Transgender Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Jacob Wangel-Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacob Wangel-Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a trans, queer psychotherapist and World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Certified Member. I’m dedicated to providing safe, therapeutic space for transgender, queer, and questioning clients. As a dual-state licensed clinician in California and New York, my clinical practice, Transcendent Identity Therapy serves to fill a critical need in creating competent, affirming, accessible care for our community and offers a warm environment to explore, process, and repair relationships within the self and with others. We’ll explore how your lived experience impacts your internal and external worlds.
I’m a trans, queer psychotherapist and World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Certified Member. I’m dedicated to providing safe, therapeutic space for transgender, queer, and questioning clients. As a dual-state licensed clinician in California and New York, my clinical practice, Transcendent Identity Therapy serves to fill a critical need in creating competent, affirming, accessible care for our community and offers a warm environment to explore, process, and repair relationships within the self and with others. We’ll explore how your lived experience impacts your internal and external worlds.
(818) 431-2297 View (818) 431-2297
Photo of Arthur Sun, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Arthur Sun
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
As queer, transgender, 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, transgender, 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 Ezak Marquez, LPCC, Counselor
Ezak Marquez
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
(619) 329-9950 View (619) 329-9950
Photo of Jordyn Serwin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jordyn Serwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a queer and transgender person myself, supporting other LGBTQ+ folks is my personal and professional passion.
We all deserve to feel seen, included, and understood, no matter who we are. As a LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, my aim is to help you better see yourself in all aspects of who you are, feel more included in relation to those around you, and experience a greater understanding of how you fit into a wider world. Maybe you’re exploring your non-binary gender for the first time. Maybe you’re supporting a transgender family member or partner. Maybe you’re working through relationship challenges as an LGBTQ+ person. Together, we can explore what “seen,” “included,” and “understood” mean for you and how you can achieve them.
As a queer and transgender person myself, supporting other LGBTQ+ folks is my personal and professional passion.
We all deserve to feel seen, included, and understood, no matter who we are. As a LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, my aim is to help you better see yourself in all aspects of who you are, feel more included in relation to those around you, and experience a greater understanding of how you fit into a wider world. Maybe you’re exploring your non-binary gender for the first time. Maybe you’re supporting a transgender family member or partner. Maybe you’re working through relationship challenges as an LGBTQ+ person. Together, we can explore what “seen,” “included,” and “understood” mean for you and how you can achieve them.
(818) 938-8213 View (818) 938-8213
Photo of Lou Bigelow, PhD
Lou Bigelow
Registered Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
As a transgender man myself, I know the importance of working toward acceptance internally to manifest it externally.
I work with gender diverse, LGBTQ+ people, and others who struggle with social anxiety, supporting you to create satisfying relationships and experience life with greater confidence and belonging. In a world without adequate role models or people who mirror our self-expression, we often feel like we don’t fit in, we’re not enough, or we’re too much. Anxious thoughts about lack of acceptance can be overwhelming and isolating. Therapy with me offers space to realign with your deepest self and who you want to be in your relationships. I will work collaboratively with you to understand your challenges and connect to the wisdom within.
As a transgender man myself, I know the importance of working toward acceptance internally to manifest it externally.
I work with gender diverse, LGBTQ+ people, and others who struggle with social anxiety, supporting you to create satisfying relationships and experience life with greater confidence and belonging. In a world without adequate role models or people who mirror our self-expression, we often feel like we don’t fit in, we’re not enough, or we’re too much. Anxious thoughts about lack of acceptance can be overwhelming and isolating. Therapy with me offers space to realign with your deepest self and who you want to be in your relationships. I will work collaboratively with you to understand your challenges and connect to the wisdom within.
(213) 973-8386 View (213) 973-8386
Photo of Melissa Burroughs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Burroughs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a queer-affirmative therapist, I specialize in helping individuals heal from trauma, and navigate life's challenges in a compassionate, inclusive space. I understand the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and am committed to offering a supportive environment where you can feel safe, seen, and validated. My client-centered, evidence-based approach is tailored to address the effects of trauma, whether related to gender dysphoria, discrimination, anxiety, or past experiences of adversity and emotional pain.
As a queer-affirmative therapist, I specialize in helping individuals heal from trauma, and navigate life's challenges in a compassionate, inclusive space. I understand the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and am committed to offering a supportive environment where you can feel safe, seen, and validated. My client-centered, evidence-based approach is tailored to address the effects of trauma, whether related to gender dysphoria, discrimination, anxiety, or past experiences of adversity and emotional pain.
