LGBTQ+ Therapists in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON

Photo of Samer Lazkani, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Samer Lazkani
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd, HBSc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M4Y
I completed an Honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of Toronto Scarborough in 2017 and a Master of Education in Counselling and Psychotherapy at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) in 2023. I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). I volunteered in several organization that supported various populations including Toronto Distress Centres and YMCA’s Newcomer Information Centre. I also worked at the HIV Prevention Lab supporting sexual health of gay and bisexual men and other men who have sex with men.
I completed an Honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of Toronto Scarborough in 2017 and a Master of Education in Counselling and Psychotherapy at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) in 2023. I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). I volunteered in several organization that supported various populations including Toronto Distress Centres and YMCA’s Newcomer Information Centre. I also worked at the HIV Prevention Lab supporting sexual health of gay and bisexual men and other men who have sex with men.
(437) 291-8196 View (437) 291-8196
Photo of Praney Anand, Registered Psychotherapist in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Praney Anand
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M5A
My areas of focus include sex education, support to racialized individuals, members of the queer community, and newcomers to Canada.
I welcome you with a willingness to learn more about whatever might be holding you back in life or your relationship(s). My approach to therapy is client-centred and collaborative. I strive to explore solutions that work in your environment. I am a South Asian, gay/queer, cisgender man, immigrant/settler, & I have extensive experience working with heterosexual & queer/2SLGBTQ+ individuals & couples.
My areas of focus include sex education, support to racialized individuals, members of the queer community, and newcomers to Canada.
I welcome you with a willingness to learn more about whatever might be holding you back in life or your relationship(s). My approach to therapy is client-centred and collaborative. I strive to explore solutions that work in your environment. I am a South Asian, gay/queer, cisgender man, immigrant/settler, & I have extensive experience working with heterosexual & queer/2SLGBTQ+ individuals & couples.
(437) 291-8249 View (437) 291-8249
Photo of Sarah Chikoski, Registered Social Worker in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Sarah Chikoski
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T
I'm Sarah (She/They), an Ontario registered Social Worker, and I'm here to walk alongside you on your path to healing and growth. I am a Queer, gender fluid individual, with my own lived experiences. Having walked my own path, I truly understand the worth of lived experience in therapeutic work. The special insights and lessons we gather from our personal journeys provide wonderful chances for self-reflection and personal growth. Embracing the idea that lived experience is a valid way of gaining understanding is at the heart of how I approach offering caring and therapeutic support.
I'm Sarah (She/They), an Ontario registered Social Worker, and I'm here to walk alongside you on your path to healing and growth. I am a Queer, gender fluid individual, with my own lived experiences. Having walked my own path, I truly understand the worth of lived experience in therapeutic work. The special insights and lessons we gather from our personal journeys provide wonderful chances for self-reflection and personal growth. Embracing the idea that lived experience is a valid way of gaining understanding is at the heart of how I approach offering caring and therapeutic support.
(437) 747-8219 View (437) 747-8219
Photo of Tara Jane Wodelet, Registered Psychotherapist in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Tara Jane Wodelet
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M5C  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a queer and gender expansive therapist, offering individual online therapy across most Canadian jurisdictions. I offer a contextualizing, self-compassionate, and strengths based approach. While life's hardships will never disappear, I can help you come to more peace and aliveness within yourself. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space to be seen, heard, and grow within. Therapy is kind of like detangling a big ball of yarn; it can be both hard yet relieving (you're not broken, just tangled!), and ultimately allows room for more consciousness/choice to flow in: now that your threads are free, what would you like to weave?
Welcome! I am a queer and gender expansive therapist, offering individual online therapy across most Canadian jurisdictions. I offer a contextualizing, self-compassionate, and strengths based approach. While life's hardships will never disappear, I can help you come to more peace and aliveness within yourself. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space to be seen, heard, and grow within. Therapy is kind of like detangling a big ball of yarn; it can be both hard yet relieving (you're not broken, just tangled!), and ultimately allows room for more consciousness/choice to flow in: now that your threads are free, what would you like to weave?
