Transgender Therapists in Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA

Photo of Heather Cassandra Blessing, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Cassandra Blessing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95826  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are a parent of a child who is transgender or on the gender spectrum, I can help you navigate this confusing road.
Being a person who is transgender, gender expansive, or on the gender spectrum is not easy. It is never easy when you are different from societies' norms. Whether you are seeking help for your child or yourself, together we can explore who you are, who you hope to be and how to help you get there. Everyone deserves to live life to their fullest ability and authentically. If you are struggling give me a call. We can talk on the phone and if you feel comfortable we can meet for a session and see how we work together.
If you are a parent of a child who is transgender or on the gender spectrum, I can help you navigate this confusing road.
Being a person who is transgender, gender expansive, or on the gender spectrum is not easy. It is never easy when you are different from societies' norms. Whether you are seeking help for your child or yourself, together we can explore who you are, who you hope to be and how to help you get there. Everyone deserves to live life to their fullest ability and authentically. If you are struggling give me a call. We can talk on the phone and if you feel comfortable we can meet for a session and see how we work together.
(916) 512-1826 View (916) 512-1826
Photo of David Keith Nylund, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Keith Nylund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95825
I have been a therapist for 35 years working in non-profits, managed care, and private practice. My current work is couples therapy utilizing a relationship focused, resolution based approach. I have experience in working with anxiety/depression; trauma; ADHD; eating disorders; and family therapy. I am a Social Work Professor at Sacramento State Univ. I conduct workshops nationwide/internationally. I serve as the Clinical Director of the Gender Health Center, an agency serving the transgendercommunity. I have worked with hunderds of transgender youth and their families. I teach for the Vancouver School for Narrative Therapy.
I have been a therapist for 35 years working in non-profits, managed care, and private practice. My current work is couples therapy utilizing a relationship focused, resolution based approach. I have experience in working with anxiety/depression; trauma; ADHD; eating disorders; and family therapy. I am a Social Work Professor at Sacramento State Univ. I conduct workshops nationwide/internationally. I serve as the Clinical Director of the Gender Health Center, an agency serving the transgendercommunity. I have worked with hunderds of transgender youth and their families. I teach for the Vancouver School for Narrative Therapy.
(916) 382-7565 View (916) 382-7565
Photo of Ashley Damo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Damo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95825
I am passionate about working with individuals in the LGBTQ+ community, specifically those within the transgender community.
Hello, my name is Ashley Damo. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients as they work toward their personal goals. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy while working with adolescents and adults seeking therapy to address anxiety, depression, life transitions, family issues, and relationship difficulties. I also use Affirmative Therapy to address specific needs of individuals within the LGBTQ+ community.
I am passionate about working with individuals in the LGBTQ+ community, specifically those within the transgender community.
Hello, my name is Ashley Damo. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients as they work toward their personal goals. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy while working with adolescents and adults seeking therapy to address anxiety, depression, life transitions, family issues, and relationship difficulties. I also use Affirmative Therapy to address specific needs of individuals within the LGBTQ+ community.
(916) 776-5585 View (916) 776-5585
Photo of Dr. Tristan C. Buzzini, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Tristan C. Buzzini
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95825
I also have specialized training and experience working with LGBTQQIA identified individuals with expertise in work with transgender, genderqueer, non-binary, and gender diverse youth and adults.
I sincerely believe in whole-person wellness and that mind, body, and spirit need to be nurtured for overall mental health and well-being to be stabilized. It is my hope to support you in taking the steps you believe need to be taken to live a healthy, fulfilling, peaceful, and empowered life. As an expert in mindfulness and meditation, I work with adults and teens to effectively manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, impulsivity, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am also skilled in working with individuals who struggle with substance use, conduct disorders, and academic challenges.
I also have specialized training and experience working with LGBTQQIA identified individuals with expertise in work with transgender, genderqueer, non-binary, and gender diverse youth and adults.
