LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Andy Lavine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andy Lavine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I am trained in many modalities aimed at healing trauma, including AF-EMDR, and also enjoy working with the LGBT+ population.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. If you've encountered tough experiences, difficulties in work and relationships, traumas, or addiction, I am available to help. I've done extensive work at the crossroads of trauma and mental health, and specialize in helping clients move from crisis into stabilization. I use modalities such as attachment focused EMDR, IFS, DBT skills, somatic interventions and insight oriented talk therapy. I am here to partner with you so that we can work together to help you feel better. Getting you to a place where you can live the life you want to is my primary goal!
I am trained in many modalities aimed at healing trauma, including AF-EMDR, and also enjoy working with the LGBT+ population.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. If you've encountered tough experiences, difficulties in work and relationships, traumas, or addiction, I am available to help. I've done extensive work at the crossroads of trauma and mental health, and specialize in helping clients move from crisis into stabilization. I use modalities such as attachment focused EMDR, IFS, DBT skills, somatic interventions and insight oriented talk therapy. I am here to partner with you so that we can work together to help you feel better. Getting you to a place where you can live the life you want to is my primary goal!
(415) 936-1910 View (415) 936-1910
Photo of Britt Gunnison, PsyD, Psychologist
Britt Gunnison
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Welcome to Authentic Path Psychology, my queer- and gender-affirming therapy practice. Beginning the process of therapy and reaching out for help can feel vulnerable and even scary, so I celebrate you taking this first step. I prioritize getting to know you and your specific needs intentionally, and my objective is to witness and support you in the unique way you deserve. My approach is relational and collaborative, and I strive to develop a relationship with my clients that will help to empower inner strength, expand capacity for self-compassion, and support in healing wounds that are impacting overall health and quality of life.
Welcome to Authentic Path Psychology, my queer- and gender-affirming therapy practice. Beginning the process of therapy and reaching out for help can feel vulnerable and even scary, so I celebrate you taking this first step. I prioritize getting to know you and your specific needs intentionally, and my objective is to witness and support you in the unique way you deserve. My approach is relational and collaborative, and I strive to develop a relationship with my clients that will help to empower inner strength, expand capacity for self-compassion, and support in healing wounds that are impacting overall health and quality of life.
(415) 322-5374 View (415) 322-5374
Photo of Jeffrey Gianelli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey Gianelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I specialize in spiritual growth, Trauma/ PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, LGBTQIA+, and self worth, using IFS, EMDR, ACT, and mindful self compassion.
EDMR Consultant, Internal Family Systems (IFS) trained. The therapy I do is all about getting to the root of your struggles. Talk therapy and problem solving can be great, but most of my client want to go beyond. By exploring the underlying causes, we can begin unraveling the knots that keep you stuck in the same old patterns. I draw from a variety of methods to your needs, creating a safe space for you to explore yourself more deeply, to see what you are still holding onto and to help you finally let go. I also teach a variety of tools you can use along the way. Now offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) as well.
I specialize in spiritual growth, Trauma/ PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, LGBTQIA+, and self worth, using IFS, EMDR, ACT, and mindful self compassion.
EDMR Consultant, Internal Family Systems (IFS) trained. The therapy I do is all about getting to the root of your struggles. Talk therapy and problem solving can be great, but most of my client want to go beyond. By exploring the underlying causes, we can begin unraveling the knots that keep you stuck in the same old patterns. I draw from a variety of methods to your needs, creating a safe space for you to explore yourself more deeply, to see what you are still holding onto and to help you finally let go. I also teach a variety of tools you can use along the way. Now offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) as well.
(510) 953-5247 View (510) 953-5247
Photo of Mikhaëla Beaudet-DeBus, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mikhaëla Beaudet-DeBus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I support my Clients' path to arrive at a freer, more empowered version of themselves. I am passionate about working through an intersectional and trauma-informed lens with everyone. I respect my Clients deeply and give them my genuine warmth and attentiveness. I am a good fit for people who are nervous about therapy, people working on boundaries, self love, finding their voice, embodiment, healing from trauma/complex trauma as well as folks from all parts of the LGBT+ family. I am here for gender exploration, questioning, arrival and take a non judgmental stance on all corners of consensual sex/sexuality/kink/non-monog+
Welcome! I support my Clients' path to arrive at a freer, more empowered version of themselves. I am passionate about working through an intersectional and trauma-informed lens with everyone. I respect my Clients deeply and give them my genuine warmth and attentiveness. I am a good fit for people who are nervous about therapy, people working on boundaries, self love, finding their voice, embodiment, healing from trauma/complex trauma as well as folks from all parts of the LGBT+ family. I am here for gender exploration, questioning, arrival and take a non judgmental stance on all corners of consensual sex/sexuality/kink/non-monog+
(510) 880-3764 View (510) 880-3764
Photo of Anthony Magnia, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Anthony Magnia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a queer geek of color myself, I know what it's like to feel alienated and othered, and I want you to feel truly understood in our sessions.
