Find a Mental Health Professional for Coming Out & Disclosure

About Coming Out & Disclosure support

Coming out, the process of sharing one's gender identity or sexual orientation with others, is deeply personal and can unfold many times over a lifetime in different relationships and contexts. For some people it is a gradual, carefully considered process; for others it happens more suddenly. Coming out can bring enormous relief and a sense of authenticity, and it can also bring uncertainty about how others will respond, fear of rejection, and the need to manage others' reactions. Affirming counselling and psychological support can help people think through when, how, and to whom they want to come out, process the emotions that arise before and after, and manage the impact of others' responses. Therapy is not about determining whether someone should come out, but about supporting the person in making their own choices in their own time. In Australia, QLife (1800 184 527) provides telephone and online peer support for LGBTQIA+ Australians, including those navigating coming out. ACON, Twenty10, and Switchboard also offer support and referral. headspace provides affirming services for young people. A GP can refer to an affirming psychologist or mental health practitioner under Medicare's Better Access initiative.