LGBTQ+ Affirming Counsellors in Pickering, ENG

Photo of Kay Farquharson, Psychologist in Pickering, England
Kay Farquharson
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Pickering YO18
Hello and thank you for checking my details. I am an experienced Doctoral Psychologist working regularly in Ryedale and area with anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating & body concerns, bereavement, loss and trauma, (including childhood issues). I have additional training, experience and working knowledge in both trauma and all forms of dissociation. Psychological therapy is a highly effective means of dealing with emotional issues and my work is dedicated to offering a professional, confidential service, helping people to deal with problems and gain the insight needed to build healthier more fulfilling lives.
Hello and thank you for checking my details. I am an experienced Doctoral Psychologist working regularly in Ryedale and area with anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating & body concerns, bereavement, loss and trauma, (including childhood issues). I have additional training, experience and working knowledge in both trauma and all forms of dissociation. Psychological therapy is a highly effective means of dealing with emotional issues and my work is dedicated to offering a professional, confidential service, helping people to deal with problems and gain the insight needed to build healthier more fulfilling lives.
01904 929211 View 01904 929211
Photo of Sheron Veail, Counsellor in Pickering, England
Sheron Veail
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Pickering YO18
Sometimes we all need a little help, juggling the pressures responsibilities of work, families and relationships. Are you looking for someone to help you understand your anxiety or depression. I work as a Person Centred Counsellor/Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I work with depression, bereavement, general anxiety disorder (GAD) relationship issues, children (bullying/self-harm) and anxiety. Counselling can help alleviate some of the most distressing symptoms that people feel and allow you to see things from a different perspective. Therapy can help start this process of developing insight and self-awareness about your situation.
Sometimes we all need a little help, juggling the pressures responsibilities of work, families and relationships. Are you looking for someone to help you understand your anxiety or depression. I work as a Person Centred Counsellor/Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I work with depression, bereavement, general anxiety disorder (GAD) relationship issues, children (bullying/self-harm) and anxiety. Counselling can help alleviate some of the most distressing symptoms that people feel and allow you to see things from a different perspective. Therapy can help start this process of developing insight and self-awareness about your situation.
0113 519 0937 View 0113 519 0937
Photo of Counselling by Jane & Animal Assisted Therapy, Counsellor in Pickering, England
Counselling by Jane & Animal Assisted Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Pickering YO18
I am a Senior Accredited Counsellor. By talking & exploring your thoughts & feelings, you will discover underlying issues and discover strategies and new ways to cope & manage better. Therapy will help you gain a true sense of self & discover your potential. Any negative experiences or self-doubts you have, we will work through together so you overcome & find a more positive direction. Therapy will empower you to take control of your life. Therapy pets are available to sit with you throughout your sessions. I’m trained in Rewind Therapy for trauma. I hold a Certificate & Diploma in Supervision should any therapists require support.
I am a Senior Accredited Counsellor. By talking & exploring your thoughts & feelings, you will discover underlying issues and discover strategies and new ways to cope & manage better. Therapy will help you gain a true sense of self & discover your potential. Any negative experiences or self-doubts you have, we will work through together so you overcome & find a more positive direction. Therapy will empower you to take control of your life. Therapy pets are available to sit with you throughout your sessions. I’m trained in Rewind Therapy for trauma. I hold a Certificate & Diploma in Supervision should any therapists require support.
01723 333046 View 01723 333046
Photo of Carolyn Knaggs, Counsellor in Pickering, England
Carolyn Knaggs
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Pickering YO18
The aim of sessions is to work towards an understanding of the challenges you face and the changes you wish to make. During sessions, you will be the focus of our attentions and I will value you without judgement, as a unique person, an equal. Having been in counselling myself, I have an understanding of the process. It can be a daunting prospect, and I will support you in that journey. I have listed many specialities and whilst I do have experience of working with them, I believe there is more to you than a "diagnosis" or an "issue" so the focus is on you the whole person, and whatever you choose to bring. NOTE - OVER 18'S ONLY
The aim of sessions is to work towards an understanding of the challenges you face and the changes you wish to make. During sessions, you will be the focus of our attentions and I will value you without judgement, as a unique person, an equal. Having been in counselling myself, I have an understanding of the process. It can be a daunting prospect, and I will support you in that journey. I have listed many specialities and whilst I do have experience of working with them, I believe there is more to you than a "diagnosis" or an "issue" so the focus is on you the whole person, and whatever you choose to bring. NOTE - OVER 18'S ONLY
01723 332928 View 01723 332928

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Helen Moss, Psychotherapist in Pickering, England
Helen Moss
Psychotherapist, MA, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
York YO17
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Helen, a gestalt psychotherapist in advanced training. I offer a safe, inclusive, non-judgmental space, where I can support you to more deeply understand the situations that have brought you to therapy. I am committed to trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, neurodivergent-aware and queer-affirmative practices.
