Unsure about Therapy? Book your Free Initial Session

Embrace, support, celebrate.
Love knows no labels.

LGBTQIA+ Counselling for Family & Friends

Are you a parent, family member, or friend looking to support a loved one who identifies as LGBTQIA+? At Unboxed Pride, we understand that navigating the journey of self-discovery and acceptance can be challenging, both for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their loved ones. That’s why we offer specialised therapy services tailored to support families and friends in fostering a nurturing and affirming environment for their LGBTQIA+ loved ones and/or carers. All our therapists either identify as LGBTQIA+ or have extensive experience and commitment for rainbow community health. If you have a family or friend member going through a life transition and you are experiencing challenges, there is an array of educational resources, therapeutic techniques and communication skills that our team can offer. There can be many scenarios being a witness to a loved one identifying as LGBTQIA+, our team are dedicated to help support your goals to enhance your relationships and create building blocks for positive communication.

Here are some common challenges that LGBTQIA+ loved ones may face:

  • Understanding and Acceptance: Grappling with accepting a loved one’s LGBTQIA+ identity can be challenging.
  • Fear of Rejection: Anxiety about potential rejection or alienation from social circles may arise.
  • Cultural or Religious Beliefs: Conflicts may emerge between traditional beliefs and LGBTQIA+ acceptance.
  • Lack of Education: Limited knowledge of LGBTQIA+ issues can lead to misunderstandings.
  • Guilt or Shame: Feelings of guilt or shame may surface regarding a loved one’s identity.
  • Loss of Expectations: Letting go of preconceived notions can lead to grief.
  • Social Stigma: Fear of societal discrimination can hinder support.
  • Communication Barriers: Difficulty in discussing LGBTQIA+ identity may strain relationships.
  • Parental Concerns: Parents may worry about their child’s safety and future.
  • Navigating Relationships: Managing relationships with unsupportive relatives or friends can be challenging.

Are you a parent, family member, or friend looking to support a loved one who identifies as LGBTQIA+? At Unboxed Pride, we understand that navigating the journey of self-discovery and acceptance can be challenging, both for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their loved ones. That’s why we offer specialised therapy services tailored to support families and friends in fostering a nurturing and affirming environment for their LGBTQIA+ loved ones and/or carers. All our therapists either identify as LGBTQIA+ or have extensive experience and commitment for rainbow community health. If you have a family or friend member going through a life transition and you are experiencing challenges, there is an array of educational resources, therapeutic techniques and communication skills that our team can offer. There can be many scenarios being a witness to a loved one identifying as LGBTQIA+, our team are dedicated to help support your goals to enhance your relationships and create building blocks for positive communication.

How Our Team Can Help

At Unboxed Pride, we support LGBTQIA+ family members or loved ones by:

We’re here to listen and talk about how you are feeling

  • Creating a Safe Space: Our therapists establish a safe and confidential environment where family members or loved ones can openly express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without judgment.
  • Validation and Empathy: We offer validation and empathy to family members or loved ones as they navigate their own emotions and reactions to their loved one’s transition or coming out. We understand that this process can be complex and emotional, and we are here to support every step of the way.
  • Education and Understanding: Our therapists provide education and resources to help family members or loved ones better understand gender identity, transgender experiences, and the coming out process. This knowledge can foster empathy, reduce misconceptions, and promote acceptance.
  • Exploring Emotions: We help family members or loved ones explore and process their emotions, including any feelings of confusion, fear, grief, or guilt that may arise during this time of transition. By acknowledging and addressing these emotions, individuals can begin to heal and move forward with greater clarity and acceptance.
  • Communication Skills: Our therapists work with family members or loved ones to improve communication skills and facilitate open and honest conversations with their transitioning or LGBTQIA+ family member. Effective communication can help strengthen relationships, build trust, and foster mutual understanding.
  • Supporting Self-Care: We emphasize the importance of self-care for family members or loved ones, encouraging them to prioritize their own well-being and seek support when needed. Taking care of oneself is essential for maintaining resilience and providing effective support to others.
  • Affirming Identity: Our therapists affirm and validate the identity of the transitioning or LGBTQIA+ family member, while also acknowledging the unique challenges and experiences faced by their loved ones. We celebrate diversity and promote acceptance of all gender identities and expressions.
  • Building Resilience: Through therapy, family members or loved ones can build resilience and coping skills to navigate the challenges and uncertainties that may arise during their loved one’s transition or coming out journey. By fostering resilience, individuals can better adapt to change and thrive in their relationships and lives.

Coming out or Gender Transitions

It’s common for family members or loved one to be unfamiliar of the changes that LGBTQIA+ child, friend or parent may be working through a life transition. Gender transitions and coming out can be complex processes for individuals, but they also pose unique challenges for family members and peers. Here are some specific challenges they may face:

  1. Fear of judgment and rejection from society can hinder open support.
  2. Grief and loss may arise as family members adjust to the transition.
  3. Confusion may arise regarding name changes, pronouns, and familial roles.
  4. Concerns for the safety of the transitioning individual can be paramount.
  5. Relationships within the family may strain due to acceptance issues.
  6. Conflicts may arise between conservative beliefs and support for the transition.
  7. Pressure to conform to traditional gender norms may intensify.
  8. Financial and legal implications of transition can be worrisome.
  9. Family members may lack support networks for their own emotional journey.
  10. Understanding and accepting a loved one’s gender identity may conflict with personal beliefs.