I specialize in helping teens (12+) and adults achieve mental health goals, build relationships, and heal from past pain. I have a special affinity for QTBIPOC and neurodivergent geeks, gamers, cosplayers, and furries. I am training to become a Certified Geek Therapist. We do things like using therapeutic games, elements of your fandoms, and visualization exercises to explore who you are, express yourself, and increase self-confidence.
As a queer geek of color myself, I know what it's like to feel alienated and othered, and I want you to feel truly understood in our sessions.
I specialize in helping teens (12+) and adults achieve mental health goals, build relationships, and heal from past pain. I have a special affinity for QTBIPOC and neurodivergent geeks, gamers, cosplayers, and furries. I am training to become a Certified Geek Therapist. We do things like using therapeutic games, elements of your fandoms, and visualization exercises to explore who you are, express yourself, and increase self-confidence.
(707) 596-9696 View (707) 596-9696
Photo of Sye Gratz, RDT, MA, 200 RYT
Sye Gratz
RDT, MA, 200 RYT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Hey there fellow traveler! I am a nb, queer, neuroqueer, white, ashkenazi jewish healer. I support queer creatives & nonconformists honor authenticity beyond the binary. My practice offers a somatic, creative, relational, and liberation centered approach to caregiver burnout, healing developmental & intergenerational trauma, post traumatic & chronic stress. I hold a non-pathologizing stance, encouraging the lead of your body intelligence, agency & joy! I have a passion for supporting LGBTQ+ community with transitions, resistance, relational healing, & working with the wounds/wisdom of "growing up too quickly" in childhood.
Hey there fellow traveler! I am a nb, queer, neuroqueer, white, ashkenazi jewish healer. I support queer creatives & nonconformists honor authenticity beyond the binary. My practice offers a somatic, creative, relational, and liberation centered approach to caregiver burnout, healing developmental & intergenerational trauma, post traumatic & chronic stress. I hold a non-pathologizing stance, encouraging the lead of your body intelligence, agency & joy! I have a passion for supporting LGBTQ+ community with transitions, resistance, relational healing, & working with the wounds/wisdom of "growing up too quickly" in childhood.
(510) 901-4904 View (510) 901-4904
Photo of Billie Melissa Stultz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Billie Melissa Stultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I am passionate about serving queer and trans communities and am kink and poly affirming.
My practice is guided by a belief in the healing power of being with. I bring compassionate witness and a warm, collaborative, relational approach that is informed by psychodynamic, somatic, feminist, narrative, attachment, and trauma theories. A deep commitment to social justice, and attunement to the impacts of social and systemic oppression, grounds my work.
I am passionate about serving queer and trans communities and am kink and poly affirming.
My practice is guided by a belief in the healing power of being with. I bring compassionate witness and a warm, collaborative, relational approach that is informed by psychodynamic, somatic, feminist, narrative, attachment, and trauma theories. A deep commitment to social justice, and attunement to the impacts of social and systemic oppression, grounds my work.
(707) 876-0827 View (707) 876-0827
Photo of Rascal Roubos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rascal Roubos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601
You are not your problems, the problem is the problem! Together we can begin to discern the difference and take action toward change. I am a white, genderqueer therapist dedicated to facilitating personal, interpersonal and collective healing through relationships and organizing. I specialize in supporting people experiencing issues related to boundaries, self-respect, burnout, anger, social/racial justice, healing trauma, identity development, existential questions, sexuality, gender identity, and life transitions. LGBTQ, poly, and kink identities welcome. More at: www.tidepooltherapy.com and www.traumaconsciouspraxis.com
You are not your problems, the problem is the problem! Together we can begin to discern the difference and take action toward change. I am a white, genderqueer therapist dedicated to facilitating personal, interpersonal and collective healing through relationships and organizing. I specialize in supporting people experiencing issues related to boundaries, self-respect, burnout, anger, social/racial justice, healing trauma, identity development, existential questions, sexuality, gender identity, and life transitions. LGBTQ, poly, and kink identities welcome. More at: www.tidepooltherapy.com and www.traumaconsciouspraxis.com
(510) 880-1858 View (510) 880-1858
Photo of Dr. Alicia Johnson, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Alicia Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Black, Queer, bicultural, first-generation clinician, I'm most passionate about providing care to others of historically marginalized communities.
