Gender & Sexual Identity Counselling

Your someone.health psychologist can work with you to manage your gender & sexual identity evidence-based video and telephone counselling.
Your someone.health psychologist can work with you to manage your gender & sexual identity evidence-based video and telephone counselling.

Learn about Gender and Sexual Identity

Both our gender identity and sexual identity make up a fundamental part of who we are. Some people identify with a different gender from the one they were assigned at birth. Gender Dysmorphia involves a conflict between the gender an individual identifies with, and the one they were physically assigned. For people with Gender Dysmorphia, this conflict can involve being uncomfortable with their body, expectations of social gender roles, or both.

 

 

The experiences, and sometimes struggles, of those with who have conflicting feelings about their gender vary hugely. Whilst some individuals recall intense feelings from a young age and express they have always felt trapped in the wrong body, others become confused about their gender identity later in life, sometimes even after getting married and having children. In the latter case, this is often not because the individual has suddenly changed their mind, but because they have previously tried to deny or ignore feelings around their gender identification. As an adult, coming to terms with gender identity confusion can seem impossible. If you have grappled with anxiety and confusion about your gender identity, you may be terrified of the impact this will have on your family, and even your career. Seeking the support and advice of a psychologist is often the first step.

 

 

On the other hand, sexual orientation/identity is completely separate, and distinct from, gender identity. Sexual identity refers to a person’s thinking about who they are romantically and sexually attracted to. Sexual orientation ranges along a continuum, from exclusive attraction to the opposite sex, to exclusive attraction to the same sex, and can therefore also be a source of confusion and sometimes, distress. It is not uncommon to feel under pressure to identify with one sexual orientation. However it is becoming openly accepted that sexuality is more fluid, and individuals may be anywhere on the continuum. If you are experiencing distress as the result of confusion surrounding your sexual identity, fear of stigma and/or disapproval of family and friends may be stopping you from facing these feelings. Alternatively, you may feel confident that you understand your sexual identity but need the help of a professional to communicate this to family and colleagues.

 

 

Due to the difficulties members of the LGBTQIA+ often face, there are high rates of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, and drug and alcohol addiction. However, when able to live out their daily lives with both a physical embodiment and a social expression that most closely matches their internal sense of self, LGBTQIA+ individuals live successful, productive lives, indistinguishable from anyone else.

 

 

If you are struggling with either gender or sexual identity concerns, seek help from a psychologist. Some of the ways your someone.health psychologist can help include:

Providing talk therapy to explore feelings of confusion and distress

Providing expert advice on the experiences of individuals who face similar concerns and obstacles

Developing strategies with you to reveal gender and/or sexual identity changes to family and friends

Providing family therapy to allow you to discuss feelings and decisions in a safe and supportive environment

Discussing and exploring options for your future, such a gender transitioning – e.g. medical options, changing the use of pronouns at work etc.

Situations unrelated to the event that made you feel angry often become negatively impacted by your mood

Borderline Personality Disorder - Someone Health

Gender & Sexual Identity Psychologists

Meet the someone.health psychologists currently available to see new clients for counselling on gender and sexual identity. 

Adauto Furlanetti Severino da Silva

Adauto has 14 years of experience in a private practice focusing on anxiety, depression and life changes (work, divorce, sexuality and maturing) with young adults. Adauto believes that each person can benefit from problem solving strategies, but also from finding causes and reasons. Adauto studied Psychology in Brazil and applies CBT, ACT and DBT modalities.

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Agnes Szollos (Agi)

My combined professional and life experiences make me highly aware of the types of difficulties encountered by people from all walks of life and the impact on their and others’ lives these obstacles to wellbeing can have. My efforts and professional skill are dedicated toward helping to make a difference
and to assist people in developing their greater potential

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Alex Scagliola

I really enjoy working with people in all sorts of circumstances. I am dedicated to working with everyone as an individual and respecting your situation, experiences, beliefs, and values. I encourage you to take an active role in sessions. I feel honored at the privilege of getting to know and working with clients in a genuine and meaningful way.

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Andrew Pangrazio

I am excited to listen and get to know you as we work together to make sense of, predict or change areas of life. My practice has always been to actively listen, to explore and to experiment using a range of psychology tools. I work using innovative approaches that highlight your strengths whilst also addressing issues or areas that are the source of struggle and pain in your life. Collaboratively we seek to set goals, implement skills, and increase wellbeing to not just grow but flourish. My relaxed, genuine, and unrelenting optimism serves as the perfect companion to adventuring through the mind as we seek to ask the right questions and find the right answers.

