LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 30324

Photo of Brian R Gieringer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 30324, GA
Brian R Gieringer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
Life doesn't have to be so hard. LGBTQ people face extra pressures and struggles in life compared to straight or cisgender peers. You want a therapist who will understand what it's like to be an LGBTQ person in Atlanta. I'm a gay therapist, and I have been in Atlanta since 1997. I know what it's like to be a part of our community.
Life doesn't have to be so hard. LGBTQ people face extra pressures and struggles in life compared to straight or cisgender peers. You want a therapist who will understand what it's like to be an LGBTQ person in Atlanta. I'm a gay therapist, and I have been in Atlanta since 1997. I know what it's like to be a part of our community.
(404) 948-4557 View (404) 948-4557
Photo of Pierre Hooten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 30324, GA
Pierre Hooten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324  (Online Only)
With over 9 years of experience I’ve developed an expertise in helping gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender indiviuals.
Have you found yourself struggling with overwhelming Depression, and because you identify as LGBTQ+ it seems hard to find a therapist who you can relate to and actually feel comfortable talking to? Individuals tend to seek therapy for depression when they have exhausted their resources and ability to cope. Whether you’re struggling in your relationships, feeling stressed about family life, experiencing mood swings and intrusive thoughts or feeling like giving up. Consider booking a therapy session today. You will learn the skills needed to overcome the feelings of depression and return to your original peace of mind.
With over 9 years of experience I’ve developed an expertise in helping gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender indiviuals.
Have you found yourself struggling with overwhelming Depression, and because you identify as LGBTQ+ it seems hard to find a therapist who you can relate to and actually feel comfortable talking to? Individuals tend to seek therapy for depression when they have exhausted their resources and ability to cope. Whether you’re struggling in your relationships, feeling stressed about family life, experiencing mood swings and intrusive thoughts or feeling like giving up. Consider booking a therapy session today. You will learn the skills needed to overcome the feelings of depression and return to your original peace of mind.
(404) 999-0767 View (404) 999-0767
Photo of LGBT Therapy with Michael D. McAllister , Licensed Professional Counselor in 30324, GA
LGBT Therapy with Michael D. McAllister
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I am a counselor specializing in working with the LGBT community. Are you living in the present moment or always worried about the future or dwelling in the past? Are you a harsh self critic? I choose to see myself as a work in progress that I try not to judge, but to treat with compassionate acceptance. Accepting oneself for who one is...in this present moment, is they key to emotional balance and a fulfilling life. Still, we can strive for our greatest potential by recognizing negative patterns in our lives and seeking change and healthy balance. For more details: www.NowTherapy.com
I am a counselor specializing in working with the LGBT community. Are you living in the present moment or always worried about the future or dwelling in the past? Are you a harsh self critic? I choose to see myself as a work in progress that I try not to judge, but to treat with compassionate acceptance. Accepting oneself for who one is...in this present moment, is they key to emotional balance and a fulfilling life. Still, we can strive for our greatest potential by recognizing negative patterns in our lives and seeking change and healthy balance. For more details: www.NowTherapy.com
(404) 994-3373 View (404) 994-3373
Photo of Preston Sembler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 30324, GA
Preston Sembler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
Preston works with individuals and couples, specializing in LGBTQIA+ populations 16 years and older. As a gay man, he recognizes the need for an unconditionally affirming space to explore issues of sexuality, gender, self-esteem/self-hate, body image, relationship issues, open/poly relationships, anxiety, depression, etc. His counseling style focuses on developing a genuine connection with his clients based on mutual respect and trust in order to facilitate the client’s growth. Therapy can feel like serious work, but Preston recognizes the need for positivity, encouragement, and laughter throughout the process.
Preston works with individuals and couples, specializing in LGBTQIA+ populations 16 years and older. As a gay man, he recognizes the need for an unconditionally affirming space to explore issues of sexuality, gender, self-esteem/self-hate, body image, relationship issues, open/poly relationships, anxiety, depression, etc. His counseling style focuses on developing a genuine connection with his clients based on mutual respect and trust in order to facilitate the client’s growth. Therapy can feel like serious work, but Preston recognizes the need for positivity, encouragement, and laughter throughout the process.
(352) 587-5204 View (352) 587-5204
Photo of Stephen Rock Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 30324, GA
Stephen Rock Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I work with a wide range of adolescents and adults, in particular those in the LGBTQIA community who are seeking to understand and accept themselves. This process involves self-discovery, understanding and self-acceptance. We can work together through issues such as shame, guilt, low self - esteem, school bullying, verbal/physical abuse, discrimination and the lack of family and societal support. We can also navigate possible conflicts of spirituality and personal values with sexual orientation/gender identity.
