LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Hilario (Rio) M., Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Hilario (Rio) M.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I come from a unique cultural background, being half Salvadorian and half Filipino, a first-generation child of immigrant parents, and part of the LGBTQ+ community.
Narrative Therapy is a collaborative, person-centered approach that honors your experiences and cultural background. Expect a diverse toolbox to help re-author your unique story, incorporating techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, insights from your upbringing, option for EMDR for trauma, and solution-focused therapies.
I come from a unique cultural background, being half Salvadorian and half Filipino, a first-generation child of immigrant parents, and part of the LGBTQ+ community.
Narrative Therapy is a collaborative, person-centered approach that honors your experiences and cultural background. Expect a diverse toolbox to help re-author your unique story, incorporating techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, insights from your upbringing, option for EMDR for trauma, and solution-focused therapies.
(619) 356-1982 View (619) 356-1982
Photo of Maegan K A Nelson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Maegan K A Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I have a particular interest in serving my community and meeting with people who identify as LGBTQIA+ and partnering with individuals who identify as transgender as an advocate within the medical and mental health systems.
Welcome! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing narrative therapy in California. I am committed to providing anti-racist, gender-affirming, respectful care to each person with whom I meet; and to help each person discover and remember the abilities they have, which can help them move through life despite the obstacles they may encounter. I am passionate about standing alongside the individuals, couples, and families I collaborate with against the problems that show up in their lives.
I have a particular interest in serving my community and meeting with people who identify as LGBTQIA+ and partnering with individuals who identify as transgender as an advocate within the medical and mental health systems.
Welcome! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing narrative therapy in California. I am committed to providing anti-racist, gender-affirming, respectful care to each person with whom I meet; and to help each person discover and remember the abilities they have, which can help them move through life despite the obstacles they may encounter. I am passionate about standing alongside the individuals, couples, and families I collaborate with against the problems that show up in their lives.
(619) 486-9710 View (619) 486-9710
Photo of Elizabeth Green, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Elizabeth Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Elizabeth is a multicultural nonbinary therapist specialized in providing affirming care for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, especially those who are gender expansive, as well as those experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem/worth, and challenges due to ADHD and/or Autism.
Elizabeth uses a humanistic client-centered approach in their practice with a social justice lens and post-modern CBT that centers emotions. Elizabeth will be a reflective and supportive guide through your journey.
Elizabeth is a multicultural nonbinary therapist specialized in providing affirming care for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, especially those who are gender expansive, as well as those experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem/worth, and challenges due to ADHD and/or Autism.
Elizabeth uses a humanistic client-centered approach in their practice with a social justice lens and post-modern CBT that centers emotions. Elizabeth will be a reflective and supportive guide through your journey.
(619) 350-0309 View (619) 350-0309
Photo of Harry Dixon - Rainbow Connection Counseling Collective, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Rainbow Connection Counseling Collective
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Online Only
Rainbow Connection Counseling Collective is a group of licensed queer and/or BIPOC therapists who are passionate about helping people heal and thrive.
We understand the unique challenges and experiences faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, and we tailor our therapy to meet your specific needs. Our therapeutic approach is warm, holistic, affirming, and accepting. We offer support for a wide range of concerns, including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and more.
Rainbow Connection Counseling Collective is a group of licensed queer and/or BIPOC therapists who are passionate about helping people heal and thrive.
We understand the unique challenges and experiences faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, and we tailor our therapy to meet your specific needs. Our therapeutic approach is warm, holistic, affirming, and accepting. We offer support for a wide range of concerns, including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and more.
(619) 404-4534 View (619) 404-4534
Photo of Joey Ritkes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Joey Ritkes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
San Diego, CA 92101
My name is Joey Ritkes (he/him) and I am a mental health therapist who specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ Community.
Mental health is complex and dynamic which means that we must be just as personalized in developing treatment strategies that meet your individual goals. Our days are excessively demanding, leaving us little time to focus on ourselves. My belief is that therapy is the perfect solution which places you at the center, even if only for one hour per week.
My name is Joey Ritkes (he/him) and I am a mental health therapist who specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ Community.
Mental health is complex and dynamic which means that we must be just as personalized in developing treatment strategies that meet your individual goals. Our days are excessively demanding, leaving us little time to focus on ourselves. My belief is that therapy is the perfect solution which places you at the center, even if only for one hour per week.
