Photo of Shani @ Hatch-Me Therapy in Etobicoke, ON
Shani @ Hatch-Me Therapy
MS, BCBA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B
As a minority and member of the LGBT+ community, I am no stranger to struggles and will proudly be your ally on this journey.
Sometimes all we need is a little guidance to help us combat darkness, move past hurdles, and restore our sense of 'self'. My goal as your therapist is to help you heal, while equipping you with skills that allow you to take on life's challenges, such as: bolstering communication, emotional regulation, and self-empowerment. We can work together to free your world from unwanted guests like anxiety and depression, while learning ways to invite self-love. In order to make transformative changes to your life, I incorporate evidence-based approaches including: CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Behavioural Skills Training, and more!
As a minority and member of the LGBT+ community, I am no stranger to struggles and will proudly be your ally on this journey.
Sometimes all we need is a little guidance to help us combat darkness, move past hurdles, and restore our sense of 'self'. My goal as your therapist is to help you heal, while equipping you with skills that allow you to take on life's challenges, such as: bolstering communication, emotional regulation, and self-empowerment. We can work together to free your world from unwanted guests like anxiety and depression, while learning ways to invite self-love. In order to make transformative changes to your life, I incorporate evidence-based approaches including: CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Behavioural Skills Training, and more!
(289) 302-2595 View (289) 302-2595
Photo of Harrison Mungal Bth. Msw. McC. Ph.d. Psy.d. Rsw., Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Harrison Mungal Bth. Msw. McC. Ph.d. Psy.d. Rsw.
Registered Social Worker, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9W
With dual doctorates in Clinical Psychology and Philosophy in Social Work, as well as master's degrees in Social Work and Counselling, Harrison is a seasoned therapist specializing in mental health, addictions, and family dynamics. Recognized as a leading cognitive therapy workshop presenter, he has spoken globally and authored over 30 books. Harrison employs a science-backed, creative approach to treatment, providing training and consultations to various community partners, including universities, medical professionals, police officers, EMS, firefighters, nurses, SWs, psychotherapists, psychologists, LGBTQ, and the general public.
With dual doctorates in Clinical Psychology and Philosophy in Social Work, as well as master's degrees in Social Work and Counselling, Harrison is a seasoned therapist specializing in mental health, addictions, and family dynamics. Recognized as a leading cognitive therapy workshop presenter, he has spoken globally and authored over 30 books. Harrison employs a science-backed, creative approach to treatment, providing training and consultations to various community partners, including universities, medical professionals, police officers, EMS, firefighters, nurses, SWs, psychotherapists, psychologists, LGBTQ, and the general public.
(844) 382-8975 View (844) 382-8975
Photo of La'Tarra Tynes, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
La'Tarra Tynes
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP, CCC, MHT, MFT
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8Z  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am fully trained to address concerns with anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief , mood disorders, OCD, relationship distress/marital discord, self-confidence, career issues, LGBTQ+ concerns, ADD/ADHD, somatic health issues, general life transitions and much more.
With over 13 years of experience - I offer individual, couples/marriage and family therapy. Through understanding, I offer an authentic and warm environment for support and compassion. I believe it is very important to foster a safe space for both acceptance and change, therefore, integrating your worldview is a vital part of the process. I work from a client-centered, strength based perspective by listening attentively to fully understand your issue, so that through collaboration we can identify solutions in a way that is empowering.
I am fully trained to address concerns with anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief , mood disorders, OCD, relationship distress/marital discord, self-confidence, career issues, LGBTQ+ concerns, ADD/ADHD, somatic health issues, general life transitions and much more.
With over 13 years of experience - I offer individual, couples/marriage and family therapy. Through understanding, I offer an authentic and warm environment for support and compassion. I believe it is very important to foster a safe space for both acceptance and change, therefore, integrating your worldview is a vital part of the process. I work from a client-centered, strength based perspective by listening attentively to fully understand your issue, so that through collaboration we can identify solutions in a way that is empowering.
(289) 805-6183 View (289) 805-6183
Photo of Melanie Saija, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Melanie Saija
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BSc
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8W
I love to support couples, including ethical non monogamous and LGBTQ+ couples!.