How we can help

LGBTQIA+ therapy offers affirming support for family members or loved ones navigating the challenges of gender transitions and coming out. Therapists trained in LGBTQIA+ issues can provide a safe space to explore and process emotions, fears, and concerns. Through therapy, we can gain a deeper understanding of diversity and learn effective communication strategies to support loved ones. Therapists can also help navigate internalised biases and societal pressures, to embrace loved one’s identity authentically. Through the course of therapy we can connect family members with valuable resources and support networks, fostering a sense of community and solidarity. By addressing the unique challenges faced by families or loved ones in these situations, our team can support promoting acceptance, understanding, and harmony in relationships.

  • Providing a Safe Space: Unboxed Pride therapy offers a safe and supportive environment where parents or loved ones can express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without judgment.
  • Education and Resources: Our team of therapists can provide education and resources to help parents or loved ones better understand gender identity, sexual orientation, and the coming out process, reducing misconceptions and fostering acceptance.
  • Emotional Support: Therapy sessions offer emotional support and validation for parents or loved ones as they navigate their own feelings of confusion, fear, guilt, or grief related to their child’s identity.
  • Communication Skills: Therapists work with parents or loved ones to improve communication skills and facilitate open and honest conversations with their child about their identity and needs, strengthening relationships and fostering mutual understanding.
  • Building Resilience: Through therapy, parents or loved ones can build resilience and coping skills to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of supporting their child’s transition or coming out journey, promoting healing and connection within the family unit.
  • Connecting with Community: Therapy sessions can connect parents or loved ones with supportive communities and resources, helping them feel less isolated and more empowered in their journey of acceptance and support.
  • Advocacy and Empowerment: Therapists at Unboxed Pride can empower parents or loved ones to advocate for their child’s rights and access to affirming healthcare and support services, ensuring they receive the care and validation they deserve.

At Unboxed Pride, we are committed to supporting parents and loved ones with empathy, understanding, and respect as they navigate their own journey alongside their LGBTQIA+ loved one. Our therapists are here to provide the guidance and support needed to promote healing, acceptance, and connection within the family unit or loved ones.

Our Team Are Here for You

We are here with you every step of the way and are committed to progress and supporting you in your journey.
 Therapist image

PJ Menon

She/They
Registered Psychologist
LGBTQIA+ member, Non-Binary, Warm and Sensitive
Registered Psychologist
Tuesday & Friday
$192.90 (Private Fee)
$96.25 (With Medicare Rebate)
 Therapist image

PJ Menon

Registered Psychologist
ADD/ADHD
Alcohol & Drug Abuse
Anger management

Registered Psychologist (She/They)

I'm warm & empathetic, and love to use humour to develop therapeutic relationships. I value collaboration, and celebrate lived experiences and client wisdom in my work. I'm passionate about walking alongside others as they develop their self-compassion, confidence and identity.    
 Therapist image

Joseph Tighe

He/Him
Registered Psychologist
Male, Parent, Warm and Sensitive
Registered Psychologist
Friday
$192.90 (Private Fee)
$96.25 (With Medicare Rebate)
 Therapist image

Joseph Tighe

Registered Psychologist
ADD/ADHD
Agoraphobia
Alcohol & Drug Abuse

Registered Psychologist (He/Him)

In private practise Joe sees clients from LGBTQIA+ backgrounds be they pre-teen through to adulthood. He is passionate to with clients and their families at various stages of transitioning and offers an accepting, affirming space for all.
 Therapist image

Glenda May

She/Her
Registered Psychologist
Female, Parent, Warm and Sensitive
Registered Psychologist
Mon-Fri
$192.90 (Private Fee)
$96.25 (With Medicare Rebate)
 Therapist image

Glenda May

Registered Psychologist
ADD/ADHD
Alcohol & Drug Abuse
Anger management

Registered Psychologist (She/Her)

Clients often describe me as warm and inspirational. I have a passion for guiding introspection, facilitating self-discovery, and empowering individuals to achieve their aspirations.    
 Therapist image

Leonard W Kling

He/Him
Clinical Psychologist
Male, LGBTQIA+ member, Warm and Sensitive, Non-religous
Clinical Psychologist
Wednesday
$235.50 (Private Fee)
$93.65 (With Medicare Rebate)
 Therapist image

Leonard W Kling

Clinical Psychologist
Agoraphobia
Alcohol & Drug Abuse
Anger management

 Clinical Psychologist (He/Him) 

I’m all about positivity, compassion, and respect. I’m here to really get to know you and your personal experiences while making our sessions a welcoming and safe space. Together, we’ll work on your goals and make meaningful progress towards positive change and personal growth.
 Therapist image

Mark Podesta

He/Him
Registered Psychologist
LGBTQIA+ member, Male, Spiritual, Warm and Sensitive
General Psychologist (GradDip and Postgrad Dip -Psych)
Saturday
$192.90 (Private Fee)
$96.25 (With Medicare Rebate)
  $230 – Couples Counselling
 Therapist image

Mark Podesta

Registered Psychologist
ADD/ADHD
Alcohol & Drug Abuse
Anger management

Registered Psychologist (He/Him)

I'm a warm, caring, approachable person. I'll be guided by your strengths, needs and circumstances; empowering you to be able to create positive changes, cope with challenges and difficulties, and improve your overall wellbeing.    
 Therapist image

Keith Kulda

He/Him
Counsellor
Confident, LGBTQIA+ member, Tough but Comforting, Male
Counsellor
Wed & Thurs
$130
 Therapist image

Keith Kulda

Counsellor
ADD/ADHD
Agoraphobia
Alcohol & Drug Abuse

 Counsellor (He/Him)

My counselling approach is person-centred and focused on developing strong therapeutic partnerships and meet clients where they are. I am a proud gay man of colour with a practice motivated on helping clients with personal growth and making self-rewarding change.  
https://unboxedpride.com.au/