LGBTQ+ Affirming Psychologists and Therapists in Spotswood, VIC

Photo of Jack Osborn - Mind Up, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mind Up
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Spotswood, VIC 3015
Mind Up are here to support individuals from across the lifespan (5-85 years) across an array of presenting issues. Our psychologists can assist with depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, PTSD, trauma, phobias and much more. We can help clients with Medicare Mental Health Plans, NDIS, TAC, WorkCover and Private Health Insurance funding.
Mind Up are here to support individuals from across the lifespan (5-85 years) across an array of presenting issues. Our psychologists can assist with depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, PTSD, trauma, phobias and much more. We can help clients with Medicare Mental Health Plans, NDIS, TAC, WorkCover and Private Health Insurance funding.
(03) 9327 2769 View (03) 9327 2769
Photo of Emily Barber, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Emily Barber
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I also offer inclusive support for those within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hey, I’m Emily! I’m a registered psychologist with a warm, person-centred approach, and I provide both face-to-face and online therapy for teens and young adults, typically between the ages of 13 and 30. I’ve created a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. I draw on evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, and narrative therapy to support you in making sense of life’s challenges.
I also offer inclusive support for those within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hey, I’m Emily! I’m a registered psychologist with a warm, person-centred approach, and I provide both face-to-face and online therapy for teens and young adults, typically between the ages of 13 and 30. I’ve created a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. I draw on evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, and narrative therapy to support you in making sense of life’s challenges.
0420 558 547 View 0420 558 547
Photo of Joanne Cook, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Joanne Cook
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist. My dog, Blanche, is my trusted colleague, who offers animal assisted therapy. I specialise in child, adolescence and family therapy. Children learn through play which is the cornerstone of my evidence based therapeutic interventions. I offer therapy to adults and families who wish to explore relational patterns, heal trauma and mobilise strengths to enjoy deeper connections and improve family functioning. By cultivating a therapeutic relationship and using curiosity over judgment, I offer a space for you to think about and work towards change.
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist. My dog, Blanche, is my trusted colleague, who offers animal assisted therapy. I specialise in child, adolescence and family therapy. Children learn through play which is the cornerstone of my evidence based therapeutic interventions. I offer therapy to adults and families who wish to explore relational patterns, heal trauma and mobilise strengths to enjoy deeper connections and improve family functioning. By cultivating a therapeutic relationship and using curiosity over judgment, I offer a space for you to think about and work towards change.
(08) 9126 9091 View (08) 9126 9091
Photo of Dr Tanja Takala, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Tanja Takala
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist and EMDR therapist working in Williamstown and Melbourne CBD (Flagstaff Gardens). I am passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing the effects of traumatic or stressful life events (current or historical) and hope to better understand their inner world, develop tools for regulating their emotions, and feel more confident in navigating life's challenges. I am committed to providing gender and neurodivergent affirming care and creating a safe space for those who wish to explore their identities, cultivate self-compassion and feel empowered to live life as their most authentic selves.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and EMDR therapist working in Williamstown and Melbourne CBD (Flagstaff Gardens). I am passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing the effects of traumatic or stressful life events (current or historical) and hope to better understand their inner world, develop tools for regulating their emotions, and feel more confident in navigating life's challenges. I am committed to providing gender and neurodivergent affirming care and creating a safe space for those who wish to explore their identities, cultivate self-compassion and feel empowered to live life as their most authentic selves.
(03) 7003 2457 View (03) 7003 2457
Photo of Melis Topsahin, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Melis Topsahin
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
I assist clients that require therapy in the areas of anxiety, substance abuse (and/or other addictions), depression. My focus is on working with individual and couple's towards personal development and goal setting. Every client is unique, hence, requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. As a therapist, i work with various approaches such as: CBT, ACT, humanistic approach and TRTP (trauma therapy) amongst many other(s).
I assist clients that require therapy in the areas of anxiety, substance abuse (and/or other addictions), depression. My focus is on working with individual and couple's towards personal development and goal setting. Every client is unique, hence, requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. As a therapist, i work with various approaches such as: CBT, ACT, humanistic approach and TRTP (trauma therapy) amongst many other(s).
(02) 4504 0146 View (02) 4504 0146

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 Anine Cummins - Anine Cummins (they/them), Counsellor, ACA-L2
Anine Cummins (they/them)
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
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, autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out. My client says 'I came to you thinking that i needed to be fixed, that i just needed to work harder on myself so that all of my problems could be solved and then i could start 'living my real life.' I'm starting to learn that maybe it's ok that i don't always have my sht together. I’m human and that’s ok."