Conflicts in relationships are inevitable! It’s how we adapt & overcome them that makes the difference. These conflicts can be circumstantial or rooted in anxieties from the past and may not look like your typical conflict. Perhaps you find yourself experiencing the same anxious thoughts or maybe you're stuck in the same negative patterns that you can't seem to break as a couple. Interpersonal and internal conflict can leave us feeling stuck, confused, stressed, overwhelmed, or depressed. Most importantly, recognizing that fear is an emotion we all experience and discovering how fear operates for you is okay to explore.
I love to support couples, including ethical non monogamous and LGBTQ+ couples!.
Conflicts in relationships are inevitable! It’s how we adapt & overcome them that makes the difference. These conflicts can be circumstantial or rooted in anxieties from the past and may not look like your typical conflict. Perhaps you find yourself experiencing the same anxious thoughts or maybe you're stuck in the same negative patterns that you can't seem to break as a couple. Interpersonal and internal conflict can leave us feeling stuck, confused, stressed, overwhelmed, or depressed. Most importantly, recognizing that fear is an emotion we all experience and discovering how fear operates for you is okay to explore.
(289) 210-7366 View (289) 210-7366
Photo of Valerie R De Souza, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Valerie R De Souza
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MPS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9V
As a spiritually plural cis queer educated foreign-born settler woman of colour, I am aware of the intersecting realities of privilege & oppression.
Do you feel stuck in old patterns of thoughts/behaviours? Are you trying to embrace who you truly are as you graduate into adulthood, steer through relationship endings, or transition into a new stage/year in life? Do you struggle with being imperfectly human in societal structures calling for your perfection to belong? Is guilt/shame messaging from cultural norms about your gender, sexual orientation, 'race' etc. holding you back from achieving your full potential? Are losses weighing you down? If YES to any of these, I'd like to support you to grow into your wholehearted authentic life. Now's the time to invest in YOU!
As a spiritually plural cis queer educated foreign-born settler woman of colour, I am aware of the intersecting realities of privilege & oppression.
Do you feel stuck in old patterns of thoughts/behaviours? Are you trying to embrace who you truly are as you graduate into adulthood, steer through relationship endings, or transition into a new stage/year in life? Do you struggle with being imperfectly human in societal structures calling for your perfection to belong? Is guilt/shame messaging from cultural norms about your gender, sexual orientation, 'race' etc. holding you back from achieving your full potential? Are losses weighing you down? If YES to any of these, I'd like to support you to grow into your wholehearted authentic life. Now's the time to invest in YOU!
(647) 370-9524 View (647) 370-9524
Photo of Victoria Muñoz, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Victoria Muñoz
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, BA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist can feel like a daunting task. Not only are you looking for a professional you can deeply trust, but also one you feel safe with, seen, heard, and validated by. My services are built on developing a strong therapeutic relationship within which the growth and relief you deserve can occur. Together, in a non-judgemental space, we can address topics & concerns ranging from emotional regulation, trauma & survivorship, infidelity, polyamory, attachment, ruptures of trust, grief, conflict & communication, sex & intimacy, sexuality & gender identity, racial & cultural identity, and self-criticism & blame.
Finding the right therapist can feel like a daunting task. Not only are you looking for a professional you can deeply trust, but also one you feel safe with, seen, heard, and validated by. My services are built on developing a strong therapeutic relationship within which the growth and relief you deserve can occur. Together, in a non-judgemental space, we can address topics & concerns ranging from emotional regulation, trauma & survivorship, infidelity, polyamory, attachment, ruptures of trust, grief, conflict & communication, sex & intimacy, sexuality & gender identity, racial & cultural identity, and self-criticism & blame.
(647) 424-4438 View (647) 424-4438
Photo of J. Roberto Do Nascimento, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
J. Roberto Do Nascimento
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9C
My approach as therapist is to provide a supportive environment, serving as a container to explorer and access inner potential. Therapeutic sessions includes narrative psychotherapies, expressive arts therapy, client centred to name some. I believe when we provide the right conditions for ourselves, we open doors to growth rediscovering our own potentials within. I facilitate sessions tailored to serve clients on their individualized needs, on a mutual, trusting, collaborative connection. Exploring tools within and finding meaningful life. In private practice since 2007, I am a Registered Psychotherapist. On Palliative Care sector.
