Photo of Regina Marian D'cruz, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Regina Marian D'cruz
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9C
I also work with the LGBTQ+ and immigrant community, drawing from lived experience.
In today's world, filled with uncertainty, social media pressures, and global events, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Life as an adult isn't how we envisioned it to be. The reality can be filled with unexpected challenges, from career setbacks to relationship difficulties and personal identity crises. As a therapist specializing in working with people in their 20s and 30s, I believe you have a natural ability to grow and be resilient. Together, we can navigate the unique challenges of this life stage and cultivate a greater sense of well-being. My approach is grounded in empathy, compassion, and a trauma-informed perspective.
I also work with the LGBTQ+ and immigrant community, drawing from lived experience.
In today's world, filled with uncertainty, social media pressures, and global events, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Life as an adult isn't how we envisioned it to be. The reality can be filled with unexpected challenges, from career setbacks to relationship difficulties and personal identity crises. As a therapist specializing in working with people in their 20s and 30s, I believe you have a natural ability to grow and be resilient. Together, we can navigate the unique challenges of this life stage and cultivate a greater sense of well-being. My approach is grounded in empathy, compassion, and a trauma-informed perspective.
(647) 559-2423 View (647) 559-2423
Photo of Shani @ Hatch-Me Therapy, MS, BCBA
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, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Normand Daemon
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8X
Reach out today, and let's begin your transformative journey towards a more fulfilling and authentic life.
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. I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, and life transitions. My practice embraces diverse ages, cultures, and identities, including Indigenous Peoples and Queer folx.
Reach out today, and let's begin your transformative journey towards a more fulfilling and authentic life.
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. I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, and life transitions. My practice embraces diverse ages, cultures, and identities, including Indigenous Peoples and Queer folx.
(365) 650-7589 View (365) 650-7589
Photo of Shagun Sharma - Thought & Feeling: Shagun Sharma, Registered Psychotherapist
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, MSW, BSW, RSW, diplHSC, NTS, Registered Social Worker
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 Harrison Mungal Bth. Msw. McC. Ph.d. Psy.d. Rsw., PhD, PsyD, Registered Social Worker
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 Melanie Saija, MA, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist
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 Rosalia Toro, BASc, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
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 Kayla Persaud, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kayla Persaud
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9R
I am dedicated to helping children and teens navigate the challenges of growing up in today’s complex world. With many years of experience working with children and adolescents, I offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where young people can express themselves freely and work through their difficulties. My goal is to empower children and teens to develop resilience, self-awareness, and coping skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Children and teens face many pressures, from academic stress to social dynamics and family changes. I am passionate about helping them find their voice and build confidence.
I am dedicated to helping children and teens navigate the challenges of growing up in today’s complex world. With many years of experience working with children and adolescents, I offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where young people can express themselves freely and work through their difficulties. My goal is to empower children and teens to develop resilience, self-awareness, and coping skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Children and teens face many pressures, from academic stress to social dynamics and family changes. I am passionate about helping them find their voice and build confidence.
(289) 207-1407 View (289) 207-1407
Photo of Natasha Sharma - NKS Therapy, Counsellor
NKS Therapy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B
We also provide parenting support and education, Vocational Assessments, and career transition guidance & counselling.
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.
We also provide parenting support and education, Vocational Assessments, and career transition guidance & counselling.
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 Nikki Sedaghat - Sedâ Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist
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. In addition to our full-fee services, our student therapists offer lower-cost and pro bono therapy options. 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, 2S LGBTQ+ 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. In addition to our full-fee services, our student therapists offer lower-cost and pro bono therapy options. 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, 2S LGBTQ+ 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 Jonathan Stephansson, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jonathan Stephansson
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8Z  (Online Only)
Therapy is a unique and individual journey that requires trust, honesty, and authenticity at its core from day one. I strive for all these qualities with clients and to foster successful healing and growth that addresses your 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, trauma informed, 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 and individual journey that requires trust, honesty, and authenticity at its core from day one. I strive for all these qualities with clients and to foster successful healing and growth that addresses your 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, trauma informed, 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 Ashley Mathew, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
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, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Trevor Birrell
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
6 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 Haylee Lough, RSSW, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
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
Photo of Justin Michel - Justin the Therapist, MA, MSc, RP, RMFT, Registered Psychotherapist
Justin the Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C
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.
