LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Wellesley, ON

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Photo of Steff Armstrong, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Steff Armstrong
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N0B  (Online Only)
Areas of experience include; 2S LGBTQ+ youth, substance use, sexuality, sexual health, depression, anxiety, families, HIV, self-esteem, eating disorders, & diabetes.
Welcome! I am a queer and gender queer person who is committed to personal growth & continuous learning both in my professional & personal life. I aim to bring an intersectional, anti-oppressive, & harm reduction lens to my practice. This includes an understanding of how systemic power & privilege impact our lives, our experiences, how we see the world & how the world sees us. I want to work with you to address your needs & concerns so that you are able to create goals, achieve personal growth & work towards mental wellness. I love discovering & exploring identity, working with anxiety, depression, work stress, & family issues.
Areas of experience include; 2S LGBTQ+ youth, substance use, sexuality, sexual health, depression, anxiety, families, HIV, self-esteem, eating disorders, & diabetes.
Welcome! I am a queer and gender queer person who is committed to personal growth & continuous learning both in my professional & personal life. I aim to bring an intersectional, anti-oppressive, & harm reduction lens to my practice. This includes an understanding of how systemic power & privilege impact our lives, our experiences, how we see the world & how the world sees us. I want to work with you to address your needs & concerns so that you are able to create goals, achieve personal growth & work towards mental wellness. I love discovering & exploring identity, working with anxiety, depression, work stress, & family issues.
(226) 909-2274 View (226) 909-2274
Photo of Tara Cardiff, MA, (Psych), BSc(OT), Occupational Therapist
Tara Cardiff
Occupational Therapist, MA, (Psych), BSc(OT)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elora, ON N0B
My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming - I work with individuals of all genders, sexual & romantic orientations, and relationship styles.
I work with youth and adults who are struggling with cumulative stress, anxiety, or trauma and want to develop a sense of emotional stability and well-being; they're looking for a therapist who can be authentic. Going beyond traditional talk therapy, I use somatic (body-based) psychotherapy in healing trauma, including developmental trauma - childhood abuse, neglect, or caregiver misattunement. Somatic therapy is a gentle, experiential approach that integrates awareness of body sensations to allow the body, mind and emotions to heal from trauma, so you can feel more connected and engaged in your life.
My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming - I work with individuals of all genders, sexual & romantic orientations, and relationship styles.
I work with youth and adults who are struggling with cumulative stress, anxiety, or trauma and want to develop a sense of emotional stability and well-being; they're looking for a therapist who can be authentic. Going beyond traditional talk therapy, I use somatic (body-based) psychotherapy in healing trauma, including developmental trauma - childhood abuse, neglect, or caregiver misattunement. Somatic therapy is a gentle, experiential approach that integrates awareness of body sensations to allow the body, mind and emotions to heal from trauma, so you can feel more connected and engaged in your life.
(226) 780-7081 View (226) 780-7081
Photo of Diem Morriswala, Pre-Licensed Professional
Diem Morriswala
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arkell, ON N0B
I have an interest in grief work, self-esteem, relationship issues, and providing LGBTQ2S+ affirming care.
If you are on this page, you may feel alone or like your voice is unheard by those around you. Maybe you are at a crossroads in your life or looking to make a change. As a queer and trans Indian individual who grew up in Texas, I understand what it can be like to feel invisible and unheard. I believe we all have a voice worth hearing and a story worth telling, and I am here to support you as you work toward your goals, however big or small. Because each of us is unique in our strengths and struggles, I take a person-centred and intersectional approach, drawing from narrative therapy, relational-cultural theory, and mindfulness.
I have an interest in grief work, self-esteem, relationship issues, and providing LGBTQ2S+ affirming care.
If you are on this page, you may feel alone or like your voice is unheard by those around you. Maybe you are at a crossroads in your life or looking to make a change. As a queer and trans Indian individual who grew up in Texas, I understand what it can be like to feel invisible and unheard. I believe we all have a voice worth hearing and a story worth telling, and I am here to support you as you work toward your goals, however big or small. Because each of us is unique in our strengths and struggles, I take a person-centred and intersectional approach, drawing from narrative therapy, relational-cultural theory, and mindfulness.
(226) 286-4931 View (226) 286-4931
Photo of Octavia Marquis, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Octavia Marquis
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N0B
Both my background and life experiences help me effectively work alongside racialized queer & POC in our community.
