LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in West Vancouver, BC

Photo of Jody Radtke, Counsellor, MA, LPC, LMHC, RCC
Jody Radtke
Counsellor, MA, LPC, LMHC, RCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
“Tell me, what is it you plan to do. With your one wild and precious life?" -Mary Oliver- Let's get to the heart of what matters; Unlock access to your full expression; Live life more fully aligned with who you are and what you want. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, relationship or career challenges or the ability to express and receive love, you have within you all that you need. I will partner with you to design a path custom matched to you and your unique needs and help bring insight, courage and wisdom to support you in shining a light into the shadows to bring forth your brilliance.
“Tell me, what is it you plan to do. With your one wild and precious life?" -Mary Oliver- Let's get to the heart of what matters; Unlock access to your full expression; Live life more fully aligned with who you are and what you want. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, relationship or career challenges or the ability to express and receive love, you have within you all that you need. I will partner with you to design a path custom matched to you and your unique needs and help bring insight, courage and wisdom to support you in shining a light into the shadows to bring forth your brilliance.
(807) 790-2583 View (807) 790-2583
Photo of Helen Whitehead - Helen Whitehead Counselling, Counsellor, MC, RCC
Helen Whitehead Counselling
Counsellor, MC, RCC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello and welcome :) I specialize in working with folks who have experienced trauma, grief, and/or challenging family dynamics. Perhaps you've been noticing that the past is showing up in your present day romantic relationships/friendships or perhaps family relationships are still causing pain for you. I am an experienced Registered Clinical Counsellor accepting clients for online video therapy and telephone counselling throughout BC and limited in-person sessions in North Vancouver and West Kelowna.
Hello and welcome :) I specialize in working with folks who have experienced trauma, grief, and/or challenging family dynamics. Perhaps you've been noticing that the past is showing up in your present day romantic relationships/friendships or perhaps family relationships are still causing pain for you. I am an experienced Registered Clinical Counsellor accepting clients for online video therapy and telephone counselling throughout BC and limited in-person sessions in North Vancouver and West Kelowna.
(778) 766-4872 View (778) 766-4872
Photo of Mark M Antczak, Counsellor, RCC
Mark M Antczak
Counsellor, RCC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you feel like your thoughts have taken control of your life and you're left feeling overwhelmed without any breaks? My goal as your counsellor is to provide evidence based treatment to support you in meeting your goals so you're able to live the life you aspire to. I work with you to create meaningful and lasting change using a warm, collaborative, and client centered approach to ensure that treatment is tailored to your unique needs. I primarily utilize CBT in my counselling style, but will also pull from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention and Mindfulness.
Do you feel like your thoughts have taken control of your life and you're left feeling overwhelmed without any breaks? My goal as your counsellor is to provide evidence based treatment to support you in meeting your goals so you're able to live the life you aspire to. I work with you to create meaningful and lasting change using a warm, collaborative, and client centered approach to ensure that treatment is tailored to your unique needs. I primarily utilize CBT in my counselling style, but will also pull from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention and Mindfulness.
(672) 761-0125 View (672) 761-0125
Photo of Stephen 'skip' Olshefsky, Counsellor, MSc, RCC
Stephen 'skip' Olshefsky
Counsellor, MSc, RCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
LGBTQ+ affirming.
I help adults and couples navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, balance, and connection. My focus is on supporting people through anxiety, stress, relationship patterns, communication struggles, identity concerns, and major life transitions. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I offer a grounded, compassionate, and a collaborative approach.
LGBTQ+ affirming.
I help adults and couples navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, balance, and connection. My focus is on supporting people through anxiety, stress, relationship patterns, communication struggles, identity concerns, and major life transitions. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I offer a grounded, compassionate, and a collaborative approach.
(639) 307-4134 View (639) 307-4134
Photo of Marcus Narsaiya, Counsellor, BKin, MC, RCC, ATPPP, Trainee
Marcus Narsaiya
Counsellor, BKin, MC, RCC, ATPPP, Trainee
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
My specialty is Trauma therapy; however I serve diverse clients in a number of challenges ranging from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, loss, relational stress, low self-esteem, chronic stress or pain, and wellness concerns. I have a background in Kinesiology and holistic wellness coaching, as well as coaching individuals with cognitive dis/abilities. My clinical style is based in Social Justice Narrative practice; psychoanalysis, and psychodynamics, including neuropsychoanalysis. My Masters was in treatment approaches to transgenerational trauma. My preference is to work weekly or twice weekly for a minimum of 6 months.
