LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Melbourne, VIC

Photo of Shaun Williams - Bent Couch Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Shaun Williams - Bent Couch Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
2 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3004
At Bent Couch Counselling, I specialise in providing affirming, trauma-informed support for men and LGBTQIA+ individuals across Australia.
As a cis gay man and father, I bring both lived experience and professional expertise to our sessions. My approach integrates evidence-based therapies, including Person-Centred Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), tailored to your unique needs.
At Bent Couch Counselling, I specialise in providing affirming, trauma-informed support for men and LGBTQIA+ individuals across Australia.
As a cis gay man and father, I bring both lived experience and professional expertise to our sessions. My approach integrates evidence-based therapies, including Person-Centred Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), tailored to your unique needs.
(03) 9111 2666 View (03) 9111 2666
Photo of Anine Cummins - Anine Cummins (they/them) - Ginger Cat Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Anine Cummins (they/them) - Ginger Cat Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I work with LGBTIQ+ clients, including trans and non-binary people, people with traumatic histories, including sexual assault and abuse, people with dissociative disorders, including DID, people with ADHD and autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out.
I’m gender non-conforming, a proud member of the LGBTIQ+ community and I’ve successfully overcome trauma. I work with clients everyday on self-acceptance and practical solutions to difficult emotional problems. My lived experience, qualifications and expertise make me an empathetic and insightful counsellor.
I work with LGBTIQ+ clients, including trans and non-binary people, people with traumatic histories, including sexual assault and abuse, people with dissociative disorders, including DID, people with ADHD and autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out.
I’m gender non-conforming, a proud member of the LGBTIQ+ community and I’ve successfully overcome trauma. I work with clients everyday on self-acceptance and practical solutions to difficult emotional problems. My lived experience, qualifications and expertise make me an empathetic and insightful counsellor.
(03) 8338 1789 View (03) 8338 1789
Dr Chris Pepping
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Areas of particular interest include: LGBTQIA+ issues; anxiety & depression; neurodiversity (e
I am a Clinical Psychologist practicing in Melbourne, Australia, and Associate Professor in Psychology. I hold a PhD in Clinical Psychology and endorsement in Clinical Psychology (AHPRA). I am a member of the APS and Fellow of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists. I am also a member of the Australian Professional Association for Trans Health.
Areas of particular interest include: LGBTQIA+ issues; anxiety & depression; neurodiversity (e
I am a Clinical Psychologist practicing in Melbourne, Australia, and Associate Professor in Psychology. I hold a PhD in Clinical Psychology and endorsement in Clinical Psychology (AHPRA). I am a member of the APS and Fellow of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists. I am also a member of the Australian Professional Association for Trans Health.
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Photo of Lee Cubis, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Lee Cubis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3004
I have an interest in working with people from LGBTQIA+ populations including individuals and relationship work.
A wealth of research indicates that Clinical Psychology interventions are effective in addressing many psychological concerns, and that interventions need to be adapted to each individual. I work primarily from a cognitive-behavioural framework including CBT, ACT, DBT and I am trained in Schema Mode Therapy. All services are able to be delivered online.
I have an interest in working with people from LGBTQIA+ populations including individuals and relationship work.
A wealth of research indicates that Clinical Psychology interventions are effective in addressing many psychological concerns, and that interventions need to be adapted to each individual. I work primarily from a cognitive-behavioural framework including CBT, ACT, DBT and I am trained in Schema Mode Therapy. All services are able to be delivered online.
(03) 6316 1110 View (03) 6316 1110
Photo of Jayson Rom, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Jayson Rom
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Melbourne, VIC 3004
Jayson is a psychologist with 18 years of experience working with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples and groups within a range of settings (drug and alcohol, forensic, the LGBTQIA+ community, mental health, sexual health, NDIS, and private practice settings).
Jayson has diverse experience across public and private mental health sectors and utilises a therapeutic approach that aims to enable one to work through presenting conflicts to bring about positive changes in one's life and relationships.
Jayson is a psychologist with 18 years of experience working with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples and groups within a range of settings (drug and alcohol, forensic, the LGBTQIA+ community, mental health, sexual health, NDIS, and private practice settings).