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Photo of Weronika Rogula, Registered Social Worker in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Weronika Rogula
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S  (Online Only)
I work with queer and trans people as an individual and couples therapist by supporting them in deepening their relationships with themselves and others while living with more ease and joy. Many individuals connect with me when they are feeling overwhelmed and exhausted despite things seeming okay on the surface. Many couples connect with me when they are (curious about) exploring non-monogamy and polyamory. I support everyone who comes to this work cultivate greater self-awareness and deepen connection by guiding them to be present with the thing most of us want to avoid - pain. I do this with compassion and sometimes humour.
I work with queer and trans people as an individual and couples therapist by supporting them in deepening their relationships with themselves and others while living with more ease and joy. Many individuals connect with me when they are feeling overwhelmed and exhausted despite things seeming okay on the surface. Many couples connect with me when they are (curious about) exploring non-monogamy and polyamory. I support everyone who comes to this work cultivate greater self-awareness and deepen connection by guiding them to be present with the thing most of us want to avoid - pain. I do this with compassion and sometimes humour.
(647) 560-0196 View (647) 560-0196
Photo of Sawyer Johnson, Registered Social Worker in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Sawyer Johnson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M6J  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it means to be a part of the queer and trans community? Hi! My name is Sawyer and I use they/them pronouns. I’m a queer, transgender, non-binary registered social worker, and therapist working with Positive Space Consulting. I’m looking to connect deeply with the queer and trans community in a relational and curious way. I hold a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Social Work from the Univesity of Calgary.
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it means to be a part of the queer and trans community? Hi! My name is Sawyer and I use they/them pronouns. I’m a queer, transgender, non-binary registered social worker, and therapist working with Positive Space Consulting. I’m looking to connect deeply with the queer and trans community in a relational and curious way. I hold a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Social Work from the Univesity of Calgary.
(437) 372-5463 View (437) 372-5463
Photo of Liam McElheron, Registered Social Worker in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Liam McElheron
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M4Y
Are you struggling with low mood, anxiety, or relationship issues? Do you feel stuck, or trapped in patterns that leave you unhappy? Therapy can help you find a way forward and gradually let go of limiting thought and behaviour patterns. As a gay man, I understand how identity and discrimination can also impact mental health.
Are you struggling with low mood, anxiety, or relationship issues? Do you feel stuck, or trapped in patterns that leave you unhappy? Therapy can help you find a way forward and gradually let go of limiting thought and behaviour patterns. As a gay man, I understand how identity and discrimination can also impact mental health.
(647) 360-5649 View (647) 360-5649
Photo of Dr. Natalie Kalb, Psychologist in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Dr. Natalie Kalb
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M6G
I help youth and adults navigate challenges related to: Substance use & addiction; Queer, transgender, & nonbinary identity exploration and concerns; Trauma/PTSD; Relationship difficulties; ADHD and/or Autism; Anxiety & Depression.
I believe that therapy is a creative opportunity to learn about ourselves. It is a safe space where we can write and rewrite the narratives of our lives. As a queer Mexican woman, I strive to cultivate a practice that is rooted in empathy, empowerment, and inclusivity and provide therapy that is trauma-informed, culturally humble, and neurodiversity & 2SLGBTQ+ affirming. I am privileged to facilitate an environment where my clients can engage in self-discovery, healing, and make changes towards living a meaningful life.
I help youth and adults navigate challenges related to: Substance use & addiction; Queer, transgender, & nonbinary identity exploration and concerns; Trauma/PTSD; Relationship difficulties; ADHD and/or Autism; Anxiety & Depression.
I believe that therapy is a creative opportunity to learn about ourselves. It is a safe space where we can write and rewrite the narratives of our lives. As a queer Mexican woman, I strive to cultivate a practice that is rooted in empathy, empowerment, and inclusivity and provide therapy that is trauma-informed, culturally humble, and neurodiversity & 2SLGBTQ+ affirming. I am privileged to facilitate an environment where my clients can engage in self-discovery, healing, and make changes towards living a meaningful life.
(647) 692-4417 View (647) 692-4417
Photo of William Koné, Registered Psychotherapist in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
William Koné
Registered Psychotherapist, MA , RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
Are you someone that identifies as LGBTQ+, seeking an outlet to express one’s worries? Are you a racialized person struggling to find someone you can speak to about life challenges? Have you reached a roadblock in your communication with a romantic partner? LGBTQ+ and racialized folks are often limited in spaces that allow them to feel fully seen. With couples, there are often difficulties figuring out where to start in managing conflict. Through a collaborative therapeutic stance, I am to challenge such difficult realities by supporting clients to fulfill their desired goals.
