LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Perth, ON

Photo of Tory Baker-Reed, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Tory Baker-Reed
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Perth, ON K7H
Specialties: Certified EMDR Counsellor, Psychodrama, Psychodramatic Bodywork (emotion release work), and supporting the supporting the 2S LGBTQI+ and poly communities.
I strive to create effective personalized healing options for each client and work from a foundation of inclusion, compassion and kindness. Offering a range of healing modalities including EMDR, narrative therapy, psychodrama and emotion release work. As a registered social worker/psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) I welcome clients with a wide variety of life experiences, trauma and personal struggles. Please note the quickest way to connect with me, and book a free 15-minute meet and greet session, is to access my website.
Specialties: Certified EMDR Counsellor, Psychodrama, Psychodramatic Bodywork (emotion release work), and supporting the supporting the 2S LGBTQI+ and poly communities.
I strive to create effective personalized healing options for each client and work from a foundation of inclusion, compassion and kindness. Offering a range of healing modalities including EMDR, narrative therapy, psychodrama and emotion release work. As a registered social worker/psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) I welcome clients with a wide variety of life experiences, trauma and personal struggles. Please note the quickest way to connect with me, and book a free 15-minute meet and greet session, is to access my website.
(343) 503-0835 View (343) 503-0835
Photo of Si Yeung Li, CCC, RDT, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Si Yeung Li
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), CCC, RDT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, ON K7H  (Online Only)
Are you facing issues of childhood and intergenerational trauma, bereavement, cross-cultural challenges, depression, anxiety, life stage transitions, and relationship & intimacy issues? Do you want to be less affected by these issues and the overwhelming emotions? Are you looking for a therapist with compassion and cross-cultural awareness to accompany you on the therapeutic journey?
Are you facing issues of childhood and intergenerational trauma, bereavement, cross-cultural challenges, depression, anxiety, life stage transitions, and relationship & intimacy issues? Do you want to be less affected by these issues and the overwhelming emotions? Are you looking for a therapist with compassion and cross-cultural awareness to accompany you on the therapeutic journey?
(343) 321-7989 View (343) 321-7989
Photo of Veronica Felizardo, BA, MSW, RSW, DCP, (Cand), Registered Social Worker
Veronica Felizardo
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW, DCP, (Cand)
Verified Verified
Perth, ON K7H
Veronica Felizardo M.S.W., R.S.W. Doctor in Counselling & Psychotherapy (Cand.) is a Psychotherapist with experience in assessment, individual counselling and couples counselling for those who have a desire to change their current circumstances to lead a fulfilled life. She's a firm believer in the innate ability to overcome challenges by working with clients at the current place they find themselves in. Using a strengths-based approach, she inspires each person to realize their full potential. She is certified in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. She provides in-between session support via text and email.
Veronica Felizardo M.S.W., R.S.W. Doctor in Counselling & Psychotherapy (Cand.) is a Psychotherapist with experience in assessment, individual counselling and couples counselling for those who have a desire to change their current circumstances to lead a fulfilled life. She's a firm believer in the innate ability to overcome challenges by working with clients at the current place they find themselves in. Using a strengths-based approach, she inspires each person to realize their full potential. She is certified in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. She provides in-between session support via text and email.
(343) 800-5987 View (343) 800-5987
Photo of Eric Gilbert, RP, Q, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Eric Gilbert
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP, Q
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, ON K7H
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who is deeply rooted in the community. I volunteer as a coach and have had over 12 years experience working in Ottawa as a career firefighter. My goal is to be supportive and understanding, helping people grow by increasing self-compassion and challenging themselves to find solutions. I integrate several counselling theories and strategies and tailor my approaches to meet people’s individual needs. I am open to seeing anyone over 18 needing therapy, though with my experiences working as a firefighter I have a keen interest in supporting first responders
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who is deeply rooted in the community. I volunteer as a coach and have had over 12 years experience working in Ottawa as a career firefighter. My goal is to be supportive and understanding, helping people grow by increasing self-compassion and challenging themselves to find solutions. I integrate several counselling theories and strategies and tailor my approaches to meet people’s individual needs. I am open to seeing anyone over 18 needing therapy, though with my experiences working as a firefighter I have a keen interest in supporting first responders
(613) 801-6930 View (613) 801-6930
Photo of Deb McGuire, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Deb McGuire
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Perth, ON K7H
Deb is a Registered Social Worker, holding a Masters of Social Work, who practices Psychotherapy. She is a trained Trauma Specialist, though also uses integrated approaches in her work as both a Therapist and Clinical Supervisor. Deb supports adults, and young people. She has spent much of her career working with youth and young adults, as a teacher, coach, facilitator, psychotherapist and as a youth outreach worker. Deb also provides Clinical Supervision to regulated Mental Health Providers.
