LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 94702

Photo of Percy Raynier Castellanos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94702, CA
Percy Raynier Castellanos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702
If you are seeking a Queer, bilingual (English/Spanish), multicultural therapist of color with whom you can discuss the issues listed in my profile and website, then you are welcome to contact me to see if we are a good fit.
I am drawn to support clients heal the anxiety, guilt and shame from trauma. This may include trauma related to abuse, bullying, accidents, harassment, religious impositions, discrimination, and more. My clients often want to feel less anxiety, better manage their triggers, enjoy sexual intercourse with their partner(s), and redefine themselves from the trauma they experienced. Grounding techniques, challenging learned beliefs, asserting needs, and living more for self, are common themes in my practice and essential for post-traumatic growth. Integrating identities (e.g. race, ethnicity, sexuality, etc.) is common in my practice.
If you are seeking a Queer, bilingual (English/Spanish), multicultural therapist of color with whom you can discuss the issues listed in my profile and website, then you are welcome to contact me to see if we are a good fit.
I am drawn to support clients heal the anxiety, guilt and shame from trauma. This may include trauma related to abuse, bullying, accidents, harassment, religious impositions, discrimination, and more. My clients often want to feel less anxiety, better manage their triggers, enjoy sexual intercourse with their partner(s), and redefine themselves from the trauma they experienced. Grounding techniques, challenging learned beliefs, asserting needs, and living more for self, are common themes in my practice and essential for post-traumatic growth. Integrating identities (e.g. race, ethnicity, sexuality, etc.) is common in my practice.
(341) 999-7914 View (341) 999-7914
Photo of Caitlin Finnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94702, CA
Caitlin Finnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702  (Online Only)
While I work with a diversity of people, I specialize in working with LGBTQ individuals, couples and youth. As a Marriage and Family psychotherapist, I seek to help my clients find their way through the hardships that life can bring. I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship as well as each individual having the power to heal themselves. I believe in a strength based, solution focused approach to therapy and work with my clients to not only overcome their current circumstances but to also develop tools and strategies that they can use moving forward in their lives.
While I work with a diversity of people, I specialize in working with LGBTQ individuals, couples and youth. As a Marriage and Family psychotherapist, I seek to help my clients find their way through the hardships that life can bring. I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship as well as each individual having the power to heal themselves. I believe in a strength based, solution focused approach to therapy and work with my clients to not only overcome their current circumstances but to also develop tools and strategies that they can use moving forward in their lives.
(415) 630-6595 View (415) 630-6595
Photo of Ab (Abigail) Krumbein, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94702, CA
Ab (Abigail) Krumbein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94702  (Online Only)
I work with queer, trans, and nonbinary people, healers, activists, postpartum people, parents, twins, and those longing for deeper relationships with themselves and others.
We all deserve to feel safe and connected. Sometimes, overwhelming things happen that prevent us from feeling safe and settled in the world. In therapy, we support the strengths that have helped you survive and grow your capacity to move towards the life you long for. Whatever you are experiencing, be that anxiety, depression, or the pain of trauma or oppression, together we will collaborate to tend to what hurts and to nurture the vitality that exists inside you.
I work with queer, trans, and nonbinary people, healers, activists, postpartum people, parents, twins, and those longing for deeper relationships with themselves and others.
We all deserve to feel safe and connected. Sometimes, overwhelming things happen that prevent us from feeling safe and settled in the world. In therapy, we support the strengths that have helped you survive and grow your capacity to move towards the life you long for. Whatever you are experiencing, be that anxiety, depression, or the pain of trauma or oppression, together we will collaborate to tend to what hurts and to nurture the vitality that exists inside you.
(510) 916-2753 View (510) 916-2753
Photo of Dr. Richard Espinoza, Psychologist in 94702, CA
Dr. Richard Espinoza
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94702
My shortterm treatment offers an intensive, 12-week program specific for male and masc-presenting folks within the LGBTQ+ community.
Above all, I love my work as a psychologist. This profession allows me to act as both scientist and artist, and I take joy from watching people evolve in their lives. Blending science & art, therapy is a unique process where we talk over events of your life, some in the distant past, and some happening currently.
My shortterm treatment offers an intensive, 12-week program specific for male and masc-presenting folks within the LGBTQ+ community.
Above all, I love my work as a psychologist. This profession allows me to act as both scientist and artist, and I take joy from watching people evolve in their lives. Blending science & art, therapy is a unique process where we talk over events of your life, some in the distant past, and some happening currently.
(323) 508-7907 View (323) 508-7907
Photo of Heather Helmke, Psychologist in 94702, CA
Heather Helmke
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94702
My office is also a safe and affirming place for those who identify on the LGBTQIA spectrum.
