LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Waterloo, ON

Photo of Annette Martin - - Whole Family Psychotherapy, MSW, RSW, CC-PMH, Registered Social Worker
Annette Martin - - Whole Family Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CC-PMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
While becoming a parent can bring joy and fulfillment, the changes and stressors that accompany the perinatal period (prenatal and postpartum) can also have substantial impacts on a parent’s mental health. Nothing can easily prepare a parent for this significant new role. New parents are often overwhelmed with how how all consuming caring for a baby can be, may experience challenging shifts in their important relationships, and my not yet know how to cope or access the support they need. As a queer parent, I have a keen desire to support queer families, who deserve a space that feels affirming of their family - all are welcome!
While becoming a parent can bring joy and fulfillment, the changes and stressors that accompany the perinatal period (prenatal and postpartum) can also have substantial impacts on a parent’s mental health. Nothing can easily prepare a parent for this significant new role. New parents are often overwhelmed with how how all consuming caring for a baby can be, may experience challenging shifts in their important relationships, and my not yet know how to cope or access the support they need. As a queer parent, I have a keen desire to support queer families, who deserve a space that feels affirming of their family - all are welcome!
(226) 455-7825 View (226) 455-7825
Photo of Curtis Pittman - Curtis Pittman - Queer-Affirmative Therapy, MA, CCC, ND, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Curtis Pittman - Queer-Affirmative Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, CCC, ND
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
As a member of the 2S LGBTQ+ community, I have a passion for affirmative counselling with queer-identified folx.
Life can present many struggles that lead us to feel overwhelmed. A warm and supportive safe space provides the foundation for self-exploration and building new skill sets that help us through these moments. Whether your concerns are related to anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and/or grief, I aim to provide compassionate care that validates your experience and supports your goals. - - - Now offering private team-based Adult ADHD Assessments with a Registered Psychologist in Newfoundland and Labrador. - - -
As a member of the 2S LGBTQ+ community, I have a passion for affirmative counselling with queer-identified folx.
Life can present many struggles that lead us to feel overwhelmed. A warm and supportive safe space provides the foundation for self-exploration and building new skill sets that help us through these moments. Whether your concerns are related to anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and/or grief, I aim to provide compassionate care that validates your experience and supports your goals. - - - Now offering private team-based Adult ADHD Assessments with a Registered Psychologist in Newfoundland and Labrador. - - -
(709) 501-5794 View (709) 501-5794
Photo of David Moulton, MEd, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
David Moulton
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
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 Melanie Rodrigues, RP, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Melanie Rodrigues
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
My hope is that I can help people move through difficult life transitions with compassion and care - whether that's a transition in relationship status, a grief loss, or a shift in identity.
Things seem pretty awful right now, and you're wondering if you'll ever feel "okay". You're looking for someone who can listen without judgement, help you learn new coping skills, and create a plan to feel better. I believe that every person lives a life with unique challenges and that providing personalized care requires unique solutions. A "cookie cutter" approach simply won't work - instead, we will get to know one-another, and create a plan to help you feel better together. You deserve to be seen as an individual with a unique therapeutic approach that fits who you are, and who you want to be. ​
My hope is that I can help people move through difficult life transitions with compassion and care - whether that's a transition in relationship status, a grief loss, or a shift in identity.
Things seem pretty awful right now, and you're wondering if you'll ever feel "okay". You're looking for someone who can listen without judgement, help you learn new coping skills, and create a plan to feel better. I believe that every person lives a life with unique challenges and that providing personalized care requires unique solutions. A "cookie cutter" approach simply won't work - instead, we will get to know one-another, and create a plan to help you feel better together. You deserve to be seen as an individual with a unique therapeutic approach that fits who you are, and who you want to be. ​
(226) 242-9599 View (226) 242-9599
Photo of Jessie Baynham, BASC, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessie Baynham
Registered Psychotherapist, BASC, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
Waitlist for new clients
As a queer-identified woman, I am particularly interested but not exclusively focused on supporting clients within the LGBTQ2SIA+ community, including navigating name/gender marker changes.
