Transgender Therapists in Crawford County, AR

Photo of Tara Clifford, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Tara Clifford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m Tara and I work with ALL clients, transgender and non-binary clients as well as clients that are feeling overwhelmed and anxious about work, school, home or friends.
Step out into freedom and embrace the life you were born to live! Is fear running your life? Do you hide the “real you” from family & friends? Discover the courage to be who you truly are! Many people dealing with anxiety, depression and gender and sexuality issues feel they are missing out on life. Clients I work with often report feeling alone and afraid to reach out for help. They no longer want to hide who they are, yet also feel stuck moving forward due to lack of support or fear of judgement. My passion is to help you ditch the shame and find freedom to love the person in the mirror despite the opinions of others.
I’m Tara and I work with ALL clients, transgender and non-binary clients as well as clients that are feeling overwhelmed and anxious about work, school, home or friends.
Step out into freedom and embrace the life you were born to live! Is fear running your life? Do you hide the “real you” from family & friends? Discover the courage to be who you truly are! Many people dealing with anxiety, depression and gender and sexuality issues feel they are missing out on life. Clients I work with often report feeling alone and afraid to reach out for help. They no longer want to hide who they are, yet also feel stuck moving forward due to lack of support or fear of judgement. My passion is to help you ditch the shame and find freedom to love the person in the mirror despite the opinions of others.
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Photo of Ada Floyd, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, EMDR
Ada Floyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD; however, my primary areas of focus are working within the LGBTQIA+ community and with trauma. I have completed training in several modalities to increase my ability to help people navigate through their struggles. I know the value of therapy for trauma due to my own experiences and try to bring compassion and empathy into every session. I use a variety of techniques and tools, such as EMDR, ego state therapy, and CBT to help tailor therapy to each individual client.
I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD; however, my primary areas of focus are working within the LGBTQIA+ community and with trauma. I have completed training in several modalities to increase my ability to help people navigate through their struggles. I know the value of therapy for trauma due to my own experiences and try to bring compassion and empathy into every session. I use a variety of techniques and tools, such as EMDR, ego state therapy, and CBT to help tailor therapy to each individual client.
(479) 323-3152 View (479) 323-3152
Photo of Katelyn Nabors, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT
Katelyn Nabors
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You Deserve a Therapist Who Truly Sees You. Your identity, desires, and relationships are valid. Whether you’re navigating gender identity, sexuality, polyamory, BDSM, or non-traditional relationships, you deserve a therapist who gets it—without judgment, shame, or outdated assumptions. I work with gender identity, transitioning, self-discovery, LGBTQIA+ relationships, polyamory, exploring kink, BDSM & power dynamics in a healthy way. I also enjoy working on healing from shame, sexual trauma & internalized stigma to help you navigating intimacy, pleasure, and body confidence.
You Deserve a Therapist Who Truly Sees You. Your identity, desires, and relationships are valid. Whether you’re navigating gender identity, sexuality, polyamory, BDSM, or non-traditional relationships, you deserve a therapist who gets it—without judgment, shame, or outdated assumptions. I work with gender identity, transitioning, self-discovery, LGBTQIA+ relationships, polyamory, exploring kink, BDSM & power dynamics in a healthy way. I also enjoy working on healing from shame, sexual trauma & internalized stigma to help you navigating intimacy, pleasure, and body confidence.