One of the bravest things we can do in life is to seek help when we need it most, especially during uncertain times such as these. It can be difficult to carry our struggles alone, and a true relief when we find someone to support us as we work through them. There are many reasons why people seek therapy, but no matter what yours is today, the most important key to change is believing in the possibility of your own healing, evolution, and growth. From there you will find the path that can lead to the discovery of your full potential.
As a Black, Queer, bicultural, first-generation clinician, I'm most passionate about providing care to others of historically marginalized communities.
One of the bravest things we can do in life is to seek help when we need it most, especially during uncertain times such as these. It can be difficult to carry our struggles alone, and a true relief when we find someone to support us as we work through them. There are many reasons why people seek therapy, but no matter what yours is today, the most important key to change is believing in the possibility of your own healing, evolution, and growth. From there you will find the path that can lead to the discovery of your full potential.
(510) 398-4410 View (510) 398-4410
Photo of Magdalene N Martinez, LCSW, RYT, RCYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Magdalene N Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT, RCYT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I am a queer Afro-Latinx (Dominican-American) spiritual activist, former pre-school teacher with experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I am bilingual in Spanish and English. I am excited to support BIPOC, LGBTQAI+, children and youth healing from dissociation, feeling disconnected to self and recovering from childhood and recent traumas. I love supporting people of all ages to deepen their relationship to self as a spiritual practice. When appropriate clients and I explore how family, society, identities and individual perceptions affect their current situation.
I am a queer Afro-Latinx (Dominican-American) spiritual activist, former pre-school teacher with experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I am bilingual in Spanish and English. I am excited to support BIPOC, LGBTQAI+, children and youth healing from dissociation, feeling disconnected to self and recovering from childhood and recent traumas. I love supporting people of all ages to deepen their relationship to self as a spiritual practice. When appropriate clients and I explore how family, society, identities and individual perceptions affect their current situation.
(510) 944-0464 View (510) 944-0464
Photo of Wes Rothstein, AMFT
Wes Rothstein
AMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with queer, trans, and gender nonconforming people including parents, partners, and other relationship formations.
Throughout life, many of us receive messages that make us question our place or urge us to alter ourselves to fit societal norms. I work LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals who are working on self-discovery and unlearning as well as seeking answers to questions about identity, belonging, and authenticity. Whether you are grappling with aspects of personal identity, past or present trauma or oppression, or challenging relationship dynamics, we will work collaboratively towards positive growth. I also offer support for those seeking help around queer conception, infertility, family building.
I work with queer, trans, and gender nonconforming people including parents, partners, and other relationship formations.
Throughout life, many of us receive messages that make us question our place or urge us to alter ourselves to fit societal norms. I work LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals who are working on self-discovery and unlearning as well as seeking answers to questions about identity, belonging, and authenticity. Whether you are grappling with aspects of personal identity, past or present trauma or oppression, or challenging relationship dynamics, we will work collaboratively towards positive growth. I also offer support for those seeking help around queer conception, infertility, family building.
(510) 983-8157 View (510) 983-8157
Photo of Robert Deady, PsyD, Psychologist
Robert Deady
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
The decision to pursue therapy is not one taken easily. Many possibilities lead a person to this point: A recent disruption or crisis in your life, a long struggle with troubling emotions and behaviors, and/or a fundamental desire to better know yourself. I have experience treating issues such as depression, trauma, interpersonal difficulties, anxiety, and life transition difficulties. Additionally, I have expertise in working with people who have survived childhood abuse, who experience feelings of alienation and estrangement from others, and those who identify as LGBTQ+.
The decision to pursue therapy is not one taken easily. Many possibilities lead a person to this point: A recent disruption or crisis in your life, a long struggle with troubling emotions and behaviors, and/or a fundamental desire to better know yourself. I have experience treating issues such as depression, trauma, interpersonal difficulties, anxiety, and life transition difficulties. Additionally, I have expertise in working with people who have survived childhood abuse, who experience feelings of alienation and estrangement from others, and those who identify as LGBTQ+.
