LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in M6C
My subspecialties are immigrants, LGBTQIA2S+ and GNC folx.
I have a formidable passion for helping you build and energize a joyful, loving & creative life. My clients are high functioning, gifted, and imaginative individuals, plus HSPs. I am naturally engaged, authentic & direct. Unlike therapists who are silent and write on a pad, aloof & distant, I listen with curiosity & empathy to provide ample feed-back when you request it. You will feel at ease. I will provide you with personalized therapy interventions that can help you with imagination, intuition, warmth, & effectiveness. I draw from Narrative, image-based, Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT therapies, & Mindfulness modalities.
My subspecialties are immigrants, LGBTQIA2S+ and GNC folx.
I have a formidable passion for helping you build and energize a joyful, loving & creative life. My clients are high functioning, gifted, and imaginative individuals, plus HSPs. I am naturally engaged, authentic & direct. Unlike therapists who are silent and write on a pad, aloof & distant, I listen with curiosity & empathy to provide ample feed-back when you request it. You will feel at ease. I will provide you with personalized therapy interventions that can help you with imagination, intuition, warmth, & effectiveness. I draw from Narrative, image-based, Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT therapies, & Mindfulness modalities.
I have 12+ years experience working in coaching and psychotherapy. While working with both individuals and couples, I provide an empathetic and non-judgemental approach. I work with a range of clients and specialize in Relationship issues, Men's issues, Life Transitions, Communication, Self-esteem, Identity development, Overcoming Shame, Mood regulation and LGBTQ+ issues. My approach is eclectic, meaning that one size does not fit all. I work within your paradigm to find what works for you. I work with you at your pace and using methodologies that are most suited to your needs.
I have 12+ years experience working in coaching and psychotherapy. While working with both individuals and couples, I provide an empathetic and non-judgemental approach. I work with a range of clients and specialize in Relationship issues, Men's issues, Life Transitions, Communication, Self-esteem, Identity development, Overcoming Shame, Mood regulation and LGBTQ+ issues. My approach is eclectic, meaning that one size does not fit all. I work within your paradigm to find what works for you. I work with you at your pace and using methodologies that are most suited to your needs.
Marlee Rubel
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C (Online Only)
I am trained to address concerns including, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder, significant life changes, marital and couples counselling, substance use and addictions, grief and loss, as well as gender, sexuality, and queer issues.
I work with adults and couples to help them move towards a state of continued growth, compassion, and self-awareness in a way that is collaborative, strengths-based, and empowering. I believe in creating a client-therapist relationship that fosters authenticity, support, and space for both acceptance, and for change. This can begin in our very first session. Together, we can begin to tease apart the adaptive approaches to dealing with and moving through life you've grown accustomed to, and begin to decipher which of these patterns are serving you, and which you may be interested in moving beyond.
I am trained to address concerns including, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder, significant life changes, marital and couples counselling, substance use and addictions, grief and loss, as well as gender, sexuality, and queer issues.
I work with adults and couples to help them move towards a state of continued growth, compassion, and self-awareness in a way that is collaborative, strengths-based, and empowering. I believe in creating a client-therapist relationship that fosters authenticity, support, and space for both acceptance, and for change. This can begin in our very first session. Together, we can begin to tease apart the adaptive approaches to dealing with and moving through life you've grown accustomed to, and begin to decipher which of these patterns are serving you, and which you may be interested in moving beyond.
Oliver Healey
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C (Online Only)
I especially welcome those facing life-altering or terminal illnesses, healthcare workers, and trans and nonbinary folks.
Grief. It's a word heavy with emotion that often brings up images of loss, sadness, and heartache. But grief is so much more than that. It's a rollercoaster of emotions that is inevitable at some point in life. When we think of grief, we often think of the loss of a loved one. While undoubtedly a significant kind of it, grief can take many forms. It can be the witnessing of another's pain, loss of a job, a relationship, a dream unrealized. It can be the end of an era, the closing of a chapter, the diagnosis of life-altering illness, and the shattering of expectations. No matter the form it takes, grief often feels deeply isolating.
