LGBTIQA+ and Diversity Counselling

We welcome everyone.

At ALY'S PLACE, everyone is welcome.

We don't see people as categories or boxes to label, rather we see each of you as another fellow human being.

We also know how hard it can be to find a safe, supporting and understanding space if your journey is different to the one most people have.

We also value lived experiences of people with diverse backgrounds and want to highlight their strengths and wisdoms.

Our specialist LGBTIQA+, queer and diversity counsellor Charlie Lee is here to help you explore and navigate your unique life circumstances, in a supportive and understanding way.

Meet Amar (they/them)

Hi, I’m Amar! My pronouns are they/them.

I was born and raised in India, but I have lived in Melbourne for more than half my life.

My educational and professional experience is quite varied starting off with completing a Bachelor of Science, to completing my PhD in 2022 exploring the experiences of family violence within the Indian community in Australia and their help-seeking behaviours.

Moving to Melbourne as a young teen, I struggled with identity and belonging, forming relationships (platonic and romantic), and understanding myself. Through life experiences and my support network, I have realised the importance of relationships – with self and with others – and how they are paramount to our overall wellbeing.

Queer counselling, to me, is all about empowerment and advocacy while providing a safe space for you to speak your mind without the fear of being judged. I am here to help you explore and make sense of your unique experiences.

My Qualifications

I hold a PhD in Family Violence and a Master’s in Secondary Teaching, and I am currently completing a Master's Degree in Counselling at Monash University. I also have a Bachelor of Science and a Graduate Certificate in Educational Research.