I sincerely believe in whole-person wellness and that mind, body, and spirit need to be nurtured for overall mental health and well-being to be stabilized. It is my hope to support you in taking the steps you believe need to be taken to live a healthy, fulfilling, peaceful, and empowered life. As an expert in mindfulness and meditation, I work with adults and teens to effectively manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, impulsivity, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am also skilled in working with individuals who struggle with substance use, conduct disorders, and academic challenges.
(916) 269-5660 View (916) 269-5660
Photo of Refugio Pantoja, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Refugio Pantoja
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95834  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with community members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ+) community. I strive to provide a safe affirming space for individuals to work on being able to better manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, improve relationships and strive to live authentically.
I specialize in working with community members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ+) community. I strive to provide a safe affirming space for individuals to work on being able to better manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, improve relationships and strive to live authentically.
(916) 794-3813 View (916) 794-3813
Photo of Rosemary MacLaughlin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosemary MacLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95864
My specialty work has included: eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, personality disorders,relationship issues, gender dysphoria, illness, loss and end of life issues.
Therapy is an important step in a person's life, one that takes courage, awareness and careful thought. As a practicing psychotherapist for the last 15 years, I find it a privilege and honor to work with clients as they grow and learn about themselves and their lives. I believe it can be a wonderful opportunity to explore and move towards what is meaningful to you in your life. I also believe firmly that the therapist-client relationship is an important aspect in allowing for effective change and I strive to provide a warm, supportive and trusting environment throughout the process.
My specialty work has included: eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, personality disorders,relationship issues, gender dysphoria, illness, loss and end of life issues.
Therapy is an important step in a person's life, one that takes courage, awareness and careful thought. As a practicing psychotherapist for the last 15 years, I find it a privilege and honor to work with clients as they grow and learn about themselves and their lives. I believe it can be a wonderful opportunity to explore and move towards what is meaningful to you in your life. I also believe firmly that the therapist-client relationship is an important aspect in allowing for effective change and I strive to provide a warm, supportive and trusting environment throughout the process.
(916) 297-4561 View (916) 297-4561
Photo of Jamie Sepulveda, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Sepulveda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95825  (Online Only)
Some of the most common conditions I see include depression, anxiety, transgender issues, LGBTQ issues, relationship problems, attachment issues, self-esteem, and anger problems.
My name is Jamie Sepulveda; I am a licensed clinical social worker. My goal in providing therapy is to make a difference for everyone one day at a time. I meet my clients where they are and consider their whole environment when identifying issues and resolving them. My approach to therapy is eclectic; I incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and coping skills. Therapy space provides the opportunity to have someone to talk to and a safe place to say the hard things. My approach is warm, direct and respectful.
Some of the most common conditions I see include depression, anxiety, transgender issues, LGBTQ issues, relationship problems, attachment issues, self-esteem, and anger problems.
My name is Jamie Sepulveda; I am a licensed clinical social worker. My goal in providing therapy is to make a difference for everyone one day at a time. I meet my clients where they are and consider their whole environment when identifying issues and resolving them. My approach to therapy is eclectic; I incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and coping skills. Therapy space provides the opportunity to have someone to talk to and a safe place to say the hard things. My approach is warm, direct and respectful.
(415) 918-6079 View (415) 918-6079
Photo of Katya Mills, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katya Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95821
Katya has experience helping individuals suffering from: depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, trauma, mood disorders, addiction, and psychosis.
Katya (she/they) is a therapist with over 15 years of experience. She graduated from JFK University with a MA in Holistic Counseling Psychology. She believes healing is a creative endeavor unique to each and every one. Life is an adventure with its ups and downs, and the adversaries we face come from within (anxiety, confusion, depression, fear) and without (circumstances, stigma, relationships, trauma). Sometimes we feel small, helpless and hopeless against them. Katya's intention is to develop a healthy alliance with you, and empower you to defeat your adversaries and reach your highest aspirations.
Katya has experience helping individuals suffering from: depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, trauma, mood disorders, addiction, and psychosis.