I'm Helen, a gestalt psychotherapist in advanced training. I offer a safe, inclusive, non-judgmental space, where I can support you to more deeply understand the situations that have brought you to therapy. I am committed to trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, neurodivergent-aware and queer-affirmative practices.
01347 668125 View 01347 668125
Photo of Sue Morris, Counsellor in Pickering, England
Sue Morris
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Malton YO17
Life can be hard at times. We can experience loss, changes in our health, family circumstances or work life. Maybe our relationships are not fulfilling our needs and we do not know how to change things. At times, we don’t feel good about ourselves, we lose confidence in our ability to cope with life or maybe we feel impacted by past experiences or held back through feelings of anger, shame or guilt. Sometimes we don’t know what’s wrong, but we just know something isn’t right. I can help you explore what is going on for you by giving you a supportive space to talk and be heard.
Life can be hard at times. We can experience loss, changes in our health, family circumstances or work life. Maybe our relationships are not fulfilling our needs and we do not know how to change things. At times, we don’t feel good about ourselves, we lose confidence in our ability to cope with life or maybe we feel impacted by past experiences or held back through feelings of anger, shame or guilt. Sometimes we don’t know what’s wrong, but we just know something isn’t right. I can help you explore what is going on for you by giving you a supportive space to talk and be heard.
01904 221277 View 01904 221277
Photo of Juliet D Bloom, Psychotherapist in Pickering, England
Juliet D Bloom
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Malton YO17
Maybe the journey isn't about becoming anything. Maybe it's about unbecoming everything that isn't really you, so you can be who you were meant to be all along. Our lives present unique challenges – relationship difficulties, bereavements, life transitions, & chronic symptoms - often creating feelings of frustration, anxiety, & sadness. At such times it is easy to forget that we all need assistance in addressing these challenges, especially as they can often feel overwhelming, or even impossible, to deal with. We all deserve to have support when we are struggling, & often it is specifically this support that allows change to occur.
Maybe the journey isn't about becoming anything. Maybe it's about unbecoming everything that isn't really you, so you can be who you were meant to be all along. Our lives present unique challenges – relationship difficulties, bereavements, life transitions, & chronic symptoms - often creating feelings of frustration, anxiety, & sadness. At such times it is easy to forget that we all need assistance in addressing these challenges, especially as they can often feel overwhelming, or even impossible, to deal with. We all deserve to have support when we are struggling, & often it is specifically this support that allows change to occur.
01723 334682 View 01723 334682

Online Therapists

Photo of Richard Hall, Psychotherapist in Pickering, England
Richard Hall
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Manchester M1
I am a Counsellor and Psychotherapist based in Manchester City Centre, working both in person and online. You may be struggling with a specific issue or pattern of behaviour and know already what you would like to talk about. Alternatively, you may simply be feeling down and low and need support with processing your feelings and emotions. Counselling may be able to offer a fresh perspective, or support you to make changes needed to get you to a better place. I work with women and men from all backgrounds, in a range of areas. I have worked closely with male issues and have experience working with gender diversity and LGBT+ issues.
I am a Counsellor and Psychotherapist based in Manchester City Centre, working both in person and online. You may be struggling with a specific issue or pattern of behaviour and know already what you would like to talk about. Alternatively, you may simply be feeling down and low and need support with processing your feelings and emotions. Counselling may be able to offer a fresh perspective, or support you to make changes needed to get you to a better place. I work with women and men from all backgrounds, in a range of areas. I have worked closely with male issues and have experience working with gender diversity and LGBT+ issues.
0161 524 5158 View 0161 524 5158
Photo of Talking Spaces - Counselling For Men, Counsellor in Pickering, England
Talking Spaces - Counselling For Men
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hartlepool TS25
We offer help and support for a wide range of mental health issues such as anger management, gambling problems, substance misuse, anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, post traumatic stress disorder, domestic abuse, gay affirmative therapy, social anxiety, stress and burnout, divorce, sexual performance anxiety and relationship counselling.
Empowering men to navigate life's challenges with confidence and clarity. Talking Spaces is an accessible counselling specialist service for men’s mental health, available in person or via Zoom. Generally men by nature are more action focused, so when it comes to managing difficult life events and emotions I use action and solution based therapeutic approaches and interventions when working with men’s mental health issues. Men need a service with the knowledge understand that social and cultural norms and ingrained beliefs about masculinity are one of the main barriers to seeking counselling in the first place.
