LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Footscray, VIC

Photo of Isabelle Stoner - Somatic Psychotherapy Counselling Yoga, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Isabelle Stoner - Somatic Psychotherapy Counselling Yoga
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Specialising in mental-health aware, queer-affirming and trauma-informed frameworks, Isy’s approach to both counselling and embodiment practices is holistic and relational.
With training founded in Humanistic and Person Centred theory, Isy believes each individual is the expert of their own life and experience. In therapy Isy will hold space for you, and support you as together you navigate finding more ease and contentment in the face of challenges, change and conflict.
Specialising in mental-health aware, queer-affirming and trauma-informed frameworks, Isy’s approach to both counselling and embodiment practices is holistic and relational.
With training founded in Humanistic and Person Centred theory, Isy believes each individual is the expert of their own life and experience. In therapy Isy will hold space for you, and support you as together you navigate finding more ease and contentment in the face of challenges, change and conflict.
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Photo of Kevin Vun - inner haven therapy, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
inner haven therapy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Serves Area
With a focus on the queer/ gay, BIPOC, Asian, and male communities, I offer a safe space where clients can explore the full spectrum of the human experience.
Seeking holistic support? I'm an integrative counsellor with a BA in psychology & sociology & a master's in clinical counselling. Through collaboration, education, & empowerment, I provide a tailored approach using diverse therapeutic modalities. Let's embark on a transformative journey towards your well-being and growth!
With a focus on the queer/ gay, BIPOC, Asian, and male communities, I offer a safe space where clients can explore the full spectrum of the human experience.
Seeking holistic support? I'm an integrative counsellor with a BA in psychology & sociology & a master's in clinical counselling. Through collaboration, education, & empowerment, I provide a tailored approach using diverse therapeutic modalities. Let's embark on a transformative journey towards your well-being and growth!
(02) 9100 0511 View (02) 9100 0511
Photo of Felix Perigrie, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Felix Perigrie
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
Supporting queer and neurodivergent adults navigating stress, anxiety, ADHD, and self-limiting beliefs.
How much time do you spend feeling exhausted? Overwhelmed? Telling yourself “as soon as I have some free time, I’ll…” but that time never comes? The endless “stuff” you’re juggling might be due to a shake up in your life, or maybe you’ve spent most of your life trying to figure out how you’re always solving problems but nothing seems to change. Either way, you’ve noticed the pattern and you’re not going to let it continue. It’s time to prioritise what’s important to you, figure out where your energy has gone, and find the ways to get it back.
Supporting queer and neurodivergent adults navigating stress, anxiety, ADHD, and self-limiting beliefs.
How much time do you spend feeling exhausted? Overwhelmed? Telling yourself “as soon as I have some free time, I’ll…” but that time never comes? The endless “stuff” you’re juggling might be due to a shake up in your life, or maybe you’ve spent most of your life trying to figure out how you’re always solving problems but nothing seems to change. Either way, you’ve noticed the pattern and you’re not going to let it continue. It’s time to prioritise what’s important to you, figure out where your energy has gone, and find the ways to get it back.
(03) 8592 9249 View (03) 8592 9249
Photo of Hana Weeramanthri, Counsellor, MC
Hana Weeramanthri
Counsellor, MC
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
Waitlist for new clients
Passionate about neurodiversity affirming, queer affirming and culturally safe practice, as a member of the neurodiverse (ADHD/ASD), queer and POC communities.
My therapeutic style includes a mix of attachment theory based approaches, and internal family systems, somatic experiencing and psychodynamic therapies. I utilise non-Western conceptualisations of health, mental health, and wellbeing and am deeply influenced by First Nations knowledge of healing, community, kinship and Country. I aim to work with clients' own generational wisdoms, knowledges, and strengths, to improve wellbeing outcomes. I work to interrogate the effects of colonisation, systemic oppression and marginalisation on individuals and communities, as well as the limitations and harms of Western mental health services.
Passionate about neurodiversity affirming, queer affirming and culturally safe practice, as a member of the neurodiverse (ADHD/ASD), queer and POC communities.
My therapeutic style includes a mix of attachment theory based approaches, and internal family systems, somatic experiencing and psychodynamic therapies. I utilise non-Western conceptualisations of health, mental health, and wellbeing and am deeply influenced by First Nations knowledge of healing, community, kinship and Country. I aim to work with clients' own generational wisdoms, knowledges, and strengths, to improve wellbeing outcomes. I work to interrogate the effects of colonisation, systemic oppression and marginalisation on individuals and communities, as well as the limitations and harms of Western mental health services.
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Photo of Sophie Manente, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Sophie Manente
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am queer and bring a lived experience of neurodiversity and complex trauma.
