LGBTQ+ Affirming Psychologists and Therapists in Footscray, VIC

Photo of Toa Thredgold, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Toa Thredgold
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
You might feel anxious, stuck or uncertain about what comes next. Maybe you’re processing grief, identity changes or relationship stress, or you’ve just lost touch with your sense of direction. You value honesty, warmth and real conversation over quick fixes. You want to feel more grounded, confident and connected to who you truly are. You’re not looking to be 'fixed,' but to understand yourself better and move through life with clarity and self-trust.
You might feel anxious, stuck or uncertain about what comes next. Maybe you’re processing grief, identity changes or relationship stress, or you’ve just lost touch with your sense of direction. You value honesty, warmth and real conversation over quick fixes. You want to feel more grounded, confident and connected to who you truly are. You’re not looking to be 'fixed,' but to understand yourself better and move through life with clarity and self-trust.
(03) 8338 1717 View (03) 8338 1717
Photo of Lua Bruckhoff - Calm Centre Therapy, Social Worker, MA, AASW
Calm Centre Therapy
Social Worker, MA, AASW
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
As a queer, bicultural therapist (persian-german), based in Footscray/ Melbourne (Naarm), I provide LGBTQIA+ affirming, culturally responsive therapy and specialise in supporting those who might be questioning their identity, navigating culture, belonging, faith and family expectations.
Together, we'll create a space where we can slow down and make sense of how your experiences have shaped the way you relate to yourself and others. We'll gently explore what matters most to you and your goals for therapy. Drawing on somatic and evidence-based approaches, we'll work at your pace to create change that feels meaningful to you.
As a queer, bicultural therapist (persian-german), based in Footscray/ Melbourne (Naarm), I provide LGBTQIA+ affirming, culturally responsive therapy and specialise in supporting those who might be questioning their identity, navigating culture, belonging, faith and family expectations.
Together, we'll create a space where we can slow down and make sense of how your experiences have shaped the way you relate to yourself and others. We'll gently explore what matters most to you and your goals for therapy. Drawing on somatic and evidence-based approaches, we'll work at your pace to create change that feels meaningful to you.
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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 Takeo Kameoka, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Takeo Kameoka
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
I focus on addressing a range of challenges associated with depression, anxiety, relationship, identity exploration, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attachment and trauma, and navigating life transitions, and I'm dedicated to providing personalised and compassionate care tailored to each participant’s unique needs.
I focus on addressing a range of challenges associated with depression, anxiety, relationship, identity exploration, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attachment and trauma, and navigating life transitions, and I'm dedicated to providing personalised and compassionate care tailored to each participant’s unique needs.
(03) 8338 4427 View (03) 8338 4427
Photo of Callista Goh, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Callista Goh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
Waitlist for new clients
I am a queer-identifying registered psychologist, dedicated to providing trauma-informed, evidence-based care tailored to the unique needs & strengths of each client.
I integrate a range of approaches including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance Commitment Therapy & EMDR. I work with a variety of presentations, but hold special interests in PTSD, Autism and ADHD, Anxiety & Depression. I specialise in working with Neurodivergent, LGBTQ+ and Culturally Diverse Clients.
I am a queer-identifying registered psychologist, dedicated to providing trauma-informed, evidence-based care tailored to the unique needs & strengths of each client.
I integrate a range of approaches including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance Commitment Therapy & EMDR. I work with a variety of presentations, but hold special interests in PTSD, Autism and ADHD, Anxiety & Depression. I specialise in working with Neurodivergent, LGBTQ+ and Culturally Diverse Clients.
(02) 5016 3990 View (02) 5016 3990
Photo of Nathan Smith, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Nathan Smith
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
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 max p castle, Counsellor, ACA-L1
max p castle
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
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.
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Photo of Patrick McIvor, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Patrick McIvor
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a counsellor specialising in trauma, loss, and change, based in Melbourne and available online, Australia-wide. I work with adults during challenging times, offering a supportive space to regain stability, strengthen day to day functioning, and rebuild a sense of direction and identity.