(760) 437-1207 View (760) 437-1207
Photo of Emily Ruth, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Emily Ruth
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults (particularly the queer community) for a wide range of concerns including recovery from substance abuse, trauma, stress, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and anxiety.
I utilize an integrative, mindful approach to psychotherapy. My aim is to facilitate understanding, empowerment, and embodiment in the areas of your life where you feel frustrated or stuck. I believe psychotherapy is an important part of a healthy life. Supervised by Katie Tone, Psy.D. (PSY27006)
I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults (particularly the queer community) for a wide range of concerns including recovery from substance abuse, trauma, stress, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and anxiety.
I utilize an integrative, mindful approach to psychotherapy. My aim is to facilitate understanding, empowerment, and embodiment in the areas of your life where you feel frustrated or stuck. I believe psychotherapy is an important part of a healthy life. Supervised by Katie Tone, Psy.D. (PSY27006)
(619) 304-6429 View (619) 304-6429
Photo of Herbert Schnabel, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Herbert Schnabel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I have a special passion for providing affirmative care for those in this community.
I am a trauma-informed therapist, trained in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) and EMDR. I find that these models of therapy work well together to promote insight and healing. I also use other methods such as mindfulness, play therapy, and art therapy to help clients access insight and vulnerability.
As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I have a special passion for providing affirmative care for those in this community.
I am a trauma-informed therapist, trained in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) and EMDR. I find that these models of therapy work well together to promote insight and healing. I also use other methods such as mindfulness, play therapy, and art therapy to help clients access insight and vulnerability.
(619) 404-5525 View (619) 404-5525
Photo of Jess Hudson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Jess Hudson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Online Only
As a queer, person of color and non-binary therapist, I take pride in providing a genuine, lighthearted, non-judgmental but direct approach to those managing mental health and/or relationship issues. I also specialize in LGBTQ+/GSRD (Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diverse) issues including gender therapy to the Trans community and their families/partners. I utilize an eclectic style with various modalities and interventions including DBT, CBT, IFS and whatever may be relevant for YOUR treatment and success.
As a queer, person of color and non-binary therapist, I take pride in providing a genuine, lighthearted, non-judgmental but direct approach to those managing mental health and/or relationship issues. I also specialize in LGBTQ+/GSRD (Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diverse) issues including gender therapy to the Trans community and their families/partners. I utilize an eclectic style with various modalities and interventions including DBT, CBT, IFS and whatever may be relevant for YOUR treatment and success.
(619) 333-5603 View (619) 333-5603
Photo of Red Galura, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Red Galura
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
As a queer, Filipino immigrant, l understand how our social identities impact our mental health.
Together we will expand your understanding of who you are and what's important to you as a great first step towards change. We will take our time to reflect on your experiences with self-worth, overthinking, and/or grief to reveal helpful elements that may have gone unnoticed in your story so far -qualities and strengths you can apply in order to take those next steps. By collaborating on solutions together, we will arrive with a clearer sense of what you need to have a richer connection with the people, values, strengths, cultures, relationships, and communities that are important to you and the life you want to live.
As a queer, Filipino immigrant, l understand how our social identities impact our mental health.
Together we will expand your understanding of who you are and what's important to you as a great first step towards change. We will take our time to reflect on your experiences with self-worth, overthinking, and/or grief to reveal helpful elements that may have gone unnoticed in your story so far -qualities and strengths you can apply in order to take those next steps. By collaborating on solutions together, we will arrive with a clearer sense of what you need to have a richer connection with the people, values, strengths, cultures, relationships, and communities that are important to you and the life you want to live.
(760) 652-9680 x6 View (760) 652-9680 x6
Photo of Harry Dixon, Counselor, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CST
Harry Dixon
Counselor, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CST
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a gay, poly, Korean American counselor, and I understand the unique needs of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC community.
As a minority therapist, I understand and speak directly to your unique perspectives. I understand how culture and sexuality intersect with mental health, and I can help you bring more fulfillment to your life. We can work towards solutions and lasting change. The highest compliment a client can give me is "you get me".
I am a gay, poly, Korean American counselor, and I understand the unique needs of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC community.
As a minority therapist, I understand and speak directly to your unique perspectives. I understand how culture and sexuality intersect with mental health, and I can help you bring more fulfillment to your life. We can work towards solutions and lasting change. The highest compliment a client can give me is "you get me".
(619) 514-4174 View (619) 514-4174
Photo of Aj Lewison, Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Aj Lewison
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
San Diego, CA 92120
I have experience working with LGBTQIA communities, Transitional-Age Youth, Neurodivergent communities, Students/Academia, and Domestic Violence situations.
