Photo of undefined - LGBTQ+ Therapy - Pride Month Special - $40/session, LMHC, MHC, Counselor
LGBTQ+ Therapy - Pride Month Special - $40/session
Counselor, LMHC, MHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Expansive Therapy is a 100% LGBTQ+ owned and focused therapy practice. We wanted to go beyond checking a box for queer affirming therapy to creating a practice that was committed to the community, where queer people could bring their whole selves into therapy. Queer theory asks that we look at the world in a new way, not through a heteronormative lens, but from each individual perspective which is unique and perfect. We are passionate about understanding the unique challenges of our community and helping our queer clients to heal.
Expansive Therapy is a 100% LGBTQ+ owned and focused therapy practice. We wanted to go beyond checking a box for queer affirming therapy to creating a practice that was committed to the community, where queer people could bring their whole selves into therapy. Queer theory asks that we look at the world in a new way, not through a heteronormative lens, but from each individual perspective which is unique and perfect. We are passionate about understanding the unique challenges of our community and helping our queer clients to heal.
(646) 466-5695 View (646) 466-5695
Photo of Brittney Schwab, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittney Schwab
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I'm a seasoned clinician with deep respect and empathy for the experience of others. For over fourteen years, I've practiced psychotherapy in various schools, clinics and hospitals throughout NYC. My practice honors intersectional identities, and I’ve worked especially close with individuals from LGB, Queer, Trans/NB/GNC, Black and Latinx communities. I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders, grief, trauma, ADHD, and family conflict. My lived experience complements my professional experience, making me uniquely qualified to provide the empathic, trauma-informed care you are seeking.
I'm a seasoned clinician with deep respect and empathy for the experience of others. For over fourteen years, I've practiced psychotherapy in various schools, clinics and hospitals throughout NYC. My practice honors intersectional identities, and I’ve worked especially close with individuals from LGB, Queer, Trans/NB/GNC, Black and Latinx communities. I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders, grief, trauma, ADHD, and family conflict. My lived experience complements my professional experience, making me uniquely qualified to provide the empathic, trauma-informed care you are seeking.
(914) 219-6407 View (914) 219-6407
Photo of Kelda Nelson, LCAT, Art Therapist
Kelda Nelson
Art Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Are you an artist in spirit? Do you identify as a creative, if not within practice within your dreams? If this resonates you are most likely someone who emotes beyond words and or speaks in metaphors. My therapeutic approach is creatively oriented within both verbal and the expressive arts. My practice assists in you accepting your true self, within live analytic, psychodynamic growth. I am relational, attentive, engaging and goal oriented. I want you to experience desired changes and growth overtime that we work towards collaboratively for ideally a year or more. I specialize within the LGBTQ community although treat all folk.
Are you an artist in spirit? Do you identify as a creative, if not within practice within your dreams? If this resonates you are most likely someone who emotes beyond words and or speaks in metaphors. My therapeutic approach is creatively oriented within both verbal and the expressive arts. My practice assists in you accepting your true self, within live analytic, psychodynamic growth. I am relational, attentive, engaging and goal oriented. I want you to experience desired changes and growth overtime that we work towards collaboratively for ideally a year or more. I specialize within the LGBTQ community although treat all folk.
(646) 849-7014 View (646) 849-7014
Photo of Alison A. Proft, LP, NCPsyA, MS, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Alison A. Proft
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LP, NCPsyA, MS
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Tired of scrolling through profiles looking for an LGBTQ therapist who understands you? Look no further! I help adults that identify as LGBTQ who are struggling with the challenges of coming out, relationships, transitioning, and phase-of-life issues. Using psychoanalysis and free association, we'll identify the root cause of the fears and behaviors that are disrupting your life and develop strategies to heal and nourish your authentic self. Through our work, you'll experience the joy of self-love and get busy living your best life.
Tired of scrolling through profiles looking for an LGBTQ therapist who understands you? Look no further! I help adults that identify as LGBTQ who are struggling with the challenges of coming out, relationships, transitioning, and phase-of-life issues. Using psychoanalysis and free association, we'll identify the root cause of the fears and behaviors that are disrupting your life and develop strategies to heal and nourish your authentic self. Through our work, you'll experience the joy of self-love and get busy living your best life.
(914) 228-7350 View (914) 228-7350
Photo of Ilona Margiotta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ilona Margiotta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I have extensive experience working with lesbian, queer-identified, transgender and gender expansive folks, individuals living with HIV/AIDS, and those exploring their relationship to sexuality, kink, and gender.
