LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 19041

Photo of Julian R Malys-Gordon, PsyD, Psychologist
Julian R Malys-Gordon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041  (Online Only)
As a queer transgender man myself, I understand the intricacies of seeking mental health care as an LGBTQ+ individual.
My goal is to help those in the LGBTQ+ community navigate the social and personal challenges of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as co-occurring mental health symptoms that they may be experiencing. I provide a safe therapeutic environment to meet the unique needs of this community. I have experience working with those of varying gender identities, sexual orientations, as well as varying non-monogamous relationship orientations. I also have experience working with individuals preparing for or receiving gender affirming medical care.
As a queer transgender man myself, I understand the intricacies of seeking mental health care as an LGBTQ+ individual.
My goal is to help those in the LGBTQ+ community navigate the social and personal challenges of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as co-occurring mental health symptoms that they may be experiencing. I provide a safe therapeutic environment to meet the unique needs of this community. I have experience working with those of varying gender identities, sexual orientations, as well as varying non-monogamous relationship orientations. I also have experience working with individuals preparing for or receiving gender affirming medical care.
(267) 491-9371 View (267) 491-9371
Photo of Jo Grey, MSS, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo Grey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haverford, PA 19041
I am a transgender, nonbinary person who has lived experience of being neurodivergent (AuDHD), queer, and living with disabilities & mental health challenges. I've been in recovery & actively involved in recovery communities for more than 20 years. I'm a licensed social worker & a psychotherapist, and I'm also a therapy client (since I was young), which informs my perspective as a therapist. I work at a group practice called Main Line Counseling & Wellness Center, where I see clients for in-person sessions in Haverford, & also offer online/ virtual sessions for folks throughout PA.
I am a transgender, nonbinary person who has lived experience of being neurodivergent (AuDHD), queer, and living with disabilities & mental health challenges. I've been in recovery & actively involved in recovery communities for more than 20 years. I'm a licensed social worker & a psychotherapist, and I'm also a therapy client (since I was young), which informs my perspective as a therapist. I work at a group practice called Main Line Counseling & Wellness Center, where I see clients for in-person sessions in Haverford, & also offer online/ virtual sessions for folks throughout PA.
(484) 603-3399 View (484) 603-3399
Photo of Matthew Semanision, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Semanision
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041  (Online Only)
My name is Matt Semanision. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Pennsylvania. I have spent the majority of my professional career working with the LGBTQIA+ population. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you.
My name is Matt Semanision. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Pennsylvania. I have spent the majority of my professional career working with the LGBTQIA+ population. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you.
(215) 253-4289 View (215) 253-4289
Photo of Christine Kennedy, MDiv, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Haverford, PA 19041
I have 20+ years of experience supporting adults, teens, couples, and families including LGBTQ+ navigating grief/loss, life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, spiritual concerns, and life-limiting illness.
Finding the right support is important. It takes courage to seek help when you are hurting. Perhaps life has brought you challenges and transitions that feel overwhelming, My goal is to meet you where you are and provide a warm and collaborative environment in which you are supported, cared for, and seen. I can provide you with tools to help rebalance your life so that you can move forward with confidence and clarity. Together let’s create the beautiful story of the life your heart knows is possible. Give me a call and let's find out if we are a good fit.
I have 20+ years of experience supporting adults, teens, couples, and families including LGBTQ+ navigating grief/loss, life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, spiritual concerns, and life-limiting illness.
Finding the right support is important. It takes courage to seek help when you are hurting. Perhaps life has brought you challenges and transitions that feel overwhelming, My goal is to meet you where you are and provide a warm and collaborative environment in which you are supported, cared for, and seen. I can provide you with tools to help rebalance your life so that you can move forward with confidence and clarity. Together let’s create the beautiful story of the life your heart knows is possible. Give me a call and let's find out if we are a good fit.
(610) 609-8336 View (610) 609-8336
Photo of Monica Felder, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Felder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041
My primary specialty is working with LGBTQIA+ children, adolescents, and young adults.