I have specialties in the ACT modality, Narrative Therapy, Systems, and Solutions-Focused Therapy. I also utilize a feminist perspective to assist clients with gender identity exploration and transitioning.
I have experience working with LGBTQIA communities, Transitional-Age Youth, Neurodivergent communities, Students/Academia, and Domestic Violence situations.
I have specialties in the ACT modality, Narrative Therapy, Systems, and Solutions-Focused Therapy. I also utilize a feminist perspective to assist clients with gender identity exploration and transitioning.
(858) 758-8696 View (858) 758-8696
Photo of Hazel Wiesse-Pérez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hazel Wiesse-Pérez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I collaborate with LGBTQIA and BIPOC folks to work through old (and new) wounds that prevent you from becoming your true and most authentic self.
As a queer, trans, and Latinx therapist, I know what it means to live in a world that doesn’t fully value our worth. Our experiences, relationships, and systemic oppression impact our daily lives and sense of self. I want to help you tap into a deeper understanding of yourself and figure out pathways to joy and fulfillment.
I collaborate with LGBTQIA and BIPOC folks to work through old (and new) wounds that prevent you from becoming your true and most authentic self.
As a queer, trans, and Latinx therapist, I know what it means to live in a world that doesn’t fully value our worth. Our experiences, relationships, and systemic oppression impact our daily lives and sense of self. I want to help you tap into a deeper understanding of yourself and figure out pathways to joy and fulfillment.
(858) 251-8653 View (858) 251-8653
Photo of Tara Eileen McGrath, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Tara Eileen McGrath
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92176
Waitlist for new clients
If you are a queer person looking to manage anxiety, recover from religious trauma/religious harm, or you’re coming out later in life, you may be in the right place!
My focus is on helping members of the LGBTQ+ community. Many of my clients are trans or nonbinary. I have a special interest in helping folks who are recovering from the adverse effects of religion. As someone who is both EXvangelical and a queer survivor of purity culture, I have a perspective that my clients often appreciate.
If you are a queer person looking to manage anxiety, recover from religious trauma/religious harm, or you’re coming out later in life, you may be in the right place!
My focus is on helping members of the LGBTQ+ community. Many of my clients are trans or nonbinary. I have a special interest in helping folks who are recovering from the adverse effects of religion. As someone who is both EXvangelical and a queer survivor of purity culture, I have a perspective that my clients often appreciate.
(619) 486-3103 View (619) 486-3103
Photo of Jonathan D Raymondi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan D Raymondi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
I want to make sure we have fun along the way so if you think we might be a potential match I invite you to reach out and we can setup a time to meet via phone or video to ensure you feel comfortable and feel a connection - I also specialize in working with LGBTQ populations - I have extensive experience working with Trans (Masc & Fem), Gay, and Queer men
Do you value self-authenticity, self-improvement, and helping others but feel stuck and struggle at times with being overly critical with yourself, self-limiting beliefs, burnout, or seeking a higher connection with a community (friends, social groups, colleagues)? Maybe your seeking more purpose, value-aligned work or friendships?
I want to make sure we have fun along the way so if you think we might be a potential match I invite you to reach out and we can setup a time to meet via phone or video to ensure you feel comfortable and feel a connection - I also specialize in working with LGBTQ populations - I have extensive experience working with Trans (Masc & Fem), Gay, and Queer men
Do you value self-authenticity, self-improvement, and helping others but feel stuck and struggle at times with being overly critical with yourself, self-limiting beliefs, burnout, or seeking a higher connection with a community (friends, social groups, colleagues)? Maybe your seeking more purpose, value-aligned work or friendships?
(619) 651-9699 View (619) 651-9699
Photo of Kameron Kaveh, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kameron Kaveh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
Hi, I’m Kameron “Kam” Kaveh (LMFT), and I help individuals—especially LGBTQIA+ clients—navigate anxiety, perfectionism, identity questions, and religious trauma.
I use an integrative approach tailored to each person. During our initial work together, we’ll focus on uncovering stuck points—often rooted in earlier experiences—that may be keeping you from moving forward. Sessions include a blend of cognitive behavioral tools (CBT), emotional regulation skills from DBT, and a person-centered foundation that pr
Hi, I’m Kameron “Kam” Kaveh (LMFT), and I help individuals—especially LGBTQIA+ clients—navigate anxiety, perfectionism, identity questions, and religious trauma.