It can be hard to meaningfully connect with others in today's fast paced, technologically reliant world. Traumatic experiences may cause one to withdraw and isolate from relationships and the environment, or can possibly lead one to engage in self-destructive behaviors. Therapy is a tool that helps when feeling stuck or overwhelmed, whether those feelings are created from underlying anxiety, depression, trauma, loss/grief, relationship issues, stress, or issues with self-esteem.
My office is also a safe and affirming place for those who identify on the LGBTQIA spectrum.
It can be hard to meaningfully connect with others in today's fast paced, technologically reliant world. Traumatic experiences may cause one to withdraw and isolate from relationships and the environment, or can possibly lead one to engage in self-destructive behaviors. Therapy is a tool that helps when feeling stuck or overwhelmed, whether those feelings are created from underlying anxiety, depression, trauma, loss/grief, relationship issues, stress, or issues with self-esteem.
(510) 462-3812 View (510) 462-3812
Photo of Remi Bean, Licensed Professional Counselor in 94702, CA
Remi Bean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with transgender, non-binary, and queer clients who are exploring their gender and sexuality.
Do you want to be accepted just as you are rather than shamed or judged? Do you want a safe place to heal from trauma, explore your identity, or learn how to cope with stress? Therapy will give you the tools and resources to recover from trauma, resolve conflict and build intimacy in your relationships, develop effective communication skills, and manage anxiety. A safe therapeutic relationship will help you discover and articulate your authentic self, free of shame and guilt. Therapy can also help you unlearn harmful relationship patterns and be more kind to yourself. You are not alone!
I specialize in working with transgender, non-binary, and queer clients who are exploring their gender and sexuality.
Do you want to be accepted just as you are rather than shamed or judged? Do you want a safe place to heal from trauma, explore your identity, or learn how to cope with stress? Therapy will give you the tools and resources to recover from trauma, resolve conflict and build intimacy in your relationships, develop effective communication skills, and manage anxiety. A safe therapeutic relationship will help you discover and articulate your authentic self, free of shame and guilt. Therapy can also help you unlearn harmful relationship patterns and be more kind to yourself. You are not alone!
(510) 216-1873 View (510) 216-1873
Photo of Stephanie Bain, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94702, CA
Stephanie Bain
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702
I work with people who have been told they're “too sensitive,” “too much,” feel misunderstood, or feel alienated from the mainstream–people looking for a therapist who "gets it." You are not too intense, too sensitive, or too "out there." The whole of you is welcome with me! I specialize in both individual and couples therapy. Individuals who work with me are often struggling with intense emotions; couples who work with me are often stuck in loops of conflict or suffering from breakdowns in trust. I enthusiastically welcome activists, LGBTQIA+, poly + kinky folks, artists + dreamers, and highly sensitive + emotionally intense types.
I work with people who have been told they're “too sensitive,” “too much,” feel misunderstood, or feel alienated from the mainstream–people looking for a therapist who "gets it." You are not too intense, too sensitive, or too "out there." The whole of you is welcome with me! I specialize in both individual and couples therapy. Individuals who work with me are often struggling with intense emotions; couples who work with me are often stuck in loops of conflict or suffering from breakdowns in trust. I enthusiastically welcome activists, LGBTQIA+, poly + kinky folks, artists + dreamers, and highly sensitive + emotionally intense types.
(510) 216-1376 View (510) 216-1376
Photo of Arthur Sun, Pre-Licensed Professional in 94702, CA
Arthur Sun
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94702  (Online Only)
As queer, trans, Asian American, and neurodivergent, my therapeutic stance combines my professional and personal experiences with what I learn from you so we may co-create the best approach. Allow me to walk with you on your path, and I will lend guidance and perspective without ever imposing my will over yours. Let’s work together to find the next steps to whatever you bring, the middle path between the burdens and the joys. This can be more somatic-leaning, philosophically-inclined, skills-based, or any combination thereof.
As queer, trans, Asian American, and neurodivergent, my therapeutic stance combines my professional and personal experiences with what I learn from you so we may co-create the best approach. Allow me to walk with you on your path, and I will lend guidance and perspective without ever imposing my will over yours. Let’s work together to find the next steps to whatever you bring, the middle path between the burdens and the joys. This can be more somatic-leaning, philosophically-inclined, skills-based, or any combination thereof.
(323) 379-0230 View (323) 379-0230
Photo of Vivek Anand, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94702, CA
Vivek Anand
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MArch, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702
I connect with the South Asian and LGBTQ communities, with immigrants, with all groups and ages, and also relate to that which is universal and particular in you.
