Photo of Sarah Chikoski, Registered Social Worker in M4P, ON
Sarah Chikoski
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P
I'm Sarah (She/They), an Ontario registered Social Worker, and I'm here to walk alongside you on your path to healing and growth. I am a Queer, gender fluid individual, with my own lived experiences. Having walked my own path, I truly understand the worth of lived experience in therapeutic work. The special insights and lessons we gather from our personal journeys provide wonderful chances for self-reflection and personal growth. Embracing the idea that lived experience is a valid way of gaining understanding is at the heart of how I approach offering caring and therapeutic support.
I'm Sarah (She/They), an Ontario registered Social Worker, and I'm here to walk alongside you on your path to healing and growth. I am a Queer, gender fluid individual, with my own lived experiences. Having walked my own path, I truly understand the worth of lived experience in therapeutic work. The special insights and lessons we gather from our personal journeys provide wonderful chances for self-reflection and personal growth. Embracing the idea that lived experience is a valid way of gaining understanding is at the heart of how I approach offering caring and therapeutic support.
(437) 747-8219 View (437) 747-8219
Photo of Victor Costa, Registered Social Worker in M4P, ON
Victor Costa
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P  (Online Only)
Specifically, I have much experience assisting the elderly, the LGBTQ+ community, and those experiencing mental health issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
I was lucky to find my passion for social work early in life, coming from a family of social workers who specialized in marginalized youth. I decided early on that I too wanted to pursue a career that made a positive impact on the world and helped people to overcome their struggles and create a meaningful and empowered future. Overcoming my own personal struggles solidified my desire and passion for social work. I consider it a privilege to work with others coping with similar difficulties in their lives, and guiding them in their journey of overcoming their own struggles.
Specifically, I have much experience assisting the elderly, the LGBTQ+ community, and those experiencing mental health issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
I was lucky to find my passion for social work early in life, coming from a family of social workers who specialized in marginalized youth. I decided early on that I too wanted to pursue a career that made a positive impact on the world and helped people to overcome their struggles and create a meaningful and empowered future. Overcoming my own personal struggles solidified my desire and passion for social work. I consider it a privilege to work with others coping with similar difficulties in their lives, and guiding them in their journey of overcoming their own struggles.
(647) 370-9673 View (647) 370-9673
Photo of Candor Psychology & Psychotherapy, Psychologist in M4P, ON
Candor Psychology & Psychotherapy
Psychologist, MEd, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P
We appreciate that each journey is unique and we practice inclusive, anti-oppressive, sex-positive, LGBTQ-positive/queer-positive, trauma-informed, harm-reduction values in our work so you can candidly share your experience.
Accepting New Clients for both in-person and virtual services! We are a team of Psychologists, Registered Psychotherapists and Social Workers with specific training in a variety of evidence-based counselling and therapy approaches. Our services include individual psychotherapy, couples therapy and sex therapy. We work with a wide range of presenting concerns including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, low self-esteem, assertiveness, panic attacks, stress, self-criticism, health anxiety, family-of-origin concerns, histories of trauma, relationship difficulties and sexual difficulties.
We appreciate that each journey is unique and we practice inclusive, anti-oppressive, sex-positive, LGBTQ-positive/queer-positive, trauma-informed, harm-reduction values in our work so you can candidly share your experience.
Accepting New Clients for both in-person and virtual services! We are a team of Psychologists, Registered Psychotherapists and Social Workers with specific training in a variety of evidence-based counselling and therapy approaches. Our services include individual psychotherapy, couples therapy and sex therapy. We work with a wide range of presenting concerns including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, low self-esteem, assertiveness, panic attacks, stress, self-criticism, health anxiety, family-of-origin concerns, histories of trauma, relationship difficulties and sexual difficulties.
(437) 747-4774 View (437) 747-4774
Photo of Sam Srijani, Registered Psychotherapist in M4P, ON
Sam Srijani
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
I use a culturally-sensitive LGBTQ+ affirming approach to ensure that we work in a way that honours your experience, beliefs and identity.
Accepting New Clients! Are you dealing with anxiety, low self esteem, work-related stress, or people pleasing? Do you find yourself going through the motions, struggling to keep up with the demands of your busy life? Are you finding it harder to enjoy your day and just be present with your loved ones? If you’re feeling this way you may even be experiencing guilt and shame about these difficult emotions. Maybe you're craving a space where you can just shed your responsibilities and the expectations of others – your friends, your family, society – and just be yourself. I hear you, and I applaud you for taking this courageous step.
