LGBTQ+ Affirming Psychologists and Therapists in East Melbourne, VIC

Susie Kim
Psychotherapist, PACFA
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Hello my name is Susie and I am a culturally responsive, trauma-informed psychotherapist. I work with a range of issues that contribute to symptoms of anxiety, depression, and a feeling of being stuck in unwanted patterns of behaviour. These include attachment patterns and relationships, trauma, self-esteem, challenging family dynamics, sense of identity, life transitions, grief and loss. Understanding the mind/body as one dynamic system, I work in a collaborative way that supports lasting changes in self-understanding, relationships, emotional resilience, and inner strength.
Hello my name is Susie and I am a culturally responsive, trauma-informed psychotherapist. I work with a range of issues that contribute to symptoms of anxiety, depression, and a feeling of being stuck in unwanted patterns of behaviour. These include attachment patterns and relationships, trauma, self-esteem, challenging family dynamics, sense of identity, life transitions, grief and loss. Understanding the mind/body as one dynamic system, I work in a collaborative way that supports lasting changes in self-understanding, relationships, emotional resilience, and inner strength.
0408 286 501 View 0408 286 501
Liss Smith
Counsellor, PACFA
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
My mission is to create a safe space for people from all walks of life, particularly for those who come from marginalised communities and diverse cultural backgrounds. Whether it's issues with self-esteem, relationships, identity, or mood that's bringing you to therapy, I will provide warm and caring support as the foundation of our work together. I believe in affirming and harnessing your strengths to help you navigate the difficulties you are facing and move towards your goals.
My mission is to create a safe space for people from all walks of life, particularly for those who come from marginalised communities and diverse cultural backgrounds. Whether it's issues with self-esteem, relationships, identity, or mood that's bringing you to therapy, I will provide warm and caring support as the foundation of our work together. I believe in affirming and harnessing your strengths to help you navigate the difficulties you are facing and move towards your goals.
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Petra Gillian
Psychotherapist, PACFA
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
My specialities include: LGBTQIA+ community mental health, women's mental health, PMDD, ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, stress, loneliness, and more.
Perhaps you just need someone to really hear you; maybe you're exhausted from showing up every day for work, families, friends, & partners and find little space left for your own emotions to be held. You might need a space that is entirely for you, where you can know that every part of you will be held gently, and without judgment.
My specialities include: LGBTQIA+ community mental health, women's mental health, PMDD, ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, stress, loneliness, and more.
Perhaps you just need someone to really hear you; maybe you're exhausted from showing up every day for work, families, friends, & partners and find little space left for your own emotions to be held. You might need a space that is entirely for you, where you can know that every part of you will be held gently, and without judgment.
(03) 8771 5379 View (03) 8771 5379
Sayaka Sayeed
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I can support clients navigating ADHD, Autism and executive functioning challenges, late diagnosis, anxiety and emotional regulation, burnout and overwhelm, cultural identity and belonging, relationships and communication (including couples), attachment and relational trauma, shame and perfectionism, queer identity, and life transitions.
I work with adults who may appear to be coping externally but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected internally. Many are navigating ADHD or neurodivergence, identity, queerness, cultural experiences, relationship patterns, burnout, or life transitions. My approach is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and neuro-affirming, integrating CBT, ACT, IFS parts work, attachment-based therapy, and practical ADHD coaching. Using collaborative intersectional frameworks while maintaining authenticity, empathy and curiosity, we make sense of patterns, reduce shame, and build realistic, sustainable ways of moving forward.
I can support clients navigating ADHD, Autism and executive functioning challenges, late diagnosis, anxiety and emotional regulation, burnout and overwhelm, cultural identity and belonging, relationships and communication (including couples), attachment and relational trauma, shame and perfectionism, queer identity, and life transitions.
I work with adults who may appear to be coping externally but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected internally. Many are navigating ADHD or neurodivergence, identity, queerness, cultural experiences, relationship patterns, burnout, or life transitions. My approach is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and neuro-affirming, integrating CBT, ACT, IFS parts work, attachment-based therapy, and practical ADHD coaching. Using collaborative intersectional frameworks while maintaining authenticity, empathy and curiosity, we make sense of patterns, reduce shame, and build realistic, sustainable ways of moving forward.
