Find a Mental Health Professional for LGBTQIA+ Affirming

About LGBTQIA+ Affirming support

LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy recognises and respects the diversity of sexual orientations, gender identities, and relationship structures, and approaches each person without assumptions or the aim of changing who they are. While being LGBTQIA+ is not a mental health problem, many LGBTQIA+ Australians do experience mental health challenges at higher rates than the general population, driven largely by experiences of discrimination, family rejection, internalised shame, and minority stress. Affirming practitioners create a space where LGBTQIA+ people can explore any concern, from relationship difficulties to anxiety, trauma, or identity questions, without having to manage their clinician's discomfort or explain the basics of their experience. Finding a practitioner who is genuinely affirming rather than simply "accepting" can make a significant difference to the quality and effectiveness of support. In Australia, ACON provides directory listings and support for LGBTQIA+ Australians, and QLife offers peer telephone and chat support. headspace includes affirming services for young people, and many private practitioners specifically identify as LGBTQIA+ affirming. Medicare rebates are available through a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan for eligible sessions.