I work with a wide range of adolescents and adults, in particular those in the LGBTQIA community who are seeking to understand and accept themselves. This process involves self-discovery, understanding and self-acceptance. We can work together through issues such as shame, guilt, low self - esteem, school bullying, verbal/physical abuse, discrimination and the lack of family and societal support. We can also navigate possible conflicts of spirituality and personal values with sexual orientation/gender identity.
(678) 647-9379 View (678) 647-9379
Photo of Crystal Washington Coaching, Pre-Licensed Professional in 30324, GA
Crystal Washington Coaching
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Crystal, a compassionate therapist offering life coaching specializing in guiding individuals through trauma recovery, relationship dynamics, life transitions, veteran support, and serving the LGBTQIA+ community. With 2 years of therapy experience, I've had the privilege of witnessing remarkable transformations in my clients' lives. Whether you're grappling with past traumas, navigating the complexities of relationships, undergoing major life transitions, transitioning into civilian life as a veteran, or seeking support within the LGBTQIA+ community together, we'll embark on a journey of healing, growth, and empowerment.
Hello, I'm Crystal, a compassionate therapist offering life coaching specializing in guiding individuals through trauma recovery, relationship dynamics, life transitions, veteran support, and serving the LGBTQIA+ community. With 2 years of therapy experience, I've had the privilege of witnessing remarkable transformations in my clients' lives. Whether you're grappling with past traumas, navigating the complexities of relationships, undergoing major life transitions, transitioning into civilian life as a veteran, or seeking support within the LGBTQIA+ community together, we'll embark on a journey of healing, growth, and empowerment.
(770) 872-6373 View (770) 872-6373
Photo of Laura Knox Furfari, Marriage & Family Therapist in 30324, GA
Laura Knox Furfari
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I am LGBTQIA+-affirming and allied and enjoy working with queer individuals and couples.
If life is feeling hard or you're just feeling stuck, I'm here to walk alongside you and help you determine what you need next. I believe deeply in this process of therapy and in creating a warm, nonjudgmental atmosphere where clients can feel free to be and express themselves fully. Maybe you are dealing with relationship concerns, overwhelming anxiety or feelings of sadness and despair. Perhaps you have unresolved trauma or childhood pain, or experience feelings of detachment or impulsivity. Maybe you feel a little lost and are looking to find your voice and your purpose.
I am LGBTQIA+-affirming and allied and enjoy working with queer individuals and couples.
If life is feeling hard or you're just feeling stuck, I'm here to walk alongside you and help you determine what you need next. I believe deeply in this process of therapy and in creating a warm, nonjudgmental atmosphere where clients can feel free to be and express themselves fully. Maybe you are dealing with relationship concerns, overwhelming anxiety or feelings of sadness and despair. Perhaps you have unresolved trauma or childhood pain, or experience feelings of detachment or impulsivity. Maybe you feel a little lost and are looking to find your voice and your purpose.
(706) 438-4179 View (706) 438-4179
Photo of Joshua M Noblitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in 30324, GA
Joshua M Noblitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I provide individual, relationship, and group psychotherapy for adolescents and adults, specializing in sexual problems, spirituality, multicultural clients/families/issues, LGBTQ clients, grief/loss, anxiety/depression, premarital counseling, HIV/AIDS, and a variety of other presenting issues. I hope that I can be of service to you as you engage the therapeutic process for yourself.
I provide individual, relationship, and group psychotherapy for adolescents and adults, specializing in sexual problems, spirituality, multicultural clients/families/issues, LGBTQ clients, grief/loss, anxiety/depression, premarital counseling, HIV/AIDS, and a variety of other presenting issues. I hope that I can be of service to you as you engage the therapeutic process for yourself.
(404) 236-6874 View (404) 236-6874
Photo of Tony Sykes, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30324, GA
Tony Sykes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
Tony Sykes, LPC Tony Sykes is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2011. Tony is a clinician that serves individuals who have anxiety and depression. He works with individuals that are bipolar and teenagers and young adults who are trying to figure out who they are gender identity and sexuality wise. Tony is a part of the LGBTQIA community, so he wants to serve the community. Tony offers disability advocacy and HIV and STI processing. As you can see, Tony has many skills, plus some he didn't mention. Outside of work, Tony enjoys creativity and directing.