I especially welcome those facing life-altering or terminal illnesses, healthcare workers, and trans and nonbinary folks.
Grief. It's a word heavy with emotion that often brings up images of loss, sadness, and heartache. But grief is so much more than that. It's a rollercoaster of emotions that is inevitable at some point in life. When we think of grief, we often think of the loss of a loved one. While undoubtedly a significant kind of it, grief can take many forms. It can be the witnessing of another's pain, loss of a job, a relationship, a dream unrealized. It can be the end of an era, the closing of a chapter, the diagnosis of life-altering illness, and the shattering of expectations. No matter the form it takes, grief often feels deeply isolating.
Marty Petrovich
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
While my own lived experience is as a Caucasian transgender man, I welcome the opportunity to work with clients of all gender identities and ethnicities.
Hello and welcome! I'm a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist and I look forward to connecting with you. Searching for the right therapist can be a daunting task, especially when this is likely a vulnerable time in your life. I hope my profile can provide you with a bit of clarity and calm in your search. If we were to work together, my priority would be to build a trusting and genuine therapeutic relationship with you. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic space for self-exploration, processing difficult experiences/emotions, and working towards your goals. I also always encourage feedback from you along the way.
While my own lived experience is as a Caucasian transgender man, I welcome the opportunity to work with clients of all gender identities and ethnicities.
Hello and welcome! I'm a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist and I look forward to connecting with you. Searching for the right therapist can be a daunting task, especially when this is likely a vulnerable time in your life. I hope my profile can provide you with a bit of clarity and calm in your search. If we were to work together, my priority would be to build a trusting and genuine therapeutic relationship with you. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic space for self-exploration, processing difficult experiences/emotions, and working towards your goals. I also always encourage feedback from you along the way.
Radinka Jeyathas - Make A Move Life Counselling
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, RSSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C
Accepting New Clients - I guide adults to connect with the evidence and knowledge gained from their experiences to transform their relationships with themselves and others. Come to my practice if you want to experience the three MMLC guiding principles that will restructure your thinking patterns by guiding you into accessing the knowledge you hold (you being the expert in your experiences), joining it to your present day self with everything you have learned (subconscious into the conscious), and guiding you into creating a new knowledge base rooted in authenticity, empowerment, and valuable connections (neuro-pysch)
Accepting New Clients - I guide adults to connect with the evidence and knowledge gained from their experiences to transform their relationships with themselves and others. Come to my practice if you want to experience the three MMLC guiding principles that will restructure your thinking patterns by guiding you into accessing the knowledge you hold (you being the expert in your experiences), joining it to your present day self with everything you have learned (subconscious into the conscious), and guiding you into creating a new knowledge base rooted in authenticity, empowerment, and valuable connections (neuro-pysch)
Julia Walter
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C (Online Only)
There are moments in our lives where we feel stuck or moments of crisis where we have done things that we don't feel ok about. We may be living with persistent fears, thoughts, and behaviours that frighten us, or no longer align with who we are. We may experience difficulties in our relationships or trouble managing the world. We may suffer from current experiences of harm and violence, the wounds from our past, or repeating patterns and behaviours that no longer serve us. In these moments, it’s important to have a space to process our fears, pain, and our hopes while building skills, self-compassion, and a vision for ourselves.
There are moments in our lives where we feel stuck or moments of crisis where we have done things that we don't feel ok about. We may be living with persistent fears, thoughts, and behaviours that frighten us, or no longer align with who we are. We may experience difficulties in our relationships or trouble managing the world. We may suffer from current experiences of harm and violence, the wounds from our past, or repeating patterns and behaviours that no longer serve us. In these moments, it’s important to have a space to process our fears, pain, and our hopes while building skills, self-compassion, and a vision for ourselves.
Jessie Kussin
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C (Online Only)
I offer individual virtual therapy for adults and young people (16+), often focusing on themes including: anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, relationship concerns (with family, partners, friends), personal safety, responding to challenging emotions, sex & sexuality, gender identity and self-worth. With over 18 years of social work practice in the mental health field, I have spent the last 8 years providing individual therapy, working with young people and adults across diverse identities and experiences in a variety of community & post-secondary mental health services.
