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A GUIDE TO FINDING SUPPORT

Choosing an LGBTQ+ affirming counsellor in Perth

You may be looking for support with relationships, work, change or family life. Your sexuality or gender does not have to be the reason you want counselling. These questions can help you compare practitioners across Perth, whether or not you have children.

Prepared by Belongrove Counselling · 21 September 2026. General questions to help you choose a service; not individual clinical advice.

1. Ask what affirming practice means to them.

   “How do you respect my name, pronouns, relationships and the people I call family?” You can also ask how they would work with you when identity is not the main concern.

2. Look for experience relevant to your needs.

   “What training and experience do you have supporting LGBTQ+ people with a concern like mine?” A general statement of welcome does not tell you how much experience someone has with your situation.

3. Check the qualifications they advertise.

   Ask for the practitioner’s qualification and, if they claim professional registration, the organisation and registration details. The Australian Counselling Association directory lists practising registrants who opt in. If someone is absent, ACA says you can contact it to check their registration. A directory entry alone does not establish LGBTQ+ parenting experience.

4. If you have children, ask about the type of support.

   “What experience do you have with LGBTQ+ parents, carers or co-parents?” Clarify whether the service is individual support for you, joint work with another adult, or counselling for a child. Ask who would attend, whose consent is needed and how information would be handled between participants.

5. Understand privacy before sharing your story.

   “Who can access my information, what are the limits of confidentiality, and how will you contact me?” You can ask these questions before providing a detailed personal history.

6. Check the practical fit.

   Ask about the Perth location or online options, accessibility, session length, fees and cancellation terms. If you need a rebate or funding arrangement, ask the practitioner to confirm eligibility before you book.

7. Leave room to decide.

   “How can I raise a concern or discuss a different approach?” PACFA highlights the importance of the connection between client and therapist. Consider whether you feel heard and whether your questions receive clear answers.

Directory information checked against ACA, PACFA and QLife on 21 September 2026. Link to this guide.