Jayson has diverse experience across public and private mental health sectors and utilises a therapeutic approach that aims to enable one to work through presenting conflicts to bring about positive changes in one's life and relationships.
(03) 9068 5653 View (03) 9068 5653
Photo of Dr Coby Liew, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsychD, AMHSW
Dr Coby Liew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsychD, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I was born in Borneo, identify as gay, and have experience living in different countries and cultures.
Additionally, I have extensive experience assisting clients facing domestic violence issues on Partner Visas, adeptly navigating complex immigration processes and court-mandated conditions. I offer crucial mental health support, expert witness opinions, and pivotal evidentiary assessment reports to help you communicate effectively with relevant authorities.
I was born in Borneo, identify as gay, and have experience living in different countries and cultures.
Additionally, I have extensive experience assisting clients facing domestic violence issues on Partner Visas, adeptly navigating complex immigration processes and court-mandated conditions. I offer crucial mental health support, expert witness opinions, and pivotal evidentiary assessment reports to help you communicate effectively with relevant authorities.
(03) 8595 5297 View (03) 8595 5297
Photo of Kevin Vun, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Kevin Vun
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
9 Endorsed
Serves Area
As an empathetic, inclusive counsellor, I support individuals from all walks of life, with a focus on queer, gay, BIPOC, Asian, and male clients.
Looking for holistic support? I’m an integrative counsellor with a BA in Psychology and Sociology and a Master’s in Clinical Counselling. I offer a personalised approach using diverse therapeutic methods. Through collaboration and empowerment, we’ll work toward clarity, healing, and meaningful personal growth.
As an empathetic, inclusive counsellor, I support individuals from all walks of life, with a focus on queer, gay, BIPOC, Asian, and male clients.
Looking for holistic support? I’m an integrative counsellor with a BA in Psychology and Sociology and a Master’s in Clinical Counselling. I offer a personalised approach using diverse therapeutic methods. Through collaboration and empowerment, we’ll work toward clarity, healing, and meaningful personal growth.
(02) 9100 0511 View (02) 9100 0511
Photo of Allan Bell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Allan Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am deeply passionate about supporting the LGBTQ+ community, with a particular focus on gay men's health, transgender health, gender dysphoria, and individuals who are navigating intergenerational or religious trauma.
In 2021, I was honoured to receive the Health Practitioner of the Year Award from Diverse Voices. This recognition not only celebrates my work but also underscores my commitment to providing inclusive, compassionate care. I believe that diversity holds special meaning, which is reflected my personal and professional dedication to marginalised communities.
I am deeply passionate about supporting the LGBTQ+ community, with a particular focus on gay men's health, transgender health, gender dysphoria, and individuals who are navigating intergenerational or religious trauma.
In 2021, I was honoured to receive the Health Practitioner of the Year Award from Diverse Voices. This recognition not only celebrates my work but also underscores my commitment to providing inclusive, compassionate care. I believe that diversity holds special meaning, which is reflected my personal and professional dedication to marginalised communities.
0432 145 195 View 0432 145 195
Photo of Corey Ferguson, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Corey Ferguson
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Corey (He/Him), I'm a passionate registered psychologist dedicated to supporting neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities.
My main goal is to create a warm, welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent community. I enjoy helping clients embrace and show kindness to the parts of themselves they find challenging, while providing them with the tools to navigate life's twists and turns.
Hi, I'm Corey (He/Him), I'm a passionate registered psychologist dedicated to supporting neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities.
My main goal is to create a warm, welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent community. I enjoy helping clients embrace and show kindness to the parts of themselves they find challenging, while providing them with the tools to navigate life's twists and turns.
(02) 9159 6647 View (02) 9159 6647
Photo of Alexander Brian Mach, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Alexander Brian Mach
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Serves Area
I'm Xander (he/him) I’m a provisional psychologist dedicated to providing compassionate, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed care, with a focus on improving outcomes for neurodivergent individuals and the LGBTQIA+ community.
I take a collaborative, and evidence-based approach to support individuals with gender and sexual identity, kink, gender dysphoria, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, substance use, ADHD, stigma, interpersonal issues, grief, life transitions, and trauma. My goal is to provide an affirming space that fosters resilience, self-compassion, and empowerment.