We offer help and support for a wide range of mental health issues such as anger management, gambling problems, substance misuse, anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, post traumatic stress disorder, domestic abuse, gay affirmative therapy, social anxiety, stress and burnout, divorce, sexual performance anxiety and relationship counselling.
Empowering men to navigate life's challenges with confidence and clarity. Talking Spaces is an accessible counselling specialist service for men’s mental health, available in person or via Zoom. Generally men by nature are more action focused, so when it comes to managing difficult life events and emotions I use action and solution based therapeutic approaches and interventions when working with men’s mental health issues. Men need a service with the knowledge understand that social and cultural norms and ingrained beliefs about masculinity are one of the main barriers to seeking counselling in the first place.
01429 806967 View 01429 806967
Photo of Darren Good, Psychotherapist in Pickering, England
Darren Good
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Manchester M21  (Online Only)
As a gay man, I can understand the impact of being a minority, particularly on self-esteem and relationships, and I have a special interest in supporting other queer men navigating love and sex, in all the diverse and unconventional ways that occur.
What if you accepted every part of yourself, even those you hide from the world? What might be possible? Modern life can be challenging, with its demands, expectations and technology, but self-discovery can lead to learning, growth and a greater sense of ease. I can be your calm companion as you explore the areas of life that need attention, helping you connect with others and feel more belonging. My approach is person-centred and acknowledges how childhood experiences shape our adulthood, so that therapy will partly involve coming to terms with the past and how it affects the present.
As a gay man, I can understand the impact of being a minority, particularly on self-esteem and relationships, and I have a special interest in supporting other queer men navigating love and sex, in all the diverse and unconventional ways that occur.
What if you accepted every part of yourself, even those you hide from the world? What might be possible? Modern life can be challenging, with its demands, expectations and technology, but self-discovery can lead to learning, growth and a greater sense of ease. I can be your calm companion as you explore the areas of life that need attention, helping you connect with others and feel more belonging. My approach is person-centred and acknowledges how childhood experiences shape our adulthood, so that therapy will partly involve coming to terms with the past and how it affects the present.
0161 524 3376 View 0161 524 3376
Photo of Rajan Rai | Individuals And Couples, Psychotherapist in Pickering, England
Rajan Rai | Individuals And Couples
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
Hello! I’m Raj, and I am UKCP registered. I offer face-to-face individual & couples counselling sessions at two locations in Nottingham as well as online. With individuals, I work with (but not limited to): Depression & Anxiety; Relationship Issues; LGBTQIA+ - related Issues; Racial and cultural issues/conflicts; Low self-esteem; Lack of fulfilment. With couples, typical issues include:  affairs; conflict & anger; poor communication; life transitions; sexual difficulties; separation & divorce.
Hello! I’m Raj, and I am UKCP registered. I offer face-to-face individual & couples counselling sessions at two locations in Nottingham as well as online. With individuals, I work with (but not limited to): Depression & Anxiety; Relationship Issues; LGBTQIA+ - related Issues; Racial and cultural issues/conflicts; Low self-esteem; Lack of fulfilment. With couples, typical issues include:  affairs; conflict & anger; poor communication; life transitions; sexual difficulties; separation & divorce.
01777 809417 View 01777 809417
Photo of Addiction Counselling- Karl Markwell, Counsellor in Pickering, England
Addiction Counselling- Karl Markwell
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlisle CA1  (Online Only)
Addiction can leave us feeling helpless and hopeless. We look look to rebuild the relationships we have damaged and time that we have lost. Explore the causes and solutions to the behaviours that are causing us and those we love harm. Maybe you're a friend or family member of someone suffering from addiction and would like support and guidance on how best to help your loved one? Maybe you've been to treatment for your addiction and wish to continue the work you have started, or you are in long-term recovery and need the support of someone who understands your past. Perhaps you need a therapist that specialises in LGBTQ+ issues.
Addiction can leave us feeling helpless and hopeless. We look look to rebuild the relationships we have damaged and time that we have lost. Explore the causes and solutions to the behaviours that are causing us and those we love harm. Maybe you're a friend or family member of someone suffering from addiction and would like support and guidance on how best to help your loved one? Maybe you've been to treatment for your addiction and wish to continue the work you have started, or you are in long-term recovery and need the support of someone who understands your past. Perhaps you need a therapist that specialises in LGBTQ+ issues.
