How to Find LGBTQ Therapist Who Is Affirming and Inclusive

Q: How do I find an LGBTQ counsellor near me?

You can start by searching professional directories that include LGBTIQ+ friendly filters or by contacting local LGBTQ community organisations. Using search terms such as “LGBTQ counsellor near me” and then confirming inclusive practice directly with the therapist can help ensure a good fit.

Q: What is an affirming psychologist, and do I need one?

An affirming psychologist actively supports LGBTQ identities as valid and positive, understands the social pressures that can affect mental health, and uses inclusive therapeutic approaches. Affirming care is associated with better engagement and outcomes for many LGBTQ clients, particularly where identity related stress is relevant [4][5].

Q: Does my therapist need to be LGBTQ?

Not necessarily. While some people prefer a therapist who shares their identity, many skilled LGBTQ affirming allies provide excellent care. The most important factors are feeling respected, understood, and safe within the therapeutic relationship.

Q: What if I cannot find an LGBTQ affirming therapist nearby?

Online therapy can remove location barriers and allow access to affirming therapists across Australia. Telehealth is widely used in mental health care, with around 21 percent of Medicare subsidised mental health services delivered via telehealth in late 2025, supporting accessibility for people in all locations [6].

Q: How can I tell if a therapist is truly LGBTQ affirming?

A genuinely LGBTQ affirming therapist uses respectful and inclusive language, discusses identity comfortably, and demonstrates visible support for diversity. Indicators include consistent validation, inclusive intake forms, and confidence working with LGBTQ related topics in therapy [4][5].

nurturedthoughts
Jan 1
6 min read

Finding a therapist who truly understands and celebrates your identity can change how you experience support, healing, and connection. For LGBTQ individuals, therapy is not just about talking through challenges, it is about finding a space where your full self feels respected and safe. Learning how to find LGBTQ therapist support who is affirming and inclusive is an empowering step toward emotional wellbeing.

In Australia, this search is more than personal preference. 58.7% of LGB+ Australians had a 12 month mental disorder, compared with 19.9% of heterosexual Australians [1]. These figures show that mental health support tailored to LGBTQ needs is essential, not optional. In this article, we will explore what to look for in an affirming therapist, how to recognise real inclusivity, the choice between online and in person sessions, and the best way to prepare for your first appointment.

What to Look For in an LGBTQ Affirming Therapist

An affirming therapist helps you feel accepted, safe, and understood. Evidence highlights ongoing barriers in mainstream settings, which is why clarity about what to look for matters. Only 43.4% of LGBTIQ people reported feeling accepted a lot or always when accessing health services, underscoring the importance of culturally safe, respectful care [2].

LGBTQ Specific Training and Experience:Choose a therapist who has completed education or training focused on LGBTQ mental health. Affirming psychologists often mention specific expertise in gender identity, sexuality, or minority stress, and research continues to document the effectiveness of LGBTQ affirmative psychotherapy approaches [4].
Clearly Affirming Values:Look for professionals who explicitly state inclusive values on their websites or professional listings. A genuine affirming therapist will reject harmful approaches such as conversion therapy and will align with established ethical standards [4].
Inclusive Language and Environment:Affirming therapists show inclusivity through both words and actions. They use your correct pronouns, avoid assumptions, and offer intake forms that include all gender identities. Visual cues such as pride symbols or inclusive reading materials also show commitment to diversity, consistent with professional guidance for working competently with LGBTIQ+ people and communities [5].
Awareness of LGBTQ Experiences:Therapists should be informed about experiences such as discrimination, family rejection, or internalised stigma. In national research, 82% of participants accessed mainstream health services, and those settings were where people reported the lowest levels of feeling respected. This makes choosing a culturally aware therapist essential [3].

For additional guidance, see our related post on Creating Safe Therapeutic Spaces for LGBTQ Clients.

Signs That a Therapist Is Truly Inclusive

A therapist’s inclusivity shows through consistent respect, empathy, and understanding, not just labels. These early signals help you decide whether to proceed.

Respectful Communication:Inclusive therapists always use your name and pronouns correctly. They do so naturally, not as an afterthought. This basic respect helps foster safety and trust, which are central to effective therapy [5].
Comfort Discussing LGBTQ Topics:They will talk comfortably about your identity, relationships, or experiences, demonstrating familiarity and genuine acceptance. An affirming stance reduces minority stress and supports better engagement in therapy [4].
Visible Inclusivity:Their practice reflects their values. This might include gender neutral restrooms, inclusive forms, or a visible statement affirming equality and safety. These environmental cues align with practice tips for culturally safe care [5].
Empathy and Validation:You will feel validated when discussing experiences of discrimination or shame. Inclusive therapists recognise the mental health impact of minority stress and help you navigate it without judgement, which is consistent with best practice in affirmative psychotherapy [4].

Be cautious of red flags such as defensiveness, misgendering, or discomfort when you bring up LGBTQ experiences. These can signal a lack of genuine affirming practice.

Choosing Between Online and In Person Therapy

Both online and in person therapy have benefits, and choosing depends on your comfort and access. The goal is to select the format that supports consistent attendance and emotional safety.

