LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Hudson, QC

Photo of Michaela Georgescu, PhD, Psychologist
Michaela Georgescu
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hudson, QC J0P
I work in Hudson, 30 minutes from the West Island and about 20 from Vaudreuil. My areas of specialization are in the treatment of anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, addiction, chronic health problems and couple therapy. Many of my clients tend to be people-pleasers and/or perfectionists, which can predispose one to develop relationship difficulties, anger or burnout. I use psychological techniques that have been shown to work by the fields of psychology and psychiatry to help my clients resolve their problems, change dysfunctional thoughts and behaviours, and accept situations over which they have no control.
I work in Hudson, 30 minutes from the West Island and about 20 from Vaudreuil. My areas of specialization are in the treatment of anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, addiction, chronic health problems and couple therapy. Many of my clients tend to be people-pleasers and/or perfectionists, which can predispose one to develop relationship difficulties, anger or burnout. I use psychological techniques that have been shown to work by the fields of psychology and psychiatry to help my clients resolve their problems, change dysfunctional thoughts and behaviours, and accept situations over which they have no control.
(514) 400-9355 View (514) 400-9355
Photo of Amanda Luterman - Centre for Erotic Empathy, MA, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Centre for Erotic Empathy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Hudson, QC J0P
Just because you love each other doesn't mean you arouse each other. Many healthy, wonderful relationships yearn for greater erotic connection and sexual fulfillment. We respect your financial investment in at therapeutic process and seek timely effectiveness. The clinical associates at the Centre for Erotic Empathy are licensed, highly skilled mental health practitioners. Feel free to contact us with any questions. There is no need for immediate commitment to ongoing treatment, and all ages, genders, and relationship configurations are welcome. You deserve pleasure.
Just because you love each other doesn't mean you arouse each other. Many healthy, wonderful relationships yearn for greater erotic connection and sexual fulfillment. We respect your financial investment in at therapeutic process and seek timely effectiveness. The clinical associates at the Centre for Erotic Empathy are licensed, highly skilled mental health practitioners. Feel free to contact us with any questions. There is no need for immediate commitment to ongoing treatment, and all ages, genders, and relationship configurations are welcome. You deserve pleasure.
(514) 400-2507 View (514) 400-2507
Photo of Lisa Brookman, MSW, PSW, psychot, Registered Social Worker
Lisa Brookman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, PSW, psychot
Verified Verified
Hudson, QC J0P
Lisa is a psychotherapist and the co-director of the West Island Therapy and Wellness Centre, a private Canadian clinic promoting mental health and wellness. For over two decades, Lisa has been supporting people to deepen and strengthen their ability to transform their lives. She offers in-office and virtual online sessions to anyone who wants to connect more deeply to their inner voice, wants to be more purposeful, and cultivate a peaceful and enriched sense of self.
Lisa is a psychotherapist and the co-director of the West Island Therapy and Wellness Centre, a private Canadian clinic promoting mental health and wellness. For over two decades, Lisa has been supporting people to deepen and strengthen their ability to transform their lives. She offers in-office and virtual online sessions to anyone who wants to connect more deeply to their inner voice, wants to be more purposeful, and cultivate a peaceful and enriched sense of self.
(514) 400-2518 View (514) 400-2518
Photo of Jodie Thompson, SCC, PSW/TS, TCF, CMFT, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Jodie Thompson
Registered Psychotherapist, SCC, PSW/TS, TCF, CMFT, MSc
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hudson, QC J0P
Are you struggling, with depression or anxiety and are looking for some answers? Understanding your conscious and unconscious patterns that can result in feelings of being stuck is one of my specialities. My professional interests have taken the form of interpersonal understanding, as well as identity and fertility issues. I have supported individuals/couples and families through challenges that include relational issues, depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders; as well as through crises triggered by traumatic events. We have expanded to a group practice working with youth, addults, couples and families.
