Photo of Dr. Lou Bigelow, PhD
Dr. Lou Bigelow
Registered Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I work with transgender, non-binary, LGBTQ+ people, and others who struggle with anxiety, supporting you to develop satisfying relationships, greater confidence and a sense of 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.
I work with transgender, non-binary, LGBTQ+ people, and others who struggle with anxiety, supporting you to develop satisfying relationships, greater confidence and a sense of 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 Dr. Luke Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Luke Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90029  (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 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 Soren Nilsson, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Soren Nilsson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
Many of the people who consult with me identify as artists, writers, filmmakers, educators, activists, sex workers, queer, transgender, nonbinary, polyamorous/non-monogamous, or are living in resistance to social norms in one way or another. Problems can seem to take over our lives when we find ourselves living near the edges of what's deemed "acceptable," "respectable," or even "healthy." Through our conversations, I aim to help people reimagine the kinds of responses and relationships they'd like to have with difficult situations or problems in their lives.
Many of the people who consult with me identify as artists, writers, filmmakers, educators, activists, sex workers, queer, transgender, nonbinary, polyamorous/non-monogamous, or are living in resistance to social norms in one way or another. Problems can seem to take over our lives when we find ourselves living near the edges of what's deemed "acceptable," "respectable," or even "healthy." Through our conversations, I aim to help people reimagine the kinds of responses and relationships they'd like to have with difficult situations or problems in their lives.
(818) 296-6630 View (818) 296-6630
Photo of undefined - Hazel Hamann, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hazel Hamann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90005  (Online Only)
Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
(858) 251-8653 View (858) 251-8653
Photo of Charity Miller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charity Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001
Charity treats depression, anxiety, women's issues, men's issues, anger management, behavioral health issues, issues related to parenting, LGBTQIA+ issues, as well as providing mental and emotional support to transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary folks as they start their journey in gender-affirming healthcare.
Charity Miller, licensed marriage and family therapist, is a proudly out non-binary therapist focusing primarily on working with BIPOC folks of all genders, those in the LGBTQIA+ community, and adolescents ages 13-17. Their approach to therapy is meeting the client where they are and forming a healthy and safe working relationship as they believe the biggest catalyst for change is the therapeutic relationship.
Charity treats depression, anxiety, women's issues, men's issues, anger management, behavioral health issues, issues related to parenting, LGBTQIA+ issues, as well as providing mental and emotional support to transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary folks as they start their journey in gender-affirming healthcare.
Charity Miller, licensed marriage and family therapist, is a proudly out non-binary therapist focusing primarily on working with BIPOC folks of all genders, those in the LGBTQIA+ community, and adolescents ages 13-17. Their approach to therapy is meeting the client where they are and forming a healthy and safe working relationship as they believe the biggest catalyst for change is the therapeutic relationship.
(213) 261-9580 View (213) 261-9580
Photo of undefined - PatrickLyra Wilder LMFT & Associates, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
PatrickLyra Wilder LMFT & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90013  (Online Only)
As a white therapist, I am trained in centering Black, Indigenous & diverse clients of color and am thoroughly trained in LGBTQIA2S+ and Transgender Mental Health.
It's hard to maintain balance in an intense world. Connecting with a safe, trained professional can help uncover your strengths, resolve trauma, & increase peace. I'm eager to help my clients practice mindful coping, employ a solutions-focus, & attend to/soothe embodied sensations that arise as the wheel of the mind turns. I believe the richest healing unfolds in our therapeutic relationship - where we collaborate, build trust, work through what arises in the moment. As a person-centered psychotherapist, I meet you where you are as you are. Let's talk!
As a white therapist, I am trained in centering Black, Indigenous & diverse clients of color and am thoroughly trained in LGBTQIA2S+ and Transgender Mental Health.
It's hard to maintain balance in an intense world. Connecting with a safe, trained professional can help uncover your strengths, resolve trauma, & increase peace. I'm eager to help my clients practice mindful coping, employ a solutions-focus, & attend to/soothe embodied sensations that arise as the wheel of the mind turns. I believe the richest healing unfolds in our therapeutic relationship - where we collaborate, build trust, work through what arises in the moment. As a person-centered psychotherapist, I meet you where you are as you are. Let's talk!
