LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in St Albert, AB
Jessica Henschel
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
Hi! I'm glad you're here. Speaking from experience, I know asking for help and prioritizing your mental health is hard. Facing the difficult aspects of your life is scary and it's more comfortable to stay in the same patterns that have helped you survive. If you find those patterns aren’t working for you anymore, it could be worth it to take that leap and reach out- and I'd love to take that step with you! I work with LGBTQIA+ community members and individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma, and relationship issues. I am also trained to assess/diagnose and treat ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Hi! I'm glad you're here. Speaking from experience, I know asking for help and prioritizing your mental health is hard. Facing the difficult aspects of your life is scary and it's more comfortable to stay in the same patterns that have helped you survive. If you find those patterns aren’t working for you anymore, it could be worth it to take that leap and reach out- and I'd love to take that step with you! I work with LGBTQIA+ community members and individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, trauma, and relationship issues. I am also trained to assess/diagnose and treat ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
My heart especially goes out to those who find themselves at the intersection of queerness and faith, and those who have suffered spiritual, emotional or sexual abuse and trauma.
My name is Naomi Isaac (she/her), and I am a queer therapist who specializes in working with individuals who may be struggling to integrate queer and spiritual identities. Queer people from religious faith backgrounds (and their families) are often marginalized by both the queer community and their faith community, and may feel alone in the struggle they may have to understand their queerness in the context of their faith or religious upbringing. Having a therapist who is familiar with both worlds, who will respect all aspects of their identity, is crucial in working through these unique challenges in counselling.
My heart especially goes out to those who find themselves at the intersection of queerness and faith, and those who have suffered spiritual, emotional or sexual abuse and trauma.
My name is Naomi Isaac (she/her), and I am a queer therapist who specializes in working with individuals who may be struggling to integrate queer and spiritual identities. Queer people from religious faith backgrounds (and their families) are often marginalized by both the queer community and their faith community, and may feel alone in the struggle they may have to understand their queerness in the context of their faith or religious upbringing. Having a therapist who is familiar with both worlds, who will respect all aspects of their identity, is crucial in working through these unique challenges in counselling.
Hi my name is Kris and I am non-binary with two gender presentations. I am a Mental Health Therapist working at finishing the final year of my degree from City University of Seattle. I believe that everyone is unique and because of this, the path towards healing requires a flexible approach. I specialize in working with the 2S LGBTQ+ community including queer and gender identity concerns. I also help with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, self-worth, trauma, interpersonal relationships, and discrimination. I am available to see individual clients 13 years or older, couples, and families.
Hi my name is Kris and I am non-binary with two gender presentations. I am a Mental Health Therapist working at finishing the final year of my degree from City University of Seattle. I believe that everyone is unique and because of this, the path towards healing requires a flexible approach. I specialize in working with the 2S LGBTQ+ community including queer and gender identity concerns. I also help with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, self-worth, trauma, interpersonal relationships, and discrimination. I am available to see individual clients 13 years or older, couples, and families.
My practice encompasses working with youth, adults, couples and families, and a wide range of clients, including uniformed personnel, First Nations (on reserve), culturally diverse, LGBTQ individuals, clients in care, the inner city population, as well as with young offenders in Brazil. The main issues that have been presented in my practice are complex trauma, addictions, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, and maladaptive behaviours.
My practice encompasses working with youth, adults, couples and families, and a wide range of clients, including uniformed personnel, First Nations (on reserve), culturally diverse, LGBTQ individuals, clients in care, the inner city population, as well as with young offenders in Brazil. The main issues that have been presented in my practice are complex trauma, addictions, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, and maladaptive behaviours.
I often use my lived experience as a queer, non-binary, and neurodivergent practitioner to connect with and understand clients.
I have experience working with children (ages 10+), teens, and adults facing challenges related to grief & loss, gender & sexual identity, chronic illnesses, disordered eating (including ARFID), school, phobias, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, and trauma. I have a special interest in working with those who have experienced (or who will experience) the death of someone they love, and I also particularly enjoy working with queer, trans+, and gender-creative young people.
I often use my lived experience as a queer, non-binary, and neurodivergent practitioner to connect with and understand clients.
I have experience working with children (ages 10+), teens, and adults facing challenges related to grief & loss, gender & sexual identity, chronic illnesses, disordered eating (including ARFID), school, phobias, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, and trauma. I have a special interest in working with those who have experienced (or who will experience) the death of someone they love, and I also particularly enjoy working with queer, trans+, and gender-creative young people.
Joel Christopher Geleynse
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
I have many LGBTQ2 cases which is an area of particular experience both professionally and personally.