Deb is a Registered Social Worker, holding a Masters of Social Work, who practices Psychotherapy. She is a trained Trauma Specialist, though also uses integrated approaches in her work as both a Therapist and Clinical Supervisor. Deb supports adults, and young people. She has spent much of her career working with youth and young adults, as a teacher, coach, facilitator, psychotherapist and as a youth outreach worker. Deb also provides Clinical Supervision to regulated Mental Health Providers.
(343) 307-5186 View (343) 307-5186
Photo of Terrilee Kelford, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Terrilee Kelford
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, ON K7H
So many young people today are struggling with sleep, feeling sick and/or avoiding school, fighting with parents about seemingly simple routines or expectations, spending too much time on technology, are moody and/or irritable or hurting themselves? As a Registered Psychotherapist with 25+ years experience providing support to incredible young people, I can help. I provide caring and non-judgemental support to young people age 10-30 who are experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, sleep issues, bullying, anger, trauma, gender dysphoria, sexual identity, attachment, self-injury, addictions, ADHD and self-esteem etc.
So many young people today are struggling with sleep, feeling sick and/or avoiding school, fighting with parents about seemingly simple routines or expectations, spending too much time on technology, are moody and/or irritable or hurting themselves? As a Registered Psychotherapist with 25+ years experience providing support to incredible young people, I can help. I provide caring and non-judgemental support to young people age 10-30 who are experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, sleep issues, bullying, anger, trauma, gender dysphoria, sexual identity, attachment, self-injury, addictions, ADHD and self-esteem etc.
(613) 704-6109 View (613) 704-6109
Photo of Allison Tugwell, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Allison Tugwell
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
Perth, ON K7H  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Whether you’re struggling with a stressful situation or ongoing mental health concerns, these instances can make it difficult to see a way forward. They may lead you feeling overwhelmed, but with the guidance of a therapist, it becomes possible to discover a clearer path to navigate through them. In my practice, I focus on ensuring you feel safe, listened to and well supported. I take a gentle approach, making certain that we move at a comfortable pace and discuss the concerns that are important to you when you feel ready. My goal is to alleviate your distress, thereby helping you to address your concerns.
Accepting New Clients. Whether you’re struggling with a stressful situation or ongoing mental health concerns, these instances can make it difficult to see a way forward. They may lead you feeling overwhelmed, but with the guidance of a therapist, it becomes possible to discover a clearer path to navigate through them. In my practice, I focus on ensuring you feel safe, listened to and well supported. I take a gentle approach, making certain that we move at a comfortable pace and discuss the concerns that are important to you when you feel ready. My goal is to alleviate your distress, thereby helping you to address your concerns.
(613) 716-0857 View (613) 716-0857
Photo of Gerry Casey - Gerry Casey Consulting Inc., MSW, RSW, Counsellor
Gerry Casey Consulting Inc.
Counsellor, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Perth, ON K7H
Working in partnership with you, I strive to help in ways that are most aligned with your needs, goals and strengths.
Working in partnership with you, I strive to help in ways that are most aligned with your needs, goals and strengths.
(343) 453-1718 View (343) 453-1718
Photo of Beverley Gail Rice, MACP, RP, CTIRF  , CLSRF, Registered Psychotherapist
Beverley Gail Rice
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CTIRF , CLSRF
Verified Verified
Perth, ON K7H
Are you feeling stressed or sad? Have you experienced a trauma, a difficult event, loss of a loved one, or some one on the job, or are you having difficulties with a relationship? Would you like to have relief from your emotional pain? Resolve past traumas? Discharge life stress issues? Would you like to have stronger self esteem, more self confidence, and increased productivity and satisfaction in life? Richer more satisfying relationships?
Are you feeling stressed or sad? Have you experienced a trauma, a difficult event, loss of a loved one, or some one on the job, or are you having difficulties with a relationship? Would you like to have relief from your emotional pain? Resolve past traumas? Discharge life stress issues? Would you like to have stronger self esteem, more self confidence, and increased productivity and satisfaction in life? Richer more satisfying relationships?