Are you struggling, with depression or anxiety and are looking for some answers? Understanding your conscious and unconscious patterns that can result in feelings of being stuck is one of my specialities. My professional interests have taken the form of interpersonal understanding, as well as identity and fertility issues. I have supported individuals/couples and families through challenges that include relational issues, depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders; as well as through crises triggered by traumatic events. We have expanded to a group practice working with youth, addults, couples and families.
(438) 806-0915 View (438) 806-0915

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Natasha Joan Watson, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Natasha Joan Watson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint-Lazare, QC J7T
Hello! My approach is rooted in empathy and respect, creating a safe space where you feel heard and valued. I work collaboratively with you to explore your thoughts and feelings, helping you develop practical strategies to navigate life's ups and downs. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, relationship difficulties or other challenges, I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way. I work within a humanistic perspective, focusing on the belief that you have the innate capacity and desire for positive change.
Hello! My approach is rooted in empathy and respect, creating a safe space where you feel heard and valued. I work collaboratively with you to explore your thoughts and feelings, helping you develop practical strategies to navigate life's ups and downs. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, relationship difficulties or other challenges, I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way. I work within a humanistic perspective, focusing on the belief that you have the innate capacity and desire for positive change.
(514) 548-3550 View (514) 548-3550

Online Therapists

Photo of Shyam Sampalli Anandampillai - Shyam Anandampillai Psychotherapy and Supervision, MSc(A), MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Shyam Anandampillai Psychotherapy and Supervision
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc(A), MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montréal, QC H2X  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Please remember, therapy can be approached as a preventative solution, or for short-term support initiated by tough life transitions/decision-making or as a longer term aid to deal with past experiences and/or relational traumas.
I believe that psychotherapy in essence is a collaborative process that aims to increase psychological well-being and reduce emotional pain, loneliness and languishing which are ever present in today's world. At the heart of this process, is the positive healing relationship that develops between an individual, a couple or a family, and the therapist. I offer clients a non-judgemental, empathic and queer affirmative space where they learn to identify and tolerate their emotions, articulate appropriately their needs to significant people in their life and work on breaking away from toxic negative cycles.
Please remember, therapy can be approached as a preventative solution, or for short-term support initiated by tough life transitions/decision-making or as a longer term aid to deal with past experiences and/or relational traumas.
I believe that psychotherapy in essence is a collaborative process that aims to increase psychological well-being and reduce emotional pain, loneliness and languishing which are ever present in today's world. At the heart of this process, is the positive healing relationship that develops between an individual, a couple or a family, and the therapist. I offer clients a non-judgemental, empathic and queer affirmative space where they learn to identify and tolerate their emotions, articulate appropriately their needs to significant people in their life and work on breaking away from toxic negative cycles.
(438) 255-0905 View (438) 255-0905
Photo of Mariah Blaine-Longo, MTA, MA
Mariah Blaine-Longo
MTA, MA
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H2K
I specialize in providing music therapy for youth and children, with a focus on queer, trans, and immigrant individuals.
Sometimes words aren’t enough. As a music therapist, I integrate music-making and listening into the therapeutic space to help individuals express themselves creatively, develop coping skills, and reconnect with their authentic selves. Whether we’re listening to music, improvising on instruments, or crafting songs together, each session is thoughtfully tailored to your unique strengths and needs. I’m here to actively listen, support, and reflect, both through music and conversation—no musical experience is necessary.
I specialize in providing music therapy for youth and children, with a focus on queer, trans, and immigrant individuals.
Sometimes words aren’t enough. As a music therapist, I integrate music-making and listening into the therapeutic space to help individuals express themselves creatively, develop coping skills, and reconnect with their authentic selves. Whether we’re listening to music, improvising on instruments, or crafting songs together, each session is thoughtfully tailored to your unique strengths and needs. I’m here to actively listen, support, and reflect, both through music and conversation—no musical experience is necessary.