I am very passionate about working with children and adolescents who are questioning/embracing their gender and/or sexuality. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ASD, open/nonmonogamous relationships, suicidality, or many other issues, I would love to work with you. I want children and adolescents to feel autonomous and in control of their own therapy. I believe that the client is the expert on themselves and my job is to learn from them, while contributing with my own skillset.
My primary specialty is working with LGBTQIA+ children, adolescents, and young adults.
I am very passionate about working with children and adolescents who are questioning/embracing their gender and/or sexuality. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ASD, open/nonmonogamous relationships, suicidality, or many other issues, I would love to work with you. I want children and adolescents to feel autonomous and in control of their own therapy. I believe that the client is the expert on themselves and my job is to learn from them, while contributing with my own skillset.
(267) 310-0912 View (267) 310-0912
Photo of Rachael Livingston, LPC, CAADC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachael Livingston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Haverford, PA 19041
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) within the state of Pennsylvania. I am a trauma informed therapist who offers specialized care in the treatment of trauma as well as addiction related concerns. I hold certifications as a certified clinical trauma professional level 2 (CCTP-II) and certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor (CAADC). I also offer support for other common challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship/attachment concerns, life stressors, perinatal concerns, and struggles with self-esteem/identity. I am an LGBTQ+ ally and offer virtual and in person therapy sessions for adults ages 18+.
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) within the state of Pennsylvania. I am a trauma informed therapist who offers specialized care in the treatment of trauma as well as addiction related concerns. I hold certifications as a certified clinical trauma professional level 2 (CCTP-II) and certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor (CAADC). I also offer support for other common challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship/attachment concerns, life stressors, perinatal concerns, and struggles with self-esteem/identity. I am an LGBTQ+ ally and offer virtual and in person therapy sessions for adults ages 18+.
(610) 753-5434 View (610) 753-5434
Photo of Main Line Counseling Wellness Center Inc. - Main Line Counseling & Wellness Center, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Main Line Counseling & Wellness Center, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haverford, PA 19041
Our specialties include: anxiety & depression, stress management, caregiver stress, LGBTQIA+, social skills, life transitions & adjustment issues, parenting and pregnancy, relationship & communication issues.
Welcome! We are an experienced group of licensed, masters-level clinicians and holistic providers who work to help you through difficult times and make positive, long-lasting changes in your life. We offer a caring, safe, and comfortable environment complete with a range of wellness services (counseling, acupuncture, chiropractic care, nutrition, therapeutic massage, yoga) and we pride ourselves on providing respectful, client-centered treatment using the latest in evidenced-based and integrative care. Please visit us at http://www.mlcwellness.com for our profiles and complete the "request an appointment" form to schedule!
Our specialties include: anxiety & depression, stress management, caregiver stress, LGBTQIA+, social skills, life transitions & adjustment issues, parenting and pregnancy, relationship & communication issues.
Welcome! We are an experienced group of licensed, masters-level clinicians and holistic providers who work to help you through difficult times and make positive, long-lasting changes in your life. We offer a caring, safe, and comfortable environment complete with a range of wellness services (counseling, acupuncture, chiropractic care, nutrition, therapeutic massage, yoga) and we pride ourselves on providing respectful, client-centered treatment using the latest in evidenced-based and integrative care. Please visit us at http://www.mlcwellness.com for our profiles and complete the "request an appointment" form to schedule!
(610) 365-1775 View (610) 365-1775
Photo of Diane Gibfried, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Gibfried
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041
I have extensive experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community.
I offer an opportunity to address multiple issues with an emphasis on the effects of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss. Trauma and emotional pain can lead to a sense of being stuck. This can feel like being stuck in responses to situations and events and people that maintain our pain and present obstacles to our growth and flourishing. A warm and trusting therapeutic relationship can create an opportunity to get unstuck. This can manifest as increased confidence and a feeling that you are more present in your life. It can foster self awareness and improvement in your relationship with yourself and others.
I have extensive experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community.
I offer an opportunity to address multiple issues with an emphasis on the effects of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss. Trauma and emotional pain can lead to a sense of being stuck. This can feel like being stuck in responses to situations and events and people that maintain our pain and present obstacles to our growth and flourishing. A warm and trusting therapeutic relationship can create an opportunity to get unstuck. This can manifest as increased confidence and a feeling that you are more present in your life. It can foster self awareness and improvement in your relationship with yourself and others.