I'm a counsellor specialising in trauma, loss, and change, based in Melbourne and available online, Australia-wide. I work with adults during challenging times, offering a supportive space to regain stability, strengthen day to day functioning, and rebuild a sense of direction and identity.
(03) 7003 2550 View (03) 7003 2550
Photo of Cristiona Guiney, Social Worker, AASW
Cristiona Guiney
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer baddie.
I offer counselling informed by lived experience perspectives, mindful self-compassion 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, chronic pain and neurodivergence.
I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer baddie.
I offer counselling informed by lived experience perspectives, mindful self-compassion 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, chronic pain and neurodivergence.
(03) 8338 1788 View (03) 8338 1788
Photo of Arthur De Jesus, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Arthur De Jesus
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a practitioner, I am trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, queer-friendly, and culturally-responsive.
Thank you for viewing my profile! I'm a registered Clinical Psychologist who is committed to delivering personalised and effective psychological support with a compassionate and client-focused approach to therapy. My practice emphasises individual safety and empowerment within therapy sessions, practical interventions, and acknowledgment of each individual’s unique experiences. I primarily draw on attachment-based, trauma-informed, and cognitive-behavioural perspectives and use a holistic approach to therapy that incorporates thoughts, feelings, body/sensations, and behaviours towards positive outcomes.
As a practitioner, I am trauma-informed, neuro-affirming, queer-friendly, and culturally-responsive.
Thank you for viewing my profile! I'm a registered Clinical Psychologist who is committed to delivering personalised and effective psychological support with a compassionate and client-focused approach to therapy. My practice emphasises individual safety and empowerment within therapy sessions, practical interventions, and acknowledgment of each individual’s unique experiences. I primarily draw on attachment-based, trauma-informed, and cognitive-behavioural perspectives and use a holistic approach to therapy that incorporates thoughts, feelings, body/sensations, and behaviours towards positive outcomes.
(03) 7003 2144 View (03) 7003 2144
Photo of Safaa Hakim, Counsellor, PACFA
Safaa Hakim
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
I am compassionate about guiding my clients to explore their difficulties and strengthen their emotional wellbeing. I provide specific counselling in the areas of anxiety, stress, depression, and relationships; as well as behavioural and other cognitive issues, offering a wide range of counselling support to meet the needs of clients and an organisation’s employees.
I am compassionate about guiding my clients to explore their difficulties and strengthen their emotional wellbeing. I provide specific counselling in the areas of anxiety, stress, depression, and relationships; as well as behavioural and other cognitive issues, offering a wide range of counselling support to meet the needs of clients and an organisation’s employees.
(03) 9034 5950 View (03) 9034 5950
Photo of Isy Stoner - Counselling and Somatics with Isy Stoner, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Counselling and Somatics with Isy Stoner
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Magdalena Stanojcic, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Magdalena Stanojcic
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Footscray, VIC 3011
Do you sometimes feel stuck in your life, struggling through your relationships or you feel anxious and depressed and cannot explain why? Would you like to discover more about yourself, find your personal truths and find clarity, resources, and direction in your life? Engaging in therapy can help you through this process, it can facilitate change and support you on your journey toward a meaningful and free life.
Do you sometimes feel stuck in your life, struggling through your relationships or you feel anxious and depressed and cannot explain why? Would you like to discover more about yourself, find your personal truths and find clarity, resources, and direction in your life? Engaging in therapy can help you through this process, it can facilitate change and support you on your journey toward a meaningful and free life.
(03) 8592 4808 View (03) 8592 4808
Photo of Renee Hughes, Social Worker, AMHSW
Renee Hughes
Social Worker, AMHSW
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
(03) 8595 4462 View (03) 8595 4462
Photo of Samantha Fredericks, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Samantha Fredericks
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am a general psychologist with an MBA and have diverse experience in clinical and business settings. I work one-on-one with adults and adolescents with anxiety and panic disorders, depression, overwhelm, attention deficits, trauma, PTSD and complex presentations. I believe that we experience psychological distress when there’s a disconnect between where we find ourselves in our lives and relationships right now, what has happened to us in the past, and what we worry may happen in the future.
