LGBTQ+ Counselling in Canonbury, London

Photo of Ethan Monroe, Counsellor in Canonbury, London, England
Ethan Monroe
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonbury, London E8
I am a Humanistic Integrative Counsellor & Psychotherapist specialising in working with anxiety, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ folks, however, everybody is welcome.
You might be feeling anxious or flat, maybe you are experiencing unresolved grief, feeling stuck, or perhaps you are unhappy within your relationships (romantic, familial or friendship), whatever it may be, we can begin to acknowledge it together. I will be a facilitator in your therapeutic journey. Together, we will discover the tools and insights that will enable you to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life. I work with individuals, couples and intimate partners. I assist couples and partners in navigating differences in desire and trust concerns, while also aiding those seeking improved communication, security, and connection.
I am a Humanistic Integrative Counsellor & Psychotherapist specialising in working with anxiety, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ folks, however, everybody is welcome.
You might be feeling anxious or flat, maybe you are experiencing unresolved grief, feeling stuck, or perhaps you are unhappy within your relationships (romantic, familial or friendship), whatever it may be, we can begin to acknowledge it together. I will be a facilitator in your therapeutic journey. Together, we will discover the tools and insights that will enable you to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life. I work with individuals, couples and intimate partners. I assist couples and partners in navigating differences in desire and trust concerns, while also aiding those seeking improved communication, security, and connection.
020 3728 8272 View 020 3728 8272
Photo of Robert Thompson, Psychotherapist in Canonbury, London, England
Robert Thompson
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonbury, London N1
I have always had a special interest in working with the LGBTQ+ community.
It's good to talk, but it’s better to be listened to. Carving out the space to focus on ourselves has never been more challenging. Psychotherapy is the chance to do exactly that, a place to build a relationship to safely explore where you are at and where you want to be. I am dedicated to helping you find ways forward that feel positive. I aim to support you in making decisions and to explore new possibilities where sometimes we find ourselves stuck in the same old patterns. I aim to instil confidence and help manage feelings of anxiety or low mood and to imagine a new way forward.
I have always had a special interest in working with the LGBTQ+ community.
It's good to talk, but it’s better to be listened to. Carving out the space to focus on ourselves has never been more challenging. Psychotherapy is the chance to do exactly that, a place to build a relationship to safely explore where you are at and where you want to be. I am dedicated to helping you find ways forward that feel positive. I aim to support you in making decisions and to explore new possibilities where sometimes we find ourselves stuck in the same old patterns. I aim to instil confidence and help manage feelings of anxiety or low mood and to imagine a new way forward.
020 3974 1391 View 020 3974 1391
Photo of George Teare, Counsellor in Canonbury, London, England
George Teare
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canonbury, London N1
I work with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, past or present trauma, shame, and LGBTQIA+ related issues. Life can bring many challenges where you may feel overwhelmed. It may be a specific life event, relationship problems or work related stress; or an ongoing anxiety, depression or low mood that concerns you. Perhaps you have questions of identity? Or perhaps feel your life is lacking purpose? Life can be difficult to navigate and this is where counselling can support you.
I work with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, past or present trauma, shame, and LGBTQIA+ related issues. Life can bring many challenges where you may feel overwhelmed. It may be a specific life event, relationship problems or work related stress; or an ongoing anxiety, depression or low mood that concerns you. Perhaps you have questions of identity? Or perhaps feel your life is lacking purpose? Life can be difficult to navigate and this is where counselling can support you.
020 8138 8768 View 020 8138 8768
Photo of Irit Garty, Counsellor in Canonbury, London, England
Irit Garty
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London N5
I have specific training in sexual and gender diversity with years of experience in an LGBTQ+ organisation.
I provide a safe and confidential space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. If you experience anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma or want to change something about your life I would be able to offer you long or short-term support. My approach embraces human diversity and encourages you to make life choices true to yourself. I believe in counsellor-client collaboration so that we set the pace, the focus and the length of our work together.
I have specific training in sexual and gender diversity with years of experience in an LGBTQ+ organisation.
I provide a safe and confidential space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. If you experience anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma or want to change something about your life I would be able to offer you long or short-term support. My approach embraces human diversity and encourages you to make life choices true to yourself. I believe in counsellor-client collaboration so that we set the pace, the focus and the length of our work together.
