LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Fair Oaks, CA

Photo of Jason Markel, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Jason Markel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
As an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, I provide a warm, accepting space where your identity and experiences are fully honored.
Accepting New Clients – Insurance Welcome. Healing is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re carrying the weight of past trauma, self-doubt, or emotional pain, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. Maybe you’re exploring your identity, questioning your worth, or longing for deeper, more meaningful connections. These struggles can make it hard to move forward, but you deserve support. In a safe, affirming space, you can build confidence, set boundaries, and create relationships that reflect your values. Together, we’ll honor your experiences, work toward healing, growth, and embracing your authentic self.
As an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, I provide a warm, accepting space where your identity and experiences are fully honored.
Accepting New Clients – Insurance Welcome. Healing is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re carrying the weight of past trauma, self-doubt, or emotional pain, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. Maybe you’re exploring your identity, questioning your worth, or longing for deeper, more meaningful connections. These struggles can make it hard to move forward, but you deserve support. In a safe, affirming space, you can build confidence, set boundaries, and create relationships that reflect your values. Together, we’ll honor your experiences, work toward healing, growth, and embracing your authentic self.
(916) 299-8927 View (916) 299-8927
Photo of Jason Markel, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Jason Markel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
Being part of the LGBTQIA+ community can be a challenging path to walk.
Additionally, I work with partners/couples/triads in non-conforming/non-traditional relationships, whether that's polyamory, open relationship, swinging, or something else. My goal as a therapist is to help you embrace whatever challenging aspect of identity/life you face, or someone you love is navigating.
Being part of the LGBTQIA+ community can be a challenging path to walk.
Additionally, I work with partners/couples/triads in non-conforming/non-traditional relationships, whether that's polyamory, open relationship, swinging, or something else. My goal as a therapist is to help you embrace whatever challenging aspect of identity/life you face, or someone you love is navigating.
(415) 943-1094 View (415) 943-1094
Photo of Amy Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Amy Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ally to the LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC communities, Neurodivergence affirming, Anti-Diet/Health at Every Size/Body neutrality aligned.
Hello and welcome! I'm thrilled to be considered as part of your well-being journey. I'm a LCSW with over 4 years of experience providing therapy services and would be happy to support your therapy goals. Therapy can be effective and beneficial without being stuffy or overly clinical!
Ally to the LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC communities, Neurodivergence affirming, Anti-Diet/Health at Every Size/Body neutrality aligned.
Hello and welcome! I'm thrilled to be considered as part of your well-being journey. I'm a LCSW with over 4 years of experience providing therapy services and would be happy to support your therapy goals. Therapy can be effective and beneficial without being stuffy or overly clinical!
(279) 465-0475 View (279) 465-0475
Photo of Ryan Parino, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Ryan Parino
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
Although I have experience, education, and training in psychology, you will always be the expert on “you”. I approach therapy as a collaboration where we unite as a team to hold space for, explore, and honor some of the most important aspects of your life. I look forward to building a unique approach to therapy with each client that values you as the other half of our team, and I recognize that what might work for one person may not be the best way to collaborate with you.
Although I have experience, education, and training in psychology, you will always be the expert on “you”. I approach therapy as a collaboration where we unite as a team to hold space for, explore, and honor some of the most important aspects of your life. I look forward to building a unique approach to therapy with each client that values you as the other half of our team, and I recognize that what might work for one person may not be the best way to collaborate with you.
(916) 794-9410 View (916) 794-9410
Photo of Julie Grande-Strathdee - Transparent Talk Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Transparent Talk Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
We see folks looking for LGBTQ+ affirming therapy, and non-binary and transgender affirming care.
You’re overwhelmed, overstimulated, and searching for relief, and quite frankly, getting pretty desperate. That "best life" others seem to live feels just beyond reach, with a little progress one day, then sliding all the way back to where you started. It’s exhausting. You logically know you’ve overcome so much, but where is that strength everyone says you have? Together, we can foster compassion for the coping skills you’ve used to survive. These strategies deserve acknowledgment and appreciation because they have kept you alive.