I can help with a wide range of challenges, including times of transition, coping skills, questions around identity and/or sexuality, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues and/or divorce/separation, problems with school or work, and parenting challenges, etc. Of utmost importance is establishing a strong therapeutic relationship, as we work deeply to achieve your goals. My own lived experience with trauma, mental health challenges, sexuality/identity and experience of parenthood help inform and support the work we will do together. Fees listed below include HST. Find me online at www.jkbguelphtherapy.ca
As a queer-identified woman, I am particularly interested but not exclusively focused on supporting clients within the LGBTQ2SIA+ community, including navigating name/gender marker changes.
I can help with a wide range of challenges, including times of transition, coping skills, questions around identity and/or sexuality, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues and/or divorce/separation, problems with school or work, and parenting challenges, etc. Of utmost importance is establishing a strong therapeutic relationship, as we work deeply to achieve your goals. My own lived experience with trauma, mental health challenges, sexuality/identity and experience of parenthood help inform and support the work we will do together. Fees listed below include HST. Find me online at www.jkbguelphtherapy.ca
(226) 705-0417 View (226) 705-0417
Photo of Kate McDermott, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Kate McDermott
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting members of the 2S LGBTQ community and their families on any of the above issues with a queer focused lens.
Hi, I’m Kate. I help individuals, couples and families to grow, make improvements and overcome challenges in their lives. Getting support can help deepen your understanding of yourself and others in your life. Together we will explore parts of your inner self or relationship, noticing areas that assist you as well as ones that you may want to update or leave behind. I strive to create a space that is warm, genuine and encouraging. I am here to listen, help you reflect, and at times, challenge you to grow. I want your time with me to be effective and I aim to have you leave each session with a new thought, perspective or tool.
I specialize in supporting members of the 2S LGBTQ community and their families on any of the above issues with a queer focused lens.
Hi, I’m Kate. I help individuals, couples and families to grow, make improvements and overcome challenges in their lives. Getting support can help deepen your understanding of yourself and others in your life. Together we will explore parts of your inner self or relationship, noticing areas that assist you as well as ones that you may want to update or leave behind. I strive to create a space that is warm, genuine and encouraging. I am here to listen, help you reflect, and at times, challenge you to grow. I want your time with me to be effective and I aim to have you leave each session with a new thought, perspective or tool.
(289) 278-8326 View (289) 278-8326
Photo of Isidro Carvalho, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Isidro Carvalho
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
As a queer, trans, and neurodivergent therapist, I understand how hard it can be to find a therapist who understands what members of our communities go through.
Are you a queer, trans, or neurodivergent person dealing with the hurt of discrimination, rejection, or the feeling that folks around you just don’t understand? Maybe you struggle with trauma symptoms, dissociation, anxiety, depression, self-blame, or low self-worth. It can be hard to get up the courage to come to therapy only to feel like you have to explain the basics of your identity to your therapist. Worse yet, it can be scary to seek therapy when the field of psychology has historically tried to keep us from being our authentic selves.
As a queer, trans, and neurodivergent therapist, I understand how hard it can be to find a therapist who understands what members of our communities go through.
Are you a queer, trans, or neurodivergent person dealing with the hurt of discrimination, rejection, or the feeling that folks around you just don’t understand? Maybe you struggle with trauma symptoms, dissociation, anxiety, depression, self-blame, or low self-worth. It can be hard to get up the courage to come to therapy only to feel like you have to explain the basics of your identity to your therapist. Worse yet, it can be scary to seek therapy when the field of psychology has historically tried to keep us from being our authentic selves.
(548) 918-5115 View (548) 918-5115
Photo of Kameron Kirbyson, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Kameron Kirbyson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L
I am a queer therapist with a colourful hearing aid, who is passionate about helping people figure who they are and shout it from the rooftops, no matter their identity. My practice is centered upon self acceptance and understanding what you value, which is why Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is my home base, but I draw from many other modalities.
I am a queer therapist with a colourful hearing aid, who is passionate about helping people figure who they are and shout it from the rooftops, no matter their identity. My practice is centered upon self acceptance and understanding what you value, which is why Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is my home base, but I draw from many other modalities.
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Photo of Greg Jenkins, PhD, RCC, RP, Counsellor
Greg Jenkins
Counsellor, PhD, RCC, RP
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
We strive to be trauma informed, LGBTQ+ affirming, and to demonstrate cultural humility.
