Photo of Sawyer Johnson, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Sawyer Johnson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6J  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it means to be a part of the queer and trans community? Hi! My name is Sawyer and I use they/them pronouns. I’m a queer, transgender, non-binary registered social worker, and therapist working with Positive Space Consulting. I’m looking to connect deeply with the queer and trans community in a relational and curious way. I hold a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Social Work from the Univesity of Calgary.
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it means to be a part of the queer and trans community? Hi! My name is Sawyer and I use they/them pronouns. I’m a queer, transgender, non-binary registered social worker, and therapist working with Positive Space Consulting. I’m looking to connect deeply with the queer and trans community in a relational and curious way. I hold a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Social Work from the Univesity of Calgary.
(437) 372-5463 View (437) 372-5463
Photo of Alexander Orr, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Alexander Orr
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y  (Online Only)
I can support individuals 16+ who may have challenges with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, emotional regulation, ADHD/Autism symptoms, gender dysphoria, social or medical transition, and more.
Hey! I’m Alexander (he/they). I’m a Registered Social Worker and a MSW graduate through the University of Windsor. Over the years, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge through lived experience, research, and in the field of social services. My professional journey has been shaped by a commitment to working from a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and systemic lens. I greet my clients with compassion and kindness, and sometimes will include a dad joke or two to break the ice. My goal with working with you is to provide a welcoming and inclusive virtual space where you can just simply be yourself, no explanation required.
I can support individuals 16+ who may have challenges with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, emotional regulation, ADHD/Autism symptoms, gender dysphoria, social or medical transition, and more.
Hey! I’m Alexander (he/they). I’m a Registered Social Worker and a MSW graduate through the University of Windsor. Over the years, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge through lived experience, research, and in the field of social services. My professional journey has been shaped by a commitment to working from a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and systemic lens. I greet my clients with compassion and kindness, and sometimes will include a dad joke or two to break the ice. My goal with working with you is to provide a welcoming and inclusive virtual space where you can just simply be yourself, no explanation required.
(833) 662-3178 View (833) 662-3178
Photo of Makinz Madigan Meisel, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Makinz Madigan Meisel
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
***CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** I am a client-centered, trauma-informed practicing queer social worker. I specialize in clinical practice; as well as, connecting my clients to appropriate community services and supports. I am committed to serving diverse communities as a social worker and advocate. I specialize in aiding 2SLGBTQIA communities with a focus on folks who identify as transgender/non gender conforming/fluid. Moreover, I have years of experience working with individuals with disabilities, dual diagnosis, mental health, specifically mood disorders, and trauma.
***CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** I am a client-centered, trauma-informed practicing queer social worker. I specialize in clinical practice; as well as, connecting my clients to appropriate community services and supports. I am committed to serving diverse communities as a social worker and advocate. I specialize in aiding 2SLGBTQIA communities with a focus on folks who identify as transgender/non gender conforming/fluid. Moreover, I have years of experience working with individuals with disabilities, dual diagnosis, mental health, specifically mood disorders, and trauma.
(647) 492-5207 View (647) 492-5207
Photo of Jay Jonah, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Jay Jonah
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4C  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with queer, transgender and GNC individuals as well as the parents and partners of 2SILGBTQ individuals. I will work collaboratively with you to navigate life’s challenges, uncover your strengths, build resilience, and broaden your understanding of self and others. When it comes to mental wellness people often suffer in silence. I know from experience breaking the silence and finding the right person to talk to can be freeing. As a person with lived experience of being trans/ queer, depression, anxiety, body shame, and self-doubt I understand the importance of community, chosen family, and support.
I specialize in working with queer, transgender and GNC individuals as well as the parents and partners of 2SILGBTQ individuals. I will work collaboratively with you to navigate life’s challenges, uncover your strengths, build resilience, and broaden your understanding of self and others. When it comes to mental wellness people often suffer in silence. I know from experience breaking the silence and finding the right person to talk to can be freeing. As a person with lived experience of being trans/ queer, depression, anxiety, body shame, and self-doubt I understand the importance of community, chosen family, and support.
(647) 492-1512 View (647) 492-1512
Photo of Amy O'Leary, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Amy O'Leary
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y  (Online Only)
If you're concerned about finances or affording therapy, I can offer sliding scale rates for members of the transgender community.