Katya (she/they) is a therapist with over 15 years of experience. She graduated from JFK University with a MA in Holistic Counseling Psychology. She believes healing is a creative endeavor unique to each and every one. Life is an adventure with its ups and downs, and the adversaries we face come from within (anxiety, confusion, depression, fear) and without (circumstances, stigma, relationships, trauma). Sometimes we feel small, helpless and hopeless against them. Katya's intention is to develop a healthy alliance with you, and empower you to defeat your adversaries and reach your highest aspirations.
(916) 702-7354 View (916) 702-7354
Photo of Kris Coffman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kris Coffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95825  (Online Only)
Welcome, my name is Kris Coffman, and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist located on the beautiful Redwood Coast of California offering telehealth statewide, with limited in-office sessions. I work with adults and specialize in supporting my clients in their healing journey seeking to address anxiety, depression, relational trauma, developmental trauma, PTSD, gender dysphoria, environmental stressors, and much more.
Welcome, my name is Kris Coffman, and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist located on the beautiful Redwood Coast of California offering telehealth statewide, with limited in-office sessions. I work with adults and specialize in supporting my clients in their healing journey seeking to address anxiety, depression, relational trauma, developmental trauma, PTSD, gender dysphoria, environmental stressors, and much more.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Meredith Holmes, PsyD, MSW, Psychological Associate
Meredith Holmes
Psychological Associate, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95825  (Online Only)
I am an earnestly dedicated and empathetic mental health professional with over 6 years of experience as a psychotherapist and over 16 years of experience as a social worker. I support and empower clients who have a range of concerns including adjusting to life transitions, relationship challenges, exploring various aspects of identity (i.e., race, sexuality, gender), trauma, grief and loss, navigating the world as a neurodivergent person, and more. I build strong rapport with my clients, including those with negative past therapy experiences or are new to therapy. I use humor and creativity in therapy when it is useful for clients.
I am an earnestly dedicated and empathetic mental health professional with over 6 years of experience as a psychotherapist and over 16 years of experience as a social worker. I support and empower clients who have a range of concerns including adjusting to life transitions, relationship challenges, exploring various aspects of identity (i.e., race, sexuality, gender), trauma, grief and loss, navigating the world as a neurodivergent person, and more. I build strong rapport with my clients, including those with negative past therapy experiences or are new to therapy. I use humor and creativity in therapy when it is useful for clients.
(415) 874-0759 View (415) 874-0759
Photo of Shelly Kunker, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelly Kunker
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95864
Please note - I am accepting new clients but I do not accept insurance. I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and adults who have experienced trauma, grief, neglect and/or loneliness. Trauma can include a variety of things including physical, emotional, sexual or any other type of abuse, such as being raped or attacked; witnessing or experiencing something terrible such as a car accident or the trauma of combat deployment; the death of a loved one; or many other difficult life experiences. I have also helped numerous members of the LGBTQ community, including those questioning their sexuality and/or gender identity.
Please note - I am accepting new clients but I do not accept insurance. I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and adults who have experienced trauma, grief, neglect and/or loneliness. Trauma can include a variety of things including physical, emotional, sexual or any other type of abuse, such as being raped or attacked; witnessing or experiencing something terrible such as a car accident or the trauma of combat deployment; the death of a loved one; or many other difficult life experiences. I have also helped numerous members of the LGBTQ community, including those questioning their sexuality and/or gender identity.
(916) 545-6795 View (916) 545-6795
Photo of Kathy Campbell, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathy Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95825
I often work with people who grapple with hard questions to which there is no one "right" answer. I offer a non-judegmental atmosphere in which each person can seek his or her own answers. Therapy is a co-creation. I work with each person to find what "speaks" to him / her. That may include talking, mindfulness practices, or creative arts therapies. Using these methods accesses parts of the brain that can't be reached through words alone, and puts people in the flow of their wisdom and creativity, from which solutions to problems can emerge.