With each of my clients, I cultivate a compassionate, non-judgmental, and supportive environment. I believe that the therapeutic relationship provides a safe space for identity exploration, so that you can more fully embody your truth in your day-to-day life. While a sense of progress is integral to the therapeutic journey, we will create a personalized understanding of what growth looks like for you, rather than settling for more prescriptive goals. As a relational therapist, I help people foster deeper understanding and self-awareness, overcome unhelpful and defeating patterns, and build self-esteem.
I have extensive experience working with lesbian, queer-identified, transgender and gender expansive folks, individuals living with HIV/AIDS, and those exploring their relationship to sexuality, kink, and gender.
With each of my clients, I cultivate a compassionate, non-judgmental, and supportive environment. I believe that the therapeutic relationship provides a safe space for identity exploration, so that you can more fully embody your truth in your day-to-day life. While a sense of progress is integral to the therapeutic journey, we will create a personalized understanding of what growth looks like for you, rather than settling for more prescriptive goals. As a relational therapist, I help people foster deeper understanding and self-awareness, overcome unhelpful and defeating patterns, and build self-esteem.
(914) 819-5608 View (914) 819-5608
Photo of Celeste Pietrusza, PhD, Psychologist
Celeste Pietrusza
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I welcome folx from the LGBTQIA+ as well as BDSM/kink and ENM communities in my practice.
Life presents many challenges and struggles and sometimes, it may feel, too little time to voice complex emotions. Yet, an exploration of the nuances of one’s history, relationships, dreams, and desires can help alleviate suffering and increase flexibility in the present moment. Therapy, I believe, can provide this space to become, to play, feel, speak. My integrative approach holds space for family of origin, intergenerational, intersectional and broader social-cultural dynamics.
I welcome folx from the LGBTQIA+ as well as BDSM/kink and ENM communities in my practice.
Life presents many challenges and struggles and sometimes, it may feel, too little time to voice complex emotions. Yet, an exploration of the nuances of one’s history, relationships, dreams, and desires can help alleviate suffering and increase flexibility in the present moment. Therapy, I believe, can provide this space to become, to play, feel, speak. My integrative approach holds space for family of origin, intergenerational, intersectional and broader social-cultural dynamics.
(646) 969-3475 View (646) 969-3475
Photo of Paulina Agrawal, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Paulina Agrawal
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Each of us is deserving of joy and peace, and I am here to help you claim yours. In therapy, we will collaboratively explore the barriers that stand between you and your most authentic self so that you may live fully and enjoy who you truly are. I treat individuals and couples with a variety of issues related to body trust/kindness, trauma, LGBTQIA+-specific issues, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, and more. My approach is collaborative and kind in nature with mindfulness, DBT, and Internal Family Systems incorporated as needed. Body respect, trust, and the principles of Health at Every Size are foundational to my approach.
Each of us is deserving of joy and peace, and I am here to help you claim yours. In therapy, we will collaboratively explore the barriers that stand between you and your most authentic self so that you may live fully and enjoy who you truly are. I treat individuals and couples with a variety of issues related to body trust/kindness, trauma, LGBTQIA+-specific issues, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, and more. My approach is collaborative and kind in nature with mindfulness, DBT, and Internal Family Systems incorporated as needed. Body respect, trust, and the principles of Health at Every Size are foundational to my approach.
(718) 395-5958 View (718) 395-5958
Photo of Shanzy Carter-Martinez, LMHC, Counselor
Shanzy Carter-Martinez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating LGBTQIA+ folx, providing identity affirming care, and work with polyamorous relationships.
Welcome! Healing is a process that is unique to each of us. I bring an eclectic approach to therapy in order to help you find the healing path that best fits you and your needs. As a therapist, I believe that the therapeutic relationship is critical to assisting you in being able to create the life you most want. You will find a non-judgmental safe space in which you are welcome as the person you are and the person you hope to be.
I specialize in treating LGBTQIA+ folx, providing identity affirming care, and work with polyamorous relationships.
Welcome! Healing is a process that is unique to each of us. I bring an eclectic approach to therapy in order to help you find the healing path that best fits you and your needs. As a therapist, I believe that the therapeutic relationship is critical to assisting you in being able to create the life you most want. You will find a non-judgmental safe space in which you are welcome as the person you are and the person you hope to be.