020 3870 4489 View 020 3870 4489
Photo of Giorgia C Bertoni, Counsellor in Canonbury, London, England
Giorgia C Bertoni
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London E8  (Online Only)
I'm a psychodynamic therapist working primarily with issues related to sex, intimacy and relationships. I am sex positive and specialise in Gender, Sexuality and Relationship diversity, meaning I'm LGBTQIA+ inclusive, BDSM/Kink conscious, polyamorous/non-monogamous aware and sex worker allied. I have extensive experience working with difficulties such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, poor body image, internalised shame, stigmatisation due to being a sex worker, fear of intimacy, self-harm, trauma and childhood abuse.
I'm a psychodynamic therapist working primarily with issues related to sex, intimacy and relationships. I am sex positive and specialise in Gender, Sexuality and Relationship diversity, meaning I'm LGBTQIA+ inclusive, BDSM/Kink conscious, polyamorous/non-monogamous aware and sex worker allied. I have extensive experience working with difficulties such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, poor body image, internalised shame, stigmatisation due to being a sex worker, fear of intimacy, self-harm, trauma and childhood abuse.
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Photo of Barbara Thorpe-Tracey, Psychotherapist in Canonbury, London, England
Barbara Thorpe-Tracey
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London N7
I welcome exploring all issues of identity and difference and offer an understanding LGBTQIA+ friendly space.
It’s not unusual to feel unsettled and lost in uncertain times. Sometimes troubled relationships at home or work or from the past can bring low or anxious feelings that may prompt you to step back and ask yourself who you really are and what is the way forward. As an Existential Psychotherapist I can be with you to explore how is it for you to be you right now in the world in which you find yourself. What possibilities are open to you? What are your anxious feelings really telling you? How can you be OK with the feelings and situations that make you uncomfortable, or not knowing what the future holds?
I welcome exploring all issues of identity and difference and offer an understanding LGBTQIA+ friendly space.
It’s not unusual to feel unsettled and lost in uncertain times. Sometimes troubled relationships at home or work or from the past can bring low or anxious feelings that may prompt you to step back and ask yourself who you really are and what is the way forward. As an Existential Psychotherapist I can be with you to explore how is it for you to be you right now in the world in which you find yourself. What possibilities are open to you? What are your anxious feelings really telling you? How can you be OK with the feelings and situations that make you uncomfortable, or not knowing what the future holds?
020 4538 6665 View 020 4538 6665
Photo of Meirion Todd, Psychotherapist in Canonbury, London, England
Meirion Todd
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London N1
I identify as gay/queer and am one of few 'out' autistic therapists and am experienced at working affirmatively with LGBTQ+ & Neurodivergent Clients.
I know how daunting first sessions can be so it's my job to help you feel as comfortable as possible. The first session is an opportunity for us to find out a little about each other and for you to decide if I am the right therapist for you. We will discuss how things are for you at the moment, what's brought you to therapy and the things you'd like to work on.I offer a supportive, safe and confidential relationship. I have 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, working initially in the NHS and for the last 8 years I've run a busy private practice in Central London.
I identify as gay/queer and am one of few 'out' autistic therapists and am experienced at working affirmatively with LGBTQ+ & Neurodivergent Clients.
I know how daunting first sessions can be so it's my job to help you feel as comfortable as possible. The first session is an opportunity for us to find out a little about each other and for you to decide if I am the right therapist for you. We will discuss how things are for you at the moment, what's brought you to therapy and the things you'd like to work on.I offer a supportive, safe and confidential relationship. I have 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, working initially in the NHS and for the last 8 years I've run a busy private practice in Central London.
020 3984 9266 View 020 3984 9266
Photo of Samira Belrhazi, Counsellor in Canonbury, London, England
Samira Belrhazi
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London N16  (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with issues of self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD, infidelity, communication, domestic violence, LGBTQ+, gender issues and suicidal thoughts.
Being stuck in a pattern of relating to the self or others that is not serving us any longer is a common human experience. My approach is integrative mainly psychodynamic, meaning I work with a person's defences and resistance in a gentle but challenging way, examining early childhood experiences and relationships. I create a safe non-judgemental space for frank, open and intimate discussions about your issues and struggles.
I am experienced in working with issues of self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD, infidelity, communication, domestic violence, LGBTQ+, gender issues and suicidal thoughts.
Being stuck in a pattern of relating to the self or others that is not serving us any longer is a common human experience. My approach is integrative mainly psychodynamic, meaning I work with a person's defences and resistance in a gentle but challenging way, examining early childhood experiences and relationships. I create a safe non-judgemental space for frank, open and intimate discussions about your issues and struggles.