(661) 990-9385 View (661) 990-9385
Photo of Ezak Marquez, LPCC
Ezak Marquez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
(424) 361-6256 View (424) 361-6256
Photo of Robyn Harrod, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Harrod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Another specialized focus of mine is providing therapy and support to transgender and non-binary children, adolescents, and adults during any part(s) of their transition.
I have been a practicing LCSW in Los Angeles for close to 30 years. My expertise is in infertility and reproductive counseling and in the field of family building. My goal is to help individuals and couples cope with the challenges of infertility and explore alternative family building options including surrogacy, egg, sperm, or embryo donation, foster care, & adoption. The decision to start your family through alternative means can be one of the most challenging, as well as rewarding experiences in your life. With personal and professional experience, I provide support and compassion, calming the journey's inevitable stresses.
Another specialized focus of mine is providing therapy and support to transgender and non-binary children, adolescents, and adults during any part(s) of their transition.
I have been a practicing LCSW in Los Angeles for close to 30 years. My expertise is in infertility and reproductive counseling and in the field of family building. My goal is to help individuals and couples cope with the challenges of infertility and explore alternative family building options including surrogacy, egg, sperm, or embryo donation, foster care, & adoption. The decision to start your family through alternative means can be one of the most challenging, as well as rewarding experiences in your life. With personal and professional experience, I provide support and compassion, calming the journey's inevitable stresses.
(213) 699-4550 View (213) 699-4550
Photo of Tricia Kayiatos-Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tricia Kayiatos-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90038
I hold a Master's degree in Social Work from Hunter College in New York City where I advocated for transgender women of color engaged in survival sex work.
Therapy can be a transformative experience of acknowledging Self and finding a higher level of functioning. The relationship between therapist and client facilitates gentle and foundational changes aiming to discard dysfunctional coping skills and to acquire healthier tools for living. I intend to create an accepting and nonjudgmental space and connect with my clients through compassion, empathy and unconditional positive regard. I understand and cherish the intimacy and honor that is my role in my clients' lives.
I hold a Master's degree in Social Work from Hunter College in New York City where I advocated for transgender women of color engaged in survival sex work.
Therapy can be a transformative experience of acknowledging Self and finding a higher level of functioning. The relationship between therapist and client facilitates gentle and foundational changes aiming to discard dysfunctional coping skills and to acquire healthier tools for living. I intend to create an accepting and nonjudgmental space and connect with my clients through compassion, empathy and unconditional positive regard. I understand and cherish the intimacy and honor that is my role in my clients' lives.
(323) 831-7107 View (323) 831-7107
Photo of Sarah McGrew, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah McGrew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I've worked extensively with non-binary, transgender and gender expansive folks in navigating stressors they may experience in today's world.
You are the expert on your life and I believe that therapy is most helpful when it provides a safe space for you to be vulnerable and gain insight into what is not working for you and how to change it. I am transparent and warm and will approach you with compassion, humor, and openness. I'm an expert in trauma treatment with over 10 years working with people in all stages of the life cycle who have experienced traumatic events as well as anxiety, depression, anger, interpersonal and relational issues, life transitions, and parent-child and family conflict. I also love working with parents to provide coaching.
I've worked extensively with non-binary, transgender and gender expansive folks in navigating stressors they may experience in today's world.
You are the expert on your life and I believe that therapy is most helpful when it provides a safe space for you to be vulnerable and gain insight into what is not working for you and how to change it. I am transparent and warm and will approach you with compassion, humor, and openness. I'm an expert in trauma treatment with over 10 years working with people in all stages of the life cycle who have experienced traumatic events as well as anxiety, depression, anger, interpersonal and relational issues, life transitions, and parent-child and family conflict. I also love working with parents to provide coaching.
(310) 818-7156 View (310) 818-7156
Photo of Dr. Luke Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Luke Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
(341) 895-5594 View (341) 895-5594
Photo of Kattie Bachar, BFA, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kattie Bachar
Marriage & Family Therapist, BFA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in providing LGBTQIA2S+ competent psychotherapy, with a focus on transgender adolescents, adults, and the families/friends that love them.
I'm glad you're here! My work is firmly rooted in existential humanism, meaning the search for meaning and self-realization is central to our work together. I believe you are the expert on you and your experience and it is my great honor to walk with you on your path. The relationship we will build collaboratively in session will aid you on your healing journey. I am skilled at creating a non-judgmental environment and accepting you where you are, no matter where that is, as we work to shine a light on what once seemed too dark to face.