Are you someone that identifies as LGBTQ+, seeking an outlet to express one’s worries? Are you a racialized person struggling to find someone you can speak to about life challenges? Have you reached a roadblock in your communication with a romantic partner? LGBTQ+ and racialized folks are often limited in spaces that allow them to feel fully seen. With couples, there are often difficulties figuring out where to start in managing conflict. Through a collaborative therapeutic stance, I am to challenge such difficult realities by supporting clients to fulfill their desired goals.
(437) 747-6843 View (437) 747-6843
Photo of Scott Howcroft, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Scott Howcroft
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M6J  (Online Only)
I work with a range of clients including those in the LGBTQ+ community, those from different cultures. The majority of my clients are individuals at the moment, I am a sex positive, poly-aware therapist who works with and respects all relationships. If you're feeling stuck (life or career), grieving, depressed or anxious I am happy to work with you. I specialize in life transitions, relationships, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I work with a range of clients including those in the LGBTQ+ community, those from different cultures. The majority of my clients are individuals at the moment, I am a sex positive, poly-aware therapist who works with and respects all relationships. If you're feeling stuck (life or career), grieving, depressed or anxious I am happy to work with you. I specialize in life transitions, relationships, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
(647) 951-7250 View (647) 951-7250
Photo of Michael Adia (Hope Leads Mental Health Care), Registered Social Worker in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Michael Adia (Hope Leads Mental Health Care)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M5A  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a racialized queer and bilingual speaker (English and Tagalog), Michael uses a culturally sensitive and responsive approach to support you in therapy.
Michael provides counseling and psychotherapy to adults, 18 years and older. He can support you in learning practical skills in managing mood and dealing with experiences of oppression. Michael is also here to help you build tools in working through grief and loss, non traditional relationships (i.e. open, polyamorous), gender journey, and complex health/mental health challenges including addictions. He is also a goal oriented therapist and works to ensure that each therapy session is productive.
As a racialized queer and bilingual speaker (English and Tagalog), Michael uses a culturally sensitive and responsive approach to support you in therapy.
Michael provides counseling and psychotherapy to adults, 18 years and older. He can support you in learning practical skills in managing mood and dealing with experiences of oppression. Michael is also here to help you build tools in working through grief and loss, non traditional relationships (i.e. open, polyamorous), gender journey, and complex health/mental health challenges including addictions. He is also a goal oriented therapist and works to ensure that each therapy session is productive.
(647) 699-6867 View (647) 699-6867
Photo of Keith Adamson, Registered Social Worker in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Keith Adamson
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M5R
My specialty focuses on queer issues, anxiety, depression, post-trauma symptoms, work-related stress, and post-separation parental counselling. I care about what you want to accomplish in your life. My primary commitment is to help you achieve your life goals and become the best version of yourself. I am willing to start wherever you are at and work with you to make practical changes that will lead to a more fulfilling life. Ultimately, I aim to empower you, at whatever age or stage of life you are, to actively participate in your own growth and fulfillment.
My specialty focuses on queer issues, anxiety, depression, post-trauma symptoms, work-related stress, and post-separation parental counselling. I care about what you want to accomplish in your life. My primary commitment is to help you achieve your life goals and become the best version of yourself. I am willing to start wherever you are at and work with you to make practical changes that will lead to a more fulfilling life. Ultimately, I aim to empower you, at whatever age or stage of life you are, to actively participate in your own growth and fulfillment.
(437) 747-7711 View (437) 747-7711
Photo of Amy O'Leary, Registered Social Worker in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Amy O'Leary
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M4Y  (Online Only)
As a queer/trans person, I understand the struggle of finding a gender-affirming therapist.
Taking new clients for evenings and weekends! As a therapist, I treat adults seeking support with their sexual orientation or gender identity, along with the challenges of coming out. I also treat symptoms such as anxiety, and depression, or are seeking assistance in family conflicts. As a member of the WPATH, I can offer letters for adults seeking gender-affirming care services that require a therapist's letter. Lastly, those who come to see me want to look deep into themselves, and set goals to parse through their internal judgments to see how our negative experiences with others and society have impacted our own self-esteem.