I work with my clients in a human, down to earth way. I see us as two people working together to find what will make things better for you. We'll look at more than just your symptoms; we'll look at your life experiences, your family & ancestral history, societal & 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 getting to the root cause of things, because I believe that is where we find liberation and self-compassion.
I am queer and bring a lived experience of neurodiversity and complex trauma.
I work with my clients in a human, down to earth way. I see us as two people working together to find what will make things better for you. We'll look at more than just your symptoms; we'll look at your life experiences, your family & ancestral history, societal & 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 getting 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 Rocco Vincent Mammoliti, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rocco Vincent Mammoliti
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
He is sensitive to the issues young people face today, and how these issues uniquely present within heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ communities.
Rocco has a particular way of expressing and embodying authenticity and compassion; by engaging with each individual and helping them to see themselves through his compassionate lens, he hopes to connect people with their inherent sense of worthiness and integrity.
He is sensitive to the issues young people face today, and how these issues uniquely present within heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ communities.
Rocco has a particular way of expressing and embodying authenticity and compassion; by engaging with each individual and helping them to see themselves through his compassionate lens, he hopes to connect people with their inherent sense of worthiness and integrity.
(03) 7037 6915 View (03) 7037 6915
Photo of Mish Kumar-Jonson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Mish Kumar-Jonson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
As a non-binary, queer, neurodivergent and disabled plural, I bring my own living and lived experience to my supporting people and their stories.
I love supporting BIPOC, neurodivergent and LGBTIQA+ folks to navigate through a range of traumas and distress such as intergenerational, personal or community traumas. People are often curious about how their body might hold onto emotions, feelings, memories or experiences and how these manifest in everyday interactions both internally and externally which I support them to explore. Folks who are a great fit for me are attempting to bring healing and understanding to difficult moments in their life in a way that allows space for peace and calm in both the body and mind
As a non-binary, queer, neurodivergent and disabled plural, I bring my own living and lived experience to my supporting people and their stories.
I love supporting BIPOC, neurodivergent and LGBTIQA+ folks to navigate through a range of traumas and distress such as intergenerational, personal or community traumas. People are often curious about how their body might hold onto emotions, feelings, memories or experiences and how these manifest in everyday interactions both internally and externally which I support them to explore. Folks who are a great fit for me are attempting to bring healing and understanding to difficult moments in their life in a way that allows space for peace and calm in both the body and mind
(03) 8592 7434 View (03) 8592 7434
Photo of Lauren Breen (The Iceberg Foundation), Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Lauren Breen (The Iceberg Foundation)
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
I specialise in supporting neurodiverse and LGBTQIA+ young people and adults exploring their identity.
Hi there, my name is Lauren (she/her). I am a genuine and compassionate counsellor that believes in your capacity for connection, growth and positive change. I support individuals to increase self-awareness and improve wellbeing by assisting them to identify their strengths and values, and build confidence and motivation to navigate psychological and systemic barriers. I work from a trauma-informed, person-centred, and social justice framework which means that I strive to honour, respect and affirm your unique identity and the way you move through the world.
I specialise in supporting neurodiverse and LGBTQIA+ young people and adults exploring their identity.
Hi there, my name is Lauren (she/her). I am a genuine and compassionate counsellor that believes in your capacity for connection, growth and positive change. I support individuals to increase self-awareness and improve wellbeing by assisting them to identify their strengths and values, and build confidence and motivation to navigate psychological and systemic barriers. I work from a trauma-informed, person-centred, and social justice framework which means that I strive to honour, respect and affirm your unique identity and the way you move through the world.
(03) 8594 0105 View (03) 8594 0105
Photo of Lua Bruckhoff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Lua Bruckhoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Lua identifies as queer and bi-cultural from refugee background and is passionate about supporting LGBTQI+ and culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
Accredited Mental Health Social Workers are trained in providing evidence based therapy while also addressing the context of the larger systems that impact on your wellbeing, eg your family, community and social systems. Our first session will be an introduction to the role you play within those systems and help us set therapeutic goals to work towards
Lua identifies as queer and bi-cultural from refugee background and is passionate about supporting LGBTQI+ and culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
Accredited Mental Health Social Workers are trained in providing evidence based therapy while also addressing the context of the larger systems that impact on your wellbeing, eg your family, community and social systems. Our first session will be an introduction to the role you play within those systems and help us set therapeutic goals to work towards
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Photo of Amanda D'Costa - AJ D'Costa Counselling , Counsellor, MA, PACFA
AJ D'Costa Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with a range of challenges including anxiety/panic, culture/religion-specific issues, LGBTQIA+ themes, life transitions & grief/loss.
