I came to psychosocial counselling for a variety of reasons. First of all, there is my passion for working with people, which always allows me to have exciting encounters. Then there were my growing interest in the field of psychology as well as my own therapy experiences, which showed me how much positive change is possible. And finally, there was my journey to discovering and celebrating my queer identity. I wish I had queer psychological support that didn’t require me to explain basic issues around sexuality, relationships, and gender over and over again.
That’s why I made it my goal to create such a space with queer.growing.support. I did my three-year training in counselling at GFK Institute in Zurich and pursue continuing education to work on my skills. I write more about my methods here. In addition to my practice, I work part-time in the field of career counseling and am currently training as a career, study and career counselor. I originally studied various subjects in the humanities.
Maya Wohlgemuth, *1989
My Counselling Principles
Through my counselling, I offer a queer space for self-awareness, self-exploration, and overcoming difficult situations. I assume that you know yourself best. In my sessions I do not offer solutions, but I am happy to help you find your own way. The body is equally as important to me as the psychological, mental, spiritual. I regularly take supervision and strive for transparency in the counselling process. This can also mean that I refer someone to a specialist if I am not able to accompany them appropriately.
My ideal is to create a difference-sensitive space. I borrow the word “difference-sensitive” from Mai-Anh Boger. I understand this to mean a mindful approach to the experiences we have because of our different positions in society. The goal is for as many people as possible to feel comfortable in this difference-sensitive space. This involves a constant examination of my own privileges and position of power as a “mental health professional.” I also see psychosocial counselling as political work, which is why it is important for me to be transparent about my experience. The following labels, among others, determine my perspective within our (Swiss) society: white, middle class, with university education, non-religious, non-binary, transmasculine, dyadic, pansexual, non-monogamous.
Our sessions are not detached from the social structures. In the case of experiences such as discrimination, we can work together in counselling to find a way of dealing with the situation that is right for you. However, the fact that racism, ableism, queerphobia, classism, etc. are ingrained in our society should also be given space and such experiences should not be psychologized away as an individual problem.
Education
Professional Associations
SGfB – Active menber of Swiss Society for Consulting
2019-2021 Peer-To-Peer Counselling as part of the Team at HAZ.
Since 2023 I have been studying in the MAS Vocational, Study and Career Counseling at the ZHAW, expected to graduate as a certified vocational, study and career counselor SERI in 2026. As part of my permanent position, I give short consultations on career choice and career topics.