My specialty is Trauma therapy; however I serve diverse clients in a number of challenges ranging from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, loss, relational stress, low self-esteem, chronic stress or pain, and wellness concerns. I have a background in Kinesiology and holistic wellness coaching, as well as coaching individuals with cognitive dis/abilities. My clinical style is based in Social Justice Narrative practice; psychoanalysis, and psychodynamics, including neuropsychoanalysis. My Masters was in treatment approaches to transgenerational trauma. My preference is to work weekly or twice weekly for a minimum of 6 months.
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Photo of Theo (Teddy) Chu, Registered Psychotherapist, RCC, CMPC®
Theo (Teddy) Chu
Registered Psychotherapist, RCC, CMPC®
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with the Asian population, athletes, high-performing professionals, 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, high-performing professionals, 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 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.
You don’t have to carry this all on your own. This space offers refuge and belonging for the parts of you that feel ashamed, unlovable, or somehow broken. If you often feel on edge, overwhelmed, or shut down, longing for connection but unsure how to feel safe, or struggling to feel grounded in your body - please know that you’re not alone, and that every part of you is welcome here.
As a queer-identified counsellor, I am sensitive to intersecting identities, aware of systemic oppression, and am inclusive of diversity.
You don’t have to carry this all on your own. This space offers refuge and belonging for the parts of you that feel ashamed, unlovable, or somehow broken. If you often feel on edge, overwhelmed, or shut down, longing for connection but unsure how to feel safe, or struggling to feel grounded in your body - please know that you’re not alone, and that every part of you is welcome here.
(249) 802-9272 View (249) 802-9272
Photo of Imogen McIntyre, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Imogen McIntyre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
3 Endorsed
I specialize in counselling for the LGBTQ+ community, neurodivergent people, and those with BPD - often self-identified oddballs, weirdos, and outsiders with big feelings.
BPDers and neurodivergent people often struggle with messages saying that they don't fit within their environments, that they are a burden, or that their emotions are too frequent and too intense. I work from the perspective that neurodivergent people process information and emotions differently, and I adapt my approach to therapy to meet those needs.
I specialize in counselling for the LGBTQ+ community, neurodivergent people, and those with BPD - often self-identified oddballs, weirdos, and outsiders with big feelings.
BPDers and neurodivergent people often struggle with messages saying that they don't fit within their environments, that they are a burden, or that their emotions are too frequent and too intense. I work from the perspective that neurodivergent people process information and emotions differently, and I adapt my approach to therapy to meet those needs.
(647) 951-0928 View (647) 951-0928
Photo of Clayre Sessoms, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RCAT, CCC, ATR-BC
Clayre Sessoms
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RCAT, CCC, ATR-BC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m Clayre, an affirming trauma therapist who is trans, nonbinary, neurodivergent, and queer.
My work is relational, experiential, and creative. I draw from Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Trauma Informed Stabilization Treatment, integrating body awareness, parts work, and collaborative dialogue. We pay attention to what’s happening in real time, slowing things down so you can notice patterns, build capacity, and respond differently over time.
I’m Clayre, an affirming trauma therapist who is trans, nonbinary, neurodivergent, and queer.
My work is relational, experiential, and creative. I draw from Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Trauma Informed Stabilization Treatment, integrating body awareness, parts work, and collaborative dialogue. We pay attention to what’s happening in real time, slowing things down so you can notice patterns, build capacity, and respond differently over time.
(604) 332-1826 View (604) 332-1826
Photo of Mica Avery, Counsellor, MTC
Mica Avery
Counsellor, MTC
Online Only
Whether you're dealing with past trauma, difficult family dynamics, or are stuck in frustrating patterns, feelings of disconnection and anxiety can easily become your day-to-day. In a world that can be challenging to navigate at the best of times, the struggles we face can sometimes feel insurmountable. It is my belief that we all need support and connection in order to process our experiences and to feel safe and secure in our own skin. With the tools somatic therapy brings we can support the body to complete it’s natural healing processes, helping us find the freedom to live our lives to the fullest.
Whether you're dealing with past trauma, difficult family dynamics, or are stuck in frustrating patterns, feelings of disconnection and anxiety can easily become your day-to-day. In a world that can be challenging to navigate at the best of times, the struggles we face can sometimes feel insurmountable. It is my belief that we all need support and connection in order to process our experiences and to feel safe and secure in our own skin. With the tools somatic therapy brings we can support the body to complete it’s natural healing processes, helping us find the freedom to live our lives to the fullest.
(672) 202-5936 View (672) 202-5936
Photo of Ganna Kutsyna, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Ganna Kutsyna
Counsellor, MA, RCC
3 Endorsed
I work with individuals who are seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and their emotional world, as well as support during times of stress, transition, or emotional difficulty. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in repeating relational patterns. People often reach out when they are navigating anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, perinatal experiences, relationship challenges, identity shifts, or the impact of migration and major life changes. Others come because they want to better understand themselves and create more meaningful and authentic relationships.