I use a decolonised approach that is rooted in non-judgementally understanding the context of a person's identity and difficulties. I integrate Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) & Narrative Therapy, as well as Buddhist philosophy, practical meditation and expressive arts exercises.
I work with a range of challenges including anxiety/panic, culture/religion-specific issues, LGBTQIA+ themes, life transitions & grief/loss.
I use a decolonised approach that is rooted in non-judgementally understanding the context of a person's identity and difficulties. I integrate Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) & Narrative Therapy, as well as Buddhist philosophy, practical meditation and expressive arts exercises.
(03) 9909 8812 View (03) 9909 8812
Photo of Jigisha Sanghvi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Jigisha Sanghvi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am LGBTQIA+ and neuro-diverse affirming practitioner.
I am an accredited EMDR therapist and Medicare recognised Clinical Social Worker. Off late, you may have noticed emotions and thoughts continue to rule your life, and no matter how hard you try, it never feels 'good enough'. You find yourself stuck in the cycle of 'wanting to please others' while feeling unseen and unheard. You now know that your anxiety and need for control is no longer serving you. You want to start honouring yourself and your needs, even when if it feels hard.
I am LGBTQIA+ and neuro-diverse affirming practitioner.
I am an accredited EMDR therapist and Medicare recognised Clinical Social Worker. Off late, you may have noticed emotions and thoughts continue to rule your life, and no matter how hard you try, it never feels 'good enough'. You find yourself stuck in the cycle of 'wanting to please others' while feeling unseen and unheard. You now know that your anxiety and need for control is no longer serving you. You want to start honouring yourself and your needs, even when if it feels hard.
(03) 8338 1847 View (03) 8338 1847
Photo of Jordan Rainone, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jordan Rainone
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Jordan has a strong interest in working with individuals with anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, relationships difficulties, neurodiversity, LGBTQIA and those navigating difficult life changes and transitions.
Jordan is a registered psychologist dedicated to supporting individuals from all backgrounds by fostering an authentic and supportive therapeutic relationship. He is committed to working alongside his clients, empowering them to navigate challenges and achieve their personal goals. Understanding the vulnerability that often accompanies seeking mental health support. Jordan ensures that his practice is a safe, welcoming space where clients can progress at their own pace. With experience working with a diverse range of individuals, he recognises that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process.
Jordan has a strong interest in working with individuals with anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, relationships difficulties, neurodiversity, LGBTQIA and those navigating difficult life changes and transitions.
Jordan is a registered psychologist dedicated to supporting individuals from all backgrounds by fostering an authentic and supportive therapeutic relationship. He is committed to working alongside his clients, empowering them to navigate challenges and achieve their personal goals. Understanding the vulnerability that often accompanies seeking mental health support. Jordan ensures that his practice is a safe, welcoming space where clients can progress at their own pace. With experience working with a diverse range of individuals, he recognises that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process.
(03) 9007 2183 View (03) 9007 2183
Photo of Danielle Melia - Affirming Wellness, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Danielle Melia - Affirming Wellness
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The intersection of the following specific areas, or simply one of these more nuanced areas; people coping with trauma, understanding and managing their neurodivergence, the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing sexual health and intimacy issues, and trans-friendly and knowledgeable healthcare.
There's an assumption that we should already be great at life, despite not generally being taught the skills to be as effective, confident, emotionally stable or as clear-headed as we want to be. I believe that the right therapist can help your unique brain and nervous system learn those skills in a way that is more easeful and works best for you.
The intersection of the following specific areas, or simply one of these more nuanced areas; people coping with trauma, understanding and managing their neurodivergence, the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing sexual health and intimacy issues, and trans-friendly and knowledgeable healthcare.
There's an assumption that we should already be great at life, despite not generally being taught the skills to be as effective, confident, emotionally stable or as clear-headed as we want to be. I believe that the right therapist can help your unique brain and nervous system learn those skills in a way that is more easeful and works best for you.
(03) 5905 7089 View (03) 5905 7089
Photo of Emily Barber, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Emily Barber
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I also offer inclusive support for those within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hey, I’m Emily! I’m a registered psychologist with a warm, person-centred approach, and I provide both face-to-face and online therapy for teens and young adults, typically between the ages of 13 and 30. I’ve created a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. I draw on evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, and narrative therapy to support you in making sense of life’s challenges.
I also offer inclusive support for those within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hey, I’m Emily! I’m a registered psychologist with a warm, person-centred approach, and I provide both face-to-face and online therapy for teens and young adults, typically between the ages of 13 and 30. I’ve created a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. I draw on evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, and narrative therapy to support you in making sense of life’s challenges.