I use a culturally-sensitive LGBTQ+ affirming approach to ensure that we work in a way that honours your experience, beliefs and identity.
Accepting New Clients! Are you dealing with anxiety, low self esteem, work-related stress, or people pleasing? Do you find yourself going through the motions, struggling to keep up with the demands of your busy life? Are you finding it harder to enjoy your day and just be present with your loved ones? If you’re feeling this way you may even be experiencing guilt and shame about these difficult emotions. Maybe you're craving a space where you can just shed your responsibilities and the expectations of others – your friends, your family, society – and just be yourself. I hear you, and I applaud you for taking this courageous step.
(437) 747-1925 View (437) 747-1925
Photo of Donna M Reist, Psychologist in M4P, ON
Donna M Reist
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P  (Online Only)
She welcomes racial, cultural and religious diversity and provides a LGBTQIA+ positive space.
Welcome! I am a registered clinical & counselling psychologist licensed to practice in the province of Ontario. I am a graduate of the University of Toronto where I received my Masters degree and Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology. My training has also included both of Toronto’s psychoanalytic training institutes, and I have certificates in addiction studies, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and sensory motor psychotherapy. As a registered member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario, I enjoy providing respectful, kind and inclusive psychological services to older adolescents, adults, couples, and organizations.
She welcomes racial, cultural and religious diversity and provides a LGBTQIA+ positive space.
Welcome! I am a registered clinical & counselling psychologist licensed to practice in the province of Ontario. I am a graduate of the University of Toronto where I received my Masters degree and Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology. My training has also included both of Toronto’s psychoanalytic training institutes, and I have certificates in addiction studies, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and sensory motor psychotherapy. As a registered member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario, I enjoy providing respectful, kind and inclusive psychological services to older adolescents, adults, couples, and organizations.
(437) 747-6683 View (437) 747-6683
Photo of Carol Anne Austin, Psychologist in M4P, ON
Carol Anne Austin
Psychologist, MEd, CPsych
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
I use an inclusive, anti-oppressive, sex-positive, LGBTQ-positive/queer-positive, trauma-informed, harm-reduction set of values in my work.
I am a registered Clinical and Counselling Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO) and the owner and founder of Candor Psychology & Psychotherapy. Myself and my associates see clients for a wide variety of concerns such as, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stress, assertiveness, low motivation, family-of-origin concerns, histories of trauma, relationship difficulties and sexual difficulties.
I use an inclusive, anti-oppressive, sex-positive, LGBTQ-positive/queer-positive, trauma-informed, harm-reduction set of values in my work.
I am a registered Clinical and Counselling Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO) and the owner and founder of Candor Psychology & Psychotherapy. Myself and my associates see clients for a wide variety of concerns such as, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stress, assertiveness, low motivation, family-of-origin concerns, histories of trauma, relationship difficulties and sexual difficulties.
(647) 697-5015 View (647) 697-5015
Photo of Charlie Parker-McKay, Registered Psychotherapist in M4P, ON
Charlie Parker-McKay
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, HBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P  (Online Only)
I am a neurodivergent non-binary lesbian therapist that operates a 2SLGBTQ+ and neurodiversity-affirming trauma-focused practice. I work from culturally informed, intersectional, anti-racist, feminist, and HAES values. I provide strengths-based, client-centered holistic therapy that fosters connection to the whole self. We can explore your values and intersecting identities, build self-compassion, set boundaries, explore access and accommodations, and heal from complex traumas. Together we can build a relationship based on trust and compassion that recognizes and empowers your lived experiences and authentic self.
I am a neurodivergent non-binary lesbian therapist that operates a 2SLGBTQ+ and neurodiversity-affirming trauma-focused practice. I work from culturally informed, intersectional, anti-racist, feminist, and HAES values. I provide strengths-based, client-centered holistic therapy that fosters connection to the whole self. We can explore your values and intersecting identities, build self-compassion, set boundaries, explore access and accommodations, and heal from complex traumas. Together we can build a relationship based on trust and compassion that recognizes and empowers your lived experiences and authentic self.