I work with individuals who are seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and their emotional world, as well as support during times of stress, transition, or emotional difficulty. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in repeating relational patterns. People often reach out when they are navigating anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, perinatal experiences, relationship challenges, identity shifts, or the impact of migration and major life changes. Others come because they want to better understand themselves and create more meaningful and authentic relationships.
(236) 242-8731 View (236) 242-8731
Photo of Mary Coleman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Mary Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
In the midst of life challenges, we hold an inner wisdom when we listen deeply to ourselves and each other in the presence of engaged support. This compassionate inquiry and attention inspires growth and connection to navigate uncertainty, grief and loss, and distress in relationships. My approach integrates mindfulness based, somatic and self compassion skills to understand our thoughts, feelings, and core values as sources of guidance towards what is most life affirming; attachment and interpersonal neurobiology theory to strengthen emotional regulation. For couples, this creates space to strengthen nourshing relationships.
In the midst of life challenges, we hold an inner wisdom when we listen deeply to ourselves and each other in the presence of engaged support. This compassionate inquiry and attention inspires growth and connection to navigate uncertainty, grief and loss, and distress in relationships. My approach integrates mindfulness based, somatic and self compassion skills to understand our thoughts, feelings, and core values as sources of guidance towards what is most life affirming; attachment and interpersonal neurobiology theory to strengthen emotional regulation. For couples, this creates space to strengthen nourshing relationships.
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Photo of Negar Parsa, Counsellor, RTC, MA
Negar Parsa
Counsellor, RTC, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I know there are times when it feels as if you are sitting in a dark space, waiting for a glimpse of joy. You may be seeking it in your job, income, relationships, or a variety of other external sources; and yet, it seems unreachable. Growing up with several traumas and experiencing severe depression led me to seek my identity in a high profile title in society. As a lawyer with a Master’s degree, I was not happy. Then I faced the tragic loss of my beloved friend. This pain, shook my belief system: How could I live, despite life's difficulties? Life showed me that painful experiences will always open doors to new paths.
I know there are times when it feels as if you are sitting in a dark space, waiting for a glimpse of joy. You may be seeking it in your job, income, relationships, or a variety of other external sources; and yet, it seems unreachable. Growing up with several traumas and experiencing severe depression led me to seek my identity in a high profile title in society. As a lawyer with a Master’s degree, I was not happy. Then I faced the tragic loss of my beloved friend. This pain, shook my belief system: How could I live, despite life's difficulties? Life showed me that painful experiences will always open doors to new paths.
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Photo of Dr. Joanna Lynch-Lawrenson, Psychologist, RPsych, D Psy, MSc, BSc, AFBPs
Dr. Joanna Lynch-Lawrenson
Psychologist, RPsych, D Psy, MSc, BSc, AFBPs
Online Only
I offer support to teens, adults and parents who maybe struggling with issues. Whatever the problem it helps to talk and express oneself. Most people feel the benefit of sharing their concerns and learning to gain strength and trying out new coping strategies or finding other supportive measures to assist personal growth. Therapy can be a positive workout for the mind - just like the gym is for our bodies. I look forward to meeting you.
I offer support to teens, adults and parents who maybe struggling with issues. Whatever the problem it helps to talk and express oneself. Most people feel the benefit of sharing their concerns and learning to gain strength and trying out new coping strategies or finding other supportive measures to assist personal growth. Therapy can be a positive workout for the mind - just like the gym is for our bodies. I look forward to meeting you.
(604) 305-2945 View (604) 305-2945
Photo of Dr. Akbar Bayanzadeh - Dr. Bayanzadeh Counselling Services, Counsellor, PhD, RCC, RSW, CCC
Dr. Bayanzadeh Counselling Services
Counsellor, PhD, RCC, RSW, CCC
Online Only
I have had the privilege of knowing and working with a great number of individuals and families with varying levels of life challenges including: relationships issues, all types of emotional disturbances and alcohol & substance use problems. I trust that my accumulated repertoire of psychological methods and techniques along with my sincere desire to help will ensure effective and satisfactory services for my clients.
I have had the privilege of knowing and working with a great number of individuals and families with varying levels of life challenges including: relationships issues, all types of emotional disturbances and alcohol & substance use problems. I trust that my accumulated repertoire of psychological methods and techniques along with my sincere desire to help will ensure effective and satisfactory services for my clients.
(587) 801-5148 View (587) 801-5148
Photo of Sarah White, Counsellor, MC, RCC
Sarah White
Counsellor, MC, RCC
My goal is to provide compassionate and knowledgeable support; working with youth and adults supporting the navigation of complex life changes and emotional challenges. Drawing on my experience within school-based counselling, individual therapy, and family support, I aim to address concerns such as identity development, emotional regulation, academic and career stress, and relationship dynamics. I am committed to empowering all of my clients, fostering self-awareness, resilience, and confidence as each moves through different transitions in life.
