Therapists in Calgary, AB
Mackenzie Kuzyk
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BSW, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3K (Online Only)
As a queer Indigenous person, I value relationality immensely and believe great healing can be done when in relationship.
Areas of Focus: Indigenous Counselling, Trauma (including intergenerational, racism, impacts of heteronormativity/cisnormativity), 2SLGBTQ+ Affirming/Identity Exploration, Cultural Identity Exploration. I am a Two Spirit and Indigiqueer human who resides in Moh’kins’tsis (Calgary, Alberta). I come from mixed ancestry and am French, Irish, and Mi’kmaq. My Nation is in the south of Newfoundland at the mouth of the Conne River and is called Miawpukek First Nation. I am a white-presenting Indigenous person which has allocated me privilege in my life and has shaped my experiences.
As a queer Indigenous person, I value relationality immensely and believe great healing can be done when in relationship.
Areas of Focus: Indigenous Counselling, Trauma (including intergenerational, racism, impacts of heteronormativity/cisnormativity), 2SLGBTQ+ Affirming/Identity Exploration, Cultural Identity Exploration. I am a Two Spirit and Indigiqueer human who resides in Moh’kins’tsis (Calgary, Alberta). I come from mixed ancestry and am French, Irish, and Mi’kmaq. My Nation is in the south of Newfoundland at the mouth of the Conne River and is called Miawpukek First Nation. I am a white-presenting Indigenous person which has allocated me privilege in my life and has shaped my experiences.
Cody Farrell
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2R (Online Only)
Specializing in addiction/substance use, LGBTQ+ identities, anxiety, depression and trauma, I would be happy to work with you.
I strive to work with individuals who are looking to better understand their personal and social identity. Emphasis in the counselling field is often given to learning new thought patterns and coping skills. While I do this in my practice and find it effective, I also discuss the concept of 'unlearning' and its importance for growth, allowing us to create a new foundation which is centred on self-awareness. When we unlearn these 'autopilot' ways of responding to situations, we can create a reality where we are actively in the driver’s seat to create the lifestyle and connections that we find authentic, meaningful and long-lasting.
Specializing in addiction/substance use, LGBTQ+ identities, anxiety, depression and trauma, I would be happy to work with you.
I strive to work with individuals who are looking to better understand their personal and social identity. Emphasis in the counselling field is often given to learning new thought patterns and coping skills. While I do this in my practice and find it effective, I also discuss the concept of 'unlearning' and its importance for growth, allowing us to create a new foundation which is centred on self-awareness. When we unlearn these 'autopilot' ways of responding to situations, we can create a reality where we are actively in the driver’s seat to create the lifestyle and connections that we find authentic, meaningful and long-lasting.
McKenzie Lukacs
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2G
As a queer therapist, I understand the challenges of finding inclusive support and the transformative effects of collaborative therapy. I believe the most powerful aspect of therapy is a therapeutic partnership that learns and grows together. This means that I will bring my whole self into our work together and join you in your exploration and identify the things that matter to you. Healing and growth happen in the presence of safety and being truly seen and understood. I offer an anti-oppressive, queer, intersectional, and social justice approach to counselling.
As a queer therapist, I understand the challenges of finding inclusive support and the transformative effects of collaborative therapy. I believe the most powerful aspect of therapy is a therapeutic partnership that learns and grows together. This means that I will bring my whole self into our work together and join you in your exploration and identify the things that matter to you. Healing and growth happen in the presence of safety and being truly seen and understood. I offer an anti-oppressive, queer, intersectional, and social justice approach to counselling.
Jordan Gruenhage
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2R (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.
Victor Wakarchuk
Counsellor, RCC, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2R (Online Only)
As a fellow gay man, I know that there are unique challenges that can come with being a gay guy.
Are you a gay man who feels anxious, stressed and overwhelmed? Do you feel like life is passing you by while you silently suffer alone? Anxiety can feel so incredibly overwhelming. You may feel sick to your stomach or have trouble sleeping. You’re looking for relief to finally feel “you” again. The good news is that there are specific skills you can learn to not only manage the anxiety, but truly thrive. I know reaching out for support can be really difficult when you don’t know what to expect. I provide a warm, non-judgemental and shame-free counselling environment so that you feel safe and supported.
As a fellow gay man, I know that there are unique challenges that can come with being a gay guy.