You are hurting, or anxious, are considering psychotherapy and whether to trust me to facilitate your healing. My experience with adults, couples and children will support your inner journey and that of loved ones. We will create space for you to contemplate internal, external and relationship challenges. Through an attuned therapeutic relationship, I will help you address internal challenges - depression, anxiety and trauma. Empathically, I help you face external challenges - discrimination, immigration and life transitions. I also support you in navigating relationships, in which your internal worlds connect with those of others.
I connect with the South Asian and LGBTQ communities, with immigrants, with all groups and ages, and also relate to that which is universal and particular in you.
You are hurting, or anxious, are considering psychotherapy and whether to trust me to facilitate your healing. My experience with adults, couples and children will support your inner journey and that of loved ones. We will create space for you to contemplate internal, external and relationship challenges. Through an attuned therapeutic relationship, I will help you address internal challenges - depression, anxiety and trauma. Empathically, I help you face external challenges - discrimination, immigration and life transitions. I also support you in navigating relationships, in which your internal worlds connect with those of others.
(415) 965-7434 View (415) 965-7434
Photo of Jessica Youseffi, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94702, CA
Jessica Youseffi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
31 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702
I'm a queer therapist and love supporting LGBTQ, poly clients, and people with marginalized identities.
Do you feel stuck in the same loops, repeating old patterns, and self-defeating behaviors? Through a mindfulness-based, somatic, and trauma-sensitive approach, I support you to break these cycles, let go of limiting beliefs and be free to live the life you want. I specialize in supporting individuals who struggle with issues related to anxiety, perfectionism, low self-esteem and depression. My style is warm, authentic and direct - I'm here to help you feel more grounded and self-assured so that you can better navigate relationships, life transitions, and daily stressors.
I'm a queer therapist and love supporting LGBTQ, poly clients, and people with marginalized identities.
Do you feel stuck in the same loops, repeating old patterns, and self-defeating behaviors? Through a mindfulness-based, somatic, and trauma-sensitive approach, I support you to break these cycles, let go of limiting beliefs and be free to live the life you want. I specialize in supporting individuals who struggle with issues related to anxiety, perfectionism, low self-esteem and depression. My style is warm, authentic and direct - I'm here to help you feel more grounded and self-assured so that you can better navigate relationships, life transitions, and daily stressors.
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Photo of Katherine Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94702, CA
Katherine Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94702
I am passionate about offering strengths-based and client-centered therapy while providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere to help clients navigate through the challenges that life may bring. I will focus on your strength and your progress along the way. I have supported many members of the LGBTQIA community with a variety of concerns, including assisting some on their gender journey. I have also supported women with trauma, clients with anxiety disorders, and issues around perfectionism, identity, and purpose. I have also enjoyed working with adolescents and those that dance to the beat of their own drum.
I am passionate about offering strengths-based and client-centered therapy while providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere to help clients navigate through the challenges that life may bring. I will focus on your strength and your progress along the way. I have supported many members of the LGBTQIA community with a variety of concerns, including assisting some on their gender journey. I have also supported women with trauma, clients with anxiety disorders, and issues around perfectionism, identity, and purpose. I have also enjoyed working with adolescents and those that dance to the beat of their own drum.
(323) 205-7088 View (323) 205-7088
Photo of Annie de Jong, Psychologist in 94702, CA
Annie de Jong
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94702
I also have a sub-specialty working with individuals and couples around fertility and post-partum difficulties, and have a welcoming, LGBTQ friendly practice.
You may be feeling unhappy, lonely, or unmotivated. Perhaps a relationship is in crisis or an important part of your life is changing. Therapy practiced well by the right professional is an effective way to sort out a wide range of problems. My goal is to create a space where we can talk and think together about the particular difficulties you are experiencing and how to find a way through. I have learned to listen carefully and will approach our conversations with an attitude of curiosity and acceptance. Although getting started is often a big step, you’re likely to find it a valuable opportunity to reflect and move forward.
I also have a sub-specialty working with individuals and couples around fertility and post-partum difficulties, and have a welcoming, LGBTQ friendly practice.
You may be feeling unhappy, lonely, or unmotivated. Perhaps a relationship is in crisis or an important part of your life is changing. Therapy practiced well by the right professional is an effective way to sort out a wide range of problems. My goal is to create a space where we can talk and think together about the particular difficulties you are experiencing and how to find a way through. I have learned to listen carefully and will approach our conversations with an attitude of curiosity and acceptance. Although getting started is often a big step, you’re likely to find it a valuable opportunity to reflect and move forward.
