Photo of Chelsea Iris MacKay, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Chelsea Iris MacKay
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2S
With lived experience as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and having ADHD, I can offer the unique perspective and strategies of someone who "gets it".
Therapy isn't just about new realizations - it's about transforming those realizations into deliberate steps you can take to improve things. I am a strong advocate for a two pronged approach to mental health - developing coping strategies to handle times of crisis, and building a strong foundation to reduce the overall amount of crisis moments in your life. I enjoy working with people who have a wide variety of backgrounds and walks of life.
With lived experience as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and having ADHD, I can offer the unique perspective and strategies of someone who "gets it".
Therapy isn't just about new realizations - it's about transforming those realizations into deliberate steps you can take to improve things. I am a strong advocate for a two pronged approach to mental health - developing coping strategies to handle times of crisis, and building a strong foundation to reduce the overall amount of crisis moments in your life. I enjoy working with people who have a wide variety of backgrounds and walks of life.
(343) 341-5812 View (343) 341-5812
Photo of Bruno Jung-Millen, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Bruno Jung-Millen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
My work at its core is all about building a relational connection and co-creating a safe therapeutic holding space which is informed by the relational psychotherapy and narrative therapy, and my own lived experiences as a racialized gay/queer person and also adoptive parent. Whether your struggles are small or big, what matters in this space is our joint commitment, an emotionally engaged and interactive process, and a shared journey. Our therapeutic relationship is going to be the principal vehicle to bring the changes that you are longing for in your personal and family life, as well as within your larger community.
My work at its core is all about building a relational connection and co-creating a safe therapeutic holding space which is informed by the relational psychotherapy and narrative therapy, and my own lived experiences as a racialized gay/queer person and also adoptive parent. Whether your struggles are small or big, what matters in this space is our joint commitment, an emotionally engaged and interactive process, and a shared journey. Our therapeutic relationship is going to be the principal vehicle to bring the changes that you are longing for in your personal and family life, as well as within your larger community.
(343) 342-2248 View (343) 342-2248
Photo of Jonathan Morgan, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Jonathan Morgan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RPQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
I'm particularly dedicated to working with members of the queer community and our allies.
Experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety? Having a hard time overcoming your past? Therapy can help. I'm a kind, compassionate and experienced counsellor offering psychotherapy to adult individuals online. My goal is to help you get curious about what’s getting in the way of your mental health and to find clarity, acceptance and motivation to start feeling better. My work is trauma-informed and you can expect to feel safe, accepted and empowered in session. Visit my website link to view my full intro video and to book online.
I'm particularly dedicated to working with members of the queer community and our allies.
Experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety? Having a hard time overcoming your past? Therapy can help. I'm a kind, compassionate and experienced counsellor offering psychotherapy to adult individuals online. My goal is to help you get curious about what’s getting in the way of your mental health and to find clarity, acceptance and motivation to start feeling better. My work is trauma-informed and you can expect to feel safe, accepted and empowered in session. Visit my website link to view my full intro video and to book online.
(343) 633-3154 View (343) 633-3154
Photo of Shepherd Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Shepherd Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
We're also passionate about working with fellow queer / 2SLGBTQ+ folks and our allies.
Experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety? Having a hard time overcoming your past? Therapy can help. We're a team of kind, passionate and experienced counsellors based in Ottawa offering psychotherapy to adult individuals online and in-person. Our goal is to help you get curious about what’s getting in the way of your mental health, and to find clarity, acceptance and motivation to start feeling better. Our work is trauma-informed and you can expect to feel safe, accepted and empowered in session. Visit our website to view our intro videos, what to expect in session, and how to book.
We're also passionate about working with fellow queer / 2SLGBTQ+ folks and our allies.
Experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety? Having a hard time overcoming your past? Therapy can help. We're a team of kind, passionate and experienced counsellors based in Ottawa offering psychotherapy to adult individuals online and in-person. Our goal is to help you get curious about what’s getting in the way of your mental health, and to find clarity, acceptance and motivation to start feeling better. Our work is trauma-informed and you can expect to feel safe, accepted and empowered in session. Visit our website to view our intro videos, what to expect in session, and how to book.