020 3872 2051 View 020 3872 2051
Photo of Emma Williams, Counsellor in Canonbury, London, England
Emma Williams
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London N1
I am LGBTQIA+ and gender, sexuality and relationship diversity aware and friendly.
We are all influenced by the people in our lives and the experiences we have had both past and present, all of which serve to shape and define us. Sometimes we need help in understanding how the culmination of these factors can get in the way of being able to live life fully and with ease. Maybe you're looking for relief from the pain of anxiety or depression. You could be struggling with life changes or loss. You may want a better relationship with yourself and/or those closest to you. I offer a non-judgemental space in which I can help you to explore your feelings, beliefs and patterns of behaviour.
I am LGBTQIA+ and gender, sexuality and relationship diversity aware and friendly.
We are all influenced by the people in our lives and the experiences we have had both past and present, all of which serve to shape and define us. Sometimes we need help in understanding how the culmination of these factors can get in the way of being able to live life fully and with ease. Maybe you're looking for relief from the pain of anxiety or depression. You could be struggling with life changes or loss. You may want a better relationship with yourself and/or those closest to you. I offer a non-judgemental space in which I can help you to explore your feelings, beliefs and patterns of behaviour.
020 3984 8318 View 020 3984 8318
Photo of Rosalind Simpson, Psychotherapist in Canonbury, London, England
Rosalind Simpson
Psychotherapist, COSRT Accred
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canonbury, London N16
I am LGBTQ+ friendly and open to polyamory, kink/ consensualBDSM.
I work with individuals and couples. Although I specialise in relationship issues including sex and sexuality, I have a vast experience in most other issues including anxiety and depression, stress, trauma and PTSD, phobias and panic, low self esteem and social anxiety, loneliness and loss. I am a sex positive therapist and open to whatever your identification or orientation including kink, polyamory and consensual BDSM. I can help you achieve your goals and reach your full potential. Please contact me for a free 15 minute Zoom or telephone conversation to see if you think you would like working with me or one of my associates.
I am LGBTQ+ friendly and open to polyamory, kink/ consensualBDSM.
I work with individuals and couples. Although I specialise in relationship issues including sex and sexuality, I have a vast experience in most other issues including anxiety and depression, stress, trauma and PTSD, phobias and panic, low self esteem and social anxiety, loneliness and loss. I am a sex positive therapist and open to whatever your identification or orientation including kink, polyamory and consensual BDSM. I can help you achieve your goals and reach your full potential. Please contact me for a free 15 minute Zoom or telephone conversation to see if you think you would like working with me or one of my associates.
020 3856 8640 View 020 3856 8640
Photo of Andrea Lavers, Counsellor in Canonbury, London, England
Andrea Lavers
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London N5  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I’m an LGBTQ+ friendly registered counsellor with over ten years clinical experience. You may struggle with addiction, anxiety, relationship issues or shame. You may have a traumatic history. I am here to offer space to explore this with you. Maybe you don’t know what you want from therapy yet, but you know something isn’t sitting right and you want things to change. Are you needing somewhere it’s safe to connect to your feelings? I believe that connecting with our bodies and emotions is a key to lasting change.
Hi, I’m an LGBTQ+ friendly registered counsellor with over ten years clinical experience. You may struggle with addiction, anxiety, relationship issues or shame. You may have a traumatic history. I am here to offer space to explore this with you. Maybe you don’t know what you want from therapy yet, but you know something isn’t sitting right and you want things to change. Are you needing somewhere it’s safe to connect to your feelings? I believe that connecting with our bodies and emotions is a key to lasting change.
020 3962 0619 View 020 3962 0619
Photo of Valerie Manners, Counsellor in Canonbury, London, England
Valerie Manners
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London N1
Most common areas that I work with are: Generalised Anxiety Disorder; Social anxiety; Health anxiety; Depression; Feeling sad; Low self-esteem; Low self-confidence; Social media anxiety; Panic attacks; Relationship difficulties; Work stress; Low mood; Low motivation; Midlife crisis; Loss of a loved one; Retirement concerns; Eating disorders; LGBTQIA issues;.
On-line CBT Counselling Specialist, Therapeutic Coach and Face to Face Practitioner - MBACP. For 15 years I have been in private practice in Harley Street, London, Marlow in Bucks and Hove in Sussex. I have been offering video consultations via Zoom, WhatsApp and other platforms for many years. This has the advantage of being conducted at your convenience from your own front room. You can choose the platform that you are most familiar with e.g. Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp or Skype. Cognitive behavioural therapy is proven to make a big difference to anxiety and depression and it is also approved by the NHS.