Online Therapy:

Expands your options, particularly if you live outside a major city or in an area with limited LGBTQ affirming therapists.
Offers privacy and flexibility, making it easier to fit sessions into your schedule. As at the September quarter 2025, 21% of Medicare subsidised mental health services were delivered via telehealth, indicating sustained accessibility and uptake of online care [6]

In Person Therapy:

Encourages stronger emotional connection and non verbal communication.
Provides a safe, neutral setting for reflection away from daily distractions.

Both formats are supported by evidence for clinical effectiveness. Systematic reviews show comparable outcomes and therapeutic alliance across telehealth and face to face care for common mental health presentations, and professional guidance supports telehealth as a valid mode of delivery when appropriately implemented [7,8]. Your decision should focus on where you feel most comfortable sharing your story.

Preparing for Your First Appointment: Tips to Feel Comfortable

The first appointment can feel like a big step, and thoughtful preparation can ease nerves and set the tone for a positive experience.

Communicate Clearly: Share your preferred name and pronouns before the session begins. This allows your therapist to address you correctly and respectfully, in line with inclusive practice guidance [5].
Prepare Notes: Write down the issues or goals you want to discuss. This helps you stay focused and ensures nothing important is missed during the session.
Create a Comfortable Environment: Choose a quiet, private space for online sessions or plan to arrive a few minutes early for in person appointments. This reduces stress and helps you feel settled.
Understand Boundaries: Therapy is confidential. Knowing your information stays private can help you speak freely about topics you may not have shared elsewhere.
Plan Gentle Self Care: After your session, schedule time for a calm walk, meditation, or connection with a trusted friend. Processing emotions after therapy takes energy and care.

For more preparation ideas, read our companion guide How to Prepare for Your First Therapy Session.

Practical Steps to Find the Right LGBTQ Therapist

Finding the right therapist is both an emotional and practical decision. Here is a structured approach to help you move forward:

Define What You Need: Identify your preferences regarding therapist identity, session format, fees, and areas of expertise.
Use Reputable Directories: Check professional directories and LGBTIQ+ community organisations that provide verified listings and affirming filters.
Check Credentials: Confirm that the therapist is accredited and trained in LGBTQ affirmative approaches.
Reach Out: Contact therapists directly and ask about their experience with LGBTQ clients. This helps you gauge comfort and communication style.
Evaluate the Fit: After your first few sessions, reflect on how you feel. A supportive connection and sense of safety are signs you have found the right therapist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find an LGBTQ counsellor near me?

Start by searching professional directories with LGBTIQ+ friendly filters or contacting local community groups. Use search terms like “LGBTQ counsellor near me” and follow up directly to confirm inclusive practice.

What is an affirming psychologist, and do I need one?

An affirming psychologist supports LGBTQ identities as valid and positive. They understand the social pressures that can affect mental health and apply inclusive methods that improve engagement and outcomes [4,5].

Does my therapist need to be LGBTQ?

Not necessarily. While some clients prefer therapists who share their identity, many skilled allies offer excellent care. The most important factor is trust and respect.

What if I cannot find an LGBTQ affirming therapist nearby?

Online therapy removes location barriers, allowing you to connect with affirming professionals anywhere in Australia. Telehealth is widely used in mental health care, with 21% of Medicare subsidised mental health services delivered via telehealth in late 2025, which supports accessibility [6].

How can I tell if a therapist is truly LGBTQ affirming?

A genuinely affirming therapist uses respectful language, discusses identity comfortably, and visibly supports diversity. Consistent validation, inclusive paperwork, and confidence working with LGBTQ topics are key indicators [4,5].

At Nurtured Thoughts Psychology, we are committed to providing affirming, inclusive care for every client. Our therapists understand that identity and mental health are deeply connected, and we create spaces where you can safely explore, grow, and heal. If you are ready to take the next step, we would be honoured to support your journey toward wellbeing and self acceptance.

Disclaimer: This guide is general information, not a substitute for individual medical advice. Please consult your GP or specialist for personal care.

References

[1] Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2024, July 26). National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing, 2020 to 2022. Canberra, ACT: ABS. https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/mental-health/national-study-mental-health-and-wellbeing/latest-release

[2] Australian Medical Association. (2021). Position statement on LGBTIQA+ health. Barton, ACT: AMA. https://www.ama.com.au/articles/position-statement-lgbtiqa-health

[3] Rainbow Health Australia. (2020). Why do we need LGBTIQ inclusive services? Research Matters fact sheet. Melbourne, VIC: Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University. https://www.rainbowhealthaustralia.org.au/research-matters-why-do-we-need-lgbtiq-inclusive-services

[4] Burger, J., & Pachankis, J. E. (2024). State of the science, LGBTQ affirmative psychotherapy. Behavior Therapy, 55(6), 1318 to 1334. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.beth.2024.02.011

[5] Australian Psychological Society. (2022). Working competently with LGBTIQ+ people and communities: Tips for psychologists and others. Melbourne, VIC: APS. https://psychology.org.au

[6] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2025). Mental health services activity monitoring, September quarter 2025. Canberra, ACT: AIHW. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/mental-health-services/mental-health-services-activity-monitoring

[7] Hagi, K., Nosaki, A., Burr, J. M., et al. (2023). Telepsychiatry and face to face psychiatry, a systematic review and meta analysis of randomised controlled trials. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 223(6), 654 to 665. https://doi.org/10.1192/bjp.2023.104

[8] Australian Psychological Society. (2021). Telehealth for psychology, evidence and practice considerations. Melbourne, VIC: APS. https://psychology.org.au