LGBTQ+ Affirming Psychologists and Therapists in Williamstown, VIC

Photo of Timna Michal Jacks - Timna Jacks, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Timna Jacks
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in getting to the root cause of your pain, supporting adults, adolescents, children and couples. I work with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, difficult life transitions and relationship conflicts. I support individuals as well as whole families, helping parents, children, siblings and couples repair and rebuild their relationships. I don't offer quick fixes. Instead, I provide a space for you to speak freely and together, we will get to the heart of the issue. I listen carefully, to the underlying resonance of speech and draw on body-based approaches to support trauma processing and healing.
I specialise in getting to the root cause of your pain, supporting adults, adolescents, children and couples. I work with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, difficult life transitions and relationship conflicts. I support individuals as well as whole families, helping parents, children, siblings and couples repair and rebuild their relationships. I don't offer quick fixes. Instead, I provide a space for you to speak freely and together, we will get to the heart of the issue. I listen carefully, to the underlying resonance of speech and draw on body-based approaches to support trauma processing and healing.
0490 973 408 View 0490 973 408
Photo of Nathan Smith, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Nathan Smith
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help. I also facilitate Dungeons and Dragons Group Therapy sessions for clients wanting to use play and roleplay therapy toward their healing. This is a great way to boost self-esteem and confidence, work through anxiety and depression, and process trauma.
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help. I also facilitate Dungeons and Dragons Group Therapy sessions for clients wanting to use play and roleplay therapy toward their healing. This is a great way to boost self-esteem and confidence, work through anxiety and depression, and process trauma.
(03) 8594 4097 View (03) 8594 4097
Photo of Annabel Chan, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Annabel Chan
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Online Only
You might be neurodivergent and queer (or neuroqueer), part of poly/ENM or kink communities, or a sex-worker seeking care that doesn’t judge or pathologise.
I offer trauma-informed, attachment-based, neurodiversity-affirming therapy for adults seeking clarity and connection. My approach integrates psychological science with lived understanding of neuroqueer experience, ENM, kink and sex-work contexts. We build skills, insight, and self-trust at a pace that suits you.
You might be neurodivergent and queer (or neuroqueer), part of poly/ENM or kink communities, or a sex-worker seeking care that doesn’t judge or pathologise.
I offer trauma-informed, attachment-based, neurodiversity-affirming therapy for adults seeking clarity and connection. My approach integrates psychological science with lived understanding of neuroqueer experience, ENM, kink and sex-work contexts. We build skills, insight, and self-trust at a pace that suits you.
0413 887 975 View 0413 887 975
Photo of Penny Schleiger, Social Worker, AMHSW
Penny Schleiger
Social Worker, AMHSW
Williamstown, VIC 3016
Located Newport and online, Penny brings over 25 years’ experience supporting adults, children, couples, and families. She works with trauma (including sexual assault, family violence, and crime), suicidal thoughts, relationship and communication difficulties, and mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, ED, gender dysphoria, self-harm, psychosis and stress. Penny offers a welcoming, compassionate, and non-judgmental space, where you can feel safe, heard, and understood. She works alongside you to build insight and support meaningful change.
Located Newport and online, Penny brings over 25 years’ experience supporting adults, children, couples, and families. She works with trauma (including sexual assault, family violence, and crime), suicidal thoughts, relationship and communication difficulties, and mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, ED, gender dysphoria, self-harm, psychosis and stress. Penny offers a welcoming, compassionate, and non-judgmental space, where you can feel safe, heard, and understood. She works alongside you to build insight and support meaningful change.
0480 766 544 View 0480 766 544
Photo of Renee Elizabeth Boyle, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Renee Elizabeth Boyle
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Williamstown, VIC 3016
At some point, many of us reach a place where pushing through no longer works. You might feel disconnected from yourself, overwhelmed by responsibility, or unsure how to move forward — even though you’ve tried to cope on your own. I’m Renee, a registered counsellor who believes that feeling understood is often the first step toward real change. I create a space where you can show up exactly as you are — without judgement, pressure, or expectations.
At some point, many of us reach a place where pushing through no longer works. You might feel disconnected from yourself, overwhelmed by responsibility, or unsure how to move forward — even though you’ve tried to cope on your own. I’m Renee, a registered counsellor who believes that feeling understood is often the first step toward real change. I create a space where you can show up exactly as you are — without judgement, pressure, or expectations.
0418 724 108 View 0418 724 108
Photo of Emily Barber, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Emily Barber
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Williamstown, VIC 3016
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 Dr Tanja Takala, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Tanja Takala
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Williamstown, VIC 3016
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 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 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 Patricia (Patty) Mclean, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Patricia (Patty) Mclean
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Need help and support? Together we can relax, reflect and collaborate to achieve your goals. My counselling, leadership and early years qualifications, 30+ years of experience working with families and children, as a mother with 3 (now mature) children, living and working in a richly diverse community, across multiple countries all helps. I am experienced with customers, families and children with complex needs, anxiety, grief and here to listen, support and take time to help you as an individual become that confident expert in your own life.