I often work with people who grapple with hard questions to which there is no one "right" answer. I offer a non-judegmental atmosphere in which each person can seek his or her own answers. Therapy is a co-creation. I work with each person to find what "speaks" to him / her. That may include talking, mindfulness practices, or creative arts therapies. Using these methods accesses parts of the brain that can't be reached through words alone, and puts people in the flow of their wisdom and creativity, from which solutions to problems can emerge.
(916) 550-5065 View (916) 550-5065
Photo of Thomas Edward Secula, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Thomas Edward Secula
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95821  (Online Only)
I believe in the power of understanding and connection to foster meaningful change. If you’re considering starting this journey or have any questions about what to expect, please reach out. I’m here to support you and would be glad to discuss how we might work together to address your needs.
I believe in the power of understanding and connection to foster meaningful change. If you’re considering starting this journey or have any questions about what to expect, please reach out. I’m here to support you and would be glad to discuss how we might work together to address your needs.
(916) 619-3424 View (916) 619-3424
Photo of Lindsay Foreman, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lindsay Foreman
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95825
Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Are you defeated by communication barriers or dealing with intimacy issues? Are fears, resentments, and insecurities holding you back from experiencing a deeper connection? These challenges can have you feeling isolated and misunderstood, yearning for healing with your partner. I’m committed to fostering relationship growth with individuals and couples dedicated to personal development. I can help your relationship heal from its past and redefine its future.
Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Are you defeated by communication barriers or dealing with intimacy issues? Are fears, resentments, and insecurities holding you back from experiencing a deeper connection? These challenges can have you feeling isolated and misunderstood, yearning for healing with your partner. I’m committed to fostering relationship growth with individuals and couples dedicated to personal development. I can help your relationship heal from its past and redefine its future.
(916) 894-8923 View (916) 894-8923
Photo of Jake Garden-De La Hoya, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jake Garden-De La Hoya
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95825
Jake’s CBT/Solution Focused style is interactive and fun while honoring his client’s relationships, helping them discover what is truly needed from these relationships and inspiring them to live authentically. Jake has years of practicing in county mental health agencies as an MFT Trainee & AMFT. Currently, Jake is an AMFT being supervised by Jennifer L. Flood (LMFT 98661) at a group private practice located in Campus Commons in Sacramento, CA. Jake enjoys working with clients to allow them to discover their full potential & regain control by giving self grace throughout this journey of life.
Jake’s CBT/Solution Focused style is interactive and fun while honoring his client’s relationships, helping them discover what is truly needed from these relationships and inspiring them to live authentically. Jake has years of practicing in county mental health agencies as an MFT Trainee & AMFT. Currently, Jake is an AMFT being supervised by Jennifer L. Flood (LMFT 98661) at a group private practice located in Campus Commons in Sacramento, CA. Jake enjoys working with clients to allow them to discover their full potential & regain control by giving self grace throughout this journey of life.
(916) 295-6274 View (916) 295-6274
Photo of Rachel Roberts, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95825
I work with individuals, couples, and families who are motivated to make changes, build insight, and strengthen their connections. I work with clients seeking support in addressing a range of challenges such as self-worth, intergenerational trauma/patterns, grief, conflict resolution, boundaries, codependency, and interpersonal difficulties. My primary goal as your therapist is to assist you in identifying and overcoming the barriers that may be hindering your progress. Sometimes, these barriers can be self-imposed. We will work together to recognize the ways in which we unintentionally impede our own growth and well-being.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who are motivated to make changes, build insight, and strengthen their connections. I work with clients seeking support in addressing a range of challenges such as self-worth, intergenerational trauma/patterns, grief, conflict resolution, boundaries, codependency, and interpersonal difficulties. My primary goal as your therapist is to assist you in identifying and overcoming the barriers that may be hindering your progress. Sometimes, these barriers can be self-imposed. We will work together to recognize the ways in which we unintentionally impede our own growth and well-being.