(479) 322-3959 View (479) 322-3959
Photo of Patricia (Patti) Lashley, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Patricia (Patti) Lashley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I believe we are each on a journey in life and sometimes we need someone willing to walk with us to help us along our path. It is my goal for everyone to feel accepted and to know they are not alone. I believe everyone has the ability and capability to be their best selves. It is my mission to provide a safe and supportive space for my clients so they achieve the best in their lives. I work with adolescences, adults, and single parent, divorced, and blended families. I embrace working with diverse people of every race, ethnicity, sexual orientation,
I believe we are each on a journey in life and sometimes we need someone willing to walk with us to help us along our path. It is my goal for everyone to feel accepted and to know they are not alone. I believe everyone has the ability and capability to be their best selves. It is my mission to provide a safe and supportive space for my clients so they achieve the best in their lives. I work with adolescences, adults, and single parent, divorced, and blended families. I embrace working with diverse people of every race, ethnicity, sexual orientation,
(479) 431-2341 View (479) 431-2341
Photo of Alexandria Kerr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alexandria Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can be a chaotic mess. Especially for adolescents and young adults trying to learn about themselves while navigating environmental pressures. Challenges such as first jobs, new relationships, evaluating potential career paths, and exploring new identities can lead to increases in anxiety, anger, and self- esteem issues.
Life can be a chaotic mess. Especially for adolescents and young adults trying to learn about themselves while navigating environmental pressures. Challenges such as first jobs, new relationships, evaluating potential career paths, and exploring new identities can lead to increases in anxiety, anger, and self- esteem issues.
(479) 239-9230 View (479) 239-9230
Photo of Brittany Gray, Counselor, MS, LAC
Brittany Gray
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with a diverse range of individuals starting at age 6, each navigating their own unique challenges and life circumstances. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, identity, LGBTQ+, relationship struggles, trauma, or simply seeking personal growth, my goal is to empower you to find clarity, healing, and lasting transformation.
I work with a diverse range of individuals starting at age 6, each navigating their own unique challenges and life circumstances. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, identity, LGBTQ+, relationship struggles, trauma, or simply seeking personal growth, my goal is to empower you to find clarity, healing, and lasting transformation.
(479) 425-1127 View (479) 425-1127
Photo of Sheryl L Hollingshead, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Sheryl L Hollingshead
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you’re reading this, maybe you’re ready to find freedom from your past...freedom from the feelings of I’m not good enough. It’s that feeling of “not a good enough mom, friend, student, wife…Just never enough!" These feelings can sneak up on us and color our perception of the world. We can end up spending a lot of time in our heads, mentally beating ourselves up until we learn a new way of seeing the world. That’s where I can help!!
If you’re reading this, maybe you’re ready to find freedom from your past...freedom from the feelings of I’m not good enough. It’s that feeling of “not a good enough mom, friend, student, wife…Just never enough!" These feelings can sneak up on us and color our perception of the world. We can end up spending a lot of time in our heads, mentally beating ourselves up until we learn a new way of seeing the world. That’s where I can help!!
(479) 763-3033 View (479) 763-3033

Online Therapists

Photo of Michelle Sargenti - Homebody Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Homebody Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I treat individuals with a variety of concerns including identity development, gender dysphoria, body kindness, self esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, and LGBTQIA2s+ specific issues.
Hi, I'm Michelle Sargenti and my therapy practice is Homebody Counseling, LLC. I firmly believe that we are all deserving of peace, and my intention is to support you in claiming yours. As a therapist, I aim to show up as my authentic self - someone who will laugh with you, grieve with you, celebrate you, and support you in navigating life’s challenges while providing insight into tools that ease the process.
I treat individuals with a variety of concerns including identity development, gender dysphoria, body kindness, self esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, and LGBTQIA2s+ specific issues.
Hi, I'm Michelle Sargenti and my therapy practice is Homebody Counseling, LLC. I firmly believe that we are all deserving of peace, and my intention is to support you in claiming yours. As a therapist, I aim to show up as my authentic self - someone who will laugh with you, grieve with you, celebrate you, and support you in navigating life’s challenges while providing insight into tools that ease the process.
(503) 994-5643 View (503) 994-5643
Photo of Cathy Campbell, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Cathy Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703
One aspect of my practice is that I work with transgender individuals, both children and adults, and their families.