My goal is to provide compassionate and knowledgeable support; working with youth and adults supporting the navigation of complex life changes and emotional challenges. Drawing on my experience within school-based counselling, individual therapy, and family support, I aim to address concerns such as identity development, emotional regulation, academic and career stress, and relationship dynamics. I am committed to empowering all of my clients, fostering self-awareness, resilience, and confidence as each moves through different transitions in life.
(873) 700-4171 View (873) 700-4171
Photo of Amy Thorne-Broderick, Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Amy Thorne-Broderick
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
5 Endorsed
Hello:) My name is Amy and have been supporting parents, children and teens for over two decades. Utilizing play therapy and expressive arts, I work closely with people of all ages to offer a safe and accepting place for them to process trauma, worry and stress. With years of experience in the education system, I can help you navigate as a child, teen or parent. have a special interest and training in autism, ADHD and learning differences. No matter the age of the client, I provide a person first, strengths based environment where we can find peace and solutions together.
Hello:) My name is Amy and have been supporting parents, children and teens for over two decades. Utilizing play therapy and expressive arts, I work closely with people of all ages to offer a safe and accepting place for them to process trauma, worry and stress. With years of experience in the education system, I can help you navigate as a child, teen or parent. have a special interest and training in autism, ADHD and learning differences. No matter the age of the client, I provide a person first, strengths based environment where we can find peace and solutions together.
(343) 308-2182 View (343) 308-2182
Photo of Pegah Behbehani - Pegah Counselling, Counsellor, RCC, MCP, Ind Eng, Com Eng
Pegah Counselling
Counsellor, RCC, MCP, Ind Eng, Com Eng
Pegah believes in the unlimited potential and the power that we all share as a human being. I believe the major reason that individuals would encounter barriers and gridlocks in the process of accessing their potentials and internal resources is the primary context as well as their current one. Therefore, I provide my clients with my full presence and genuine support during their journey of self-discovery and actualization of their unique gift and potential that embedded in each of us since our birth.
Pegah believes in the unlimited potential and the power that we all share as a human being. I believe the major reason that individuals would encounter barriers and gridlocks in the process of accessing their potentials and internal resources is the primary context as well as their current one. Therefore, I provide my clients with my full presence and genuine support during their journey of self-discovery and actualization of their unique gift and potential that embedded in each of us since our birth.
(289) 302-5979 View (289) 302-5979
Photo of Jonathan Boudin, Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Jonathan Boudin
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Welcome! I specialize in supporting tweens, teens, and young adults of all genders. I am happy to work with adults too. To me, counseling begins with safety, empathy, and trust. Sometimes people need a non-judgmental ear, sometimes they need more specific approaches like EMDR, DBT, CBT, or coping skills. Either way, therapy is collaborative and customized to meet your unique needs, hopes, and goals. Challenges I specialize in include ADHD, FASD, trauma, anxiety, depression, child and teen-related issues, school and academic issues, communication, and the general complications that life can throw at us! I look forward to meeting.
Welcome! I specialize in supporting tweens, teens, and young adults of all genders. I am happy to work with adults too. To me, counseling begins with safety, empathy, and trust. Sometimes people need a non-judgmental ear, sometimes they need more specific approaches like EMDR, DBT, CBT, or coping skills. Either way, therapy is collaborative and customized to meet your unique needs, hopes, and goals. Challenges I specialize in include ADHD, FASD, trauma, anxiety, depression, child and teen-related issues, school and academic issues, communication, and the general complications that life can throw at us! I look forward to meeting.
(902) 510-6739 View (902) 510-6739
Photo of Kathy Merabian, Counsellor, MA, RCC, CPF
Kathy Merabian
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CPF
Choosing the right counsellor for yourself or your child is not easy, yet a trusting and comfortable relationship with your counsellor is fundamental to success. I make it my priority to establish an open, honest and warm relationship with my clients. Next, I use effective and concrete interventions to address the specific goals my clients present to me. Together we come up with a plan which we follow for the duration of our work together. If you are motivated and want to make concrete changes in your life, I may be the right fit for you.
Choosing the right counsellor for yourself or your child is not easy, yet a trusting and comfortable relationship with your counsellor is fundamental to success. I make it my priority to establish an open, honest and warm relationship with my clients. Next, I use effective and concrete interventions to address the specific goals my clients present to me. Together we come up with a plan which we follow for the duration of our work together. If you are motivated and want to make concrete changes in your life, I may be the right fit for you.
(604) 265-9289 View (604) 265-9289

See more therapy options for West 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.