Taking new clients for evenings and weekends! As a therapist, I treat adults seeking support with their sexual orientation or gender identity, along with the challenges of coming out. I also treat symptoms such as anxiety, and depression, or are seeking assistance in family conflicts. As a member of the WPATH, I can offer letters for adults seeking gender-affirming care services that require a therapist's letter. Lastly, those who come to see me want to look deep into themselves, and set goals to parse through their internal judgments to see how our negative experiences with others and society have impacted our own self-esteem.
If you're concerned about finances or affording therapy, I can offer sliding scale rates for members of the transgender community.
Taking new clients for evenings and weekends! As a therapist, I treat adults seeking support with their sexual orientation or gender identity, along with the challenges of coming out. I also treat symptoms such as anxiety, and depression, or are seeking assistance in family conflicts. As a member of the WPATH, I can offer letters for adults seeking gender-affirming care services that require a therapist's letter. Lastly, those who come to see me want to look deep into themselves, and set goals to parse through their internal judgments to see how our negative experiences with others and society have impacted our own self-esteem.
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Photo of Jake Farr, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Jake Farr
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M3C  (Online Only)
I specialize in transgender care.
My philosophy is, you are not broken, you are not something to be fixed! There is something you are wanting to change. That is the focus of what we can work on together. All individuals seeking assistance to navigate their life's journey are welcomed. I listen to what your needs are, help provide you with tools to find a path to break down barriers that are keeping you from living your best life. I believe a counsellor and a client must be able to establish a trusting relationship to make the most of the time spent together. I offer structured/non structured therapies depending on the needs of the clients.
I specialize in transgender care.
My philosophy is, you are not broken, you are not something to be fixed! There is something you are wanting to change. That is the focus of what we can work on together. All individuals seeking assistance to navigate their life's journey are welcomed. I listen to what your needs are, help provide you with tools to find a path to break down barriers that are keeping you from living your best life. I believe a counsellor and a client must be able to establish a trusting relationship to make the most of the time spent together. I offer structured/non structured therapies depending on the needs of the clients.
(833) 559-7511 View (833) 559-7511
Photo of Rae Tuckey, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Rae Tuckey
Registered Social Worker, SSW, RSSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5N
When a transgender youth comes out to their family, the whole family experiences a transition. For youth, family acceptance, celebration and support are integral to feeling safe, secure, and authentically themselves at home. For parents, their child coming out as transgender means learning to reimagine a new future and gender for their child. Reimagining a child’s future can feel scary when first learning that your child is trans- parents and caregivers often worry if their child will be misunderstood or be the victim of transphobia or violence. These worries can make envisioning a future worth celebrating feel difficult for parents
When a transgender youth comes out to their family, the whole family experiences a transition. For youth, family acceptance, celebration and support are integral to feeling safe, secure, and authentically themselves at home. For parents, their child coming out as transgender means learning to reimagine a new future and gender for their child. Reimagining a child’s future can feel scary when first learning that your child is trans- parents and caregivers often worry if their child will be misunderstood or be the victim of transphobia or violence. These worries can make envisioning a future worth celebrating feel difficult for parents
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Photo of Missy Mae-Ng, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Missy Mae-Ng
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4C
I am a white, queer/bi registered social worker with experience in supporting two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, ace communities and their family members. The majority of my professional experience has been focused on supporting queer people to explore their identity, confront barriers to living authentically, and envision their futures. I also create a space for family members of queer people to take care of themselves so they can bring their whole self in connecting with their family.
I am a white, queer/bi registered social worker with experience in supporting two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, ace communities and their family members. The majority of my professional experience has been focused on supporting queer people to explore their identity, confront barriers to living authentically, and envision their futures. I also create a space for family members of queer people to take care of themselves so they can bring their whole self in connecting with their family.
(437) 291-7729 View (437) 291-7729
Photo of David Minor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Toronto, ON
David Minor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4S
Some of my specialties include: depression, anxiety, phone addiction, autism, ADHD, faith-integrated, and gender dysphoria.
Do you want a counsellour who doesn't just talk and listen but helps you create a clear plan to solve your problems and challenges right now? If so you've come to the right place! I combine the best aspects of counselling and coaching to help you gain insight into your psychological barriers, and make real change in your life. If you feel stuck and want a structured plan to move forward I can help.
