Transgender Psychiatrists in Comal County, TX

Photo of Laura Craig, Psychiatrist, MD
Laura Craig
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Seeking mental health support can be intimidating, especially when it comes to mental health medicines. My focus is on a holistic approach including complementary and alternative approaches in combination with mental health medicine. I take a collaborative approach and we design a treatment plan together. I love working with all ages and genders. I specialize in trauma, anxiety and depression and am comfortable with high acuity. I also enjoy working with those who identify as neurodivergent. I offer: - Gender Affirming Surgery Evaluations - Evaluations for Those Seeking Asylum - Medication Management
Seeking mental health support can be intimidating, especially when it comes to mental health medicines. My focus is on a holistic approach including complementary and alternative approaches in combination with mental health medicine. I take a collaborative approach and we design a treatment plan together. I love working with all ages and genders. I specialize in trauma, anxiety and depression and am comfortable with high acuity. I also enjoy working with those who identify as neurodivergent. I offer: - Gender Affirming Surgery Evaluations - Evaluations for Those Seeking Asylum - Medication Management
(830) 580-3964 View (830) 580-3964
Photo of Satang Ann - Inner Self Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Inner Self Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting NEW Clients TODAY. No WAIT List. Same Day Appointments Available. AFTER Hours and Weekend Appointments Available. Currently in-network with BCBS, UHC/Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, Tricare, and Medicare in Texas. Private Pay rates made affordable. I value meeting my clients where they are WITHOUT making them feel judged. During our initial session, we will talk about what led you to me, and at the end of the session, we will come up with a treatment plan that best suits your needs. The goal is to develop the best therapeutic relationship possible to ease any stress related to having appointments.
Accepting NEW Clients TODAY. No WAIT List. Same Day Appointments Available. AFTER Hours and Weekend Appointments Available. Currently in-network with BCBS, UHC/Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, Tricare, and Medicare in Texas. Private Pay rates made affordable. I value meeting my clients where they are WITHOUT making them feel judged. During our initial session, we will talk about what led you to me, and at the end of the session, we will come up with a treatment plan that best suits your needs. The goal is to develop the best therapeutic relationship possible to ease any stress related to having appointments.
(817) 663-1202 View (817) 663-1202
Photo of Dee Swart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, APRN
Dee Swart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78132
As a Veteran, I acknowledge the Warrior ethos that exists in all humans, especially when it comes to mental health and wellness. i am here to work with you, as a team, to achieve the goals that you aspire for yourself. It can range from not being 'that' person anymore to improving my relationships with loved ones. I am also here to help kids and teens be the best version of themselves, however they identify. We can achieve these things better, together.
As a Veteran, I acknowledge the Warrior ethos that exists in all humans, especially when it comes to mental health and wellness. i am here to work with you, as a team, to achieve the goals that you aspire for yourself. It can range from not being 'that' person anymore to improving my relationships with loved ones. I am also here to help kids and teens be the best version of themselves, however they identify. We can achieve these things better, together.
(830) 476-7388 View (830) 476-7388
Photo of Karen Mitchell - Advanced Child & Adult Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Advanced Child & Adult Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Advanced Child & Adult Psychiatric Services provides expert psychiatric evaluations, medication management, & psychosocial counseling for children, adults, & their families. Our ability to provide high-quality, compassionate, affordable psychiatric care in a timely manner is one of our greatest strengths. Most appointments can be scheduled within one week of contacting us. Given today's concerns related to COVID-19, telepsychiatry visits are offered.
Advanced Child & Adult Psychiatric Services provides expert psychiatric evaluations, medication management, & psychosocial counseling for children, adults, & their families. Our ability to provide high-quality, compassionate, affordable psychiatric care in a timely manner is one of our greatest strengths. Most appointments can be scheduled within one week of contacting us. Given today's concerns related to COVID-19, telepsychiatry visits are offered.
(833) 761-0510 View (833) 761-0510
Photo of Dr. Kelly Golliher Richardson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, GNP
Dr. Kelly Golliher Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, GNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Have you been struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, loss of interest, hopelessness, excessive guilt, grief, PTSD, attention/focus issues, or does stress have you tied up in knots? I am Dr. Kelly, Golliher Richardson, our office is offering same week psychiatric evaluation. We take most major insurances and also offer a reasonable private pay option.
Have you been struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, loss of interest, hopelessness, excessive guilt, grief, PTSD, attention/focus issues, or does stress have you tied up in knots? I am Dr. Kelly, Golliher Richardson, our office is offering same week psychiatric evaluation. We take most major insurances and also offer a reasonable private pay option.
(505) 658-0854 View (505) 658-0854
Photo of Eric D. Seilhamer Jr., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Eric D. Seilhamer Jr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, nice to meet you! I am Eric Seilhamer, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for promoting the emotional and psychological well-being of children and adolescents. I received my Doctor of Nursing practice along with my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Texas Christian University in 2023. With a background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring over 11 years of experience to my practice. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to empower young minds and guide them towards a path of resilience.
Hello, nice to meet you! I am Eric Seilhamer, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for promoting the emotional and psychological well-being of children and adolescents. I received my Doctor of Nursing practice along with my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Texas Christian University in 2023. With a background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring over 11 years of experience to my practice. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to empower young minds and guide them towards a path of resilience.
(210) 468-7099 View (210) 468-7099

