LGBTQ+ Affirming Psychologists and Therapists in Sunshine, VIC

Photo of Nick Chien-Hung Koyang, Counsellor, AASW
Nick Chien-Hung Koyang
Counsellor, AASW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Nick Koyang is a dedicated and experienced counsellor providing support to adults of all ages in Melbourne. With years of professional expertise across diverse sectors—acute mental health, aged care, education, and private practice—Nick offers personalised counselling for individuals and couples. He is an Accredited Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Whether you are facing personal challenges, relationship difficulties, or simply seeking clarity and growth, Nick provides a safe and supportive space to navigate life's complexities.
Nick Koyang is a dedicated and experienced counsellor providing support to adults of all ages in Melbourne. With years of professional expertise across diverse sectors—acute mental health, aged care, education, and private practice—Nick offers personalised counselling for individuals and couples. He is an Accredited Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Whether you are facing personal challenges, relationship difficulties, or simply seeking clarity and growth, Nick provides a safe and supportive space to navigate life's complexities.
0468 863 690 View 0468 863 690
Photo of Toa Thredgold, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Toa Thredgold
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
You might feel anxious, stuck or uncertain about what comes next. Maybe you’re processing grief, identity changes or relationship stress, or you’ve just lost touch with your sense of direction. You value honesty, warmth and real conversation over quick fixes. You want to feel more grounded, confident and connected to who you truly are. You’re not looking to be 'fixed,' but to understand yourself better and move through life with clarity and self-trust.
You might feel anxious, stuck or uncertain about what comes next. Maybe you’re processing grief, identity changes or relationship stress, or you’ve just lost touch with your sense of direction. You value honesty, warmth and real conversation over quick fixes. You want to feel more grounded, confident and connected to who you truly are. You’re not looking to be 'fixed,' but to understand yourself better and move through life with clarity and self-trust.
(03) 8338 1717 View (03) 8338 1717
Photo of Chrissie Borg - Chrissie's Creative Therapies, Counsellor, MA, AThR
Chrissie's Creative Therapies
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Serves Area
I work with children and adults of all ages, to develop self-regulation techniques, process trauma, connect with the deeper, hidden parts of self, explore lifes challenges from different perspectives, and to create gentle shifts in ways of thinking, feeling and being. We start individual or group arts therapy sessions, with a short guided meditation or self-regulation practices to settle into the space and bring your self into that present moment, as a way of creating space for our somatic, arts therapy session.
I work with children and adults of all ages, to develop self-regulation techniques, process trauma, connect with the deeper, hidden parts of self, explore lifes challenges from different perspectives, and to create gentle shifts in ways of thinking, feeling and being. We start individual or group arts therapy sessions, with a short guided meditation or self-regulation practices to settle into the space and bring your self into that present moment, as a way of creating space for our somatic, arts therapy session.
(03) 9007 2072 View (03) 9007 2072
Photo of Michelle Phan, Social Worker, MA
Michelle Phan
Social Worker, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirming and neurodiversity affirming.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker who supports clients throughout their reproductive journeys and the challenges that may arise along the way. I am passionate about empowering people to make informed reproductive choices and helping them navigate infertility, birth trauma, perinatal loss (including stillbirth, miscarriage, and termination), abortion grief, adoption, perinatal mental health concerns, and the transition to parenthood. I work hard to cultivate a trusting, authentic, and collaborative therapeutic relationship to support meaningful and sustainable treatment goals.
My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirming and neurodiversity affirming.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker who supports clients throughout their reproductive journeys and the challenges that may arise along the way. I am passionate about empowering people to make informed reproductive choices and helping them navigate infertility, birth trauma, perinatal loss (including stillbirth, miscarriage, and termination), abortion grief, adoption, perinatal mental health concerns, and the transition to parenthood. I work hard to cultivate a trusting, authentic, and collaborative therapeutic relationship to support meaningful and sustainable treatment goals.