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, autism, and other neurodiverse brains, activists and other people struggling with burn out. My client says 'I came to you thinking that i needed to be fixed, that i just needed to work harder on myself so that all of my problems could be solved and then i could start 'living my real life.' I'm starting to learn that maybe it's ok that i don't always have my sht together. I’m human and that’s ok."
(03) 8338 1789 View (03) 8338 1789
Photo of Lette Jewell, Psychotherapist, MC, ACA-L2
Lette Jewell
Psychotherapist, MC, ACA-L2
Thornbury, VIC 3071
We offer affirming, trauma-informed support for ADHD, autism, AuDHD, late-diagnosed, queer, trans and genderfluid people.
As a Māori-European, neurodivergent, queer therapist offering somatic, trauma-informed, culturally grounded care. We support ADHD, autism, and body-based experiences, including all feminine presenting concerns, PMDD, perimenopause, emotional regulation challenges, and anxiety—our work centres on whole-body awareness, balance, and meaningful change.
We offer affirming, trauma-informed support for ADHD, autism, AuDHD, late-diagnosed, queer, trans and genderfluid people.
As a Māori-European, neurodivergent, queer therapist offering somatic, trauma-informed, culturally grounded care. We support ADHD, autism, and body-based experiences, including all feminine presenting concerns, PMDD, perimenopause, emotional regulation challenges, and anxiety—our work centres on whole-body awareness, balance, and meaningful change.
0452 064 983 View 0452 064 983
Photo of max p castle, Counsellor, ACA-L1
max p castle
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Brunswick, VIC 3056
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 Lee Taube, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Lee Taube
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Brunswick, VIC 3056
I am trans masculine (they/them pronouns), the founder and Director of Trans Space, a registered psychologist, and first author of four academic peer-reviewed publications, that use strengths-based approaches to improve mental health for Trans & Gender Diverse (TGD) people. I am experienced in using the informed consent model, Transgender Affirmative Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TA-CBT), and am an internationally certified Emotion Focused Therapist (EFT). I work collaboratively with gender affirming healthcare practitioners and make referrals to TGD community support groups.
I am trans masculine (they/them pronouns), the founder and Director of Trans Space, a registered psychologist, and first author of four academic peer-reviewed publications, that use strengths-based approaches to improve mental health for Trans & Gender Diverse (TGD) people. I am experienced in using the informed consent model, Transgender Affirmative Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TA-CBT), and am an internationally certified Emotion Focused Therapist (EFT). I work collaboratively with gender affirming healthcare practitioners and make referrals to TGD community support groups.
(03) 7003 2505 View (03) 7003 2505
Photo of Kathryn Anne Fortuna, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Kathryn Anne Fortuna
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Counsellor. Relationship Counsellor. Workplace Wellness. Organisations. The Anna Centres Business Development Counsellor. EAP Specialist. Specialising in Relationship Counselling. Your relationship with yourself and others. This includes building strong communication, respect and intimacy. I also support Families, Individuals and Teens to explore their feelings, clear old patterns, ignite self-awareness, build resourcefulness and feel more purposeful. I offer support with relationship building, parenting, clarity of thoughts, addressing behaviours, thought patterns & issues like anxiety & stress.
Counsellor. Relationship Counsellor. Workplace Wellness. Organisations. The Anna Centres Business Development Counsellor. EAP Specialist. Specialising in Relationship Counselling. Your relationship with yourself and others. This includes building strong communication, respect and intimacy. I also support Families, Individuals and Teens to explore their feelings, clear old patterns, ignite self-awareness, build resourcefulness and feel more purposeful. I offer support with relationship building, parenting, clarity of thoughts, addressing behaviours, thought patterns & issues like anxiety & stress.
(03) 4420 9660 View (03) 4420 9660
Photo of The Mind Clan - The Mind Clan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
The Mind Clan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Hawthorn, VIC 3122
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, identity and LGBTQIA+ exploration, life transitions, or family/relationship challenges, our psychologists bring a compassionate and playful energy to help you explore your experiences without judgment.
The Mind Clan understands that every individual learns and processes differently. We therefore, take a more holistic approach, incorporating visualisations, art and writing in addition to the more traditional talk therapy to support you on your healing journey.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, identity and LGBTQIA+ exploration, life transitions, or family/relationship challenges, our psychologists bring a compassionate and playful energy to help you explore your experiences without judgment.