(510) 422-0915 View (510) 422-0915
Photo of Max Littman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Max Littman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling stuck, disconnected, or burdened by shame? I help individuals like you navigate these struggles, uncover what's holding you back, and release these binds by using my innate gifts of attunement and communication, in combination with my dedication, experience, and thorough training in trauma and attachment. Helping people like you is my life's work. While I have extensive experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, I specialize in supporting gay and queer men and those dealing with childhood trauma.
Feeling stuck, disconnected, or burdened by shame? I help individuals like you navigate these struggles, uncover what's holding you back, and release these binds by using my innate gifts of attunement and communication, in combination with my dedication, experience, and thorough training in trauma and attachment. Helping people like you is my life's work. While I have extensive experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, I specialize in supporting gay and queer men and those dealing with childhood trauma.
(415) 301-7602 View (415) 301-7602
Photo of Mischa Freeman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mischa Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I work with individuals and couples across many backgrounds, particularly within queer and trans community, kink and polyamory, and people who are in recovery and survivors.
Hi there, I’m glad you’re here. I know that looking for a therapist can be hard, especially when you’re hurting or feeling low. I may be able to help. You might feel lonely, anxious, or full of guilt…or you might not know what you feel. You may be confused about the choices you make in life, or you may feel frustrated with the unjust world you live in. Many critical thought patterns, painful feelings, and unwanted behaviors started out as survival strategies to protect us during difficult life experiences. These strategies helped us cope in the past, but can lead to conflict and suffering in the present.
I work with individuals and couples across many backgrounds, particularly within queer and trans community, kink and polyamory, and people who are in recovery and survivors.
Hi there, I’m glad you’re here. I know that looking for a therapist can be hard, especially when you’re hurting or feeling low. I may be able to help. You might feel lonely, anxious, or full of guilt…or you might not know what you feel. You may be confused about the choices you make in life, or you may feel frustrated with the unjust world you live in. Many critical thought patterns, painful feelings, and unwanted behaviors started out as survival strategies to protect us during difficult life experiences. These strategies helped us cope in the past, but can lead to conflict and suffering in the present.
(510) 949-3808 View (510) 949-3808
Photo of Abby Weintraub, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Abby Weintraub
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I work with people across many areas, but those who seek me out tend to be queer/LGBTQIAA2+, neurodivergent in some way, trans/non-binary/gender non-conforming, chronically or acutely ill, disabled, fat-identified and/or working on an empowered relationship with their body, polyamorous, kinky, sex workers, and non-traditional family structures. I'll be with you every step of the way as you move from shame to self-compassion, and work through the expression of anger, sadness, and grief around what you've lost, or what you never got to have.
Welcome! I work with people across many areas, but those who seek me out tend to be queer/LGBTQIAA2+, neurodivergent in some way, trans/non-binary/gender non-conforming, chronically or acutely ill, disabled, fat-identified and/or working on an empowered relationship with their body, polyamorous, kinky, sex workers, and non-traditional family structures. I'll be with you every step of the way as you move from shame to self-compassion, and work through the expression of anger, sadness, and grief around what you've lost, or what you never got to have.
(510) 890-3436 View (510) 890-3436
Photo of Kat Marie Yoas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kat Marie Yoas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a queer femme artist and social justice therapist.
Have you been feeling stuck? Having difficulties making changes, or knowing what to do? Are you navigating a sense that something is off? I can help. My clients say I'm easy to talk with because I'm present, compassionate, and am real with them. I listen actively and reflect honestly, engaging in creative, authentic, and occasionally humorous ways. I share tools to help you change the patterns in your life that make you feel stuck. In my strengths-based, trauma-informed, creative and client-centered approach, you will find your way back to yourself: your unique voice, movement, vision, and your way of loving and being loved.
I am a queer femme artist and social justice therapist.
Have you been feeling stuck? Having difficulties making changes, or knowing what to do? Are you navigating a sense that something is off? I can help. My clients say I'm easy to talk with because I'm present, compassionate, and am real with them. I listen actively and reflect honestly, engaging in creative, authentic, and occasionally humorous ways. I share tools to help you change the patterns in your life that make you feel stuck. In my strengths-based, trauma-informed, creative and client-centered approach, you will find your way back to yourself: your unique voice, movement, vision, and your way of loving and being loved.