I specialize in providing LGBTQIA2S+ competent psychotherapy, with a focus on transgender adolescents, adults, and the families/friends that love them.
I'm glad you're here! My work is firmly rooted in existential humanism, meaning the search for meaning and self-realization is central to our work together. I believe you are the expert on you and your experience and it is my great honor to walk with you on your path. The relationship we will build collaboratively in session will aid you on your healing journey. I am skilled at creating a non-judgmental environment and accepting you where you are, no matter where that is, as we work to shine a light on what once seemed too dark to face.
(805) 219-7873 View (805) 219-7873
Photo of Casey Weitzman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Casey Weitzman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
At Gender Wellness of Los Angeles, I provide counseling for the transgender & non-binary community and their families.
Welcome to Gender Wellness of Los Angeles, where I've dedicated 30 years supporting individuals navigating the complexities of gender and sexual identity. Our world has expanded to include a beautiful spectrum of gender-diverse experiences. I choose to embrace a holistic approach that goes beyond traditional binaries of Male-to-Female (MtF) and Female-to-Male (FtM) transitions. Whether you resonate with terms like "trans," "non-binary," or use your own unique identifier, I'm here to walk alongside you. Everyone's path is unique, and self-acceptance is the compass guiding us forward.
At Gender Wellness of Los Angeles, I provide counseling for the transgender & non-binary community and their families.
Welcome to Gender Wellness of Los Angeles, where I've dedicated 30 years supporting individuals navigating the complexities of gender and sexual identity. Our world has expanded to include a beautiful spectrum of gender-diverse experiences. I choose to embrace a holistic approach that goes beyond traditional binaries of Male-to-Female (MtF) and Female-to-Male (FtM) transitions. Whether you resonate with terms like "trans," "non-binary," or use your own unique identifier, I'm here to walk alongside you. Everyone's path is unique, and self-acceptance is the compass guiding us forward.
(310) 895-9205 View (310) 895-9205
Photo of Jen Leong, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jen Leong
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I see clients throughout California via video sessions. Most of the people I work with are told they need to be different than they are. Sometimes they get that message explicitly, always they get that message in the way people treat them. Therapy with me doesn’t aim to make you different. We’ll work to help you navigate the world while being healthy and fully you. Specific issues my clients are navigating include: being neurodivergent (mostly autistic and ADHD), being transgender or outside the gender binary, being non-monogamous, or being deep in grief.
I see clients throughout California via video sessions. Most of the people I work with are told they need to be different than they are. Sometimes they get that message explicitly, always they get that message in the way people treat them. Therapy with me doesn’t aim to make you different. We’ll work to help you navigate the world while being healthy and fully you. Specific issues my clients are navigating include: being neurodivergent (mostly autistic and ADHD), being transgender or outside the gender binary, being non-monogamous, or being deep in grief.
(424) 361-1015 View (424) 361-1015
Photo of Julia M Schwab, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia M Schwab
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
As a therapist who warmly welcomes and affirms the LGBTQIA+ community, I specialize in supporting transgender, gender non-conforming, genderqueer individuals, as well as those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, or questioning. I understand that starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. My approach is warm, empathetic, and fully engaged. Together, we’ll identify and address the obstacles and patterns holding you back, working toward a life that feels authentic, empowering, and fulfilling.
As a therapist who warmly welcomes and affirms the LGBTQIA+ community, I specialize in supporting transgender, gender non-conforming, genderqueer individuals, as well as those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, or questioning. I understand that starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. My approach is warm, empathetic, and fully engaged. Together, we’ll identify and address the obstacles and patterns holding you back, working toward a life that feels authentic, empowering, and fulfilling.
(818) 696-4514 View (818) 696-4514
Photo of Kimberly Dawn Kabar, LMFT, EMDR, KAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Dawn Kabar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, KAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, feelings of inadequacy, the need to “perform” (whether socially, academically, professionally or within intimate relationships), mistrust of others, suicidal ideation and/or the pain of unresolved traumas, including identity rejection trauma, I can help.
I specialize in gender dysphoria, anxiety and trauma. Our journey together is about healing past wounds & shedding the negative beliefs that are keeping you stuck & away from the joy that is your innate right to experience. The struggle to lesson anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria and/or the pain of past traumas has led many of my clients to self-sooth through a variety of ways including eating, smoking, drinking, gaming, & toxic relationships. Through therapy, including EMDR and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, my clients not only get unstuck, they soar.