(929) 416-6913 View (929) 416-6913
Photo of Rachel Beck, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Beck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I enjoy a diverse practice and often work with the LGBTQ+ community, women and new parents.
The people I work with are often experiencing some type of psychic pain and want to alleviate that. They may come in because of difficulties with partners, family, friends, issues with their job, body image, disordered eating, or self esteem concerns. Possibly, they are having intra-psychic conflicts like anxiety and depression. I help people relieve these symptoms while using therapy to bring joy and satisfaction in client’s relationships, work, and self-regard-- simultaneously helping them grow to their most fully realized selves.
I enjoy a diverse practice and often work with the LGBTQ+ community, women and new parents.
The people I work with are often experiencing some type of psychic pain and want to alleviate that. They may come in because of difficulties with partners, family, friends, issues with their job, body image, disordered eating, or self esteem concerns. Possibly, they are having intra-psychic conflicts like anxiety and depression. I help people relieve these symptoms while using therapy to bring joy and satisfaction in client’s relationships, work, and self-regard-- simultaneously helping them grow to their most fully realized selves.
(646) 863-7931 View (646) 863-7931
Photo of Acacia Palmer, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Acacia Palmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
In my 9 years of practice, I have worked with adult BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ folks with a specialty in borderline personality disorder, sexual trauma, and chronic illness.
Taking the first steps towards healing can be difficult as it involves discovering who you are beneath all the layers that comprise your identity. If you have experienced chronic childhood trauma, poverty, racism, or any form of discrimination or injustice based on your identity, this can harm how you view yourself, how you interact with others, and how you view the world. These negative experiences can become disruptive to the type of life you may aspire for yourself. I want you to know that it is possible to heal these wounds and become someone you will feel proud of.
In my 9 years of practice, I have worked with adult BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ folks with a specialty in borderline personality disorder, sexual trauma, and chronic illness.
Taking the first steps towards healing can be difficult as it involves discovering who you are beneath all the layers that comprise your identity. If you have experienced chronic childhood trauma, poverty, racism, or any form of discrimination or injustice based on your identity, this can harm how you view yourself, how you interact with others, and how you view the world. These negative experiences can become disruptive to the type of life you may aspire for yourself. I want you to know that it is possible to heal these wounds and become someone you will feel proud of.
(929) 456-5583 View (929) 456-5583
Photo of Menemsha Thompson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Menemsha Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I work with people who are struggling to form safe and loving relationships. I support them in building secure bonds by focusing on communication and self-esteem and by helping them explore past formative relationships. I have worked with diverse populations, such as survivors of intimate partner violence and youth impacted by parental incarceration. I now work closely with LGBTQIA+ young adults and feel particularly well suited to help people in this community navigate relationship issues, the stress of coming out, and more.
I work with people who are struggling to form safe and loving relationships. I support them in building secure bonds by focusing on communication and self-esteem and by helping them explore past formative relationships. I have worked with diverse populations, such as survivors of intimate partner violence and youth impacted by parental incarceration. I now work closely with LGBTQIA+ young adults and feel particularly well suited to help people in this community navigate relationship issues, the stress of coming out, and more.
(315) 889-1703 View (315) 889-1703
Photo of Monica Bilboul, PhD, Psychologist
Monica Bilboul
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
LGBT issues are another specialty.
I incorporate a "team" approach in which patient and therapist actively engage in treatment. A professional, warm, and genuine type atmosphere is provided with the goal of maintaining a healthy lifestyle with enhanced coping skills. A cognitive behavioral approach is emphasized, which is problem-focused and direct. Problematic belief systems and behaviors, which are negatively impacting emotional well-being, are targeted.
LGBT issues are another specialty.
I incorporate a "team" approach in which patient and therapist actively engage in treatment. A professional, warm, and genuine type atmosphere is provided with the goal of maintaining a healthy lifestyle with enhanced coping skills. A cognitive behavioral approach is emphasized, which is problem-focused and direct. Problematic belief systems and behaviors, which are negatively impacting emotional well-being, are targeted.
(917) 243-9106 View (917) 243-9106
Photo of Brooke Greene, PhD, Psychologist
Brooke Greene
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I find therapy to be a valuable space for reflection, connection, and growth and embrace the opportunity to construct such a space with my clients. I bring a warm, empathetic presence and a desire to understand my clients deeply as we work together towards the change they desire in their lives. I enjoy working with clients on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, sexual assault/abuse, substance use concerns, traumatic and concerns related to navigating identities of all types. Offering an environment that is affirming to LGBTQ+ clients is particularly important to me.