As a queer/trans person, I understand the struggle of finding a gender-affirming therapist.
Taking new clients for evenings and weekends! As a therapist, I treat adults seeking support with their sexual orientation or gender identity, along with the challenges of coming out. I also treat symptoms such as anxiety, and depression, or are seeking assistance in family conflicts. As a member of the WPATH, I can offer letters for adults seeking gender-affirming care services that require a therapist's letter. Lastly, those who come to see me want to look deep into themselves, and set goals to parse through their internal judgments to see how our negative experiences with others and society have impacted our own self-esteem.
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Photo of Rylie Moore, Psychologist in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Rylie Moore
Psychologist, PhD, CPysch
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M5A
Assessment and Psychotherapy Services: During our appointments, we will work together to understand what is happening for you in its larger context, including your past experiences and your social world. Using this holistic, collaborative and relational approach will ensure the work we do is helpful and meaningful for you. My therapeutic approach is neurodiverse-, queer-, trauma-informed, using a combination of CBT, IPT, IFS, IPT, DBT, psychodynamic, and mindfulness-based therapies. These approaches provide an effective perspective from which to understand factors that may contribute to and maintain mental health difficulties.
Assessment and Psychotherapy Services: During our appointments, we will work together to understand what is happening for you in its larger context, including your past experiences and your social world. Using this holistic, collaborative and relational approach will ensure the work we do is helpful and meaningful for you. My therapeutic approach is neurodiverse-, queer-, trauma-informed, using a combination of CBT, IPT, IFS, IPT, DBT, psychodynamic, and mindfulness-based therapies. These approaches provide an effective perspective from which to understand factors that may contribute to and maintain mental health difficulties.
(289) 816-6545 View (289) 816-6545
Photo of Karen Hutchinson, Registered Social Worker in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Karen Hutchinson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B  (Online Only)
Are you feeling disheartened in your search for the right queer therapist? Does it sometimes feel like therapy is too formal or clinical for you to feel a connection with your therapist? Hi! I’m Karen. I’m a registered social worker and psychotherapist. As a queer woman with lived experience, I know how important it is to create a warm, comfortable and safe space where you can be your authentic self in therapy. Together we can unpack your feelings and experiences and learn some new ways of coping. Let's connect, and move towards a life that feels good for you!
Are you feeling disheartened in your search for the right queer therapist? Does it sometimes feel like therapy is too formal or clinical for you to feel a connection with your therapist? Hi! I’m Karen. I’m a registered social worker and psychotherapist. As a queer woman with lived experience, I know how important it is to create a warm, comfortable and safe space where you can be your authentic self in therapy. Together we can unpack your feelings and experiences and learn some new ways of coping. Let's connect, and move towards a life that feels good for you!
(365) 602-1110 View (365) 602-1110
Photo of Ellen Fowler, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Ellen Fowler
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S
People come to therapy for many different reasons. It is not a search for answers, but rather a journey towards understanding and growth that we will venture on together. I welcome all the different parts of yourself you might bring (even the ones you might not be so fond of). I am a white settler who is a fat, neurodivergent, queer femme. These are some of the many identities I hold, which shape my experience in the world. I aim to hold space to honour all the complexities and nuances that exist within you. I strive to work from an Anti-Racist, Anti-Oppressive and Trauma-Informed place.
People come to therapy for many different reasons. It is not a search for answers, but rather a journey towards understanding and growth that we will venture on together. I welcome all the different parts of yourself you might bring (even the ones you might not be so fond of). I am a white settler who is a fat, neurodivergent, queer femme. These are some of the many identities I hold, which shape my experience in the world. I aim to hold space to honour all the complexities and nuances that exist within you. I strive to work from an Anti-Racist, Anti-Oppressive and Trauma-Informed place.
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Photo of David Moulton, Registered Psychotherapist in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
David Moulton
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T
I work with adults who are feeling stressed: they may worry, panic or feel shy in social situations, may try to be perfect, may feel badly about themselves, or wish to express themselves more effectively, or to set clearer boundaries with others, or to be more assertive. I also work with people from the straight and LGBTQ communities who are experiencing challenges in their relationships, with sexuality, sexual orientation, alternative relationships, alternative sexualities, and gender. Many experience these challenges, but some may lose a sense of balance in their lives or the ability to enjoy life and relationships while trying to sort out their concerns.
