LGBTQ+ Affirming Psychologists and Therapists in Saint Kilda East, VIC

Christina Kioulafas
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel like there are always challenges that stop you from a balanced life? Or maybe you are struggling with the same patterns and trauma that just won't go away? Modern life can be so complicated, there is so much happening in the world it can be hard to find our own place in it. People are struggling in this global climate. Counselling can help you to connect to yourself. So often we think about connection to others, but how can we do that when we feel a sense of unrest and disconnection to our true self?
Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel like there are always challenges that stop you from a balanced life? Or maybe you are struggling with the same patterns and trauma that just won't go away? Modern life can be so complicated, there is so much happening in the world it can be hard to find our own place in it. People are struggling in this global climate. Counselling can help you to connect to yourself. So often we think about connection to others, but how can we do that when we feel a sense of unrest and disconnection to our true self?
(03) 7003 2090 View (03) 7003 2090
Mig Zvirblyte
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
I’m a registered online counsellor with a focus on supporting young people, people experiencing depression or anxiety, and members of LGBTQIA+ community.
I’m down-to-earth, authentic and curious. My aim is to offer a warm, affirming space where you can show up as your whole self— without pressure to fit a particular mould. If my approach resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you, and I’m always happy to answer any questions you may have before getting started.
I’m a registered online counsellor with a focus on supporting young people, people experiencing depression or anxiety, and members of LGBTQIA+ community.
I’m down-to-earth, authentic and curious. My aim is to offer a warm, affirming space where you can show up as your whole self— without pressure to fit a particular mould. If my approach resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you, and I’m always happy to answer any questions you may have before getting started.
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Dr Justin Olstein
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hey, I'm Dr Justin, and my practice has a focus on LGBTQIA+ wellbeing.
I obtained a doctorate of psychology, and have experience working in public mental health settings and private practice. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ clients. I also work with anxiety, low mood, life transitions, substance use issues, family/relationship issues, grief/loss, self-esteem and trauma (including intergenerational trauma).
Hey, I'm Dr Justin, and my practice has a focus on LGBTQIA+ wellbeing.
I obtained a doctorate of psychology, and have experience working in public mental health settings and private practice. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ clients. I also work with anxiety, low mood, life transitions, substance use issues, family/relationship issues, grief/loss, self-esteem and trauma (including intergenerational trauma).
0411 742 636 View 0411 742 636
Jeff Roberts
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a clinical psychologist with over 25 years experience in mental health working with male clients to assist them to make positive changes in their life and to achieve their goals. Part of this process is also linking clients back toward their core values. I also lecture at Monash University and ACAP college. I am able to support my male with interpersonal issues, work stress, anxiety and depression and sexual dysfunction.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 25 years experience in mental health working with male clients to assist them to make positive changes in their life and to achieve their goals. Part of this process is also linking clients back toward their core values. I also lecture at Monash University and ACAP college. I am able to support my male with interpersonal issues, work stress, anxiety and depression and sexual dysfunction.
(03) 7003 2535 View (03) 7003 2535
Dr Christine Deftereos
Social Worker, PhD, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Saint Kilda East, VIC 3183
I am a Lacanian Psychoanalyst, Accredited Metal Health Social Work and Psychotherapist who hold specialized accreditations in working with Complex Trauma, Acute Stress and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders and a range of mental health presentations. I am committed to providing best practice trauma informed care in a confidential, sensitive and validating therapeutic space, with an emphasis on ‘learning to live with our stories.’ My primary ethical commitment is to provide a safe non-judgmental space for ‘bearing witness,’ for truth telling,’ and in sharing your ‘lived experiences’ via free association. I am also an EMDR Practitioner.
I am a Lacanian Psychoanalyst, Accredited Metal Health Social Work and Psychotherapist who hold specialized accreditations in working with Complex Trauma, Acute Stress and Post Traumatic Stress Disorders and a range of mental health presentations. I am committed to providing best practice trauma informed care in a confidential, sensitive and validating therapeutic space, with an emphasis on ‘learning to live with our stories.’ My primary ethical commitment is to provide a safe non-judgmental space for ‘bearing witness,’ for truth telling,’ and in sharing your ‘lived experiences’ via free association. I am also an EMDR Practitioner.