(343) 312-8825 View (343) 312-8825

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sam Kosierb, MA, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Sam Kosierb
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merrickville, ON K0G
I offer therapy services to adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relational issues and trauma. I enjoy working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I offer therapy services to adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relational issues and trauma. I enjoy working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(613) 222-3157 View (613) 222-3157
Photo of Our Team - Centre for Mental & Psychological Health(CMAP), Psychiatrist
Centre for Mental & Psychological Health(CMAP)
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Kemptville, ON K0G
The Centre for Mental and Psychological Health has been established to bring international quality psychological treatments to our clients without compromise. We are a multidisciplinary team of Psychotherapists, Psychologists, Social Workers and Psychiatrists who offer assessment, diagnostic consultation, psychotherapy and wider psychosocial care services, including liaison with other healthcare professionals. We are committed to providing you with timely access to a range of evidence-based psychotherapies including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and others, as determined by your need. We also provide training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapies through our partner organization, Unified CBT Academy. (https://unifiedcbt.com/)
The Centre for Mental and Psychological Health has been established to bring international quality psychological treatments to our clients without compromise. We are a multidisciplinary team of Psychotherapists, Psychologists, Social Workers and Psychiatrists who offer assessment, diagnostic consultation, psychotherapy and wider psychosocial care services, including liaison with other healthcare professionals. We are committed to providing you with timely access to a range of evidence-based psychotherapies including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and others, as determined by your need. We also provide training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapies through our partner organization, Unified CBT Academy. (https://unifiedcbt.com/)
(613) 482-0133 View (613) 482-0133
The Wren Centre: Therapy for All Ages
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Lanark, ON K0G
Seeing a therapist is a great way to find clarity, strength, and even a new path toward a more peaceful life. At the Wren Centre, we offer therapy for children, families, and adults. We're here to support you, your child, or your entire family, every step of the way. We offer a compassionate, safe space for expressing, exploring and tuning in to the inner voice we all have.
Seeing a therapist is a great way to find clarity, strength, and even a new path toward a more peaceful life. At the Wren Centre, we offer therapy for children, families, and adults. We're here to support you, your child, or your entire family, every step of the way. We offer a compassionate, safe space for expressing, exploring and tuning in to the inner voice we all have.
(343) 307-6677 View (343) 307-6677
Photo of Natalie Carrière - The Lighthouse - Le Phare Kemptville, RPs, CCCs, MSW, Registered Psychotherapist
The Lighthouse - Le Phare Kemptville
Registered Psychotherapist, RPs, CCCs, MSW
Verified Verified
Merrickville, ON K0G
We offer therapy tailored to your individual needs and are offering an IFS Art Therapy Group for Women starting Fall 2024! Our clinicians’ specialty areas include first responders, military, trauma, LGBTQ2S+, relationships, life transitions, children, and couples/family therapy.
Accepting new clients! We offer counselling and psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, and youth who are dealing with mental health issues such as stress, relationships, communication, depression, anxiety disorders, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, self-knowledge, and self-esteem. We strive to increase the well-being of our communities by welcoming each client with warmth and compassion. Our goal is to work with clients to help improve their emotional, psychological and mental health and to thrive in their daily lives, careers and relationships. In-person sessions at our Kemptville location; virtually across Ontario.
We offer therapy tailored to your individual needs and are offering an IFS Art Therapy Group for Women starting Fall 2024! Our clinicians’ specialty areas include first responders, military, trauma, LGBTQ2S+, relationships, life transitions, children, and couples/family therapy.
Accepting new clients! We offer counselling and psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, and youth who are dealing with mental health issues such as stress, relationships, communication, depression, anxiety disorders, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, self-knowledge, and self-esteem. We strive to increase the well-being of our communities by welcoming each client with warmth and compassion. Our goal is to work with clients to help improve their emotional, psychological and mental health and to thrive in their daily lives, careers and relationships. In-person sessions at our Kemptville location; virtually across Ontario.
(343) 805-0198 View (343) 805-0198

Online Therapists

Photo of Rae Griffin-Carlson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rae Griffin-Carlson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2E
I am an Irish & Scottish, white, queer settler, currently residing on the unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg Nation.
My practice is grounded in a client-centered, trauma-informed, anti-racist, de-colonialist, anti-oppressive, 2S LGBTQ+ affirming, culturally humble approach, guided by narrative & feminist frameworks. My intention is to co-create a healing, empowering, and exploratory space that affirms all the parts that make you who you are (ie. gender, sexuality, race, culture, ancestry, family, community, spirituality, thoughts, feelings, and beliefs).
I am an Irish & Scottish, white, queer settler, currently residing on the unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg Nation.
My practice is grounded in a client-centered, trauma-informed, anti-racist, de-colonialist, anti-oppressive, 2S LGBTQ+ affirming, culturally humble approach, guided by narrative & feminist frameworks. My intention is to co-create a healing, empowering, and exploratory space that affirms all the parts that make you who you are (ie. gender, sexuality, race, culture, ancestry, family, community, spirituality, thoughts, feelings, and beliefs).