(343) 801-1269 View (343) 801-1269
Photo of Markus McIntyre, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Markus McIntyre
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
Working with clients across Ontario and Nova Scotia - As a trans, non-binary, queer, neurodiverse, adoptee, living with disabilities, I bring a unique perspective to working with clients who are experiencing challenges regarding gender, sexual orientation, sexuality, disability, identity, relationships, and with people who have experience with adoption and/or the child welfare system. I work with adults and youth, their families, and social circles to provide support and guidance as they navigate transitions and challenges in their lives. I am a qualified secondary assessor for Transition-Related Surgeries for OHIP coverage.
Working with clients across Ontario and Nova Scotia - As a trans, non-binary, queer, neurodiverse, adoptee, living with disabilities, I bring a unique perspective to working with clients who are experiencing challenges regarding gender, sexual orientation, sexuality, disability, identity, relationships, and with people who have experience with adoption and/or the child welfare system. I work with adults and youth, their families, and social circles to provide support and guidance as they navigate transitions and challenges in their lives. I am a qualified secondary assessor for Transition-Related Surgeries for OHIP coverage.
(647) 372-1541 View (647) 372-1541
Photo of Clark Hinschberger, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Clark Hinschberger
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
Clark is also passionate about working with fellow queer / 2SLGBTQ+ folks, and all of his sessions are currently hosted online via Jane.
Experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety? Having a hard time overcoming your past? Therapy can help. Clark is a kind, passionate and experienced counsellor based in Ottawa offering psychotherapy to adult individuals online. He can help you get curious about what’s getting in the way of your mental health, and help you find clarity, acceptance and motivation to start feeling better. His work is deeply integrative and you can expect to feel safe, accepted and heard in session. Visit his profile on our website to watch his intro video and to book using the booking portal.
Clark is also passionate about working with fellow queer / 2SLGBTQ+ folks, and all of his sessions are currently hosted online via Jane.
Experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety? Having a hard time overcoming your past? Therapy can help. Clark is a kind, passionate and experienced counsellor based in Ottawa offering psychotherapy to adult individuals online. He can help you get curious about what’s getting in the way of your mental health, and help you find clarity, acceptance and motivation to start feeling better. His work is deeply integrative and you can expect to feel safe, accepted and heard in session. Visit his profile on our website to watch his intro video and to book using the booking portal.
(343) 341-2356 View (343) 341-2356
Photo of Aroha Pride Counselling & Consulting, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Aroha Pride Counselling & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1P  (Online Only)
Everyone needs some extra support sometimes. With Aroha Counselling, our mental health professionals support people who are coping with a range of experiences. Our practices are framed within an anti-oppressive, queer affirming, anti-racist, sex positive, trauma informed, and harm reduction lens. Clients can expect a welcoming and stigma free counselling environment. We provide services to anyone in need of support from all walks of life and have additional specialization in providing informed services to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Please note that all of our services are virtual.
Everyone needs some extra support sometimes. With Aroha Counselling, our mental health professionals support people who are coping with a range of experiences. Our practices are framed within an anti-oppressive, queer affirming, anti-racist, sex positive, trauma informed, and harm reduction lens. Clients can expect a welcoming and stigma free counselling environment. We provide services to anyone in need of support from all walks of life and have additional specialization in providing informed services to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Please note that all of our services are virtual.
(343) 321-1390 View (343) 321-1390
Photo of Erinn Brown, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Erinn Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with clients experiencing low self-esteem, family of origin issues, childhood relational trauma, difficulties with assertiveness, exploration of sexual orientation, and existential concerns. I also work frequently with individuals who identify with the LGBTQ+ and gifted communities. Using an integrative approach tailored to the needs of each individual, I strive to help my clients understand and find practical ways to cope with their challenges. I primarily draw upon person-centred, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural, and solution-focused approaches to therapy in my work.
I specialize in working with clients experiencing low self-esteem, family of origin issues, childhood relational trauma, difficulties with assertiveness, exploration of sexual orientation, and existential concerns. I also work frequently with individuals who identify with the LGBTQ+ and gifted communities. Using an integrative approach tailored to the needs of each individual, I strive to help my clients understand and find practical ways to cope with their challenges. I primarily draw upon person-centred, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural, and solution-focused approaches to therapy in my work.