I use an integrative approach tailored to each person. During our initial work together, we’ll focus on uncovering stuck points—often rooted in earlier experiences—that may be keeping you from moving forward. Sessions include a blend of cognitive behavioral tools (CBT), emotional regulation skills from DBT, and a person-centered foundation that pr
(619) 949-1974 View (619) 949-1974
Photo of Kelly Hutton - Kelly Hutton, ADHD + Trauma Informed Therapist , Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kelly Hutton, ADHD + Trauma Informed Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92102
As a queer therapist I also have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community in therapy and enjoy being a safe space for those exploring queer or trans identities.
Thanks for visiting my page! I primarily work later in life diagnosis of ADHD in teens and adults. I am a neurodivergent therapist myself, and my lived experience helps me to empathize and relate to my clients deeply. I take an affirming lens in my sessions, combating stigma and ableism, and assisting my clients to become more fully themselves. ADHD can affect so much more than just productivity in school or work, it influences the way we show up in relationships and how we see and experience the world. It can be life changing to really understand how your ADHD brain works and how best to support yourself.
As a queer therapist I also have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community in therapy and enjoy being a safe space for those exploring queer or trans identities.
Thanks for visiting my page! I primarily work later in life diagnosis of ADHD in teens and adults. I am a neurodivergent therapist myself, and my lived experience helps me to empathize and relate to my clients deeply. I take an affirming lens in my sessions, combating stigma and ableism, and assisting my clients to become more fully themselves. ADHD can affect so much more than just productivity in school or work, it influences the way we show up in relationships and how we see and experience the world. It can be life changing to really understand how your ADHD brain works and how best to support yourself.
(619) 514-3659 View (619) 514-3659
Photo of Brainspotting Trauma Therapist Giselle Laguna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brainspotting Trauma Therapist Giselle Laguna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
I offer personalized support crafted for the LGBTQ+ and Latine communities.
Welcome to my page! Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, pain, relationship challenges, or cultural barriers? It can be incredibly tough to find a therapist who gets you. You deserve someone who empathizes with your experiences and works with you to overcome emotional burdens. I specialize in PTSD and trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and substance misuse. By integrating Brainspotting and my background in energy healing, I’ll help you navigate and transform your challenges into a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, leading you toward a more authentic and fulfilling life.
I offer personalized support crafted for the LGBTQ+ and Latine communities.
Welcome to my page! Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, pain, relationship challenges, or cultural barriers? It can be incredibly tough to find a therapist who gets you. You deserve someone who empathizes with your experiences and works with you to overcome emotional burdens. I specialize in PTSD and trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and substance misuse. By integrating Brainspotting and my background in energy healing, I’ll help you navigate and transform your challenges into a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, leading you toward a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(619) 473-2561 View (619) 473-2561
Photo of Ezak Marquez, Counselor, LPCC
Ezak Marquez
Counselor, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
(619) 329-9950 View (619) 329-9950
Photo of Melissa Pérez, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Melissa Pérez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
San Diego, CA 92110
As a Bilingual (Spanish & English), Queer Bisexual Mexican-American, & Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I understand that most of us want to feel seen, heard, & accepted.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC, particularly Latine. My therapy approach centers cultural humility, & social justice, abolition & liberation orientations (pro Palestine). I’m trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ identify affirming & poly-friendly. I am sex positive, & kink aware, & I follow a client’s lead in engaging in age appropriate discussions.
As a Bilingual (Spanish & English), Queer Bisexual Mexican-American, & Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I understand that most of us want to feel seen, heard, & accepted.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC, particularly Latine. My therapy approach centers cultural humility, & social justice, abolition & liberation orientations (pro Palestine). I’m trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ identify affirming & poly-friendly. I am sex positive, & kink aware, & I follow a client’s lead in engaging in age appropriate discussions.
(619) 724-4070 View (619) 724-4070
Photo of Riley Cormack, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Riley Cormack
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Online Only
Riley works with individuals, couples, families, and groups on a wide range of issues, including relationship concerns, sexuality, depression, personal development, LGBT issues, parenting, finances, business & career and more.
Riley also speaks on topics including narrative therapy and the Enneagram theory of personality.
Riley works with individuals, couples, families, and groups on a wide range of issues, including relationship concerns, sexuality, depression, personal development, LGBT issues, parenting, finances, business & career and more.
Riley also speaks on topics including narrative therapy and the Enneagram theory of personality.
(619) 378-7009 View (619) 378-7009

See more therapy options for San Diego

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.