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, feelings of inadequacy, the need to “perform” (whether socially, academically, professionally or within intimate relationships), mistrust of others, suicidal ideation and/or the pain of unresolved traumas, including identity rejection trauma, I can help.
I specialize in gender dysphoria, anxiety and trauma. Our journey together is about healing past wounds & shedding the negative beliefs that are keeping you stuck & away from the joy that is your innate right to experience. The struggle to lesson anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria and/or the pain of past traumas has led many of my clients to self-sooth through a variety of ways including eating, smoking, drinking, gaming, & toxic relationships. Through therapy, including EMDR and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, my clients not only get unstuck, they soar.
(323) 530-1219 View (323) 530-1219
Photo of Macayla Meyers, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Macayla Meyers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90035
My area of expertise includes treating various mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, substance use disorders.
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
My area of expertise includes treating various mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, substance use disorders.
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
(949) 776-8428 View (949) 776-8428
Photo of Catherine Forbes, PhD, Psychologist
Catherine Forbes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, trauma-informed, and gender affirming interventions, with specialized training in CBT, transgender health, and trauma.
Stress, depression, anxiety, traumas, family issues, identity concerns - so many of us of all ages face these and many other challenges. Are you hoping to reduce your distress and increase your engagement in life and experience of joy? Would you like more satisfying, healthy relationships? Looking for support through your gender journey and access to needed affirming medical services? Your experiences are valid and you matter. Positive change is possible.
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, trauma-informed, and gender affirming interventions, with specialized training in CBT, transgender health, and trauma.
Stress, depression, anxiety, traumas, family issues, identity concerns - so many of us of all ages face these and many other challenges. Are you hoping to reduce your distress and increase your engagement in life and experience of joy? Would you like more satisfying, healthy relationships? Looking for support through your gender journey and access to needed affirming medical services? Your experiences are valid and you matter. Positive change is possible.
(833) 691-5541 View (833) 691-5541
Photo of Xtine Milrod, PhD, LMFT, AASECT, CST, WPATH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Xtine Milrod
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AASECT, CST, WPATH
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90069
I also work with transgender issues and sex work/sex industry issues, both on behalf of clients and sex workers.
I work with individuals or couples of any gender or orientation who seek help for sexual relationship issues. These issues are not limited to, but include arousal and orgasm, sexual desire, compulsive sexual behavior, masturbation issues, premature or delayed ejaculation, pain during sexual activity and psychological issues around monogamy, infidelity, boredom and wanting a change in one's sexual repertoire. The goal is often increased eroticism, heightened intimacy, and decreased anxiety during sex. My aim is for you to overcome the problems that result from negative feelings and behaviors and to achieve your full sexual potential.
I also work with transgender issues and sex work/sex industry issues, both on behalf of clients and sex workers.
I work with individuals or couples of any gender or orientation who seek help for sexual relationship issues. These issues are not limited to, but include arousal and orgasm, sexual desire, compulsive sexual behavior, masturbation issues, premature or delayed ejaculation, pain during sexual activity and psychological issues around monogamy, infidelity, boredom and wanting a change in one's sexual repertoire. The goal is often increased eroticism, heightened intimacy, and decreased anxiety during sex. My aim is for you to overcome the problems that result from negative feelings and behaviors and to achieve your full sexual potential.
(310) 776-6069 View (310) 776-6069
Photo of Desiree Tamjidi, PhD, Psychologist
Desiree Tamjidi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I believe in facilitating patients’ understanding of themselves while using a strength based approach. My approach to therapy is naturally warm and compassionate. And I believe that inclusivity, cultural competency and patient’s empowerment are integral aspects of psychotherapy. My experience is in treating depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder and personality disorders, grief, acculturation issues, life transitions and identity development. In addition, specialize in working with patients who identify as transgender, gender fluid and LGBTQIA community.
I believe in facilitating patients’ understanding of themselves while using a strength based approach. My approach to therapy is naturally warm and compassionate. And I believe that inclusivity, cultural competency and patient’s empowerment are integral aspects of psychotherapy. My experience is in treating depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder and personality disorders, grief, acculturation issues, life transitions and identity development. In addition, specialize in working with patients who identify as transgender, gender fluid and LGBTQIA community.
(747) 201-7413 View (747) 201-7413
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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.