As a film and book lover, I’ve always been fascinated by the power of stories to shape our lives. Just like the characters we connect with on-screen or in a novel, the stories we tell about ourselves can have a profound impact on how we see the world and our place in it. In my practice, I bring this passion for storytelling into our work together, helping you explore and reshape your own story in a way that feels authentic and empowering. Whether it's finding new perspectives or rewriting old narratives, I believe that understanding and owning your story can be a powerful tool for change.
Both my background and life experiences help me effectively work alongside racialized queer & POC in our community.
As a film and book lover, I’ve always been fascinated by the power of stories to shape our lives. Just like the characters we connect with on-screen or in a novel, the stories we tell about ourselves can have a profound impact on how we see the world and our place in it. In my practice, I bring this passion for storytelling into our work together, helping you explore and reshape your own story in a way that feels authentic and empowering. Whether it's finding new perspectives or rewriting old narratives, I believe that understanding and owning your story can be a powerful tool for change.
(437) 747-5506 View (437) 747-5506
Photo of Megan Day - Individual Couple And Family Therapy, MS, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Megan Day - Individual Couple And Family Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MS, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ayr, ON N0B
I am trauma-informed and operate from an anti-oppressive/ queer/feminist framework.
Are you struggling with your relationships, whether that be with your partner(s) or kids? Are you trying to get clear on who you are now, not who you used to be? As a therapist who is trained relationally, I work with individuals, couples and families. I am interested in helping you change the story of yourself and seeing what else is possible for you. My approach is gentle and non-confrontational. I listen for what has not yet been said and I ask thought-provoking questions that help you explore your thoughts and feelings. I want you to feel relief and to feel more connected to yourself and your loved ones.
I am trauma-informed and operate from an anti-oppressive/ queer/feminist framework.
Are you struggling with your relationships, whether that be with your partner(s) or kids? Are you trying to get clear on who you are now, not who you used to be? As a therapist who is trained relationally, I work with individuals, couples and families. I am interested in helping you change the story of yourself and seeing what else is possible for you. My approach is gentle and non-confrontational. I listen for what has not yet been said and I ask thought-provoking questions that help you explore your thoughts and feelings. I want you to feel relief and to feel more connected to yourself and your loved ones.
(226) 779-5924 View (226) 779-5924
Photo of Tara Lung, RPQ, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Tara Lung
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPQ, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N0B
Tara is a Registered Psychotherapist - Qualifying who graduated from Yorkville University with a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. She previously completed a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Carleton University. Tara is also certified as a yoga instructor through Power Yoga Canada. With over fifteen years experience working as a mentor and life-coach to young adults, Tara is experienced at connecting with individuals from various backgrounds. She is passionate about journeying alongside her clients in their quest for self-discovery and healing. She tailors her approach to meet her clients' unique needs and goals.
Tara is a Registered Psychotherapist - Qualifying who graduated from Yorkville University with a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. She previously completed a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Carleton University. Tara is also certified as a yoga instructor through Power Yoga Canada. With over fifteen years experience working as a mentor and life-coach to young adults, Tara is experienced at connecting with individuals from various backgrounds. She is passionate about journeying alongside her clients in their quest for self-discovery and healing. She tailors her approach to meet her clients' unique needs and goals.
(548) 901-0854 View (548) 901-0854
Photo of Sarah Ferland, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sarah Ferland
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N0B  (Online Only)
As a therapist, my greatest satisfaction comes from witnessing people transform during their healing journey, particularly in trauma recovery.
As a Social Worker with over 7 years of experience, I specialize in guiding individuals through challenging times, particularly in the realm of trauma recovery. My primary focus is delving into the roots of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that may be hindering your progress. Life's pressures can be overwhelming, often leaving us feeling lost and down. I understand the weight of worthlessness, guilt, shame, anxiety, and depression that can take hold. In the case of trauma, its impact can be profound, affecting various aspects of our lives.
As a therapist, my greatest satisfaction comes from witnessing people transform during their healing journey, particularly in trauma recovery.
As a Social Worker with over 7 years of experience, I specialize in guiding individuals through challenging times, particularly in the realm of trauma recovery. My primary focus is delving into the roots of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that may be hindering your progress. Life's pressures can be overwhelming, often leaving us feeling lost and down. I understand the weight of worthlessness, guilt, shame, anxiety, and depression that can take hold. In the case of trauma, its impact can be profound, affecting various aspects of our lives.