I find therapy to be a valuable space for reflection, connection, and growth and embrace the opportunity to construct such a space with my clients. I bring a warm, empathetic presence and a desire to understand my clients deeply as we work together towards the change they desire in their lives. I enjoy working with clients on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, sexual assault/abuse, substance use concerns, traumatic and concerns related to navigating identities of all types. Offering an environment that is affirming to LGBTQ+ clients is particularly important to me.
(646) 681-1720 View (646) 681-1720
Photo of Alexandra Robbins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Robbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I have extensive experience providing psychotherapy to various adult populations, including those with severe mental illnesses, those working through substance misuse, compulsive behaviors, concerns about eating and body image, people from the LGBTQ+ community, as well as undergraduate/graduate students with a variety of presenting concerns.
I see the therapeutic process as a collaborative journey, whereby we have the opportunity to heal and create lasting change in our perspectives and behaviors. We all develop patterns and ways of coping with life that may have served us at one point in time and may no longer be beneficial to us today. It’s common to find ourselves stuck in familiar thought-loops or relationship dynamics that are no longer working in our favor. Through uncovering the origin of these themes, we can build compassion for ourselves, which helps set the foundation for meaningful change.
I have extensive experience providing psychotherapy to various adult populations, including those with severe mental illnesses, those working through substance misuse, compulsive behaviors, concerns about eating and body image, people from the LGBTQ+ community, as well as undergraduate/graduate students with a variety of presenting concerns.
I see the therapeutic process as a collaborative journey, whereby we have the opportunity to heal and create lasting change in our perspectives and behaviors. We all develop patterns and ways of coping with life that may have served us at one point in time and may no longer be beneficial to us today. It’s common to find ourselves stuck in familiar thought-loops or relationship dynamics that are no longer working in our favor. Through uncovering the origin of these themes, we can build compassion for ourselves, which helps set the foundation for meaningful change.
(646) 553-3391 View (646) 553-3391
Photo of Natasha Walker-O'Brien, LMHC, CASAC, Counselor
Natasha Walker-O'Brien
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Earning my master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from New York University, I am a compassionate, empathetic and culturally competent therapist with extensive knowledge in addiction disorders, eating disorders, anxiety disorders and LGBTQ issues.
William James once said that the greatest discovery of his generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind.
Earning my master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from New York University, I am a compassionate, empathetic and culturally competent therapist with extensive knowledge in addiction disorders, eating disorders, anxiety disorders and LGBTQ issues.
William James once said that the greatest discovery of his generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind.
(347) 851-8358 View (347) 851-8358
Photo of Judith Arlene Stein, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith Arlene Stein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
* Warm, Accepting, & Compassionate * Holistic Approach (Buddhism, CBT, wellness, DBT, psychodynamic) * Eating Disorders Specialist * Mood Disorders Specialist (depression, bipolar disorder) * LGBT-friendly * Trained at Ackerman Institute * Some Sliding Scale Fee Slots * Union Square & Westchester Offices * Former Adjunct Professor NYU School of Social Work * Past-Vice President of Family & Divorce Mediation Council.
I have a unique, interdisciplinary background as a seasoned and compassionate holistic psychotherapist (individual, couples, family), divorce/family mediator, child specialist, and divorce coach. I view and treat patients as whole people, integrating Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, wellness, and Buddhist principles into a tailored holistic approach. Together, these approaches help patients understand and change how their thoughts and emotions impact their behavior. As a mediator, child specialist, and divorce coach, I am committed to helping people avoid court and resolve their differences sensibly and compassionately. I am passionate about minimizing the negative effects of divorce and separation by fostering effective coparenting.
* Warm, Accepting, & Compassionate * Holistic Approach (Buddhism, CBT, wellness, DBT, psychodynamic) * Eating Disorders Specialist * Mood Disorders Specialist (depression, bipolar disorder) * LGBT-friendly * Trained at Ackerman Institute * Some Sliding Scale Fee Slots * Union Square & Westchester Offices * Former Adjunct Professor NYU School of Social Work * Past-Vice President of Family & Divorce Mediation Council.