(438) 701-2835 View (438) 701-2835
Photo of Jordan Gruenhage, MA, CCC, RCC, Counsellor
Jordan Gruenhage
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montréal, QC H2K  (Online Only)
I believe gay men have inherent worth, and that we deserve fulfilling lives.
Are you a gay man who is overwhelmed by the intensity of your feelings? Do certain situations feel triggering or remind you of a past trauma? It can feel unbearable when you’re just trying to keep it together, and hoping nobody notices when you start breathing rapidly, sweating, or shaking. Even between intense moments, there can be a low-level anxiety that feels like it’s always lurking, ready to take over at any time. Not to mention the shame about not feeling in control of your responses. The good news is that there are specific skills that can be learned to listen to your emotions and think about your past in a whole new way.
I believe gay men have inherent worth, and that we deserve fulfilling lives.
Are you a gay man who is overwhelmed by the intensity of your feelings? Do certain situations feel triggering or remind you of a past trauma? It can feel unbearable when you’re just trying to keep it together, and hoping nobody notices when you start breathing rapidly, sweating, or shaking. Even between intense moments, there can be a low-level anxiety that feels like it’s always lurking, ready to take over at any time. Not to mention the shame about not feeling in control of your responses. The good news is that there are specific skills that can be learned to listen to your emotions and think about your past in a whole new way.
(877) 542-8727 View (877) 542-8727
Photo of Michael McCarthy, MA, RDT, CCC, Counsellor
Michael McCarthy
Counsellor, MA, RDT, CCC
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H2L
As a registered drama therapist I combine creative interventions and verbal processing to help individuals process their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, develop coping skills and rehearse for life. Using a client-centred approach, I meet the person where they are, discover their strengths, and facilitate their growth and development. I also help clients foster creativity in their daily lives to encourage wellness. I have experience working with queer and trans folks, individuals living with HIV/AIDS, substance users, those experiencing grief or feeling lost and people having trouble regulating mood, behaviour, and anxiety.
As a registered drama therapist I combine creative interventions and verbal processing to help individuals process their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, develop coping skills and rehearse for life. Using a client-centred approach, I meet the person where they are, discover their strengths, and facilitate their growth and development. I also help clients foster creativity in their daily lives to encourage wellness. I have experience working with queer and trans folks, individuals living with HIV/AIDS, substance users, those experiencing grief or feeling lost and people having trouble regulating mood, behaviour, and anxiety.
View
Photo of Sol Engmann, Counsellor
Sol Engmann
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H2R
We all struggle sometimes and deserve support. Life can be hard, because of a conflict, transition, separation, loss, or because the world's sick and it's a lot harder for some to survive. It can help to talk, feel supported and heard by someone who can validate and understand our reality. I hope to create an environment full of care, including for queer and trans folks and their loved ones, and everyone living at the intersection of one or several forms of oppression. It's crucial for me to recognize and centre the expertise of each person over their own lived experience.
We all struggle sometimes and deserve support. Life can be hard, because of a conflict, transition, separation, loss, or because the world's sick and it's a lot harder for some to survive. It can help to talk, feel supported and heard by someone who can validate and understand our reality. I hope to create an environment full of care, including for queer and trans folks and their loved ones, and everyone living at the intersection of one or several forms of oppression. It's crucial for me to recognize and centre the expertise of each person over their own lived experience.