I provide a fully open and non-judgemental space where together we explore your life, behaviour, emotions, relationships and how to reduce your unwanted feelings or experiences. I offer an eclectic toolkit of approaches and unpretentious energy so you can connect with your truest thoughts and feelings. You can also request animal therapy sessions with a dog, cats, horses, goats, mini pig or mini horses. If you are needing to unpack, process, find clarity, debrief, or gain insight on any aspect of your life, I'm ready when you are. The hardest step is booking your first session, you'll be glad you did.
I have many LGBTQ2 cases which is an area of particular experience both professionally and personally.
I provide a fully open and non-judgemental space where together we explore your life, behaviour, emotions, relationships and how to reduce your unwanted feelings or experiences. I offer an eclectic toolkit of approaches and unpretentious energy so you can connect with your truest thoughts and feelings. You can also request animal therapy sessions with a dog, cats, horses, goats, mini pig or mini horses. If you are needing to unpack, process, find clarity, debrief, or gain insight on any aspect of your life, I'm ready when you are. The hardest step is booking your first session, you'll be glad you did.
Starting therapy with someone new can be tough. Finding the right therapist for you can be even tougher. I've worked with clients who have bounced around a lot, who are looking for someone who makes them feel heard, seen, and understood. If you want a safer, inclusive, non-judgmental person to offer some support with your challenges and goals, I'd love to meet you.
Starting therapy with someone new can be tough. Finding the right therapist for you can be even tougher. I've worked with clients who have bounced around a lot, who are looking for someone who makes them feel heard, seen, and understood. If you want a safer, inclusive, non-judgmental person to offer some support with your challenges and goals, I'd love to meet you.
I am enthusiastic about journeying with you to discern what the transition/ transformation will mean in your life and how you might go about it.
When we make the choice to do therapeutic work, it is a significant step in creating change in our lives. It offers the opportunity to heal and become more fully the person we choose to be. The therapeutic process encourages us to be present, compassionate, and open to new experiences. The hope of clarity, possibility of creating positive changes, making decisions, and feeling more hopeful about life. I am a gentle, supportive, heartfelt, and engaged therapist. I work from a stance of compassion with the understanding that through compassion for self and others we have the capacity to create change in our life.
I am enthusiastic about journeying with you to discern what the transition/ transformation will mean in your life and how you might go about it.
When we make the choice to do therapeutic work, it is a significant step in creating change in our lives. It offers the opportunity to heal and become more fully the person we choose to be. The therapeutic process encourages us to be present, compassionate, and open to new experiences. The hope of clarity, possibility of creating positive changes, making decisions, and feeling more hopeful about life. I am a gentle, supportive, heartfelt, and engaged therapist. I work from a stance of compassion with the understanding that through compassion for self and others we have the capacity to create change in our life.
I offer individual adult therapy. On a case-by-case basis, I work with some mature minors. My practice is primarily focused on the treatment of chronic and often, treatment-resistant depression/anxiety, or unclear mood disturbances. At times, this involves healing from a past trauma, attachment "injury", adverse event from childhood, or identity-related challenge. These are the types of issues that I frequently see in my practice.
I offer individual adult therapy. On a case-by-case basis, I work with some mature minors. My practice is primarily focused on the treatment of chronic and often, treatment-resistant depression/anxiety, or unclear mood disturbances. At times, this involves healing from a past trauma, attachment "injury", adverse event from childhood, or identity-related challenge. These are the types of issues that I frequently see in my practice.
I specialize in providing comprehensive support to veterans, paramedics, corrections officers, police officers, and firefighters. I am passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges that disrupt their daily lives, such as compounding trauma, moral injury, addiction, and other workplace or personal events. Additionally, I have experience in addressing a wide range of issues, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma & PTSD, addiction, and eating disorders.
I specialize in providing comprehensive support to veterans, paramedics, corrections officers, police officers, and firefighters. I am passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges that disrupt their daily lives, such as compounding trauma, moral injury, addiction, and other workplace or personal events. Additionally, I have experience in addressing a wide range of issues, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma & PTSD, addiction, and eating disorders.
I am committed to providing you with the highest quality of professional services to help you attain the changes you want to make in your life. I have had the privilege of working with and supporting youth, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I work collaboratively with clients to gain insight into thoughts, beliefs, and emotions that are no longer serving them to help them overcome struggles and identify their strengths while utilizing those strengths with individualized strategies and tools to help them reach their goals.