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Bilyana Riley

Bilyana’s 20 years’ experience is vast, having started my career in nursing before embarking on study to become a Clinical Psychologist. She sees people presenting with a broad spectrum of presentations, including trauma, depressive and anxiety based disorders, workplace bullying, phobias, relationship issues, stress disorders, schizophrenia, self-harm, suicidal behaviour, personality disorders, grief and relationship issues.

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Caroline Gaffney

Caroline is very approachable and believes that positive change is sustainable, working holistically and using practical strategies, developing new skills and psychological interventions to achieve the best outcomes for you. She has been the principal psychologist and proprietor of Pure Gold Christian Counselling and Psychological Services for eight years.

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Chantal Mercanti

I love what I do. I take earning your trust very seriously. I think it’s a big deal to share your thoughts, fears, worries, hopes and dreams in counselling. I work hard to listen well and to understand your experience of the world and how you would like it to be different. I’m a real person and will be clear about how I think I can help and have both professional and life experience to draw from.

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Dajana Bjelosevic

Dajana has 20 years experience as a Psychologist working with a diverse range of clients. She has extensive experience in substance abuse and addictions, depression, anxiety, stress management, adjustment disorder, PTSD and grief and loss.

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Danielle Tichelaar

A registered psychologist dedicated to supporting individuals live more fulfilling lives. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and change, and I am grateful for the opportunity to accompany my clients on their journey, supporting them along the way.

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Darren Pittock

Darren has been helping people from a psychological perspective for over 17 years. He is experienced working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, stress, anger management, loss and grief, as well as intellectual, physical, developmental disabilities. Darren has also experienced life as a wine merchant, martial artist, security officer and as a tradesman.

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Geoffrey Haines

Geoff has over 10 years of experience working as a psychologist and has a keen interest working with people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, procrastination, interpersonal difficulties and low self esteem. Geoff is trained in evidence-based approaches including CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.

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Hugo Webster

Hi there, I’m Hugo and I’m an early career psychologist. I see the client as the expert in their own lives and use my knowledge and skills to help you overcome the barriers that are getting in the way of leading a purposeful and meaningful life

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James Minson

James’ approach to mental health is about mind-body integration and looking at the “whole person”. Mental health influences how we feel, think and move, how we communicate and relate to the world, and can seriously impact our physical health. James will hep make sense of how this all fits together, to explore unhelpful thoughts and behaviour, and identify different options.

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Jeanette McLean

Jeanette has 27 years of experience as a psychologist. She has worked in private practice, as an Employee Assistance Provider (both internal and external) and as a teacher of counselling in a private counselling college.

Jeanette has gained a lot of expertise working in many areas of psychopathology over the years and continues to enjoy ongoing professional development, offering a service of value.

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Jeanine Leabeater

Hi, I am very excited to meet you, get to know you as a person and work together to achieve the change you desire, the life you would like for yourself.
I am committed to working with you, the whole person and I will treat you as a real person, not just see your issue. I want you, us, to achieve the life you want for yourself.
I feel so privileged to work with my clients, to get to know you and work with you in a meaningful way. It is amazing when my clients take a proactive approach to their mental health and together we make that change. I can’t wait for us to get started!

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Joe Guse

Former comedian and current Clinical Psychologist Joe Guse uses humour to help people respond to life’s challenges. Joe strives to help people use humour to respond to lifes emotional choices. He has authored 20 books and appears regularly on American television shows including Biography, Autopsy, and Behind Closed Doors.

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Ka Ming Ng

Kaming is open-minded and enjoys working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and sexual orientations. Kaming is trained in several evidence-base approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Schema Therapy and EMDR. He is interested to work with people’s addiction issues, interpersonal relationships issues, specific trauma and complex trauma.

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Kate Stewart

Kate has worked as a psychologist for over 35 years and is keen to help people 16-years-old and older who wish to improve their psychological life. Kate has a Doctorate in Health Science and her certifications include Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and Ericksonian Hypnosis. She also studies Buddhism, including meditation and mindfulness.