(226) 641-6597 View (226) 641-6597
Photo of Shailagh (Shaiden) Keaney, HBA, MSW, RSW, SEP, Registered Social Worker
Shailagh (Shaiden) Keaney
Registered Social Worker, HBA, MSW, RSW, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Erin, ON N0B
I’m here for the parents who aren't ready to give up hope, and for the teens and young adults who are clinging to life. Whether because of trauma, of neurodivergence (ADHD/ADD) or the need for a more gender-affirming world, life has been rocky. It’s been difficult to connect, sleep has been elusive, panic has been setting in and the future seems sort of bleak. At least that’s how it’s been, at least for right now. So you're looking for a therapist who gets it: your gender identity, your life experience and your inner knowing matter.
I’m here for the parents who aren't ready to give up hope, and for the teens and young adults who are clinging to life. Whether because of trauma, of neurodivergence (ADHD/ADD) or the need for a more gender-affirming world, life has been rocky. It’s been difficult to connect, sleep has been elusive, panic has been setting in and the future seems sort of bleak. At least that’s how it’s been, at least for right now. So you're looking for a therapist who gets it: your gender identity, your life experience and your inner knowing matter.
(289) 301-9689 View (289) 301-9689
Photo of Lindsay Ryan, MACP, BA Hons, Registered Psychotherapist
Lindsay Ryan
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BA Hons
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N0B
Are you struggling with the demands of life? Do you have a low mood, or big shifts in your mood? Do you find you are very critical of yourself but find compassion for others? Do you often feel misunderstood? I can help you explore these experiences and co-create meaning and solutions that suit you. I am also now providing support for couples in conflict and have a particular focus on ADHD-impacted relationships. You don't have to be in crisis to seek help. We can start now!
Are you struggling with the demands of life? Do you have a low mood, or big shifts in your mood? Do you find you are very critical of yourself but find compassion for others? Do you often feel misunderstood? I can help you explore these experiences and co-create meaning and solutions that suit you. I am also now providing support for couples in conflict and have a particular focus on ADHD-impacted relationships. You don't have to be in crisis to seek help. We can start now!
(289) 271-1983 View (289) 271-1983
Photo of Jeffi Farquharson, RP, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jeffi Farquharson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N0B  (Online Only)
If you are dealing with the fallout of having been betrayed or violated by an important person or institution in your life, therapy can help you make sense of it all and begin to find healing. Life experiences like this can leave you feeling overwhelmed and questioning everything you thought you knew about yourself and the world. You might even wonder if anything can really help. I support people who are working through anxiety, burnout, ADHD, grief, trauma, OCD, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, religious abuse, dissociation, interpersonal violence, and more. People of all genders, sexualities, and abilities are warmly welcomed.
If you are dealing with the fallout of having been betrayed or violated by an important person or institution in your life, therapy can help you make sense of it all and begin to find healing. Life experiences like this can leave you feeling overwhelmed and questioning everything you thought you knew about yourself and the world. You might even wonder if anything can really help. I support people who are working through anxiety, burnout, ADHD, grief, trauma, OCD, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, religious abuse, dissociation, interpersonal violence, and more. People of all genders, sexualities, and abilities are warmly welcomed.
(548) 490-5008 View (548) 490-5008
Photo of Samantha Turner, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Samantha Turner
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N0B
Waitlist for new clients
Swinging between overwhelm and numb/flat? Stuck in patterns that you wish you could change but continue to repeat despite effort? Maybe your past continues to replay in your present? Maybe you feel unsafe or on edge all the time? Experienced a traumatic event or major life transition that has thrown you off kilter? Or just at a loss of what to do next?
Swinging between overwhelm and numb/flat? Stuck in patterns that you wish you could change but continue to repeat despite effort? Maybe your past continues to replay in your present? Maybe you feel unsafe or on edge all the time? Experienced a traumatic event or major life transition that has thrown you off kilter? Or just at a loss of what to do next?
(226) 887-8370 View (226) 887-8370
Photo of Krista Faw, MACP, SDS, Registered Psychotherapist
Krista Faw
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, SDS
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N0B  (Online Only)
Have you ever experienced a conflict between the values you grew up with and those you are growing toward? Have you struggled to have meaningful relationships? Are you troubled by anxiety or depression? Have you wrestled to understand why things impact you? Let’s work together so you can find answers, achieve your goals, and find relief. I am committed to authenticity, empathy, and non-judgment, and provide you with a safe environment to bring up complex topics.
