LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Kingston, ON

Photo of Shaunacy King - Sex & Couples Therapy Ontario | Shaunacy King, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, MPhil
Sex & Couples Therapy Ontario | Shaunacy King
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, MPhil
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
We're knowledgeable and affirming of LGBTQ+, poly/ENM, and kink identities.
You are struggling with sexuality, gender, or intimacy issues, and want to figure them out, either on your own or with your partner/partners. Perhaps you want to understand or stop your compulsive sexual behavior. Maybe you want to learn how to feel in control of your sex life. There may be aspects of your gender identity that you want to explore, or maybe you need support through social or medical transition. Maybe you want to improve communication with your partner(s), break ineffective patterns, and develop better ones. Whether you're struggling with libido, porn, trouble with arousal or orgasm, or painful sex, we can help.
We're knowledgeable and affirming of LGBTQ+, poly/ENM, and kink identities.
You are struggling with sexuality, gender, or intimacy issues, and want to figure them out, either on your own or with your partner/partners. Perhaps you want to understand or stop your compulsive sexual behavior. Maybe you want to learn how to feel in control of your sex life. There may be aspects of your gender identity that you want to explore, or maybe you need support through social or medical transition. Maybe you want to improve communication with your partner(s), break ineffective patterns, and develop better ones. Whether you're struggling with libido, porn, trouble with arousal or orgasm, or painful sex, we can help.
(343) 321-5410 View (343) 321-5410
Photo of Tracey Taylor, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Tracey Taylor
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
I welcome all orientations, including queer and gender diverse clients.
Therapy can be a helpful and deeply satisfying process. Whether you want to improve your mental health, navigate a personal challenge or create a greater sense of meaning in your life, I'm here to walk along side you towards whatever repair or change you are seeking. I see psychotherapy as a process of discovery, learning, growth and healing. I take a gentle approach, fostering insight, self-compassion, and a deeper understanding of your thoughts and emotions. I work with adults and teenagers.
I welcome all orientations, including queer and gender diverse clients.
Therapy can be a helpful and deeply satisfying process. Whether you want to improve your mental health, navigate a personal challenge or create a greater sense of meaning in your life, I'm here to walk along side you towards whatever repair or change you are seeking. I see psychotherapy as a process of discovery, learning, growth and healing. I take a gentle approach, fostering insight, self-compassion, and a deeper understanding of your thoughts and emotions. I work with adults and teenagers.
(613) 887-8151 View (613) 887-8151
Photo of Jennifer Lane, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Jennifer Lane
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
6 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
As a queer woman myself, I am passionate about working with other queer individuals to help them explore and discover who they are, and how they want to express themselves in the world.
I work primarily with the queer community, and specifically with transgender folks navigating their identity and the transition process. I have a wealth of experience with other populations and difficulties as well, including OCD, anxiety, workplace issues, interpersonal issues, life transitions, and more.
As a queer woman myself, I am passionate about working with other queer individuals to help them explore and discover who they are, and how they want to express themselves in the world.
I work primarily with the queer community, and specifically with transgender folks navigating their identity and the transition process. I have a wealth of experience with other populations and difficulties as well, including OCD, anxiety, workplace issues, interpersonal issues, life transitions, and more.
(226) 786-0867 View (226) 786-0867
Photo of Selena Augustine Selena Augustine - Selena Augustine | ADHD | Anxiety | LGBTQ+, Pre-Licensed Professional, RP(Q), Intern
Selena Augustine | ADHD | Anxiety | LGBTQ+
Pre-Licensed Professional, RP(Q), Intern
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I get it - as a therapist with ADHD myself who is also a member of the LGBTQ community, I truly understand what it's like to feel like you just can't catch a break.
Are you in your 20's or 30's with ADHD, anxiety and/or depression? Do you have a hard time saying no, regulating big emotions, or saying what you mean? You're exhausted from putting on a mask and faking it just to get through each day, only to collapse into doom scrolling until you fall asleep at night. You have a hard time making decisions, and feel like your body is stuck in fight-or-flight. You've tried all the things - exercise, meditation, affirmations, daily planners - but nothing seems to help. It's starting to impact your most important relationships - be it romantically, with family, friends, school or work.
I get it - as a therapist with ADHD myself who is also a member of the LGBTQ community, I truly understand what it's like to feel like you just can't catch a break.