(03) 7003 2924 View (03) 7003 2924
Jimena Doval Clarke
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Kilda East, VIC 3183
Welcome, my name is Jimena and I am a registered psychotherapist based in St Kilda East. I work with people who are suffering which can take many forms - loss, trauma, grief, substance use, relationship breakdowns , lack of meaning and life transitions. I approach this work with warmth, understanding and without judgement. I see pain as an inevitable part of being human and I find that it is that when a person is supported with care to actually turn towards what hurts that often there is an opportunity to experience relief, explore what truly matters, grow and find purpose.
Welcome, my name is Jimena and I am a registered psychotherapist based in St Kilda East. I work with people who are suffering which can take many forms - loss, trauma, grief, substance use, relationship breakdowns , lack of meaning and life transitions. I approach this work with warmth, understanding and without judgement. I see pain as an inevitable part of being human and I find that it is that when a person is supported with care to actually turn towards what hurts that often there is an opportunity to experience relief, explore what truly matters, grow and find purpose.
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Sandra Ifrah
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Sandra Ifrah is a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of mental health concerns. She adopts a family-focused approach, providing clients with a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment, while actively involving the family unit in the journey toward positive change. Sandra also works closely with separated families, offering therapeutic support to navigate complex dynamics, and provides professional reports for court-related purposes to assist in family law matters.
Sandra Ifrah is a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of mental health concerns. She adopts a family-focused approach, providing clients with a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment, while actively involving the family unit in the journey toward positive change. Sandra also works closely with separated families, offering therapeutic support to navigate complex dynamics, and provides professional reports for court-related purposes to assist in family law matters.
(03) 6144 6011 View (03) 6144 6011
Louise Jones
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Louise is an EMDR-accredited psychologist, providing trauma-focused and informed counselling and assessment services to people experiencing a wide range of mental health issues. She is committed to working with clients to move beyond symptom management to address the issues that are underlying their presenting concerns. Louise provides a safe and respectful space in which people can explore the challenges they are facing at a pace that is led by them and tailored to their specific needs.
Louise is an EMDR-accredited psychologist, providing trauma-focused and informed counselling and assessment services to people experiencing a wide range of mental health issues. She is committed to working with clients to move beyond symptom management to address the issues that are underlying their presenting concerns. Louise provides a safe and respectful space in which people can explore the challenges they are facing at a pace that is led by them and tailored to their specific needs.
(03) 8658 1285 View (03) 8658 1285
Jade Araujo
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I work primarily with adults experiencing trauma, burnout, relationship difficulties and anxiety, as well as those seeking greater understanding of ADHD or autism. Many of my clients are capable, thoughtful individuals who have spent years managing challenges independently, yet find themselves feeling stuck in familiar patterns or overwhelmed by ongoing demands. Therapy offers a space to better understand these experiences, develop insight and create meaningful, lasting change. Together, we explore the experiences, beliefs and coping patterns that may be influencing your wellbeing, relationships and sense of self.
I work primarily with adults experiencing trauma, burnout, relationship difficulties and anxiety, as well as those seeking greater understanding of ADHD or autism. Many of my clients are capable, thoughtful individuals who have spent years managing challenges independently, yet find themselves feeling stuck in familiar patterns or overwhelmed by ongoing demands. Therapy offers a space to better understand these experiences, develop insight and create meaningful, lasting change. Together, we explore the experiences, beliefs and coping patterns that may be influencing your wellbeing, relationships and sense of self.
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Dr Galit Hasen
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
During our sessions, we put our minds together to give you our undivided, focused attention. I listen to you on many levels. I attend to the words you use, the patterns of your stories and what is not said. It is a deep and curious listening. I help you find the courage to see yourself with clarity and honesty. My strength as a therapist is understanding the unique felt experience of each person I see. This forms the basis of our work together and the place from which we make sense of the difficulties that bring you to therapy.
During our sessions, we put our minds together to give you our undivided, focused attention. I listen to you on many levels. I attend to the words you use, the patterns of your stories and what is not said. It is a deep and curious listening. I help you find the courage to see yourself with clarity and honesty. My strength as a therapist is understanding the unique felt experience of each person I see. This forms the basis of our work together and the place from which we make sense of the difficulties that bring you to therapy.