We see folks looking for LGBTQ+ affirming therapy, and non-binary and transgender affirming care.
You’re overwhelmed, overstimulated, and searching for relief, and quite frankly, getting pretty desperate. That "best life" others seem to live feels just beyond reach, with a little progress one day, then sliding all the way back to where you started. It’s exhausting. You logically know you’ve overcome so much, but where is that strength everyone says you have? Together, we can foster compassion for the coping skills you’ve used to survive. These strategies deserve acknowledgment and appreciation because they have kept you alive.
(916) 545-2012 View (916) 545-2012
Photo of Tom White, Associate Clinical Social Worker, SUDCC, ASW, LCSW
Tom White
Associate Clinical Social Worker, SUDCC, ASW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you're dealing with overwhelming anxiety, pain from strained or broken relationships, or maybe stress in your home or work life, I would love the opportunity to help you find lasting peace, comfort, and real joy in your daily life. I'll ensure you are heard and understood, right where you are, without judgment. Then, we'll collaborate to set and achieve goals YOU want. Whether that's help with emotional turmoil, failed relationships, depression, or any of a dozen other problems. We will use the best evidence-based practices, mixed with humor, kindness, and gentle encouragement to help you find lost joy, wonder, and happiness.
If you're dealing with overwhelming anxiety, pain from strained or broken relationships, or maybe stress in your home or work life, I would love the opportunity to help you find lasting peace, comfort, and real joy in your daily life. I'll ensure you are heard and understood, right where you are, without judgment. Then, we'll collaborate to set and achieve goals YOU want. Whether that's help with emotional turmoil, failed relationships, depression, or any of a dozen other problems. We will use the best evidence-based practices, mixed with humor, kindness, and gentle encouragement to help you find lost joy, wonder, and happiness.
(916) 435-6112 View (916) 435-6112
Photo of Karen Sackheim - Karen Sackheim , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karen Sackheim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Pain of any kind – physical, mental, emotional – will wear you down. Even the strongest woman in the world will reach a breaking point. You’re here because you understand that, and it’s getting harder to hold it all together. Maybe it started with a diagnosis or a significant change in your life. Or maybe it stems from trauma you’ve been carrying quietly for years. No matter how or where it started, it’s keeping you from living fully. Anxiety lingers, energy is low, and joy feels distant. What’s even worse is the world sometimes intimates that it’s “all in your head,” leaving you feeling unseen, disconnected, and ashamed.
Pain of any kind – physical, mental, emotional – will wear you down. Even the strongest woman in the world will reach a breaking point. You’re here because you understand that, and it’s getting harder to hold it all together. Maybe it started with a diagnosis or a significant change in your life. Or maybe it stems from trauma you’ve been carrying quietly for years. No matter how or where it started, it’s keeping you from living fully. Anxiety lingers, energy is low, and joy feels distant. What’s even worse is the world sometimes intimates that it’s “all in your head,” leaving you feeling unseen, disconnected, and ashamed.
(916) 926-0662 View (916) 926-0662
Photo of Janet Bedolla, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Janet Bedolla
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
You seem to have it together, keeping up with work and life, and getting by. In the inside, however, you might feel anxious, distracted, overwhelmed, and exhausted. Your go to strategies to get by may not be helping like they used. It may be too much right now, but you do not have to face this on your own. I am here to help.
You seem to have it together, keeping up with work and life, and getting by. In the inside, however, you might feel anxious, distracted, overwhelmed, and exhausted. Your go to strategies to get by may not be helping like they used. It may be too much right now, but you do not have to face this on your own. I am here to help.
(916) 884-6506 View (916) 884-6506
Photo of Jacob Simon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MPA, AMFT
Jacob Simon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MPA, AMFT
6 Endorsed
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
I would be honored to offer a safe, non-judgmental space for you to express and explore yourself, which includes a commitment to providing LGBTQ+ affirming therapy.
