LGBTQ+ Psychiatrists in West Haven, CT

Photo of Brandi Krassler - Shoreline Wellness Center and Outreach, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Shoreline Wellness Center and Outreach
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
West Haven, CT 06516
Now accepting patients in Mass! Shoreline Wellness Center is a compassionate behavioral health practice helping individuals achieve mental wellness and balance. We specialize in treating bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and more across the lifespan. Our clients seek emotional stability, stronger relationships, and personal growth through a supportive, collaborative approach. Led by Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health APRN Brandi Krassler and Board-Certified Psychiatrist Dr. Sam Hawley, our team brings expertise in pediatrics, trauma, autism, grief, and disaster relief. Take the first step toward healing!
Now accepting patients in Mass! Shoreline Wellness Center is a compassionate behavioral health practice helping individuals achieve mental wellness and balance. We specialize in treating bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and more across the lifespan. Our clients seek emotional stability, stronger relationships, and personal growth through a supportive, collaborative approach. Led by Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health APRN Brandi Krassler and Board-Certified Psychiatrist Dr. Sam Hawley, our team brings expertise in pediatrics, trauma, autism, grief, and disaster relief. Take the first step toward healing!
(203) 896-8307 View (203) 896-8307
Photo of Ivie Okunbor - CareVille Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP
CareVille Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
West Haven, CT 06516
Ivie Okunbor, the owner of CareVille Psychiatry, stands out by providing culturally sensitive, compassionate, person-centered, and evidence-based care. She fosters a safe, nonjudgmental environment where patients feel supported and empowered. She develops individualized treatment plans that cater to each patient's unique needs, incorporating psychotherapy and medication management to achieve optimal outcomes. She offers in-person and telehealth services through secure platforms, allowing patients to receive therapy and medication management from the comfort of their homes. This approach ensures convenience and continuity of care
Ivie Okunbor, the owner of CareVille Psychiatry, stands out by providing culturally sensitive, compassionate, person-centered, and evidence-based care. She fosters a safe, nonjudgmental environment where patients feel supported and empowered. She develops individualized treatment plans that cater to each patient's unique needs, incorporating psychotherapy and medication management to achieve optimal outcomes. She offers in-person and telehealth services through secure platforms, allowing patients to receive therapy and medication management from the comfort of their homes. This approach ensures convenience and continuity of care
(475) 447-1443 View (475) 447-1443
Photo of Paul Furino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Paul Furino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgemental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
Now Accepting New Clients! My ideal client is one who is ready for a change in treating their mental health concerns. I am open, nonjudgemental, and bring to you many years' experience in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Many clients struggle with the stigma of receiving mental health treatment, I would like to offer a breath of fresh air in our approach to treating your mental health concerns, and dispel any doubts you may have about improving your mental health.
(860) 390-4126 View (860) 390-4126
Photo of Theresa Antwi - Wholistic Perspective, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Serves Area
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
(203) 433-6890 View (203) 433-6890
Photo of Kelly Scott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Kelly Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Online Only
I've worked with clients from all walks of life, including the LGBTQ+ community, adolescents with eating disorders, individuals pursuing hormone replacement therapy or gender-affirming surgery, and adults managing complex conditions like addiction or trauma.
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, ADHD, addiction, or navigating gender dysphoria, my goal is to ensure that you feel heard, understood, and empowered. With advanced training in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy from New York University, I focus on evidence-based treatments tailored to your unique needs, combining supportive psychotherapy with reframing thoughts and building positive coping skills. Together, we'll work to reduce feelings of stigma, create meaningful progress, and restore hope.
I've worked with clients from all walks of life, including the LGBTQ+ community, adolescents with eating disorders, individuals pursuing hormone replacement therapy or gender-affirming surgery, and adults managing complex conditions like addiction or trauma.
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, ADHD, addiction, or navigating gender dysphoria, my goal is to ensure that you feel heard, understood, and empowered. With advanced training in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy from New York University, I focus on evidence-based treatments tailored to your unique needs, combining supportive psychotherapy with reframing thoughts and building positive coping skills. Together, we'll work to reduce feelings of stigma, create meaningful progress, and restore hope.
(332) 281-9280 View (332) 281-9280
Photo of John Minner, Psychiatrist, MD
John Minner
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you looking for a responsive, collaborative, and empathetic psychiatrist? I work with adult clients on a variety of mental health issues including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and OCD. I bring an educational spirit to my practice; if you have questions about your diagnoses, medications, or understanding yourself and your own habits, I love educating and learning together. I believe wholeheartedly in the safety and efficacy of psychiatric medications, but some patients ask me if they still need medication, or how to come off of them safely. If that's you, I'll work with you on a personalized medication regimen.