Are you a gay man who feels anxious, stressed and overwhelmed? Do you feel like life is passing you by while you silently suffer alone? Anxiety can feel so incredibly overwhelming. You may feel sick to your stomach or have trouble sleeping. You’re looking for relief to finally feel “you” again. The good news is that there are specific skills you can learn to not only manage the anxiety, but truly thrive. I know reaching out for support can be really difficult when you don’t know what to expect. I provide a warm, non-judgemental and shame-free counselling environment so that you feel safe and supported.
Whitney Bryant
Psychologist, BHSc, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
As a queer therapist I bring lived experience, compassion & understanding to our work together.
Whatever road brought you to this page, welcome. I'm glad you are here. Do you feel lost or disconnected from yourself? Would you like to take steps to live a more authentic life? Do you want others to get to know the real you? Maybe you are wanting out of the closet, out of the shadows, or to have a space to explore your identity, sexuality or relationships. You might also be looking for a gender affirming therapist to support your journey as you begin or continue your transition. I take a holistic and anti-oppressive approach to mental health, and believe we all have the potential to grow, rewire our brains and heal.
As a queer therapist I bring lived experience, compassion & understanding to our work together.
Whatever road brought you to this page, welcome. I'm glad you are here. Do you feel lost or disconnected from yourself? Would you like to take steps to live a more authentic life? Do you want others to get to know the real you? Maybe you are wanting out of the closet, out of the shadows, or to have a space to explore your identity, sexuality or relationships. You might also be looking for a gender affirming therapist to support your journey as you begin or continue your transition. I take a holistic and anti-oppressive approach to mental health, and believe we all have the potential to grow, rewire our brains and heal.
Charis Falardeau
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
Through my life experience, work with clients, and research, I have gained extensive knowledge about exploring and navigating consensually non-monogamous and queer relationships.
As individuals, we each have a unique set of values that guide us. We may or may not be aware of what these values are, and they may shift over time and with experience. I believe that by understanding what is most important to us we have an opportunity to use this information to manage our thoughts, beliefs, and behaviour in a way that allows for peace of mind and authenticity, which in turn can lead to a meaningful life. Using our values to direct our choices and ground us in who we are can allow us to overcome challenges and put us on the path to becoming our best selves.
Through my life experience, work with clients, and research, I have gained extensive knowledge about exploring and navigating consensually non-monogamous and queer relationships.
As individuals, we each have a unique set of values that guide us. We may or may not be aware of what these values are, and they may shift over time and with experience. I believe that by understanding what is most important to us we have an opportunity to use this information to manage our thoughts, beliefs, and behaviour in a way that allows for peace of mind and authenticity, which in turn can lead to a meaningful life. Using our values to direct our choices and ground us in who we are can allow us to overcome challenges and put us on the path to becoming our best selves.
Holeigh Urquhart
Counsellor, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2R
I've been working in the mental health field for over 10 years now and know the importance of finding a counsellor you can connect with. I’m a couples counsellor who also works with individuals in a variety of topics. Many folks come to see me for my experience in the queer / 2slgbtqia+ community; which often has overlap with those who are neurodivergent, as well as exploration outside of a monogamous dynamic (ENM/poly). That said, I work with a variety of individuals in topics - just scroll down to ‘Specialities & Expertise’. My goal is to start by creating a foundation of trust and then customizing techniques to best support you.
I've been working in the mental health field for over 10 years now and know the importance of finding a counsellor you can connect with. I’m a couples counsellor who also works with individuals in a variety of topics. Many folks come to see me for my experience in the queer / 2slgbtqia+ community; which often has overlap with those who are neurodivergent, as well as exploration outside of a monogamous dynamic (ENM/poly). That said, I work with a variety of individuals in topics - just scroll down to ‘Specialities & Expertise’. My goal is to start by creating a foundation of trust and then customizing techniques to best support you.
Rebecca Todd
Counsellor, MC, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2T
Hi there! My name is Rebecca and I'm a counsellor who works with adults in varying populations in their journey through self-evolution and empowerment. I'm especially passionate about working with first responders and the LGBTQ+ community. Being someone who identifies as queer as well as the offspring of a long line of first responders, I'm aware of the many hardships and barriers that exist on a daily basis for those belonging to these communities.
Hi there! My name is Rebecca and I'm a counsellor who works with adults in varying populations in their journey through self-evolution and empowerment. I'm especially passionate about working with first responders and the LGBTQ+ community. Being someone who identifies as queer as well as the offspring of a long line of first responders, I'm aware of the many hardships and barriers that exist on a daily basis for those belonging to these communities.