Have you ever experienced a conflict between the values you grew up with and those you are growing toward? Have you struggled to have meaningful relationships? Are you troubled by anxiety or depression? Have you wrestled to understand why things impact you? Let’s work together so you can find answers, achieve your goals, and find relief. I am committed to authenticity, empathy, and non-judgment, and provide you with a safe environment to bring up complex topics.
(548) 490-3739 View (548) 490-3739
Photo of Darion Brenner, MA, RP, CRPO, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Darion Brenner
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CRPO, OAMHP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N0B
I work with teens, adults, and couples experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia, low self-esteem, burnout, life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
Currently accepting new in-person and virtual clients! Life is a journey that no one should walk alone. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, emotionally or physically exhausted, hurt, or isolated, I am here to walk with you. I strive to foster a compassionate, warm, and non-judgemental atmosphere for you to explore your current challenges. Together, we will identify your goals, learn your strengths, and develop an individualized treatment plan that feels good to you. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to counselling, which is why I use a client-centred, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach to therapy.
I work with teens, adults, and couples experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia, low self-esteem, burnout, life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
Currently accepting new in-person and virtual clients! Life is a journey that no one should walk alone. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, emotionally or physically exhausted, hurt, or isolated, I am here to walk with you. I strive to foster a compassionate, warm, and non-judgemental atmosphere for you to explore your current challenges. Together, we will identify your goals, learn your strengths, and develop an individualized treatment plan that feels good to you. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to counselling, which is why I use a client-centred, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach to therapy.
(226) 455-4091 View (226) 455-4091
Photo of Janine Davies, BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Janine Davies
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ayr, ON N0B
Life is challenging whether it be as a post-secondary student transitioning to adult life, parents struggling with balancing home and work-life, or someone struggling with day-to-day mental health pressures.
I believe everyone is the expert in their own life, they may just need some help to navigate life's challenges. A strong therapeutic relationship is the key to clients meeting their goals, and I strive to create a space where pre-teens to adults feel safe to talk, share and explore challenges they are facing. I value collaboration and tailor treatment to each individual/ family/ relationship, and I utilize a number of evidence-based techniques to help clients work through obstacles, develop healthy coping habits, and flourish in their life.
Life is challenging whether it be as a post-secondary student transitioning to adult life, parents struggling with balancing home and work-life, or someone struggling with day-to-day mental health pressures.
I believe everyone is the expert in their own life, they may just need some help to navigate life's challenges. A strong therapeutic relationship is the key to clients meeting their goals, and I strive to create a space where pre-teens to adults feel safe to talk, share and explore challenges they are facing. I value collaboration and tailor treatment to each individual/ family/ relationship, and I utilize a number of evidence-based techniques to help clients work through obstacles, develop healthy coping habits, and flourish in their life.
(365) 661-4409 View (365) 661-4409
Photo of Elizabeth Granby, RP-Q, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Elizabeth Granby
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arkell, ON N0B
I can help clients with various different life challenges. I have a background in disability support. I have a sibling with autism and I am his primary support. I have worked in the field of autism support for the past 13 years. I have insight into caregiver burnout and stress. I am also able to support with anxiety, depression, work-life balance, social skills and interpersonal effectiveness. I have a personal connection to bariatric surgery and disordered eating and would love to help others going through the same journey. I can help with managing major life changes and challenges. I love to help people reach their personal goals.
I can help clients with various different life challenges. I have a background in disability support. I have a sibling with autism and I am his primary support. I have worked in the field of autism support for the past 13 years. I have insight into caregiver burnout and stress. I am also able to support with anxiety, depression, work-life balance, social skills and interpersonal effectiveness. I have a personal connection to bariatric surgery and disordered eating and would love to help others going through the same journey. I can help with managing major life changes and challenges. I love to help people reach their personal goals.
(226) 799-0451 View (226) 799-0451
Photo of Janine Davies, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Janine Davies
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ayr, ON N0B
You are the expert in you, I’m here to help you explore yourself deeper - maybe to make connections you have not been able to. Clients from ages 12 to 100 will find space with me which is collaborative, individualized, nonjudgmental, and genuine. I work with individuals who may be struggling with mental health issues, relationships, trauma, etc., couples/relationships in need of repair, who want to ensure they are planning a healthy future together, who may be struggling to reconnect, or who want to ensure longevity for the relationship. If you are looking for only a few sessions or a longer-term connection, I can accommodate.