(610) 679-8004 View (610) 679-8004
Photo of Dora Ghetie, PsyD, Psychologist
Dora Ghetie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Haverford, PA 19041
I am LGBTQ friendly and also enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and multicultural individuals.
I believe that the most important and healing aspect of therapy is the relationship I develop with each of my clients. Whether you are seeking therapy for help with a specific problem or general dissatisfaction with your life, my first goal is always to establish an atmosphere of trust and openness so that you can talk freely about yourself. Therapy is not a quick fix, but sometimes even a few sessions can give you a different perspective. Being truly listened to is an experience people find very helpful from the very beginning.
I am LGBTQ friendly and also enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and multicultural individuals.
I believe that the most important and healing aspect of therapy is the relationship I develop with each of my clients. Whether you are seeking therapy for help with a specific problem or general dissatisfaction with your life, my first goal is always to establish an atmosphere of trust and openness so that you can talk freely about yourself. Therapy is not a quick fix, but sometimes even a few sessions can give you a different perspective. Being truly listened to is an experience people find very helpful from the very beginning.
(484) 334-8600 View (484) 334-8600
Photo of Tasnim Sulaiman, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tasnim Sulaiman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Haverford, PA 19041
I enjoy working with identity/self-esteem issues, men's/women's issues, LGBTQ, racial and cultural issues, unfulfillment and loss.
Are you struggling with relationships? Experiencing problems with anxiety, depression, or just an overall sense of unhappiness? Do you want something in your life to change but feel stuck? I'm a Psychotherapist who is blessed to do work that I love and am passionate about. I'm constantly inspired by the client's awareness, growth and transformation process that occurs in therapy. The therapeutic relationship is the best indicator of effective outcomes for clients. Therefore I focus on building relationships with emotional safety, comfort and trust. I tailor my theoretical approach to fit each individual's specific needs.
I enjoy working with identity/self-esteem issues, men's/women's issues, LGBTQ, racial and cultural issues, unfulfillment and loss.
Are you struggling with relationships? Experiencing problems with anxiety, depression, or just an overall sense of unhappiness? Do you want something in your life to change but feel stuck? I'm a Psychotherapist who is blessed to do work that I love and am passionate about. I'm constantly inspired by the client's awareness, growth and transformation process that occurs in therapy. The therapeutic relationship is the best indicator of effective outcomes for clients. Therefore I focus on building relationships with emotional safety, comfort and trust. I tailor my theoretical approach to fit each individual's specific needs.
(267) 401-1782 View (267) 401-1782
Photo of Elizabeth R. Weisman, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth R. Weisman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haverford, PA 19041
Areas of focus include:OCD, PTSD, trauma, Addictions, LGBTQ, Special Needs Parenting, Neurodiversity, PANS / PANDAS, FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), Grief & Loss, Adoption, Relationship issues, Chronic and severe mental illness, and Mind-body Wellness.
THE ONLY WAY OUT IS THROUGH (Robert Frost)... It is human to suffer and it is human to face challenges. When the suffering becomes too great, and the challenges too large, good therapy can play a key role in bringing about change. If you decide to work with me, I would consider it an honor to become part of your journey towards increased health and well-being. When you come to therapy, you will be treated with respect. I bring many years of experience as a therapist, providing both brief evidence-based interventions and long term psychodynamic approach. I will work carefully with you to define and achieve your personal goals.
Areas of focus include:OCD, PTSD, trauma, Addictions, LGBTQ, Special Needs Parenting, Neurodiversity, PANS / PANDAS, FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), Grief & Loss, Adoption, Relationship issues, Chronic and severe mental illness, and Mind-body Wellness.
THE ONLY WAY OUT IS THROUGH (Robert Frost)... It is human to suffer and it is human to face challenges. When the suffering becomes too great, and the challenges too large, good therapy can play a key role in bringing about change. If you decide to work with me, I would consider it an honor to become part of your journey towards increased health and well-being. When you come to therapy, you will be treated with respect. I bring many years of experience as a therapist, providing both brief evidence-based interventions and long term psychodynamic approach. I will work carefully with you to define and achieve your personal goals.
