LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Vancouver, BC

Photo of Cheyenne Fox Tree-McGrath, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, MSW, LCSW
Cheyenne Fox Tree-McGrath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Queer Indigenous therapist, I understand the complexities of navigating identity and the impact it can have on mental well-being.
I'm committed to fostering an environment where your truth is honored, your experiences valued, and where you're encouraged to embrace every facet of who you are. I use an integrative trauma informed approach blended with traditional Indigenous teachings, while centering important discussions of intersectionality and identity that impact your daily.
As a Queer Indigenous therapist, I understand the complexities of navigating identity and the impact it can have on mental well-being.
I'm committed to fostering an environment where your truth is honored, your experiences valued, and where you're encouraged to embrace every facet of who you are. I use an integrative trauma informed approach blended with traditional Indigenous teachings, while centering important discussions of intersectionality and identity that impact your daily.
View
Photo of Connor Denoon, Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Connor Denoon
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a Registered Clinical Counsellor licensed in British Columbia.
I situate myself within a trauma-informed, Person-Centered framework; and draw upon a handful of evidence based approaches tailored to best fit my clients' acute needs. I believe we all have a unique and instinctual desire for personal growth and fulfillment, and our sessions will help you uncover and strengthen your path forward.
I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a Registered Clinical Counsellor licensed in British Columbia.
I situate myself within a trauma-informed, Person-Centered framework; and draw upon a handful of evidence based approaches tailored to best fit my clients' acute needs. I believe we all have a unique and instinctual desire for personal growth and fulfillment, and our sessions will help you uncover and strengthen your path forward.
(778) 902-4167 View (778) 902-4167
Photo of Michael Indermaur, Counsellor, RCC, MACP, BSc
Michael Indermaur
Counsellor, RCC, MACP, BSc
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5L
I work with a lot of men and LGBTQ+ people, but my clientele are quite diverse; straight men, women, and enby folk often value my perspectives.
Gestalt, interpersonal, narrative, mindfulness-based, and cognitive behavioural therapies are mainstays of my work. I have a science education (physiology and genetics), and have received training in the therapeutic use of rhythm, Internal Family Systems, sex and couples therapy, polyvagal theory, and complementary medicine for mental health.
I work with a lot of men and LGBTQ+ people, but my clientele are quite diverse; straight men, women, and enby folk often value my perspectives.
Gestalt, interpersonal, narrative, mindfulness-based, and cognitive behavioural therapies are mainstays of my work. I have a science education (physiology and genetics), and have received training in the therapeutic use of rhythm, Internal Family Systems, sex and couples therapy, polyvagal theory, and complementary medicine for mental health.
(604) 262-1562 View (604) 262-1562
Photo of Nav Khabra, Counsellor, RCC
Nav Khabra
Counsellor, RCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a neurodivergent, queer, and racialized counsellor, I’m here to provide a space where your experiences are seen and validated.
At Sunward Journeys, I provide neurodivergent counselling for neurodivergent people. Whether you have a diagnosis of ADHD, autism, AuDHD, or simply relate to these experiences, I offer tailored mental health support to help empower you to thrive. I enjoy working with adults, teens, and relationships.
As a neurodivergent, queer, and racialized counsellor, I’m here to provide a space where your experiences are seen and validated.
At Sunward Journeys, I provide neurodivergent counselling for neurodivergent people. Whether you have a diagnosis of ADHD, autism, AuDHD, or simply relate to these experiences, I offer tailored mental health support to help empower you to thrive. I enjoy working with adults, teens, and relationships.
(343) 321-0443 View (343) 321-0443
Photo of Tess Lavelle-Sutton, Registered Social Worker, RSW
Tess Lavelle-Sutton
Registered Social Worker, RSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a queer and neurodivergent ON and BC Registered Social Worker, and have experience in providing counselling support in a variety of community-based settings.