Dominique Bonneville
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MSc
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2P
Have you been noticing anxiety, fear, or judgment taking up space in your life lately, or holding you back from finding joy, motivation, or confidence? Has it been difficult to understand and live authentically in your gender identity or sexuality? I work with teens, young adults, and families struggling with their identity, sexuality (LGBTQ+, queer-allied space), anxiety, low mood, "big emotions", social relationships, school-related challenges, or just the stress of everyday life. By exploring your values and ways to work with your emotions, we can work to foster a life of authenticity and self-acceptance.
Have you been noticing anxiety, fear, or judgment taking up space in your life lately, or holding you back from finding joy, motivation, or confidence? Has it been difficult to understand and live authentically in your gender identity or sexuality? I work with teens, young adults, and families struggling with their identity, sexuality (LGBTQ+, queer-allied space), anxiety, low mood, "big emotions", social relationships, school-related challenges, or just the stress of everyday life. By exploring your values and ways to work with your emotions, we can work to foster a life of authenticity and self-acceptance.
Hadley Mitchell
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3C
I am passionate about supporting individuals & couples from all backgrounds, with a particular focus on LGBTQ+ communities & non-traditional relationships (e.
Hello! I'm a Registered Psychologist with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. For the past 4 years, I've specialized in relationship therapy, working with both couples & individuals. I offer 60 or 90 minute sessions online & in person (for Alberta residents). To enhance progress between sessions, I give clients exercises & resources, providing tangible tools for moving through challenges. As a goal-oriented therapist, I guide clients towards meaningful change & help them reach a better place in life. I believe in accountability & actively support clients in doing the necessary work for growth & improvement.
I am passionate about supporting individuals & couples from all backgrounds, with a particular focus on LGBTQ+ communities & non-traditional relationships (e.
Hello! I'm a Registered Psychologist with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. For the past 4 years, I've specialized in relationship therapy, working with both couples & individuals. I offer 60 or 90 minute sessions online & in person (for Alberta residents). To enhance progress between sessions, I give clients exercises & resources, providing tangible tools for moving through challenges. As a goal-oriented therapist, I guide clients towards meaningful change & help them reach a better place in life. I believe in accountability & actively support clients in doing the necessary work for growth & improvement.
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Cece Warren - Calgary Couples Therapy And Associates
Chantal Côté- Pyramid Psychology
Melissa Gray
Sharon M. Slate
Meg Lindemulder
Ursula E de Vries
Lizzie Smith
Alisha Datoo
Mark Giesbrecht
Diandra Lewis
Grace Phillips-Mckenzie (Neurodivergent Focused)
Gabrielle Hone Counselling
Christine Gilman
Maria Tsoukalas
Matt Jorgensen
Christina Hong
Carol Korenowski
Lori Johnstone
Leigh-Anne Lawrence
Anusha Kassan
Atma/Cena
Insight Solutions Psychology Inc.
Strength Counselling Services
Taylor Molstad @ Risewell Psychology
Caitie Jane Counseling
Monarch Psychology
Walker Psychological
Uma Autumn Pépin-Robbins
Rozanna Wyatt
Centre of the HeART Art & Somatic Therapy
Allison Iriye - AKI Counselling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
As a provider who's sex & pleasure positive, LGBTQIA+-affirming, kink-aware, poly(am)-aware, and SWer friendly, I'm here to walk with you in moving towards growth as you define it.
I'm a Registered Social Worker who works with adults (individuals and relationships/couples) and youth ages 15+. I am passionate about cultivating therapeutic spaces that are culturally-sensitive and trauma-informed. Utilizing research, professional knowledge, and lived experience, I will invite your authenticity to shine through and be celebrated. As you are the expert of your own life, we will draw upon your knowledge, strengths, curiosity, and processes of self-reflection to address challenges, gain perspective, and develop skills to help you navigate your world.
As a provider who's sex & pleasure positive, LGBTQIA+-affirming, kink-aware, poly(am)-aware, and SWer friendly, I'm here to walk with you in moving towards growth as you define it.
I'm a Registered Social Worker who works with adults (individuals and relationships/couples) and youth ages 15+. I am passionate about cultivating therapeutic spaces that are culturally-sensitive and trauma-informed. Utilizing research, professional knowledge, and lived experience, I will invite your authenticity to shine through and be celebrated. As you are the expert of your own life, we will draw upon your knowledge, strengths, curiosity, and processes of self-reflection to address challenges, gain perspective, and develop skills to help you navigate your world.
