Transgender Therapists in Valle Crucis, NC

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Photo of Better Days and Nights, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Valle Crucis, NC
Better Days and Nights, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCSW, LCMHCA, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
We are a group practice, we take many different insurances, and file your claims for you. Our therapists will work with you to help find understanding, a solution or a change for you or your situation. Counseling/Therapy is based on you and your situation alone. Everyone is different and everyone's situation is different, so we will create an individual plan for you and your specific concerns. There is no use of a template or generalized formula. The therapeutic formula we decide on will come from you and your concerns. The counseling experience will be unique to you and your situation.
We are a group practice, we take many different insurances, and file your claims for you. Our therapists will work with you to help find understanding, a solution or a change for you or your situation. Counseling/Therapy is based on you and your situation alone. Everyone is different and everyone's situation is different, so we will create an individual plan for you and your specific concerns. There is no use of a template or generalized formula. The therapeutic formula we decide on will come from you and your concerns. The counseling experience will be unique to you and your situation.
(828) 266-0407 View (828) 266-0407
Photo of Jackie Belhumeur Wayne, Psychological Associate in Valle Crucis, NC
Jackie Belhumeur Wayne
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Waitlist for new clients
If college is the best four years of your life, then why do you feel like this? Stressed and alone. Surrounded by people, but struggling to connect. Wanting love, but tired of the games and swiping. Scared of the real world, and still stuck with that vape habit and yoyo diet from high school. Or maybe you were so excited for parenthood, but not for this. This is so loud and hard and nothing like the pictures online. Life transitions - my favorites being college and parenthood - can shake you up and reveal cracks you never knew were there, but they can also shake you loose from your old habits so you can grow.
If college is the best four years of your life, then why do you feel like this? Stressed and alone. Surrounded by people, but struggling to connect. Wanting love, but tired of the games and swiping. Scared of the real world, and still stuck with that vape habit and yoyo diet from high school. Or maybe you were so excited for parenthood, but not for this. This is so loud and hard and nothing like the pictures online. Life transitions - my favorites being college and parenthood - can shake you up and reveal cracks you never knew were there, but they can also shake you loose from your old habits so you can grow.
(828) 527-0164 View (828) 527-0164
Photo of Kate Fishman, Psychologist in Valle Crucis, NC
Kate Fishman
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP
Verified Verified
Vilas, NC 28692
Hello, and thank you for considering me to be your therapist! I believe that change happens through connection with others, and I approach therapy as a collaborative space to practice building trust and sharing your story. I look forward to getting to know you as an individual, including your strengths, successes, and support systems. My goal is to help you identify aspects of your life that you would like to change and help you to use the strengths you already possess to craft a meaningful, authentic life.
Hello, and thank you for considering me to be your therapist! I believe that change happens through connection with others, and I approach therapy as a collaborative space to practice building trust and sharing your story. I look forward to getting to know you as an individual, including your strengths, successes, and support systems. My goal is to help you identify aspects of your life that you would like to change and help you to use the strengths you already possess to craft a meaningful, authentic life.
(828) 268-3959 View (828) 268-3959
Photo of Peter A Paglen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Valle Crucis, NC
Peter A Paglen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCQS
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have something on your mind? There are times when we all have thoughts running through our minds. Thoughts related to family, friends, relationships, school, love, spirituality, money, work, or happiness. Sometimes they are memories from your past that you're unable to let go. Maybe you can't sleep, maybe you can't eat. Maybe you have lost your purpose, who you are, what you're doing or why. It could be big, or just a small thing you want to let go. These situations can slow you down and pull your life to a stop.
Do you have something on your mind? There are times when we all have thoughts running through our minds. Thoughts related to family, friends, relationships, school, love, spirituality, money, work, or happiness. Sometimes they are memories from your past that you're unable to let go. Maybe you can't sleep, maybe you can't eat. Maybe you have lost your purpose, who you are, what you're doing or why. It could be big, or just a small thing you want to let go. These situations can slow you down and pull your life to a stop.