Tony Sykes, LPC Tony Sykes is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2011. Tony is a clinician that serves individuals who have anxiety and depression. He works with individuals that are bipolar and teenagers and young adults who are trying to figure out who they are gender identity and sexuality wise. Tony is a part of the LGBTQIA community, so he wants to serve the community. Tony offers disability advocacy and HIV and STI processing. As you can see, Tony has many skills, plus some he didn't mention. Outside of work, Tony enjoys creativity and directing.
(470) 837-2765 View (470) 837-2765
Photo of Alison C. Reed, Pre-Licensed Professional in 30324, GA
Alison C. Reed
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MPH
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
I offer both group and individual therapy for people on a fertility journey, including infertility, as well as pregnancy, "fourth trimester," and parenting after infertility, for people identifying as heterosexual, LGBTQIA+, Single Mothers By Choice, and/or Single Fathers By Choice.
Are you on a fertility journey? Have you experienced obstacles along the way? Perhaps nothing is as disempowering as struggling with fertility. For many of us, issues with fertility mark the first time that we have wanted our bodies to do something that they seem not capable of doing. Struggles with fertility are traumatic experiences. Maybe we feel removed from friends with children, siblings with children, or parents who may not understand. Is it any wonder why we may be struggling?
I offer both group and individual therapy for people on a fertility journey, including infertility, as well as pregnancy, "fourth trimester," and parenting after infertility, for people identifying as heterosexual, LGBTQIA+, Single Mothers By Choice, and/or Single Fathers By Choice.
Are you on a fertility journey? Have you experienced obstacles along the way? Perhaps nothing is as disempowering as struggling with fertility. For many of us, issues with fertility mark the first time that we have wanted our bodies to do something that they seem not capable of doing. Struggles with fertility are traumatic experiences. Maybe we feel removed from friends with children, siblings with children, or parents who may not understand. Is it any wonder why we may be struggling?
(404) 738-7936 View (404) 738-7936
Photo of Ru Johanson- Murray, Counselor in 30324, GA
Ru Johanson- Murray
Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
Waitlist for new clients
While the journey to self-discovery may be a life long process, we can utilize the power that comes from knowledge of self, our relationships, and experiences, to make the best choices for our authentic selves. This can also bring awareness to what parts of ourselves need nurturance, acceptance, and healing. My goal in counseling is to create a safe space where clients can explore themselves with curiosity and support. I have a passion for providing affirming counseling for BIPOC, Neurodiverse, and LGBTQIA+ populations. I work with teens, adults, relationships, sex therapy, and the complexities of the human experience.
While the journey to self-discovery may be a life long process, we can utilize the power that comes from knowledge of self, our relationships, and experiences, to make the best choices for our authentic selves. This can also bring awareness to what parts of ourselves need nurturance, acceptance, and healing. My goal in counseling is to create a safe space where clients can explore themselves with curiosity and support. I have a passion for providing affirming counseling for BIPOC, Neurodiverse, and LGBTQIA+ populations. I work with teens, adults, relationships, sex therapy, and the complexities of the human experience.
(678) 270-2469 View (678) 270-2469
Photo of Melissa Grasso (Formerly Macdonald), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 30324, GA
Melissa Grasso (Formerly Macdonald)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
I specialize in working with adults and couples with the following concerns: relationship distress, attachment, women’s issues, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression, body-image issues, stress management, substance use, self-awareness and personal growth.
Above all treatment modalities, the biggest predictor of success in therapy is a positive relationship between the client and the therapist. As a therapist, I work to create a safe, non-judgemental therapeutic environment in which clients can heal and grow. During our time in therapy together, we will work closely to analyze what struggles you are facing, their underlying causes, and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
I specialize in working with adults and couples with the following concerns: relationship distress, attachment, women’s issues, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression, body-image issues, stress management, substance use, self-awareness and personal growth.
Above all treatment modalities, the biggest predictor of success in therapy is a positive relationship between the client and the therapist. As a therapist, I work to create a safe, non-judgemental therapeutic environment in which clients can heal and grow. During our time in therapy together, we will work closely to analyze what struggles you are facing, their underlying causes, and try to change the behaviors and thought patterns that are keeping you from being the person you want to be.
