just hand you a diet plan. We uncover why change hasn't stuck, then build sustainable transformation through evidence-based medicine, and therapeutic support for the emotional roots of physical illness.
(03) 8338 1126 View (03) 8338 1126
Emma Love
Social Worker, AASW
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
I support LGBTQ+ adults, neurodivergent adults, and people experiencing anxiety, burnout, complex trauma, chronic stress, perfectionism, and major life transitions.
I offer long-term therapy for individuals seeking more than short-term solutions. I integrate EMDR and relational, evidence-based psychotherapy to help clients process difficult experiences and create lasting change. Many of my clients are thoughtful, high-achieving adults who value a consistent therapeutic relationship.
I support LGBTQ+ adults, neurodivergent adults, and people experiencing anxiety, burnout, complex trauma, chronic stress, perfectionism, and major life transitions.
I offer long-term therapy for individuals seeking more than short-term solutions. I integrate EMDR and relational, evidence-based psychotherapy to help clients process difficult experiences and create lasting change. Many of my clients are thoughtful, high-achieving adults who value a consistent therapeutic relationship.
0480 801 257 View 0480 801 257
Jessica Cove Holistic Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
My practice is a LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC safe space and I pay deep respect and celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
Welcome— I’m Jessica, a holistic counsellor and meditation therapist. I specialise in supporting individuals facing challenges involving perfectionism, burnout, chronic illness, overwhelm and anxiety. In addition to nine years of private practice counselling, lived experience with chronic illness and decades spent as a classical ballet dancer inform my gentle, compassion-focused therapeutic work. I am passionate about creating meaningful change for individuals and their loved ones, and I am so grateful to be living my ikigai.
My practice is a LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC safe space and I pay deep respect and celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
Welcome— I’m Jessica, a holistic counsellor and meditation therapist. I specialise in supporting individuals facing challenges involving perfectionism, burnout, chronic illness, overwhelm and anxiety. In addition to nine years of private practice counselling, lived experience with chronic illness and decades spent as a classical ballet dancer inform my gentle, compassion-focused therapeutic work. I am passionate about creating meaningful change for individuals and their loved ones, and I am so grateful to be living my ikigai.
(07) 5240 9171 View (07) 5240 9171
Cristiona Guiney
Social Worker, AASW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer person.
I offer counselling informed by Intentional Peer Support, Mindful Self-Compassion, Internal Family Systems and my own lived and living experience. I help clients work through sudden life changes, coming out and exploring gender, learning to live alongside suicidality, anxiety, depression chronic pain and neurodivergence.
I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer person.
I offer counselling informed by Intentional Peer Support, Mindful Self-Compassion, Internal Family Systems and my own lived and living experience. I help clients work through sudden life changes, coming out and exploring gender, learning to live alongside suicidality, anxiety, depression chronic pain and neurodivergence.
(03) 8338 1788 View (03) 8338 1788
Callista Goh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a queer-identifying and disabled reg
I integrate multiple approaches including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Internal Family Systems, CBT, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Somatic Therapies & EMDR. I work with a variety of presentations, but hold special interests in PTSD, Autism & ADHD, OCD, Anxiety & Depression. I specialise in working with Neurodivergent, LGBTQ+ & Culturally Diverse Clients.
I am a queer-identifying and disabled reg
I integrate multiple approaches including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Internal Family Systems, CBT, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Somatic Therapies & EMDR. I work with a variety of presentations, but hold special interests in PTSD, Autism & ADHD, OCD, Anxiety & Depression. I specialise in working with Neurodivergent, LGBTQ+ & Culturally Diverse Clients.
View
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.