I work with adults who are feeling stressed: they may worry, panic or feel shy in social situations, may try to be perfect, may feel badly about themselves, or wish to express themselves more effectively, or to set clearer boundaries with others, or to be more assertive. I also work with people from the straight and LGBTQ communities who are experiencing challenges in their relationships, with sexuality, sexual orientation, alternative relationships, alternative sexualities, and gender. Many experience these challenges, but some may lose a sense of balance in their lives or the ability to enjoy life and relationships while trying to sort out their concerns.
(647) 525-8268 View (647) 525-8268
Photo of LGBTQ+ therapy online, Rainbowcounselling, Registered Psychotherapist in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
LGBTQ+ therapy online, Rainbowcounselling
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M5A  (Online Only)
Are you, your relationship or family looking for a therapist with experience & knowledge of 2SLGBTQ+ identities? Rainbowcounselling is a completely virtual 2SLGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling practice which supports folks all over Ontario, Canada. We value anti-oppressive and trauma informed approaches to counselling. Our therapists understand the importance of bridging the gap in accessible mental health care for queer and transgender folks & those in close relationships to the community. Our therapists specialize in topics including: Neurodivergent Identities, Relationships, Trauma, Infidelity, Betrayal, Exploring Sexuality & Gender.
Are you, your relationship or family looking for a therapist with experience & knowledge of 2SLGBTQ+ identities? Rainbowcounselling is a completely virtual 2SLGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling practice which supports folks all over Ontario, Canada. We value anti-oppressive and trauma informed approaches to counselling. Our therapists understand the importance of bridging the gap in accessible mental health care for queer and transgender folks & those in close relationships to the community. Our therapists specialize in topics including: Neurodivergent Identities, Relationships, Trauma, Infidelity, Betrayal, Exploring Sexuality & Gender.
(437) 747-4664 View (437) 747-4664
Photo of Steven Ross Therapy, Registered Social Worker in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Steven Ross Therapy
Registered Social Worker, RSW, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M4Y
I am an RSW LCSW psychotherapist with a private practice in Toronto and NY serving clients via Zoom/phone in Ontario, NY, NJ. I tend to see a broad assortment of people, many who are suffering from depression, anxiety, stress and difficulty coping. Some struggle with being single, others within their relationship, or with their sexual authenticity. Together through talk therapy we can find a pathway to a deeper understanding and a way to move forward with confidence and security My clients are from different worlds, heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, young and old, single, married, and all those in-between.
I am an RSW LCSW psychotherapist with a private practice in Toronto and NY serving clients via Zoom/phone in Ontario, NY, NJ. I tend to see a broad assortment of people, many who are suffering from depression, anxiety, stress and difficulty coping. Some struggle with being single, others within their relationship, or with their sexual authenticity. Together through talk therapy we can find a pathway to a deeper understanding and a way to move forward with confidence and security My clients are from different worlds, heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, young and old, single, married, and all those in-between.
(647) 694-7802 View (647) 694-7802
Photo of Cressida Frey, Registered Social Worker in Central Toronto, Toronto, ON
Cressida Frey
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Central Toronto, Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
Welcome. I'm a queer, non-binary, white therapist specializing in trauma therapy, BPD, ENM, and kink. I work with individuals and couples/constellations within queer and trans communities. Whenever you are on your journey, we begin by honouring the complexity of experiences that brought you here. From a place of empathy, tenderness, consent, and compassion, we address anxiety, stress, sadness, dissociation, grief, loss, rage, self-criticism, shame, and trauma that stem from interpersonal and systemic experiences of violence and oppression.
Welcome. I'm a queer, non-binary, white therapist specializing in trauma therapy, BPD, ENM, and kink. I work with individuals and couples/constellations within queer and trans communities. Whenever you are on your journey, we begin by honouring the complexity of experiences that brought you here. From a place of empathy, tenderness, consent, and compassion, we address anxiety, stress, sadness, dissociation, grief, loss, rage, self-criticism, shame, and trauma that stem from interpersonal and systemic experiences of violence and oppression.
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See more therapy options for Central Toronto, Toronto

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.