(805) 516-0742 View (805) 516-0742
Photo of Jared Anderson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jared Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in trauma (EMDR, somatic, IFS), structural dissociation/DID, sex and love addiction, LGBTQ+, transgender/non-binary identity, and autism.
I help creatives, public people, academics, designers, corporate, and tech professionals heal from trauma. You may excel in some areas yet suffer anxiety, depression (stuck/lost), and relationship pain. A past with abuse, neglect, emotional disconnect can result in both thriving and overactive survival instincts. I provide a warm judgment-free space, strict confidentiality, modern research-based techniques, and 25 years of mental health experience. I offer EMDR, IFS (internal family systems/parts work), Somatic Experiencing, & psychedelic ketamine work. I also specialize with ASD/neurodivergent (autism), DID/dissociation, & LGBTQ+.
I have specialized training in trauma (EMDR, somatic, IFS), structural dissociation/DID, sex and love addiction, LGBTQ+, transgender/non-binary identity, and autism.
I help creatives, public people, academics, designers, corporate, and tech professionals heal from trauma. You may excel in some areas yet suffer anxiety, depression (stuck/lost), and relationship pain. A past with abuse, neglect, emotional disconnect can result in both thriving and overactive survival instincts. I provide a warm judgment-free space, strict confidentiality, modern research-based techniques, and 25 years of mental health experience. I offer EMDR, IFS (internal family systems/parts work), Somatic Experiencing, & psychedelic ketamine work. I also specialize with ASD/neurodivergent (autism), DID/dissociation, & LGBTQ+.
(213) 372-0180 View (213) 372-0180
Photo of Damon Holzum, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Damon Holzum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Transgender therapy and support.
Damon Holzum, LCSW. I bring a fresh, passionate and compassionate approach to your concerns and engage with you as someone desiring a powerful, nurturing, and solutions focused experience. My focus is an integrative approach blending CBT, experiential, Gestalt, and narrative therapies to assist you and your significant other or family to thrive within your environment and understand your thoughts and feelings to be the best you. I engage with all genres of individuals and focus on sex-positive therapy, polyamory, alternative sexual practices and the destigmatization of all things sexual and intimate within your relationships.
Transgender therapy and support.
Damon Holzum, LCSW. I bring a fresh, passionate and compassionate approach to your concerns and engage with you as someone desiring a powerful, nurturing, and solutions focused experience. My focus is an integrative approach blending CBT, experiential, Gestalt, and narrative therapies to assist you and your significant other or family to thrive within your environment and understand your thoughts and feelings to be the best you. I engage with all genres of individuals and focus on sex-positive therapy, polyamory, alternative sexual practices and the destigmatization of all things sexual and intimate within your relationships.
(424) 293-3960 View (424) 293-3960
Photo of Cary Frank Schwimmer, PsyD, Psychologist
Cary Frank Schwimmer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Testing/evaluation for pre-treatment transgender.
I have over 30 years of experience in working with adults. I am an expert in the treatment of anxiety and depression. If I am not in your insurance network I can still work with you. I will help you to get reimbursement. I have a wide range of knowledge about anxiety, depression, OCD, panic disorder, addictions, fears, relationship issues, PTSD, phobias and family issues. One Specialty: Childhood and Adult Trauma. I believe that the exploration of your life helps us to understand who you are today. 20 years of experience with EMDR. Neurofeedback for anxiety, ADHD, brain fog, TBI, depression, concussion and a range of other issues.
Testing/evaluation for pre-treatment transgender.
I have over 30 years of experience in working with adults. I am an expert in the treatment of anxiety and depression. If I am not in your insurance network I can still work with you. I will help you to get reimbursement. I have a wide range of knowledge about anxiety, depression, OCD, panic disorder, addictions, fears, relationship issues, PTSD, phobias and family issues. One Specialty: Childhood and Adult Trauma. I believe that the exploration of your life helps us to understand who you are today. 20 years of experience with EMDR. Neurofeedback for anxiety, ADHD, brain fog, TBI, depression, concussion and a range of other issues.