My approach to counseling is holistic because of the relationships between our minds, emotions, physical bodies, and spirits. Stress and stress management involve all aspects of our being. New research shows the connection between chronic stress in childhood and chronic physical and emotional illness in adults, and mind-body approaches that can help with healing. I also specialize in working with LGBTQ clients and their families. I am challenged and inspired by the difficulties that LGBTQ people face as they embrace their identities. Always, I want to support my clients in becoming their best, most authentic selves.
One aspect of my practice is that I work with transgender individuals, both children and adults, and their families.
My approach to counseling is holistic because of the relationships between our minds, emotions, physical bodies, and spirits. Stress and stress management involve all aspects of our being. New research shows the connection between chronic stress in childhood and chronic physical and emotional illness in adults, and mind-body approaches that can help with healing. I also specialize in working with LGBTQ clients and their families. I am challenged and inspired by the difficulties that LGBTQ people face as they embrace their identities. Always, I want to support my clients in becoming their best, most authentic selves.
(479) 226-8942 View (479) 226-8942
Photo of Bradley Charbonneau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bradley Charbonneau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with a diverse range of clients, including individuals navigating work-related stress, processing grief, coming out, living as a transgender person, or facing challenges with social interactions.
I specialize in individual therapy for adults navigating social anxiety, life transitions, grief, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and stress management. My approach is strengths-based, empowering clients to harness their inner resilience and develop the tools they need to thrive. LCSW. My therapeutic approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused techniques. I meet clients where they are and provide compassionate guidance as we work collaboratively toward their goals.
I work with a diverse range of clients, including individuals navigating work-related stress, processing grief, coming out, living as a transgender person, or facing challenges with social interactions.
I specialize in individual therapy for adults navigating social anxiety, life transitions, grief, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and stress management. My approach is strengths-based, empowering clients to harness their inner resilience and develop the tools they need to thrive. LCSW. My therapeutic approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused techniques. I meet clients where they are and provide compassionate guidance as we work collaboratively toward their goals.
(479) 480-6202 View (479) 480-6202
Photo of Connie Segal, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Connie Segal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arkansas. I believe in a collaborative, person-centered approach to therapy and believe in meeting clients where they are. I understand the importance of a trusting therapeutic relationship and encourage clients to find the right fit when seeking therapy. I am trained in brainspotting and have seen firsthand the healing it can bring. I have experience in treating a variety of issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, and self-esteem among others. I have extensive experience in working with transgender children, adults, and their families.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arkansas. I believe in a collaborative, person-centered approach to therapy and believe in meeting clients where they are. I understand the importance of a trusting therapeutic relationship and encourage clients to find the right fit when seeking therapy. I am trained in brainspotting and have seen firsthand the healing it can bring. I have experience in treating a variety of issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, and self-esteem among others. I have extensive experience in working with transgender children, adults, and their families.
(501) 799-7072 View (501) 799-7072
Photo of Bradley Charbonneau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bradley Charbonneau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with a diverse range of clients, including individuals navigating work-related stress, processing grief, coming out, living as a transgender person, or facing challenges with social interactions.
I specialize in individual therapy for adults navigating social anxiety, life transitions, grief, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and stress management. My approach is strengths-based, empowering clients to harness their inner resilience and develop the tools they need to thrive. LCSW. My therapeutic approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused techniques. I meet clients where they are and provide compassionate guidance as we work collaboratively toward their goals.
I work with a diverse range of clients, including individuals navigating work-related stress, processing grief, coming out, living as a transgender person, or facing challenges with social interactions.
I specialize in individual therapy for adults navigating social anxiety, life transitions, grief, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and stress management. My approach is strengths-based, empowering clients to harness their inner resilience and develop the tools they need to thrive. LCSW. My therapeutic approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused techniques. I meet clients where they are and provide compassionate guidance as we work collaboratively toward their goals.
(870) 729-8173 View (870) 729-8173
Photo of Dr. April Bachrodt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Dr. April Bachrodt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72703
I have many years of experience and training working with clients with severe and persistent mental illness, substance use disorder, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, suicidal thoughts/behaviors, ADHD/Autism, gender dysphoria, and adjustment disorders.