I am committed to providing you with the highest quality of professional services to help you attain the changes you want to make in your life. I have had the privilege of working with and supporting youth, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I work collaboratively with clients to gain insight into thoughts, beliefs, and emotions that are no longer serving them to help them overcome struggles and identify their strengths while utilizing those strengths with individualized strategies and tools to help them reach their goals.
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If you are interested in achieving your mental health wellness goals through a holistic approach, we would likely be a good fit. I possess a unique combination of wisdom, ongoing skill development, and life experience for those who may want to explore a variety of techniques to help with improving their quality of life. I can help with your trauma, wounding, pain, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, parenting, and most other life challenges. I generally work with older adolescents and adults
If you are interested in achieving your mental health wellness goals through a holistic approach, we would likely be a good fit. I possess a unique combination of wisdom, ongoing skill development, and life experience for those who may want to explore a variety of techniques to help with improving their quality of life. I can help with your trauma, wounding, pain, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, parenting, and most other life challenges. I generally work with older adolescents and adults
Lumina Counselling Services
Psychiatric Nurse, MA, BSc, RPN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
I help people overcome anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues, and many others. I ensure that my clients have the tools to maintain the gains they have made with me. The services I offer are effective, efficient, collaborative, and affordable. I have an extensive clinical and academic background in psychology, psychiatry, and pharmacology. Moreover, my education in the humanities and my personal varied background helps me serve clients dealing with multicultural, cross-cultural, and family matters. I have been in a private practice since 2009 with 25 years of experience in the field. I also teach at MacEwan University.
I help people overcome anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues, and many others. I ensure that my clients have the tools to maintain the gains they have made with me. The services I offer are effective, efficient, collaborative, and affordable. I have an extensive clinical and academic background in psychology, psychiatry, and pharmacology. Moreover, my education in the humanities and my personal varied background helps me serve clients dealing with multicultural, cross-cultural, and family matters. I have been in a private practice since 2009 with 25 years of experience in the field. I also teach at MacEwan University.
While I enjoy working with individuals, I specialize in helping couples reconnect. I don't take sides, I don't judge, and I don't tell you what to do. In our sessions, we'll collaborate to uncover and change patterns of communication that leave you feeling disconnected. If your relationship has become a source of stress, I can most likely help you and your partner find your way back to a mutually satisfying connection. You will strengthen your intimate bond, and learn how to be there for each other more deeply during the inevitable difficulties all couples experience.
While I enjoy working with individuals, I specialize in helping couples reconnect. I don't take sides, I don't judge, and I don't tell you what to do. In our sessions, we'll collaborate to uncover and change patterns of communication that leave you feeling disconnected. If your relationship has become a source of stress, I can most likely help you and your partner find your way back to a mutually satisfying connection. You will strengthen your intimate bond, and learn how to be there for each other more deeply during the inevitable difficulties all couples experience.
For 14 years, 98% of my caseload has been LGBTQ2S+ I work collaboratively to navigate systems & refer clients to gender psychiatrists/endocrinologists (re: hormonal treatment).
I believe clients have the inherent ability to create change. It takes courage to step forth and request support which leads to strength and a desire to create new ways of being. Through a meaningful and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe and inclusive space for clients to grow and reach their desired potential and authentic self. I provide support to individuals/families that are experiencing challenges within their lives (i.e., gender diverse clients, dysphoria, sexual orientation, anxiety, depression, internalized homophobia/ transphobia, coming to terms/coming out, trauma, self-harming, suicidal ideation).
For 14 years, 98% of my caseload has been LGBTQ2S+ I work collaboratively to navigate systems & refer clients to gender psychiatrists/endocrinologists (re: hormonal treatment).
I believe clients have the inherent ability to create change. It takes courage to step forth and request support which leads to strength and a desire to create new ways of being. Through a meaningful and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe and inclusive space for clients to grow and reach their desired potential and authentic self. I provide support to individuals/families that are experiencing challenges within their lives (i.e., gender diverse clients, dysphoria, sexual orientation, anxiety, depression, internalized homophobia/ transphobia, coming to terms/coming out, trauma, self-harming, suicidal ideation).
I work with children, youth and immigrant women. My goal is to support your child, alongside yourself as the parent or caregiver, through a holistic and whole-person approach to meet the unique needs of the individual or family system. I specialize in working with children aged 3-17 experiencing a range of social, emotional, and behavioural concerns such as anxiety, autism, attachment issues, self-esteem, ADHD, oppositional defiance, depression, OCD, peer relationships, among others. I provide therapy often using a play based modality. I also do full psychological assessments including assessments for ADHD, Behviour and Autism.