Are you looking for a responsive, collaborative, and empathetic psychiatrist? I work with adult clients on a variety of mental health issues including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and OCD. I bring an educational spirit to my practice; if you have questions about your diagnoses, medications, or understanding yourself and your own habits, I love educating and learning together. I believe wholeheartedly in the safety and efficacy of psychiatric medications, but some patients ask me if they still need medication, or how to come off of them safely. If that's you, I'll work with you on a personalized medication regimen.
(203) 692-4662 View (203) 692-4662

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Samuel Sondalle, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Samuel Sondalle
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
New Haven, CT 06511
I help children, adolescents, and adults make sense of their inner world and grow toward a more authentic, fulfilling life. Many of my patients come to me feeling stuck, caught in repeating patterns of thought, emotion, or relationship that no longer serve them. They want to understand themselves more deeply, feel more at ease in their own lives, and make lasting change. Together, we work to uncover the meanings beneath symptoms and move toward greater clarity, freedom, and wholeness.
I help children, adolescents, and adults make sense of their inner world and grow toward a more authentic, fulfilling life. Many of my patients come to me feeling stuck, caught in repeating patterns of thought, emotion, or relationship that no longer serve them. They want to understand themselves more deeply, feel more at ease in their own lives, and make lasting change. Together, we work to uncover the meanings beneath symptoms and move toward greater clarity, freedom, and wholeness.
(475) 455-3351 View (475) 455-3351
Photo of Douglas Zelisko, Psychiatrist, MD
Douglas Zelisko
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
(860) 854-7338 View (860) 854-7338
Photo of Nelson Leach - Blues & Blahs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PHMNPBC, DNP-BC
Blues & Blahs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PHMNPBC, DNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Milford, CT 06461
My experience includes Yale New Haven Hospital, the VA, and founding Blues & Blahs, a queer-owned practice.
From Blah to Better. That’s the goal. Not perfection. Not pretending everything is fine. Just better. Maybe your brain won’t slow down. Maybe you’re exhausted from holding it all together. Maybe something feels off, or you just don’t feel like yourself anymore. Through medication management, therapy, or both, we’ll help you understand what’s going on and start feeling better.
My experience includes Yale New Haven Hospital, the VA, and founding Blues & Blahs, a queer-owned practice.
From Blah to Better. That’s the goal. Not perfection. Not pretending everything is fine. Just better. Maybe your brain won’t slow down. Maybe you’re exhausted from holding it all together. Maybe something feels off, or you just don’t feel like yourself anymore. Through medication management, therapy, or both, we’ll help you understand what’s going on and start feeling better.
(203) 350-0329 View (203) 350-0329
Photo of Christopher Allen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Christopher Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Southport, CT 06890
I am a Yale trained board certified psychiatric clinical specialist nurse practitioner practicing in Southport Connecticut. My practice is small, intimate, individual and holistic. I provide a wide range of services from medication management to individual and couples therapy. As I am dually certified in adult medicine and psychiatry, I have an integrative approach to psychiatric and physical wellness. This includes nutritional and alternative medicine, labs and genetic testing. I have a humanistic approach to treating clients that is caring and compassionate. Please contact me directly at 203-858-2815 For appointme.
I am a Yale trained board certified psychiatric clinical specialist nurse practitioner practicing in Southport Connecticut. My practice is small, intimate, individual and holistic. I provide a wide range of services from medication management to individual and couples therapy. As I am dually certified in adult medicine and psychiatry, I have an integrative approach to psychiatric and physical wellness. This includes nutritional and alternative medicine, labs and genetic testing. I have a humanistic approach to treating clients that is caring and compassionate. Please contact me directly at 203-858-2815 For appointme.
(203) 838-1678 View (203) 838-1678
Photo of Andrew Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Andrew Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
I’m most passionate about making mental healthcare more approachable, especially for LGBTQ+ individuals and underserved communities who often face added barriers, stigma, or lack of access to care.
I've had meaningful experience working with patients struggling with substance use, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. These challenges often overlap and can show up as feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or not quite like yourself. I focus on helping patients understand what they're experiencing, such as differentiating intrusive thoughts from more severe conditions, which often reduces fear and improves engagement in treatment. I also work well with individuals who feel stuck in cycles of rumination, avoidance, or emotional dysregulation, helping them build insight and develop more effective ways to cope and function day to day.
I’m most passionate about making mental healthcare more approachable, especially for LGBTQ+ individuals and underserved communities who often face added barriers, stigma, or lack of access to care.