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Katherine Gudgeon

Katherine has worked with a wide array of presentations, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, anger management, bullying, relationship difficulties and personality disorders. Katherine has worked as a School Counsellor for five years and an English teacher for over thirty years. Katherine is experienced in dealing with adolescent development and parenting issues. She has a keen interest in working with people experiencing relationship difficulties.

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Klaus War

I am a fully qualified hypnotherapist, treating all types of anxiety disorders, sleep disturbances, drug addictions, self-esteem issues, chronic pain, and IBS.
I have 20 years of experience as a music teacher and taught children from age four to adults, aged 64 years.
I also treat children and adolescents for peer relationship issues, school refusal, bullying, and poor school performance.

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Kristy Johnstone

Deciding to see a Psychologist is a big step, so congratulations for coming this far. Once you choose a therapist, stepping into a their virtual therapy room is the next big step, and for many people this can feel overwhelming. A big part of my job is to help you feel comfortable and safe. All you have to do is take that step, show up and be yourself.

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Linda Harrison

Linda provides psychological support to adults and young people (16+) presenting with complex issues including anxiety, depression, gender/sexual identity, and general stresses of school and relationships. She is also very experienced in working with parents to facilitate positive relationships with their children in difficult times.

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Maddy Haydar

I aim to provide you with a warm, safe and compassionate environment which will allow you to explore concerns and achieve positive change. I provide a holistic, collaborative, and evidence-based approach to therapy and believe in the importance of early intervention to improve outcomes for individuals.

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Manya Scheftsik

Manya is experienced in helping people change behaviours that form part of a chronic condition whether physical or psychological. These changes include becoming more physically active and fit; pain management; feeling in control of your eating; the moderate consumption of alcohol; and cessation of smoking & problem gambling. She also has extensive experience helping people exit a substance abuse lifestyle.

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Martin Pearce

Martin is best known for his humour and pragmatism. Martin has experience working with a diverse range of clients, including children, adolescents, adults and families. Martin has spent recent years working in a mental health clinic for people living with addictions, trauma and mood disorders.

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Melissa Boulind

Melissa has extensive experience in working with teen conflicts including peer conflicts, relationships, exam stress and fitting in. In addition to that she has an interest in PTSD and trauma, poor health, covid-related adjustment and loss, HIV and cancer. Melissa can provide support for LBGTQ conflicts including coming out.

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Melissa Sykes

Welcome and hello to you, I am looking forward to understanding who you are as an individual. I am hopeful that through our time together we can put in place some steps and strategies to assist you in achieving the outcomes you desire.

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Michelle Scott

Michelle enjoys helping people to deal with life challenges and developmental problems to optimise psychological well-being. Her approach is to work together with clients to process feelings and to develop self insight and understanding. This aims to alleviate distress as well as to provide different ways of thinking, being and relating to the self and others.

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Mike van Dijkhuizen

Mike’s approach to therapy is mainly based on a model called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which focuses on learning to let go of unhelpful thoughts, being present with difficult emotions and connecting to your values, the things that really matter to you. Mike identifies as a gay man and enjoys working with the LGBTQ+ community.

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Mitchell Howarth

I am passionate about helping people solve problems. My approach is focused on uncovering the things that are holding you back, setting goals to fix this, and motivating you to take action. I tailor my approach to everyone individually, and I use techniques that have been shown by research to help people. If you are interested, please inquire. I look forward to working with you 🙂

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Rachel Crossley

Rachel only works with children and young adults, up to the age of 25. She has over 20 years experience. Rachel has a keen interest in helping those who struggle with anxiety issues, including social anxiety, OCD and phobias. She has also worked extensively with young people who experience depression and other mood disorders, alongside other significant life events, such as bullying, relationship/friendship issues and adjustment issues.

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Rachel Troia

Hi, my name is Rachel and I’d love to meet and support you. What makes therapy with me different? We will work in the moment. I will meet you where you are at and walk alongside you using my wealth of tools and my deep intuition. You are not a diagnosis or a label to me. You are precious and unique – this I will honour and respect. My goal is to bring greater awareness and balance into your life.

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Rosara Squirchuk

Rosara has a keen interest in working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma including PTSD and adjustment disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, gambling and other addictive behaviours, alcohol misuse, work/personal stress and domestic violence survivors.

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Sarah Krueger

Sarah uses a person-centred, strength-based approach, working in collaboration with clients to reach their therapeutic goals. Sarah is highly focused on the therapeutic relationship using a calm and relaxed manner, positive communication strategies, empathy, and understanding during therapy sessions.