(03) 7003 2356 View (03) 7003 2356
Francesca Lion
Psychotherapist
Online Only
My clients often feel held back by intense physical or emotional responses that limits their enjoyment and potential in life. Many come to me because anxiety or fears—specifically dental, medical, or flight anxiety—prevent them from accessing healthcare or living fully. Others are exhausted by insomnia or low self-confidence. If your "fight or flight" response is constantly overreacting, or if talk therapy felt supportive but didn't help you to change your emotional patterns and responses, we may be a good fit. I help you bridge the gap between the mind and the nervous system, updating subconscious patterns with curiosity and calm.
My clients often feel held back by intense physical or emotional responses that limits their enjoyment and potential in life. Many come to me because anxiety or fears—specifically dental, medical, or flight anxiety—prevent them from accessing healthcare or living fully. Others are exhausted by insomnia or low self-confidence. If your "fight or flight" response is constantly overreacting, or if talk therapy felt supportive but didn't help you to change your emotional patterns and responses, we may be a good fit. I help you bridge the gap between the mind and the nervous system, updating subconscious patterns with curiosity and calm.
(03) 6134 8607 View (03) 6134 8607
George Nelson
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Serves Area
George is a qualified psychotherapist, coach, clinical counsellor, relationship therapist, educator, speech therapist, voice production and training consultant. George has worked with children, teenagers and adults to help them with communication, speech, voice production and dramatic expression for presentation, (certain clients include news-presenters, actors, reporters and radio announcers). Working with individuals, couples & adolescents, George has developed a specialisation for relationship/couples counselling, family therapy as well as Men’s Health (for men, their partners and families).
George is a qualified psychotherapist, coach, clinical counsellor, relationship therapist, educator, speech therapist, voice production and training consultant. George has worked with children, teenagers and adults to help them with communication, speech, voice production and dramatic expression for presentation, (certain clients include news-presenters, actors, reporters and radio announcers). Working with individuals, couples & adolescents, George has developed a specialisation for relationship/couples counselling, family therapy as well as Men’s Health (for men, their partners and families).
(03) 7302 8896 View (03) 7302 8896
Kevin Vun
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
14 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a gay man of colour, I also work alongside queer communities, men, Asian & culturally diverse clients (CALD).
With 11+ years’ experience, a BA in Psychology & Sociology, Master’s in Clinical Counselling & Level 4 ACA membership, I integrate diverse methods to meet the full spectrum of human experience, guiding clarity, healing & lasting growth. With a focus on education, empowerment, & collaboration, our sessions strive to help you attain your therapeutic goals.
As a gay man of colour, I also work alongside queer communities, men, Asian & culturally diverse clients (CALD).
With 11+ years’ experience, a BA in Psychology & Sociology, Master’s in Clinical Counselling & Level 4 ACA membership, I integrate diverse methods to meet the full spectrum of human experience, guiding clarity, healing & lasting growth. With a focus on education, empowerment, & collaboration, our sessions strive to help you attain your therapeutic goals.
(02) 9100 0511 View (02) 9100 0511
Nathan Smith
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help. I also facilitate Dungeons and Dragons Group Therapy sessions for clients wanting to use play and roleplay therapy toward their healing. This is a great way to boost self-esteem and confidence, work through anxiety and depression, and process trauma.
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help. I also facilitate Dungeons and Dragons Group Therapy sessions for clients wanting to use play and roleplay therapy toward their healing. This is a great way to boost self-esteem and confidence, work through anxiety and depression, and process trauma.
(03) 8594 4097 View (03) 8594 4097
Danu Sivanathan
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Danu is a Melbourne-based psychologist who believes therapy is a paradox of acceptance and challenge. It is a puzzle to be solved with patients who have some psychic or social injury and are looking for someone to help them accept both who they are, and who they can be. Danu has a PhD (Clinical Psychology) and was a lecturer and a clinician in justice and hospital settings. Danu is also expert in psychological assessments.
Danu is a Melbourne-based psychologist who believes therapy is a paradox of acceptance and challenge. It is a puzzle to be solved with patients who have some psychic or social injury and are looking for someone to help them accept both who they are, and who they can be. Danu has a PhD (Clinical Psychology) and was a lecturer and a clinician in justice and hospital settings. Danu is also expert in psychological assessments.
0490 833 820 View 0490 833 820
Bilal Reda
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I am a Melbourne-based clinical psychologist with a curiosity for people and their patterning. I see therapy as the play and poetics between two strangers in service of healing.
I am a Melbourne-based clinical psychologist with a curiosity for people and their patterning. I see therapy as the play and poetics between two strangers in service of healing.
