LGBTQ+ and gender identity counselling

LGBTQ+ and gender identity counselling

Many individuals whose sexual and/or gender identity fall outside the norms and expectations of the greater heterosexual cisgender populous continue to face prejudice and discrimination. Many LGBTQ+ individuals continue to endure hardship and intolerance from within their families of origin, their places of work and school, and from various political and religious factions who openly condemn LGBTQ+ members. The impact of this cannot be underestimated.

Since the Stonewall Riots pushed the conversation of LGBTQ+ rights and freedoms into the conversation of political and social mainstream, many advances have been made in terms of acceptance and equality. However, for many of its people, identifying as LGBTQ+ can still have dire consequences. Despite the progress made, by no means have members of this community been granted full acceptance with open arms.

Hearing the message over and over again that their sexuality and/or gender identity is wrong, or bad, or inferior in some way, leads to feelings of internalized homophobia and/or internalized gender phobia. This felt sense of shame leads to a diminished sense of self-identity and self-worth, which can put members of the LGBTQ+ community at greater risk for drug and alcohol abuse, depression and anxiety, and suicide, as they try to cope with the pain and suffering they carry in relation to themselves.

Counselling for members of the LGBTQ+ community
may include:

  • Working towards accepting one’s sexual and/or gender identity as a natural part of him/her/their self

  • Working through feelings of shame resulting from negative social attitudes, prejudice and discrimination

  • Helping develop healthy coping strategies and forming a positive sense of self-worth and identity

  • Learning to build healthy friendships and intimate relationships that serve to enrich, empower, and support one’s life

  • Navigating the fear and struggles associated with coming out and the life changes that occur as a result

  • Helping parents and loved ones process the changes associated with their child coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or other

other helpful resources

To start counselling now:

meet our sexuality and gender identity counsellors

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Alissa Caskey
My practice is a welcoming and affirmative space for LGBTQ+ individuals and those exploring gender identity. ...read more
...I provide informed and empathetic support, empowering clients to live authentically and embrace their full selves, while navigating the complexities of identity, relationships, and societal expectations.Alissa's Full Bio

Allison Paré
Creating a safe and affirming space is fundamental. I prioritize providing a supportive environment where individuals can explore and express their authentic selves without fear of judgment or discrimination ...read more
...I address the challenges posed by a heteronormative society by offering validation, empathy, and tailored support that acknowledges the unique experiences and marginalization faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Through this approach, I aim to empower clients to navigate their identity journeys with resilience, self-acceptance, and a sense of belonging.Allison's Full Bio

Emily Collins
If you are exploring your gender or sexual identity, I am committed to providing a safe and judgment free space for you. I understand that this exploration can often pose challenges, whether it be stigma, fear of judgment, or disapproval from others. ...read more
I work to affirm those on this journey by creating space for self-acceptance. Beyond this, I encourage clients to embark on any exploration or curiosity with a sense of self-love and pride. I promise to actively learn about the unique journey of each client’s self-expression in order to create meaningful outcomes in the counselling setting. Emily's Full Bio

Nikita Eglinski
Within a heteronormative society, confusion, seclusion, and uncertainty may be primary feelings that occur if you identify as LGBTQ+. While society is working towards inclusivity and understanding for people of all walks of life, it can still be an area in which unacceptance and loneliness may be felt. ... read more
Moreover, feeling as though you do not conform to the expectations of others around you can become a tedious task. This can have an effect on the relationships we have with our families, friends, coworkers, and so on. As an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, I strive to provide a space that is judgement free and one in which you can feel safe exploring and expressing yourself in the ways that you are comfortable. My role as a therapist is to work with you through the complexities that come with identifying who we are, how we want to be perceived, and our own self-acceptance. Nikita's Full Bio

Rebecca Bonham
I am here to support you on your gender and identity journey – whether that means exploring and understanding your own emerging identity; navigating challenges of being authentic within your family friends, or spiritual community; ...read more
learning to live out and proud; or navigating the nuances of living in a binary-breaking way. I provide a queer-affirming, safe, and nonjudgmental space for you to be who you are, so that you and your story may be held with compassion, curiosity, and celebration. Rebecca's Full Bio

Sabrina Roach
If you identify as a sexual or gender minority, I want to provide a supportive environment where you feel acknowledged and safe to be your authentic self. ...read more
...Whether your challenges arise from internalized stigma, externalized negativity, or marginalization stemming from a heteronormative society, exploring these feelings in an inclusive and accepting space is important. I identify as an ally and acknowledge my privilege and influence within the therapeutic realm. I take a compassionate, sex-positive, affirming approach to all of my clients and strive to improve my knowledge of the 2SLGBTQ+ culture with additional training. Sabrina's Full Bio