Meghan McDonald
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
I take a trauma informed and affirming approach to our work together, and my specialties include grief/loss, family therapy, burnout, depression, anxiety, estrangement, complex trauma, couples therapy and LGBTQ+ concerns.
Welcome! Whatever road brought you to my profile, I'm glad you are here. Are you struggling with substance use or addictive behaviours? Are you feeling burnt out? Are you needing a safe, supportive, and calm place to talk about the challenges you are facing? I will support and help guide you to make lasting, positive and sustainable changes in your life. I take a kind and compassionate approach that gives you the space to feel truly seen and understood. Together, we can help you cultivate and advance your own strengths and capabilities, to move from existing to thriving.
I take a trauma informed and affirming approach to our work together, and my specialties include grief/loss, family therapy, burnout, depression, anxiety, estrangement, complex trauma, couples therapy and LGBTQ+ concerns.
Welcome! Whatever road brought you to my profile, I'm glad you are here. Are you struggling with substance use or addictive behaviours? Are you feeling burnt out? Are you needing a safe, supportive, and calm place to talk about the challenges you are facing? I will support and help guide you to make lasting, positive and sustainable changes in your life. I take a kind and compassionate approach that gives you the space to feel truly seen and understood. Together, we can help you cultivate and advance your own strengths and capabilities, to move from existing to thriving.
Angela Dore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2H
Waitlist for new clients
As a queer woman with ADHD, I'm passionate about anti-oppressive practice and providing a safe(r) space to welcome everyone.
Your journey is unique, and your therapy should be tailored to your needs and experiences. You can bring your whole self to our time together - laughter, tears, anger, joy, or grief, and the many layers of yourself. You want to be seen and heard, for someone to understand how much you've been through, and how desperately you want things to change. I support both individuals and couples, and specialize in supporting people in the queer community, neurodivergent folks, as well as those navigating stress, anxiety, and those nurturing their self-esteem and overcoming people pleasing patterns. All are welcome!
As a queer woman with ADHD, I'm passionate about anti-oppressive practice and providing a safe(r) space to welcome everyone.
Your journey is unique, and your therapy should be tailored to your needs and experiences. You can bring your whole self to our time together - laughter, tears, anger, joy, or grief, and the many layers of yourself. You want to be seen and heard, for someone to understand how much you've been through, and how desperately you want things to change. I support both individuals and couples, and specialize in supporting people in the queer community, neurodivergent folks, as well as those navigating stress, anxiety, and those nurturing their self-esteem and overcoming people pleasing patterns. All are welcome!
Mateo Huezo
Psychologist, RPsych, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2P (Online Only)
My training and specializations include using postmodern and feminist approaches, play and arts in therapy, cognitive behavioural approaches, and approaches that meet the World Professional Association for Transgender Health's Standards for Care.
Welcome! I'm so glad you found your way here. My name is Mateo Huezo and I'm a Latin Patlacheh (2 Spirit) person who works with folks across Alberta. I work with folks who are navigating issues around mood, anxiety, stress, burnout, trauma, grief, and more. Most of my work has been within 2SLGBTQ+ communities, with folks who are neurodiverse, and/or folks who are racially diverse in this society.
My training and specializations include using postmodern and feminist approaches, play and arts in therapy, cognitive behavioural approaches, and approaches that meet the World Professional Association for Transgender Health's Standards for Care.
Welcome! I'm so glad you found your way here. My name is Mateo Huezo and I'm a Latin Patlacheh (2 Spirit) person who works with folks across Alberta. I work with folks who are navigating issues around mood, anxiety, stress, burnout, trauma, grief, and more. Most of my work has been within 2SLGBTQ+ communities, with folks who are neurodiverse, and/or folks who are racially diverse in this society.
Forouz Salari Online Counselling & Consulting - AB
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2R (Online Only)
If you identify as a neurodivergent, chronically ill, BIPOC &/or immigrant woman, queer or trans person, then you may be struggling to feel a sense of belonging & acceptance in a world & system that wasn’t built for you & doesn’t capture the unique intersections of your identity & lived experiences. I believe in your inherent capacity to heal, grow, discover who you are, connect deeply with others, and lead a fulfilling life. If you’re committed to self-discovery & healing as part of your ongoing personal growth & professional development, let's work together to put the pieces of your life, work & relationships back into balance.
