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 Normand Daemon, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Normand Daemon
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8X
Greetings! I'm Normand, a proud Queer person, a Registered Social Worker, and an avid board game enthusiast. Welcome to my practice, where I emphasize the values of self-determination, diversity, and building strong therapeutic relationships. With a deep understanding of neuroscience and trauma, I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, and life transitions. My practice embraces diverse ages, cultures, and identities, including Indigenous Peoples and the Queer community.
Greetings! I'm Normand, a proud Queer person, a Registered Social Worker, and an avid board game enthusiast. Welcome to my practice, where I emphasize the values of self-determination, diversity, and building strong therapeutic relationships. With a deep understanding of neuroscience and trauma, I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, and life transitions. My practice embraces diverse ages, cultures, and identities, including Indigenous Peoples and the Queer community.
(365) 650-7589 View (365) 650-7589
Photo of Thought & Feeling: Shagun Sharma, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Thought & Feeling: Shagun Sharma
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8W
My lense is cultural and LGBTQIA+ focused.
Starting therapy can feel foreign. Providing a space to explore, challenge and sometimes sit with different emotions, memories, and feelings can help understand our connectivity to our internal and external world, and process difficult and challenging obstacles. I create a compassionate, open, and empowering space while you explore past, present and/or future obstacles and issues. I can help with: anxiety, depression, trauma/complex PTSD/PTSD, bereavement, self-esteem, depersonalization, communication, family conflict, and general life stressors. Ultimately, one of the key goals is to feel a stronger connection to yourself.
My lense is cultural and LGBTQIA+ focused.
Starting therapy can feel foreign. Providing a space to explore, challenge and sometimes sit with different emotions, memories, and feelings can help understand our connectivity to our internal and external world, and process difficult and challenging obstacles. I create a compassionate, open, and empowering space while you explore past, present and/or future obstacles and issues. I can help with: anxiety, depression, trauma/complex PTSD/PTSD, bereavement, self-esteem, depersonalization, communication, family conflict, and general life stressors. Ultimately, one of the key goals is to feel a stronger connection to yourself.
(365) 536-0014 View (365) 536-0014
Photo of Kimberly Murdoch, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Kimberly Murdoch
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW, diplHSC, NTS
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8X  (Online Only)
Sexual identity & LGBT concerns.
Are you feeling anxious, low and tired, having trouble managing each day? Do you see yourself negatively and others as coping better than you? If you are feeling stuck, alone and unsure of what to do, getting help can start with a phone call. Getting help can start with confidential appointments where the focus is about you and the problems you want to understand and change. A caring, professional relationship is a place where you feel understood, safe and supported in building your confidence, coping skills, and strengths; together we plan and build paths towards your goals.
Sexual identity & LGBT concerns.
Are you feeling anxious, low and tired, having trouble managing each day? Do you see yourself negatively and others as coping better than you? If you are feeling stuck, alone and unsure of what to do, getting help can start with a phone call. Getting help can start with confidential appointments where the focus is about you and the problems you want to understand and change. A caring, professional relationship is a place where you feel understood, safe and supported in building your confidence, coping skills, and strengths; together we plan and build paths towards your goals.
(647) 496-5630 View (647) 496-5630
Photo of Victoria Sabo, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Victoria Sabo
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
Queer friendly, kink friendly, polyam friendly.
Virtual Only - Have you been feeling the impact of stress, anxiety, sadness, or low self-esteem lately? Do you struggle to find love, keep love, or feel safe in your current relationships? Do you feel the need to go into your history to better understand who you are? Don't know where to start, but want to get it all out? Whether you're looking to build skills, gain a fresh perspective, or just have someone to talk to, I can help. I offer individual and couples counselling, with a safe, open, and non-judgemental space. Let's sort through the fog and find some clarity.
Queer friendly, kink friendly, polyam friendly.
Virtual Only - Have you been feeling the impact of stress, anxiety, sadness, or low self-esteem lately? Do you struggle to find love, keep love, or feel safe in your current relationships? Do you feel the need to go into your history to better understand who you are? Don't know where to start, but want to get it all out? Whether you're looking to build skills, gain a fresh perspective, or just have someone to talk to, I can help. I offer individual and couples counselling, with a safe, open, and non-judgemental space. Let's sort through the fog and find some clarity.