(954) 874-8417 View (954) 874-8417
Photo of Alo Johnston, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alo Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90013
We live in a world of countless binaries, expectations, and assumptions about our lives, and escaping them in order to come into our own can be an incredibly difficult process. Perhaps you are here because you are struggling with obstacles in your life, or feel lost and unsure of what's next for you. Perhaps you are struggling with your identity or your personal relationships. Whatever the reason, you have already begun the process of seeking help and that means a great deal. I am licensed in the states of California, Idaho, and Nevada and can offer telehealth to clients in any of those states.
We live in a world of countless binaries, expectations, and assumptions about our lives, and escaping them in order to come into our own can be an incredibly difficult process. Perhaps you are here because you are struggling with obstacles in your life, or feel lost and unsure of what's next for you. Perhaps you are struggling with your identity or your personal relationships. Whatever the reason, you have already begun the process of seeking help and that means a great deal. I am licensed in the states of California, Idaho, and Nevada and can offer telehealth to clients in any of those states.
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Photo of Kevin Graves, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kevin Graves
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
“Bridging is the work of opening the gate to the stranger, within and without.” – Gloria E. Anzaldúa. You’re at an inflection point. The ground has shifted; you find yourself on rocky terrain. The trail’s end is hazy, but you catch a glimpse: the outline of a hopeful future, somehow. Let us nurture those neglected pieces of yourself too oft ignored. With sincerity, compassion, and levity, I offer steady company on your voyage. You’ll discover bridges to yourself, your loved ones, and the goals that matter to you. The discourse shall be rich; the reflection, deep; the change, meaningful. You needn’t travel alone.
“Bridging is the work of opening the gate to the stranger, within and without.” – Gloria E. Anzaldúa. You’re at an inflection point. The ground has shifted; you find yourself on rocky terrain. The trail’s end is hazy, but you catch a glimpse: the outline of a hopeful future, somehow. Let us nurture those neglected pieces of yourself too oft ignored. With sincerity, compassion, and levity, I offer steady company on your voyage. You’ll discover bridges to yourself, your loved ones, and the goals that matter to you. The discourse shall be rich; the reflection, deep; the change, meaningful. You needn’t travel alone.
(310) 742-0939 View (310) 742-0939
Photo of Alejandra Luna, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alejandra Luna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90089  (Online Only)
As non-binary and trans folx we often find ourselves wondering "where do I belong in this world?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we dont feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder when its going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just don't get it. We really want someone who can connect to us &make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
As non-binary and trans folx we often find ourselves wondering "where do I belong in this world?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we dont feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder when its going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just don't get it. We really want someone who can connect to us &make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
(951) 262-7917 View (951) 262-7917
Photo of Manny Kemphues, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Manny Kemphues
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
Sometimes there are parts of ourselves, our desires, or our pasts that are difficult to share with others. This could be because of a lack of acceptance or support in your social world, and could be related to feelings of fear, shame, or disgust. I work with clients to build a relationship in which it is safe enough for clients to bring disowned parts of themselves into compassionate awareness as they develop a sense of wholeness. Throughout this deep internal work, I ask curious questions about environmental factors in order to support liberation from internalized oppression and self-blame.
Sometimes there are parts of ourselves, our desires, or our pasts that are difficult to share with others. This could be because of a lack of acceptance or support in your social world, and could be related to feelings of fear, shame, or disgust. I work with clients to build a relationship in which it is safe enough for clients to bring disowned parts of themselves into compassionate awareness as they develop a sense of wholeness. Throughout this deep internal work, I ask curious questions about environmental factors in order to support liberation from internalized oppression and self-blame.