023 9200 1784 View 023 9200 1784
Photo of Stephen Griffiths Swgcounselling, Counsellor in Pickering, England
Stephen Griffiths Swgcounselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester M20
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Counsellor based in Manchester offering In person and online sessions. Life can be challenging, and in places it can feel intolerable and overwhelming it can be difficult to know where to start unravelling this, how to make changes, what changes, if any, we need to make, and to try to make sense of why we feel the way that we do. This can be a very painful experience but however dark it may be today, doesn't mean tomorrow won't be lighter, counselling can offer an opportunity to be heard and to be understood. I work with clients from all backgrounds but have particular experience working with Addiction and with LGBT+ issues.
I am a Counsellor based in Manchester offering In person and online sessions. Life can be challenging, and in places it can feel intolerable and overwhelming it can be difficult to know where to start unravelling this, how to make changes, what changes, if any, we need to make, and to try to make sense of why we feel the way that we do. This can be a very painful experience but however dark it may be today, doesn't mean tomorrow won't be lighter, counselling can offer an opportunity to be heard and to be understood. I work with clients from all backgrounds but have particular experience working with Addiction and with LGBT+ issues.
01707 247146 View 01707 247146
Photo of kbg counselling services, Counsellor in Pickering, England
kbg counselling services
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Burnley BB11
Are you a member of the LGBTQ community looking for therapy? I have worked at both the LGBT Foundation and also in private practice, some issues clients have come to me with include self-identity, I understand the different pronouns, terminology and subsections that people associate with. Worries and fears of coming out to family and friends, social stigma and also negotiating diverse relationships. Working together I can support you to build your self-worth, confidence and to become your true self. I also support straight couples with communication, conflict and worries about relationship breakdown.
Are you a member of the LGBTQ community looking for therapy? I have worked at both the LGBT Foundation and also in private practice, some issues clients have come to me with include self-identity, I understand the different pronouns, terminology and subsections that people associate with. Worries and fears of coming out to family and friends, social stigma and also negotiating diverse relationships. Working together I can support you to build your self-worth, confidence and to become your true self. I also support straight couples with communication, conflict and worries about relationship breakdown.
01282 526840 View 01282 526840
Photo of Kingsley Boateng, Counsellor in Pickering, England
Kingsley Boateng
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
South Shields NE33
I am experienced in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBT-related issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence.
I am a fully accredited and qualified Counsellor and a Hypnotherapist. With these two skills, clients can choose what they feel works best for them, and my evaluations of every session involve them. Are you struggling with Loss of any kind? Is anxiety your primary issue affecting your everyday life? Or are you struggling to accept or come to terms with your sexuality? Marking Therapy is a safe space for you—a space where you can be yourself without holding back. I can also support you in dealing with all forms of addiction, body image/ confidence, smoke cessation and many more.
I am experienced in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBT-related issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence.
I am a fully accredited and qualified Counsellor and a Hypnotherapist. With these two skills, clients can choose what they feel works best for them, and my evaluations of every session involve them. Are you struggling with Loss of any kind? Is anxiety your primary issue affecting your everyday life? Or are you struggling to accept or come to terms with your sexuality? Marking Therapy is a safe space for you—a space where you can be yourself without holding back. I can also support you in dealing with all forms of addiction, body image/ confidence, smoke cessation and many more.
0191 743 9511 View 0191 743 9511
Photo of Lucas Voclere Counselling & Psychotherapy (Online) in Pickering, England
Lucas Voclere Counselling & Psychotherapy (Online)
Verified Verified
Manchester M3  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Queer French Neurodivergent Online Counsellor, I focus on personal development, gender & sexual identity, relationships (including polyamory/ENM/CNM), sexuality, neurodiversity, and cultural identity (including expat life).
Are you struggling with your life, self-esteem or relationships? To understand who you are, your needs, how to cope & improve your life? Do you need an existential therapy balancing survival & aliveness dedicated to help you embrace & empower your unique diversity (Gender, Sexual, Cultural... - Polyamory/ENM/CNM - Neurodiversity - Intersectionality...)? Then you could benefit from the humanistic & integrative therapy I offer with my passion for diversity, belonging, purpose, relationships & personal development. I offer a holding safe space with no judgments and the acceptance of everything you are, have lived & want to achieve.
Queer French Neurodivergent Online Counsellor, I focus on personal development, gender & sexual identity, relationships (including polyamory/ENM/CNM), sexuality, neurodiversity, and cultural identity (including expat life).