Are you in your 20's or 30's with ADHD, anxiety and/or depression? Do you have a hard time saying no, regulating big emotions, or saying what you mean? You're exhausted from putting on a mask and faking it just to get through each day, only to collapse into doom scrolling until you fall asleep at night. You have a hard time making decisions, and feel like your body is stuck in fight-or-flight. You've tried all the things - exercise, meditation, affirmations, daily planners - but nothing seems to help. It's starting to impact your most important relationships - be it romantically, with family, friends, school or work.
(647) 800-1184 View (647) 800-1184
Photo of Jennifer Gould, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Jennifer Gould
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My practice is culturally sensitive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, and anti-ableist.
Accepting NEW clients! I offer therapy to children, youth & adults of diverse backgrounds to provide support with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, self-esteem issues, emotional dysregulation, executive functioning, chronic illness, identity exploration, end of life care & more. I’m passionate about helping clients overcome life stressors/ challenges, strengthen existing coping strategies & learn new practical skills to make sustainable change. I strive to provide an open, non- judgmental space for clients to explore and work through their treatment goals while ensuring safety & comfort.
My practice is culturally sensitive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, and anti-ableist.
Accepting NEW clients! I offer therapy to children, youth & adults of diverse backgrounds to provide support with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, self-esteem issues, emotional dysregulation, executive functioning, chronic illness, identity exploration, end of life care & more. I’m passionate about helping clients overcome life stressors/ challenges, strengthen existing coping strategies & learn new practical skills to make sustainable change. I strive to provide an open, non- judgmental space for clients to explore and work through their treatment goals while ensuring safety & comfort.
(249) 209-5140 View (249) 209-5140
Photo of Heather Kent - At Healing Path Therapy—PTSD•Relationships•2SLGTBQ, Registered Psychotherapist, MC, RP, CCC
At Healing Path Therapy—PTSD•Relationships•2SLGTBQ
Registered Psychotherapist, MC, RP, CCC
3 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
Maybe you’ve Googled things like: therapist/therapy group near me, therapy for depression, anxiety, intimacy, chronic pain, narcissistic abuse, personality disorders, grief, couples counseling, 2SLGBTQ+ friendly therapists, queer or Muslim therapist.
We provide judgment-free emotional safety and healing for individuals, couples, and families specializing in abusive relationships, sexual issues, queer & marginalized support, cross-cultural relationships, grief, chronic pain, transgender & gender-expansive support, and therapy using ASL. Our guiding question is “Does this make sense for you and your life?"
Maybe you’ve Googled things like: therapist/therapy group near me, therapy for depression, anxiety, intimacy, chronic pain, narcissistic abuse, personality disorders, grief, couples counseling, 2SLGBTQ+ friendly therapists, queer or Muslim therapist.
We provide judgment-free emotional safety and healing for individuals, couples, and families specializing in abusive relationships, sexual issues, queer & marginalized support, cross-cultural relationships, grief, chronic pain, transgender & gender-expansive support, and therapy using ASL. Our guiding question is “Does this make sense for you and your life?"
(289) 272-9184 View (289) 272-9184
Photo of Jane van de Ven - Caring Heart Wellness Therapy Services, RN, MScN, CNP/CPN
Caring Heart Wellness Therapy Services
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or depression from work/life burnout, chronic illness (e.g., addiction, cancer, pain), toxic relationships or intimate partner violence, traumatic pregnancy, labour and delivery or postpartum, autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), identifying as two-spirited, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (2SLGBTQ+), or having symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from careers such as teaching, military, corrections, and healthcare?
You deserve to have a caring and empathetic therapist enabling recovery. I provide a safe and culturally sensitive space and have a holistic and evidence-based approach with lived-experience, 31 years of nursing experience, and education to help navigate you through your wellness journey. We will explore and work through where you are mentally "stuck".
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or depression from work/life burnout, chronic illness (e.g., addiction, cancer, pain), toxic relationships or intimate partner violence, traumatic pregnancy, labour and delivery or postpartum, autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), identifying as two-spirited, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (2SLGBTQ+), or having symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from careers such as teaching, military, corrections, and healthcare?
You deserve to have a caring and empathetic therapist enabling recovery. I provide a safe and culturally sensitive space and have a holistic and evidence-based approach with lived-experience, 31 years of nursing experience, and education to help navigate you through your wellness journey. We will explore and work through where you are mentally "stuck".