My approach as therapist is to provide a supportive environment, serving as a container to explorer and access inner potential. Therapeutic sessions includes narrative psychotherapies, expressive arts therapy, client centred to name some. I believe when we provide the right conditions for ourselves, we open doors to growth rediscovering our own potentials within. I facilitate sessions tailored to serve clients on their individualized needs, on a mutual, trusting, collaborative connection. Exploring tools within and finding meaningful life. In private practice since 2007, I am a Registered Psychotherapist. On Palliative Care sector.
(289) 272-7594 View (289) 272-7594
Photo of NKS Therapy, Counsellor in Etobicoke, ON
NKS Therapy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B
Voted Top 5 in Toronto for Best Psychotherapists in 2021, NKS Therapy is a team of psychotherapists, marriage/family therapists, counsellors and life coaches in Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Oakville who specialize in mental health support for adults, couples, teenagers, and families. With multiple experts on the NKS Therapy team, we will help you achieve your goals through a deeper understanding of yourself, and help you make conscious choices today. We offer sessions virtually & in-person. Start living a better life today with a FREE 15-minute therapy consultation! A Happier, Healthier, Better Version of Yourself awaits.
Voted Top 5 in Toronto for Best Psychotherapists in 2021, NKS Therapy is a team of psychotherapists, marriage/family therapists, counsellors and life coaches in Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Oakville who specialize in mental health support for adults, couples, teenagers, and families. With multiple experts on the NKS Therapy team, we will help you achieve your goals through a deeper understanding of yourself, and help you make conscious choices today. We offer sessions virtually & in-person. Start living a better life today with a FREE 15-minute therapy consultation! A Happier, Healthier, Better Version of Yourself awaits.
(289) 206-7074 View (289) 206-7074
Photo of Krystyna Namolovan, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Krystyna Namolovan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Are you struggling with anxiety, relationship concerns, self-esteem issues, or unhealed trauma? Do you ever wonder how did you end up where you are and can’t seem to find a way out? You came to the right place. My name is Krystyna (Krys), and I am here to support you on your journey toward ultimate wellness and to help you attain mental and emotional healing. I approach counselling with a non-judgemental attitude, unconditional positive regard, respect, empathy, and understanding.
Are you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Are you struggling with anxiety, relationship concerns, self-esteem issues, or unhealed trauma? Do you ever wonder how did you end up where you are and can’t seem to find a way out? You came to the right place. My name is Krystyna (Krys), and I am here to support you on your journey toward ultimate wellness and to help you attain mental and emotional healing. I approach counselling with a non-judgemental attitude, unconditional positive regard, respect, empathy, and understanding.
(437) 800-2168 View (437) 800-2168
Photo of Ashley Mathew, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Ashley Mathew
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9V  (Online Only)
I take a holistic approach to a person’s life, recognizing the impact and continued effects of colonization and systemic racism on racialized bodies. Marginalized communities experience higher rates of loss. Understanding that people experience micro-aggressions, discrimination and racism (overt and covert) socio-political injustices. People may come to me for multiple reasons: Identity development. Economic and health inequities. Over-policing, violence and incarceration, detentions and deportations. Interracial relationships. Workplace stress.
I take a holistic approach to a person’s life, recognizing the impact and continued effects of colonization and systemic racism on racialized bodies. Marginalized communities experience higher rates of loss. Understanding that people experience micro-aggressions, discrimination and racism (overt and covert) socio-political injustices. People may come to me for multiple reasons: Identity development. Economic and health inequities. Over-policing, violence and incarceration, detentions and deportations. Interracial relationships. Workplace stress.
(289) 778-5717 View (289) 778-5717
Photo of Trevor Birrell, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Trevor Birrell
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
Sometimes in life, the challenges we face seem insurmountable. The loss too great. The grief unbearable. We were never meant to do this alone. We are designed for relationship. Allow me to bear witness to your journey. To celebrate your successes and grieve your losses. Let me use our relationship to shed a light on who you are alone and who you are in the world.
