LGBTQ+ Affirming Psychologists and Therapists in Highett, VIC

Photo of Adam Szmerling, Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Adam Szmerling
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Highett, VIC 3190
My ideal clients are individual adults and couples seeking relief from anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or patterns that keep repeating. They may feel stuck, wanting more meaning, peace, and self understanding. They value depth, authenticity, and want to explore not just symptoms but the root causes of their struggles to create lasting emotional change.
My ideal clients are individual adults and couples seeking relief from anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or patterns that keep repeating. They may feel stuck, wanting more meaning, peace, and self understanding. They value depth, authenticity, and want to explore not just symptoms but the root causes of their struggles to create lasting emotional change.
(03) 8771 5463 View (03) 8771 5463
Photo of Dr Chris Trewavas, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Chris Trewavas
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use evidence-based healthcare strategies to give people a set of skills they can take away with them and apply in everyday life.
I use evidence-based healthcare strategies to give people a set of skills they can take away with them and apply in everyday life.
(03) 7500 5866 View (03) 7500 5866
Photo of Daliya Greenfeld - Dr Daliya Greenfeld Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Daliya Greenfeld Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a sole practitioner, which means you can engage with me directly, eliminating the need to go through a receptionist or admin. I believe in the importance of building rapport with my patients and providing them with a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to navigate the journey to improved mental and emotional well-being. I have extensive experience providing psychological support to clients across the lifespan. I am experienced in working with children, adolescents and adults presenting with ADHD, Autism, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, and depression and supporting adjustments to life changes.
I am a sole practitioner, which means you can engage with me directly, eliminating the need to go through a receptionist or admin. I believe in the importance of building rapport with my patients and providing them with a safe, non-judgmental space where we can work together to navigate the journey to improved mental and emotional well-being. I have extensive experience providing psychological support to clients across the lifespan. I am experienced in working with children, adolescents and adults presenting with ADHD, Autism, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, and depression and supporting adjustments to life changes.
(03) 5907 3717 View (03) 5907 3717
Photo of Natalie Sarah Cohen, Counsellor, ACA-L2
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
Photo of Penelope Lovegrove, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
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
Photo of Melissa Thompson, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lexie Ashwell-Jones - The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones), Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones)
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Online Only
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
(02) 9100 0765 View (02) 9100 0765
Photo of Dr Bella Marker, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Bella Marker
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Middle Park, VIC 3206
I adopt this approach with all of my clients and interweave this with other evidence-based treatments such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and LGBTQ affirmative therapy.
Hello and welcome – My name is Bella; I am a clinical psychologist. I work with clients who experience negative self-talk. Many of us walk around with negative views of ourselves; which can lead to depression, anxiety, eating disorders and a wide range of other symptoms. I enjoy helping clients make sense of their negative inner voice - whether this was shaped by childhood trauma/neglect or a feeling of being different (for example growing up with ADHD, or growing up in a marginalised community such as LGBTIQA+ folks). The clients I see not only want to reduce their symptoms, but also wish to start seeing themselves more positively.
I adopt this approach with all of my clients and interweave this with other evidence-based treatments such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and LGBTQ affirmative therapy.
Hello and welcome – My name is Bella; I am a clinical psychologist. I work with clients who experience negative self-talk. Many of us walk around with negative views of ourselves; which can lead to depression, anxiety, eating disorders and a wide range of other symptoms. I enjoy helping clients make sense of their negative inner voice - whether this was shaped by childhood trauma/neglect or a feeling of being different (for example growing up with ADHD, or growing up in a marginalised community such as LGBTIQA+ folks). The clients I see not only want to reduce their symptoms, but also wish to start seeing themselves more positively.
(03) 7003 2670 View (03) 7003 2670
Photo of Stina Boro, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Stina Boro
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Online Only
Her work is queer-affirming and intersectional.
Stina is a registered counsellor, certified somatic therapist, IFS-trained and trauma-informed, and yoga and mindfulness teacher. With over a decade of experience in mental health and community services, Stina offers a grounded, integrative approach to counselling that honours the complexity of the human experience. She draws on somatic therapy, IFS, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation to support healing and growth. Sessions may include mindfulness, grounding, or guided visualisation—offered gently and with consent. Stina believes healing is not about fixing what is broken, but rediscovering what is already whole.
Her work is queer-affirming and intersectional.
Stina is a registered counsellor, certified somatic therapist, IFS-trained and trauma-informed, and yoga and mindfulness teacher. With over a decade of experience in mental health and community services, Stina offers a grounded, integrative approach to counselling that honours the complexity of the human experience. She draws on somatic therapy, IFS, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation to support healing and growth. Sessions may include mindfulness, grounding, or guided visualisation—offered gently and with consent. Stina believes healing is not about fixing what is broken, but rediscovering what is already whole.