(415) 689-7571 View (415) 689-7571
Photo of Marsha Hiller, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94702, CA
Marsha Hiller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702
I specialize in working with trauma, relationship issues, parenting, multi-racial families, LGBTQ issues, and adoption.
I have been licensed as an MFT working somatically, for over 30 years. I'm interested in what isn't working in your present life that brings you to therapy, what is unresolved from past relationships that you'd like to clear up, and what comes up in our relationship as we get to know one another. These facets help us create a complex experience which can transform old stuck patterns. Through the lens of my somatic training, clients can include their felt experiences in their bodies as an additional resource for exploring and understanding themselves. I also use a feminist and social justice orientation.
I specialize in working with trauma, relationship issues, parenting, multi-racial families, LGBTQ issues, and adoption.
I have been licensed as an MFT working somatically, for over 30 years. I'm interested in what isn't working in your present life that brings you to therapy, what is unresolved from past relationships that you'd like to clear up, and what comes up in our relationship as we get to know one another. These facets help us create a complex experience which can transform old stuck patterns. Through the lens of my somatic training, clients can include their felt experiences in their bodies as an additional resource for exploring and understanding themselves. I also use a feminist and social justice orientation.
(510) 788-2856 View (510) 788-2856
Photo of Laura Ortiz Guillen, Psychologist in 94702, CA
Laura Ortiz Guillen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702  (Online Only)
It's an honor to help others live more whole and integrated lives. I guide clients to explore and work through life's challenges from a body-mind-spirit framework. I have 20 years of experience in supporting clients experiencing: depressive and anxious symptoms, grief & loss, trauma, relationship concerns, cultural negotiations, life transitions, and spiritual concerns. I work with BIPOC and LGBTQ working professionals, first-generation and immigrant college students, and clients who are already or interested in Indigenous healing practices including Danza, Sweat Lodge, Temazcal ceremonies.
It's an honor to help others live more whole and integrated lives. I guide clients to explore and work through life's challenges from a body-mind-spirit framework. I have 20 years of experience in supporting clients experiencing: depressive and anxious symptoms, grief & loss, trauma, relationship concerns, cultural negotiations, life transitions, and spiritual concerns. I work with BIPOC and LGBTQ working professionals, first-generation and immigrant college students, and clients who are already or interested in Indigenous healing practices including Danza, Sweat Lodge, Temazcal ceremonies.
(510) 491-9604 View (510) 491-9604
Photo of Ariana Candell: Brainspotting, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94702, CA
Ariana Candell: Brainspotting
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Somatic
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702
I am a cisgender, heterosexual female of European descent who enjoys working with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC folks.
Are you ready to take a big step to move through deep-rooted issues? Do you feel frustrated that things aren't changing quickly enough in your life? If you’ve tried traditional or talk therapy without satisfaction, you may be ready to try something new that targets the core of your issues! Perhaps you’re working with a difficult relationship issue, a significant life transition or career challenges. If you have a history of anxiety, depression, childhood trauma or adult trauma, it can be hard to make changes on your own, but healing is possible and I'd love to support you!
I am a cisgender, heterosexual female of European descent who enjoys working with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC folks.
Are you ready to take a big step to move through deep-rooted issues? Do you feel frustrated that things aren't changing quickly enough in your life? If you’ve tried traditional or talk therapy without satisfaction, you may be ready to try something new that targets the core of your issues! Perhaps you’re working with a difficult relationship issue, a significant life transition or career challenges. If you have a history of anxiety, depression, childhood trauma or adult trauma, it can be hard to make changes on your own, but healing is possible and I'd love to support you!
(341) 444-3367 View (341) 444-3367
Photo of Lauren Mellone, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94702, CA
Lauren Mellone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702  (Online Only)
I welcome all people, including LGBT+, POC, and all ethnicities and religions.
Hi there! Finding a therapist can be a daunting task. Perhaps you're seeking extra support during a hard time, wanting to enhance your relationship(s), or feeling ready to explore some shadowy areas in your self. Maybe you are facing some existential or spiritual questions, and seeking personal transformation. All of these are vulnerable pursuits, and you want to find a therapist that feels comfortable for you! I'd love to talk with you and see if our connection feels right for the special work ahead of you.
I welcome all people, including LGBT+, POC, and all ethnicities and religions.
Hi there! Finding a therapist can be a daunting task. Perhaps you're seeking extra support during a hard time, wanting to enhance your relationship(s), or feeling ready to explore some shadowy areas in your self. Maybe you are facing some existential or spiritual questions, and seeking personal transformation. All of these are vulnerable pursuits, and you want to find a therapist that feels comfortable for you! I'd love to talk with you and see if our connection feels right for the special work ahead of you.