Sometimes in life, the challenges we face seem insurmountable. The loss too great. The grief unbearable. We were never meant to do this alone. We are designed for relationship. Allow me to bear witness to your journey. To celebrate your successes and grieve your losses. Let me use our relationship to shed a light on who you are alone and who you are in the world.
(647) 277-5069 View (647) 277-5069
Photo of Justin the Therapist, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Justin the Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C
***STILL OPEN FOR IN-PERSON GUELPH/MISSISSAUGA*** I believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. I have helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As a relational therapist, I appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. I do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, I see my clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. I see strengths and I see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***STILL OPEN FOR IN-PERSON GUELPH/MISSISSAUGA*** I believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. I have helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As a relational therapist, I appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. I do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, I see my clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. I see strengths and I see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 274-8209 View (289) 274-8209
Photo of Sophia Sammy, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Sophia Sammy
Registered Psychotherapist, CYC, MA, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
No waitlist, accepting new clients in Milton, ON. I have experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and with a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions. My passion lies in working with BIPOC individuals facing cultural dissonance and intergenerational trauma. I am committed to creating a safe and non-judgmental space where my clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and gain insight into themselves and their lives.
No waitlist, accepting new clients in Milton, ON. I have experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and with a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions. My passion lies in working with BIPOC individuals facing cultural dissonance and intergenerational trauma. I am committed to creating a safe and non-judgmental space where my clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and gain insight into themselves and their lives.
(289) 275-8980 View (289) 275-8980
Photo of Shanti Georgiou, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Shanti Georgiou
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9R  (Online Only)
We each have a story, what’s yours? I would be honored to hold space with you, to hear that story. All too often this is too hard for us to do on our own. As a natural helper, I’m here to listen, support and reflect while you explore your narrative. In our time together, you will have the openness to unfold and unpack, enlighten and transform, all those thoughts, emotions and situations that you have been holding onto. I trust in the heart of talk therapy, where we can have an authentic conversation. I believe that individuals can thrive, that they have the tenacity and will power to make the necessary changes to their lives.
We each have a story, what’s yours? I would be honored to hold space with you, to hear that story. All too often this is too hard for us to do on our own. As a natural helper, I’m here to listen, support and reflect while you explore your narrative. In our time together, you will have the openness to unfold and unpack, enlighten and transform, all those thoughts, emotions and situations that you have been holding onto. I trust in the heart of talk therapy, where we can have an authentic conversation. I believe that individuals can thrive, that they have the tenacity and will power to make the necessary changes to their lives.
(289) 210-5285 View (289) 210-5285
Photo of Peace-Yvonne Solutions Corp, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Peace-Yvonne Solutions Corp
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9W  (Online Only)
I am a registered Social Worker with Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I hold a Master’s of Social Work Degree from the University of Windsor and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from York University. My professional experience includes working with families and individuals involved with the child welfare system, families experiencing parent teen conflicts, separation issues, depression, anger, divorce, contact issues, stress, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, relationship challenges.
I am a registered Social Worker with Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I hold a Master’s of Social Work Degree from the University of Windsor and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from York University. My professional experience includes working with families and individuals involved with the child welfare system, families experiencing parent teen conflicts, separation issues, depression, anger, divorce, contact issues, stress, anxiety, grief, loss, trauma, relationship challenges.
(289) 216-6875 View (289) 216-6875
Photo of Natasha Sharma, Counsellor in Etobicoke, ON
Natasha Sharma
Counsellor, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B
Hi! I'm Natasha Sharma: Therapist, TEDx Speaker, and CEO of NKS Therapy. Do you feel sad, stressed out, irritable or angry? Do you feel unable to let go of things that happened in the past, or worry constantly about the future? Are you experiencing distress, anxiety or depressed mood? As we have seen with the COVID-19 pandemic, life can be challenging. And unpredictable We can't always control it but we can control how we experience & respond to it. At my clinic NKS Therapy we provide you the tools to identify your emotions & get control over them. We offer expert counselling therapy for individuals, couples/marriage, & families.