Clients I've worked with over time describe me as authentic, compassionate, and non-judgemental. When working together some themes explored could be identity, trauma healing, self-compassion, mood challenges, life transitions, boundary navigation, relationships, coping strategies, and more.
I am a queer and neurodivergent ON and BC Registered Social Worker, and have experience in providing counselling support in a variety of community-based settings.
Clients I've worked with over time describe me as authentic, compassionate, and non-judgemental. When working together some themes explored could be identity, trauma healing, self-compassion, mood challenges, life transitions, boundary navigation, relationships, coping strategies, and more.
View
Photo of Theo (Teddy) Chu, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MKin , MC, RCC
Theo (Teddy) Chu
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MKin , MC, RCC
Online Only
I specialize in working with the Asian population, athletes, as well as GBQ ( gay, bisexual, queer) men.
My role is to help you gain insight, challenge you, highlight your innate strengths, and point out what you may be unaware of, all while holding space for you in a compassionate, curious manner. We're on a journey of co-creation where you're the expert on your life and experiences, while I'm the expert in facilitating growth and change.
I specialize in working with the Asian population, athletes, as well as GBQ ( gay, bisexual, queer) men.
My role is to help you gain insight, challenge you, highlight your innate strengths, and point out what you may be unaware of, all while holding space for you in a compassionate, curious manner. We're on a journey of co-creation where you're the expert on your life and experiences, while I'm the expert in facilitating growth and change.
(647) 492-3083 View (647) 492-3083
Photo of Justine Little, Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Justine Little
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5L
Would you prefer to work with a queer therapist with experience supporting 2SLGBTQ+ folks and who is committed to integrating social justice into therapeutic work?
I am certified in Somatic Experiencing, a practice that can help you connect with the here and now through connecting with your own body, your environment and important people and resources in your life. I am also trained in Deep Brain Reorienting, a gentle yet powerful therapy to address challenging experiences from the past by targeting present triggers.
Would you prefer to work with a queer therapist with experience supporting 2SLGBTQ+ folks and who is committed to integrating social justice into therapeutic work?
I am certified in Somatic Experiencing, a practice that can help you connect with the here and now through connecting with your own body, your environment and important people and resources in your life. I am also trained in Deep Brain Reorienting, a gentle yet powerful therapy to address challenging experiences from the past by targeting present triggers.
View
Photo of Lorraine Grieves, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Lorraine Grieves
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Online Only
My practice has been influenced by narrative, trans feminist, social justice-focused and solution-oriented modalities.
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.
My practice has been influenced by narrative, trans feminist, social justice-focused and solution-oriented modalities.
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.
View
Photo of Kelly Xiao, Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Kelly Xiao
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Vancouver, BC V6J
As a queer person of colour, I understand that feeling understood by another person can be an incredibly transformative experience.
By applying a feminist, intersectional, and anti-oppressive lens, I'll be attuned to the complexities of your lived experiences and the potential societal influences on your life. My areas of specialty include: navigating systemic barriers, trauma, holding two or more cultural identities, and LGBTQ2S+ identities.
As a queer person of colour, I understand that feeling understood by another person can be an incredibly transformative experience.
By applying a feminist, intersectional, and anti-oppressive lens, I'll be attuned to the complexities of your lived experiences and the potential societal influences on your life. My areas of specialty include: navigating systemic barriers, trauma, holding two or more cultural identities, and LGBTQ2S+ identities.
(587) 507-8578 View (587) 507-8578
Photo of Devin Chen, Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Devin Chen
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
I am a psychotherapist (he/him) specializing in working with marginalized individuals, including gay, bi, queer men, masculine-identifying people, and people of color who have experienced discrimination, sexual or physical assault, or interpersonal challenges.
My approach integrates relational therapy, mindfulness, and somatic practices—focusing on body-based awareness without physical contact. I emphasize your inherent strengths and resilience. Together, we will explore how you relate to yourself, others, and your community in a supportive space designed for growth and healing.