Hello! My name is Dr. B. and I am a licensed certified social worker. I also hold a PhD in Social Work and have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and am a certified Smart Recovery Facilitator. I have received significant training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and enjoy using this modality in both individual and group sessions. I use a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach in my work with clients and provide a safe, comforting, and non-judgmental space for healing and transformation.
I have many years of experience and training working with clients with severe and persistent mental illness, substance use disorder, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, suicidal thoughts/behaviors, ADHD/Autism, gender dysphoria, and adjustment disorders.
Hello! My name is Dr. B. and I am a licensed certified social worker. I also hold a PhD in Social Work and have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and am a certified Smart Recovery Facilitator. I have received significant training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and enjoy using this modality in both individual and group sessions. I use a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach in my work with clients and provide a safe, comforting, and non-judgmental space for healing and transformation.
(479) 397-3621 View (479) 397-3621
Photo of Shelby Freeman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Shelby Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72701
With expertise in trauma recovery, religious, childhood, and relationship abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, and the complexities surrounding transgender experiences, I provide personalized support to help you heal, grow, and thrive.
As a trained EMDR practitioner and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, one of my specialities is working at the intersection of trauma and LGBTQ+ identities. LGBTQ+ folks often have unique, specific experiences that require a knowledgeable and affirming counselor to address. I provide a safe, accepting environment for all LGBTQ+ identities.
With expertise in trauma recovery, religious, childhood, and relationship abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, and the complexities surrounding transgender experiences, I provide personalized support to help you heal, grow, and thrive.
As a trained EMDR practitioner and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, one of my specialities is working at the intersection of trauma and LGBTQ+ identities. LGBTQ+ folks often have unique, specific experiences that require a knowledgeable and affirming counselor to address. I provide a safe, accepting environment for all LGBTQ+ identities.
(479) 326-7803 View (479) 326-7803
Photo of Elizabeth K Stout, Psychologist, PhD
Elizabeth K Stout
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I received additional training in trauma, transgender health, and mindful approaches to treatment of depression & anxiety.
I believe in the power of connection to help individuals move towards their ideal self. I am active in session & work hard to help you feel understood. My practice is rooted in values of compassion, justice, & empowerment. I integrate body liberation and identity affirmation principles into a relational approach. I work well with larger-bodied, queer, or femme-leaning people as well as women. I often work with people who are struggling to navigate relationships, depression/anxiety, and trauma. When you entrust your healing to my care, it is my sincere hope to help you feel seen, accepted, & valued.
I received additional training in trauma, transgender health, and mindful approaches to treatment of depression & anxiety.
I believe in the power of connection to help individuals move towards their ideal self. I am active in session & work hard to help you feel understood. My practice is rooted in values of compassion, justice, & empowerment. I integrate body liberation and identity affirmation principles into a relational approach. I work well with larger-bodied, queer, or femme-leaning people as well as women. I often work with people who are struggling to navigate relationships, depression/anxiety, and trauma. When you entrust your healing to my care, it is my sincere hope to help you feel seen, accepted, & valued.
(978) 991-8795 View (978) 991-8795
Photo of Corinna Dranow, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MFT
Corinna Dranow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Specialty Certificates: EMDR, EFT, IFS, DBT, Trauma (CCTP), Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism, Transgender, Smoking Cessation, Hypnotherapy, Couples Therapy
Welcome to my webpage! I’m a family systems oriented therapist and my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, (such as IFS, DBT, CBT, EMDR) we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Specialty Certificates: EMDR, EFT, IFS, DBT, Trauma (CCTP), Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism, Transgender, Smoking Cessation, Hypnotherapy, Couples Therapy
Welcome to my webpage! I’m a family systems oriented therapist and my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, (such as IFS, DBT, CBT, EMDR) we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(479) 282-0629 View (479) 282-0629
Photo of Bradley Charbonneau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bradley Charbonneau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with a diverse range of clients, including individuals navigating work-related stress, processing grief, coming out, living as a transgender person, or facing challenges with social interactions.
