Transgender Psychiatrists in Comal County, TX

Photo of Satang Ann - Inner Self Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Inner Self Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Accepting NEW Clients TODAY. No WAIT List. Same-Day Appointments Available. After-hours AND Weekend Appointments are available. Currently in-network with BCBS, UHC/Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, and Tricare 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 are available. Currently in-network with BCBS, UHC/Optum, CIGNA, Aetna, and Tricare 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 Dr. Charmi Balsara, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Charmi Balsara
Psychiatrist, MD
New Braunfels, TX 78130
ADD/ ADHD, 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.
ADD/ ADHD, 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) 247-8522 View (281) 247-8522
Photo of Dr. Charmi Balsara, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Charmi Balsara
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
ADD/ ADHD, 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.
ADD/ ADHD, 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.
(737) 234-2482 View (737) 234-2482
Photo of Dr. Charmi Balsara, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Charmi Balsara
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
ADD/ ADHD, 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.
ADD/ ADHD, 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) 238-5365 View (281) 238-5365
Photo of Dr. Charmi Balsara, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Charmi Balsara
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
ADD/ ADHD, 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.
ADD/ ADHD, 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 Dr. Charmi Balsara, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Charmi Balsara
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
ADD/ ADHD, 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.
ADD/ ADHD, 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) 377-9449 View (281) 377-9449
Photo of Dee Swart, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, APRN
Dee Swart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, APRN
4 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 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 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 Laura Craig, Psychiatrist, MD
Laura Craig
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Laura Craig, MD Betula Mental Health LGBTQ+ Psychiatrist, Illinois and Texas Telehealth At Betula Mental Health, I provide affirming, trauma-informed psychiatric care for adolescents and adults seeking support with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and serious mental illness with a focus on LGBTQ+ communities. I offer a thoughtful blend of evidence based medication management with complementary and alternative approaches, including mindfulness, nutrition focused support, and psychodynamic understanding. I’ll work collaboratively with you to create a care plan that honors your identity.
Laura Craig, MD Betula Mental Health LGBTQ+ Psychiatrist, Illinois and Texas Telehealth At Betula Mental Health, I provide affirming, trauma-informed psychiatric care for adolescents and adults seeking support with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and serious mental illness with a focus on LGBTQ+ communities. I offer a thoughtful blend of evidence based medication management with complementary and alternative approaches, including mindfulness, nutrition focused support, and psychodynamic understanding. I’ll work collaboratively with you to create a care plan that honors your identity.
(830) 580-3964 View (830) 580-3964
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
1 Endorsed
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
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
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
Photo of Arif Noorbaksh, Psychiatrist, MD
Arif Noorbaksh
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I strive to meet you where you are on your journey—no two people are the same. I specialize in treating individuals who have hard-to-treat mood disorders and haven’t found relief from traditional treatments. If you’ve been frustrated by rushed evaluations or medications that don’t work, I offer a personalized, in-depth approach. We’ll develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes your preferences, lived experience, and current symptoms. Whether through medication, psychotherapy, interventional treatments, or holistic approaches, I’m committed to helping you find real relief and renewed hope for your well-being.
I strive to meet you where you are on your journey—no two people are the same. I specialize in treating individuals who have hard-to-treat mood disorders and haven’t found relief from traditional treatments. If you’ve been frustrated by rushed evaluations or medications that don’t work, I offer a personalized, in-depth approach. We’ll develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes your preferences, lived experience, and current symptoms. Whether through medication, psychotherapy, interventional treatments, or holistic approaches, I’m committed to helping you find real relief and renewed hope for your well-being.
(726) 213-3319 View (726) 213-3319