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Fiona Andrew
Psychologist, PsyBA General
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
With a focus on healing from trauma and grief, I work with adults experiencing a wide range of concerns, including mood difficulties, anxiety, relationship challenges, emotion dysregulation, and difficulty navigating life transitions and challenges. I have a particular interest (from lived experience) in supporting women who have lost their mothers, whether through death or relationship rupture. I offer person‑centred, trauma‑informed care and draw on a range of evidence‑based approaches, including EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness‑based interventions, somatic therapies, and attachment‑focused frameworks.
With a focus on healing from trauma and grief, I work with adults experiencing a wide range of concerns, including mood difficulties, anxiety, relationship challenges, emotion dysregulation, and difficulty navigating life transitions and challenges. I have a particular interest (from lived experience) in supporting women who have lost their mothers, whether through death or relationship rupture. I offer person‑centred, trauma‑informed care and draw on a range of evidence‑based approaches, including EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness‑based interventions, somatic therapies, and attachment‑focused frameworks.
0409 173 460 View 0409 173 460
Dr Meredith Leigh Falkiner
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I’m a highly trained and experienced psychologist, holding a doctorate in forensic psychology, I work with a diverse range of adult clients. I strive to help you understand and process your experiences. I focus on working with trauma, including PTSD, complex PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, dissociation, and traumatic early life events. I employ a variety of evidence-based therapies, such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, Solutions Focused Therapy and Schema Therapy to facilitate a comprehensive exploration of your past while finding practical strategies for healing.
I’m a highly trained and experienced psychologist, holding a doctorate in forensic psychology, I work with a diverse range of adult clients. I strive to help you understand and process your experiences. I focus on working with trauma, including PTSD, complex PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, dissociation, and traumatic early life events. I employ a variety of evidence-based therapies, such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, Solutions Focused Therapy and Schema Therapy to facilitate a comprehensive exploration of your past while finding practical strategies for healing.
0477 579 469 View 0477 579 469
Dave Mussoff
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
3 Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I work with adults who often feel stuck in recurring patterns—like anxiety, low mood, or unhelpful relationship habits—and seek deeper understanding and lasting change. They want to break free from these cycles, feel more confident, and build healthier connections. Their goal is often to heal past wounds, gain resilience, and live with greater self-awareness and purpose.
I work with adults who often feel stuck in recurring patterns—like anxiety, low mood, or unhelpful relationship habits—and seek deeper understanding and lasting change. They want to break free from these cycles, feel more confident, and build healthier connections. Their goal is often to heal past wounds, gain resilience, and live with greater self-awareness and purpose.
(03) 9419 7172 View (03) 9419 7172
Luminare Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I am passionate about working with adults presenting with a range of issues, particularly with anxiety, LGBTQIA+/gender diversity, women's mental health, Culturally and Linguistically Diversity (CALD) issues, and intersectional experiences (i.e. those who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community while navigating cultural or religious pressure).
My approach as a therapist is respectful, curious, culturally responsive and inclusive. I bring empathy, humour, open communication and positive regard to each therapeutic relationship.
I am passionate about working with adults presenting with a range of issues, particularly with anxiety, LGBTQIA+/gender diversity, women's mental health, Culturally and Linguistically Diversity (CALD) issues, and intersectional experiences (i.e. those who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community while navigating cultural or religious pressure).
My approach as a therapist is respectful, curious, culturally responsive and inclusive. I bring empathy, humour, open communication and positive regard to each therapeutic relationship.
Harry Morris
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
He works with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and provides gender affirming care.
Emotion dysregulation is an overlapping trait in BPD, Autism and ADHD. Harry provides DBT and ACT coping strategies to handle uncertainty and overthinking, associated with having these diagnoses. He is socio-politically informed and engaged in hearing about how your unique life experiences interact with the current situation you are going through.
He works with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and provides gender affirming care.
Emotion dysregulation is an overlapping trait in BPD, Autism and ADHD. Harry provides DBT and ACT coping strategies to handle uncertainty and overthinking, associated with having these diagnoses. He is socio-politically informed and engaged in hearing about how your unique life experiences interact with the current situation you are going through.
(03) 7076 3400 View (03) 7076 3400
Sophia Robinson
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Waitlist for new clients
Sophia is a psychotherapist in private practice who works with individuals and couples. As an Integrative Psychotherapist, Sophia works collaboratively with a relational focus to accommodate the individual needs of her clients. She hopes to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to engage in meaningful personal exploration. Working with an awareness of both mind and body, Sophia believes strongly in our innate capacity to create lasting personal change.