I became a therapist because I want to support people as they work to become their truest selves. Change and growth are possible for everyone, no matter what the circumstances are. You are not alone, and there is nothing wrong with you. Whether you have experienced trauma, as many of us have, or whether you simply want to better understand yourself, therapy is an effective tool to get where you want to go.
I would be honored to offer a safe, non-judgmental space for you to express and explore yourself, which includes a commitment to providing LGBTQ+ affirming therapy.
I became a therapist because I want to support people as they work to become their truest selves. Change and growth are possible for everyone, no matter what the circumstances are. You are not alone, and there is nothing wrong with you. Whether you have experienced trauma, as many of us have, or whether you simply want to better understand yourself, therapy is an effective tool to get where you want to go.
(916) 975-8812 View (916) 975-8812
Photo of Marcos Lumbang, Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Marcos Lumbang
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
I work with individual and couples who are interested in their personal growth and improving their relationships. As a clinician I am interested in helping clients work through issues related to identity, purpose, obsessive compulsive behaviors, neurodivergence, and spirituality. My professional background includes working with the disability population as a vocational coach for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities, supporting them with the employment process and teaching them basic life skills.
I work with individual and couples who are interested in their personal growth and improving their relationships. As a clinician I am interested in helping clients work through issues related to identity, purpose, obsessive compulsive behaviors, neurodivergence, and spirituality. My professional background includes working with the disability population as a vocational coach for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities, supporting them with the employment process and teaching them basic life skills.
(916) 775-7327 View (916) 775-7327
Photo of Paul Singh, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Paul Singh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
2 Endorsed
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
When it comes to our mental health and our relationships, often we believe that it is better to say nothing and go with the flow. That enduring through difficult times and biting the bullet is better than using our voices to disrupt the cycle of dysfunction around us. Using our voice can be incredibly difficult and at times feel so awkward because we have become used to suffocating our emotions. It is okay to have feelings. It is okay to want change. The true measure of strength is not our ability to endure dysfunction but having the courage to stand up and say, “It stops here.” I can help.
When it comes to our mental health and our relationships, often we believe that it is better to say nothing and go with the flow. That enduring through difficult times and biting the bullet is better than using our voices to disrupt the cycle of dysfunction around us. Using our voice can be incredibly difficult and at times feel so awkward because we have become used to suffocating our emotions. It is okay to have feelings. It is okay to want change. The true measure of strength is not our ability to endure dysfunction but having the courage to stand up and say, “It stops here.” I can help.
(916) 354-6518 View (916) 354-6518
Photo of Samantha Heim, Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Samantha Heim
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide a trauma-informed, LGBTQ allied, and neurodivergence-affirming therapeutic space.
When you have ADHD or another form of neurodivergence, it feels like the world wasn’t built for you. You do your best, but you struggle to stay organized, meet expectations, and feel fully understood. It’s overwhelming when you always feel “behind” in life. No matter how hard you try – or what “tools and tricks” you use to fit in and get by – you’re always doubting yourself. It might be because you’re carrying hidden wounds, but you’re not sure. All you know is relationships are confusing, your emotions are intense, and you’re exhausted from trying to “hold it all together.” It’s lonely living in a world that doesn’t understand you.
I provide a trauma-informed, LGBTQ allied, and neurodivergence-affirming therapeutic space.
When you have ADHD or another form of neurodivergence, it feels like the world wasn’t built for you. You do your best, but you struggle to stay organized, meet expectations, and feel fully understood. It’s overwhelming when you always feel “behind” in life. No matter how hard you try – or what “tools and tricks” you use to fit in and get by – you’re always doubting yourself. It might be because you’re carrying hidden wounds, but you’re not sure. All you know is relationships are confusing, your emotions are intense, and you’re exhausted from trying to “hold it all together.” It’s lonely living in a world that doesn’t understand you.
