IPC Health is committed to safe, welcoming and culturally responsive services for all.

IPC Health respects and supports all diverse communities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender diverse, intersex, queer and questioning, asexual, and other diverse genders and sexualities not otherwise described (LGBTIQA+). We recognise the negative impact that discrimination can have on a person’s health and wellbeing and aim to provide inclusive care.

Our Mental Health Counselling team works from an inclusive, client-centred approach and is committed to providing a safe and affirming space for LGBTIQA+ people. While our service is open to anyone living, working, or studying in the IPC Health catchment, we have experience supporting clients around:

• Gender identity and sexuality exploration
• Mental health impacts of discrimination or minority stress
• Relationship and family dynamics, including chosen family
• Support during transitions processes

We use evidence-based modalities such as trauma-informed care, strengths-based practice, and culturally safe frameworks. We also can work closely with external services when specialist support is needed, and can provide referrals to LGBTIQA+ specific organisations such as Switchboard, Thorne Harbour Health, and Transgender Victoria.

Our mental health service offers:

• A safe, affirming environment for all clients.
• Confidential counselling for those that live in Brimbank, Hobsons Bay or Wyndham local Government areas that is either free (for low-income individuals) or low-cost (higher income earners above threshold).
• A range of program streams - Head to Health, Care In Mind (including suicide prevention intensive support) and Community Health Counselling. Clients can get up to 12 sessions per year for up to 2 years.
• A range of face-to-face options at all our campus locations and flexibility to do telehealth video or phone sessions.

For more information, visit our Mental Health Service page .