LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in M4V
We are trauma informed, neurodiversity affirming, queer positive and anti oppressive.
Welcome! I'm Tammy, Registered Social Worker for over thirty years and Director of Horizon Therapy. We could all benefit at different times in our lives to have a safe space to talk about concerns and receive support. Our experienced therapists specialize in working with individuals, couples and families and are dedicated to supporting you in your personal goals & growth. Drawing on psychodynamic, relational, mindfulness, attachment, somatic, emotion-focused and transpersonal approaches we work collaboratively in ways that support you best. We offer a free phone consult to determine which of our therapists is the right fit for you.
We are trauma informed, neurodiversity affirming, queer positive and anti oppressive.
Welcome! I'm Tammy, Registered Social Worker for over thirty years and Director of Horizon Therapy. We could all benefit at different times in our lives to have a safe space to talk about concerns and receive support. Our experienced therapists specialize in working with individuals, couples and families and are dedicated to supporting you in your personal goals & growth. Drawing on psychodynamic, relational, mindfulness, attachment, somatic, emotion-focused and transpersonal approaches we work collaboratively in ways that support you best. We offer a free phone consult to determine which of our therapists is the right fit for you.
You might be struggling with feelings of "stuckness," unhappiness, grief, or isolation. You may feel that something is standing between you and the life you wish to live - or, you may not be sure what that life would look like. You might have experienced a major life event or shift that you are struggling to move forward with, or you may be noticing patterns that you feel unable to break. Whatever is weighing on you, I am glad you are searching for someone to share this load. I invite you to work with me in an environment that welcomes queer & trans folks, BIPOC folks, neurodivergence, disability, and is body- and sex work-positive.
You might be struggling with feelings of "stuckness," unhappiness, grief, or isolation. You may feel that something is standing between you and the life you wish to live - or, you may not be sure what that life would look like. You might have experienced a major life event or shift that you are struggling to move forward with, or you may be noticing patterns that you feel unable to break. Whatever is weighing on you, I am glad you are searching for someone to share this load. I invite you to work with me in an environment that welcomes queer & trans folks, BIPOC folks, neurodivergence, disability, and is body- and sex work-positive.
Occurring at any point in the lifespan, difficult and traumatic life experiences can leave their traces on us and impact the way that we experience the world around us. Have you found that the wounded parts of you are directing too much of your life? Are you looking for better coping skills? It might be time for you to begin the work of healing and start to experience the world more peacefully. I support women, non-binary, and trans adults who are looking to heal wounds related to traumatic experiences.
Occurring at any point in the lifespan, difficult and traumatic life experiences can leave their traces on us and impact the way that we experience the world around us. Have you found that the wounded parts of you are directing too much of your life? Are you looking for better coping skills? It might be time for you to begin the work of healing and start to experience the world more peacefully. I support women, non-binary, and trans adults who are looking to heal wounds related to traumatic experiences.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) and a humanistic mental health counsellor. Do you feel like things aren't the way you thought they would be? Are you feeling stuck or misunderstood? I offer talking therapy towards helping you shape your perspective into a healthy and productive one. Whether it's your career, your relationships, or anything else that's important to you. I practice under a multicultural and multilingual perspective respecting the individual experience of otherness.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) and a humanistic mental health counsellor. Do you feel like things aren't the way you thought they would be? Are you feeling stuck or misunderstood? I offer talking therapy towards helping you shape your perspective into a healthy and productive one. Whether it's your career, your relationships, or anything else that's important to you. I practice under a multicultural and multilingual perspective respecting the individual experience of otherness.
My experience as part of the 2S LGBTQ+ community and background in creative arts gives me a unique perspective and toolset to work with.
Having the right therapist to talk to and collaborate with on your goals, challenges, and emotional turmoil can help put things into perspective and create a plan for success. It can be challenging to navigate the world in the face of oppression, disability, stigma, and other barriers to success. My therapy draws on inner strengths and creative expression to manage complex thoughts and emotions, and increase feelings of empowerment. I emphasize meaning-making, the importance of self-efficacy, and perceived control of experiences in the healing process from cognitive, somatic, and social-constructivist perspectives.
My experience as part of the 2S LGBTQ+ community and background in creative arts gives me a unique perspective and toolset to work with.
Having the right therapist to talk to and collaborate with on your goals, challenges, and emotional turmoil can help put things into perspective and create a plan for success. It can be challenging to navigate the world in the face of oppression, disability, stigma, and other barriers to success. My therapy draws on inner strengths and creative expression to manage complex thoughts and emotions, and increase feelings of empowerment. I emphasize meaning-making, the importance of self-efficacy, and perceived control of experiences in the healing process from cognitive, somatic, and social-constructivist perspectives.
