LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Burnaby, BC
You’ve been trying to keep it all together — showing up for everyone, staying strong, holding in the emotions, keeping quiet — but deep down, you’re lonely, hurt, and lost.
You feel it at night when everything goes quiet. You feel it in your body, in your chest, in your thoughts that keep looping. You’re exhausted. And a part of you knows… something needs to change.
This is where healing begins.
You’ve been trying to keep it all together — showing up for everyone, staying strong, holding in the emotions, keeping quiet — but deep down, you’re lonely, hurt, and lost.
You feel it at night when everything goes quiet. You feel it in your body, in your chest, in your thoughts that keep looping. You’re exhausted. And a part of you knows… something needs to change.
This is where healing begins.
Are you tired of the repetitive cycle of talk therapy that brings short-term relief but fails to provide lasting change? Are you exhausted from the overwhelming grip of anxiety or haunted by past traumas? Do low self-esteem and depression relentlessly hold you back, making life feel unmanageable? Unquestionably, these issues present immense challenges, but there's hope. Our ideal clients are ready to move beyond traditional therapy. They're seeking a dedicated team who truly understands complex trauma and identity struggles, and who will actively guide them towards genuine healing and a more fulfilling life.
Are you tired of the repetitive cycle of talk therapy that brings short-term relief but fails to provide lasting change? Are you exhausted from the overwhelming grip of anxiety or haunted by past traumas? Do low self-esteem and depression relentlessly hold you back, making life feel unmanageable? Unquestionably, these issues present immense challenges, but there's hope. Our ideal clients are ready to move beyond traditional therapy. They're seeking a dedicated team who truly understands complex trauma and identity struggles, and who will actively guide them towards genuine healing and a more fulfilling life.
The Centre for Psychodynamic Insights is a virtual psychotherapy clinic specializing in Psychodynamic psychotherapy. This approach focuses on revealing, understanding, and resolving underlying emotions and root causes of symptoms through evidence-based interventions and a comprehensive treatment plan. With an in-depth collaborative discussion and analysis of unconscious thoughts and emotions from childhood until the present day, we can explore how they inform us today to help relieve symptoms and develop targeted strategies to foster change.
The Centre for Psychodynamic Insights is a virtual psychotherapy clinic specializing in Psychodynamic psychotherapy. This approach focuses on revealing, understanding, and resolving underlying emotions and root causes of symptoms through evidence-based interventions and a comprehensive treatment plan. With an in-depth collaborative discussion and analysis of unconscious thoughts and emotions from childhood until the present day, we can explore how they inform us today to help relieve symptoms and develop targeted strategies to foster change.
Accessing support is a radical act of courage—a step towards positive change. At Side by Side Counselling we welcome all experiences and histories, working together to navigate the challenges of life with ease. Drawing on the approaches of transpersonal psychology, somatic modalities, Bowen family systems, Gestalt therapy and person-centered therapy, we aim to find a path of understanding and support that best suits your needs and experiences.
Accessing support is a radical act of courage—a step towards positive change. At Side by Side Counselling we welcome all experiences and histories, working together to navigate the challenges of life with ease. Drawing on the approaches of transpersonal psychology, somatic modalities, Bowen family systems, Gestalt therapy and person-centered therapy, we aim to find a path of understanding and support that best suits your needs and experiences.
I'm especially passionate about supporting BIPOC and queer communities, neurodivergent folks, and anyone navigating the weight of systemic harm, identity, or burnout.
My approach is holistic, inclusive, and rooted in connection. I draw on relational-cultural therapy, narrative therapy, and somatic practices, and I’m guided by frameworks that honour the wisdom of lived experience. I’m not here to "fix" you… I’m here to walk alongside you as you reconnect with your own agency, strength, and self-understanding.
I'm especially passionate about supporting BIPOC and queer communities, neurodivergent folks, and anyone navigating the weight of systemic harm, identity, or burnout.
My approach is holistic, inclusive, and rooted in connection. I draw on relational-cultural therapy, narrative therapy, and somatic practices, and I’m guided by frameworks that honour the wisdom of lived experience. I’m not here to "fix" you… I’m here to walk alongside you as you reconnect with your own agency, strength, and self-understanding.