(343) 801-1367 View (343) 801-1367
Photo of Nina Halstead, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Nina Halstead
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Kingston, ON K7M
Waitlist for new clients
I have 7 years' experience working in mental health, including working with first responders, queer folks, and survivors of various kinds of trauma.
Hi! I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a primary focus in trauma. If you're struggling to cope with your trauma and don't know what to do, I'm here to help. We all respond to trauma differently, which can sometimes make us question whether what we're experiencing is "normal" or ok. Symptoms can be frightening and confusing and can affect all areas of our lives, including self-esteem, relationships, mood, and more. My aim is to help you understand how trauma affects your brain and body, build healthy coping skills, and to support you in your journey toward healing, whatever that looks like for you.
I have 7 years' experience working in mental health, including working with first responders, queer folks, and survivors of various kinds of trauma.
Hi! I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a primary focus in trauma. If you're struggling to cope with your trauma and don't know what to do, I'm here to help. We all respond to trauma differently, which can sometimes make us question whether what we're experiencing is "normal" or ok. Symptoms can be frightening and confusing and can affect all areas of our lives, including self-esteem, relationships, mood, and more. My aim is to help you understand how trauma affects your brain and body, build healthy coping skills, and to support you in your journey toward healing, whatever that looks like for you.
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Photo of Sara Beck, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Sara Beck
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Kingston, ON K7K
I am an LGBTQ+ ally, and I welcome members of all faiths/spiritual beliefs, and neurodivergent people.
My practice draws on elements of CBT, ACT, DBT, narrative therapy, emotion-focussed therapy, and solution focussed brief therapy. It is also informed by more than 15 years’ experience as a college instructor, where I taught verbal, non-verbal, and written communication, conflict de-escalation, and public speaking/presentation skills.
I am an LGBTQ+ ally, and I welcome members of all faiths/spiritual beliefs, and neurodivergent people.
My practice draws on elements of CBT, ACT, DBT, narrative therapy, emotion-focussed therapy, and solution focussed brief therapy. It is also informed by more than 15 years’ experience as a college instructor, where I taught verbal, non-verbal, and written communication, conflict de-escalation, and public speaking/presentation skills.
(343) 309-9020 View (343) 309-9020
Photo of Kiera Alice McDonald, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Kiera Alice McDonald
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7M
In a safe, empathic, and queer-affirming space to explore life's challenges, I combine my lived experience with a holistic and integrative approach rooted in DBT and ACT.
Now accepting new clients with evening availability! The transition to adulthood is a challenging time. Whether it comes to navigating new relationships, keeping up with work and school demands, or continuing to build a deeper sense of self-awareness, this period involves a LOT of emotional labour. Add into the mix the expectations that come with being a high-performance individual - whether in sports, academics, the arts, or elsewhere - and it can all start to feel like too much. You may feel overwhelmed and exhausted, stressing about the field in which you once excelled and felt most like yourself.
In a safe, empathic, and queer-affirming space to explore life's challenges, I combine my lived experience with a holistic and integrative approach rooted in DBT and ACT.
Now accepting new clients with evening availability! The transition to adulthood is a challenging time. Whether it comes to navigating new relationships, keeping up with work and school demands, or continuing to build a deeper sense of self-awareness, this period involves a LOT of emotional labour. Add into the mix the expectations that come with being a high-performance individual - whether in sports, academics, the arts, or elsewhere - and it can all start to feel like too much. You may feel overwhelmed and exhausted, stressing about the field in which you once excelled and felt most like yourself.
(613) 702-8156 x102 View (613) 702-8156 x102
Photo of Amanda Lane, Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Amanda Lane
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have also completed training related to transgender health, counseling strategies for trauma, and bereaved families and individuals.
Hi there and welcome to my page! I have been working in social services for 8 years, specializing in gender care for 3 of those years. I am skilled at supporting teens and adults navigate gender identity and challenges related to medical and social transitions. I have also worked in community mental health, outpatient services, within shelter systems, with women in conflict with the law and those experiencing grief. Many individuals I have worked with have struggled with intense overwhelming emotions and a feeling of being 'stuck'.
I have also completed training related to transgender health, counseling strategies for trauma, and bereaved families and individuals.
Hi there and welcome to my page! I have been working in social services for 8 years, specializing in gender care for 3 of those years. I am skilled at supporting teens and adults navigate gender identity and challenges related to medical and social transitions. I have also worked in community mental health, outpatient services, within shelter systems, with women in conflict with the law and those experiencing grief. Many individuals I have worked with have struggled with intense overwhelming emotions and a feeling of being 'stuck'.