I am a psychotherapist (he/him) specializing in working with marginalized individuals, including gay, bi, queer men, masculine-identifying people, and people of color who have experienced discrimination, sexual or physical assault, or interpersonal challenges.
My approach integrates relational therapy, mindfulness, and somatic practices—focusing on body-based awareness without physical contact. I emphasize your inherent strengths and resilience. Together, we will explore how you relate to yourself, others, and your community in a supportive space designed for growth and healing.
(778) 949-9031 View (778) 949-9031
Photo of Shana Soo, Counsellor
Shana Soo
Counsellor
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Clients who see me: -ND/ADHD/disabilities/spoonies - queer -kinky/leather -QTBIPOC -Poly/ethical non-monogamy -Chronic illnesses
Guided by anti-oppression, intersectional feminism, disability justice, harm reduction, and anti-colonialism, Shana continues to dismantle and disrupt systems and name them and their impact in the therapeutic space. Shana continues learning to be a better advocate for safe spaces both in and outside of the counselling room.
Clients who see me: -ND/ADHD/disabilities/spoonies - queer -kinky/leather -QTBIPOC -Poly/ethical non-monogamy -Chronic illnesses
Guided by anti-oppression, intersectional feminism, disability justice, harm reduction, and anti-colonialism, Shana continues to dismantle and disrupt systems and name them and their impact in the therapeutic space. Shana continues learning to be a better advocate for safe spaces both in and outside of the counselling room.
(506) 909-0268 View (506) 909-0268
As a proudly LGBTQ2SIA+ owned and queer and BIPOC operating practice, we create truly safe, inclusive spaces.
At Empowered Living, based at The Den Wellness Collective, you'll find compassionate, client-centered mental health support throughout Vancouver. Our diverse team of integrative counsellors creates a welcoming environment whether you're seeking individual, relationship, or group support. We tailor our approach to your unique journey, drawing from effective modalities like CBT, DBT, somatic practices, and narrative therapy. You're not just a client; you're a valued individual whose story matters, and we're committed to helping you write its next chapters.
As a proudly LGBTQ2SIA+ owned and queer and BIPOC operating practice, we create truly safe, inclusive spaces.
At Empowered Living, based at The Den Wellness Collective, you'll find compassionate, client-centered mental health support throughout Vancouver. Our diverse team of integrative counsellors creates a welcoming environment whether you're seeking individual, relationship, or group support. We tailor our approach to your unique journey, drawing from effective modalities like CBT, DBT, somatic practices, and narrative therapy. You're not just a client; you're a valued individual whose story matters, and we're committed to helping you write its next chapters.
(672) 202-4377 View (672) 202-4377
Photo of Victor Wakarchuk, Counsellor, RCC, MSW, RSW
Victor Wakarchuk
Counsellor, RCC, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you a gay man who feels anxious, stressed, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward—either in your life or your relationship?
As a fellow gay man, I help others work through anxiety, intimacy challenges, and relationship struggles with compassion. Whether you're battling overthinking, emotional distance, or disconnection, I support individuals and relationships in untangling patterns, improving communication, and building a stronger connection—within themselves and with each other.
Are you a gay man who feels anxious, stressed, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward—either in your life or your relationship?
As a fellow gay man, I help others work through anxiety, intimacy challenges, and relationship struggles with compassion. Whether you're battling overthinking, emotional distance, or disconnection, I support individuals and relationships in untangling patterns, improving communication, and building a stronger connection—within themselves and with each other.
(877) 542-8727 View (877) 542-8727
Photo of Jordan Gruenhage, Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC
Jordan Gruenhage
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you a gay man who is overwhelmed by the intensity of your feelings?
To start, we’ll create a customized plan for your counselling. Often, I’ll first teach you some skills for understanding and managing your emotions so that you feel more in control and grounded early on. We’ll also explore your history so that we can do more advanced therapeutic work that focuses on addressing your unique challenges and achieving your goals.