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Sasha Truehl

Well done for making it this far! I’d love to work with you to further harness your bravery to go and get whatever you want for your life. This includes relationships, which can be hard, but also so fulfilling. If that’s not your current experience, I’d love to work together to figure out attachment styles, or better conflict resolution or self regulation skills. I believe everyone deserves to be supported in all of life’s transitory moments and that relationship with ourselves and others can be a cocoon for healing. It would be my privilege to journey with you.

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Shae Lawler-Brennan

As a psychologist, I am here to offer you a safe and supportive space where you can share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I understand that life can sometimes be challenging, and it takes courage to reach out for help. Please know that I am here to listen to you and to support you in any way I can. My goal as a therapist is to help you better understand yourself, increase your self-awareness, and empower you to make positive changes in your life. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or any other issue, I am here to help you navigate through these challenges and find a path towards greater happiness and well-being. I look forward to working with you and helping you achieve your goals.

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Simon Coyle

Simon is a qualified primary school teacher as well as a registered psychologist. Simon has a keen interest in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder and behaviour and emotional disorders in children. He has a relaxed, easy going nature and likes to provide people with the skills to manage life’s challenges.

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Stephanie Cook

Stephanie has had nearly three decades of working with a diversity of clients, issues and genres. Stephanie is keen to work diversely with relationship issues family issues depression and anxiety faulty thinking self esteem learning difficulties stress performance management parenting and pregnancy including IVF.

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Teresa Caruso

Teresa’s approach is compassionate, open-minded, and collaborative – she employs various strategies and techniques that will best suit you as an individual. Teresa has broad experience with a range of difficulties including anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ concerns, PTSD, addiction, ADHD, NDIS, eating disorders, grief and loss, stress & anger management, violence or family trauma, personality disorders, career & couples counselling.

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Tiffany Lin

Help me help you! I value building a strong rapport with each individual to achieve their personal and mental health well-being goals. My approach is warm, empathetic, and understanding and I am passionate about creating a safe, authentic, and non-judgemental environment in session.

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Tina Viduka

Tina has over 22 years experience working as a psychologist supporting with children, adolescents, adults and families. Tina is interested in supporting anxiety, depression, low self esteem, interpersonal difficulties, work related issues and perfectionism. She also has a keen interest in working with adolescents and young adults.

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Trisha Nowland

Trisha has experience working with a diverse range of clients including children, community from different cultural backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, and LGBT+ community.

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Usha Mogannavale

Client-centred therapy lies at the center of my practice of psychology; where the client’s needs, personal perspectives and preferences inform my treatment methods and choices. I see psychological treatment as a collaborative experience forged by the kindred rapport between the client and myself. My clients and I embark on the recovery journey together and I ensure my approach enables the client to eventually become independent where they no longer need my contribution and have found a stronger, richer version of themselves through therapy.

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Victoria Ryan

Hello – I look forward to talking with you. I consider that effective counseling is founded on respect and conducted in the spirit of equality. I am interested in understanding each person as an individual with a unique history. In my work I value honesty and openness, and hold a strong personal and professional viewpoint that there can always something better for you in any given adverse (bad) situation.

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Wanda Little

I look forward to meeting you, getting to know you and forming a supportive and trusting therapeutic relationship that is centered on working together to create the life you wish for. I have worked extensively with young people from the ages of 5-18 and their families with the goal of always being respectful, an advocate and assisting clients to navigate their difficulties so that they can lead a rich and full life.

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Will Chen

Will has worked with people across the lifespan, specialising in helping children and young adults in coping with stress in schools and workplaces, as well as building up interpersonal relationships and assertive communication skills. He has also helped people experiencing disordered eating, addiction, anxiety, depression and coping with transition and change.

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William Heaton

Will is a warm and compassionate Psychologist who is passionate about supporting individuals attain greater mental health and well-being. Therapeutic sessions are centered around helping individuals gain a deeper insight of themselves, their behavioural patterns and self-beliefs.

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Yaari Caroline Self

I am looking forward to meeting many and varied clients to work with together to bring the very best in your life. My style is relaxed and friendly and I like to focus on the relationship we build together.
I have practiced for over 30 years with all range of problems so I welcome all or any struggles in your life,. We will approach issues together looking at the emotional processes, thoughts and feelings.

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