View
Photo of Giovanni Arcuri, OT, MSc, Occupational Therapist
Giovanni Arcuri
Occupational Therapist, OT, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montréal, QC H3H
I'm a bilingual Occupational Therapist registered with L'Ordre des ergothérapeutes du Québec and I have significant experience in inclusive care and healthcare systems and uses a person-centered approach in my practice. Welcome to all, I can help you with a number of life challenges or even help you advocate for environmental or systemic barriers impacting your functioning. A proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I can help guide persons with functional difficulties, including difficulties due to physical or mental health conditions whether acute or chronic
I'm a bilingual Occupational Therapist registered with L'Ordre des ergothérapeutes du Québec and I have significant experience in inclusive care and healthcare systems and uses a person-centered approach in my practice. Welcome to all, I can help you with a number of life challenges or even help you advocate for environmental or systemic barriers impacting your functioning. A proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I can help guide persons with functional difficulties, including difficulties due to physical or mental health conditions whether acute or chronic
(514) 761-2346 View (514) 761-2346
Photo of Robert Wise - RISE Anxiety & Depression Clinic, MA, CCC, MSW, BSW, RSW
RISE Anxiety & Depression Clinic
MA, CCC, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Roxboro, QC H8Y
We offer same-day or next-day appointments. Our services cater to adults, parents, teenagers, children, couples, and families, emphasizing empowerment, emotional support, collaboration, and a non-judgmental approach. We specialize in assisting individuals who have experienced acute trauma, such as sexual violence and victims of crime, as well as those dealing with complex PTSD. Our practice is LGBTQ+-inclusive and friendly to individuals with diverse sexual orientations, kinks, non-monogamous, and polyamorous lifestyles. We offer flexible appointment scheduling, allowing you to choose between male and female clinicians.
We offer same-day or next-day appointments. Our services cater to adults, parents, teenagers, children, couples, and families, emphasizing empowerment, emotional support, collaboration, and a non-judgmental approach. We specialize in assisting individuals who have experienced acute trauma, such as sexual violence and victims of crime, as well as those dealing with complex PTSD. Our practice is LGBTQ+-inclusive and friendly to individuals with diverse sexual orientations, kinks, non-monogamous, and polyamorous lifestyles. We offer flexible appointment scheduling, allowing you to choose between male and female clinicians.
(438) 230-0252 View (438) 230-0252
Photo of Natasha Williot - Natasha Williot - Dramathérapeute /Drama Therapist, CCC, Counsellor
Natasha Williot - Dramathérapeute /Drama Therapist
Counsellor, CCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Verdun, QC H4H
BDSM-friendly, Kink-friendly, Poly-friendly, Trans-allied, Enby-allied, Indigenous-allied.
Welcome to the ADHD, Autistic, Hypersensitive, and/or Gifted adults who are beginning on their self-discovery journey. Come find a space to put down the masks and feel accepted as you are, including all your diverse social locations and communities. Make peace with your inner child, and grieve the past so you can overflow with love, energy, and creativity. Maybe you feel your throat close when you try to speak and are looking for ways to use stories, characters, movement and art to communicate. Or your head feels like static and you seek clarity and outside perspective that takes into consideration the systems in which we live.
BDSM-friendly, Kink-friendly, Poly-friendly, Trans-allied, Enby-allied, Indigenous-allied.
Welcome to the ADHD, Autistic, Hypersensitive, and/or Gifted adults who are beginning on their self-discovery journey. Come find a space to put down the masks and feel accepted as you are, including all your diverse social locations and communities. Make peace with your inner child, and grieve the past so you can overflow with love, energy, and creativity. Maybe you feel your throat close when you try to speak and are looking for ways to use stories, characters, movement and art to communicate. Or your head feels like static and you seek clarity and outside perspective that takes into consideration the systems in which we live.
(873) 730-3531 View (873) 730-3531
Brianna Frances McGirr
Counsellor, MACP
Verified Verified
Pincourt, QC J7W
Waitlist for new clients
Experienced work with adolescents, LGBTQ+, families, children with special needs, individual therapy, group/family therapy, couples counselling, CBT, DBT.
My goals are to provide a safe, comfortable space to help individuals navigate difficult and vulnerable periods of their lives. Today's world can seem overwhelming, increasing our feelings of stress, anxiety and depression. I help clients better understand their symptoms and psychological wellbeing, to help move forward and manage future difficulties. Presently working as a high school counsellor, supporting students in their socio-emotional needs and helping families work through these processes together.