(916) 656-0087 View (916) 656-0087
Photo of Jamie Johnson, Counselor, MS, LPCC
Jamie Johnson
Counselor, MS, LPCC
3 Endorsed
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
Very few people know what is really going on in your life and just how stuck you feel. It has gotten to the point where you no longer recognize yourself and have no idea how you got here. Maybe you feel like everything in your life, including yourself is out of control or that getting out of bed takes all your energy before your day has even started. Maybe you are flooded with unwanted memories from the past and you have turned to drugs or alcohol to cope. You’re exhausted and know that life cannot continue like this anymore. You are looking for a change, and are searching for support. I can help!
Very few people know what is really going on in your life and just how stuck you feel. It has gotten to the point where you no longer recognize yourself and have no idea how you got here. Maybe you feel like everything in your life, including yourself is out of control or that getting out of bed takes all your energy before your day has even started. Maybe you are flooded with unwanted memories from the past and you have turned to drugs or alcohol to cope. You’re exhausted and know that life cannot continue like this anymore. You are looking for a change, and are searching for support. I can help!
(916) 252-5659 View (916) 252-5659
Photo of Lauren Mahakian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lauren Mahakian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
You’re finding it more and more difficult to hold it all together. After pushing down your emotions and "going along with things" for so long, there is all of a sudden very little space to hold anything else. It’s hard to concentrate, you’re irritable, your body aches. There are times when you feel you could jump out of your skin from the racing thoughts, and there are times where you want to crawl under a rock to escape the overwhelm. What has always worked in the past is not even touching these feelings.
You’re finding it more and more difficult to hold it all together. After pushing down your emotions and "going along with things" for so long, there is all of a sudden very little space to hold anything else. It’s hard to concentrate, you’re irritable, your body aches. There are times when you feel you could jump out of your skin from the racing thoughts, and there are times where you want to crawl under a rock to escape the overwhelm. What has always worked in the past is not even touching these feelings.
(916) 545-1388 View (916) 545-1388
Photo of Nicole Greenwood, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RYT200
Nicole Greenwood
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RYT200
6 Endorsed
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a diverse clientele, including individuals from POC and LGBTQ+ communities, as well as those who have experienced relational trauma, childhood emotional neglect, or adverse childhood experiences.
My aim is to provide therapy that offers consistency, allowing ample time to build on behavioral changes and process experiences. We work collaboratively to identify maladaptive behavioral patterns (unwanted behaviors) that have developed in response to a history of trauma, relational trauma, exposure to traumatic events, or any form of perceived harm.
I work with a diverse clientele, including individuals from POC and LGBTQ+ communities, as well as those who have experienced relational trauma, childhood emotional neglect, or adverse childhood experiences.
My aim is to provide therapy that offers consistency, allowing ample time to build on behavioral changes and process experiences. We work collaboratively to identify maladaptive behavioral patterns (unwanted behaviors) that have developed in response to a history of trauma, relational trauma, exposure to traumatic events, or any form of perceived harm.
(530) 212-7057 View (530) 212-7057
Photo of Dr. Andrea Bruce, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Andrea Bruce
Psychologist, PhD
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
I provide therapy and psychological testing services. I move from a person-centered and strengths-based approach, working with individuals who might be experiencing: anxiety, depression, ADHD/ neurodivergence/ ASD, sensory processing differences, trauma/PTSD, grief, academic struggles, communication issues, and relationship difficulties. Additionally, I provide supportive integrative health coaching as a part of psychological services, for those who experience chronic physical conditions that can interrupt or impact quality of life (ie: chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, diabetes, etc).
I provide therapy and psychological testing services. I move from a person-centered and strengths-based approach, working with individuals who might be experiencing: anxiety, depression, ADHD/ neurodivergence/ ASD, sensory processing differences, trauma/PTSD, grief, academic struggles, communication issues, and relationship difficulties. Additionally, I provide supportive integrative health coaching as a part of psychological services, for those who experience chronic physical conditions that can interrupt or impact quality of life (ie: chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, diabetes, etc).