(310) 881-8322 View (310) 881-8322
Photo of Kate S. Logan, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kate S. Logan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about providing affirmative therapy that honors and celebrates the richness of each individual's identity and experience. Whether you're exploring your gender, seeking support during transition, struggling with relationships, or simply want to become your most authentic self, I am here to help guide you on your path. I use a collaborative approach to therapy, working alongside clients to uncover personal insights and develop strategies for overcoming challenges. I focus on fostering self-awareness, self-acceptance, and developing strong support networks outside of the therapy office.
I am passionate about providing affirmative therapy that honors and celebrates the richness of each individual's identity and experience. Whether you're exploring your gender, seeking support during transition, struggling with relationships, or simply want to become your most authentic self, I am here to help guide you on your path. I use a collaborative approach to therapy, working alongside clients to uncover personal insights and develop strategies for overcoming challenges. I focus on fostering self-awareness, self-acceptance, and developing strong support networks outside of the therapy office.
(424) 999-9470 View (424) 999-9470
Photo of Ben N Quan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben N Quan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90010  (Online Only)
As LGBTQ minorities, we often find ourselves wondering "where is my community?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we don't feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder... when is this going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just "don't get it." We really want someone who can connect to us and make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
As LGBTQ minorities, we often find ourselves wondering "where is my community?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we don't feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder... when is this going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just "don't get it." We really want someone who can connect to us and make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
(951) 227-7430 View (951) 227-7430
Photo of undefined - Dr. Albert Bonfil, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Albert Bonfil
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I’m an expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. As a clinical faculty member in UCLA’s Psychology Ph.D. program, I train graduate students in evidence-based therapy. I am also the director of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles, a group practice dedicated to providing evidence-based therapy. I have a deep, personal commitment to providing the most cutting-edge, science-based therapy interventions to my clients so they get better faster.
I’m an expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. As a clinical faculty member in UCLA’s Psychology Ph.D. program, I train graduate students in evidence-based therapy. I am also the director of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles, a group practice dedicated to providing evidence-based therapy. I have a deep, personal commitment to providing the most cutting-edge, science-based therapy interventions to my clients so they get better faster.
(424) 396-6501 x1 View (424) 396-6501 x1
Photo of Katherine Dautenhahn (Anxiety Trauma Depression Burnout), PhD, Psychologist
Katherine Dautenhahn (Anxiety Trauma Depression Burnout)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90049  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Dr. Katherine Dautenhahn (she/they). I specialize in life transitions, work-life balance, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and perfectionism. I take an individualized approach to therapy by prioritizing client goals, celebrating client's unique cultural traditions, and integrating relevant diversity and contextual factors into treatment. Clients who work with me describe me as compassionate, validating, and a great accountability partner.
Hello! I'm Dr. Katherine Dautenhahn (she/they). I specialize in life transitions, work-life balance, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and perfectionism. I take an individualized approach to therapy by prioritizing client goals, celebrating client's unique cultural traditions, and integrating relevant diversity and contextual factors into treatment. Clients who work with me describe me as compassionate, validating, and a great accountability partner.
(424) 407-8945 View (424) 407-8945
Photo of undefined - Telehealth of California, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Telehealth of California
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90012  (Online Only)
At Telehealth of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
At Telehealth of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
(213) 319-2513 View (213) 319-2513
Photo of undefined - Clarity Family Therapy Services, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Clarity Family Therapy Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Are you anxious about life, work, relationships? We offer therapy to help with many issues including stress, relationship issues, or deep trauma through our EMDR Treatments. We offer a safe space both telehealth and in person to process what you are struggling with and improve your life. Our group specializes in creating healthy relationships, working through anxiety, depression, getting "unstuck," working through addictions, and healing from trauma. We accept all Medi-Cal plans including Carelon/LA Care. We are here to help you heal.
Are you anxious about life, work, relationships? We offer therapy to help with many issues including stress, relationship issues, or deep trauma through our EMDR Treatments. We offer a safe space both telehealth and in person to process what you are struggling with and improve your life. Our group specializes in creating healthy relationships, working through anxiety, depression, getting "unstuck," working through addictions, and healing from trauma. We accept all Medi-Cal plans including Carelon/LA Care. We are here to help you heal.
(818) 495-8986 View (818) 495-8986

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.