0449 885 651 View 0449 885 651
Photo of Dr Zhi Xiang On - Back On Track Psychology, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Back On Track Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Kew, VIC 3101
At Back On Track Psychology, our team brings together a diverse range of expertise to provide compassionate, evidence-based, and neuroaffirming support for children, young people, and adults. We share a commitment to creating safe, collaborative spaces where clients feel understood, valued, and empowered to thrive. Our occupational therapist, Kaitlyn has a strong passion for supporting children with developmental delays and sensory processing challenges. She uses a wide range of assessment tools (FCA, Beery, WHODAS) and evidence-based interventions to help children build motor skills, sensory integration, and emotional regulation.
At Back On Track Psychology, our team brings together a diverse range of expertise to provide compassionate, evidence-based, and neuroaffirming support for children, young people, and adults. We share a commitment to creating safe, collaborative spaces where clients feel understood, valued, and empowered to thrive. Our occupational therapist, Kaitlyn has a strong passion for supporting children with developmental delays and sensory processing challenges. She uses a wide range of assessment tools (FCA, Beery, WHODAS) and evidence-based interventions to help children build motor skills, sensory integration, and emotional regulation.
(03) 9111 5374 View (03) 9111 5374
Photo of Megan Wilson - Unison Mental Health, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Unison Mental Health
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
We work with anxiety, depression, and trauma — including EMDR and DBT — and specialise in relationship dynamics: polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQIA+ experiences, Kink and neurodivergent presentations.
We have a diverse team of counsellors, psychotherapists, psychologists, relationship therapists and an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, with advanced training across modalities such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, IFS‑informed work, psychedelic integration, Gestalt, Schema and emotion‑focused therapies.
We work with anxiety, depression, and trauma — including EMDR and DBT — and specialise in relationship dynamics: polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQIA+ experiences, Kink and neurodivergent presentations.
We have a diverse team of counsellors, psychotherapists, psychologists, relationship therapists and an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, with advanced training across modalities such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, IFS‑informed work, psychedelic integration, Gestalt, Schema and emotion‑focused therapies.
0480 706 922 View 0480 706 922
Photo of Lanie Tobias, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Lanie Tobias
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Balaclava, VIC 3183
As a body-positive, gender-affirming, neuro-affirming, and LGBTQIA+ affirming counsellor, I offer warm, non-judgemental support to people seeking guidance.
I create a safe, trusting space where you can feel supported in navigating challenges. I welcome all bodies, genders, and identities, and acknowledge the privileges I hold as a cis, able-bodied woman on stolen land. My collaborative approach encourages genuine connection, where we work together to explore your experiences and make meaningful changes.
As a body-positive, gender-affirming, neuro-affirming, and LGBTQIA+ affirming counsellor, I offer warm, non-judgemental support to people seeking guidance.
I create a safe, trusting space where you can feel supported in navigating challenges. I welcome all bodies, genders, and identities, and acknowledge the privileges I hold as a cis, able-bodied woman on stolen land. My collaborative approach encourages genuine connection, where we work together to explore your experiences and make meaningful changes.
View
Photo of Tania Rose, Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Tania Rose
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Supporting individuals & relationships, queer folk, and disabled clients.
Tania Rose is both clinically experienced and has lived-experience in neurodivergence, cultural inequality, and differ-ability/disability, recognising the social and human rights models of disability. Tania also supports those working professionally in the mental health sector as a clinical supervisor, educator and workplace wellbeing researcher.
Supporting individuals & relationships, queer folk, and disabled clients.
Tania Rose is both clinically experienced and has lived-experience in neurodivergence, cultural inequality, and differ-ability/disability, recognising the social and human rights models of disability. Tania also supports those working professionally in the mental health sector as a clinical supervisor, educator and workplace wellbeing researcher.
(02) 4708 9622 View (02) 4708 9622
Photo of Hiro McLeman, Counsellor, PACFA
Hiro McLeman
Counsellor, PACFA
Thornbury, VIC 3071
Hello I'm Hiro, I'm a queer, non-binary, neurodivergent, mixed Japanese and white therapist.
I can provide support around sexuality, gender, relationships including ethical non-monogamy, racial and cultural identity, depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem and other mental health challenges you may face. I focus on creating a non-judgmental, affirmative space for you to explore what’s troubling you. I welcome your faith and spiritual practice.
Hello I'm Hiro, I'm a queer, non-binary, neurodivergent, mixed Japanese and white therapist.