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Photo of David Nesrallah, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
David Nesrallah
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7M
I work with clients recovering from acute or complex trauma, including childhood abuse and neglect, and specialize in working with fellow members of the queer community.
Experiences in early relationships create a blueprint that informs our ability to build & enjoy healthy relationships in adulthood. Processing the impact of both our family of origin and larger social systems can help unlock our innate capacity to heal and build healthy, integrated, and authentic relationships – both with others and with ourselves.
I work with clients recovering from acute or complex trauma, including childhood abuse and neglect, and specialize in working with fellow members of the queer community.
Experiences in early relationships create a blueprint that informs our ability to build & enjoy healthy relationships in adulthood. Processing the impact of both our family of origin and larger social systems can help unlock our innate capacity to heal and build healthy, integrated, and authentic relationships – both with others and with ourselves.
(343) 308-9412 View (343) 308-9412
Photo of Shannon Collins, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Shannon Collins
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
The areas around which I have experience include depression, anxiety, compassion fatigue, trauma, relationship violence, grief, issues around being queer, questioning your sexual orientation and transitioning genders, immigrant and refugee settlement, and culture shock.
My other areas of experience include research on the experiences of LGBTQ caregivers, Compassion fatigue, as well as research and trauma work with refugees and immigrants. I also have experience writing psychosocial assessments for refugee claimants.
The areas around which I have experience include depression, anxiety, compassion fatigue, trauma, relationship violence, grief, issues around being queer, questioning your sexual orientation and transitioning genders, immigrant and refugee settlement, and culture shock.
My other areas of experience include research on the experiences of LGBTQ caregivers, Compassion fatigue, as well as research and trauma work with refugees and immigrants. I also have experience writing psychosocial assessments for refugee claimants.
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Photo of Robin Salmon, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BSW, BA
Robin Salmon
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BSW, BA
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7P
It is my passion to offer a safe, supportive, affirming space for folks who are queer and/or neurodiverse
Do you ever find yourself feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, like you're using every ounce of your energy just to keep up with life? Life can be challenging at times, especially for those of us who might be neurodivergent. The good news is you're not alone, I'm here with you, and you have options!
It is my passion to offer a safe, supportive, affirming space for folks who are queer and/or neurodiverse
Do you ever find yourself feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, like you're using every ounce of your energy just to keep up with life? Life can be challenging at times, especially for those of us who might be neurodivergent. The good news is you're not alone, I'm here with you, and you have options!
(343) 341-5727 View (343) 341-5727
Photo of Nicole Corbett - Ensemble Counselling (Services Bilingues), Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Ensemble Counselling (Services Bilingues)
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
We are allies of the LGBTQ+ community.
We believe in education and training and accessible services. As a result, we often have interns that will offer reduced fees. We offer virtual and in-person sessions (in Kingston). We believe in quality mental health services and fully understand regional differences and the nuances of culture. We have advanced training in CBT, DBT, EFT & EMDR.
We are allies of the LGBTQ+ community.
We believe in education and training and accessible services. As a result, we often have interns that will offer reduced fees. We offer virtual and in-person sessions (in Kingston). We believe in quality mental health services and fully understand regional differences and the nuances of culture. We have advanced training in CBT, DBT, EFT & EMDR.
(343) 655-3644 View (343) 655-3644
Photo of Lisa Steacy, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Lisa Steacy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Kingston, ON K7L
I am an ally of the LGBTQ community; worked primarily with youth who are starting their journey of self discovery.
I work from a place that values and acknowledges the need for connection and right relationship in all domains of life, including the therapeutic relationship. The desire to feel heard, understood, known and safe is an inherent need we all desire and I aspire to create this dynamic in all my therapeutic working relationships. I am strength-based clinician, drawing on each individual unique gifts, talents and experiences. I understand and feel privileged to witness the triumph over one's challenges through this therapeutic process. I am a RP, with 30 years in Mental Health, working with children, youth, adults, couples and families.
I am an ally of the LGBTQ community; worked primarily with youth who are starting their journey of self discovery.
I work from a place that values and acknowledges the need for connection and right relationship in all domains of life, including the therapeutic relationship. The desire to feel heard, understood, known and safe is an inherent need we all desire and I aspire to create this dynamic in all my therapeutic working relationships. I am strength-based clinician, drawing on each individual unique gifts, talents and experiences. I understand and feel privileged to witness the triumph over one's challenges through this therapeutic process. I am a RP, with 30 years in Mental Health, working with children, youth, adults, couples and families.