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Photo of Brad Garrison, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Brad Garrison
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
I specialize in sex therapy, couples / marriage counselling, and work with LGBTQ+ and transgender communities and have experience offering service to diverse clients from marginalized, BIPOC, poly, and kink communities.
Sex and relationships are often at the core of our lives. The ways in which we connect with others - and with ourselves - can have significant impacts on our health and well-being. Communication barriers, sexual dysfunction, disconnection, infidelity, domestic abuse, trauma, and other kinds of psychosocial concerns are common challenges that lead people to seek therapy with me. Many of my clients are wanting to calm anxiety, develop coping skills, increase sexual satisfaction, reconnect with partners, or heal from trauma and abuse.
I specialize in sex therapy, couples / marriage counselling, and work with LGBTQ+ and transgender communities and have experience offering service to diverse clients from marginalized, BIPOC, poly, and kink communities.
Sex and relationships are often at the core of our lives. The ways in which we connect with others - and with ourselves - can have significant impacts on our health and well-being. Communication barriers, sexual dysfunction, disconnection, infidelity, domestic abuse, trauma, and other kinds of psychosocial concerns are common challenges that lead people to seek therapy with me. Many of my clients are wanting to calm anxiety, develop coping skills, increase sexual satisfaction, reconnect with partners, or heal from trauma and abuse.
(249) 444-4094 View (249) 444-4094
Photo of Scott Howcroft, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Scott Howcroft
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1V  (Online Only)
I work with a range of clients including those in the LGBTQ+ community, those from different cultures. The majority of my clients are individuals at the moment, I am a sex positive, poly-aware therapist who works with and respects all relationships. If you're feeling stuck (life or career), grieving, depressed or anxious I am happy to work with you. I specialize in life transitions, relationships, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I work with a range of clients including those in the LGBTQ+ community, those from different cultures. The majority of my clients are individuals at the moment, I am a sex positive, poly-aware therapist who works with and respects all relationships. If you're feeling stuck (life or career), grieving, depressed or anxious I am happy to work with you. I specialize in life transitions, relationships, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
(647) 951-7250 View (647) 951-7250
Photo of Kurt Steeves, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ottawa, ON
Kurt Steeves
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients. I am a Queer, pagan, and polyamorous service provider at Pink Opal Counselling. I provide virtual services only. My services are trauma-informed, and grounded in anti-oppressive, feminist, and Queer theories. I have education and training specific to social services, SFBT, mental health, family studies, Queer studies, and psychology. I hope to work with members of the Queer community, those engaged with ethical non-monogamy, and those who may practice alternative spiritualities.
Currently accepting new clients. I am a Queer, pagan, and polyamorous service provider at Pink Opal Counselling. I provide virtual services only. My services are trauma-informed, and grounded in anti-oppressive, feminist, and Queer theories. I have education and training specific to social services, SFBT, mental health, family studies, Queer studies, and psychology. I hope to work with members of the Queer community, those engaged with ethical non-monogamy, and those who may practice alternative spiritualities.
(782) 400-6214 View (782) 400-6214
Photo of Sean Hale, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Sean Hale
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
I have 12+ years experience working in coaching and psychotherapy. While working with both individuals and couples, I provide an empathetic and non-judgemental approach. I work with a range of clients and specialize in Relationship issues, Men's issues, Life Transitions, Communication, Self-esteem, Identity development, Overcoming Shame, Mood regulation and LGBTQ+ issues. My approach is eclectic, meaning that one size does not fit all. I work within your paradigm to find what works for you. I work with you at your pace and using methodologies that are most suited to your needs.
I have 12+ years experience working in coaching and psychotherapy. While working with both individuals and couples, I provide an empathetic and non-judgemental approach. I work with a range of clients and specialize in Relationship issues, Men's issues, Life Transitions, Communication, Self-esteem, Identity development, Overcoming Shame, Mood regulation and LGBTQ+ issues. My approach is eclectic, meaning that one size does not fit all. I work within your paradigm to find what works for you. I work with you at your pace and using methodologies that are most suited to your needs.