I'm Xander (he/him) I’m a provisional psychologist dedicated to providing compassionate, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed care, with a focus on improving outcomes for neurodivergent individuals and the LGBTQIA+ community.
I take a collaborative, and evidence-based approach to support individuals with gender and sexual identity, kink, gender dysphoria, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, substance use, ADHD, stigma, interpersonal issues, grief, life transitions, and trauma. My goal is to provide an affirming space that fosters resilience, self-compassion, and empowerment.
(02) 9420 3143 View (02) 9420 3143
Photo of Nicolás Patricio Pérez, Counsellor, MA
Nicolás Patricio Pérez
Counsellor, MA
Online Only
I am here to support you with topics such as depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA+, stress, migration, self-esteem, or anything you feel you need to discuss and work on.
My training is in psychoanalysis, and my journey has led me toward a more relational perspective, where the individual’s reality and what emerges in our dynamic during sessions are central. Additionally, if you feel that you would like to explore your emotions in a more experiential way, I offer transpersonal techniques that can be incredibly helpful.
I am here to support you with topics such as depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA+, stress, migration, self-esteem, or anything you feel you need to discuss and work on.
My training is in psychoanalysis, and my journey has led me toward a more relational perspective, where the individual’s reality and what emerges in our dynamic during sessions are central. Additionally, if you feel that you would like to explore your emotions in a more experiential way, I offer transpersonal techniques that can be incredibly helpful.
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Photo of Bianca Shannon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Bianca Shannon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Serves Area
Hello, I'm Bianca (She/Her), a vibrant, queer, and neurodivergent therapist with extensive experience as a therapist.
As a therapist, I optimise and utilise evidence based affirming approaches. Some of my interest areas and modalities include: Trauma informed care, Gender/ Queer affirming care and Neuro-affirming care. I’m trained and confident providing treatment through Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TFCBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Hello, I'm Bianca (She/Her), a vibrant, queer, and neurodivergent therapist with extensive experience as a therapist.
As a therapist, I optimise and utilise evidence based affirming approaches. Some of my interest areas and modalities include: Trauma informed care, Gender/ Queer affirming care and Neuro-affirming care. I’m trained and confident providing treatment through Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TFCBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
(02) 8000 1415 View (02) 8000 1415
Photo of Anthony Smith, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Anthony Smith
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I have a special interest in working with neurodiverse people, people living with a disability and working with LGBTQIA+ individuals.
I am a registered clinical psychologist with diverse experience across public and private mental health sectors. I work with adult clients, firmly believing in everyone’s potential for growth and change. My approach to therapy is grounded in the therapeutic alliance. I work hard to create spaces where clients feel safe, supported, and heard. I provide evidence based therapy for a range of mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, self esteem, loss and grief. I also provide therapy related to sexual functioning and sexual health issues.
I have a special interest in working with neurodiverse people, people living with a disability and working with LGBTQIA+ individuals.
I am a registered clinical psychologist with diverse experience across public and private mental health sectors. I work with adult clients, firmly believing in everyone’s potential for growth and change. My approach to therapy is grounded in the therapeutic alliance. I work hard to create spaces where clients feel safe, supported, and heard. I provide evidence based therapy for a range of mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, self esteem, loss and grief. I also provide therapy related to sexual functioning and sexual health issues.
(03) 7003 2993 View (03) 7003 2993
Photo of Tania Rose, Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Tania Rose
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Psychotherapist Tania Rose draws from 30+ years of experience providing support for Autistic and ADHD adults through a neurodiversity-affirming and queer-affirming lived-experience lens, Australia-wide via Zoom.
Tania is clinically experienced 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, allied health, and creative arts sector as a clinical supervisor, educator and workplace wellbeing researcher.
Psychotherapist Tania Rose draws from 30+ years of experience providing support for Autistic and ADHD adults through a neurodiversity-affirming and queer-affirming lived-experience lens, Australia-wide via Zoom.
Tania is clinically experienced 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, allied health, and creative arts sector as a clinical supervisor, educator and workplace wellbeing researcher.