I strongly believe that we all have the capacity to heal and to move towards our preferred future. We often can't do this alone. Collaborating with you and attuning my practice to ways that work best for you, I offer a safe space for reflection and insight building. I have worked with a broad range of people over the years and bring with me a commitment to anti-oppressive practice and attention to the contexts that contribute to suffering and to healing. We are living in a time of immense stress and increased isolation and this takes a toll. Reaching out for support is an important act of wellness and I welcome your enquiry.
I strongly believe that we all have the capacity to heal and to move towards our preferred future. We often can't do this alone. Collaborating with you and attuning my practice to ways that work best for you, I offer a safe space for reflection and insight building. I have worked with a broad range of people over the years and bring with me a commitment to anti-oppressive practice and attention to the contexts that contribute to suffering and to healing. We are living in a time of immense stress and increased isolation and this takes a toll. Reaching out for support is an important act of wellness and I welcome your enquiry.
I support BIPOC, Asian, and queer folx navigating relational stress, identity and sexuality exploration, adult ADHD, breakups, grief, burnout, chronic pain, and emotion regulation through culturally sensitive, attachment-based care.
Are you feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in painful patterns with the people you care about? Maybe you seem to be managing on the outside, but inside you feel anxious, heavy, irritable, withdrawn, exhausted, or not quite like yourself. I support clients with relationship and family stress, dating and breakup concerns, anxiety, low mood, burnout, people-pleasing, grief, chronic pain, sleep difficulties, trauma, life transitions, identity or sexuality exploration, cultural and family expectations, and recovery after a car accident. I also offer direct billing for eligible ICBC counselling clients.
I support BIPOC, Asian, and queer folx navigating relational stress, identity and sexuality exploration, adult ADHD, breakups, grief, burnout, chronic pain, and emotion regulation through culturally sensitive, attachment-based care.
Are you feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in painful patterns with the people you care about? Maybe you seem to be managing on the outside, but inside you feel anxious, heavy, irritable, withdrawn, exhausted, or not quite like yourself. I support clients with relationship and family stress, dating and breakup concerns, anxiety, low mood, burnout, people-pleasing, grief, chronic pain, sleep difficulties, trauma, life transitions, identity or sexuality exploration, cultural and family expectations, and recovery after a car accident. I also offer direct billing for eligible ICBC counselling clients.
As a neurodivergent and queer therapist, I bring both professional training and lived experience.
I have a non-judgmental, gentle and direct communication style. I rely on integrative, evidence-based methodologies rooted in trauma-informed and affirming care. I have nearly 20 years of experience working with neurodivergent folks, individuals experiencing mental illness, and over a decade working with individuals in the criminal justice system.
As a neurodivergent and queer therapist, I bring both professional training and lived experience.
I have a non-judgmental, gentle and direct communication style. I rely on integrative, evidence-based methodologies rooted in trauma-informed and affirming care. I have nearly 20 years of experience working with neurodivergent folks, individuals experiencing mental illness, and over a decade working with individuals in the criminal justice system.
Accepting New Clients
I believe change is hard and certainly possible!
My approach is active-directive, as needed, recognizing the importance in relationships as being a catalyst for change.
Accepting New Clients
I believe change is hard and certainly possible!
My approach is active-directive, as needed, recognizing the importance in relationships as being a catalyst for change.
*Services by student counsellors and Associates available* People we work with describe feeling disconnected, invalidated, and powerless after experiencing trauma and injustice. Some have felt stuck and overwhelmed in the process of reconnecting with themselves, their communities, and in navigating the dominant culture. We support clients in processing their experiences and deepening their understanding of themselves and their relationships. We affirm clients' needs and desires and value reciprocity and collaboration. Honoring clients' knowledge, we invite clients to co-create safety and exercise their self-determination.