Are you a gay man who is overwhelmed by the intensity of your feelings?
To start, we’ll create a customized plan for your counselling. Often, I’ll first teach you some skills for understanding and managing your emotions so that you feel more in control and grounded early on. We’ll also explore your history so that we can do more advanced therapeutic work that focuses on addressing your unique challenges and achieving your goals.
(877) 542-8727 View (877) 542-8727
Photo of Courtney Handja, Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Courtney Handja
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
14 Endorsed
Online Only
I thrive when working with queer clients and those navigating reproductive journeys, especially the complex parts—loss, identity, expectations, and more.
I offer affirming, queer-centered counselling where you can show up fully as yourself. Together, we’ll navigate life’s challenges with care and collaboration. My focus includes perinatal mental health, abortion, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, gender, and identity.
I thrive when working with queer clients and those navigating reproductive journeys, especially the complex parts—loss, identity, expectations, and more.
I offer affirming, queer-centered counselling where you can show up fully as yourself. Together, we’ll navigate life’s challenges with care and collaboration. My focus includes perinatal mental health, abortion, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, gender, and identity.
(365) 659-2727 View (365) 659-2727
Photo of Cheuk Yin (Isaac) Mo, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CH
Cheuk Yin (Isaac) Mo
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CH
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6P
My passion is in individual counselling, grief counselling , and working with men and LGBTQ+ community.
I have provided counseling to various communities, and have conducted in-depth learning on grief counseling, hypnotherapy, trauma healing and supporting the LGBTQ2I+ community. I am dedicated to accompanying those who are suffering, witnessing the transformation and growth of different lives, which reinforces my understanding of the meaning of life.
My passion is in individual counselling, grief counselling , and working with men and LGBTQ+ community.
I have provided counseling to various communities, and have conducted in-depth learning on grief counseling, hypnotherapy, trauma healing and supporting the LGBTQ2I+ community. I am dedicated to accompanying those who are suffering, witnessing the transformation and growth of different lives, which reinforces my understanding of the meaning of life.
(249) 554-9742 View (249) 554-9742
Photo of Stephen 'skip' Olshefsky, Counsellor, MSc
Stephen 'skip' Olshefsky
Counsellor, MSc
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6G
I am a sex-positive practitioner offering counseling and sex therapy, primarily for fellow gay men seeking to reclaim their sense of self from societal expectations.
I provide a safe, supportive, and affirming space for LGBTQ2 individuals across the spectrum of gender and sexual diversity. My practice is grounded in a sex-positive framework, where sexuality is viewed as a natural, healthy, and enriching part of life. I specialize in working with issues related to sex, intimacy, identity, and gender affirmation. Sessions may explore topics such as desire, kink, relationships, emotional well-being, and navigating life within and beyond heteronormative and homonormative pressures. I support clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, loneliness, and relational challenges.
I am a sex-positive practitioner offering counseling and sex therapy, primarily for fellow gay men seeking to reclaim their sense of self from societal expectations.
I provide a safe, supportive, and affirming space for LGBTQ2 individuals across the spectrum of gender and sexual diversity. My practice is grounded in a sex-positive framework, where sexuality is viewed as a natural, healthy, and enriching part of life. I specialize in working with issues related to sex, intimacy, identity, and gender affirmation. Sessions may explore topics such as desire, kink, relationships, emotional well-being, and navigating life within and beyond heteronormative and homonormative pressures. I support clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, loneliness, and relational challenges.
(639) 307-4134 View (639) 307-4134
Photo of Robbie Ruddell, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Robbie Ruddell
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Online Only
As a queer-identified counsellor, I am sensitive to intersecting identities, aware of systemic oppression, and am inclusive of diversity.