I work with children, youth and immigrant women. My goal is to support your child, alongside yourself as the parent or caregiver, through a holistic and whole-person approach to meet the unique needs of the individual or family system. I specialize in working with children aged 3-17 experiencing a range of social, emotional, and behavioural concerns such as anxiety, autism, attachment issues, self-esteem, ADHD, oppositional defiance, depression, OCD, peer relationships, among others. I provide therapy often using a play based modality. I also do full psychological assessments including assessments for ADHD, Behviour and Autism.
I enjoy working with people to help them identify and live according to their values and beliefs, to make room for deeper self-confidence and self-compassion, and to partner with them in the transformative process of becoming the most authentic version of themselves.
Each of us is on a sacred journey of becoming – to know and understand ourselves and the stories we find ourselves in. There are seasons in every person's life when we are no longer able to make sense of our stories. We can lose touch with or feel stuck in our stories when we are wounded by painful experiences or past trauma, struggling with relationships, weighed down by grief and loss, or weary with lost purpose and meaning in our lives. What do you do when you find yourself "a stranger in your own story"?
I enjoy working with people to help them identify and live according to their values and beliefs, to make room for deeper self-confidence and self-compassion, and to partner with them in the transformative process of becoming the most authentic version of themselves.
Each of us is on a sacred journey of becoming – to know and understand ourselves and the stories we find ourselves in. There are seasons in every person's life when we are no longer able to make sense of our stories. We can lose touch with or feel stuck in our stories when we are wounded by painful experiences or past trauma, struggling with relationships, weighed down by grief and loss, or weary with lost purpose and meaning in our lives. What do you do when you find yourself "a stranger in your own story"?
At times anxiety, depression and/or trauma may impede an individual's natural ability to cope. I believe when a safe and supportive environment is created, individuals may openly explore their struggles and find healthier ways of coping. I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families regarding development, disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders, and brain injury/stroke. For the past 10 years, I have specialized in supporting sexual and gender diverse children, youth, and families.
At times anxiety, depression and/or trauma may impede an individual's natural ability to cope. I believe when a safe and supportive environment is created, individuals may openly explore their struggles and find healthier ways of coping. I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families regarding development, disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders, and brain injury/stroke. For the past 10 years, I have specialized in supporting sexual and gender diverse children, youth, and families.
I have specialized training in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure for trauma and PTSD and extensive training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for depression, anxiety, and a number of other concerns (relationship/interpersonal, occupational stress, life transitions, grief, etc), in addition to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and ART.
Life can be difficult. Trying to address these difficulties ourselves may feel overwhelming. I support the individuals I meet by working collaboratively with them in a non-judgmental, supportive environment where goals can be established, and movement towards positive change can occur regardless of where one might be in the change process. I believe in highlighting strengths, and empowering clients to achieve therapy goals. I respect how each person's needs within therapy are unique, so a primary focus of mine is the development of a meaningful therapeutic relationship so I can clearly understand and support those unique needs.
I have specialized training in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure for trauma and PTSD and extensive training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for depression, anxiety, and a number of other concerns (relationship/interpersonal, occupational stress, life transitions, grief, etc), in addition to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and ART.
Life can be difficult. Trying to address these difficulties ourselves may feel overwhelming. I support the individuals I meet by working collaboratively with them in a non-judgmental, supportive environment where goals can be established, and movement towards positive change can occur regardless of where one might be in the change process. I believe in highlighting strengths, and empowering clients to achieve therapy goals. I respect how each person's needs within therapy are unique, so a primary focus of mine is the development of a meaningful therapeutic relationship so I can clearly understand and support those unique needs.
Quite often, we manage our biggest challenges with strength and confidence. And yet, there are times when we need an outside perspective that provides clarity, hope, and courage. Each individual has unique strengths and qualities, and my job is to help you connect with the inner strength that makes you resilient and prompts fruitful actions. I have thirteen years of experience helping individuals with depression, anxiety, stress, mood disorders, marital conflicts, workplace conflicts, and other issues. I have two Master's degrees, one in Social Work and the other in Special Education/Education Psychology.
Quite often, we manage our biggest challenges with strength and confidence. And yet, there are times when we need an outside perspective that provides clarity, hope, and courage. Each individual has unique strengths and qualities, and my job is to help you connect with the inner strength that makes you resilient and prompts fruitful actions. I have thirteen years of experience helping individuals with depression, anxiety, stress, mood disorders, marital conflicts, workplace conflicts, and other issues. I have two Master's degrees, one in Social Work and the other in Special Education/Education Psychology.
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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.