0481 819 563 View 0481 819 563
Naomi Rubinstein
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Serves Area
Every relationship experiences challenges. Whether you're feeling disconnected, caught in recurring conflict, struggling to communicate, or navigating a major life transition, improvement is possible. As a counsellor with Gottman Method Levels 1, 2 and 3 training, I use proven relationship interventions tailored to your unique circumstances, helping you create a stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling relationship. I provide a supportive, non-judgemental space where you can better understand each other's needs, strengthen communication, and rebuild trust and connection.
Every relationship experiences challenges. Whether you're feeling disconnected, caught in recurring conflict, struggling to communicate, or navigating a major life transition, improvement is possible. As a counsellor with Gottman Method Levels 1, 2 and 3 training, I use proven relationship interventions tailored to your unique circumstances, helping you create a stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling relationship. I provide a supportive, non-judgemental space where you can better understand each other's needs, strengthen communication, and rebuild trust and connection.
(03) 7003 2543 View (03) 7003 2543
Suzanne Sharp
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life doesn't come with a user's guide and all of us struggle at times. In looking for a therapist you have taken a step toward finding greater ease in your life. Psychotherapy is about building a greater awareness and understanding of your patterns in life. This allows you to find a sense of spaciousness where, rather than act reactively, you can make more conscious choices and cultivate a stronger sense of self. If you find yourself often feeling anxious or depressed, held back by past traumas, not living the life you want, or lacking direction, then please reach out so I can support you in finding the change you need.
Life doesn't come with a user's guide and all of us struggle at times. In looking for a therapist you have taken a step toward finding greater ease in your life. Psychotherapy is about building a greater awareness and understanding of your patterns in life. This allows you to find a sense of spaciousness where, rather than act reactively, you can make more conscious choices and cultivate a stronger sense of self. If you find yourself often feeling anxious or depressed, held back by past traumas, not living the life you want, or lacking direction, then please reach out so I can support you in finding the change you need.
(03) 7003 2693 View (03) 7003 2693
Chris Bolton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I place an emphasis on a respectful relationship where thoughts and feelings are treated with sensitivity and honesty. I provide a supportive and relaxed environment, and believe that no thought or feeling deserves judgment in therapy. I enjoy helping people with anxiety, phobias, OCD, depression, trauma, problems with assertiveness, anger, behavioural problems, and relationship issues. I hope to offer people an opportunity to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering, to build skills to regulate anxiety, to gain stability in relationships, and to heal and unlock potential.
I place an emphasis on a respectful relationship where thoughts and feelings are treated with sensitivity and honesty. I provide a supportive and relaxed environment, and believe that no thought or feeling deserves judgment in therapy. I enjoy helping people with anxiety, phobias, OCD, depression, trauma, problems with assertiveness, anger, behavioural problems, and relationship issues. I hope to offer people an opportunity to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering, to build skills to regulate anxiety, to gain stability in relationships, and to heal and unlock potential.
(03) 7003 2703 View (03) 7003 2703
Dr Maddy Fernando
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Maddy—a senior clinical psychologist helping children, young people, and adults create lives that feel steadier, more connected, and more fulfilling. With younger clients, I use playful, creative approaches to make therapy engaging; with adults, our work is reflective, practical, and empowering. I help with common challenges like anxiety, low mood, stress, and adjusting to major life changes, as well as more complex concerns including trauma recovery, navigating neurodivergence (i.e ADHD, autism), borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, and obsessive or compulsive behaviours—focusing on meaningful, lasting change.
Hi, I’m Maddy—a senior clinical psychologist helping children, young people, and adults create lives that feel steadier, more connected, and more fulfilling. With younger clients, I use playful, creative approaches to make therapy engaging; with adults, our work is reflective, practical, and empowering. I help with common challenges like anxiety, low mood, stress, and adjusting to major life changes, as well as more complex concerns including trauma recovery, navigating neurodivergence (i.e ADHD, autism), borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, and obsessive or compulsive behaviours—focusing on meaningful, lasting change.
0426 415 617 View 0426 415 617
Lucy Adlard
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Clients often describe Lucy as warm and grounded, with a natural ability to bring energy and insight into each session. She’s known for her respectful yet direct style, gently challenging stuck patterns and helping clients move toward meaningful change beyond the therapy room. Her clinical interests include behaviour change and addictions, emotional regulation, anxiety (in all its forms), sleep, and mood and personality disorders. She also has further training in the Gottman Method (Level 1) and has a particular interest supporting clients working through relationship and attachment concerns.