Accepting new clients at this time: Over 20 years of experience guides my work with individuals of all ages, couples, and families. I work to be easy to talk to and non-judgmental. Each person is different and together we'll find what works for you.
We strive to be trauma informed, LGBTQ+ affirming, and to demonstrate cultural humility.
Accepting new clients at this time: Over 20 years of experience guides my work with individuals of all ages, couples, and families. I work to be easy to talk to and non-judgmental. Each person is different and together we'll find what works for you.
(778) 766-4570 View (778) 766-4570
Photo of Heidi Argyle Art Therapy And Psychotherapy, RCAT, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Heidi Argyle Art Therapy And Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RCAT, MA, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2V
Waitlist for new clients
Your acronyms don’t scare me! BPD, ADHD, LGBTQIA2S+, BDSM — no matter what your alphabet soup, I’m in.
I am a white, cis-female, queer, creative woman, and I go by Heidi! Art therapy is a great way to hack the therapeutic process. Trying to work through something tough, but you can’t talk about it — or you don’t want to? Art Therapy gives you a way to express yourself that doesn’t require you to, or to be “good at art”! Art gives your brain a way to get things out that our conscious mind doesn’t want to think about. So much of our relationship conflict comes from what’s not being said. What are you not saying? To whom? What’s stopping you? Let’s find out.
Your acronyms don’t scare me! BPD, ADHD, LGBTQIA2S+, BDSM — no matter what your alphabet soup, I’m in.
I am a white, cis-female, queer, creative woman, and I go by Heidi! Art therapy is a great way to hack the therapeutic process. Trying to work through something tough, but you can’t talk about it — or you don’t want to? Art Therapy gives you a way to express yourself that doesn’t require you to, or to be “good at art”! Art gives your brain a way to get things out that our conscious mind doesn’t want to think about. So much of our relationship conflict comes from what’s not being said. What are you not saying? To whom? What’s stopping you? Let’s find out.
(548) 483-5368 View (548) 483-5368
Photo of Victoria Couture, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Victoria Couture
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families dealing with issues including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life changes, transitions, family conflict, abuse, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, and more.
I aim to create a safe and comfortable space that supports my clients growth and leads to positive change and overall wellness. My priority is to treat each person with kindness and respect and allow them the space to share openly and be their authentic selves. I am known for my warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach and integrative therapy style that is collaborative and person-centered. I incorporate various modalities and interventions to meet my client’s needs, including Brainspotting, Narrative, Solution-Focused, CBT, Play-Based, Mindfulness-Based, and Trauma-Focused approaches.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families dealing with issues including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life changes, transitions, family conflict, abuse, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, and more.
I aim to create a safe and comfortable space that supports my clients growth and leads to positive change and overall wellness. My priority is to treat each person with kindness and respect and allow them the space to share openly and be their authentic selves. I am known for my warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach and integrative therapy style that is collaborative and person-centered. I incorporate various modalities and interventions to meet my client’s needs, including Brainspotting, Narrative, Solution-Focused, CBT, Play-Based, Mindfulness-Based, and Trauma-Focused approaches.
(226) 779-2824 View (226) 779-2824
Photo of Courtney Johnston, MA, RP(Q), CRPO, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Courtney Johnston
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q), CRPO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2T
I have worked with many diverse populations, including the LGBTQIA+ community, individuals with acquired brain injuries (ABI), and victims of gendered violence, such as sex trade workers.
Accepting New Clients - Sometimes the weight we carry in life can all become too much and maybe we shut down or have an outburst. In whatever way it comes out, I know that this is all part of being human. My goal is to compassionately support you in understanding the patterns that have you feeling stuck and navigate your inner world. I will walk alongside you in your search for meaningful change. If you would like to start this healing work together, then the easiest way is to book an appointment through our website (chettiarcounselling.ca)
I have worked with many diverse populations, including the LGBTQIA+ community, individuals with acquired brain injuries (ABI), and victims of gendered violence, such as sex trade workers.