(404) 738-9856 View (404) 738-9856
Photo of Aaron James Kimble in 30324, GA
Aaron James Kimble
PhD, MA, MBA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
My ideal client is every client who is in need of a listening ear. However, my specialty focuses on those who suffer with anxiety, depression, performance or sexual concerns including sexual trauma and/or performance anxiety. I also work with former or current athletes, military veterans, police officers, and trauma survivors who may suffer with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. My specialty also focuses on feminist therapy as I empower and encourage those who are under privileged and underserved. I also enjoy working with members of the LGBT+ community to empower growth and give a voice to any member of the LGBT group.
My ideal client is every client who is in need of a listening ear. However, my specialty focuses on those who suffer with anxiety, depression, performance or sexual concerns including sexual trauma and/or performance anxiety. I also work with former or current athletes, military veterans, police officers, and trauma survivors who may suffer with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. My specialty also focuses on feminist therapy as I empower and encourage those who are under privileged and underserved. I also enjoy working with members of the LGBT+ community to empower growth and give a voice to any member of the LGBT group.
(470) 435-6887 View (470) 435-6887
Photo of Michele Hodges, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 30324, GA
Michele Hodges
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I am affirming of LGBTQIA+ individuals and alternative interests like non-monogamy and kink.
I work with individuals and with intimate partners. With a warm, accepting and curious style, I have helped clients with challenges like depression, anxiety, stress, traumatic childhood events, self-doubt and narcissistic abuse. In my approach, I helps clients to understand the relationship between themselves and their situation—personal, societal and cultural—in order to create healing, self-compassion and personal growth.
I am affirming of LGBTQIA+ individuals and alternative interests like non-monogamy and kink.
I work with individuals and with intimate partners. With a warm, accepting and curious style, I have helped clients with challenges like depression, anxiety, stress, traumatic childhood events, self-doubt and narcissistic abuse. In my approach, I helps clients to understand the relationship between themselves and their situation—personal, societal and cultural—in order to create healing, self-compassion and personal growth.
(470) 664-2371 View (470) 664-2371
Photo of Chris Hunter DeVinney, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30324, GA
Chris Hunter DeVinney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I work with adults seeking to optimize intimate relationships and embrace the vitality that comes when we express our full sexual selves. I believe in the healing power of authenticity, secure connection, and self-acceptance. My passion and focus is working with clients to strengthen emotional and physical intimacy and healthy engagement by improving communication, building or rebuilding trust, releasing shame, and embracing self-acceptance. I have experience working with neurodiverse clients as well as clients struggling with anxiety and depression. I am sex-positive, kink-, queer-, trans-, and consensual non-monogamy-friendly.
I work with adults seeking to optimize intimate relationships and embrace the vitality that comes when we express our full sexual selves. I believe in the healing power of authenticity, secure connection, and self-acceptance. My passion and focus is working with clients to strengthen emotional and physical intimacy and healthy engagement by improving communication, building or rebuilding trust, releasing shame, and embracing self-acceptance. I have experience working with neurodiverse clients as well as clients struggling with anxiety and depression. I am sex-positive, kink-, queer-, trans-, and consensual non-monogamy-friendly.
(470) 264-6094 View (470) 264-6094
Photo of David E Loftis, Psychologist in 30324, GA
David E Loftis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I enjoy working with individuals and couples, both straight and gay.
I have been working with people in Atlanta as a licensed clinical psychologist for36years. They may be experiencing anxiety or depression or frustration or anger or even hopelessness. These feelings may be related to issues such as their family of origin, their current relationship, their job, their health, their sexuality or other areas of life. While I have on occasion worked with children and adolescents, I work primarily with adults in individual, couples and group psychotherapy. I find it fulfilling to work with people to make positive changes in their lives.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples, both straight and gay.
I have been working with people in Atlanta as a licensed clinical psychologist for36years. They may be experiencing anxiety or depression or frustration or anger or even hopelessness. These feelings may be related to issues such as their family of origin, their current relationship, their job, their health, their sexuality or other areas of life. While I have on occasion worked with children and adolescents, I work primarily with adults in individual, couples and group psychotherapy. I find it fulfilling to work with people to make positive changes in their lives.
(404) 369-5244 View (404) 369-5244
Photo of Barbara Anne Thomason, Psychologist in 30324, GA
Barbara Anne Thomason
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
Relationship issues, sexual abuse and associated trauma, gay and lesbian concerns, and grief and loss continue to be major areas of focus.
Having been trained in a humanistic/holistic model of therapy (Experiential, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Family Systems), I have adhered to what is now called an “integrative” approach to mental health issues. Specifically, when I engage with a client we focus on the interaction of all the dimensions of his or her life, i.e., biological, psychological, social, behavioral, and spiritual. Subsequently, we embark on an exciting journey together to explore a path that leads to a more optimal state of well-being and a greater sense of wholeness.