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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 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 Amanda-Lee Pearse, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Amanda-Lee Pearse
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MA, RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8Y
I provide support to folks related to gender and sexual identity, Anxiety, Depression, and various life transitions. This includes working with youth and adults to reduce the impact of Anxiety and Depression on their lives, navigating identity in relation to relationships and society, and working with parents to support their children around issues of ADHD, Anxiety and/or Depression and issues related to gender and sexual identity. I enjoy working with individuals to explore their own identity, whether it relates to gender, sexuality or simply their identity in relation to those around them.
I provide support to folks related to gender and sexual identity, Anxiety, Depression, and various life transitions. This includes working with youth and adults to reduce the impact of Anxiety and Depression on their lives, navigating identity in relation to relationships and society, and working with parents to support their children around issues of ADHD, Anxiety and/or Depression and issues related to gender and sexual identity. I enjoy working with individuals to explore their own identity, whether it relates to gender, sexuality or simply their identity in relation to those around them.
(289) 236-9836 View (289) 236-9836
Photo of Rosalia Toro, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Rosalia Toro
Registered Psychotherapist, BASc, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I work from a base of empathy and compassion with the goal of helping people improve their own lives. I hope to help you realize your goals and build a plan to reach them. I offer individual therapy for a wide variety of concerns and challenges you may have. I hope to provide a safe space for you to explore your strengths and weaknesses and to learn skills to work towards self-betterment and happiness. I specialize in working with young adults as they navigate the challenges of what it means to understand their identity and how to fit into our ever-changing world, however, I am open to all clients!
Hello and welcome! I work from a base of empathy and compassion with the goal of helping people improve their own lives. I hope to help you realize your goals and build a plan to reach them. I offer individual therapy for a wide variety of concerns and challenges you may have. I hope to provide a safe space for you to explore your strengths and weaknesses and to learn skills to work towards self-betterment and happiness. I specialize in working with young adults as they navigate the challenges of what it means to understand their identity and how to fit into our ever-changing world, however, I am open to all clients!
(365) 800-0679 View (365) 800-0679
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 Regina Marian D'cruz, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Regina Marian D'cruz
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9B
I am a South- Asian therapist who grew up in the Middle East as an immigrant. I support adolescents(13+) and adults in their 20s and 30s. I believe every person is inherently driven toward and has the capacity for growth when in the right environment. While working together collaboratively, you can expect a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free space allowing for self-reflection and self-understanding. I can help you focus and build on your strengths and supports, look for new perspectives, learn skills, and use them to work on yourself and your overall mental health.
I am a South- Asian therapist who grew up in the Middle East as an immigrant. I support adolescents(13+) and adults in their 20s and 30s. I believe every person is inherently driven toward and has the capacity for growth when in the right environment. While working together collaboratively, you can expect a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free space allowing for self-reflection and self-understanding. I can help you focus and build on your strengths and supports, look for new perspectives, learn skills, and use them to work on yourself and your overall mental health.
(647) 559-2423 View (647) 559-2423
Photo of Jennifer L McDonnell, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Jennifer L McDonnell
Registered Psychotherapist, MS, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9A
Our mental health can impact every aspect of our lives, leaving us detached or even hopeless. We will work together to create a safe space where you feel comfortable to explore deeper meanings to your thoughts, feelings, past and present. Whatever conflicts you may have and unanswered questions you feel burdened with, we can work together to give you a sense of control and purpose over your health and life. With traumatic events in particular, they can keep us trapped in the past. Our sessions cannot undo your experiences, but they can take away how these traumas show up on a daily basis and give you a much more fulfilling present.
Our mental health can impact every aspect of our lives, leaving us detached or even hopeless. We will work together to create a safe space where you feel comfortable to explore deeper meanings to your thoughts, feelings, past and present. Whatever conflicts you may have and unanswered questions you feel burdened with, we can work together to give you a sense of control and purpose over your health and life. With traumatic events in particular, they can keep us trapped in the past. Our sessions cannot undo your experiences, but they can take away how these traumas show up on a daily basis and give you a much more fulfilling present.