(02) 4708 9622 View (02) 4708 9622
Photo of Dr Mike van Dijkhuizen, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Dr Mike van Dijkhuizen
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Online Only
I have a special interest in working with LGBTQ+ clients, with a queer affirming perspective.
In my early career I was a social worker, health adviser and counsellor in HIV and sexual health. After my doctorate in clinical psychology, I focused on adult mental health, working in various public health settings, forensics and in university counselling. I set up The Skype Clinic in 2012 and now only work by telehealth.
I have a special interest in working with LGBTQ+ clients, with a queer affirming perspective.
In my early career I was a social worker, health adviser and counsellor in HIV and sexual health. After my doctorate in clinical psychology, I focused on adult mental health, working in various public health settings, forensics and in university counselling. I set up The Skype Clinic in 2012 and now only work by telehealth.
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Photo of Isabelle Stoner - Somatic Psychotherapy Counselling Yoga, Psychotherapist, PACFA
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 Kodi Duruchukwu, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Kodi Duruchukwu
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Serves Area
Hi I'm Kodi (They/She), I'm a compassionate and dedicated Provisional Psychologist with a strong commitment to supporting clients from CLAD and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds.
My main mission is to create a warm and welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the CLAD, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent communities. I love helping clients embrace and be kind to the parts of themselves they might find challenging, while also equipping them with the tools to navigate life's twists and turns.
Hi I'm Kodi (They/She), I'm a compassionate and dedicated Provisional Psychologist with a strong commitment to supporting clients from CLAD and LGBTQIA+ backgrounds.
My main mission is to create a warm and welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the CLAD, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent communities. I love helping clients embrace and be kind to the parts of themselves they might find challenging, while also equipping them with the tools to navigate life's twists and turns.
(02) 9159 6657 View (02) 9159 6657
Photo of Anthony Arpino - Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy), Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Anthony Arpino (Proud Place Therapy)
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide therapeutic support to individuals (aged 16+) from the queer, transgender, gender-questioning ( LGBTQIA+) and neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, etc.) communities in the Sydney area (in-person/online) and Australia-wide (online only).
I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where individuals can explore their unique identities and experiences, offering a sense of pride and empowerment. My goal is to create a collaborative and relaxed therapeutic environment that supports individuals to develop resilience, self-awareness, and self-acceptance, and make positive change in their lives.
I provide therapeutic support to individuals (aged 16+) from the queer, transgender, gender-questioning ( LGBTQIA+) and neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, etc.) communities in the Sydney area (in-person/online) and Australia-wide (online only).
I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where individuals can explore their unique identities and experiences, offering a sense of pride and empowerment. My goal is to create a collaborative and relaxed therapeutic environment that supports individuals to develop resilience, self-awareness, and self-acceptance, and make positive change in their lives.
(02) 9100 0554 View (02) 9100 0554
Photo of Dr Trudy Clutterbok, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, AMHSW
Dr Trudy Clutterbok
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, AMHSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I value working with others of all ages from my LGBTQ+ and GBKS (diversity in gender, body, kinship & sexuality) communities.
I offer Psychoanalysis - we can discuss establishing a weekly or twice-weekly time to embark on a psychoanalysis. I also offer Counselling and am registered with Medicare.
I value working with others of all ages from my LGBTQ+ and GBKS (diversity in gender, body, kinship & sexuality) communities.
I offer Psychoanalysis - we can discuss establishing a weekly or twice-weekly time to embark on a psychoanalysis. I also offer Counselling and am registered with Medicare.
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Photo of Matthew Austin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Matthew Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Caring & non-judgemental counselling for LGBTQIA+ folk.
By creating a safe space between us, we can begin to understand how feelings of shame have been shaped by trauma in relationships. Through increased self-understanding, you can connect with a kinder version of yourself and get clear about where you hustle for self-worth and connection.
Caring & non-judgemental counselling for LGBTQIA+ folk.
By creating a safe space between us, we can begin to understand how feelings of shame have been shaped by trauma in relationships. Through increased self-understanding, you can connect with a kinder version of yourself and get clear about where you hustle for self-worth and connection.
(03) 7020 2779 View (03) 7020 2779

See more therapy options for Melbourne

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.