Accepting New Clients - Sometimes the weight we carry in life can all become too much and maybe we shut down or have an outburst. In whatever way it comes out, I know that this is all part of being human. My goal is to compassionately support you in understanding the patterns that have you feeling stuck and navigate your inner world. I will walk alongside you in your search for meaningful change. If you would like to start this healing work together, then the easiest way is to book an appointment through our website (chettiarcounselling.ca)
(548) 490-8281 View (548) 490-8281
Photo of Marinela Trickett, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Marinela Trickett
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
I have been working with people suffering from BPD and difficulties regulating emotions in clinical settings and private practice for over a decade now. I have also worked extensively with poly-substance and behavioural addictions, clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, age, and socioeconomic status, complex PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQ, and Sex Addiction. I have worked closely with Veterans, struggling with decades of combat trauma, victims of human trafficking, loss and grief. I have acquired this experience not only in individual and group setting, but also working with couples in outpatient and inpatient setting.
I have been working with people suffering from BPD and difficulties regulating emotions in clinical settings and private practice for over a decade now. I have also worked extensively with poly-substance and behavioural addictions, clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, age, and socioeconomic status, complex PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQ, and Sex Addiction. I have worked closely with Veterans, struggling with decades of combat trauma, victims of human trafficking, loss and grief. I have acquired this experience not only in individual and group setting, but also working with couples in outpatient and inpatient setting.
(416) 732-3277 View (416) 732-3277
Photo of Madelyn Whittle, BASc, MC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Madelyn Whittle
Registered Psychotherapist, BASc, MC, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
I believe therapy can be a safe and creative space for self-exploration and discovery! Whether you are experiencing relational or mental/physical health challenges, processing a recent diagnosis, or discovering your unique and preferred Self, I am here to support you in a compassionate and affirming way. As a queer, neuro-divergent woman (she/her), I believe in the value of shared humanity, inclusivity, empathy, and empowerment in the therapy space. I aim to create a welcoming, collaborative atmosphere where you can develop coping tools & move toward your goals with intention.
I believe therapy can be a safe and creative space for self-exploration and discovery! Whether you are experiencing relational or mental/physical health challenges, processing a recent diagnosis, or discovering your unique and preferred Self, I am here to support you in a compassionate and affirming way. As a queer, neuro-divergent woman (she/her), I believe in the value of shared humanity, inclusivity, empathy, and empowerment in the therapy space. I aim to create a welcoming, collaborative atmosphere where you can develop coping tools & move toward your goals with intention.
(226) 408-4517 View (226) 408-4517
Photo of Emily Ameara Mclennan, RP, DTATI, Registered Psychotherapist
Emily Ameara Mclennan
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, DTATI
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a registered psychotherapist, but also a human being. If you don't feel like traditional therapy is for you, then I work with you to find what is. I specialize in: Trauma, PTSD, BPD, CPTSD, anxiety and depression. I am Queer- LGBTQ2S- non-gender conforming. I look at therapy as a path towards healing, with a holistic approach towards health and mental wellness.​ Trauma-informed expressive therapy is based on bringing what is unconscious to conciousness in a safe way and finding containers that work with you to help you process and unpack in order to heal.
I am a registered psychotherapist, but also a human being. If you don't feel like traditional therapy is for you, then I work with you to find what is. I specialize in: Trauma, PTSD, BPD, CPTSD, anxiety and depression. I am Queer- LGBTQ2S- non-gender conforming. I look at therapy as a path towards healing, with a holistic approach towards health and mental wellness.​ Trauma-informed expressive therapy is based on bringing what is unconscious to conciousness in a safe way and finding containers that work with you to help you process and unpack in order to heal.
(647) 957-9821 View (647) 957-9821
Photo of Joshua Daniel Parent - Joshua Parent Psychotherapy, MEd, MT, Registered Psychotherapist
Joshua Parent Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, MT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
Currently accepting new clients: offering in-person sessions to Windsor-Essex and online to all of Ontario. My name is Josh and I am a queer-identifying, Registered Psychotherapist. My approach to psychotherapy prioritizes the relationship that develops between us and focuses on creating a sense of safety. I approach each person with a genuine curiosity to better understand both their present and past experiences. I have extensive experience working with adults to address relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression and self-esteem.
Currently accepting new clients: offering in-person sessions to Windsor-Essex and online to all of Ontario. My name is Josh and I am a queer-identifying, Registered Psychotherapist. My approach to psychotherapy prioritizes the relationship that develops between us and focuses on creating a sense of safety. I approach each person with a genuine curiosity to better understand both their present and past experiences. I have extensive experience working with adults to address relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression and self-esteem.