(03) 9958 8772 View (03) 9958 8772
Roberto Cusati
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Understanding that human experience is complex and individualised, my therapeutic approach revolves around person-centred counselling. This can be achieved through a range of therapeutic modalities designed to engage with individuals during therapeutic sessions. Interested in helping support people in being able to have the best possible meaningful individual life journey that is important to them.
Understanding that human experience is complex and individualised, my therapeutic approach revolves around person-centred counselling. This can be achieved through a range of therapeutic modalities designed to engage with individuals during therapeutic sessions. Interested in helping support people in being able to have the best possible meaningful individual life journey that is important to them.
(02) 9158 6466 View (02) 9158 6466
Photo of Jo Lockart - Kind Heart Counselling , Social Worker, MA, AASW
Kind Heart Counselling
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Serves Area
I offer safe, compassionate and holistic support for women (16+) Australia wide.If you’re carrying the impact of trauma—whether from sexual assault, childhood abuse, bullying, interpersonal violence or medical misogyny—I’m here to support you gently and compassionately. I have more than 15 years of training and expertise in complex childhood trauma and trauma caused by domestic, institutional or sexual abuse. You will find my approach is grounded in care, collaboration and a deep respect for you and your life experience. I’ll meet you where you are, at your pace, and help you move toward a life with more peace, clarity and meaning.
I offer safe, compassionate and holistic support for women (16+) Australia wide.If you’re carrying the impact of trauma—whether from sexual assault, childhood abuse, bullying, interpersonal violence or medical misogyny—I’m here to support you gently and compassionately. I have more than 15 years of training and expertise in complex childhood trauma and trauma caused by domestic, institutional or sexual abuse. You will find my approach is grounded in care, collaboration and a deep respect for you and your life experience. I’ll meet you where you are, at your pace, and help you move toward a life with more peace, clarity and meaning.
(03) 9068 6218 View (03) 9068 6218
Photo of Renee Hughes, Social Worker, AMHSW
Renee Hughes
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Parent Infant Mental Health clinician and Family Report Writer with over 20 years experience working in the field. I work mostly with adults experiencing mental health issues and provide a safe space for people to work through their difficulties. My goal is to help people to understand themselves on a deeper level and have better functioning relationships and a happier life! I also write private reports for the Family Court (62G & Child Impact Reports) and can support and coach individuals going through this process.
(03) 8595 4462 View (03) 8595 4462
Photo of Shilpi Sharma, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Shilpi Sharma
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Serves Area
I'm a Registered Counsellor based in Melbourne, providing compassionate, evidence-based counselling to individuals and couples across Australia. I help clients gain clarity, build emotional resilience, and create lasting growth through practical tools and actionable strategies. With certifications and training in Cognitive Principle Therapy (CPT), The Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Clinical Trauma, and Addictions-Informed Mental Health, My work is grounded in the belief that every person has the capacity to heal, grow, and realign with their true self, given the right space, guidance, and support. My Specialities Include:
I'm a Registered Counsellor based in Melbourne, providing compassionate, evidence-based counselling to individuals and couples across Australia. I help clients gain clarity, build emotional resilience, and create lasting growth through practical tools and actionable strategies. With certifications and training in Cognitive Principle Therapy (CPT), The Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Clinical Trauma, and Addictions-Informed Mental Health, My work is grounded in the belief that every person has the capacity to heal, grow, and realign with their true self, given the right space, guidance, and support. My Specialities Include:
(03) 7302 2312 View (03) 7302 2312
Photo of Marie Vakakis, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Marie Vakakis
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
Are you feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling in your relationship or daily life? Maybe you and your partner are finding it hard to connect, or perhaps you’re facing challenges on your own—feeling stressed, anxious, or like your usual energy has disappeared. When even small tasks or conversations feel like too much, it can be exhausting, and it’s easy to retreat from the world. I understand how difficult this can be, and I’m here to help. Whether you’re facing relationship issues, personal struggles, or family dynamics, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges.