*Services by student counsellors and Associates available* People we work with describe feeling disconnected, invalidated, and powerless after experiencing trauma and injustice. Some have felt stuck and overwhelmed in the process of reconnecting with themselves, their communities, and in navigating the dominant culture. We support clients in processing their experiences and deepening their understanding of themselves and their relationships. We affirm clients' needs and desires and value reciprocity and collaboration. Honoring clients' knowledge, we invite clients to co-create safety and exercise their self-determination.
My approach to counselling is shaped by my experiences as a queer, BIPOC, immigrant woman, and rooted in feminist, anti-oppression and justice oriented framework.
Specialty areas: +Interpersonal and relationship issues, +Personal development, +Sexuality and gender identity, +Trauma and violence, +Partner abuse, +Immigration and adjustment, +Life transition, + Queer counselling, +Couple's counselling, +Trans counselling, +Poly and kink-friendly counselling.
My approach to counselling is shaped by my experiences as a queer, BIPOC, immigrant woman, and rooted in feminist, anti-oppression and justice oriented framework.
Specialty areas: +Interpersonal and relationship issues, +Personal development, +Sexuality and gender identity, +Trauma and violence, +Partner abuse, +Immigration and adjustment, +Life transition, + Queer counselling, +Couple's counselling, +Trans counselling, +Poly and kink-friendly counselling.
The Centre for Psychodynamic Insights is a virtual clinic specializing in psychodynamic psychotherapy. This approach explores the root causes of symptoms by uncovering and understanding underlying emotions through evidence-based treatment. Through collaborative dialogue, we examine unconscious thoughts and emotions shaped from childhood to the present. We work to relieve symptoms by understanding how these patterns affect current experiences, and create targeted strategies for meaningful change long-term.
The Centre for Psychodynamic Insights is a virtual clinic specializing in psychodynamic psychotherapy. This approach explores the root causes of symptoms by uncovering and understanding underlying emotions through evidence-based treatment. Through collaborative dialogue, we examine unconscious thoughts and emotions shaped from childhood to the present. We work to relieve symptoms by understanding how these patterns affect current experiences, and create targeted strategies for meaningful change long-term.
I am intrigued by helping people navigate their own stories and build the life they want. I work with adults and youth 13+ in helping them understand themselves and the world around them a little better. I believe that counselling can bring insight and perspective that can help transform our experiences. The connection between the counsellor and client is critical in laying the groundwork to inspire positive growth.
I am intrigued by helping people navigate their own stories and build the life they want. I work with adults and youth 13+ in helping them understand themselves and the world around them a little better. I believe that counselling can bring insight and perspective that can help transform our experiences. The connection between the counsellor and client is critical in laying the groundwork to inspire positive growth.
I also offer queer and trans positive counselling, poly-affirming counselling, and hormone readiness assessments.
We each go through difficult times in our lives and you deserve support, compassion, and understanding. I work with individuals and relationships to heal, grow, and thrive. I offer a non-judgmental, collaborative, and trauma-informed space for you to navigate life’s difficulties, cope with distress, and create well-being and change in ways that are important to you. Counselling is a space for you and your unique concerns and I work to meet you where you are at in both your strengths and challenges. You are the expert in your life and I'm here to offer support and resources for meeting your goals.
I also offer queer and trans positive counselling, poly-affirming counselling, and hormone readiness assessments.
We each go through difficult times in our lives and you deserve support, compassion, and understanding. I work with individuals and relationships to heal, grow, and thrive. I offer a non-judgmental, collaborative, and trauma-informed space for you to navigate life’s difficulties, cope with distress, and create well-being and change in ways that are important to you. Counselling is a space for you and your unique concerns and I work to meet you where you are at in both your strengths and challenges. You are the expert in your life and I'm here to offer support and resources for meeting your goals.
We are a leading counselling practice in Vancouver, BC specializing in empowering individuals to live authentic, meaningful lives. Our goal is to equip you with the tools and self-knowledge to manage emotions, overcome anxiety and depression, achieve your goals and see the world in a new perspective. We work with you to inspire confidence, peace of mind and, ultimately, lifelong resilience.