Clients often describe Lucy as warm and grounded, with a natural ability to bring energy and insight into each session. She’s known for her respectful yet direct style, gently challenging stuck patterns and helping clients move toward meaningful change beyond the therapy room. Her clinical interests include behaviour change and addictions, emotional regulation, anxiety (in all its forms), sleep, and mood and personality disorders. She also has further training in the Gottman Method (Level 1) and has a particular interest supporting clients working through relationship and attachment concerns.
(03) 9605 3535 View (03) 9605 3535
Ronnie Adamowicz
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
(03) 7037 6993 View (03) 7037 6993
Lucianne Grixti
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with people who may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain, and who are seeking more than a quick fix. Often, the people that I work with are thoughtful, sensitive, and curious about themselves and their relationships, and have a sense that there is something deeper to be understood about themselves. They may be struggling with recurring patterns, emotional pain, or difficulties that feel hard to explain. In our work together, I offer a steady, reflective space to explore these experiences, supporting greater self-understanding and the possibility of meaningful, lasting change.
I work with people who may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain, and who are seeking more than a quick fix. Often, the people that I work with are thoughtful, sensitive, and curious about themselves and their relationships, and have a sense that there is something deeper to be understood about themselves. They may be struggling with recurring patterns, emotional pain, or difficulties that feel hard to explain. In our work together, I offer a steady, reflective space to explore these experiences, supporting greater self-understanding and the possibility of meaningful, lasting change.
0434 142 295 View 0434 142 295
Lauren Ross
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
Do you have a wish to understand your mind, to become un-stuck, and to have healthier relationships with yourself and others? I launched Melbourne Psychology House to offer people an opportunity to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering, to build skills to regulate anxiety, to gain stability in relationships, and to heal and unlock potential. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, relationship difficulties, women's health concerns, emotion regulation challenges, and more.
Do you have a wish to understand your mind, to become un-stuck, and to have healthier relationships with yourself and others? I launched Melbourne Psychology House to offer people an opportunity to understand what is happening inside themselves that is causing their suffering, to build skills to regulate anxiety, to gain stability in relationships, and to heal and unlock potential. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, relationship difficulties, women's health concerns, emotion regulation challenges, and more.
(03) 7003 2027 View (03) 7003 2027

More Therapists Nearby

Zave Leo
Counsellor
Melbourne, VIC 3000
There is nothing that unites us more than the human experience, yet the stigma around mental health still impacts us. I see the common threads that connect us every day, even when we think we’re alone. We are relational beings, and shame dies when stories are told in safe spaces. If 1:1 therapy scares you or feels too traditional and formal, I completely understand. I love working with people, and know it’s a privilege to hear stories of all kinds and be with people in their vulnerability. I’m committed to showing up in the present moment with you, and figuring it out together. Real life, done with a real person alongside you.
There is nothing that unites us more than the human experience, yet the stigma around mental health still impacts us. I see the common threads that connect us every day, even when we think we’re alone. We are relational beings, and shame dies when stories are told in safe spaces. If 1:1 therapy scares you or feels too traditional and formal, I completely understand. I love working with people, and know it’s a privilege to hear stories of all kinds and be with people in their vulnerability. I’m committed to showing up in the present moment with you, and figuring it out together. Real life, done with a real person alongside you.
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Jager Corvus
Counsellor, AASW
Online Only
I'm a fully certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner & social work counsellor (NB trans), with over 20 years' experience working in community services. My work is grounded in social justice and liberatory practices that support self-agency, joy, pleasure & empowerment. I have a deep interest in relational & social trauma and use a somatic approach that acknowledges the external forces of power and harm. Our bodies hold protective patterns (or felt senses) in response to early attachment wounds, traumatic experiences, relational disruptions and structural pressures - together we work to safely integrate and release these patterns.
I'm a fully certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner & social work counsellor (NB trans), with over 20 years' experience working in community services. My work is grounded in social justice and liberatory practices that support self-agency, joy, pleasure & empowerment. I have a deep interest in relational & social trauma and use a somatic approach that acknowledges the external forces of power and harm. Our bodies hold protective patterns (or felt senses) in response to early attachment wounds, traumatic experiences, relational disruptions and structural pressures - together we work to safely integrate and release these patterns.
(03) 8338 1772 View (03) 8338 1772
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.