(916) 347-4234 View (916) 347-4234
Photo of Isaac Smith - Whole Wellness Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Whole Wellness Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
Things look pretty good from the other side of the street. Most see you as “having it altogether.” After all, you’re the driven, reliable one everyone turns to. But underneath, you feel disconnected, numb and alone. Sure, you can pull it together when you need to, and the drugs and alcohol help, but you know this cycle can’t last. To top it all off, you feel guilty you can’t be everything, to everyone, all the time. You know it’s time to make a change.
Things look pretty good from the other side of the street. Most see you as “having it altogether.” After all, you’re the driven, reliable one everyone turns to. But underneath, you feel disconnected, numb and alone. Sure, you can pull it together when you need to, and the drugs and alcohol help, but you know this cycle can’t last. To top it all off, you feel guilty you can’t be everything, to everyone, all the time. You know it’s time to make a change.
(916) 633-7801 View (916) 633-7801
Photo of Kyle Wiesenthal, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Kyle Wiesenthal
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
I know that it can be hard to take steps forward in addressing your struggles but any time that you decide to prioritize your needs is time well spent – even if you don’t know what it is that you need all the time. That’s where I come in! You and I can work together to help explore the depths of your past, the potential difficulties of your present and revitalize your hope for a better future. Whether you and I work together, or you decide to go another way, if anyone hasn’t said it today, I’m proud of you!
I know that it can be hard to take steps forward in addressing your struggles but any time that you decide to prioritize your needs is time well spent – even if you don’t know what it is that you need all the time. That’s where I come in! You and I can work together to help explore the depths of your past, the potential difficulties of your present and revitalize your hope for a better future. Whether you and I work together, or you decide to go another way, if anyone hasn’t said it today, I’m proud of you!
(916) 409-7434 View (916) 409-7434
Photo of Julie Tucker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Julie Tucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Julie Tucker, LCSW I offer a compassionate and professional approach to helping clients overcome emotional distress and find peace of mind. My therapeutic approach is client centered. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, focusing on your specific concerns and needs. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, and women's issues, I am passionate about supporting individuals in overcoming obstacles and building resilience. With a strengths-based model and trauma-informed approach, I offer holistic and integrated therapy to help clients cultivate self-awareness, compassion, and emotional wellness.
Julie Tucker, LCSW I offer a compassionate and professional approach to helping clients overcome emotional distress and find peace of mind. My therapeutic approach is client centered. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, focusing on your specific concerns and needs. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, and women's issues, I am passionate about supporting individuals in overcoming obstacles and building resilience. With a strengths-based model and trauma-informed approach, I offer holistic and integrated therapy to help clients cultivate self-awareness, compassion, and emotional wellness.
(650) 525-2750 View (650) 525-2750
Photo of Mary Guzik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Mary Guzik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
Do you need help with your relationship? Are you wondering what to do next? Do you love someone, but don't like him/her right now? Well, I am here to help. I specialize in relationship issues. As an experienced licensed therapist, I can work with you to identify the problem areas in your relationship(s). Together, we can create a plan for change, develop new skills for a stronger connection, and create healthier interactions in your relationship(s). Yes, I know counseling can be costly. However, therapy is an investment. The investment is in improving your emotional well-being.
Do you need help with your relationship? Are you wondering what to do next? Do you love someone, but don't like him/her right now? Well, I am here to help. I specialize in relationship issues. As an experienced licensed therapist, I can work with you to identify the problem areas in your relationship(s). Together, we can create a plan for change, develop new skills for a stronger connection, and create healthier interactions in your relationship(s). Yes, I know counseling can be costly. However, therapy is an investment. The investment is in improving your emotional well-being.
(916) 512-6381 View (916) 512-6381

See more therapy options for Fair Oaks

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.