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 Jace Armstrong, SSW, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jace Armstrong
Registered Social Worker, SSW, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9W
I encourage individuals and couples to discover the transformative impact of a holistic approach and reach out for the help that we all need and deserve.
If you or someone you know is grappling with various challenges related to stress, mental health, or issues within your relationship, I hope this page offers you guidance and is the 'right' fit to meet your needs. Regardless of your background or struggle, I am here to provide you with a safe and empathetic space where there is understanding, respect and support in navigating your concerns.
I encourage individuals and couples to discover the transformative impact of a holistic approach and reach out for the help that we all need and deserve.
If you or someone you know is grappling with various challenges related to stress, mental health, or issues within your relationship, I hope this page offers you guidance and is the 'right' fit to meet your needs. Regardless of your background or struggle, I am here to provide you with a safe and empathetic space where there is understanding, respect and support in navigating your concerns.
(289) 903-0991 View (289) 903-0991
Photo of Vanessa Villani, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Vanessa Villani
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9B  (Online Only)
I completed my M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Toronto Metropolitan University, and I am registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO). I assess and provide therapy for anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, PTSD, OCD, interpersonal challenges, emotion regulation difficulties, and parenting. I care deeply about working with my clients to improve mental health and wellbeing.
I completed my M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Toronto Metropolitan University, and I am registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO). I assess and provide therapy for anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, PTSD, OCD, interpersonal challenges, emotion regulation difficulties, and parenting. I care deeply about working with my clients to improve mental health and wellbeing.
(365) 601-1387 View (365) 601-1387
Photo of Carly Clifton - Balanced Mind and Wellness Inc, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Balanced Mind and Wellness Inc
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8X
Do you often find yourself living in the past, dwelling on things that have happened, or living in the future, worrying about what might happen? Having trouble dealing with or identifying depressed or anxious feelings? I can provide clarity, motivation, and help you put into words what you are experiencing. Life's issues define your world - I can bring passion and purpose back into your life, with effective solutions to specific problems. Our practice is practical and interactive. We work together as a team with you to find the best solution for you. Let us help you reach your true potential!
Do you often find yourself living in the past, dwelling on things that have happened, or living in the future, worrying about what might happen? Having trouble dealing with or identifying depressed or anxious feelings? I can provide clarity, motivation, and help you put into words what you are experiencing. Life's issues define your world - I can bring passion and purpose back into your life, with effective solutions to specific problems. Our practice is practical and interactive. We work together as a team with you to find the best solution for you. Let us help you reach your true potential!
(833) 748-9754 View (833) 748-9754
Photo of Teen And Adult Therapist Kristin Robinson, BA, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Teen And Adult Therapist Kristin Robinson
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9P  (Online Only)
I’m experienced working with survivors of sexual violence, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-worth, diet culture, and other various mental health concerns.
Therapy can be hard! And awkward. And vulnerable. It’s crucial that you feel seen, safe, and respected by your therapist and I’m here to bring in some levity and play to help us do the hard work. It’s important to me that you feel like an active participant and collaborator in the therapy process. Human beings are made up of all types of different stories; stories we tell others, stories we tell ourselves, some stories that are handed to us by the world without any of our say at all! Together, we can explore and learn more about the stories that make up your life and maybe write new ones!
I’m experienced working with survivors of sexual violence, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-worth, diet culture, and other various mental health concerns.
Therapy can be hard! And awkward. And vulnerable. It’s crucial that you feel seen, safe, and respected by your therapist and I’m here to bring in some levity and play to help us do the hard work. It’s important to me that you feel like an active participant and collaborator in the therapy process. Human beings are made up of all types of different stories; stories we tell others, stories we tell ourselves, some stories that are handed to us by the world without any of our say at all! Together, we can explore and learn more about the stories that make up your life and maybe write new ones!
(647) 797-0703 View (647) 797-0703
1

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.