(267) 202-4386 View (267) 202-4386
Photo of Christine Cremonni, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Cremonni
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041
My ideal candidate is struggling with intrusive thoughts and anxiety; they need both a safe space to share their thoughts and emotions, as well as guidance; their goals are to develop a healthier relationship with themself, as well as develop coping skills and tools to manage their mental health concerns better.
My ideal candidate is struggling with intrusive thoughts and anxiety; they need both a safe space to share their thoughts and emotions, as well as guidance; their goals are to develop a healthier relationship with themself, as well as develop coping skills and tools to manage their mental health concerns better.
(484) 789-8855 View (484) 789-8855
Photo of Erica Hoffman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Hoffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041
Erica Hoffman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2011. Do you feel stuck and unsure where to turn for help? Erica is happy you are here! Whether or not you are struggling with depression, anxiety, life changes/transitions, stress and/or not feeling like yourself, we need to look towards shifting your mindset to achieve your goals. Erica specializes in helping moms and momstobe achieve balance and mental wellness.
Erica Hoffman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2011. Do you feel stuck and unsure where to turn for help? Erica is happy you are here! Whether or not you are struggling with depression, anxiety, life changes/transitions, stress and/or not feeling like yourself, we need to look towards shifting your mindset to achieve your goals. Erica specializes in helping moms and momstobe achieve balance and mental wellness.
(484) 900-8041 View (484) 900-8041
Photo of Claudia Wood, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041
Claudia Wood is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20+ years of practical background in mental health counseling of adolescents and adults in individual and couple modality. She received her MSW in 1993 from the University of Kansas. Before immigrating to the USA in 1989 she was trained and licensed in Germany in social work and social pedagogy. In her clinical approach, she specializes in solution-oriented therapy, cognitive therapy, hypnotherapy and NLP.
Claudia Wood is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20+ years of practical background in mental health counseling of adolescents and adults in individual and couple modality. She received her MSW in 1993 from the University of Kansas. Before immigrating to the USA in 1989 she was trained and licensed in Germany in social work and social pedagogy. In her clinical approach, she specializes in solution-oriented therapy, cognitive therapy, hypnotherapy and NLP.
(484) 806-0387 View (484) 806-0387
Photo of Alyssa Lopez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041
Alyssa C. Lopez is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2019. She obtained her Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Immaculata and also holds her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Saint Joseph's University. Alyssa approaches mental wellbeing from a holistic perspective, integrating aspects of healing the mind, body, and spirit. She offers a compassionate look at the foundational beliefs about yourself and the world that contribute to symptoms of depression, anxiety, obsessions, and reactivity, and help to realign these beliefs to get "unstuck" from old patterns.
Alyssa C. Lopez is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2019. She obtained her Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Immaculata and also holds her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Saint Joseph's University. Alyssa approaches mental wellbeing from a holistic perspective, integrating aspects of healing the mind, body, and spirit. She offers a compassionate look at the foundational beliefs about yourself and the world that contribute to symptoms of depression, anxiety, obsessions, and reactivity, and help to realign these beliefs to get "unstuck" from old patterns.
(484) 739-8271 View (484) 739-8271
Photo of Elizabeth B. Briganti, PsyD, Psychologist
Elizabeth B. Briganti
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haverford, PA 19041
My approach involves bringing change about from the inside out. We will work towards understanding how the problems that brought you here developed, what they mean, and the purpose that they serve. This approach goes beyond simply treating symptoms and strives to help you make changes that are deeply-rooted and long-lasting. It has been proven that the therapeutic relationship actually creates healthier connections in your brain. In younger children this deeper type of therapeutic change is often accomplished through therapeutic play. Play is the natural language of children and allows them to express their thoughts and feelings.
My approach involves bringing change about from the inside out. We will work towards understanding how the problems that brought you here developed, what they mean, and the purpose that they serve. This approach goes beyond simply treating symptoms and strives to help you make changes that are deeply-rooted and long-lasting. It has been proven that the therapeutic relationship actually creates healthier connections in your brain. In younger children this deeper type of therapeutic change is often accomplished through therapeutic play. Play is the natural language of children and allows them to express their thoughts and feelings.