We are a leading counselling practice in Vancouver, BC specializing in empowering individuals to live authentic, meaningful lives. Our goal is to equip you with the tools and self-knowledge to manage emotions, overcome anxiety and depression, achieve your goals and see the world in a new perspective. We work with you to inspire confidence, peace of mind and, ultimately, lifelong resilience.
I'm a Registered Social Worker with a relational, social justice oriented, and somatic lens. My areas of specialization include trauma, particularly sexual assault; intimate partner violence; and childhood abuse. I frequently (though not exclusively!) work with folks who identify as LGBTQ2S. I received my MSW from UBC in 2016.
I'm a Registered Social Worker with a relational, social justice oriented, and somatic lens. My areas of specialization include trauma, particularly sexual assault; intimate partner violence; and childhood abuse. I frequently (though not exclusively!) work with folks who identify as LGBTQ2S. I received my MSW from UBC in 2016.
I am a white, queer, second-generation settler to the lower mainland of BC.
If you feel like you are struggling or stuck in life and need a supportive ear in this overwhelming world, I can help. Whether you are going through a transitional period of life, struggling with a past trauma, or discovering your own changing identity and values, I can support you through this time.
I am a white, queer, second-generation settler to the lower mainland of BC.
If you feel like you are struggling or stuck in life and need a supportive ear in this overwhelming world, I can help. Whether you are going through a transitional period of life, struggling with a past trauma, or discovering your own changing identity and values, I can support you through this time.
When your relationship hits a breaking point—whether you're dealing with betrayal, growing apart, or feeling deeply alone—you don't have to figure it out by yourself. Imagine having an experienced guide in your corner. Someone to help you calm the chaos, see things clearly, and take the right next step. Whether your goal is to save your marriage, peacefully navigate a separation, or build the kind of meaningful connection you truly deserve, I'm here to help.
When your relationship hits a breaking point—whether you're dealing with betrayal, growing apart, or feeling deeply alone—you don't have to figure it out by yourself. Imagine having an experienced guide in your corner. Someone to help you calm the chaos, see things clearly, and take the right next step. Whether your goal is to save your marriage, peacefully navigate a separation, or build the kind of meaningful connection you truly deserve, I'm here to help.
There is nothing more challenging than facing adversity alone and experiencing the profound loneliness it brings. As human beings, we repeatedly endure moments of brokenness and rebirth—yearning for a chance to breathe amid our pursuit of perfection and longing for a sense of home while striving for independence. Do you often find yourself searching for answers, struggling to escape the feeling that “the world wouldn’t care if I weren’t here”? Are you looking for a fellow traveller to walk alongside you as you confront life’s inevitable suffering?
There is nothing more challenging than facing adversity alone and experiencing the profound loneliness it brings. As human beings, we repeatedly endure moments of brokenness and rebirth—yearning for a chance to breathe amid our pursuit of perfection and longing for a sense of home while striving for independence. Do you often find yourself searching for answers, struggling to escape the feeling that “the world wouldn’t care if I weren’t here”? Are you looking for a fellow traveller to walk alongside you as you confront life’s inevitable suffering?
I am also experienced in providing specialized support to the LGBTQ+ community as well as gender affirming care.
Depending on your concerns, goals, and needs, I utilize a variety of clinical approaches and techniques to assist you. Approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused, Person Centred, Mindfulness and other modalities are customized to aid in your treatment.
I am also experienced in providing specialized support to the LGBTQ+ community as well as gender affirming care.
Depending on your concerns, goals, and needs, I utilize a variety of clinical approaches and techniques to assist you. Approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused, Person Centred, Mindfulness and other modalities are customized to aid in your treatment.
See more therapy options for Burnaby
Nearby LGBTQ+ Counsellors Searches for Burnaby
- Coquitlam
- Delta
- New Westminster
- North Vancouver
- Pitt Meadows
- Port Coquitlam
- Port Moody
- Richmond
- Surrey
- Vancouver
- West Vancouver
- White Rock
LGBTQ+ Counsellors
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialised training, either during their degree programme or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalisation in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialised training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.