2SLGBTQ+ COUNSELLING

Max Denley is a trans man and Registered Social Worker based in the Toronto area, whose practice focuses on supports for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, families, and communities. As a member of this community with lived and professional experience, he is passionate about supporting people to be who they are, and building strong allies. In addition to holding space for exploring and processing identity related experiences, he supports clients experiencing a variety of mental health symptoms and concerns, navigating relationships and social situations, "coming out," and coping with other life challenges. Max uses a flexible approach that incorporates multiple therapeutic modalities and can involve individual, family, youth, or caregiver sessions to best suit the needs of each client. He aims to meet clients wherever they are at in their journeys, and support the direction they would like to move towards without judgement or pressure.

Janine Fernandes is a 2SLGBTQ+ social worker and proud member of and advocate for the queer community. Through her many years of experience, Janine has learned to centre the youth she works with as the experts of their own lives. She acknowledges every individual has had their own unique journey to get here and her curious stance allows her to partner with youth to chart their own paths forward. Janine has completed a vast variety of educational trainings with a focus on inclusive and anti-oppressive practice for trans and queer youth in healthcare, social work, and therapy. Her youth clients and their chosen advocates, friends, and/or caregivers help drive the topics, focus, and goals in counselling and she uses motivational interviewing approaches to let them determine their level of readiness, their barriers, and the desires they hold for lasting change. No matter where you are in the process, Janine is willing to walk with you towards the future that you are hoping for and to make those important dreams come closer to reality.