(916) 365-4289 View (916) 365-4289
Photo of Linda Lee Sessions, PhD, MAHS, LMFT, MAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Lee Sessions
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MAHS, LMFT, MAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95825
My approach to therapy is based on integrating theories from a family systems perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, & Attachment Theory. While I enjoy working with all client populations my specialties are LGBTQ issues, relationship issues, chronic illness and pain, terminal illness, grief and loss. I see each client as uniquely special, and deserving of life's best. My goal is to help each client discover who they are meant to be regardless of their experience. I especially like coaching individuals in the corporate setting, helping them to achieve their personal best in the office and at home.
My approach to therapy is based on integrating theories from a family systems perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, & Attachment Theory. While I enjoy working with all client populations my specialties are LGBTQ issues, relationship issues, chronic illness and pain, terminal illness, grief and loss. I see each client as uniquely special, and deserving of life's best. My goal is to help each client discover who they are meant to be regardless of their experience. I especially like coaching individuals in the corporate setting, helping them to achieve their personal best in the office and at home.
(916) 252-5237 View (916) 252-5237
Photo of Sarah Astarte, PhD
Sarah Astarte
PhD
Verified Verified
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95864
Spiritual guidance and intuitive counseling includes spirituality with contemporary counseling practices to help with healing, empowerment, and transformation. Understanding of one's spirituality is subjective to each client. My specializations include body image and self-esteem, love and relationships, sacred sexuality, identity formation, self-empowerment, life transitions, grief and loss, death and dying, mind-body connection, archetypes, multiculturalism and GLBT identity and issues, and spirituality and growth. Goddess psychology, creative expression, dream work, Reiki, intuitive readings, and indigenous healing practices.
Spiritual guidance and intuitive counseling includes spirituality with contemporary counseling practices to help with healing, empowerment, and transformation. Understanding of one's spirituality is subjective to each client. My specializations include body image and self-esteem, love and relationships, sacred sexuality, identity formation, self-empowerment, life transitions, grief and loss, death and dying, mind-body connection, archetypes, multiculturalism and GLBT identity and issues, and spirituality and growth. Goddess psychology, creative expression, dream work, Reiki, intuitive readings, and indigenous healing practices.
(916) 520-6292 View (916) 520-6292
Photo of Jennifer M. Crane, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer M. Crane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95864  (Online Only)
I believe we all want a sense of satisfaction in life. Somewhere along the way we may create false beliefs, stories and exhibit maladaptive behaviors all with positive intention. But in reality, we are further disconnecting us from our true selves in the process. Helping my clients to be gentle and compassionate towards themselves and exploring the ways they learned to cope, adapt and respond to the world is the first step towards recovering their true selves. Then the journey of awareness, introspection and healing can begin.
I believe we all want a sense of satisfaction in life. Somewhere along the way we may create false beliefs, stories and exhibit maladaptive behaviors all with positive intention. But in reality, we are further disconnecting us from our true selves in the process. Helping my clients to be gentle and compassionate towards themselves and exploring the ways they learned to cope, adapt and respond to the world is the first step towards recovering their true selves. Then the journey of awareness, introspection and healing can begin.
(408) 219-5213 View (408) 219-5213
Photo of Rebecca Mankowski - Mankowski Mental Health Clinic, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mankowski Mental Health Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Arden-Arcade, Sacramento, CA 95825
Rebecca Mankowski, LMFT, is the owner of MMHC, a Clinical Supervisor and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). As a former Graduate level instructor at CSUS, she teaches and effectively practices crisis and trauma counseling, assessment, diagnosis and treatment of most DSM V disorders. She has extensive experience working with clients from various socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. With experience in the Peace Corps, she is comfortable working globally having lived and traveled on three continents and 17 countries.
Rebecca Mankowski, LMFT, is the owner of MMHC, a Clinical Supervisor and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). As a former Graduate level instructor at CSUS, she teaches and effectively practices crisis and trauma counseling, assessment, diagnosis and treatment of most DSM V disorders. She has extensive experience working with clients from various socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. With experience in the Peace Corps, she is comfortable working globally having lived and traveled on three continents and 17 countries.
(916) 675-3807 View (916) 675-3807
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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.