I've had meaningful experience working with patients struggling with substance use, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. These challenges often overlap and can show up as feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or not quite like yourself. I focus on helping patients understand what they're experiencing, such as differentiating intrusive thoughts from more severe conditions, which often reduces fear and improves engagement in treatment. I also work well with individuals who feel stuck in cycles of rumination, avoidance, or emotional dysregulation, helping them build insight and develop more effective ways to cope and function day to day.
(929) 594-5118 View (929) 594-5118
Photo of Deon Milardo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, APRN
Deon Milardo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, APRN
3 Endorsed
Middlefield, CT 06455
Meet Your Provider Deon S. Milardo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC Founder Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner At Healing Haven Psychiatry, we believe that mental health care should be compassionate, personalized, and rooted in genuine human connection. Founded by Deon S. Milardo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, Healing Haven Psychiatry was created with a simple mission: to provide a safe, supportive space where individuals feel heard, understood, and empowered on their journey toward healing and emotional wellness. Deon's path into healthcare was driven by a deep desire to help others navigate life's most challenging moments. Over the past
Meet Your Provider Deon S. Milardo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC Founder Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner At Healing Haven Psychiatry, we believe that mental health care should be compassionate, personalized, and rooted in genuine human connection. Founded by Deon S. Milardo, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, Healing Haven Psychiatry was created with a simple mission: to provide a safe, supportive space where individuals feel heard, understood, and empowered on their journey toward healing and emotional wellness. Deon's path into healthcare was driven by a deep desire to help others navigate life's most challenging moments. Over the past
(860) 406-5958 View (860) 406-5958
Photo of Lori Lang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Lori Lang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you feel distracted, disorganized, or like no matter how hard you try, you can’t stay on track? Many of our patients describe losing focus at school, struggling with deadlines at work, or feeling overwhelmed by daily responsibilities. ADHD often shows up alongside anxiety and depression, making life even more frustrating. At Solstice Healthcare, we offer comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment to help you feel more focused, motivated, and confident.
Do you feel distracted, disorganized, or like no matter how hard you try, you can’t stay on track? Many of our patients describe losing focus at school, struggling with deadlines at work, or feeling overwhelmed by daily responsibilities. ADHD often shows up alongside anxiety and depression, making life even more frustrating. At Solstice Healthcare, we offer comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment to help you feel more focused, motivated, and confident.
(475) 262-9657 View (475) 262-9657
Photo of Mellycar Valenton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Mellycar Valenton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Guilford, CT 06437
Evaluation and treatment for focus, motivation, and organization concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, overall functioning and depression in adolescents and adults. Most new patients are seen within 7–10 days, with treatment plans that may include medication and therapy. Many individuals struggle with starting tasks, staying organized, or following through despite strong effort. These challenges often affect school, work, and daily responsibilities. At Solstice Healthcare, we provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations to understand what’s contributing and develop a clear, effective plan forward.
Evaluation and treatment for focus, motivation, and organization concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, overall functioning and depression in adolescents and adults. Most new patients are seen within 7–10 days, with treatment plans that may include medication and therapy. Many individuals struggle with starting tasks, staying organized, or following through despite strong effort. These challenges often affect school, work, and daily responsibilities. At Solstice Healthcare, we provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations to understand what’s contributing and develop a clear, effective plan forward.
(959) 265-4524 View (959) 265-4524
Photo of Dr. Hamilton Gaiani, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Hamilton Gaiani
Psychiatrist, MD
Branford, CT 06405
Accepting new patients via telehealth or in-person. I am a Yale trained, Board-Certified Adult and Addiction Psychiatrist providing the highest quality of evidence-based care. I provide comprehensive treatment across the complete spectrum of mental illnesses. Treatment includes medication management and an optional therapy component. You may also request comprehensive evaluations, and if appropriate, medication assisted treatment (Suboxone). I have extensive knowledge of the latest research and am a strong advocate for the patients I work with.
Accepting new patients via telehealth or in-person. I am a Yale trained, Board-Certified Adult and Addiction Psychiatrist providing the highest quality of evidence-based care. I provide comprehensive treatment across the complete spectrum of mental illnesses. Treatment includes medication management and an optional therapy component. You may also request comprehensive evaluations, and if appropriate, medication assisted treatment (Suboxone). I have extensive knowledge of the latest research and am a strong advocate for the patients I work with.