(828) 457-8331 View (828) 457-8331
Photo of Sophie Rudisill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valle Crucis, NC
Sophie Rudisill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Not accepting new clients
I support individuals and families who are seeking change in their lives, whether this is to find safety and strength in a time of crisis or to delve into the challenging and rewarding process of self-exploration. I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of life-challenges, including childhood trauma, sexual abuse, grief & loss, and LBTGQIA issues. I also have a passion for perinatal mental health and enjoy working with new mothers and parents who may face any number of obstacles in new parenthood, including postpartum depression and anxiety.
I support individuals and families who are seeking change in their lives, whether this is to find safety and strength in a time of crisis or to delve into the challenging and rewarding process of self-exploration. I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of life-challenges, including childhood trauma, sexual abuse, grief & loss, and LBTGQIA issues. I also have a passion for perinatal mental health and enjoy working with new mothers and parents who may face any number of obstacles in new parenthood, including postpartum depression and anxiety.
(919) 626-8762 View (919) 626-8762

Online Therapists

Photo of Daphne Krantz, Counselor in Valle Crucis, NC
Daphne Krantz
Counselor, LCMHCA, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28806  (Online Only)
My passion in life is supporting you to become your most authentic, joyous self. I believe you already have a wellspring of wisdom and clarity within, and I take great pleasure in helping you clear the way to your own inner guidance. As a proud, openly transgender woman, I find fulfillment in working with individuals and couples on transition and identity issues, communication, codependency, relational/cultural/ancestral trauma, gender, sexuality, poly/non-monogamy, depression, addiction, anxiety, psychedelic integration, and spirituality. Perhaps the path isn't quite clear, yet you're ready to take a step towards something better.
My passion in life is supporting you to become your most authentic, joyous self. I believe you already have a wellspring of wisdom and clarity within, and I take great pleasure in helping you clear the way to your own inner guidance. As a proud, openly transgender woman, I find fulfillment in working with individuals and couples on transition and identity issues, communication, codependency, relational/cultural/ancestral trauma, gender, sexuality, poly/non-monogamy, depression, addiction, anxiety, psychedelic integration, and spirituality. Perhaps the path isn't quite clear, yet you're ready to take a step towards something better.
(828) 944-4273 View (828) 944-4273
Photo of Chris E Carson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valle Crucis, NC
Chris E Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychotherapist for adult individuals and couples. Do you want stronger, clearer and healthier relationships? My clients consist mainly of open minded, artistic and unconventional persons wanting more intimacy and connection or wanting to explore their innate gifts and talents. I also work with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and non-binary persons. However, I love working with anyone who is seeking growth, wholeness and perspective.
I am a psychotherapist for adult individuals and couples. Do you want stronger, clearer and healthier relationships? My clients consist mainly of open minded, artistic and unconventional persons wanting more intimacy and connection or wanting to explore their innate gifts and talents. I also work with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and non-binary persons. However, I love working with anyone who is seeking growth, wholeness and perspective.
(804) 651-3941 View (804) 651-3941
Photo of David Stefan Bathory, Psychologist in Valle Crucis, NC
David Stefan Bathory
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
There is a sliding fee scale available for transgender clients due to insurance inequities.
I am a Psychologist/Neuropsychologist who specializes in trauma and gender identity (WPATH member). I practice in a group setting with another clinician. We offer individual individualized psychotherapy, designed to meet your needs using different best practice models of therapy. We provide evaluations for HRT and gender affirming surgeries (usually within 3 sessions). My practice specialties in working with children and adults; Gender, Relational Dynamics, Complex Trauma, & Rare Neuropsychological Disorders I help people across the world to find ways to work together and will help you to move forward in your journey.
There is a sliding fee scale available for transgender clients due to insurance inequities.
I am a Psychologist/Neuropsychologist who specializes in trauma and gender identity (WPATH member). I practice in a group setting with another clinician. We offer individual individualized psychotherapy, designed to meet your needs using different best practice models of therapy. We provide evaluations for HRT and gender affirming surgeries (usually within 3 sessions). My practice specialties in working with children and adults; Gender, Relational Dynamics, Complex Trauma, & Rare Neuropsychological Disorders I help people across the world to find ways to work together and will help you to move forward in your journey.
(908) 444-1524 View (908) 444-1524
Photo of Trey Greene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valle Crucis, NC
Trey Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28215
I am a member of the Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group and an expert in LGBTQ issues.