(343) 309-5942 View (343) 309-5942
Photo of Zahra Nafar - YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling , Registered Psychotherapist, RP
YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
We also offer queer-specialized therapy for individuals, couples, and families.
YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling is a specialized mental health clinic that provides evidence-based, compassionate, and affordable mental health services across Ontario. Our highly skilled psychotherapists have been extensively trained to treat a variety of mental illnesses with interventions that are personalized to each client’s needs, including psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Interventions to individuals, couples, and families.
We also offer queer-specialized therapy for individuals, couples, and families.
YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling is a specialized mental health clinic that provides evidence-based, compassionate, and affordable mental health services across Ontario. Our highly skilled psychotherapists have been extensively trained to treat a variety of mental illnesses with interventions that are personalized to each client’s needs, including psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Interventions to individuals, couples, and families.
(343) 304-6238 View (343) 304-6238
Photo of Maureen Bornbaum, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, SEP
Maureen Bornbaum
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, SEP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a queer therapist, I also work with 2SLGBTQIa+ individuals to navigate challenges related to living in a cis and heteronormative dominant world.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches depending on a client's needs and goals. These include Somatic Experiencing therapy, parts work, compassion focused therapy, and EMDR, to help clients in the areas that they feel stuck. Further, I focus on working from an anti-oppressive, anti-colonial, sex-positive and neurodivergent affirming foundation.
As a queer therapist, I also work with 2SLGBTQIa+ individuals to navigate challenges related to living in a cis and heteronormative dominant world.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches depending on a client's needs and goals. These include Somatic Experiencing therapy, parts work, compassion focused therapy, and EMDR, to help clients in the areas that they feel stuck. Further, I focus on working from an anti-oppressive, anti-colonial, sex-positive and neurodivergent affirming foundation.
(289) 274-2300 View (289) 274-2300
Photo of Nadya Bissonnette, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Nadya Bissonnette
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Serves Area
As an LGBTQ+ therapist, it is also important for me to support individuals in the community.
Currently accepting new clients (FR/EN)! As a dedicated and compassionate psychotherapist, I am committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges, finding balance in their lives, and achieve emotional well-being. With an open mind, I work alongside my clients to explore emotional challenges, build resilience, and cultivate deeper self-awareness. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, where we work together to uncover strengths and break through barriers.
As an LGBTQ+ therapist, it is also important for me to support individuals in the community.
Currently accepting new clients (FR/EN)! As a dedicated and compassionate psychotherapist, I am committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges, finding balance in their lives, and achieve emotional well-being. With an open mind, I work alongside my clients to explore emotional challenges, build resilience, and cultivate deeper self-awareness. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, where we work together to uncover strengths and break through barriers.
(343) 312-5301 View (343) 312-5301
Photo of Rachel Brennan - Eras Therapy & Wellness | Anxiety Trauma ADHD, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA, MSW
Eras Therapy & Wellness | Anxiety Trauma ADHD
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA, MSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
All of our therapists are trauma informed, culturally competent, neurodivergent informed, and Queer friendly.
Accepting NEW clients! Is anxiety, stress, trauma, ADHD, or insecurity controlling your life? At Eras Therapy and Wellness, we know life’s challenges can feel overwhelming—if you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or not quite yourself, we’re here to help. Whether you’re navigating life's ups and downs, processing past experiences, or wanting tools to better manage your emotions, we’re committed to walking along side you in this journey. Our compassionate team of therapists is dedicated to supporting kids, teens, adults, and couples to feel less stressed, less depressed, more in control of their lives, and hopeful about the future.
All of our therapists are trauma informed, culturally competent, neurodivergent informed, and Queer friendly.
Accepting NEW clients! Is anxiety, stress, trauma, ADHD, or insecurity controlling your life? At Eras Therapy and Wellness, we know life’s challenges can feel overwhelming—if you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or not quite yourself, we’re here to help. Whether you’re navigating life's ups and downs, processing past experiences, or wanting tools to better manage your emotions, we’re committed to walking along side you in this journey. Our compassionate team of therapists is dedicated to supporting kids, teens, adults, and couples to feel less stressed, less depressed, more in control of their lives, and hopeful about the future.
(289) 778-3302 View (289) 778-3302

See more therapy options for Kingston

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.