Need help and support? Together we can relax, reflect and collaborate to achieve your goals. My counselling, leadership and early years qualifications, 30+ years of experience working with families and children, as a mother with 3 (now mature) children, living and working in a richly diverse community, across multiple countries all helps. I am experienced with customers, families and children with complex needs, anxiety, grief and here to listen, support and take time to help you as an individual become that confident expert in your own life.
(03) 7302 2790 View (03) 7302 2790
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
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 Natalie Bryson, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Natalie Bryson
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Serves Area
Hi! I'm Nat, a Provisional Psychologist with a background in teaching and education, yoga, and lived experience of chronic illness. I support teens and adults who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or navigating life's challenges with greater clarity and confidence. My approach is warm, collaborative, and evidence-based, creating a safe space where you can explore what's going on, build practical skills, and move towards meaningful, lasting change. I'd love to support you on your journey.
Hi! I'm Nat, a Provisional Psychologist with a background in teaching and education, yoga, and lived experience of chronic illness. I support teens and adults who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or navigating life's challenges with greater clarity and confidence. My approach is warm, collaborative, and evidence-based, creating a safe space where you can explore what's going on, build practical skills, and move towards meaningful, lasting change. I'd love to support you on your journey.
(03) 7302 2420 View (03) 7302 2420
Photo of Jenni Boon, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jenni Boon
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
I aim to provide a warm and non-judgemental therapeutic environment for my clients that allows them to explore their problems, clarify their core values and beliefs and establish clear therapeutic goals in order to work towards achieving lasting positive change in their lives.
I aim to provide a warm and non-judgemental therapeutic environment for my clients that allows them to explore their problems, clarify their core values and beliefs and establish clear therapeutic goals in order to work towards achieving lasting positive change in their lives.
0427 237 051 View 0427 237 051
Photo of Emma Rice, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Emma Rice
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Emma dedicated to improving the mental health and wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan with a wide range of presenting issues. Emma is passionate about creating a safe, non-judgemental and empowering environment and relationship, to allow clients to explore the difficulties that are arising in their lives and develop self-awareness and self-compassion. She aims to promote self-acceptance and positive change by drawing on individuals strengths, and helping them move towards living a rich, full and meaningful life.
Emma dedicated to improving the mental health and wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan with a wide range of presenting issues. Emma is passionate about creating a safe, non-judgemental and empowering environment and relationship, to allow clients to explore the difficulties that are arising in their lives and develop self-awareness and self-compassion. She aims to promote self-acceptance and positive change by drawing on individuals strengths, and helping them move towards living a rich, full and meaningful life.
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Photo of Daniel Paglialonga, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Daniel Paglialonga
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Have you ever been kept up late at night reliving distressing memories? Does your mind chatter and strong emotions interfere with your day-to-day? Are you looking to understand yourself more and make some changes? If your answer is "yes", then we should talk.
Have you ever been kept up late at night reliving distressing memories? Does your mind chatter and strong emotions interfere with your day-to-day? Are you looking to understand yourself more and make some changes? If your answer is "yes", then we should talk.
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Photo of Ess Binet, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Ess Binet
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
I take a non-pathologising, queer-affirming, neuro-affirming approach, that acknowledges how culture, power and social context shape our experiences.
Together, we will slow down, notice patterns, and tune into the wisdom of your body. Supporting you to express yourself, untangle past experiences, build relational skills, process emotions, deepen self trust and reclaim all parts of you to feel whole + empowered. This method utilises Gestalt therapy, parts work (IFS), Somatic experiencing, ACT.
I take a non-pathologising, queer-affirming, neuro-affirming approach, that acknowledges how culture, power and social context shape our experiences.
Together, we will slow down, notice patterns, and tune into the wisdom of your body. Supporting you to express yourself, untangle past experiences, build relational skills, process emotions, deepen self trust and reclaim all parts of you to feel whole + empowered. This method utilises Gestalt therapy, parts work (IFS), Somatic experiencing, ACT.
(02) 8074 5874 View (02) 8074 5874
Photo of Lidija Trpcevska - Bright Psych, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bright Psych
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Bright Psych provides a comprehensive psychological service for adolescents and adults.
Bright Psych provides a comprehensive psychological service for adolescents and adults.
(03) 9068 6415 View (03) 9068 6415
Photo of Alannah Giavara, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Alannah Giavara
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m passionate about supporting teens and adults across a spectrum of identities and experiences, including neurodiverse, gender-diverse, and culturally diverse clients. I specialise in working with clients with anxiety, low mood/depression, friendship/relationship challenges, eating disorders, autism and ADHD (a full list is a little further down). I take a person-centred approach, meaning I focus on what works best for each individual, respecting their unique strengths and challenges.
I’m passionate about supporting teens and adults across a spectrum of identities and experiences, including neurodiverse, gender-diverse, and culturally diverse clients. I specialise in working with clients with anxiety, low mood/depression, friendship/relationship challenges, eating disorders, autism and ADHD (a full list is a little further down). I take a person-centred approach, meaning I focus on what works best for each individual, respecting their unique strengths and challenges.
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Photo of Camille Moir, MA
Camille Moir
Verified Verified
Williamstown, VIC 3016
0433 976 000 View 0433 976 000
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.