I have a unique, interdisciplinary background as a seasoned and compassionate holistic psychotherapist (individual, couples, family), divorce/family mediator, child specialist, and divorce coach. I view and treat patients as whole people, integrating Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, wellness, and Buddhist principles into a tailored holistic approach. Together, these approaches help patients understand and change how their thoughts and emotions impact their behavior. As a mediator, child specialist, and divorce coach, I am committed to helping people avoid court and resolve their differences sensibly and compassionately. I am passionate about minimizing the negative effects of divorce and separation by fostering effective coparenting.
(646) 770-2992 View (646) 770-2992
Photo of Jess Allen, LCSW, A-CBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jess Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, A-CBT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Populations served: adults, adolescents/youth, young adults, women, LGBTQ individuals, and couples.
I am passionate and committed to working with my clients to change thinking patterns and behaviors leading to happier, more satisfying lives. I will work with you to set goals and focus on achieving them! I believe that feeling comfortable in therapy is crucial and that your connection to your therapist is most valuable. Because of this, I have multiple clinicians at the practice to make sure that everyone finds the right fit for them. I am a certified in CBT and use this approach to teach clients to be their own therapists!
Populations served: adults, adolescents/youth, young adults, women, LGBTQ individuals, and couples.
I am passionate and committed to working with my clients to change thinking patterns and behaviors leading to happier, more satisfying lives. I will work with you to set goals and focus on achieving them! I believe that feeling comfortable in therapy is crucial and that your connection to your therapist is most valuable. Because of this, I have multiple clinicians at the practice to make sure that everyone finds the right fit for them. I am a certified in CBT and use this approach to teach clients to be their own therapists!
(646) 755-3487 View (646) 755-3487
Photo of Alexa Rillman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexa Rillman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I am a New York based psychotherapist that offers individual therapy to adults and adolescents who are experiencing concerns related to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief, relationship and intimacy issues, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My aim is to create an environment that allows for curiosity and exploration of what keeps you stuck right now and what can help move you forward. I also have a particular interest in how cultural and societal factors impact that way we see ourselves and the challenges we face.
I am a New York based psychotherapist that offers individual therapy to adults and adolescents who are experiencing concerns related to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief, relationship and intimacy issues, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My aim is to create an environment that allows for curiosity and exploration of what keeps you stuck right now and what can help move you forward. I also have a particular interest in how cultural and societal factors impact that way we see ourselves and the challenges we face.
(929) 930-3512 View (929) 930-3512
Photo of undefined - Sirron Psychodynamic Wellness, LLC, DSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sirron Psychodynamic Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I earned my Masters of Social Work (M.S.W.) from the Columbia University School of Social Work at Columbia University, and my Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) from the Rutgers University School of Social Work. I am currently undergoing advanced training at the National Institute for the Psychotherapies (NIP), a progressive psychoanalytic training institute. I have worked in community mental health centers, inpatient psychiatric units, and jails. I have extensive experience with trauma, depression, LGBTQIA+, race/cultural identity, anxiety, couples, CPTSD, substance use, life transitions, codependency, and personality disorders.
I earned my Masters of Social Work (M.S.W.) from the Columbia University School of Social Work at Columbia University, and my Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) from the Rutgers University School of Social Work. I am currently undergoing advanced training at the National Institute for the Psychotherapies (NIP), a progressive psychoanalytic training institute. I have worked in community mental health centers, inpatient psychiatric units, and jails. I have extensive experience with trauma, depression, LGBTQIA+, race/cultural identity, anxiety, couples, CPTSD, substance use, life transitions, codependency, and personality disorders.
(347) 652-1969 View (347) 652-1969
Photo of June Burstein, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
June Burstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
As more awareness is given to the LGBTQ+ community, June brings knowledge and acceptance to create a safe place where clients can learn to embrace their true selves.
There are times when life can become overwhelming and stressful. June Burstein provides a non-judgmental approach to guide her clients to understand their behaviors and learn coping skills to improve their quality of life. As a seasoned clinician with over 30 years of experience, she offers support to individuals and couples looking to strengthen their communication skills and cultivate their relationships. Patients will learn interpersonal skills like validation and empathic listening.
As more awareness is given to the LGBTQ+ community, June brings knowledge and acceptance to create a safe place where clients can learn to embrace their true selves.
There are times when life can become overwhelming and stressful. June Burstein provides a non-judgmental approach to guide her clients to understand their behaviors and learn coping skills to improve their quality of life. As a seasoned clinician with over 30 years of experience, she offers support to individuals and couples looking to strengthen their communication skills and cultivate their relationships. Patients will learn interpersonal skills like validation and empathic listening.
(914) 252-3060 View (914) 252-3060
LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.