(267) 403-4235 View (267) 403-4235
Photo of Anna Lipshutz - Main Line Therapy Solutions, PsyD, PhD, LCSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Main Line Therapy Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, PhD, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041
Main Line Therapy Solutions is a private group practice comprised of clinicians who are Psychologists, Social Workers, and Counselors. We are in-network with most local health insurance companies. Our clinicians have various backgrounds and areas of expertise and provide services in a warm and supportive private practice setting. When appropriate, we are also able to provide Telehealth Sessions for those interested in remaining in the comfort of their own home.
Main Line Therapy Solutions is a private group practice comprised of clinicians who are Psychologists, Social Workers, and Counselors. We are in-network with most local health insurance companies. Our clinicians have various backgrounds and areas of expertise and provide services in a warm and supportive private practice setting. When appropriate, we are also able to provide Telehealth Sessions for those interested in remaining in the comfort of their own home.
(484) 376-5519 View (484) 376-5519
Photo of Sofia Montgomery, MA, CTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sofia Montgomery
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Haverford, PA 19041
Waitlist for new clients
As a certified trauma professional, I aim to create a warm, inclusive, brave space in which my clients can explore their life experiences. I believe each individual is unique, as are their therapeutic needs, and I use a variety of evidence-based treatment models including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), IFS-informed, and mindfulness techniques to help guide our sessions. To that end, I also do not believe in pathologizing people, reducing them to a diagnosis or viewing them as a problem to “fix.” I believe in building a collaborative and trusting therapeutic relationship, to help re-define what the therapeutic space can be.
As a certified trauma professional, I aim to create a warm, inclusive, brave space in which my clients can explore their life experiences. I believe each individual is unique, as are their therapeutic needs, and I use a variety of evidence-based treatment models including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), IFS-informed, and mindfulness techniques to help guide our sessions. To that end, I also do not believe in pathologizing people, reducing them to a diagnosis or viewing them as a problem to “fix.” I believe in building a collaborative and trusting therapeutic relationship, to help re-define what the therapeutic space can be.
(484) 998-1405 View (484) 998-1405
Photo of Lisa Resnick, MA, EdM, LPC, CHHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Resnick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdM, LPC, CHHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Haverford, PA 19041  (Online Only)
I know that change is hard and requires courage, which is why I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and open space to discuss dreams, emotions and goals. I believe that people are resilient and that the work of a therapist is to assist clients in achievement of emotional independence. I help people gain insight into thoughts and feelings, within a supportive relationship, so that they can feel empowered to heal. Through expression, awareness, and accountability individuals connect with themselves, manifest growth and enact change in their lives.
I know that change is hard and requires courage, which is why I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and open space to discuss dreams, emotions and goals. I believe that people are resilient and that the work of a therapist is to assist clients in achievement of emotional independence. I help people gain insight into thoughts and feelings, within a supportive relationship, so that they can feel empowered to heal. Through expression, awareness, and accountability individuals connect with themselves, manifest growth and enact change in their lives.
(610) 440-3284 View (610) 440-3284
Photo of Marlo Hall - Marlo Hall, Psychotherapy, MS,  Ed, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marlo Hall, Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Haverford, PA 19041
Together, we will navigate through the frustrating, critical or painful patterns in your relationships. Especially the relationship you have with your self. People seek me out to learn how to nurture, connect, empathize and accept. Build the conflict resolution and validation skills that are powerful tools used to improve relationship dynamics. It simply does not need to be this hard, new ways to interact can elicit change. When emotional challenges create too great a struggle, therapy may help. We will discover positive and productive ways to successfully explore life and gain the wisdom to cope more effectively.
Together, we will navigate through the frustrating, critical or painful patterns in your relationships. Especially the relationship you have with your self. People seek me out to learn how to nurture, connect, empathize and accept. Build the conflict resolution and validation skills that are powerful tools used to improve relationship dynamics. It simply does not need to be this hard, new ways to interact can elicit change. When emotional challenges create too great a struggle, therapy may help. We will discover positive and productive ways to successfully explore life and gain the wisdom to cope more effectively.
(610) 839-7250 View (610) 839-7250
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.