You are the expert in you, I’m here to help you explore yourself deeper - maybe to make connections you have not been able to. Clients from ages 12 to 100 will find space with me which is collaborative, individualized, nonjudgmental, and genuine. I work with individuals who may be struggling with mental health issues, relationships, trauma, etc., couples/relationships in need of repair, who want to ensure they are planning a healthy future together, who may be struggling to reconnect, or who want to ensure longevity for the relationship. If you are looking for only a few sessions or a longer-term connection, I can accommodate.
(226) 702-8412 View (226) 702-8412
Photo of Danielle Kast, MA, RPQ, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Danielle Kast
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RPQ
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N0B
Are you struggling with challenges related to body image, feeling dissatisfied with your appearance and constantly comparing yourself to others? Do you find it difficult to move forward after a breakup, experiencing workplace stress, or grappling with anxiety? I specialize in supporting individuals like you as you navigate these complex issues and cultivate a greater sense of confidence and self-acceptance. Whether you're facing body image concerns, struggling to cope with the aftermath of a breakup, feeling overwhelmed by workplace stress, or battling anxiety, know that you're not alone.
Are you struggling with challenges related to body image, feeling dissatisfied with your appearance and constantly comparing yourself to others? Do you find it difficult to move forward after a breakup, experiencing workplace stress, or grappling with anxiety? I specialize in supporting individuals like you as you navigate these complex issues and cultivate a greater sense of confidence and self-acceptance. Whether you're facing body image concerns, struggling to cope with the aftermath of a breakup, feeling overwhelmed by workplace stress, or battling anxiety, know that you're not alone.
(548) 457-1325 View (548) 457-1325
Photo of Gisele Hauser, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Gisele Hauser
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N0B
Many years of experience working with Trauma, Sleeping Problems, Anxiety, Emotional Eating, Concurrent Disorders and/or Severe Mental Health clients. I am a Clinician trained internationally with a different approach that seeks your Freedom, not your adjustment, your Expression of emotions, not controlling them. If nothing has worked so far for you to feel happy, give me a call.
Many years of experience working with Trauma, Sleeping Problems, Anxiety, Emotional Eating, Concurrent Disorders and/or Severe Mental Health clients. I am a Clinician trained internationally with a different approach that seeks your Freedom, not your adjustment, your Expression of emotions, not controlling them. If nothing has worked so far for you to feel happy, give me a call.
(548) 482-5012 View (548) 482-5012
Photo of Fema Jacob - Fema Jacob @ Psychotherapy for You, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Fema Jacob @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N0B  (Online Only)
I want to understand the intricate details of your life that make you uniquely you and would be honoured to facilitate the process of your self discovery and healing. I love working with individuals in all walks of life including but not limited to individuals experiencing anxiety, panic and/or anxiety attacks, phobias, issues controlling anger, individuals wanting to improve self-esteem, those suffering from grief and loss of relationships, addictions, as well as those individuals looking for support with general life stressors.
I want to understand the intricate details of your life that make you uniquely you and would be honoured to facilitate the process of your self discovery and healing. I love working with individuals in all walks of life including but not limited to individuals experiencing anxiety, panic and/or anxiety attacks, phobias, issues controlling anger, individuals wanting to improve self-esteem, those suffering from grief and loss of relationships, addictions, as well as those individuals looking for support with general life stressors.
(289) 312-3208 View (289) 312-3208
Photo of Agnieszka Wolska, RSW, CHT, RMFT, MSW, BSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Agnieszka Wolska
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, CHT, RMFT, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N0B
We all carry multiple stories about our selves, our lives, and our experiences. There are parts in our stories that are sometimes hidden from our awareness. It is in the calm noticing, re-discovery, and re-telling of our stories that we can find and connect with parts of ourselves that may need healing, and also parts of ourselves that are insightful, strong, and brilliant even in the midst of hardship and darkness. Through facilitating, witnessing, and holding space together, we can engage in our personal work of healing. I look forward to connecting with you.
We all carry multiple stories about our selves, our lives, and our experiences. There are parts in our stories that are sometimes hidden from our awareness. It is in the calm noticing, re-discovery, and re-telling of our stories that we can find and connect with parts of ourselves that may need healing, and also parts of ourselves that are insightful, strong, and brilliant even in the midst of hardship and darkness. Through facilitating, witnessing, and holding space together, we can engage in our personal work of healing. I look forward to connecting with you.
(587) 600-1131 View (587) 600-1131
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.