Free short-term counselling, longer-term counselling through a Mental Health Care Plan, and therapeutic groups on issues like anxiety.
You shouldn't have to explain the basics of being LGBTIQA+ or living with HIV before you can talk about what's actually going on for you. Our counsellors and peer workers already understand the weight of stigma, discrimination and family rejection, so the conversation starts where you need it to.
Thorne Harbour Health
Online
Cost
Contact us
What we help with
Our counsellors and peer workers support people around:
- Coming out, identity exploration and gender affirmation
- Anxiety, depression and low mood
- Relationships, break-ups and family rejection
- Loneliness, isolation and building connection
- Grief, loss and trauma
- Stigma, discrimination and hate-based experiences
- Living with HIV and sexual health stress
- Building resistance in the face of adversity
- Developing tools to manage poor mental health
- Building a stronger sense of self
If you’re unsure whether counselling, AOD or family violence support is the best fit — we can help you decide. There is no wrong door.
Please note it may take up to several weeks for us to process your referral. We understand that waiting for support can be difficult. In the meantime, please see our crisis support links if you need immediate help.
Support options
Choose a mental health support that works for you.
Short-term Counselling (Free)
Free, short-term support (up to 6 sessions)
May suit if you:
- Need support quickly (wait times may apply, unless you’ve had a recent HIV diagnosis)
- Are experiencing financial hardship
- Are looking for brief or solution-focused counselling
Long-term Counselling ($50 a session)
We're sorry, this service is currently full. We'll let you know when it reopens!
With a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP you can access up to 10 medicare-subsidised sessions per year with our Under the Rainbow program.
May suit if you:
- Want longer-term therapy
- Prefer greater session flexibility
- Are able to contribute to session costs
This program costs $50 out-of-pocket per session. An intial upfront fee of $151.55 is charged, followed by a $101.55 medicare rebate.
Groups
We also run structured therapeutic groups for LGBTIQA+ people focused on:
- Anxiety, stress and mental wellbeing
- Substance use and mental health
- Building coping skills and confidence
- Strengthening relationships and connection
Call us to find out more about our therapeutic groups or find upcoming dates below.
Outside Central Melbourne
If you are aged 26+ and live in Dandenong, Melton, Bendigo, Kyneton or Echuca, we offer free, local support through the Mental Health & Wellbeing Locals.
Location
200 Hoddle Street, Abbotsford. Time-limited street parking is available nearby. The clinic is a five-minute walk from Victoria Park Station, with bus stops located on Hoddle Street.
Accessibility
Our site is wheelchair accessible.
We have one accessible parking bay in the rear car park and another on Studley Street, next to the building. Please call reception on (03) 9865 6700 if you need further directions.
Your privacy
Your information is kept confidential and secure. We only share your information with your consent or where required by law. You can request access to your medical record at any time. Our services comply with Australian and Victorian privacy laws.
Feedback and complaints
We welcome your feedback. Please fill out our feedback form or speak with your clinician.
If you are not satisfied with our response, you can contact the Health Complaints Commissioner.
Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals
Free mental health support from Thorne Harbour Health staff in Dandenong, Melton, Bendigo, Kyneton and Echuca.

Find related services
Not what you were looking for? Find something else.
Family Violence
Free, LGBTIQA+ affirming support for people experiencing family violence, and support for people who want to change their behaviour.
Trans and Gender Diverse Clinic
Equinox trans and gender diverse clinic. Services include hormone management, sexual health screening, and general care.
Living with HIV
Support, community and practical services to help you live well with HIV.
Alcohol & Other Drugs
Free, LGBTIQA+ affirming support to help you change your relationship with alcohol or other drugs.
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