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Jennifer Brock-Garcia, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, APRN
Jennifer Brock-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The issues particular to transgender and non-binary persons specifically, and all sexual minorities in general have been a special focus of my education and practice.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, up-to-date mental health care to my clients. This can range from prescribing medication, providing information about how to improve sleep or nutrition, or simply helping clients to understand how mental health issues happen, how they can affect our lives, and what options for treatment exist. Trauma, anxiety and depression (unipolar or bipolar) and hormonal issues (PMDD, menopause) are areas of specialty for me, as I have had significant experience treating these issues. Currently, I can see clients age 17 and over.
The issues particular to transgender and non-binary persons specifically, and all sexual minorities in general have been a special focus of my education and practice.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate, up-to-date mental health care to my clients. This can range from prescribing medication, providing information about how to improve sleep or nutrition, or simply helping clients to understand how mental health issues happen, how they can affect our lives, and what options for treatment exist. Trauma, anxiety and depression (unipolar or bipolar) and hormonal issues (PMDD, menopause) are areas of specialty for me, as I have had significant experience treating these issues. Currently, I can see clients age 17 and over.
(512) 359-3575 View (512) 359-3575
Photo of Juliet Gatobu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Juliet Gatobu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in managing a wide range of conditions, from mental health disorders such as anxiety, sleep disorders , depression, ADHD, IDD/Autism and gender dysphoria.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals seeking support and healing. My practice is rooted in the belief that mental wellness is achieved through a holistic approach, addressing the mind, body, and spirit.
I specialize in managing a wide range of conditions, from mental health disorders such as anxiety, sleep disorders , depression, ADHD, IDD/Autism and gender dysphoria.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals seeking support and healing. My practice is rooted in the belief that mental wellness is achieved through a holistic approach, addressing the mind, body, and spirit.
(726) 237-4668 View (726) 237-4668
Photo of Charlotte Coates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or significant life transitions can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time seeking mental health support. I’m Charlotte Coates, a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing compassionate, holistic care. My journey began with a psychology degree from Columbia University, which inspired my passion for direct patient care. I later earned a master’s in psychiatric nursing from NYU, specializing in substance use disorders. I strive to normalize mental health struggles and provide a safe, welcoming space to explore your concerns and achieve balance and well-being.
(830) 251-5906 View (830) 251-5906
Photo of Smink Achila, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming. I'm Smink Achila, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years of experience helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry stems from a desire to make a difference in a field often stigmatized and misunderstood. I believe in meeting you where you are, and providing a nonjudgmental and empathetic space where you can openly share your experiences. Together, we'll work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming. I'm Smink Achila, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 16 years of experience helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry stems from a desire to make a difference in a field often stigmatized and misunderstood. I believe in meeting you where you are, and providing a nonjudgmental and empathetic space where you can openly share your experiences. Together, we'll work collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.
(512) 488-6417 View (512) 488-6417
Photo of Dr. Charmi Balsara, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Charmi Balsara
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78244
Anxiety, Depression, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), Medication Management, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Burnout, Sleep, Insomnia, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum (including postpartum depression), Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Infidelity, Divorce, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Coping Skills, Women’s Issues, Family Issues, Peer Relationships, Life Transitions, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Mood Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Life Coaching, Behavioral Issues, Grief, Psychosis, Thinking Disorders.
Anxiety, Depression, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), Medication Management, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Burnout, Sleep, Insomnia, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum (including postpartum depression), Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Infidelity, Divorce, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Coping Skills, Women’s Issues, Family Issues, Peer Relationships, Life Transitions, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Mood Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Life Coaching, Behavioral Issues, Grief, Psychosis, Thinking Disorders.
(281) 317-8802 View (281) 317-8802
Photo of Lindsey Anderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lindsey Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
(726) 238-4631 View (726) 238-4631
