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LGBTQ2+ Counselling
All Ages
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"Don't ever be afraid to show off your true colors"
About LGBTQ2+ Counselling

Topics specific to those who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Trans, Queer, Two-Spirited and beyond (LGBTQ2+) are unique. No two journeys are the same. Counsellors at WCC have experience in supporting clients and their families on topics specific to sexual orientation, attraction , gender identity and gender expression.

Whether you are seeking counselling for sexuality topics specifically, or if this is part of your identity and you want someone who can counsel from a perspective that fits for you, WCC can offer support. Depression, anxiety, emotional wellness, relationship concerns, topics around growing up and socialization are all topics seen in counselling. 

Everyone’s journey is different. Our goal is to support you towards health, and happiness. Your experience might not fit into the box we have come to expect with these topics either. Regardless of the struggle you or someone you know may be facing, it’s valid and it’s something we can help you move through.

Common LGBTQ2+ Topics

Anxiety is unique in that many symptoms are similar, but can present differently between people. Counselling helps someone explore their presentation of anxiety, and digs to to find an understanding of where it comes from, and how to manage it effectively.

Like depression, there are a number of approaches in counselling to address anxiety. Often times, a mixture of these is most effective. These approaches include:


  • Social aspects, such as coming out, speaking with friends and family, and changing information about yourself online
  • Questioning or feeling confused about your identity, orientation or presentation
  • Learning how to help or support someone you know and love through their process
  • Hormone Readiness Assessments (see below)
  • Life and relationship transitions
  • Relationship upset with friends, family or partner

Hormone Readiness Assessments

While counselling is not a required for hormone therapy, counselling can certainly be helpful. If any of the following apply to you, counselling might be helpful.


  • You are not out to the people in your life who will be your support system
  • You have minimal to no social supports such as friends or close family
  • Unsure of how to come out to those in your life
  • Unsure if hormone therapy is right for you
  • History or present mental health concerns including depression and/or anxiety
  • Wanting someone to talk to about your personal journey or experiences

WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) Standards of Care require an assessment before someone can receive Hormone Therapy. Presently, Version 7 of this Standard of Care is standard in British Columbia. At WCC, a Hormone Readiness Assessment is a report written by a counsellor to determine if a client is ready for hormone therapy.

Typically, this assessment is done by a medical professional (such as a family doctor) with the ability to prescribe hormone therapy to patients. Counsellors are able to do these assessments as well, and provide a referral  to a medical clinician who can prescribe from there. The benefit of having a mental health professional complete this assessment includes a more in-depth relationship, history of conversation about mental health, and to have someone to walk through the journey with you. An assessment done with a counsellor provides doctors with the background and in-depth understanding of a client or patients history. In addition this assessment also provides the prescribing clinician with support by another care provider who will be on your team through this period of time. During an assessment, we discuss your history. This include medical, psychological, personal, and gender specific. We speak about goals, risks, and the effects you might expect once you start hormones. These parts are different for everyone, as they depend on goals and types of hormones you are thinking about. In addition to your medical goals, we will also talk about social goals. Typically, this assessment is around 1.5 hours. Alternatively, this can be done over the course of 2 appointments as well. Finally, a report will sent directly to you as the client, and/or to a doctor of your choosing.  As with all that is said in counselling, your information is private and confidential without written consent. To inquire about Hormone Readiness Assessments, please call 250-317-4346 or email julie@clarityokanagan.com