I specialize in individual therapy for adults navigating social anxiety, life transitions, grief, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and stress management. My approach is strengths-based, empowering clients to harness their inner resilience and develop the tools they need to thrive. LCSW. My therapeutic approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused techniques. I meet clients where they are and provide compassionate guidance as we work collaboratively toward their goals.
I work with a diverse range of clients, including individuals navigating work-related stress, processing grief, coming out, living as a transgender person, or facing challenges with social interactions.
I specialize in individual therapy for adults navigating social anxiety, life transitions, grief, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and stress management. My approach is strengths-based, empowering clients to harness their inner resilience and develop the tools they need to thrive. LCSW. My therapeutic approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused techniques. I meet clients where they are and provide compassionate guidance as we work collaboratively toward their goals.
(479) 348-5144 View (479) 348-5144
Photo of Kellye A Gautier, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Kellye A Gautier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Pain pushes us to change, and comes in many forms; depression, anxiety symptoms, feelings of inadequacy, grief, anger, fear, or hopelessness. How we respond to change will ultimately put us on a healing journey, or keep us standing still. As your therapist, I offer you a safe environment to tell your truth, and explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. If you’ve experienced physical/sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, complicated trauma, and/or anger issues, let’s talk! I have worked with children, adolescents and adults. I am a graduate of John Brown University in Siloam Springs, AR with dual licensure.
Pain pushes us to change, and comes in many forms; depression, anxiety symptoms, feelings of inadequacy, grief, anger, fear, or hopelessness. How we respond to change will ultimately put us on a healing journey, or keep us standing still. As your therapist, I offer you a safe environment to tell your truth, and explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. If you’ve experienced physical/sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, complicated trauma, and/or anger issues, let’s talk! I have worked with children, adolescents and adults. I am a graduate of John Brown University in Siloam Springs, AR with dual licensure.
(479) 668-3436 View (479) 668-3436
Photo of Michael John Steinbeck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Michael John Steinbeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72903
Healing and recovery is possible. Change doesn’t come over night so it can seem daunting but in my 18 years of experience I have learned that people mainly want to be heard and validated. I will support Anyone through Anything, Anytime . I have experience working with grief, trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, low self esteem, and mood instability. I value working with all ages, genders, backgrounds, and orientations. As a person centered and solution focused therapist we will begin where you are and move toward mental wellness. EMDR/CBT are effective tools to address concerns.
Healing and recovery is possible. Change doesn’t come over night so it can seem daunting but in my 18 years of experience I have learned that people mainly want to be heard and validated. I will support Anyone through Anything, Anytime . I have experience working with grief, trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, low self esteem, and mood instability. I value working with all ages, genders, backgrounds, and orientations. As a person centered and solution focused therapist we will begin where you are and move toward mental wellness. EMDR/CBT are effective tools to address concerns.
(479) 239-9950 View (479) 239-9950
Photo of Quinn Whiting, Counselor, LAC
Quinn Whiting
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72701
You’re used to figuring things out and getting things done but, right now, something has you stuck. You don’t know how to push back against it. You’ve tried everything you can think of, but nothing really works. It's like the skills that normally serve you well just aren't working on the problem that has you here. You try to make a change, but the changes don't last. The struggle takes a toll on your relationships, your work, and even your health. Meanwhile, you suffer in silence because you worry what others might think of you if you open up.
You’re used to figuring things out and getting things done but, right now, something has you stuck. You don’t know how to push back against it. You’ve tried everything you can think of, but nothing really works. It's like the skills that normally serve you well just aren't working on the problem that has you here. You try to make a change, but the changes don't last. The struggle takes a toll on your relationships, your work, and even your health. Meanwhile, you suffer in silence because you worry what others might think of you if you open up.
(479) 269-1824 View (479) 269-1824

See more therapy options for Crawford County

Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.