(510) 544-8098 View (510) 544-8098
Photo of Luisa Mancera, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Luisa Mancera
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I particularly enjoy working with multi-cultural and LGBTQ+ folks.
Do you feel like you're doing everything you're supposed to do, but feeling constantly stressed, overwhelmed, or helpless? Are you stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns? Are you living in your head so much that it’s getting in the way of your relationships, health, or work? Are you constantly busy yet feel unfulfilled, like the ‘go’ button is stuck in the on position? Maybe this is you, or maybe this is your partner. I’ve worked with lots of clients like this — working through trauma, identity issues, anxiety, and stress to live a healthier, more meaningful life.
I particularly enjoy working with multi-cultural and LGBTQ+ folks.
Do you feel like you're doing everything you're supposed to do, but feeling constantly stressed, overwhelmed, or helpless? Are you stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns? Are you living in your head so much that it’s getting in the way of your relationships, health, or work? Are you constantly busy yet feel unfulfilled, like the ‘go’ button is stuck in the on position? Maybe this is you, or maybe this is your partner. I’ve worked with lots of clients like this — working through trauma, identity issues, anxiety, and stress to live a healthier, more meaningful life.
(510) 901-3290 View (510) 901-3290
Photo of Satveer Kler, PhD
Satveer Kler
Registered Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I’m honored that you’re considering the brave step of therapy with me. As a therapist at Deeper Than Color, I work to empower Black, Asian, Pacific Islander, Latino (Latine/x), Indigenous and Native American, and other People of Color, as well as LGBTQIA+ individuals, to address oppression, discrimination, and marginalization. I specialize in working with adult children of immigrants, individuals on the neurodivergent spectrum, and queer people of color.
Hello! I’m honored that you’re considering the brave step of therapy with me. As a therapist at Deeper Than Color, I work to empower Black, Asian, Pacific Islander, Latino (Latine/x), Indigenous and Native American, and other People of Color, as well as LGBTQIA+ individuals, to address oppression, discrimination, and marginalization. I specialize in working with adult children of immigrants, individuals on the neurodivergent spectrum, and queer people of color.
(415) 985-1120 View (415) 985-1120
Photo of Ab (Abigail) Krumbein, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ab (Abigail) Krumbein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with queer, trans, and nonbinary people, healers, activists, postpartum people, parents, twins, and those longing for deeper relationships with themselves and others.
We all deserve to feel safe and connected. Sometimes, overwhelming things happen that prevent us from feeling safe and settled in the world. In therapy, we support the strengths that have helped you survive and grow your capacity to move towards the life you long for. Whatever you are experiencing, be that anxiety, depression, or the pain of trauma or oppression, together we will collaborate to tend to what hurts and to nurture the vitality that exists inside you.
I work with queer, trans, and nonbinary people, healers, activists, postpartum people, parents, twins, and those longing for deeper relationships with themselves and others.
We all deserve to feel safe and connected. Sometimes, overwhelming things happen that prevent us from feeling safe and settled in the world. In therapy, we support the strengths that have helped you survive and grow your capacity to move towards the life you long for. Whatever you are experiencing, be that anxiety, depression, or the pain of trauma or oppression, together we will collaborate to tend to what hurts and to nurture the vitality that exists inside you.
(510) 916-2753 View (510) 916-2753
Photo of Alyson Marlow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyson Marlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello and welcome! My ideal clients are those interested in a more holistic approach, have an openness to alternative practices, and are in touch with their sensitivities. I gravitate towards those rebellious at heart and because of my various life and work experiences hold a soft spot for underserved and vulnerable communities. Some of those groups include immigrant families, families impacted by incarceration, and those included in the LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and Spanish speaking communities. I am great a support for those looking to learn more tools in managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or healing from trauma.
Hello and welcome! My ideal clients are those interested in a more holistic approach, have an openness to alternative practices, and are in touch with their sensitivities. I gravitate towards those rebellious at heart and because of my various life and work experiences hold a soft spot for underserved and vulnerable communities. Some of those groups include immigrant families, families impacted by incarceration, and those included in the LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and Spanish speaking communities. I am great a support for those looking to learn more tools in managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or healing from trauma.
(415) 949-1589 View (415) 949-1589
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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.