Whether we identify as male, female, transgendered, non-binary, mother, father, or other, I know one thing for sure; we are humans playing a part in this game of life. We all practice being human, unconsciously and/or consciously. We all experience life's most difficult trials and troubles and yes, we also experience joy. This is immutable. Given this reality, how can we live our life optimally, rich with purpose and fulfillment while balancing the curve balls, the numbness, the stress, the cravings, or the hurt? The truth is, you can do it. We can do it together. Sometimes all you need is a patient helping hand.
Whether we identify as male, female, transgendered, non-binary, mother, father, or other, I know one thing for sure; we are humans playing a part in this game of life. We all practice being human, unconsciously and/or consciously. We all experience life's most difficult trials and troubles and yes, we also experience joy. This is immutable. Given this reality, how can we live our life optimally, rich with purpose and fulfillment while balancing the curve balls, the numbness, the stress, the cravings, or the hurt? The truth is, you can do it. We can do it together. Sometimes all you need is a patient helping hand.
Ashley Edwardson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4V (Online Only)
I have experience supporting folks through grief and loss, addiction, gender transition, relationship issues, and vicarious trauma.
In your sessions, we will explore what you bring with curiosity and openness. Whether you are struggling in your relationships, experiencing loss or a big life change, or feeling overwhelmed and stressed, together we can explore what's happening, consider what makes sense for you, and make space to hold the feelings that are surfacing. Life is full of situations that can be difficult to navigate alone. Together, we can create a space to slow down, reflect, and better understand who you are and how you want to be in the world so that you can live a more connected and fulfilled life.
I have experience supporting folks through grief and loss, addiction, gender transition, relationship issues, and vicarious trauma.
In your sessions, we will explore what you bring with curiosity and openness. Whether you are struggling in your relationships, experiencing loss or a big life change, or feeling overwhelmed and stressed, together we can explore what's happening, consider what makes sense for you, and make space to hold the feelings that are surfacing. Life is full of situations that can be difficult to navigate alone. Together, we can create a space to slow down, reflect, and better understand who you are and how you want to be in the world so that you can live a more connected and fulfilled life.
I work with clients to ensure that they are receiving the care that works with their unique goals, and that they feel witnessed through their journey. I work with clients, from youths to adults, who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, sex and intimacy challenges, and interpersonal relationship issues. My aim is to support and guide clients using a mind-body approach that cultivates more depth from their self-reflection and emotional processing. I approach this work with openness, and aim to create a safe and brave space where these stories are both held and heard.
I work with clients to ensure that they are receiving the care that works with their unique goals, and that they feel witnessed through their journey. I work with clients, from youths to adults, who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, sex and intimacy challenges, and interpersonal relationship issues. My aim is to support and guide clients using a mind-body approach that cultivates more depth from their self-reflection and emotional processing. I approach this work with openness, and aim to create a safe and brave space where these stories are both held and heard.
Chelsea Rothwell - In The Pines Grief And Death Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4V
Hello, thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I’m so sorry that you’re looking for a grief therapist, and have a lot of respect for your courage. I’ve spent the last ten years deep in the muddy waters of loss, devoted to the skillful practice of grieving in community. I am a board-certified thanatologist who has studied grief from embodied, academic, cultural, and psychotherapeutic perspectives. I’ve worked with grief across various sectors— in hospitals and hospices, in community deathcare, as an apprentice farmer and Bruce Trail captain amidst an ongoing climate crisis, and on the frontlines of the opioid epidemic.
Hello, thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I’m so sorry that you’re looking for a grief therapist, and have a lot of respect for your courage. I’ve spent the last ten years deep in the muddy waters of loss, devoted to the skillful practice of grieving in community. I am a board-certified thanatologist who has studied grief from embodied, academic, cultural, and psychotherapeutic perspectives. I’ve worked with grief across various sectors— in hospitals and hospices, in community deathcare, as an apprentice farmer and Bruce Trail captain amidst an ongoing climate crisis, and on the frontlines of the opioid epidemic.
People of all ages have expertise on their own lives. When problems linger and impact mental health and well-being, collaborating with a therapist who is a good fit for you can provide a safe space to establish perspective and highlight the unique values, skills and knowledge you bring to your lived experience. I strive to create warm, respectful and strength-based working relationships that allow us to identify problem solving skills and abilities to reduce the influence of the problem or dissolve it altogether. Sometimes a single consultation is useful while other problems might have us consulting for a period of time.