(519) 450-8027 View (519) 450-8027
Photo of Carley Ross, RN, RP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Carley Ross
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RN, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2T  (Online Only)
I aim to provide an LGBTQ + affirming space.
Are you feeling alone in what you are going through right now? If you are like most women I support, you are looking for someone who understands and offers compassion and zero judgement. You might be a parent, or someone facing struggles associated with chronic stress, past trauma, or challenges with mood. You might be looking for support with new coping strategies, or just someone to talk to who can understand the challenges you are facing. Life can be hard, and I can offer a soft place to explore yourself, your challenges, and your pursuit to wellbeing.
I aim to provide an LGBTQ + affirming space.
Are you feeling alone in what you are going through right now? If you are like most women I support, you are looking for someone who understands and offers compassion and zero judgement. You might be a parent, or someone facing struggles associated with chronic stress, past trauma, or challenges with mood. You might be looking for support with new coping strategies, or just someone to talk to who can understand the challenges you are facing. Life can be hard, and I can offer a soft place to explore yourself, your challenges, and your pursuit to wellbeing.
(289) 723-1935 View (289) 723-1935
Photo of Tara Luhtanen, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Tara Luhtanen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
Anti-oppressive trauma-informed LGBTQIA2S+ BIPOC trans affirming.
Hi, I'm Tara and I'm glad you're here. I offer an attentive, purposeful and collaborative session centred around your unique experiences, and never one-size-fits-all. Let's focus on what you want to talk about. My approach is conversational and grounded in Narrative therapy practices. Counselling can be a source of support during challenging times, and for problem-solving with an unbiased person. It can be helpful when the voice of anxiety is loud, with the call of perfection, suffering under "the shoulds", loneliness, procrastination, feelings of guilt, patterns you long to change, wondering "what's normal" and more.
Anti-oppressive trauma-informed LGBTQIA2S+ BIPOC trans affirming.
Hi, I'm Tara and I'm glad you're here. I offer an attentive, purposeful and collaborative session centred around your unique experiences, and never one-size-fits-all. Let's focus on what you want to talk about. My approach is conversational and grounded in Narrative therapy practices. Counselling can be a source of support during challenging times, and for problem-solving with an unbiased person. It can be helpful when the voice of anxiety is loud, with the call of perfection, suffering under "the shoulds", loneliness, procrastination, feelings of guilt, patterns you long to change, wondering "what's normal" and more.
(587) 858-0886 View (587) 858-0886
Photo of Julie Mason, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Julie Mason
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J  (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience in community and individual mental health care, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless individuals embrace transformative change.
You are not the problem. Being an interrogator of “problems” is my philosophical north star. Guided by a profound commitment to understanding and addressing life’s complexities, my collaborative approach to therapy is a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Narrative Therapy. With Affirming-CBT, we’ll work together to identify and explore thought patterns, behaviors and environmental influences that may be keeping your hopes out of reach. We will build up your skills and inner resources so that you can begin to make more meaningful changes in your life.
With over a decade of experience in community and individual mental health care, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless individuals embrace transformative change.
You are not the problem. Being an interrogator of “problems” is my philosophical north star. Guided by a profound commitment to understanding and addressing life’s complexities, my collaborative approach to therapy is a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Narrative Therapy. With Affirming-CBT, we’ll work together to identify and explore thought patterns, behaviors and environmental influences that may be keeping your hopes out of reach. We will build up your skills and inner resources so that you can begin to make more meaningful changes in your life.
(226) 457-0629 View (226) 457-0629
Photo of Leah Neumann, MSW, RSW, LCSW, Registered Social Worker
Leah Neumann
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
My general counselling and psychotherapy practice addresses the needs of individuals and families who arrive with a variety of life challenges. These may include depression, anxiety, loss and grief, unresolved traumatic stress, sexuality issues, life transitions, parenting struggles, relationship difficulties, and general concerns about life satisfaction.
My general counselling and psychotherapy practice addresses the needs of individuals and families who arrive with a variety of life challenges. These may include depression, anxiety, loss and grief, unresolved traumatic stress, sexuality issues, life transitions, parenting struggles, relationship difficulties, and general concerns about life satisfaction.
(226) 777-0951 View (226) 777-0951
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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.