(647) 905-0540 View (647) 905-0540
Photo of LGBTQ+ therapy online, Rainbowcounselling, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
LGBTQ+ therapy online, Rainbowcounselling
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1K  (Online Only)
Are you, your relationship or family looking for a therapist with experience & knowledge of 2SLGBTQ+ identities? Rainbowcounselling is a completely virtual 2SLGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling practice which supports folks all over Ontario, Canada. We value anti-oppressive and trauma informed approaches to counselling. Our therapists understand the importance of bridging the gap in accessible mental health care for queer and transgender folks & those in close relationships to the community. Our therapists specialize in topics including: Neurodivergent Identities, Relationships, Trauma, Infidelity, Betrayal, Exploring Sexuality & Gender.
Are you, your relationship or family looking for a therapist with experience & knowledge of 2SLGBTQ+ identities? Rainbowcounselling is a completely virtual 2SLGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling practice which supports folks all over Ontario, Canada. We value anti-oppressive and trauma informed approaches to counselling. Our therapists understand the importance of bridging the gap in accessible mental health care for queer and transgender folks & those in close relationships to the community. Our therapists specialize in topics including: Neurodivergent Identities, Relationships, Trauma, Infidelity, Betrayal, Exploring Sexuality & Gender.
(437) 747-4664 View (437) 747-4664
Photo of Jeff Walsh, The Village Therapy, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Jeff Walsh, The Village Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, PhD(c)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
Are you a queer person struggling to find a therapist? The Village Therapy supports queer and queer-allied individuals on a variety of concerns including substance use, anxiety, depression, emotional distress, family dynamics, medical diagnosis, end-of-life, and queer identity. I have experience working with life altering illness such as multiple sclerosis. All relationships are welcome including ENM and polyamory. Friends and family members impacted by another's substance use, mental health or physical health are welcome. Virtual therapy is available for those in BC, Ontario, and Alberta.
Are you a queer person struggling to find a therapist? The Village Therapy supports queer and queer-allied individuals on a variety of concerns including substance use, anxiety, depression, emotional distress, family dynamics, medical diagnosis, end-of-life, and queer identity. I have experience working with life altering illness such as multiple sclerosis. All relationships are welcome including ENM and polyamory. Friends and family members impacted by another's substance use, mental health or physical health are welcome. Virtual therapy is available for those in BC, Ontario, and Alberta.
(705) 710-3974 View (705) 710-3974
Photo of Tara Jane Wodelet, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Tara Jane Wodelet
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a queer and gender expansive therapist, offering individual online therapy across most Canadian jurisdictions. I offer a contextualizing, self-compassionate, and strengths based approach. While life's hardships will never disappear, I can help you come to more peace and aliveness within yourself. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space to be seen, heard, and grow within. Therapy is kind of like detangling a big ball of yarn; it can be both hard yet relieving (you're not broken, just tangled!), and ultimately allows room for more consciousness/choice to flow in: now that your threads are free, what would you like to weave?
Welcome! I am a queer and gender expansive therapist, offering individual online therapy across most Canadian jurisdictions. I offer a contextualizing, self-compassionate, and strengths based approach. While life's hardships will never disappear, I can help you come to more peace and aliveness within yourself. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space to be seen, heard, and grow within. Therapy is kind of like detangling a big ball of yarn; it can be both hard yet relieving (you're not broken, just tangled!), and ultimately allows room for more consciousness/choice to flow in: now that your threads are free, what would you like to weave?
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Photo of Ari Mastro, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Ari Mastro
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A  (Online Only)
I’m a queer, trans-masculine individual with lived experience in navigating societal and cultural systems that have historically sought to pathologize and ostracize sexual, gender and neurodiverse folks.
Accepting new clients virtually in ON and BC - You deserve to feel heard in a safe, respectful & non-judgemental space. I believe in a compassionate, integrative, whole-person centred approach to therapy and draw upon multiple therapeutic frameworks to help you live the life you truly want.
I’m a queer, trans-masculine individual with lived experience in navigating societal and cultural systems that have historically sought to pathologize and ostracize sexual, gender and neurodiverse folks.
Accepting new clients virtually in ON and BC - You deserve to feel heard in a safe, respectful & non-judgemental space. I believe in a compassionate, integrative, whole-person centred approach to therapy and draw upon multiple therapeutic frameworks to help you live the life you truly want.
(289) 207-3567 View (289) 207-3567
Photo of Praney Anand, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Praney Anand
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
My areas of focus include sex education, support to racialized individuals, members of the queer community, and newcomers to Canada.