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Paige Bennett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Paige Bennett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Austin, TX 78729
You deserve mental health care that sees all of you, not just a diagnosis. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who works with adults in their 20s, 30s, and beyond living with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and complex mood or thought related concerns. Trained at Ohio State and Vanderbilt, I bring experience from hospital dual diagnosis work and a high volume private practice. In sessions I slow things down, get to know what you enjoy and hope for, and partner with you to build a plan that fits real life.
You deserve mental health care that sees all of you, not just a diagnosis. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who works with adults in their 20s, 30s, and beyond living with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and complex mood or thought related concerns. Trained at Ohio State and Vanderbilt, I bring experience from hospital dual diagnosis work and a high volume private practice. In sessions I slow things down, get to know what you enjoy and hope for, and partner with you to build a plan that fits real life.
(737) 747-7644 View (737) 747-7644
Photo of Ifeoma Ochei, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Ifeoma Ochei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
You may be feeling worn out from trying to hold everything together on your own. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former family nurse practitioner who cares for adults living with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma related stress, ADHD, and mood changes. My style is collaborative and affirming for LGBTQ+ adults and all identities. I listen closely, explain what is happening in your brain and body, and walk beside you as we choose next steps that feel clear, realistic, and truly yours.
You may be feeling worn out from trying to hold everything together on your own. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and former family nurse practitioner who cares for adults living with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma related stress, ADHD, and mood changes. My style is collaborative and affirming for LGBTQ+ adults and all identities. I listen closely, explain what is happening in your brain and body, and walk beside you as we choose next steps that feel clear, realistic, and truly yours.
(737) 637-5338 View (737) 637-5338
Photo of Erin Haytaian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Erin Haytaian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
What would life feel like with steadier days, clearer focus, and care that truly listens? I work with people facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, the effects of trauma, and ADHD. My approach is empathic, evidence based, and centered on your voice. Together we will map what is hard, clarify options in plain language, and choose a plan that respects your story and goals. I care deeply about access for vulnerable communities and offer a nonjudgmental space where you can be an active partner in your mental health. I welcome LGBTQ+ clients and meet you with compassion, skill, and steady follow up.
What would life feel like with steadier days, clearer focus, and care that truly listens? I work with people facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, the effects of trauma, and ADHD. My approach is empathic, evidence based, and centered on your voice. Together we will map what is hard, clarify options in plain language, and choose a plan that respects your story and goals. I care deeply about access for vulnerable communities and offer a nonjudgmental space where you can be an active partner in your mental health. I welcome LGBTQ+ clients and meet you with compassion, skill, and steady follow up.
(737) 387-1119 View (737) 387-1119
Photo of Marlisha Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Marlisha Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Care that feels clear, kind, and effective. I became a registered nurse at nineteen and have spent more than a decade helping people feel like themselves again. I later completed my nurse practitioner training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2019 and dove deep into psychiatry. Sessions with me are calm and collaborative. I listen closely, explain every option in plain language, and build a plan that fits real life. We use medications thoughtfully when they are truly needed and pair them with practical skills and supportive therapy so progress actually lasts.
Care that feels clear, kind, and effective. I became a registered nurse at nineteen and have spent more than a decade helping people feel like themselves again. I later completed my nurse practitioner training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2019 and dove deep into psychiatry. Sessions with me are calm and collaborative. I listen closely, explain every option in plain language, and build a plan that fits real life. We use medications thoughtfully when they are truly needed and pair them with practical skills and supportive therapy so progress actually lasts.
(737) 345-3163 View (737) 345-3163
Photo of Funmilayo Akinrimisi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Funmilayo Akinrimisi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Seventeen years in nursing and six in psychiatry have shaped how I care: calm, collaborative, and focused on helping you function and feel like yourself. I earned my MSN at Walden University in 2018 and am completing my doctorate in nursing at Northern Kentucky University. I blend evidence based medicine with genuine empathy and a nonjudgmental style. You will be listened to, educated, and included so every step fits your values and routine. Care may include practical skills, supportive therapy, and medication only when it is truly needed. My goal is stability, confidence, and a clear path forward.
Seventeen years in nursing and six in psychiatry have shaped how I care: calm, collaborative, and focused on helping you function and feel like yourself. I earned my MSN at Walden University in 2018 and am completing my doctorate in nursing at Northern Kentucky University. I blend evidence based medicine with genuine empathy and a nonjudgmental style. You will be listened to, educated, and included so every step fits your values and routine. Care may include practical skills, supportive therapy, and medication only when it is truly needed. My goal is stability, confidence, and a clear path forward.
(512) 722-7255 View (512) 722-7255
Photo of Tolulope Rowland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Tolulope Rowland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Care should feel personal, thorough, and grounded in real understanding. I am a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been caring for adults since 2011, with a focus on depression, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia. My style is holistic and collaborative: we look at your symptoms, health history, stressors, and strengths, then decide together which steps make sense. Patients often tell me they feel truly heard because I listen closely, ask questions, and follow through on what we discuss.
Care should feel personal, thorough, and grounded in real understanding. I am a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been caring for adults since 2011, with a focus on depression, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia. My style is holistic and collaborative: we look at your symptoms, health history, stressors, and strengths, then decide together which steps make sense. Patients often tell me they feel truly heard because I listen closely, ask questions, and follow through on what we discuss.
(737) 234-7828 View (737) 234-7828
Photo of Olubunkanla Kayode, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Olubunkanla Kayode
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
You do not have to carry anxiety, depression, ADHD symptoms, bipolar mood swings, or trauma alone. I am a dual certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly two decades of experience, including work in outpatient and higher acuity settings. I care for adults living with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and complex trauma, and I provide LGBTQ+ affirming care. My style is thoughtful and unhurried. By listening closely and using motivational interviewing, we can understand the full picture before we choose a plan that truly fits you.
You do not have to carry anxiety, depression, ADHD symptoms, bipolar mood swings, or trauma alone. I am a dual certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with nearly two decades of experience, including work in outpatient and higher acuity settings. I care for adults living with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and complex trauma, and I provide LGBTQ+ affirming care. My style is thoughtful and unhurried. By listening closely and using motivational interviewing, we can understand the full picture before we choose a plan that truly fits you.
(737) 307-1885 View (737) 307-1885
Photo of Arthur Freyre, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Arthur Freyre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Care that blends deep therapy skill with precise medication use. As a bilingual psychiatric nurse practitioner and licensed professional counselor supervisor, I bring sixteen years of counseling experience to every visit. We will talk honestly, laugh when it helps, and create a plan that matches your values and pace. I explain options clearly so you choose what fits, using medication thoughtfully alongside practical skills that produce real progress. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or the weight of trauma, you will feel heard and leave with a plan that makes sense.
Care that blends deep therapy skill with precise medication use. As a bilingual psychiatric nurse practitioner and licensed professional counselor supervisor, I bring sixteen years of counseling experience to every visit. We will talk honestly, laugh when it helps, and create a plan that matches your values and pace. I explain options clearly so you choose what fits, using medication thoughtfully alongside practical skills that produce real progress. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or the weight of trauma, you will feel heard and leave with a plan that makes sense.
(737) 206-5249 View (737) 206-5249

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.