The Mind Clan understands that every individual learns and processes differently. We therefore, take a more holistic approach, incorporating visualisations, art and writing in addition to the more traditional talk therapy to support you on your healing journey.
(03) 9070 5415 View (03) 9070 5415
Photo of Dr Diego Zambrano Herrera - Transformative Health AU, MBBS
Transformative Health AU
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middle Park, VIC 3206
You already know what you should do. Eat better, move more, manage stress. But knowledge isn't the problem. The gap between knowing and doing reveals something deeper: unaddressed anxiety, trauma, hormonal imbalances, or chronic inflammation your body's been telling you about for years. I'm Dr. Zambrano (MBBS, Masters Counselling & Psychotherapy), integrating medical-lifestyle science, and psychotherapy. I don't just hand you a diet plan. We uncover why change hasn't stuck, then build sustainable transformation through evidence-based medicine, and therapeutic support for the emotional roots of physical illness.
You already know what you should do. Eat better, move more, manage stress. But knowledge isn't the problem. The gap between knowing and doing reveals something deeper: unaddressed anxiety, trauma, hormonal imbalances, or chronic inflammation your body's been telling you about for years. I'm Dr. Zambrano (MBBS, Masters Counselling & Psychotherapy), integrating medical-lifestyle science, and psychotherapy. I don't just hand you a diet plan. We uncover why change hasn't stuck, then build sustainable transformation through evidence-based medicine, and therapeutic support for the emotional roots of physical illness.
(03) 8338 1126 View (03) 8338 1126
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.
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Photo of Rhi Gibson - Rhi Gibson Trauma Informed Counselling, Social Worker, MSc, AASW
Rhi Gibson Trauma Informed Counselling
Social Worker, MSc, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Rhi (they/them), a queer, non-binary mental health social worker counsellor dedicated to supporting LGBTQA+ young people and adults.
Support is tailored to your individual needs. I can accept Mental Health Care Plan referrals. I specialise in relationship work with self in developing self-esteem, self-worth, and self- confidence. As an experienced mental health clinician, I am here to walk with you through difficult life transitions with emotional, psychological and practical strategies.
Hi, I’m Rhi (they/them), a queer, non-binary mental health social worker counsellor dedicated to supporting LGBTQA+ young people and adults.
Support is tailored to your individual needs. I can accept Mental Health Care Plan referrals. I specialise in relationship work with self in developing self-esteem, self-worth, and self- confidence. As an experienced mental health clinician, I am here to walk with you through difficult life transitions with emotional, psychological and practical strategies.
(07) 3132 1774 View (07) 3132 1774
Photo of Jayson Rom, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Jayson Rom
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Prahran, VIC 3181
Jayson is a psychologist with 19 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 19 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 Kenny Dao, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kenny Dao
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Moorabbin, VIC 3189
Welcome to Peach Psychology. I am a registered psychologist, and have practiced across a range of diverse settings since 2019. With my previous therapeutic experience spanning across different age groups, I provide support to children (5+), adolescents, adults and elderly individuals, focusing on assisting each client to identify and work towards their own personal, individual goals.
Welcome to Peach Psychology. I am a registered psychologist, and have practiced across a range of diverse settings since 2019. With my previous therapeutic experience spanning across different age groups, I provide support to children (5+), adolescents, adults and elderly individuals, focusing on assisting each client to identify and work towards their own personal, individual goals.
(03) 8771 5313 View (03) 8771 5313
Photo of Jess Hodges, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jess Hodges
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
(02) 5605 6601 View (02) 5605 6601
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 David Mackay, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
David Mackay
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
West Melbourne, VIC 3003
○Accepting face-to-face clients in West Melbourne and Online○ I work with Veterans, Tradies, and people who identify as LGBTQ.
In my life, I have been both a Roof Plumber and a Psychologist. I believe this experience has helped me to offer psychological therapy in a straight-forward, down-to-earth way. I offer Trauma focussed therapies (including EMDR), as well as Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
○Accepting face-to-face clients in West Melbourne and Online○ I work with Veterans, Tradies, and people who identify as LGBTQ.
In my life, I have been both a Roof Plumber and a Psychologist. I believe this experience has helped me to offer psychological therapy in a straight-forward, down-to-earth way. I offer Trauma focussed therapies (including EMDR), as well as Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
(07) 3608 1085 View (07) 3608 1085
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.