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Photo of Sarah Cimesa, Registered Psychotherapist in M4P, ON
Sarah Cimesa
Registered Psychotherapist, HBA, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P  (Online Only)
Therapy is an opportunity to bridge personal struggles with new insights of healing and change, and I am here to support you through that process. In my practice, I have had the pleasure of working with diverse populations with a range of challenges and strengths. I am proud to be a part of the LGBT-Queer community and am passionate about supporting individuals from all walks of life to share their story. My work is trauma-informed and strengths-based, with experience in supporting clients to gain emotional balance, motivation, coping strategies, and self-knowledge.
Therapy is an opportunity to bridge personal struggles with new insights of healing and change, and I am here to support you through that process. In my practice, I have had the pleasure of working with diverse populations with a range of challenges and strengths. I am proud to be a part of the LGBT-Queer community and am passionate about supporting individuals from all walks of life to share their story. My work is trauma-informed and strengths-based, with experience in supporting clients to gain emotional balance, motivation, coping strategies, and self-knowledge.
(289) 275-9068 View (289) 275-9068
Photo of Vivian Simone, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in M4P, ON
Vivian Simone
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BEd, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North York, ON M4P
Areas of focus include family dynamics, parenting, religious abuse, queer and trans identities, and neurodivergence.
Times of struggle are bound to surface. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, in pain, angry, or struggling to uphold boundaries. Maybe you sense yourself heading down a difficult and familiar path longing for things to be different. Embracing the complexities of life, including the joys and tribulations, can be extremely rewarding. In moments of conflict, reaching out for support can be a transformative act.
Areas of focus include family dynamics, parenting, religious abuse, queer and trans identities, and neurodivergence.
Times of struggle are bound to surface. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, in pain, angry, or struggling to uphold boundaries. Maybe you sense yourself heading down a difficult and familiar path longing for things to be different. Embracing the complexities of life, including the joys and tribulations, can be extremely rewarding. In moments of conflict, reaching out for support can be a transformative act.
(343) 312-5662 View (343) 312-5662
Photo of John Jacob, Registered Psychotherapist in M4P, ON
John Jacob
Registered Psychotherapist, MB BCh, MPS, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P
The desire for self-awareness, personal growth, and change often motivates individuals to seek out psychotherapy. Disharmony within our sense of self and others can lead us to experience thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that prevent us from living our happiest and most authentic selves. Whether it is coping with grief and loss, processing trauma, or navigating existential concerns regarding identity or purpose, self-exploration within a psychotherapeutic relationship can move us towards an increased awareness of how these dynamics operate within our lives, and forging commitments toward actions that yield meaningful change.
The desire for self-awareness, personal growth, and change often motivates individuals to seek out psychotherapy. Disharmony within our sense of self and others can lead us to experience thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that prevent us from living our happiest and most authentic selves. Whether it is coping with grief and loss, processing trauma, or navigating existential concerns regarding identity or purpose, self-exploration within a psychotherapeutic relationship can move us towards an increased awareness of how these dynamics operate within our lives, and forging commitments toward actions that yield meaningful change.
(647) 699-3163 View (647) 699-3163
Photo of Andrew Ross, Registered Social Worker in M4P, ON
Andrew Ross
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North York, ON M4P  (Online Only)
Whether you're looking to improve your mental health, build stronger relationships, or face personal challenges I'm here to help. I see therapy as an engaging process of discovery, where I will professionally support you as we work towards your goals. As your therapist you can rely on me to work collaboratively with you to foster insight, self-compassion, and a deeper understanding of your emotions and needs. My clinical practice has supported clients to face a range of concerns including anxiety, OCD, relationships issues, eating disorders/body image concerns, sexuality, gender identity, grief, depression, and trauma.
Whether you're looking to improve your mental health, build stronger relationships, or face personal challenges I'm here to help. I see therapy as an engaging process of discovery, where I will professionally support you as we work towards your goals. As your therapist you can rely on me to work collaboratively with you to foster insight, self-compassion, and a deeper understanding of your emotions and needs. My clinical practice has supported clients to face a range of concerns including anxiety, OCD, relationships issues, eating disorders/body image concerns, sexuality, gender identity, grief, depression, and trauma.
(647) 496-1346 View (647) 496-1346
Photo of Avigal Willing, Registered Social Worker in M4P, ON
Avigal Willing
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
Whether this is a new journey or a return - welcome! I am a registered Social Worker with a background in Child and Youth Care, working individually with youth and adults. Through a compassionate, non-judgemental approach to life's challenges we can work collaboratively to nurture self-knowledge, self-acceptance, and develop coping strategies that will best support you. I specifically offer support with gender & sexuality, depression and/or anxiety, trauma and PTSD, high performance dancers and athletes, family conflict, and suicide & self-harm.