Are you struggling with your life, self-esteem or relationships? To understand who you are, your needs, how to cope & improve your life? Do you need an existential therapy balancing survival & aliveness dedicated to help you embrace & empower your unique diversity (Gender, Sexual, Cultural... - Polyamory/ENM/CNM - Neurodiversity - Intersectionality...)? Then you could benefit from the humanistic & integrative therapy I offer with my passion for diversity, belonging, purpose, relationships & personal development. I offer a holding safe space with no judgments and the acceptance of everything you are, have lived & want to achieve.
0117 456 2963 x44 View 0117 456 2963 x44
Photo of Alex Sanderson-Shortt, Counsellor in Pickering, England
Alex Sanderson-Shortt
Counsellor, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Northwich CW9
Waitlist for new clients
I am a highly experienced relationship counsellor and supervisor who works with couples, individuals and polyamorous/open relationships across a range of issues. I specialise in working with LGBT clients and those in open and poly relationships. I work effectively and non-judgementally with affairs and betrayal, communication issues, family and work pressures, anxiety and depression etc. I work in a sex positive way with sexual issues as part of relationship therapy and work with kink clients and sex workers.
I am a highly experienced relationship counsellor and supervisor who works with couples, individuals and polyamorous/open relationships across a range of issues. I specialise in working with LGBT clients and those in open and poly relationships. I work effectively and non-judgementally with affairs and betrayal, communication issues, family and work pressures, anxiety and depression etc. I work in a sex positive way with sexual issues as part of relationship therapy and work with kink clients and sex workers.
01606 532680 View 01606 532680
Photo of Austen Miall, Psychotherapist in Pickering, England
Austen Miall
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Manchester M4
My name is Austen and I provide Psychotherapy to individuals & couples in Manchester and Online. I qualified as a therapist in 2011 and my particular skill is helping clients to process sensitive or embarrassing issues. I have undertaken training in Trauma, Emotional Regulation and Sexuality related problems. My specialist areas are; Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sex/Porn Addiction, Erectile Dysfunction and Kink-Related Shame. Many of my clients have previous experience of therapy and are seeking a therapist with specific skills and a therapeutic approach that is focused. I'm Gay and my clients are heterosexual and LGBT+.
My name is Austen and I provide Psychotherapy to individuals & couples in Manchester and Online. I qualified as a therapist in 2011 and my particular skill is helping clients to process sensitive or embarrassing issues. I have undertaken training in Trauma, Emotional Regulation and Sexuality related problems. My specialist areas are; Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sex/Porn Addiction, Erectile Dysfunction and Kink-Related Shame. Many of my clients have previous experience of therapy and are seeking a therapist with specific skills and a therapeutic approach that is focused. I'm Gay and my clients are heterosexual and LGBT+.
01484 627039 View 01484 627039
Photo of Craig Budzik, Counsellor in Pickering, England
Craig Budzik
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Manchester M1
I’m part of the LGBT+ community, identifying as cis gay man using he/him pronouns.
Counselling and Psychotherapy can be a powerful way to heal through talking. My approach is integrative and brings together different approaches, styles and ideologies. Not just from the Counselling and Psychotherapeutic sphere, but also from the spiritual sphere. I believe that human wellness is multidimensional. No singular event, element or experience of living can truly cause wellness or suffering. It’s a complex interplay between various factors which make up our experience of life.
I’m part of the LGBT+ community, identifying as cis gay man using he/him pronouns.
Counselling and Psychotherapy can be a powerful way to heal through talking. My approach is integrative and brings together different approaches, styles and ideologies. Not just from the Counselling and Psychotherapeutic sphere, but also from the spiritual sphere. I believe that human wellness is multidimensional. No singular event, element or experience of living can truly cause wellness or suffering. It’s a complex interplay between various factors which make up our experience of life.
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Photo of Richard Hobbs, Psychologist in Pickering, England
Richard Hobbs
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester M4  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Richard. I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist and I work with a range of people who have had challenging moments in their lives. My specialties include supporting people who live with chronic health conditions or life changing injuries. I have worked in the NHS for over 10 years, working with patients in a wide range of circumstances including those undergoing treatment for conditions such as cancer and diabetes, as well as those in palliative care and in surgical settings. I have seen a range of issues including anxiety, low mood and depression, loss, grief and trauma. I also work extensively with LGBTQ people.
Hi, I’m Richard. I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist and I work with a range of people who have had challenging moments in their lives. My specialties include supporting people who live with chronic health conditions or life changing injuries. I have worked in the NHS for over 10 years, working with patients in a wide range of circumstances including those undergoing treatment for conditions such as cancer and diabetes, as well as those in palliative care and in surgical settings. I have seen a range of issues including anxiety, low mood and depression, loss, grief and trauma. I also work extensively with LGBTQ people.
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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.