I offer individual virtual therapy for adults and young people (16+), often focusing on themes including: anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, relationship concerns (with family, partners, friends), personal safety, responding to challenging emotions, sex & sexuality, gender identity and self-worth. With over 18 years of social work practice in the mental health field, I have spent the last 8 years providing individual therapy, working with young people and adults across diverse identities and experiences in a variety of community & post-secondary mental health services.
Melanie Viglas
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C
I view therapy as a collaborative journey. I view my role as a witness and guide on this journey as we explore and bring warmth and curiosity to your experiences, emotions, and beliefs. I strive to support your unique needs and goals while bringing forth and honouring your sources of strength and beauty. Whatever you bring to the therapeutic space, my priority is to hold an empathic and safe space in which you feel valued, cared for and seen.
I view therapy as a collaborative journey. I view my role as a witness and guide on this journey as we explore and bring warmth and curiosity to your experiences, emotions, and beliefs. I strive to support your unique needs and goals while bringing forth and honouring your sources of strength and beauty. Whatever you bring to the therapeutic space, my priority is to hold an empathic and safe space in which you feel valued, cared for and seen.
andtherapy (DBT)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C (Online Only)
Our comprehensive DBT program is committed to providing compassionate & effective treatment for individuals who may experience intense emotions (such as anxiety, depression, anger, shame, guilt), impulsive behaviours (such as self-harm, suicide, stealing, substance use, risky behaviours), & stormy relationships (which could look like switching between pushing people away & clinging to them, challenges with saying no). We also offer trauma treatment through Prolonged Exposure-DBT and/or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) because many of the current day experiences, emotions & views of the world, are based on previous experiences.
Our comprehensive DBT program is committed to providing compassionate & effective treatment for individuals who may experience intense emotions (such as anxiety, depression, anger, shame, guilt), impulsive behaviours (such as self-harm, suicide, stealing, substance use, risky behaviours), & stormy relationships (which could look like switching between pushing people away & clinging to them, challenges with saying no). We also offer trauma treatment through Prolonged Exposure-DBT and/or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) because many of the current day experiences, emotions & views of the world, are based on previous experiences.
Mazda Kahnamuyipour
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CRPO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C
Underneath your lack of energy and motivation , anger and shame, low self esteem, indecision and anxiety, there are feelings that need to be explored. How we create interest and curiosity, is and will be the foundation of future possibilities and choices. I will provide the support you need to start this journey and then will challenge you and offer new choices in a way that empowers you. Once trust is developed through our work together and you start to see new possibilities, you will join me with curiosity to challenge old patterns . I am available for both online as well as in person sessions at my office on St Clair Avenue.
Underneath your lack of energy and motivation , anger and shame, low self esteem, indecision and anxiety, there are feelings that need to be explored. How we create interest and curiosity, is and will be the foundation of future possibilities and choices. I will provide the support you need to start this journey and then will challenge you and offer new choices in a way that empowers you. Once trust is developed through our work together and you start to see new possibilities, you will join me with curiosity to challenge old patterns . I am available for both online as well as in person sessions at my office on St Clair Avenue.
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Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C
People come to see me when they are having difficulty managing as they face life's challenges or go through life's transitions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, hopeless, lonely,confused, scared, frustrated or stuck? Are the issues that you are facing getting in the way of your daily functioning, enjoyment, health, relationships, goals, academic success, job performance and of the hopes and dreams that you have for yourself? Are you tired of feeling the way that you are and want something different for yourself? If you answered "Yes" to any of the above, then you've come to the right place! We can work together to help you move toward a healthier and happier place in a way that fits for you.
People come to see me when they are having difficulty managing as they face life's challenges or go through life's transitions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, hopeless, lonely,confused, scared, frustrated or stuck? Are the issues that you are facing getting in the way of your daily functioning, enjoyment, health, relationships, goals, academic success, job performance and of the hopes and dreams that you have for yourself? Are you tired of feeling the way that you are and want something different for yourself? If you answered "Yes" to any of the above, then you've come to the right place! We can work together to help you move toward a healthier and happier place in a way that fits for you.