Experienced work with adolescents, LGBTQ+, families, children with special needs, individual therapy, group/family therapy, couples counselling, CBT, DBT.
My goals are to provide a safe, comfortable space to help individuals navigate difficult and vulnerable periods of their lives. Today's world can seem overwhelming, increasing our feelings of stress, anxiety and depression. I help clients better understand their symptoms and psychological wellbeing, to help move forward and manage future difficulties. Presently working as a high school counsellor, supporting students in their socio-emotional needs and helping families work through these processes together.
(450) 497-0143 View (450) 497-0143
Photo of Marbella Carlos, MA, Art Therapist
Marbella Carlos
Art Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H2L  (Online Only)
My values are anti-oppressive, pro- queer, pro- trans, pro-sex worker, pro-Black, pro-Indigenous, and anti-colonial.
You want a safe, supportive place to work through life’s challenges with someone who genuinely cares about your progress and well-being. Maybe you are struggling with anxiety, stress, body image, relationships, family pressure, and/or overwhelming life changes that can’t be avoided.
My values are anti-oppressive, pro- queer, pro- trans, pro-sex worker, pro-Black, pro-Indigenous, and anti-colonial.
You want a safe, supportive place to work through life’s challenges with someone who genuinely cares about your progress and well-being. Maybe you are struggling with anxiety, stress, body image, relationships, family pressure, and/or overwhelming life changes that can’t be avoided.
(438) 601-5204 View (438) 601-5204
Photo of Zikman Ian - Zikman and Associates Psychology Clinic, MEd, MA, OPQ, QUEBEC, ONTARIO, Psychologist
Zikman and Associates Psychology Clinic
Psychologist, MEd, MA, OPQ, QUEBEC, ONTARIO
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H3G
SAME-WEEK Appointments available. With 15+ years of experience and expertise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), we're dedicated to helping clients lead healthier lives. Within a non-judgmental setting, we'll work with you to alleviate distress caused by personal, social, or workplace issues. We're skilled in treating Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Procrastination, Relationship, and Self-Esteem issues, as well as Academic and Workplace Adjustments. We're also sensitive to the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. We have carefully selected our team of therapists for their knowledge, professionalism, and relatability.
SAME-WEEK Appointments available. With 15+ years of experience and expertise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), we're dedicated to helping clients lead healthier lives. Within a non-judgmental setting, we'll work with you to alleviate distress caused by personal, social, or workplace issues. We're skilled in treating Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Procrastination, Relationship, and Self-Esteem issues, as well as Academic and Workplace Adjustments. We're also sensitive to the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. We have carefully selected our team of therapists for their knowledge, professionalism, and relatability.
(438) 230-1040 View (438) 230-1040
Photo of Parneet Chohan, MA, Counsellor
Parneet Chohan
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montréal, QC H2W
I specialize in systemic trauma including racism, white supremacy, colonization, misogyny, patriarchy, sexism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, ageism and other systemic oppressions that impact us all not just in our nervous system but also interpersonally and in our families and communities.
Hello! I am a certified canadian counsellor, somatic experiencing practitioner and naturotherapist who takes a holistic view on mental health and wellness. I am second-generation Indo-Canadian, non-binary, queer, pansexual, racialized practitioner. I have a lot of experience with polyamory and kink dynamics.
I specialize in systemic trauma including racism, white supremacy, colonization, misogyny, patriarchy, sexism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, ageism and other systemic oppressions that impact us all not just in our nervous system but also interpersonally and in our families and communities.
Hello! I am a certified canadian counsellor, somatic experiencing practitioner and naturotherapist who takes a holistic view on mental health and wellness. I am second-generation Indo-Canadian, non-binary, queer, pansexual, racialized practitioner. I have a lot of experience with polyamory and kink dynamics.
View
Photo of Jackson Hagner, MSW , CFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jackson Hagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW , CFT
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H2S
I aim to create an affirmative space for clients of all genders and sexual orientations and myself am rooted in queer and trans communities in Montreal.