People of all ages have expertise on their own lives. When problems linger and impact mental health and well-being, collaborating with a therapist who is a good fit for you can provide a safe space to establish perspective and highlight the unique values, skills and knowledge you bring to your lived experience. I strive to create warm, respectful and strength-based working relationships that allow us to identify problem solving skills and abilities to reduce the influence of the problem or dissolve it altogether. Sometimes a single consultation is useful while other problems might have us consulting for a period of time.
Since 2006, I have been supporting people in traversing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, isolation, life transition, discrimination, racism, and systemic oppression.
Sometimes , the journey of life can be a rough one. You feel lost, defeated, alone, and full of fear. But you haven’t given up. There’s a part of you that tells you that somehow there’s still hope, that you just need a helping hand.
Since 2006, I have been supporting people in traversing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, isolation, life transition, discrimination, racism, and systemic oppression.
Sometimes , the journey of life can be a rough one. You feel lost, defeated, alone, and full of fear. But you haven’t given up. There’s a part of you that tells you that somehow there’s still hope, that you just need a helping hand.
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It's a fact that talking helps. You'll find that our sessions are rich, interactive, and inspiring. We work together to strengthen your resolve, manage your symptoms, and increase your ability to choose more consciously. There are many ways to understand your unique circumstances. Since I began practicing in 2003, I have developed the skill to tailor a number of psychotherapeutic theories to the specific needs of my clients. With so many stressors, one's point of view can get lost, and yet the greatest and most undervalued resource is yourself. Our sessions make you the focal point, and from there much can happen.
It's a fact that talking helps. You'll find that our sessions are rich, interactive, and inspiring. We work together to strengthen your resolve, manage your symptoms, and increase your ability to choose more consciously. There are many ways to understand your unique circumstances. Since I began practicing in 2003, I have developed the skill to tailor a number of psychotherapeutic theories to the specific needs of my clients. With so many stressors, one's point of view can get lost, and yet the greatest and most undervalued resource is yourself. Our sessions make you the focal point, and from there much can happen.
Each of us comes into this world with unique gifts and an individual perspective. When we are able to use our gifts to handle the stressors and challenges that enter our lives we are able to successfully cope with them. However, when we become overwhelmed by our circumstances to the point where our abilities to cope and enjoy life are affected, that is a sign that consulting a therapist can be useful. Taking that step and calling a therapist takes a lot of courage and it shows that you want to make a positive change in your life.
Each of us comes into this world with unique gifts and an individual perspective. When we are able to use our gifts to handle the stressors and challenges that enter our lives we are able to successfully cope with them. However, when we become overwhelmed by our circumstances to the point where our abilities to cope and enjoy life are affected, that is a sign that consulting a therapist can be useful. Taking that step and calling a therapist takes a lot of courage and it shows that you want to make a positive change in your life.
Pinar Sungur
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, CRPO
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4V (Online Only)
Your journey to self-discovery and well-being is personal and transformative.
I'm a registered psychotherapist (qualifying) supporting adult individuals in navigating life transitions, relational difficulties, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and cultural identity challenges. I also help clients find clarity in their journey of self-discovery, and cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and identity. In our therapeutic relationship, you can expect a safe and welcoming space characterized by warmth, curiosity, and even moments of humour when they can contribute positively to your healing process.
Your journey to self-discovery and well-being is personal and transformative.
I'm a registered psychotherapist (qualifying) supporting adult individuals in navigating life transitions, relational difficulties, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and cultural identity challenges. I also help clients find clarity in their journey of self-discovery, and cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and identity. In our therapeutic relationship, you can expect a safe and welcoming space characterized by warmth, curiosity, and even moments of humour when they can contribute positively to your healing process.
I appreciate that asking for help and sharing lived experiences are whole-hearted actions. It is a privilege for me to provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults during times of great distress, change, and loss. Clients often describe a loss of meaning and purpose in their lives, overcome by confusing and messy emotions that sabotage their functioning. Some clients are acutely aware of their compromised quality of life whereas others would describe chronic life conditions. My areas of specialization include anxiety, psychological trauma, depression, grief and bereavement, terminal illness, and chronic illness.
I appreciate that asking for help and sharing lived experiences are whole-hearted actions. It is a privilege for me to provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults during times of great distress, change, and loss. Clients often describe a loss of meaning and purpose in their lives, overcome by confusing and messy emotions that sabotage their functioning. Some clients are acutely aware of their compromised quality of life whereas others would describe chronic life conditions. My areas of specialization include anxiety, psychological trauma, depression, grief and bereavement, terminal illness, and chronic illness.