My top priority is to provide a safe, supportive environment for anyone struggling with their identity, experiences, or beliefs in addition to other mental health concerns. I work with a variety of issues with a focus on PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, trauma, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, relationship difficulties, spirituality and/or religious trauma in addition to other concerns. I am especially passionate about work with anyone seeking a supportive space to heal, discover who they are, or navigate existential concerns, welcoming those of all beliefs in finding connection, hope, and peace.
I am a member of the Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group and an expert in LGBTQ issues.
My top priority is to provide a safe, supportive environment for anyone struggling with their identity, experiences, or beliefs in addition to other mental health concerns. I work with a variety of issues with a focus on PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, trauma, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, relationship difficulties, spirituality and/or religious trauma in addition to other concerns. I am especially passionate about work with anyone seeking a supportive space to heal, discover who they are, or navigate existential concerns, welcoming those of all beliefs in finding connection, hope, and peace.
(704) 419-8509 View (704) 419-8509
Photo of Scarlett Greene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valle Crucis, NC
Scarlett Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28215  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients from various backgrounds, but I have a passion for serving the transgender and queer community.
Thank you for taking the first step in mental health self-care; so tell me, how are you? No really, how are you? If the answer is not great, maybe it’s time to open up an honest dialogue about starting therapy. I'm Scarlett; I am the owner and therapist at Grounded Guidance Counseling, PLLC, where I provide outpatient therapy services to individuals and couples. I strive to meet my clients exactly where they are emotionally in a professional but relatable manner, as I desire to break down barriers that could make therapy feel intimidating for anyone involved.
I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients from various backgrounds, but I have a passion for serving the transgender and queer community.
Thank you for taking the first step in mental health self-care; so tell me, how are you? No really, how are you? If the answer is not great, maybe it’s time to open up an honest dialogue about starting therapy. I'm Scarlett; I am the owner and therapist at Grounded Guidance Counseling, PLLC, where I provide outpatient therapy services to individuals and couples. I strive to meet my clients exactly where they are emotionally in a professional but relatable manner, as I desire to break down barriers that could make therapy feel intimidating for anyone involved.
(919) 726-4787 View (919) 726-4787
Photo of Mark S Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valle Crucis, NC
Mark S Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
For over 30 years I have been helping people overcome life obstacles and interpersonal struggles. Clients report significant benefit when they seek help dealing with transforming ideas of self that result from trauma, relationship changes, chronic illness, grief & loss, gender dysphoria, and coming out as LGBTQ. I utilize a variety of approaches including narrative, DBT, ACT, attachment-focused therapy, internal family systems and trauma informed practices. I now am seeing clients in person as well as virtually.
For over 30 years I have been helping people overcome life obstacles and interpersonal struggles. Clients report significant benefit when they seek help dealing with transforming ideas of self that result from trauma, relationship changes, chronic illness, grief & loss, gender dysphoria, and coming out as LGBTQ. I utilize a variety of approaches including narrative, DBT, ACT, attachment-focused therapy, internal family systems and trauma informed practices. I now am seeing clients in person as well as virtually.
(754) 212-8793 View (754) 212-8793
Photo of Annada Hypes, Psychologist in Valle Crucis, NC
Annada Hypes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Adolescence can be a rocky time for many people, but I believe therapy can be of great help. I work with teenagers and young adults, struggling primarily with mood, identity, and impulse control difficulties. My goals are to help young people build their strengths and relationships in order to find happiness and success as emerging adults. Some of the things I treat are: depression, self-harm, anxiety, family conflict, gender dysphoria, transition to young adulthood stress, and disordered eating habits. Generally I practice cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectal-behavior therapy (DBT) within a caring, humanistic approach.
Adolescence can be a rocky time for many people, but I believe therapy can be of great help. I work with teenagers and young adults, struggling primarily with mood, identity, and impulse control difficulties. My goals are to help young people build their strengths and relationships in order to find happiness and success as emerging adults. Some of the things I treat are: depression, self-harm, anxiety, family conflict, gender dysphoria, transition to young adulthood stress, and disordered eating habits. Generally I practice cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectal-behavior therapy (DBT) within a caring, humanistic approach.