(437) 524-0426 View (437) 524-0426
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 Sedâ Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Sedâ Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B  (Online Only)
Sedâ Psychotherapy consists of a team of therapists who are available to support you in navigating your individual and relationship challenges. Our therapists provide virtual services to youth (aged 6+), adults, couples, and families in Ontario. Common concerns that we help clients with are anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, children's mental health, 2SLGBTQ+ experiences, identity exploration, perfectionism, sex and sexuality, life transitions, OCD, ADHD, disordered eating, and substance use concerns.
Sedâ Psychotherapy consists of a team of therapists who are available to support you in navigating your individual and relationship challenges. Our therapists provide virtual services to youth (aged 6+), adults, couples, and families in Ontario. Common concerns that we help clients with are anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, children's mental health, 2SLGBTQ+ experiences, identity exploration, perfectionism, sex and sexuality, life transitions, OCD, ADHD, disordered eating, and substance use concerns.
(289) 301-7804 View (289) 301-7804
Photo of Safer Spaces Therapy: Individuals & Relationships, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Safer Spaces Therapy: Individuals & Relationships
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C  (Online Only)
If you are looking for a safe space to process your experiences of trauma, discrimination, relationship challenges, anxiety, identity (& more), our therapists are here for you. We have an experienced and diverse team to support you in being your authentic self. Safer Spaces was created by a passion for anti-oppressive care, empowerment, and self-development. We dive deep into all of the systems at play in your life to enhance your understanding of the factors having impact. We believe in cultivating a strong inner compass in order to help you feel more confident and fulfilled in yourself but also in your relationships with others.
If you are looking for a safe space to process your experiences of trauma, discrimination, relationship challenges, anxiety, identity (& more), our therapists are here for you. We have an experienced and diverse team to support you in being your authentic self. Safer Spaces was created by a passion for anti-oppressive care, empowerment, and self-development. We dive deep into all of the systems at play in your life to enhance your understanding of the factors having impact. We believe in cultivating a strong inner compass in order to help you feel more confident and fulfilled in yourself but also in your relationships with others.
(365) 601-8410 View (365) 601-8410
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 Jonathan Stephansson, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Jonathan Stephansson
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8Z  (Online Only)
Therapy is a unique individual journey that requires trust, honesty, and authenticity at its core from day one. I strive for all these qualities with clients and to use my clinical skills to foster successful healing and growth that addresses current mental health challenges and in the pursuit of long-term sustainable mental health and wellness. My clinical practice is grounded in an anti-oppressive, anti-racism, and social justice foundation, and I specialize in individual therapy with adolescents (ages 12-19) and adults of all ages.
Therapy is a unique individual journey that requires trust, honesty, and authenticity at its core from day one. I strive for all these qualities with clients and to use my clinical skills to foster successful healing and growth that addresses current mental health challenges and in the pursuit of long-term sustainable mental health and wellness. My clinical practice is grounded in an anti-oppressive, anti-racism, and social justice foundation, and I specialize in individual therapy with adolescents (ages 12-19) and adults of all ages.
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Photo of Haylee Lough, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Haylee Lough
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X
Waitlist for new clients
First, I want to acknowledge that you are here! The journey to finding the right therapist for you can be time consuming and emotional; I know, I’ve been through it myself. I want to recognize the hard work you are doing right now taking this important step to finding peace and clarity in life. Whatever you may be struggling with, I am here to help you gain a deeper understanding and develop a more compassionate relationship with yourself. My approach is person-centered, collaborative and rooted in empathy. This means we will work together to identify ways to live alongside or move past, the challenges you face.
First, I want to acknowledge that you are here! The journey to finding the right therapist for you can be time consuming and emotional; I know, I’ve been through it myself. I want to recognize the hard work you are doing right now taking this important step to finding peace and clarity in life. Whatever you may be struggling with, I am here to help you gain a deeper understanding and develop a more compassionate relationship with yourself. My approach is person-centered, collaborative and rooted in empathy. This means we will work together to identify ways to live alongside or move past, the challenges you face.
(365) 536-2280 View (365) 536-2280

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.