Some of my specialties include: depression, anxiety, phone addiction, autism, ADHD, faith-integrated, and gender dysphoria.
Do you want a counsellour who doesn't just talk and listen but helps you create a clear plan to solve your problems and challenges right now? If so you've come to the right place! I combine the best aspects of counselling and coaching to help you gain insight into your psychological barriers, and make real change in your life. If you feel stuck and want a structured plan to move forward I can help.
(226) 799-9169 View (226) 799-9169
Photo of Dr. Ammaar Kidwai - Centre For Psychology And Emotional Healt, Psychologist in Toronto, ON
Dr. Ammaar Kidwai - Centre For Psychology And Emotional Healt
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
I specialize in assessing and treating a broad range of concerns among adults and couples. These include low mood, depression, grief, anxiety (e.g., social anxiety, panic, generalized anxiety, health anxiety), perfectionism, OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder including complex trauma (e.g., interpersonal, racial, sexual), relationship difficulties, gender and sexual identity (e.g., homophobia, transphobia), emotional regulation difficulties, suicidality, and psychosis. Moreover, I am qualified to conduct assessments for gender dysphoria and surgical readiness for transgender and other gender diverse individuals.
I specialize in assessing and treating a broad range of concerns among adults and couples. These include low mood, depression, grief, anxiety (e.g., social anxiety, panic, generalized anxiety, health anxiety), perfectionism, OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder including complex trauma (e.g., interpersonal, racial, sexual), relationship difficulties, gender and sexual identity (e.g., homophobia, transphobia), emotional regulation difficulties, suicidality, and psychosis. Moreover, I am qualified to conduct assessments for gender dysphoria and surgical readiness for transgender and other gender diverse individuals.
(437) 500-6477 View (437) 500-6477
Photo of Sarah Siddiqui, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Sarah Siddiqui
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
My practice is affirming to folks who are queer, transgender, non-monogamous, kinky, positive, and in sex work.
Healthy sexuality is a key component to overall wellbeing, and its my honour to be with you on that journey! Whether you want to explore your desires, address sexual shame, or improve your communication skills, no concern is too trivial for sex therapy. I offer a presence that is calming, approachable, and non-judgmental, with small doses of humour and irreverence.
My practice is affirming to folks who are queer, transgender, non-monogamous, kinky, positive, and in sex work.
Healthy sexuality is a key component to overall wellbeing, and its my honour to be with you on that journey! Whether you want to explore your desires, address sexual shame, or improve your communication skills, no concern is too trivial for sex therapy. I offer a presence that is calming, approachable, and non-judgmental, with small doses of humour and irreverence.
(647) 492-2745 View (647) 492-2745
Photo of Lorraine M Munro (She They), Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Lorraine M Munro (She They)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4Y
Specific areas of experience include healing from trauma; settlement and transition; parenting; work stressors, sex work and non-traditional work; gender, gender non-conforming, gender-queer, transgender experience; sexuality and relationships, including polyamory, monogamy, kink and working through conflict.
As a psychotherapist, I support you in fostering authentic relationships with yourself and your communities. I offer a space for reflection that is non-judgmental, queer positive - and has wheelchair access. I draw on a variety of approaches, with a focus on what works for you, and the different parts of you.
Specific areas of experience include healing from trauma; settlement and transition; parenting; work stressors, sex work and non-traditional work; gender, gender non-conforming, gender-queer, transgender experience; sexuality and relationships, including polyamory, monogamy, kink and working through conflict.
As a psychotherapist, I support you in fostering authentic relationships with yourself and your communities. I offer a space for reflection that is non-judgmental, queer positive - and has wheelchair access. I draw on a variety of approaches, with a focus on what works for you, and the different parts of you.
(855) 980-1801 View (855) 980-1801
Photo of Yasmin Kowlessar, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Yasmin Kowlessar
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6G  (Online Only)
In order to facilitate insight and cultivate empowerment, I work to support my clients in adopting mental wellness, exploring identity formation, understanding intergenerational trauma, navigating issues related to body image and gender dysphoria, and negotiating interpersonal relationships.
As a queer Trini-Canadian psychotherapist, I combine my training in psychology with my intersectional feminist values and lived experience when supporting my clients. I specialize in working with LGBTQ and BIPOC (racialized) clients as well as intersectional identities. In addition to expertise in culturally-sensitive therapy, I'm also well-versed in issues related to queer and trans health, polyamory / non-monogamy, and kink / BDSM culture.