Photo of Oladunni Liyele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Oladunni Liyele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. As a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly five years of experience, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where your story takes center stage. My journey began as a registered nurse in diverse settings, including neuro ICU and psychiatry, where I saw the deep impact of mental health and the barriers to care. I’m here to help uncover root causes, foster healing, and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
Facing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. As a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly five years of experience, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where your story takes center stage. My journey began as a registered nurse in diverse settings, including neuro ICU and psychiatry, where I saw the deep impact of mental health and the barriers to care. I’m here to help uncover root causes, foster healing, and empower you to achieve lasting well-being.
(254) 687-4236 View (254) 687-4236
Photo of Sabah Choudry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.
Facing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or OCD can feel overwhelming. I'm Sabah Choudry, a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. My experience ranges from working with college students to adults of all ages, and I believe that every person has a unique story. I take a holistic approach to care, focusing on you as a whole rather than just a set of symptoms. Together, we'll create a comfortable environment where you feel heard, allowing us to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs.
(254) 332-3801 View (254) 332-3801
Photo of Dr. Charmi Balsara, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Charmi Balsara
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78239
Anxiety, Depression, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), Medication Management, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Burnout, Sleep, Insomnia, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum (including postpartum depression), Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Infidelity, Divorce, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Coping Skills, Women’s Issues, Family Issues, Peer Relationships, Life Transitions, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Mood Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Life Coaching, Behavioral Issues, Grief, Psychosis, Thinking Disorders.
Anxiety, Depression, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), Medication Management, Bipolar Disorder, Stress, Burnout, Sleep, Insomnia, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum (including postpartum depression), Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Infidelity, Divorce, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Coping Skills, Women’s Issues, Family Issues, Peer Relationships, Life Transitions, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Mood Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Life Coaching, Behavioral Issues, Grief, Psychosis, Thinking Disorders.
(346) 771-8224 View (346) 771-8224
Photo of Tajuana Shuler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Tajuana Shuler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Life can feel overwhelming when you're managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD. I’m Tajuana Shuler, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years of military experience, where I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges. Inspired by these experiences, I became a mental health provider dedicated to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan focused on addressing the root causes of your challenges—not just managing symptoms. My goal is to help you navigate obstacles and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(737) 232-6885 View (737) 232-6885
Photo of Naomi Nyabuto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Naomi Nyabuto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
Struggling with your mental health can feel isolating, but the right support changes everything. I'm Lindsey Anderson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare and a deep passion for helping people regain control of their lives. I take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach, integrating medication management with practical strategies to help you feel better. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, I listen, adapt, and collaborate to find solutions that work. Your journey to healing starts here—let’s take that first step together.
(737) 373-2734 View (737) 373-2734
Photo of Bettina Cordova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Bettina Cordova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but compassionate, personalized care makes all the difference. I'm Bettina Cordova, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background as a pediatrician and years of experience in psychiatry. I approach every patient with warmth, treating them like family. My care plans blend evidence-based medication management with functional and integrative psychiatry, incorporating nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes to promote real, lasting change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I’m here to help you feel better—starting today.
(361) 273-4119 View (361) 273-4119
Photo of Dayna Kinney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Dayna Kinney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
(737) 321-5377 View (737) 321-5377
Photo of Shazar Khan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m Shazar Khan, a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in community mental health and extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse. Growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized inspired me to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard. My approach focuses on understanding you as a whole person, beyond any diagnosis. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your challenges and work toward healing, growth, and lasting well-being.
(254) 271-1134 View (254) 271-1134

See more therapy options for Comal County

Transgender Psychiatrists

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 recognize 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 recognize 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.