(704) 256-0987 View (704) 256-0987
Photo of Tia Evans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valle Crucis, NC
Tia Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601
I also specialize in working with those who identify as Transgender, through all stages of their journey.
Are you walking through life feeling as though something is missing? Maybe, it's joy, fulfillment, success, career advancement, or even a relationship? Do you try to please others to avoid working on yourself? Is it possible you've tried to fix yourself, but it was just a matter of time before you fell back into your old habits? If you answered yes to any of those you questions you are not alone & you don't have to go through these feelings by yourself any longer. I want to you get the life you desire, the life you deserve. Let me help you get your life back on track TODAY! Please email me to get started on your journey of change.
I also specialize in working with those who identify as Transgender, through all stages of their journey.
Are you walking through life feeling as though something is missing? Maybe, it's joy, fulfillment, success, career advancement, or even a relationship? Do you try to please others to avoid working on yourself? Is it possible you've tried to fix yourself, but it was just a matter of time before you fell back into your old habits? If you answered yes to any of those you questions you are not alone & you don't have to go through these feelings by yourself any longer. I want to you get the life you desire, the life you deserve. Let me help you get your life back on track TODAY! Please email me to get started on your journey of change.
(828) 604-6241 View (828) 604-6241
Photo of Rooted Therapy in Valle Crucis, NC
Rooted Therapy
MA, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
27 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Jen serves as the Clinical Director at Rooted Therapy and 3 years on the Executive Board of the Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group.
Our small group of providers specialize in helping to uncover and empower authentic selves. Trans and Neuro-divergent competent trauma support to sort through what life has thrown your way! It can be overwhelming to sort through alone and often anxiety, depression, gender, relationships, and interpersonal trauma experiences are addressed when the time is right! The space we create together can foster internal communication between the different 'parts' of yourself to heal, grow, thrive, and find peaceful confidence. Explore together in the private safe space we build together or can invite loved ones to join at times.
Jen serves as the Clinical Director at Rooted Therapy and 3 years on the Executive Board of the Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group.
Our small group of providers specialize in helping to uncover and empower authentic selves. Trans and Neuro-divergent competent trauma support to sort through what life has thrown your way! It can be overwhelming to sort through alone and often anxiety, depression, gender, relationships, and interpersonal trauma experiences are addressed when the time is right! The space we create together can foster internal communication between the different 'parts' of yourself to heal, grow, thrive, and find peaceful confidence. Explore together in the private safe space we build together or can invite loved ones to join at times.
(704) 812-5347 View (704) 812-5347
Photo of Rachael Lastoff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Valle Crucis, NC
Rachael Lastoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and am LGBTQIA welcoming and affirming.
Whether you have experienced a recent setback or are trying to come to terms with an ongoing struggle, my goal is to be an unbiased listener providing reflective and direct feedback to help you gain insight and clarity. I am a gender-affirming therapist specializing in working with those in a life transition, struggling with their identity, or looking to evolve from the way they were raised. In couples counseling, I work with monogamous, open/poly, and kink relationships.
I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and am LGBTQIA welcoming and affirming.
Whether you have experienced a recent setback or are trying to come to terms with an ongoing struggle, my goal is to be an unbiased listener providing reflective and direct feedback to help you gain insight and clarity. I am a gender-affirming therapist specializing in working with those in a life transition, struggling with their identity, or looking to evolve from the way they were raised. In couples counseling, I work with monogamous, open/poly, and kink relationships.
(859) 600-6738 View (859) 600-6738
Photo of Beverly (Mecca) L Moss, Counselor in Valle Crucis, NC
Beverly (Mecca) L Moss
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
Moss Counseling Services specializes in the following populations: Transgender, gender non-conforming, Lesbian ,Gay , Sexually aggressive youth, Trauma Focused(CBT), ADHD * Anxiety Disorder * Bipolar Disorder * Compulsive Disorder * Depression * Sexuality Identity * Childhood /adolescent Behavioral concerns, Learning /academic Disabilities * Panic Disorder * schizophrenia * Substance Abuse * Grief and Loss.
"Beginning therapy can be a very difficult decision for one to make. I am so excited that you have taken the first step in this rewarding journey!" My passion and goals are to assist others to experience healing and wholeness in life through management of the symptoms that cause dysfunction in everyday lives. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As an integrated therapist my goal is to help you figure out how to use your own resiliency."