I came to Gestalt Psychotherapy after a decade of teaching yoga and meditation workshops in Canada, Greece, Mexico and Nicaragua. I noticed that wisdom practices (such as meditation, yoga, breath-work, and reflection) lead people to face vulnerability and perhaps even pain inside their minds, hearts and bodies. Many people have insights about themselves, but they believe they can mentally figure it out on their own. We are not meant to do all the processing on our own. The therapeutic relationship allows us the support of a compassionate and trained witness so we can explore what is present.
I came to Gestalt Psychotherapy after a decade of teaching yoga and meditation workshops in Canada, Greece, Mexico and Nicaragua. I noticed that wisdom practices (such as meditation, yoga, breath-work, and reflection) lead people to face vulnerability and perhaps even pain inside their minds, hearts and bodies. Many people have insights about themselves, but they believe they can mentally figure it out on their own. We are not meant to do all the processing on our own. The therapeutic relationship allows us the support of a compassionate and trained witness so we can explore what is present.
Denise Lawee
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C (Online Only)
I am an experienced therapist with 34 years of practice to draw upon. I will listen carefully as you describe the issues that you need support and help to sort out. Often, an increased understanding of the challenges that you face can be very helpful to move forward in your life. As well, learning some new skills to manage the issues and/or gaining a new perspective on the issues can be useful as well. I appreciate that it is not easy to embark on a therapy course so I make every effort to be supportive and understanding as we build a therapy relationship.
I am an experienced therapist with 34 years of practice to draw upon. I will listen carefully as you describe the issues that you need support and help to sort out. Often, an increased understanding of the challenges that you face can be very helpful to move forward in your life. As well, learning some new skills to manage the issues and/or gaining a new perspective on the issues can be useful as well. I appreciate that it is not easy to embark on a therapy course so I make every effort to be supportive and understanding as we build a therapy relationship.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, I welcome Children, Teens, Adults, Couples & Families into my practice who are facing anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, grief, addiction, chronic pain/illness, or stress from relationship conflicts. I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Relapse Prevention Therapy, and Self-Care which are personalized to your unique circumstance. I also provide a special Couple's Program and a Deeper Healing Program that addresses pain and utilizes strength to repair.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, I welcome Children, Teens, Adults, Couples & Families into my practice who are facing anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, grief, addiction, chronic pain/illness, or stress from relationship conflicts. I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Relapse Prevention Therapy, and Self-Care which are personalized to your unique circumstance. I also provide a special Couple's Program and a Deeper Healing Program that addresses pain and utilizes strength to repair.
Peter Stathakos & Associates Inc
Registered Social Worker, BBA, MDiv, MSW, CMAT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C
I offer transparency about the techniques I use and provide honest guidance on treatment and implementation.
I specialize in creating customized treatment plans for individuals/couples struggling with sexual dysfunctions and addictions. Sexual Trauma, Porn Addiction, Love Addiction and Sex Crimes are my specialties. My approach not only supports those facing these challenges but also helps partners and families who may feel confused and hurt. According to Parole Services, no one under my care has ever sexually re-offended, and only five couples have ever separated while working with me. I also help with sexual enhancement, intimacy growth, and relationship recovery. Imagine the possibilities that effective therapy can bring to your life.
I offer transparency about the techniques I use and provide honest guidance on treatment and implementation.
I specialize in creating customized treatment plans for individuals/couples struggling with sexual dysfunctions and addictions. Sexual Trauma, Porn Addiction, Love Addiction and Sex Crimes are my specialties. My approach not only supports those facing these challenges but also helps partners and families who may feel confused and hurt. According to Parole Services, no one under my care has ever sexually re-offended, and only five couples have ever separated while working with me. I also help with sexual enhancement, intimacy growth, and relationship recovery. Imagine the possibilities that effective therapy can bring to your life.
Margarita Miniovich
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C (Online Only)
I work with trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, anger, substance use, self-harm, eating disorders, LGBTQ2S+ communities, and refugees/immigrants.