I welcome you with a willingness to learn more about whatever might be holding you back in life or your relationship(s). My approach to therapy is client-centred and collaborative. I strive to explore solutions that work in your environment. I am a South Asian, gay/queer, cisgender man, immigrant/settler, & I have extensive experience working with heterosexual & queer/2SLGBTQ+ individuals & couples.
My areas of focus include sex education, support to racialized individuals, members of the queer community, and newcomers to Canada.
I welcome you with a willingness to learn more about whatever might be holding you back in life or your relationship(s). My approach to therapy is client-centred and collaborative. I strive to explore solutions that work in your environment. I am a South Asian, gay/queer, cisgender man, immigrant/settler, & I have extensive experience working with heterosexual & queer/2SLGBTQ+ individuals & couples.
(437) 291-8249 View (437) 291-8249
Photo of Dan Bevan-Baker, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Dan Bevan-Baker
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MTA, BMus
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A  (Online Only)
I am a white, queer, cisgender man and settler. I value authenticity and strive to be collaborative, warm, playful, curious, and compassionate in my work with clients. I invite you to also bring any parts of yourself to our shared therapy space - the hurt, the hidden, the hopeful, and whoever else we may discover. My approach to care is rooted in intersectional, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed frameworks. Some specializations of mine include anxiety, depression, grief, perfectionism, relationship challenges, queer experiences, identity exploration, HIV/AIDS, and trauma. I work with children, youth, adults, and older adults.
I am a white, queer, cisgender man and settler. I value authenticity and strive to be collaborative, warm, playful, curious, and compassionate in my work with clients. I invite you to also bring any parts of yourself to our shared therapy space - the hurt, the hidden, the hopeful, and whoever else we may discover. My approach to care is rooted in intersectional, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed frameworks. Some specializations of mine include anxiety, depression, grief, perfectionism, relationship challenges, queer experiences, identity exploration, HIV/AIDS, and trauma. I work with children, youth, adults, and older adults.
(289) 273-7986 View (289) 273-7986
Photo of Nathan MacRae, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ottawa, ON
Nathan MacRae
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Y  (Online Only)
There is a path forward to a fulfilling and happy future for everyone. Working together, I can support you in cultivating compassion for yourself and others, taking pride in who you are, navigating relationships and moving through the difficulties that arise in life. As a queer trans person, I use an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, intersectional framework, supporting the queer, trans, kink, and non-monogamous communities in unpacking identity, sex and relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction. I offer gender-affirming hormone and top and gonadectomy surgical readiness assessments.
There is a path forward to a fulfilling and happy future for everyone. Working together, I can support you in cultivating compassion for yourself and others, taking pride in who you are, navigating relationships and moving through the difficulties that arise in life. As a queer trans person, I use an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, intersectional framework, supporting the queer, trans, kink, and non-monogamous communities in unpacking identity, sex and relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction. I offer gender-affirming hormone and top and gonadectomy surgical readiness assessments.
(604) 330-0117 View (604) 330-0117
Photo of Alicia Pinelli, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Alicia Pinelli
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K0A  (Online Only)
My name is Alicia Pinelli, RSW, MSW and I identify as a queer person with lived experience.
You have a power within you to overcome obstacles, and thrive within the life you want for yourself. Starting counselling can be scary, intimidating and overwhelming, and that is okay. At Art of Thriving I help to create space where we can go on a journey together towards building a stronger relationship with yourself, uncovering the power that lives within you, and building towards your goals. If you are looking to decrease your stress, build a healthier and more loving relationship with your body and soul, and embark on a journey designed specifically for you, then you’re in right place.
My name is Alicia Pinelli, RSW, MSW and I identify as a queer person with lived experience.
You have a power within you to overcome obstacles, and thrive within the life you want for yourself. Starting counselling can be scary, intimidating and overwhelming, and that is okay. At Art of Thriving I help to create space where we can go on a journey together towards building a stronger relationship with yourself, uncovering the power that lives within you, and building towards your goals. If you are looking to decrease your stress, build a healthier and more loving relationship with your body and soul, and embark on a journey designed specifically for you, then you’re in right place.
(289) 275-9480 View (289) 275-9480

See more therapy options for Ottawa

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.