Whether this is a new journey or a return - welcome! I am a registered Social Worker with a background in Child and Youth Care, working individually with youth and adults. Through a compassionate, non-judgemental approach to life's challenges we can work collaboratively to nurture self-knowledge, self-acceptance, and develop coping strategies that will best support you. I specifically offer support with gender & sexuality, depression and/or anxiety, trauma and PTSD, high performance dancers and athletes, family conflict, and suicide & self-harm.
(647) 559-8431 View (647) 559-8431
Photo of Laura Turnbull, Psychologist in M4P, ON
Laura Turnbull
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P  (Online Only)
I celebrate diversity, and seek to help individuals understand how their identities and the social world around them impact their mental wellness. My specializations are identity (including sexual, gender, ethnic and religious), relationships/marriage, and chronic pain and disability. I use a variety of tools with a foundation of nonjudgemental, affirmative therapy. Together, we will use tools that suit your strengths and needs to explore issues related to identity, self esteem, depression, anxiety, grief, interpersonal relationships, and more.
I celebrate diversity, and seek to help individuals understand how their identities and the social world around them impact their mental wellness. My specializations are identity (including sexual, gender, ethnic and religious), relationships/marriage, and chronic pain and disability. I use a variety of tools with a foundation of nonjudgemental, affirmative therapy. Together, we will use tools that suit your strengths and needs to explore issues related to identity, self esteem, depression, anxiety, grief, interpersonal relationships, and more.
(672) 202-4155 View (672) 202-4155
Photo of Luc Boudreau, OT Reg, Psychotherapist, Occupational Therapist in M4P, ON
Luc Boudreau, OT Reg, Psychotherapist
Occupational Therapist, BScPsy, BscOT, Reg
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P  (Online Only)
I’m currently welcoming new individuals & couples. Do you feel stuck, aimless or unsatisfied in life? Are you struggling in your relationships? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, low self esteem? Perhaps unresolved shame? It can happen to all of us. Together we can uncover unhelpful patterns, process difficult emotions, and learn specific tools to help you manage life's difficulties. Through our work together, we can help you discover your true potential, while living authentically and confidently.
I’m currently welcoming new individuals & couples. Do you feel stuck, aimless or unsatisfied in life? Are you struggling in your relationships? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, low self esteem? Perhaps unresolved shame? It can happen to all of us. Together we can uncover unhelpful patterns, process difficult emotions, and learn specific tools to help you manage life's difficulties. Through our work together, we can help you discover your true potential, while living authentically and confidently.
(437) 500-6338 View (437) 500-6338
Photo of Derek Cozzi, Registered Psychotherapist in M4P, ON
Derek Cozzi
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
Welcome! I work with individuals and couples. I help clients navigate relationships, sex/intimacy, trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, self-esteem, identity, and grief/loss. I am actively engaged in our sessions, helping you identify, understand, and shift challenging emotions, thought patterns/beliefs, attachment tendencies, and behavioural patterns/defences. My aim is to enhance self-awareness, foster healthier and happier relationships, cultivate emotional resilience, and facilitate meaningful shifts toward improved psychological and emotional well-being. I also offer clinical supervision and consultation.
Welcome! I work with individuals and couples. I help clients navigate relationships, sex/intimacy, trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, self-esteem, identity, and grief/loss. I am actively engaged in our sessions, helping you identify, understand, and shift challenging emotions, thought patterns/beliefs, attachment tendencies, and behavioural patterns/defences. My aim is to enhance self-awareness, foster healthier and happier relationships, cultivate emotional resilience, and facilitate meaningful shifts toward improved psychological and emotional well-being. I also offer clinical supervision and consultation.
(647) 372-1207 View (647) 372-1207
Photo of Marlen Iskander, Registered Psychotherapist in M4P, ON
Marlen Iskander
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
North York, ON M4P
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** When our thoughts get the better of us and we feel overwhelmed, I believe there is always hope to reach the peace for which we all yearn. Through psychotherapy, I support clients struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, identity, and relationships. We all have times when we aren’t sure where we stand in our lives and with others, so I offer a safe and welcoming space where clients can express and find themselves. We are complex individuals with our own unique stories made up of our experiences. Therapy is an empowering space where we can explore these without judgment.