Sophia is a psychotherapist in private practice who works with individuals and couples. As an Integrative Psychotherapist, Sophia works collaboratively with a relational focus to accommodate the individual needs of her clients. She hopes to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to engage in meaningful personal exploration. Working with an awareness of both mind and body, Sophia believes strongly in our innate capacity to create lasting personal change.
(03) 7003 2375 View (03) 7003 2375
Michelle Chen
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
I work with relationship and relational issues, trauma and emotional regulation, cross-cultural and international couples, LGBTQ concerns, life transitions, identity exploration, stress, anxiety, and intimacy or communication difficulties.
My ideal clients are individuals and couples who feel emotionally disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in repeating patterns. They may be healing from trauma, navigating cross-cultural relationships, or struggling with anxiety, burnout, or low self-worth. Many long for deeper connection, calm, and authenticity. They want to understand themselves, rebuild trust, and find balance in mind, body, and spirit through a holistic approach that integrates emotional awareness, mindfulness, and practical tools for lasting change.
I work with relationship and relational issues, trauma and emotional regulation, cross-cultural and international couples, LGBTQ concerns, life transitions, identity exploration, stress, anxiety, and intimacy or communication difficulties.
My ideal clients are individuals and couples who feel emotionally disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in repeating patterns. They may be healing from trauma, navigating cross-cultural relationships, or struggling with anxiety, burnout, or low self-worth. Many long for deeper connection, calm, and authenticity. They want to understand themselves, rebuild trust, and find balance in mind, body, and spirit through a holistic approach that integrates emotional awareness, mindfulness, and practical tools for lasting change.
(03) 7500 5455 View (03) 7500 5455
Tim Fraser
Psychotherapist, PACFA
5 Endorsed
East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Do you frequently worry that your romantic partner won’t care about you as much as you care about them? Or that they won't love you for who you are or be there for you if you open up to them? If you're hoping to feel safe, loved, and accepted in your relationship or friendships, but you can never find people who make you feel this or you never give them the chance to do so, you likely have an attachment issue. I specialise in working with insecure attachment styles, working to help clients find security in a relationship for the first time and to develop a healthier, kinder view of themselves.
Do you frequently worry that your romantic partner won’t care about you as much as you care about them? Or that they won't love you for who you are or be there for you if you open up to them? If you're hoping to feel safe, loved, and accepted in your relationship or friendships, but you can never find people who make you feel this or you never give them the chance to do so, you likely have an attachment issue. I specialise in working with insecure attachment styles, working to help clients find security in a relationship for the first time and to develop a healthier, kinder view of themselves.
(03) 8338 1266 View (03) 8338 1266
Taash Balakas
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Let’s be honest. Walking into therapy can feel intimidating. The old-school image of psychology is still very “serious face, intimidating suit, big words you didn’t ask for.” That’s not what happens here. I’m a psychologist who genuinely believes therapy shouldn’t feel like you’re being analysed under fluorescent lighting. It should feel collaborative, clear & human. You deserve support that makes sense in real life. No "hacks". My approach is simple. I get to know you properly. We figure out what’s getting in your way. And we build tools that actually work in your day-to-day life. No unnecessary jargon.
Let’s be honest. Walking into therapy can feel intimidating. The old-school image of psychology is still very “serious face, intimidating suit, big words you didn’t ask for.” That’s not what happens here. I’m a psychologist who genuinely believes therapy shouldn’t feel like you’re being analysed under fluorescent lighting. It should feel collaborative, clear & human. You deserve support that makes sense in real life. No "hacks". My approach is simple. I get to know you properly. We figure out what’s getting in your way. And we build tools that actually work in your day-to-day life. No unnecessary jargon.
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Natasha Lama
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Natasha is a registered psychotherapist with a Master's in Counselling. Natasha enjoys engaging with clients through her warm, humorous style fostering a collaborative approach. Being raised within a Malaysian-Indian community gave Natasha an understanding and appreciation of the unique intricacies that exist within diverse communities. Her commitment to cultural sensitivity, community-based value systems and sex-positivity ensures that clients from various backgrounds feel understood and supported.
Natasha is a registered psychotherapist with a Master's in Counselling. Natasha enjoys engaging with clients through her warm, humorous style fostering a collaborative approach. Being raised within a Malaysian-Indian community gave Natasha an understanding and appreciation of the unique intricacies that exist within diverse communities. Her commitment to cultural sensitivity, community-based value systems and sex-positivity ensures that clients from various backgrounds feel understood and supported.
(03) 9111 2692 View (03) 9111 2692
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.