(343) 321-2294 View (343) 321-2294
Photo of Carla Condon Barton, MSW, RSW, MSc, Registered Social Worker
Carla Condon Barton
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
I am a Social Worker Psychotherapist with strong ties to community mental health, addictions and harm reduction. I work relationally with individuals, and those in partnership with others - incl. couples and poly dynamics. I am drawn to themes of: shame, sexuality, neurodiversities, grief, and impediments to connection; both to oneself and others. I am a queer/ bisexual genderfluid person, but you don't have to be. I am also a person who lives with a long-term invisible chronic illness. I am based in Newfoundland but got my start as a therapist Ontario and am now a registered to provide therapy with clients in both provinces.
I am a Social Worker Psychotherapist with strong ties to community mental health, addictions and harm reduction. I work relationally with individuals, and those in partnership with others - incl. couples and poly dynamics. I am drawn to themes of: shame, sexuality, neurodiversities, grief, and impediments to connection; both to oneself and others. I am a queer/ bisexual genderfluid person, but you don't have to be. I am also a person who lives with a long-term invisible chronic illness. I am based in Newfoundland but got my start as a therapist Ontario and am now a registered to provide therapy with clients in both provinces.
(709) 400-6694 View (709) 400-6694
Photo of Brad Garrison, MEd, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Brad Garrison
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Talking about sex, relationships, and mental health concerns can be vulnerable, challenging work that can lead to incredible transformations for individuals & relationships.
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.
Talking about sex, relationships, and mental health concerns can be vulnerable, challenging work that can lead to incredible transformations for individuals & relationships.
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 Heather Kent - At Healing Path Therapy—PTSD•Relationships•2SLGTBQ, MC, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
At Healing Path Therapy—PTSD•Relationships•2SLGTBQ
Registered Psychotherapist, MC, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
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.
Will the abuse ever stop? Will I always be in pain? Will I ever be good enough? Will I always feel this overwhelmed? Will I ever be in a loving relationship? Will I always feel paralyzed by my emotions? These worries are exhausting. 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, 2S LGBTQ+ friendly therapists, queer or Muslim therapist. The decision to reach out can come with a lot of emotions, especially if you’ve been let down in the past & you’re tired of feeling misunderstood or unseen.
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.
Will the abuse ever stop? Will I always be in pain? Will I ever be good enough? Will I always feel this overwhelmed? Will I ever be in a loving relationship? Will I always feel paralyzed by my emotions? These worries are exhausting. 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, 2S LGBTQ+ friendly therapists, queer or Muslim therapist. The decision to reach out can come with a lot of emotions, especially if you’ve been let down in the past & you’re tired of feeling misunderstood or unseen.
(289) 272-9184 View (289) 272-9184
Photo of Kurt Steeves, BA, SSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kurt Steeves
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
I offer coaching services for life transitions, working towards goals, and supporting organization, planning, and strategizing.
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.
I offer coaching services for life transitions, working towards goals, and supporting organization, planning, and strategizing.
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 Rainbow Counselling - LGBTQ+ therapy online, Rainbow Counselling, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
LGBTQ+ therapy online, Rainbow Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1K  (Online Only)
We also welcome parents of 2S LGBTQ+ children who seeking support in navigating their children's identities.
Are you looking for a therapist with expansive knowledge of 2S LGBTQ+ community? Looking for a therapist who you don't have to explain queer nuance to? We are a completely virtual 2S LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy clinic & welcome you! We value anti-oppressive and trauma informed approaches to therapy. We support the community & those in close relationships to the community & provide a space where you don't have to educate your therapist, and can just focus on getting mental health support! Our therapists specialize in topics including: ADHD, BPD, Autism, Polyamory, Relationships, Trauma, Infidelity, Betrayal, Exploring Sexuality & Gender.
We also welcome parents of 2S LGBTQ+ children who seeking support in navigating their children's identities.
Are you looking for a therapist with expansive knowledge of 2S LGBTQ+ community? Looking for a therapist who you don't have to explain queer nuance to? We are a completely virtual 2S LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy clinic & welcome you! We value anti-oppressive and trauma informed approaches to therapy. We support the community & those in close relationships to the community & provide a space where you don't have to educate your therapist, and can just focus on getting mental health support! Our therapists specialize in topics including: ADHD, BPD, Autism, Polyamory, Relationships, Trauma, Infidelity, Betrayal, Exploring Sexuality & Gender.
(437) 747-4664 View (437) 747-4664
Photo of Emily Ritenburg - Aroha Pride Counselling & Consulting, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
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 2S LGBTQ+ 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 2S LGBTQ+ community. Please note that all of our services are virtual.
(343) 321-1390 View (343) 321-1390

See more therapy options for Perth

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.