I can provide support around sexuality, gender, relationships including ethical non-monogamy, racial and cultural identity, depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem and other mental health challenges you may face. I focus on creating a non-judgmental, affirmative space for you to explore what’s troubling you. I welcome your faith and spiritual practice.
0403 971 788 View 0403 971 788
Photo of Davina Morley, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Davina Morley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Online Only
I am a queer relationship therapist and registered psychologist, working with LGBTIQA+ people ( lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, questioning, asexual, and including pansexual, non-binary, and people of diverse sexuality, gender and bodies who use other words to describe themselves or do not label their sexuality or gender).
I strive to be anti-oppressive, and to understand my privileges and blind spots. While my formal training and registration are in psychology, I understand that we are all much more than diagnoses, and that we adapt to and resist experiences of oppression and trauma in order to survive in many different painful and incredible ways.
I am a queer relationship therapist and registered psychologist, working with LGBTIQA+ people ( lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, questioning, asexual, and including pansexual, non-binary, and people of diverse sexuality, gender and bodies who use other words to describe themselves or do not label their sexuality or gender).
I strive to be anti-oppressive, and to understand my privileges and blind spots. While my formal training and registration are in psychology, I understand that we are all much more than diagnoses, and that we adapt to and resist experiences of oppression and trauma in order to survive in many different painful and incredible ways.
(03) 8413 7355 View (03) 8413 7355
Photo of Brett Ruehland, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brett Ruehland
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Brett Ruehland supports queer, neurodivergent, and gender-diverse clients, including people navigating ADHD, autism, masking, identity development, relationships, burnout, trauma, and experiences of exclusion or invalidation.
His approach is collaborative, affirming, evidence-based, and individualised, with an emphasis on creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful therapeutic space. Brett is committed to neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTIQ+ affirming care, and recognises the importance of working at a pace that supports safety, autonomy, and sustainable change.
Brett Ruehland supports queer, neurodivergent, and gender-diverse clients, including people navigating ADHD, autism, masking, identity development, relationships, burnout, trauma, and experiences of exclusion or invalidation.
His approach is collaborative, affirming, evidence-based, and individualised, with an emphasis on creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful therapeutic space. Brett is committed to neurodiversity-affirming and LGBTIQ+ affirming care, and recognises the importance of working at a pace that supports safety, autonomy, and sustainable change.
(02) 8556 7558 View (02) 8556 7558
Photo of Iuliia Kapinos, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Iuliia Kapinos
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Online Only
We are born in relationship, we are wounded in relationship, and we can be healed in relationship. Each person's journey is different, and my therapeutic approach is tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, trauma or seeking personal growth, I am here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
We are born in relationship, we are wounded in relationship, and we can be healed in relationship. Each person's journey is different, and my therapeutic approach is tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, trauma or seeking personal growth, I am here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
(03) 7500 5600 View (03) 7500 5600
Photo of Cristiona Guiney, Social Worker, AASW
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 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 person.
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 Emma Love, Social Worker, AASW
Emma Love
Social Worker, AASW
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
I deeply enjoy working with adults & LGBTQ+ people who are navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, and trauma.
As a queer-identifying psychotherapist, I believe everyone deserves safe & inclusive mental health care that affirms all aspects of their identity. I am committed to offering my clients a non-judgemental space where, together, we can explore tools that help you feel more grounded, supported and connected.
I deeply enjoy working with adults & LGBTQ+ people who are navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, and trauma.
As a queer-identifying psychotherapist, I believe everyone deserves safe & inclusive mental health care that affirms all aspects of their identity. I am committed to offering my clients a non-judgemental space where, together, we can explore tools that help you feel more grounded, supported and connected.
0480 801 257 View 0480 801 257
Photo of Kaz Mitchell, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Kaz Mitchell
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
From time-to-time we all have issues going on in our lives that feel overwhelming, confusing and too hard to deal with on our own. At the same time, for various reasons, it often feels as if there is no one there we feel safe enough with whom we can share our burdens. Whether it's a messy divorce, the death of a loved one, a traumatic experience, an existential crisis about the meaning of life, or a difficult decision that has to be made - it can be hard to figure out what to do or who to turn to for guidance.
From time-to-time we all have issues going on in our lives that feel overwhelming, confusing and too hard to deal with on our own. At the same time, for various reasons, it often feels as if there is no one there we feel safe enough with whom we can share our burdens. Whether it's a messy divorce, the death of a loved one, a traumatic experience, an existential crisis about the meaning of life, or a difficult decision that has to be made - it can be hard to figure out what to do or who to turn to for guidance.
(03) 6146 1629 View (03) 6146 1629
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.