I am a social worker, couple and family therapist, and psychotherapist. Using an attachment lens, I draw on an array of psychotherapeutic practices to support clients in enhancing their relational health, emotional wellbeing, and ability to find safety in close adult relationships, including emotionally focused, trauma-informed/focused, and systemic approaches. My work is grounded in a commitment to social justice, and I seek to foster a compassionate environment for all my clients while recognizing how broader systems of power impact our lives and filter into our relationships.
I aim to create an affirmative space for clients of all genders and sexual orientations and myself am rooted in queer and trans communities in Montreal.
I am a social worker, couple and family therapist, and psychotherapist. Using an attachment lens, I draw on an array of psychotherapeutic practices to support clients in enhancing their relational health, emotional wellbeing, and ability to find safety in close adult relationships, including emotionally focused, trauma-informed/focused, and systemic approaches. My work is grounded in a commitment to social justice, and I seek to foster a compassionate environment for all my clients while recognizing how broader systems of power impact our lives and filter into our relationships.
(438) 814-5997 View (438) 814-5997
Photo of Reida Real Reyes, PsyD, OPQ, Psychologist
Reida Real Reyes
Psychologist, PsyD, OPQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westmount, QC H3Z
You can find courage and strength to transcend any circumstance to create the life you would like.
Feeling that something is missing? Wishing for better relationships and having peace & harmony with yourself and those you love? You can have fulfilling relationships and be able to grow in positive ways!! I can help you create new paths towards a reality of positive changes in your life. Together, we can achieve well-being. You can discover your own strengths and forgotten inner potentials. Change starts with being Real to yourself. I am a licensed psychologist for the OPQ, in Private Practice for 20 years. I completed my doctorate as a Psy.D. for California Southern University.
You can find courage and strength to transcend any circumstance to create the life you would like.
Feeling that something is missing? Wishing for better relationships and having peace & harmony with yourself and those you love? You can have fulfilling relationships and be able to grow in positive ways!! I can help you create new paths towards a reality of positive changes in your life. Together, we can achieve well-being. You can discover your own strengths and forgotten inner potentials. Change starts with being Real to yourself. I am a licensed psychologist for the OPQ, in Private Practice for 20 years. I completed my doctorate as a Psy.D. for California Southern University.
(438) 500-1219 View (438) 500-1219
Photo of Susie Showers, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Susie Showers
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Montréal, QC H2J
With my clinical experience supporting LGBTQ+ folks, as well as my art and theatre background, I have developed an approach combining theatre arts, DBT & somatic techniques help you settle your nervous system so you can prioritize vitality and pleasure.
Your relationships can be an incredible source of pleasure and connection, AND they can be the biggest source of tension and exhaustion. You might feel rigid and uncreative, or be falling into people-pleasing habits. You may feel overwhelming physical sensations of constriction, pain or numbness. You play a vast range of roles in your friendships, romantic & intimate dynamics, and at work. This can be a lot to handle, and you may be masking your authentic self. Creative arts therapy can offer new ways to find playfulness so you can relax into intimacy in your relationships, your body, and fully own the stories that shape you.
With my clinical experience supporting LGBTQ+ folks, as well as my art and theatre background, I have developed an approach combining theatre arts, DBT & somatic techniques help you settle your nervous system so you can prioritize vitality and pleasure.
Your relationships can be an incredible source of pleasure and connection, AND they can be the biggest source of tension and exhaustion. You might feel rigid and uncreative, or be falling into people-pleasing habits. You may feel overwhelming physical sensations of constriction, pain or numbness. You play a vast range of roles in your friendships, romantic & intimate dynamics, and at work. This can be a lot to handle, and you may be masking your authentic self. Creative arts therapy can offer new ways to find playfulness so you can relax into intimacy in your relationships, your body, and fully own the stories that shape you.
View

See more therapy options for Hudson

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.