If you identify as a neurodivergent, chronically ill, BIPOC &/or immigrant woman, queer or trans person, then you may be struggling to feel a sense of belonging & acceptance in a world & system that wasn’t built for you & doesn’t capture the unique intersections of your identity & lived experiences. I believe in your inherent capacity to heal, grow, discover who you are, connect deeply with others, and lead a fulfilling life. If you’re committed to self-discovery & healing as part of your ongoing personal growth & professional development, let's work together to put the pieces of your life, work & relationships back into balance.
Janele Lajoie
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T1X (Online Only)
I am a neurodivergent, queer woman with French ancestry, and my work takes place on the stolen and unceded lands of the Coast Salish peoples, colonially known as "Vancouver, British Columbia".
Hello! I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) who is passionate about supporting clients to navigate challenging life events or mental health concerns. I am also focused on reducing negative stigma of mental health. I have worked in various roles in the social services sector for ten years before beginning my career as a clinical counsellor, including immigration, disability support, outreach counselling, cultural safety, social work and case management. This professional experience combined with lived experience allows me to practice from trauma-informed, intersectional and anti oppressive frameworks.
I am a neurodivergent, queer woman with French ancestry, and my work takes place on the stolen and unceded lands of the Coast Salish peoples, colonially known as "Vancouver, British Columbia".
Hello! I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) who is passionate about supporting clients to navigate challenging life events or mental health concerns. I am also focused on reducing negative stigma of mental health. I have worked in various roles in the social services sector for ten years before beginning my career as a clinical counsellor, including immigration, disability support, outreach counselling, cultural safety, social work and case management. This professional experience combined with lived experience allows me to practice from trauma-informed, intersectional and anti oppressive frameworks.
Leigh van Rootselaar
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2A
I provide a supportive environment for those on their journey of identity exploration and healing. As someone who shares in the experience of queer identity, my practice is a safe haven that welcomes and affirms all queer and gender-diverse individuals. My expertise includes serving individuals facing trauma, addiction, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, and emotion dysregulation.
I provide a supportive environment for those on their journey of identity exploration and healing. As someone who shares in the experience of queer identity, my practice is a safe haven that welcomes and affirms all queer and gender-diverse individuals. My expertise includes serving individuals facing trauma, addiction, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, and emotion dysregulation.
Savannah Forsey
Counsellor, MA, LCT-C, CCC, CTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2A (Online Only)
As a queer therapist with a background of studies in human sexuality and gender, a priority of mine is to create a space that feels safe for folks seeking counselling within the LGBTQ2S+ community.
Hi there! I work with individuals (16+) who have experienced struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, relationship issues, body dysmorphia, etc. In my practise I utilize a humanistic, client-centred, trauma-informed approach. Aiming to foster an open and collaborative environment for clients, while integrating self-awareness and mindfulness-based techniques in session.
As a queer therapist with a background of studies in human sexuality and gender, a priority of mine is to create a space that feels safe for folks seeking counselling within the LGBTQ2S+ community.
Hi there! I work with individuals (16+) who have experienced struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, relationship issues, body dysmorphia, etc. In my practise I utilize a humanistic, client-centred, trauma-informed approach. Aiming to foster an open and collaborative environment for clients, while integrating self-awareness and mindfulness-based techniques in session.
Carl Conradi
Counsellor, CCC, MSc, MBA, MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
I see adult and adolescent clients from all sorts of different backgrounds, and who present with a variety of psychological concerns. However, I feel I’m especially well-suited to working with folks who are undergoing significant life change (e.g., job insecurity, divorce, bereavement, diagnosis, etc.), and who are experiencing anger, anxiety, or depression while traversing the flux. I’m also a keen advocate of mental wellbeing within a number of specific communities, including: veterans and first responders, men (cis and trans), LGBTQ+ folks, expatriates/immigrants, entrepreneurs, and people practicing consensual non-monogamy.
I see adult and adolescent clients from all sorts of different backgrounds, and who present with a variety of psychological concerns. However, I feel I’m especially well-suited to working with folks who are undergoing significant life change (e.g., job insecurity, divorce, bereavement, diagnosis, etc.), and who are experiencing anger, anxiety, or depression while traversing the flux. I’m also a keen advocate of mental wellbeing within a number of specific communities, including: veterans and first responders, men (cis and trans), LGBTQ+ folks, expatriates/immigrants, entrepreneurs, and people practicing consensual non-monogamy.
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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.