(415) 384-5733 View (415) 384-5733
Photo of Alex Kropf, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94702, CA
Alex Kropf
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702
My passion lies in supporting those of all ages and identity backgrounds who are interested in self exploration and discovery. I practice from a trauma informed, sex-positive, queer affirming, feminist, spiritual and social justice-oriented standpoint. Understanding how the “personal is political” and how psychological challenges are rooted in systemic oppression is central to my work. My experience in sexual/reproductive healthcare and working as a birth and postpartum doula catalyzed my interest in supporting those undergoing vulnerability regarding their sexuality, pain, pleasure, health, gender identity and life transitions.
My passion lies in supporting those of all ages and identity backgrounds who are interested in self exploration and discovery. I practice from a trauma informed, sex-positive, queer affirming, feminist, spiritual and social justice-oriented standpoint. Understanding how the “personal is political” and how psychological challenges are rooted in systemic oppression is central to my work. My experience in sexual/reproductive healthcare and working as a birth and postpartum doula catalyzed my interest in supporting those undergoing vulnerability regarding their sexuality, pain, pleasure, health, gender identity and life transitions.
(657) 500-4665 View (657) 500-4665
Photo of M. Anne Mitchell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94702, CA
M. Anne Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I appreciate working with issues of loss and grief, aging, adjustment to major life changes, the unique issues of rural residents, LGBTQIA+ identified folx and those who love them and people who are brand new to therapy.
Change is a constant in life, while growth is a choice. Some life changes are desired and thrilling, some life changes are unwelcome and painful. The journey into older adulthood brings with it many changes and it’s not unusual to get stuck along the way. Perhaps you are exploring therapy at this time because you feel stuck, dissatisfied, lost or isolated. And maybe you feel ready to set aside time just for you. I’m an engaged and interactive therapist who believes that you have the answers within.
I appreciate working with issues of loss and grief, aging, adjustment to major life changes, the unique issues of rural residents, LGBTQIA+ identified folx and those who love them and people who are brand new to therapy.
Change is a constant in life, while growth is a choice. Some life changes are desired and thrilling, some life changes are unwelcome and painful. The journey into older adulthood brings with it many changes and it’s not unusual to get stuck along the way. Perhaps you are exploring therapy at this time because you feel stuck, dissatisfied, lost or isolated. And maybe you feel ready to set aside time just for you. I’m an engaged and interactive therapist who believes that you have the answers within.
(510) 916-3363 View (510) 916-3363
Photo of Elisa (Lisie) Rosenberg Clark, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94702, CA
Elisa (Lisie) Rosenberg Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702
I'm a direct and empathic therapist. I practice from a neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQ+ celebrating, trauma-informed and intersectional lens to help others feel validated in their unique experiences of the world while also providing them the tools to navigate modern society and relationships with an increased sense of self-compassion and empowerment and decreased sense of shame. I specialize in helping adult women navigate challenges with self esteem and neurodivergence and couples/families of all iterations. I have a collaborative, solution-focused, intuitive therapy style and prioritize building a deep bond with each client.
I'm a direct and empathic therapist. I practice from a neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQ+ celebrating, trauma-informed and intersectional lens to help others feel validated in their unique experiences of the world while also providing them the tools to navigate modern society and relationships with an increased sense of self-compassion and empowerment and decreased sense of shame. I specialize in helping adult women navigate challenges with self esteem and neurodivergence and couples/families of all iterations. I have a collaborative, solution-focused, intuitive therapy style and prioritize building a deep bond with each client.
(510) 588-5928 View (510) 588-5928
Photo of Jace Lawa, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94702, CA
Jace Lawa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702
You feel isolated, misunderstood...lonely. You’ve been told you’re “too much,” “too sensitive,” or “intense.” You feel frozen in profound suffering. You feel that no one has seen the real you and have a sense that there are parts of yourself that maybe you haven’t seen. Hiding yourself has become unbearable, but you don’t know where to start or who to go to for help making sense of your complex inner world and experiences. We can be deeply wounded in relationships, past and current, but it is also in relationships that we find healing.
You feel isolated, misunderstood...lonely. You’ve been told you’re “too much,” “too sensitive,” or “intense.” You feel frozen in profound suffering. You feel that no one has seen the real you and have a sense that there are parts of yourself that maybe you haven’t seen. Hiding yourself has become unbearable, but you don’t know where to start or who to go to for help making sense of your complex inner world and experiences. We can be deeply wounded in relationships, past and current, but it is also in relationships that we find healing.
(510) 288-5363 View (510) 288-5363
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.