Nicola Doyle
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CCC, ACC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4V (Online Only)
Life can be incredibly challenging, especially when struggling with complex issues on your own. Despite your best efforts, it's normal to feel stuck, unfulfilled, and seemingly out of options. But you don't have to go through it alone. My approach is warm and down-to-earth and focuses on building a trusted relationship with you and collaborating on your most important goals. Together, within a safe space, we will work to uncover your inner wisdom, navigate your challenges, and move towards more meaningful and fulfilling ways of being with yourself and others.
Life can be incredibly challenging, especially when struggling with complex issues on your own. Despite your best efforts, it's normal to feel stuck, unfulfilled, and seemingly out of options. But you don't have to go through it alone. My approach is warm and down-to-earth and focuses on building a trusted relationship with you and collaborating on your most important goals. Together, within a safe space, we will work to uncover your inner wisdom, navigate your challenges, and move towards more meaningful and fulfilling ways of being with yourself and others.
Dr. Stephanie Bot (Founder Forest Hill Centre)
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4V
We offer services for adults, couples, professionals and groups coping with life challenges, life cycle transitions, parenting, intimate and professional relationships as well as workplace issues including employee relations, stress, harassment and bullying.
Dr. Bot is the founder and director of the Forest Hill Centre. She oversees the intake process to ensure you are matched with the most suitable clinician to meet your specific needs. At the Forest Hill Centre, we believe in your capacity to evolve and transcend your challenges. Our mandate is to partner with you to help you become the best possible versions of yourself where you are more fully engaged with your life, less burdened by emotional suffering and troubled relationships while actively realizing your potential.
We offer services for adults, couples, professionals and groups coping with life challenges, life cycle transitions, parenting, intimate and professional relationships as well as workplace issues including employee relations, stress, harassment and bullying.
Dr. Bot is the founder and director of the Forest Hill Centre. She oversees the intake process to ensure you are matched with the most suitable clinician to meet your specific needs. At the Forest Hill Centre, we believe in your capacity to evolve and transcend your challenges. Our mandate is to partner with you to help you become the best possible versions of yourself where you are more fully engaged with your life, less burdened by emotional suffering and troubled relationships while actively realizing your potential.
Are you seeking relief, clarity and well-being? Realigning your inner strengths and creating the balance you desire and deserve in your life is achievable! Stressful relationships (personal, family, work), loss, depression, anxiety, anger and conflict are some things I can assist you with. I can help you with being focused and grounded and, ultimately, more present. Being present, with yourself and others, is the only place from which you can make effective, conscious, lasting choices and changes. During 24 years in private practice I've had the privilege of working with many people of different ages, personalities and backgrounds.
Are you seeking relief, clarity and well-being? Realigning your inner strengths and creating the balance you desire and deserve in your life is achievable! Stressful relationships (personal, family, work), loss, depression, anxiety, anger and conflict are some things I can assist you with. I can help you with being focused and grounded and, ultimately, more present. Being present, with yourself and others, is the only place from which you can make effective, conscious, lasting choices and changes. During 24 years in private practice I've had the privilege of working with many people of different ages, personalities and backgrounds.
With years of experience, I provide individual counselling to youth, young adults, and adults experiencing intrapersonal challenges such as feelings of anxiety, low mood/depression, low self-worth, difficult life transitions, grief and loss, as well as interpersonal challenges with friends, family, partners, and peers. Using a supportive, exploratory, client-centered approach I support and guide the individual in exploring and connecting to their experiences and emotions in a safe space with a focus on positive and meaningful change.
With years of experience, I provide individual counselling to youth, young adults, and adults experiencing intrapersonal challenges such as feelings of anxiety, low mood/depression, low self-worth, difficult life transitions, grief and loss, as well as interpersonal challenges with friends, family, partners, and peers. Using a supportive, exploratory, client-centered approach I support and guide the individual in exploring and connecting to their experiences and emotions in a safe space with a focus on positive and meaningful change.
Accepting new clients! I help teenagers and adults manage anxiety stemming from life transitions, work-life balance, and trauma. Anxiety and past experiences should not define one's value or future, and we can make active changes to overcome these challenges. Many complain about how exhausting anxiety can be - but we don't have to resign to living like this forever. The way I see it, the goal of therapy is to both get to know yourself and your anxiety, but also to take back control to minimize its impact on relationships and academic or professional development.
Accepting new clients! I help teenagers and adults manage anxiety stemming from life transitions, work-life balance, and trauma. Anxiety and past experiences should not define one's value or future, and we can make active changes to overcome these challenges. Many complain about how exhausting anxiety can be - but we don't have to resign to living like this forever. The way I see it, the goal of therapy is to both get to know yourself and your anxiety, but also to take back control to minimize its impact on relationships and academic or professional development.
See more therapy options for M4V
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.