Relationship issues, sexual abuse and associated trauma, gay and lesbian concerns, and grief and loss continue to be major areas of focus.
Having been trained in a humanistic/holistic model of therapy (Experiential, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Family Systems), I have adhered to what is now called an “integrative” approach to mental health issues. Specifically, when I engage with a client we focus on the interaction of all the dimensions of his or her life, i.e., biological, psychological, social, behavioral, and spiritual. Subsequently, we embark on an exciting journey together to explore a path that leads to a more optimal state of well-being and a greater sense of wholeness.
(678) 710-3380 View (678) 710-3380
Photo of William Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30324, GA
William Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
Momentum. Clarity. Possibilities. I counsel individuals and couples facing a variety of challenges. I partner with clients to discover, explore, and employ strategies to deal with the "stuff" of life. Some issues addressed include depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, infidelity, sexual issues, as well as expertise and savvy in LGBTQ+ issues. Respect, honesty, trust, and equality form the basis of my therapeutic relationships. For more information, please visit my website at williambrowncounseling.com or call for a FREE 30 minute phone consultation.
Momentum. Clarity. Possibilities. I counsel individuals and couples facing a variety of challenges. I partner with clients to discover, explore, and employ strategies to deal with the "stuff" of life. Some issues addressed include depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, infidelity, sexual issues, as well as expertise and savvy in LGBTQ+ issues. Respect, honesty, trust, and equality form the basis of my therapeutic relationships. For more information, please visit my website at williambrowncounseling.com or call for a FREE 30 minute phone consultation.
(678) 929-6437 View (678) 929-6437
Photo of Stephanie Haft, Psychologist in 30324, GA
Stephanie Haft
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
Trauma, PTSD, anxiety, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic attacks, social anxiety, sleep problems, depression, perfectionism, substance use, anger, guilt, shame, veterans & active-duty military, tics, trichotillomania, intergenerational trauma, discrimination, immigration difficulties, acculturation, LGBTQIA+, ethical nonmonogamy, multiculturalism.
A mantra that resonates with me both personally and professionally is, “Do a brave thing every day.” I love working with clients who are motivated to self-discover and grow. I specialize in providing exposure therapy and other evidence-based treatments to individuals who struggle with problems related to OCD, trauma, anxiety, and fear-based difficulties. I also specialize in helping clients overcome tics, skin-picking, and trichotillomania. I use a flexible approach to individually tailor evidence-based tools and treatments to each client based on values, culture, and client needs.
Trauma, PTSD, anxiety, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic attacks, social anxiety, sleep problems, depression, perfectionism, substance use, anger, guilt, shame, veterans & active-duty military, tics, trichotillomania, intergenerational trauma, discrimination, immigration difficulties, acculturation, LGBTQIA+, ethical nonmonogamy, multiculturalism.
A mantra that resonates with me both personally and professionally is, “Do a brave thing every day.” I love working with clients who are motivated to self-discover and grow. I specialize in providing exposure therapy and other evidence-based treatments to individuals who struggle with problems related to OCD, trauma, anxiety, and fear-based difficulties. I also specialize in helping clients overcome tics, skin-picking, and trichotillomania. I use a flexible approach to individually tailor evidence-based tools and treatments to each client based on values, culture, and client needs.
(470) 536-4786 View (470) 536-4786
Photo of Michael Fountain, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30324, GA
Michael Fountain
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
Hello, my name is Michael and I am Licensed Professional Counselor & Certified Professional Clinical Supervisor. For over 15 years I have worked in several community based settings to provide oversight to clinical programs and counseling services. My areas of specialties include issues of meditation and mindfulness, addictions, grief and loss, depression problems, oppositional and defiant issues for children, homelessness, spiritual connectedness, leadership development, stress management, LGBTQ issues, and trauma that impact the growth, development, and potentially impeded on one's personal growth.
Hello, my name is Michael and I am Licensed Professional Counselor & Certified Professional Clinical Supervisor. For over 15 years I have worked in several community based settings to provide oversight to clinical programs and counseling services. My areas of specialties include issues of meditation and mindfulness, addictions, grief and loss, depression problems, oppositional and defiant issues for children, homelessness, spiritual connectedness, leadership development, stress management, LGBTQ issues, and trauma that impact the growth, development, and potentially impeded on one's personal growth.
(470) 354-1282 View (470) 354-1282
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.