My belief is that people come to therapy to have an experience that is markedly different from what they encounter in their daily life. My training and experience allow me to have the tools to provide an opportunity for that different experience, whether it is getting relief from anxiety, finding grace and gratitude in the midst of grief, or gaining clarity and calm in a situation of overwhelm and confusion. We work collaboratively and creatively to uncover the root causes of your distress or dissatisfaction, and address them without re-traumatization. Our work together is safe, deep, transformative, and often spontaneously joyous.
I work with trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, anger, substance use, self-harm, eating disorders, LGBTQ2S+ communities, and refugees/immigrants.
My belief is that people come to therapy to have an experience that is markedly different from what they encounter in their daily life. My training and experience allow me to have the tools to provide an opportunity for that different experience, whether it is getting relief from anxiety, finding grace and gratitude in the midst of grief, or gaining clarity and calm in a situation of overwhelm and confusion. We work collaboratively and creatively to uncover the root causes of your distress or dissatisfaction, and address them without re-traumatization. Our work together is safe, deep, transformative, and often spontaneously joyous.
Regine Senior-Dunkly
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C
I am passionate about encouraging clients to not only survive, but to thrive in their everyday lives by healing from past traumas and learning new ways to cope with various life challenges. I believe that everyone has the potential to be their best selves with the help of genuine and non-judgemental support. I have worked with both youth and adults presenting with a variety of issues such as low self-esteem, body image issues, depression, anxiety, and grief. I am also trained in suicide prevention (ASIST).
I am passionate about encouraging clients to not only survive, but to thrive in their everyday lives by healing from past traumas and learning new ways to cope with various life challenges. I believe that everyone has the potential to be their best selves with the help of genuine and non-judgemental support. I have worked with both youth and adults presenting with a variety of issues such as low self-esteem, body image issues, depression, anxiety, and grief. I am also trained in suicide prevention (ASIST).
Natasha Batshon
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CNP, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C
With trust, connection and even laughter, I provide a therapeutic environment that is warm and transformative.
I work with adults in individual therapy. I can help bring awareness to the specific obstacles that may be preventing you from living a more fulfilling life. Together, we can make shifts in your relationship with yourself, others, and the world around you that will support your goals. I will provide you with both a nurturing environment and the necessary tools for you to explore what's possible and move beyond what's currently holding you back from continued growth. Together, we’ll work through internal and external barriers so that you can develop strong coping mechanisms and skills that you can rely on.
With trust, connection and even laughter, I provide a therapeutic environment that is warm and transformative.
I work with adults in individual therapy. I can help bring awareness to the specific obstacles that may be preventing you from living a more fulfilling life. Together, we can make shifts in your relationship with yourself, others, and the world around you that will support your goals. I will provide you with both a nurturing environment and the necessary tools for you to explore what's possible and move beyond what's currently holding you back from continued growth. Together, we’ll work through internal and external barriers so that you can develop strong coping mechanisms and skills that you can rely on.
My experience covers ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Burnout, Racial Identity, Grief & Loss, Life Transitions and Relationships.
Navigating life's challenges can be difficult and reaching out for support is often the hardest step. I am here to provide a “safer”, caring and supportive space to you in your mental health journey. I step into the therapeutic space as a woman of colour and a psychotherapist. I recognize how the systems we exist in influence our lives and experiences. My approach is trauma-informed, intersectional, and anti-oppressive. In our sessions, I encourage exploration, offer support, and nurture fresh perspectives through gentle and creative methods.
My experience covers ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Burnout, Racial Identity, Grief & Loss, Life Transitions and Relationships.
Navigating life's challenges can be difficult and reaching out for support is often the hardest step. I am here to provide a “safer”, caring and supportive space to you in your mental health journey. I step into the therapeutic space as a woman of colour and a psychotherapist. I recognize how the systems we exist in influence our lives and experiences. My approach is trauma-informed, intersectional, and anti-oppressive. In our sessions, I encourage exploration, offer support, and nurture fresh perspectives through gentle and creative methods.
See more therapy options for M6C
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.