In order to facilitate insight and cultivate empowerment, I work to support my clients in adopting mental wellness, exploring identity formation, understanding intergenerational trauma, navigating issues related to body image and gender dysphoria, and negotiating interpersonal relationships.
As a queer Trini-Canadian psychotherapist, I combine my training in psychology with my intersectional feminist values and lived experience when supporting my clients. I specialize in working with LGBTQ and BIPOC (racialized) clients as well as intersectional identities. In addition to expertise in culturally-sensitive therapy, I'm also well-versed in issues related to queer and trans health, polyamory / non-monogamy, and kink / BDSM culture.
(647) 492-2640 View (647) 492-2640
Photo of Brad Garrison, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Brad Garrison
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5B  (Online Only)
I specialize in sex therapy, couples / marriage counselling, and work with LGBTQ+ and transgender communities and have experience offering service to diverse clients from marginalized, BIPOC, poly, and kink communities.
Sex and relationships are often at the core of our lives. The ways in which we connect with others - and with ourselves - can have significant impacts on our health and well-being. Communication barriers, sexual dysfunction, disconnection, infidelity, domestic abuse, trauma, and other kinds of psychosocial concerns are common challenges that lead people to seek therapy with me. Many of my clients are wanting to calm anxiety, develop coping skills, increase sexual satisfaction, reconnect with partners, or heal from trauma and abuse.
I specialize in sex therapy, couples / marriage counselling, and work with LGBTQ+ and transgender communities and have experience offering service to diverse clients from marginalized, BIPOC, poly, and kink communities.
Sex and relationships are often at the core of our lives. The ways in which we connect with others - and with ourselves - can have significant impacts on our health and well-being. Communication barriers, sexual dysfunction, disconnection, infidelity, domestic abuse, trauma, and other kinds of psychosocial concerns are common challenges that lead people to seek therapy with me. Many of my clients are wanting to calm anxiety, develop coping skills, increase sexual satisfaction, reconnect with partners, or heal from trauma and abuse.
(249) 444-4094 View (249) 444-4094
Photo of Sherel Griffiths Therapy & Mediation Services, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Sherel Griffiths Therapy & Mediation Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MSW, LCSW, CFT, AFM, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5T  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Through CFT training, an internship at MUSIC, and being a member of the transgender research group, I have developed a growing competency and keen interest in working with 2SLGBTQIA+ racialized, immigrant clients and couples.
Maneuvering through the different stages of "Life Journey" can be fulfilling as well as filled with periods of high stress, and emotional imbalance. Through the guiding principles of dignity, diversity, and self-determination, individual therapy brings growth by focusing on your strengths and resilience. Couple therapy can be beneficial to couples who are looking to strengthen their emotional connection in all stages of their relationship. Through the process of couple therapy, I vow to help you understand and become unstuck from the repetitive cycle of miscommunication, stepping on each other's toes, and triggering unhealed wounds.
Through CFT training, an internship at MUSIC, and being a member of the transgender research group, I have developed a growing competency and keen interest in working with 2SLGBTQIA+ racialized, immigrant clients and couples.
Maneuvering through the different stages of "Life Journey" can be fulfilling as well as filled with periods of high stress, and emotional imbalance. Through the guiding principles of dignity, diversity, and self-determination, individual therapy brings growth by focusing on your strengths and resilience. Couple therapy can be beneficial to couples who are looking to strengthen their emotional connection in all stages of their relationship. Through the process of couple therapy, I vow to help you understand and become unstuck from the repetitive cycle of miscommunication, stepping on each other's toes, and triggering unhealed wounds.
(438) 255-4340 View (438) 255-4340
Photo of Alex Norris, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Alex Norris
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4M  (Online Only)
We all have stories that we tell about ourselves, our lives, and that others tell about us. Often when we’re struggling, these stories are about feeling powerless, hopeless, scared, and are full of shame and self-doubt. My therapeutic approach explores these narratives, creating space for new, richer stories to emerge. We’ll explore the stories different parts of yourself tell you, drawing you closer to your values, deconstructing your patterns and uncovering your strengths and resiliency to find new paths forward. We will build a deeper understanding of what you've been through, where you are, and where you're going.