(475) 263-3189 View (475) 263-3189
Photo of Dr. Patricia Hardy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, DNP
Dr. Patricia Hardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, DNP
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
I work with children, teens, women, and families, focusing on how behavioral changes (sometimes coupled with medication) can improve their psychological & physical well-being. When addressing the concerns of a child, I include the whole family system. I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner who has a special interest in working with adolescents and young adults. My practice focuses include emergency psychiatry, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
I work with children, teens, women, and families, focusing on how behavioral changes (sometimes coupled with medication) can improve their psychological & physical well-being. When addressing the concerns of a child, I include the whole family system. I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner who has a special interest in working with adolescents and young adults. My practice focuses include emergency psychiatry, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
(475) 897-5611 View (475) 897-5611
Photo of Hassan Naqvi, Psychiatrist, MD
Hassan Naqvi
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New Haven, CT 06511
- - - - - - - - - - Call now for a free consultation! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Appointments available this week! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Feeling overwhelmed, anxious or not yourself? You're not alone. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or more, your well-being is my top priority. As a board-certified psychiatrist, my focus is to support you on your journey towards improved mental health. Our work together won't be just about treating conditions, it will be about recognizing and understanding your unique life circumstances and the social issues that impact your mental health.
- - - - - - - - - - Call now for a free consultation! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Appointments available this week! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Feeling overwhelmed, anxious or not yourself? You're not alone. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or more, your well-being is my top priority. As a board-certified psychiatrist, my focus is to support you on your journey towards improved mental health. Our work together won't be just about treating conditions, it will be about recognizing and understanding your unique life circumstances and the social issues that impact your mental health.
(646) 437-8876 View (646) 437-8876
Photo of Abike Becroft, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Abike Becroft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Southington, CT 06489
Top specialties Anxiety, Depression, Maternal mental health More specialties Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA+, Stress management, Panic disorders, Cultural & ethnic issues, Grief or loss, Women's issues, Trauma, PTSD, Chronic conditions
Caring for clients with Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Postpartum anxiety and depression, mood disorders, stress disorders, PTSD. I believe in Holistic care approach, focusing on clients needs and also providing the safest and best care possible. I work to establish relationships with clients, set expectations and work on goals to help clients succeed.
Top specialties Anxiety, Depression, Maternal mental health More specialties Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA+, Stress management, Panic disorders, Cultural & ethnic issues, Grief or loss, Women's issues, Trauma, PTSD, Chronic conditions
Caring for clients with Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Postpartum anxiety and depression, mood disorders, stress disorders, PTSD. I believe in Holistic care approach, focusing on clients needs and also providing the safest and best care possible. I work to establish relationships with clients, set expectations and work on goals to help clients succeed.
(860) 935-6487 View (860) 935-6487
Photo of Susan Lachs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Susan Lachs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Weston, CT 06883
Your story and your struggles are unique to you. Media and family often put expectations on us that do not align with what is best for our authentic self. Family conflict, anxiety, depression, substance use, and unhealthy relationships - with ourselves and others - can be the result of these pressures. There is no one size fits all for therapy and together we will work to understand you through different perspectives and modalities, including prescribing medication if indicated, always with the goal of helping you make changes that will stick and you feel good about.
Your story and your struggles are unique to you. Media and family often put expectations on us that do not align with what is best for our authentic self. Family conflict, anxiety, depression, substance use, and unhealthy relationships - with ourselves and others - can be the result of these pressures. There is no one size fits all for therapy and together we will work to understand you through different perspectives and modalities, including prescribing medication if indicated, always with the goal of helping you make changes that will stick and you feel good about.
(475) 256-5374 View (475) 256-5374
Photo of Hong Kim - One Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
One Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
(860) 979-6396 View (860) 979-6396

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FAQ - LGBTQ+ Psychiatrists
What are the advantages of seeing an LGBTQ-friendly psychiatrist?
Psychiatrists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions using a combination of therapy and medication. Building a strong therapeutic relationship is essential for effective treatment. For many LGBTQ+ individuals, working with a psychiatrist who understands or shares aspects of their identity can be an important part of feeling safe, heard, and respected in care. Providers familiar with LGBTQ+ experiences may be better equipped to address minority stress, identity development, gender dysphoria, coming out processes, family rejection, discrimination, and other concerns that uniquely affect LGBTQ+ communities and can impact mental health treatment.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly psychiatrist?
Psychology Today’s online directory is a useful resource that allows you to filter for psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) based on their experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals. You can look for providers who identify as LGBTQ+ themselves or who mention LGBTQ+ affirming care in their profiles. Consider looking for key indicators such as use of inclusive language, experience with gender-affirming care, or a focus on trauma-informed and identity-centered approaches. It’s also important to consider practical details, such as whether the provider offers telehealth, their therapeutic style, and whether they accept your insurance.