Most common areas that I work with are: Generalised Anxiety Disorder; Social anxiety; Health anxiety; Depression; Feeling sad; Low self-esteem; Low self-confidence; Social media anxiety; Panic attacks; Relationship difficulties; Work stress; Low mood; Low motivation; Midlife crisis; Loss of a loved one; Retirement concerns; Eating disorders; LGBTQIA issues;.
On-line CBT Counselling Specialist, Therapeutic Coach and Face to Face Practitioner - MBACP. For 15 years I have been in private practice in Harley Street, London, Marlow in Bucks and Hove in Sussex. I have been offering video consultations via Zoom, WhatsApp and other platforms for many years. This has the advantage of being conducted at your convenience from your own front room. You can choose the platform that you are most familiar with e.g. Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp or Skype. Cognitive behavioural therapy is proven to make a big difference to anxiety and depression and it is also approved by the NHS.
01494 360824 View 01494 360824
Photo of David Integrative Counsellor In Finsbury Park, Counsellor in Canonbury, London, England
David Integrative Counsellor In Finsbury Park
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London N5
But also, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, anger, bullying, stress, loss, addiction, and LGBTQ related Issues.
Does it feel like things are getting too difficult for you? I want to offer you a safe environment in which to explore without fear any issues, problems or challenges that are causing you distress. I believe that when you are truly listened to in a confidential and non-judgemental way you can work through the difficulties gaining an invaluable insight into yourself building the resources you need for the future. Together we can explore what is going on for you, how present circumstances are preventing you from breaking the cycle. I have experience working with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, family issues, and emotional abuse.
But also, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, anger, bullying, stress, loss, addiction, and LGBTQ related Issues.
Does it feel like things are getting too difficult for you? I want to offer you a safe environment in which to explore without fear any issues, problems or challenges that are causing you distress. I believe that when you are truly listened to in a confidential and non-judgemental way you can work through the difficulties gaining an invaluable insight into yourself building the resources you need for the future. Together we can explore what is going on for you, how present circumstances are preventing you from breaking the cycle. I have experience working with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, family issues, and emotional abuse.
020 3835 5981 View 020 3835 5981
Photo of Gareth Prosser, Psychotherapist in Canonbury, London, England
Gareth Prosser
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London E8  (Online Only)
I am a Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist holding an accreditation with Pink Therapy as a Gender, Sexuality and Relationship Diversity (GSRD) therapist. I hold a diploma at the Contemporary Institute of Clinical Sexology (CICS) in Compulsive Sexual Behaviours, accredited by the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists (COSRT). My core training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy was at the The Bowlby Centre in London, with a specialism in Attachment. My clinical approach incorporates different techniques and approaches relevant for the individual needs, mirroring the complexity of human experience and ever expanding self knowledge .
I am a Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist holding an accreditation with Pink Therapy as a Gender, Sexuality and Relationship Diversity (GSRD) therapist. I hold a diploma at the Contemporary Institute of Clinical Sexology (CICS) in Compulsive Sexual Behaviours, accredited by the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists (COSRT). My core training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy was at the The Bowlby Centre in London, with a specialism in Attachment. My clinical approach incorporates different techniques and approaches relevant for the individual needs, mirroring the complexity of human experience and ever expanding self knowledge .
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Photo of ACT CBT online Clinical Psychologist Dr Phil Lurie, Psychologist in Canonbury, London, England
ACT CBT online Clinical Psychologist Dr Phil Lurie
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London N1  (Online Only)
Therapy can be a daunting but enriching experience, and I hope that I can help you improve your well-being! I pride myself on making sessions affordable, informative, practical, reflective, challenging, and life-affirming. I will also give you ideas and exercises for in-between sessions, which is where a lot of the change happens. I am integral and compassionate and only offer strategies and new ways of thinking that I would welcome for myself. And I will also include more 'existential' questions about your values, purpose, joy, creativity and connections in your life. Please contact me to organise an initial assessment session.
Therapy can be a daunting but enriching experience, and I hope that I can help you improve your well-being! I pride myself on making sessions affordable, informative, practical, reflective, challenging, and life-affirming. I will also give you ideas and exercises for in-between sessions, which is where a lot of the change happens. I am integral and compassionate and only offer strategies and new ways of thinking that I would welcome for myself. And I will also include more 'existential' questions about your values, purpose, joy, creativity and connections in your life. Please contact me to organise an initial assessment session.