Are you feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling in your relationship or daily life? Maybe you and your partner are finding it hard to connect, or perhaps you’re facing challenges on your own—feeling stressed, anxious, or like your usual energy has disappeared. When even small tasks or conversations feel like too much, it can be exhausting, and it’s easy to retreat from the world. I understand how difficult this can be, and I’m here to help. Whether you’re facing relationship issues, personal struggles, or family dynamics, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges.
(03) 8613 3424 View (03) 8613 3424
Christina Pitter
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Serves Area
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
Christina has 20 years experience as a mental health social worker and psychotherapist. She works with people whose lives have been affected by childhood & adult trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family violence, and the impact of identity, family, ethnic and cultural issues on mental health. She has a special interest in supporting clients with chronic and physical health and disability issues. Christina hopes that through therapy, people can develop a greater awareness of their emotions, thoughts, strengths and goals and an overall improvement in their wellbeing and relationships with others.
(02) 4504 0245 View (02) 4504 0245
Photo of Dominica Dorning, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dominica Dorning
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there, I offer online counselling for survivors of trauma, members of the LGBTIQA+ community and folks from diverse cultural backgrounds. We can work together to help you heal and recover from the impacts of trauma, better understand and accept yourself, improve your relationships and live a full and authentic life. I am a Clinical Psychologist with 13 years experience in the trauma field. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and am passionate about human rights and social justice issues.
Hi there, I offer online counselling for survivors of trauma, members of the LGBTIQA+ community and folks from diverse cultural backgrounds. We can work together to help you heal and recover from the impacts of trauma, better understand and accept yourself, improve your relationships and live a full and authentic life. I am a Clinical Psychologist with 13 years experience in the trauma field. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and am passionate about human rights and social justice issues.
(03) 7302 2372 View (03) 7302 2372
Photo of Christian Long - Chris Long Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Chris Long Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. I work with people to help them understand the 'bigger picture', including what might be underlying and maintaining their difficulties. I also take a skills-based to psychotherapy, with the aim of supporting people to learn practical skills which they can implement long-term. I have experience working with adults, adolescents and children.
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. I work with people to help them understand the 'bigger picture', including what might be underlying and maintaining their difficulties. I also take a skills-based to psychotherapy, with the aim of supporting people to learn practical skills which they can implement long-term. I have experience working with adults, adolescents and children.
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Photo of Kayla Cutajar, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kayla Cutajar
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Kayla is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Open Minds Studios. She has experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting issues. Kayla enjoys helping people understand themselves and their environments better and to feel more empowered in their lives. She finds joy in seeing clients feel more comfortable in themselves and their relationships. Clients who work with Kayla receive an integrated approach to therapeutic care tailored to their needs and interests.
Kayla is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Open Minds Studios. She has experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting issues. Kayla enjoys helping people understand themselves and their environments better and to feel more empowered in their lives. She finds joy in seeing clients feel more comfortable in themselves and their relationships. Clients who work with Kayla receive an integrated approach to therapeutic care tailored to their needs and interests.
(03) 8104 9965 View (03) 8104 9965

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of George Klein, Psychotherapist, PACFA
George Klein
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Carlton North, VIC 3054
I am passionate about working with people from all backgrounds; straight, queer, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, non-monogamous; as well as other therapists, social & mental health workers, sex workers.
Whatever you bring with you, I will meet you where you are. In our sessions, we move at a pace that feels right for you, using mind & body awareness to explore what is happening for you in the present. Over time, this embodiment work supports you to connect with yourself more fully, identify your needs and wants, and make the changes you want in your life.
I am passionate about working with people from all backgrounds; straight, queer, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, non-monogamous; as well as other therapists, social & mental health workers, sex workers.
Whatever you bring with you, I will meet you where you are. In our sessions, we move at a pace that feels right for you, using mind & body awareness to explore what is happening for you in the present. Over time, this embodiment work supports you to connect with yourself more fully, identify your needs and wants, and make the changes you want in your life.
0452 454 556 View 0452 454 556
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 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 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 Kodi Duruchukwu, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Kodi Duruchukwu
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Carlton, VIC 3053
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 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 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

See more therapy options for Sunshine

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.