We all have stories that we tell about ourselves, our lives, and that others tell about us. Often when we’re struggling, these stories are about feeling powerless, hopeless, scared, and are full of shame and self-doubt. My therapeutic approach explores these narratives, creating space for new, richer stories to emerge. We’ll explore the stories different parts of yourself tell you, drawing you closer to your values, deconstructing your patterns and uncovering your strengths and resiliency to find new paths forward. We will build a deeper understanding of what you've been through, where you are, and where you're going.
(647) 957-9421 View (647) 957-9421
Photo of Wesley Giselle Gos, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Wesley Giselle Gos
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
I provide a warm and accepting place where you can be yourself - with all your thoughts and feelings, whatever they might be. Together we will explore what's going on in your life today, and how past experiences affect you in the present. I support you in identifying and moving towards areas of growth and healing that feel right for you, so that you can feel better and thrive in all aspects of your life, including your relationship with yourself and others.
I provide a warm and accepting place where you can be yourself - with all your thoughts and feelings, whatever they might be. Together we will explore what's going on in your life today, and how past experiences affect you in the present. I support you in identifying and moving towards areas of growth and healing that feel right for you, so that you can feel better and thrive in all aspects of your life, including your relationship with yourself and others.
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Photo of Robyn Letson (They-Them), Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Robyn Letson (They-Them)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6S  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I'm a queer, transmasculine therapist with a background in health and community-based work, as well as in music, writing, and theatre. I draw upon a range of strengths-based and trauma-informed therapy approaches with the intention of increasing my clients' capacity to safely connect to themselves and to move toward ways of living and relating that affirm them in their wholeness. I aim to be an active and supportive presence in the therapy process, and to work in a way that is guided by the political frameworks I value in my everyday life: anti-oppression, harm reduction, and abolition.
Hello and welcome! I'm a queer, transmasculine therapist with a background in health and community-based work, as well as in music, writing, and theatre. I draw upon a range of strengths-based and trauma-informed therapy approaches with the intention of increasing my clients' capacity to safely connect to themselves and to move toward ways of living and relating that affirm them in their wholeness. I aim to be an active and supportive presence in the therapy process, and to work in a way that is guided by the political frameworks I value in my everyday life: anti-oppression, harm reduction, and abolition.
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Photo of Tate Sameshima, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Tate Sameshima
Registered Psychotherapist, dipTIRP, BFA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M9A
Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed by the current state of the world and all its grieving parts or you’ve been meaning to start this journey for a while now. Maybe you've noticed a repeating of patterns in relationship, causing you upset and overwhelm. No matter what you bring with you, we can move through it all and make sense of it, together, at a pace that feels right for you. And when you feel ready, we will face the difficult pieces of your story, together.
Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed by the current state of the world and all its grieving parts or you’ve been meaning to start this journey for a while now. Maybe you've noticed a repeating of patterns in relationship, causing you upset and overwhelm. No matter what you bring with you, we can move through it all and make sense of it, together, at a pace that feels right for you. And when you feel ready, we will face the difficult pieces of your story, together.
(289) 276-7528 View (289) 276-7528
Photo of Andrew Holmes - Social Worker Clinical Supervisor, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Andrew Holmes - Social Worker Clinical Supervisor
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y  (Online Only)
Your past does not have to define your future. You are not doomed to repeat the same mistakes. You can manage stress, racing thoughts, and overwhelming emotions. Your story is a work in progress, and much is still unwritten. You can heal and grow beyond what you think is possible. You can revise your story to one of healing, hope and joy. I know this because I have healed from my own trauma story. You don’t have to do this alone. Together we will create a safe container where we can journey together. I am dedicated to making this journey with you, to a place of wholeness, healing, connection and transformation.
Your past does not have to define your future. You are not doomed to repeat the same mistakes. You can manage stress, racing thoughts, and overwhelming emotions. Your story is a work in progress, and much is still unwritten. You can heal and grow beyond what you think is possible. You can revise your story to one of healing, hope and joy. I know this because I have healed from my own trauma story. You don’t have to do this alone. Together we will create a safe container where we can journey together. I am dedicated to making this journey with you, to a place of wholeness, healing, connection and transformation.
(647) 492-9244 View (647) 492-9244

See more therapy options for Toronto

Transgender Counsellors

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognise a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognise a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.