Moss Counseling Services specializes in the following populations: Transgender, gender non-conforming, Lesbian ,Gay , Sexually aggressive youth, Trauma Focused(CBT), ADHD * Anxiety Disorder * Bipolar Disorder * Compulsive Disorder * Depression * Sexuality Identity * Childhood /adolescent Behavioral concerns, Learning /academic Disabilities * Panic Disorder * schizophrenia * Substance Abuse * Grief and Loss.
"Beginning therapy can be a very difficult decision for one to make. I am so excited that you have taken the first step in this rewarding journey!" My passion and goals are to assist others to experience healing and wholeness in life through management of the symptoms that cause dysfunction in everyday lives. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As an integrated therapist my goal is to help you figure out how to use your own resiliency."
(704) 493-8535 View (704) 493-8535
Photo of Katharine Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valle Crucis, NC
Katharine Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601  (Online Only)
Seeking therapy can be difficult, and being here tells me you desire change. Change can be resolving a problem, addressing symptoms or seeking something more. I work as a partner with you to facilitate meaningful life changes. Through innovative and dynamic approaches you will go on a journey into your self, embracing what you can become. We will address fears and barriers that have been holding you back. I have a vast array of clinical knowledge and specialize in areas of depression, LGB issues, transgender issues, chronic illnesses, domestic violence and survivors of trauma.
Seeking therapy can be difficult, and being here tells me you desire change. Change can be resolving a problem, addressing symptoms or seeking something more. I work as a partner with you to facilitate meaningful life changes. Through innovative and dynamic approaches you will go on a journey into your self, embracing what you can become. We will address fears and barriers that have been holding you back. I have a vast array of clinical knowledge and specialize in areas of depression, LGB issues, transgender issues, chronic illnesses, domestic violence and survivors of trauma.
(954) 880-3187 View (954) 880-3187
Photo of Becky Stamler in Valle Crucis, NC
Becky Stamler
MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, with over 13 years of experience. My focus is to provide services to Transgender clients, ages 18-64. My professional training and experiences may assist with issues and concerns related to: your gender transition, WPATH letters, gender identity development, gender dysphoria, gender questioning, Queer, Informed Consent, & sexual orientation. Please do not call at first due to spam issues. Use the "Email Me" link only to let me know what you are seeking from the counseling experience; your insurance/self-pay option; and the best times/days/method to contact you.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, with over 13 years of experience. My focus is to provide services to Transgender clients, ages 18-64. My professional training and experiences may assist with issues and concerns related to: your gender transition, WPATH letters, gender identity development, gender dysphoria, gender questioning, Queer, Informed Consent, & sexual orientation. Please do not call at first due to spam issues. Use the "Email Me" link only to let me know what you are seeking from the counseling experience; your insurance/self-pay option; and the best times/days/method to contact you.
(704) 912-0957 View (704) 912-0957
Photo of Kimberly Lynn Childress, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Valle Crucis, NC
Kimberly Lynn Childress
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina. I have worked successfully with individuals, marriage/relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, transgender, and many other issues and concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina. I have worked successfully with individuals, marriage/relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, transgender, and many other issues and concerns.
(704) 610-2297 View (704) 610-2297
Photo of Celynd Noel Malone, Counselor in Valle Crucis, NC
Celynd Noel Malone
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, TCT, CSAT-C, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I (she/her) work with adults and couples from a variety of backgrounds on all things sex, gender, and religious trauma. Issues include including gender diversity and transgender care, sexual health, sex addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, grief and loss, and issues of specific concern to the LGBTQIA+, kink, and polyamory communities. I also have experience working with religious trauma. My ideal client is ready to do the deep work, because we're going to dive right in!
I (she/her) work with adults and couples from a variety of backgrounds on all things sex, gender, and religious trauma. Issues include including gender diversity and transgender care, sexual health, sex addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, grief and loss, and issues of specific concern to the LGBTQIA+, kink, and polyamory communities. I also have experience working with religious trauma. My ideal client is ready to do the deep work, because we're going to dive right in!
(919) 694-4293 View (919) 694-4293
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.