We all need to feel supported along our journey towards health and healing. Whether that’s finding company with the parts of ourselves that have become discarded and neglected over the years, or support in taking those first courageous steps towards living a life we truly and deeply yearn for and deserve. My practice is trauma-informed, inclusive, and free from judgement. My work is deeply informed by the field of relational neuroscience, grounded in humanistic principles, and harnesses somatic based healing practices. Every part of you is welcome in this space of unconditional acceptance, non-judgement, and compassion.
As a queer-identified counsellor, I am sensitive to intersecting identities, aware of systemic oppression, and am inclusive of diversity.
We all need to feel supported along our journey towards health and healing. Whether that’s finding company with the parts of ourselves that have become discarded and neglected over the years, or support in taking those first courageous steps towards living a life we truly and deeply yearn for and deserve. My practice is trauma-informed, inclusive, and free from judgement. My work is deeply informed by the field of relational neuroscience, grounded in humanistic principles, and harnesses somatic based healing practices. Every part of you is welcome in this space of unconditional acceptance, non-judgement, and compassion.
(249) 802-9272 View (249) 802-9272
Photo of Heidi Mehta, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Heidi Mehta
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
20 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with BIPOC, women, queer and trans folks, and people with disabilities who are conscious about making a difference through their actions and presence in their lives, relationships, families, and communities.
Are you feeling weighed down by the impact of trauma, oppression, or life’s challenges? Healing is possible. As liberation and decolonial oriented trauma therapist I work with individuals to navigate personal and systemic challenges with resilience, self-compassion, and empowerment. My approach combines evidence-based trauma therapies with a deep commitment to social justice, focusing on how larger societal structures affect mental health and well-being. I also provide tools for clients who face systemic discrimination, intergenerational trauma, or a desire for collective wellbeing, grounding our sessions in a sense of hopefulness.
I work with BIPOC, women, queer and trans folks, and people with disabilities who are conscious about making a difference through their actions and presence in their lives, relationships, families, and communities.
Are you feeling weighed down by the impact of trauma, oppression, or life’s challenges? Healing is possible. As liberation and decolonial oriented trauma therapist I work with individuals to navigate personal and systemic challenges with resilience, self-compassion, and empowerment. My approach combines evidence-based trauma therapies with a deep commitment to social justice, focusing on how larger societal structures affect mental health and well-being. I also provide tools for clients who face systemic discrimination, intergenerational trauma, or a desire for collective wellbeing, grounding our sessions in a sense of hopefulness.
(647) 503-0456 View (647) 503-0456
Photo of Mark Shelvock, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CT, MACP, MA
Mark Shelvock
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CT, MACP, MA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I help people facing trauma, identity shifts, LGBTQ+ concerns, loss, depression, anxiety, complex family issues, psychospiritual emergence, and life’s uncertain thresholds.
This is your invitation to embark on the most profound journey: the one within. It isn’t easy, but it’s transformative, real, and deeply alive. True freedom begins when you stop fearing your inner world. You were also never meant to travel this terrain alone. Together, we’ll safely explore the deeper layers of your life to foster psychological strength and emotional courage. By uncovering unconscious blocks that limit your growth and creative potential, we’ll support you in facing difficulties, reclaiming your power, expressing yourself more freely, and developing practical skills to navigate life’s complexity with greater ease.
I help people facing trauma, identity shifts, LGBTQ+ concerns, loss, depression, anxiety, complex family issues, psychospiritual emergence, and life’s uncertain thresholds.
This is your invitation to embark on the most profound journey: the one within. It isn’t easy, but it’s transformative, real, and deeply alive. True freedom begins when you stop fearing your inner world. You were also never meant to travel this terrain alone. Together, we’ll safely explore the deeper layers of your life to foster psychological strength and emotional courage. By uncovering unconscious blocks that limit your growth and creative potential, we’ll support you in facing difficulties, reclaiming your power, expressing yourself more freely, and developing practical skills to navigate life’s complexity with greater ease.
(226) 909-2579 View (226) 909-2579

See more therapy options for Vancouver

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.