(289) 216-5843 View (289) 216-5843
Photo of Ginelle Foskin, Registered Psychotherapist in M4P, ON
Ginelle Foskin
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
North York, ON M4P
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR IN-PERSON (SAUGA/VAUGHAN) AND PHONE/VIDEO*** Let’s be honest, life is hard, and in many ways, we juggle more today than we ever have! Life’s challenges can leave us feeling stressed, confused, demotivated, even helpless and hopeless. It can be a tough road to travel, but you don't have to walk it alone. As a therapist, I don’t think anyone should feel that way. I am committed to supporting my clients with guidance, care, and connected to the proper resources. With experience working with youth, students, adults, and parents, I enjoy collaborating with clients on a variety of challenges.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR IN-PERSON (SAUGA/VAUGHAN) AND PHONE/VIDEO*** Let’s be honest, life is hard, and in many ways, we juggle more today than we ever have! Life’s challenges can leave us feeling stressed, confused, demotivated, even helpless and hopeless. It can be a tough road to travel, but you don't have to walk it alone. As a therapist, I don’t think anyone should feel that way. I am committed to supporting my clients with guidance, care, and connected to the proper resources. With experience working with youth, students, adults, and parents, I enjoy collaborating with clients on a variety of challenges.
(289) 217-9898 View (289) 217-9898
Photo of Get Therapy Toronto, Registered Social Worker in M4P, ON
Get Therapy Toronto
Registered Social Worker, MA, LCSW-C, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P  (Online Only)
When you pick up the phone to start therapy, you are halfway there. The initial call can be the hardest one. Low self-esteem, relationship issues, depression, anger, grief, loss, trauma, family dynamics -- these are all issues we can work through together. I integrate empathy, theory, skills, and knowledge obtained through years of experience into an intuitive therapy process. While I provide a solid, well-structured treatment plan, I am open to a variety of techniques that will help ensure that your experience is a success.
When you pick up the phone to start therapy, you are halfway there. The initial call can be the hardest one. Low self-esteem, relationship issues, depression, anger, grief, loss, trauma, family dynamics -- these are all issues we can work through together. I integrate empathy, theory, skills, and knowledge obtained through years of experience into an intuitive therapy process. While I provide a solid, well-structured treatment plan, I am open to a variety of techniques that will help ensure that your experience is a success.
(647) 797-9362 View (647) 797-9362
Photo of Orchid Psychotherapy Clinic Toronto, ON in M4P, ON
Orchid Psychotherapy Clinic Toronto, ON
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
Are you or a loved one struggling with depression, anxiety, the effects of trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem, eating or body image issues, grief or other difficulties, or other mental health concerns? Do you feel stuck in old patterns and need help navigating life, or need support to improve your mental health and well-being? We can help you through these difficult times so that you can get back to enjoying your life.
Are you or a loved one struggling with depression, anxiety, the effects of trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem, eating or body image issues, grief or other difficulties, or other mental health concerns? Do you feel stuck in old patterns and need help navigating life, or need support to improve your mental health and well-being? We can help you through these difficult times so that you can get back to enjoying your life.
(647) 496-0834 View (647) 496-0834
Photo of Elizabeth Beiderman, Registered Psychotherapist in M4P, ON
Elizabeth Beiderman
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P  (Online Only)
If you’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed as you navigate relationships, career, and high self-expectations, you may find clarity and relief in therapy. In my practice, I employ an approach that focuses on helping you nurture your own ability to work through difficult situations and achieve a greater state of emotional wellbeing. Working toward meaningful change takes time, honesty with oneself, and a little bit of courage - it isn’t always easy to open up to somebody! My goal is to ensure that you always feel comfortable to express yourself and explore your concerns as we work toward empowering you to live a more fulfilling life.
If you’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed as you navigate relationships, career, and high self-expectations, you may find clarity and relief in therapy. In my practice, I employ an approach that focuses on helping you nurture your own ability to work through difficult situations and achieve a greater state of emotional wellbeing. Working toward meaningful change takes time, honesty with oneself, and a little bit of courage - it isn’t always easy to open up to somebody! My goal is to ensure that you always feel comfortable to express yourself and explore your concerns as we work toward empowering you to live a more fulfilling life.
(647) 492-8085 View (647) 492-8085

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Nearby LGBTQ+ Counsellors Searches for M4P

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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.