Hi! I'm Natasha Sharma: Therapist, TEDx Speaker, and CEO of NKS Therapy. Do you feel sad, stressed out, irritable or angry? Do you feel unable to let go of things that happened in the past, or worry constantly about the future? Are you experiencing distress, anxiety or depressed mood? As we have seen with the COVID-19 pandemic, life can be challenging. And unpredictable We can't always control it but we can control how we experience & respond to it. At my clinic NKS Therapy we provide you the tools to identify your emotions & get control over them. We offer expert counselling therapy for individuals, couples/marriage, & families.
(289) 207-4800 View (289) 207-4800
Photo of Joanne Elizabeth Spence, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Joanne Elizabeth Spence
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9P
I believe that every person has a right to make their own life choices. These choices do not always align with the values of the family or culture of which the person is part of and this can create many challenges for people. My role as a therapist is to help clients determine what they want to achieve and to support them as they move forward with their goals.
I believe that every person has a right to make their own life choices. These choices do not always align with the values of the family or culture of which the person is part of and this can create many challenges for people. My role as a therapist is to help clients determine what they want to achieve and to support them as they move forward with their goals.
(647) 370-1866 View (647) 370-1866
Photo of John Sendim | Uplift Therapy For Men - Etobicoke, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
John Sendim | Uplift Therapy For Men - Etobicoke
Registered Psychotherapist, MPS, RP, CAPP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
Are you tired of suffering in silence? As a man, you may feel uncomfortable thinking or talking about your feelings. From challenges in your relationships and your career to feelings of self-doubt, you may find yourself feeling disconnected from how you want to show up in your life. Life’s stressors can have you acting in ways that you don’t feel good about at the end of the day. By talking it out, you can find calm in the chaos, and develop new ways of coping. As a male therapist who understands how men have been conditioned to suppress their feelings, I invite you to explore those emotions in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Are you tired of suffering in silence? As a man, you may feel uncomfortable thinking or talking about your feelings. From challenges in your relationships and your career to feelings of self-doubt, you may find yourself feeling disconnected from how you want to show up in your life. Life’s stressors can have you acting in ways that you don’t feel good about at the end of the day. By talking it out, you can find calm in the chaos, and develop new ways of coping. As a male therapist who understands how men have been conditioned to suppress their feelings, I invite you to explore those emotions in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
(647) 931-3454 View (647) 931-3454
Photo of Nikki Sedaghat, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Nikki Sedaghat
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My work involves collaborating with you to cultivate deeper awareness, meaning, connection, and fulfillment in your life and relationships. I can support you through issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, perfectionism, self-criticism, sex and sexuality, conflict and communication, and relationship concerns. I bring in a non-judgmental, anti-oppressive, and compassionate stance to therapy, to build a therapeutic relationship with you where you feel safe, connected, and supported in your journey towards positive change.
My work involves collaborating with you to cultivate deeper awareness, meaning, connection, and fulfillment in your life and relationships. I can support you through issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, perfectionism, self-criticism, sex and sexuality, conflict and communication, and relationship concerns. I bring in a non-judgmental, anti-oppressive, and compassionate stance to therapy, to build a therapeutic relationship with you where you feel safe, connected, and supported in your journey towards positive change.
(833) 483-0911 View (833) 483-0911
Photo of Pamela C. Smith, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Pamela C. Smith
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B  (Online Only)
I believe in the healing capacity of people and my role as a psychotherapist is to provide a safe and supportive environment to help people access their own potential within. My therapeutic approach is diverse and includes transpersonal, solution-focused, client-centred, mindfulness, and narrative psychotherapies. I approach therapy and the clients I serve by connecting to the needs and unique style of each person I am supporting. I work with people navigating various difficulties including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues and more. I have extensive experience in grief and trauma.
I believe in the healing capacity of people and my role as a psychotherapist is to provide a safe and supportive environment to help people access their own potential within. My therapeutic approach is diverse and includes transpersonal, solution-focused, client-centred, mindfulness, and narrative psychotherapies. I approach therapy and the clients I serve by connecting to the needs and unique style of each person I am supporting. I work with people navigating various difficulties including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues and more. I have extensive experience in grief and trauma.
(647) 699-2427 View (647) 699-2427

See more therapy options for Etobicoke

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.