0420 558 547 View 0420 558 547
Photo of Mikel Moss - Mikel Moss - Healing Stage Counselling Service , Counsellor, MA
Mikel Moss - Healing Stage Counselling Service
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with people from diverse backgrounds who are learning how to live and thrive with a variety of issues, changes, and challenges in their lives. I primarily work within BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities, but I am open and able to work with people outside of this area as well. I utilize talk and creative expression, as a way to assist in areas such as setting goals, gaining a deeper understanding of self, moving through and healing trauma, and much more. Check out my website: healingstagemelb.com
I work with people from diverse backgrounds who are learning how to live and thrive with a variety of issues, changes, and challenges in their lives. I primarily work within BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities, but I am open and able to work with people outside of this area as well. I utilize talk and creative expression, as a way to assist in areas such as setting goals, gaining a deeper understanding of self, moving through and healing trauma, and much more. Check out my website: healingstagemelb.com
(03) 8203 5993 View (03) 8203 5993
Photo of Annabel Chan, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Annabel Chan
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Online Only
Annabel works with adolescents, couples, families, and adults who are sexuality and gender diverse, neurodiverse, alternative occupation and lifestyles, with attachment vulnerabilities, have forensic needs, or are a target of problem behaviour (stalking, family violence, online harassment, etc).
Annabel works with adolescents, couples, families, and adults who are sexuality and gender diverse, neurodiverse, alternative occupation and lifestyles, with attachment vulnerabilities, have forensic needs, or are a target of problem behaviour (stalking, family violence, online harassment, etc).
0413 887 975 View 0413 887 975
Photo of Nathan Smith, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Nathan Smith
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
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
Photo of Mishma Kumar-Jonson - The Iceberg Foundation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
The Iceberg Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
The Iceberg Foundation is a LGBTIQA+ owned and operated mental health service. We are dedicated to providing an understanding, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to those seeking support. Our aim is to provide a safe space for people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life to work on and through their past, present and future. ​ At The Iceberg Foundation, we strive to work in an intersectional manner, recognising and respecting people's individual lived and living experiences. We believe that everyone deserves high quality care and we strive to provide the best possible mental health services to the people we work with
The Iceberg Foundation is a LGBTIQA+ owned and operated mental health service. We are dedicated to providing an understanding, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to those seeking support. Our aim is to provide a safe space for people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life to work on and through their past, present and future. ​ At The Iceberg Foundation, we strive to work in an intersectional manner, recognising and respecting people's individual lived and living experiences. We believe that everyone deserves high quality care and we strive to provide the best possible mental health services to the people we work with
(03) 8338 4427 View (03) 8338 4427
Photo of Asa Chen - Asa Chen LCSW, SEP, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Asa Chen LCSW, SEP, AMHSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am a somatic psychotherapist and Licensed Clinical SW who works with people who live with complex mental health conditions and trauma symptoms, which may show up as syndromes like CFS or Fibromyalgia. My clients tend to have difficulty managing distressing and intense emotions, find it hard to stay present, and have a hard time fostering connection with others. They have usually experienced years of talk therapy (ie CBT, ACT, etc.) and still find themselves working hard to function. My aim is to work toward re-organising/regulating your physiology (which impacts your symptom expression) and increases your capacity/functioning.
I am a somatic psychotherapist and Licensed Clinical SW who works with people who live with complex mental health conditions and trauma symptoms, which may show up as syndromes like CFS or Fibromyalgia. My clients tend to have difficulty managing distressing and intense emotions, find it hard to stay present, and have a hard time fostering connection with others. They have usually experienced years of talk therapy (ie CBT, ACT, etc.) and still find themselves working hard to function. My aim is to work toward re-organising/regulating your physiology (which impacts your symptom expression) and increases your capacity/functioning.
0481 153 010 View 0481 153 010
Photo of Nick Chien-Hung Koyang, Counsellor, AASW
Nick Chien-Hung Koyang
Counsellor, AASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
Nick Koyang is a dedicated and experienced counsellor providing support to adults of all ages in Melbourne. With years of professional expertise across diverse sectors—acute mental health, aged care, education, and private practice—Nick offers personalised counselling for individuals and couples. He is an Accredited Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Whether you are facing personal challenges, relationship difficulties, or simply seeking clarity and growth, Nick provides a safe and supportive space to navigate life's complexities.
Nick Koyang is a dedicated and experienced counsellor providing support to adults of all ages in Melbourne. With years of professional expertise across diverse sectors—acute mental health, aged care, education, and private practice—Nick offers personalised counselling for individuals and couples. He is an Accredited Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Whether you are facing personal challenges, relationship difficulties, or simply seeking clarity and growth, Nick provides a safe and supportive space to navigate life's complexities.
0468 863 690 View 0468 863 690
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LGBTQ+ Counsellors

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialised training, either during their degree programme or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalisation in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialised training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.