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Photo of Eleanor Ord, Psychotherapist in Canonbury, London, England
Eleanor Ord
Psychotherapist, MSc, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London E8
There are many reasons you may be looking for a therapist, and no “right reason” to seek help. You may have specific aims for your therapy, or you may not be sure why life is feeling challenging. Pain and struggle are natural parts of the human experience, but we can also be incredibly creative when it comes to trying to protect ourselves, and avoiding difficult feelings. Maybe you want a space where you can talk and be heard. Whatever brings you to my room, I provide a safe and collaborative space to explore your experiences.
There are many reasons you may be looking for a therapist, and no “right reason” to seek help. You may have specific aims for your therapy, or you may not be sure why life is feeling challenging. Pain and struggle are natural parts of the human experience, but we can also be incredibly creative when it comes to trying to protect ourselves, and avoiding difficult feelings. Maybe you want a space where you can talk and be heard. Whatever brings you to my room, I provide a safe and collaborative space to explore your experiences.
020 3835 5489 View 020 3835 5489
Photo of Rosanna Singler, Psychotherapist in Canonbury, London, England
Rosanna Singler
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London E8
I am an integrative psychotherapist and counsellor, with several years’ experience supporting individuals privately and in the voluntary sector. I provide therapy which is accepting and supportive to enable you to safely and creatively explore what it is you are struggling with. We can all become stuck or disconnected at times. Therapy can help us slow down for a moment, feel safe enough to re-connect with ourselves. It is then possible to reflect and discover what it is our bodies are telling us we need to move towards change or to feel freer in ourselves. I provide short, medium, long-term and open-ended therapy to adults.
I am an integrative psychotherapist and counsellor, with several years’ experience supporting individuals privately and in the voluntary sector. I provide therapy which is accepting and supportive to enable you to safely and creatively explore what it is you are struggling with. We can all become stuck or disconnected at times. Therapy can help us slow down for a moment, feel safe enough to re-connect with ourselves. It is then possible to reflect and discover what it is our bodies are telling us we need to move towards change or to feel freer in ourselves. I provide short, medium, long-term and open-ended therapy to adults.
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Photo of Kath Gifford, Counsellor in Canonbury, London, England
Kath Gifford
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Canonbury, London E8
Feeling anxious and finding it hard to get through the day? Have a sense of being "stuck" and difficulty in knowing what you really want? Perhaps you can't quite put your finger on what's not working for you at the moment, but you know things could be better. When you're in this situation, it can be useful to explore more difficult aspects of life with a qualified counsellor in a warm and non-judgmental setting.
Feeling anxious and finding it hard to get through the day? Have a sense of being "stuck" and difficulty in knowing what you really want? Perhaps you can't quite put your finger on what's not working for you at the moment, but you know things could be better. When you're in this situation, it can be useful to explore more difficult aspects of life with a qualified counsellor in a warm and non-judgmental setting.
020 3828 7487 View 020 3828 7487
Photo of Lirona Rosenthal, Psychologist in Canonbury, London, England
Lirona Rosenthal
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonbury, London N5  (Online Only)
I have 15 years of experience in private practice, Working as an integrative psychologist, combining therapy approaches to fit my client’s needs best. With a background in theater and sports, I am an active, creative and engaging therapist. ​Please check out my website for info about me: www.lironarosenthal.com
I have 15 years of experience in private practice, Working as an integrative psychologist, combining therapy approaches to fit my client’s needs best. With a background in theater and sports, I am an active, creative and engaging therapist. ​Please check out my website for info about me: www.lironarosenthal.com
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Photo of David Cooper, Counsellor in Canonbury, London, England
David Cooper
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Canonbury, London E8
Hi I’m David. I work with diverse clients with diverse reasons for seeking therapy. I provide a warm and inclusive, confidential space that is sensitive to you and your needs. I believe we all possess the capacity to self-heal and that sometimes these resources within us become blocked. In a safe and supportive relationship we can start to become aware of these restrictive barriers and in time remove them, allowing our own resources and strengths to emerge. I have significant experience in providing therapy through various services across London and in private practice working with issues such as:
Hi I’m David. I work with diverse clients with diverse reasons for seeking therapy. I provide a warm and inclusive, confidential space that is sensitive to you and your needs. I believe we all possess the capacity to self-heal and that sometimes these resources within us become blocked. In a safe and supportive relationship we can start to become aware of these restrictive barriers and in time remove them, allowing our own resources and strengths to emerge. I have significant experience in providing therapy through various services across London and in private practice working with issues such as:
020 4592 8951 View 020 4592 8951

See more therapy options for Canonbury, London

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.