I am a general psychologist with an MBA and have diverse experience in clinical and business settings. I work one-on-one with adults and adolescents with anxiety and panic disorders, depression, overwhelm, attention deficits, trauma, PTSD and complex presentations. I believe that we experience psychological distress when there’s a disconnect between where we find ourselves in our lives and relationships right now, what has happened to us in the past, and what we worry may happen in the future.
(03) 7020 2710 View (03) 7020 2710
Photo of Natalie Susan Burfurd - Heart and Hope Counselling, Social Worker, AMHSW
Heart and Hope Counselling
Social Worker, AMHSW
Footscray, VIC 3011
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Ballarat and Footscray areas as well as online. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over thirty years of counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is affordable to people who need it.
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Ballarat and Footscray areas as well as online. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over thirty years of counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is affordable to people who need it.
(03) 8658 2101 View (03) 8658 2101
Photo of Lidija Trpcevska - Bright Psych, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bright Psych
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Footscray, VIC 3011
Bright Psych provides a comprehensive psychological service for adolescents and adults.
Bright Psych provides a comprehensive psychological service for adolescents and adults.
(03) 9068 6415 View (03) 9068 6415
Roberto Cusati
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Understanding that human experience is complex and individualised, my therapeutic approach revolves around person-centred counselling. This can be achieved through a range of therapeutic modalities designed to engage with individuals during therapeutic sessions. Interested in helping support people in being able to have the best possible meaningful individual life journey that is important to them.
Understanding that human experience is complex and individualised, my therapeutic approach revolves around person-centred counselling. This can be achieved through a range of therapeutic modalities designed to engage with individuals during therapeutic sessions. Interested in helping support people in being able to have the best possible meaningful individual life journey that is important to them.
(02) 9158 6466 View (02) 9158 6466
Photo of Anna Inkster, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Anna Inkster
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
Feeling emotionally exhausted, depressed, burnt out or anxious takes up a lot of energy and mental space. I meet people everyday who are struggling to feel better, they are at the mercy of their thoughts and are living on auto pilot. Our mind is constantly selling us stories and putting meaning to our experiences; it is the meaning we attach to circumstances, situations and experiences that can cause the suffering. Counselling can help with this! If you have been putting this off and just surviving, this is a sign to reach out for help-and yes, I do believe in signs!
Feeling emotionally exhausted, depressed, burnt out or anxious takes up a lot of energy and mental space. I meet people everyday who are struggling to feel better, they are at the mercy of their thoughts and are living on auto pilot. Our mind is constantly selling us stories and putting meaning to our experiences; it is the meaning we attach to circumstances, situations and experiences that can cause the suffering. Counselling can help with this! If you have been putting this off and just surviving, this is a sign to reach out for help-and yes, I do believe in signs!
(03) 6146 1669 View (03) 6146 1669
Photo of Walter Carter, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Walter Carter
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Footscray, VIC 3011
Sometimes we require a helping hand when adjusting to an ever-changing world. I want to help you develop skills and tools to create sustainable fulfilment within your life. Common challenges we all face include issues with self-esteem, processing negative or strong emotions, work-life balance, adjusting to change, developing meaningful relationships, and discovering our purpose. In addition, stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and interpersonal conflict can obstruct our ability to experience life to its fullest potential. You have the ability to unlock your own power, and I want to help you discover that inner strength.
Sometimes we require a helping hand when adjusting to an ever-changing world. I want to help you develop skills and tools to create sustainable fulfilment within your life. Common challenges we all face include issues with self-esteem, processing negative or strong emotions, work-life balance, adjusting to change, developing meaningful relationships, and discovering our purpose. In addition, stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and interpersonal conflict can obstruct our ability to experience life to its fullest potential. You have the ability to unlock your own power, and I want to help you discover that inner strength.
0480 137 195 View 0480 137 195

See more therapy options for Footscray

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.