Transgender Therapists in San Diego, CA
Pamuela Halliwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92103
Waitlist for new clients
I am a transgender therapist embarking on my own personal journey to transitioning.
I think we all can have a time in our lives where we reach a problem or a series of problems and are faced with the question of "how do I get through this?" or "what should I do?" Regardless of what brought you to that crossroad, therapy is a useful means to help you figure out what to do next. Your time is important and your life is meant to be full of happiness. We all are transitioning from something and have to make the choice about what is best for us. Live your life and enjoy it.
I am a transgender therapist embarking on my own personal journey to transitioning.
I think we all can have a time in our lives where we reach a problem or a series of problems and are faced with the question of "how do I get through this?" or "what should I do?" Regardless of what brought you to that crossroad, therapy is a useful means to help you figure out what to do next. Your time is important and your life is meant to be full of happiness. We all are transitioning from something and have to make the choice about what is best for us. Live your life and enjoy it.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist registered with the California Behavioral Board of Science and a transgender retired combat vet.
Have you ever felt invisible? Even to the people who matter to you most? Are you interested in making a change in your life? Or finding/creating the new you? I believe that we are all on our own heroic journey in search of our own unique calling. My passion is to assist you in your journey and to help you find the treasure buried within you.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist registered with the California Behavioral Board of Science and a transgender retired combat vet.
Have you ever felt invisible? Even to the people who matter to you most? Are you interested in making a change in your life? Or finding/creating the new you? I believe that we are all on our own heroic journey in search of our own unique calling. My passion is to assist you in your journey and to help you find the treasure buried within you.
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.
Adrian Belmes-Queer Affirming Care For Teens + Adults
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
5 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Adrian (he/him), and I specialize in working with transgender, gender non-conforming, and queer adults and teens.
My work is LGBTQ+ affirming, relationship diverse, trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink-aware, psychedelic-integrative, and from a harm-reduction perspective. I use a Psychodynamic approach, with elements of Narrative Therapy and IFS incorporated to support individual needs. I'm passionate about attachment, communication, and answering the big life questions.
My name is Adrian (he/him), and I specialize in working with transgender, gender non-conforming, and queer adults and teens.
My work is LGBTQ+ affirming, relationship diverse, trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink-aware, psychedelic-integrative, and from a harm-reduction perspective. I use a Psychodynamic approach, with elements of Narrative Therapy and IFS incorporated to support individual needs. I'm passionate about attachment, communication, and answering the big life questions.
I offer therapy to individuals exploring various aspects of gender ( transgender, cisgender, and gender diverse) and sexuality (LGBTQ+, ENM/Poly) as well as general mental health.
I have specialized training in gender and sexuality, with a focus on supporting diverse life transitions and experiences. This includes queer and trans individuals, parents and partners of LGBTQ+ individuals, practitioners of ethical non-monogamy, and those involved in kink. I also work with issues related to general mental health.
I offer therapy to individuals exploring various aspects of gender ( transgender, cisgender, and gender diverse) and sexuality (LGBTQ+, ENM/Poly) as well as general mental health.
I have specialized training in gender and sexuality, with a focus on supporting diverse life transitions and experiences. This includes queer and trans individuals, parents and partners of LGBTQ+ individuals, practitioners of ethical non-monogamy, and those involved in kink. I also work with issues related to general mental health.
As queer, transgender, Asian American, and neurodivergent, my therapeutic stance combines my professional and personal experiences with what I learn from you so we may co-create the best approach.
And since there is no way around the fact we live in a society, therapy must also confront our responsibility to ourselves, our community, and the external factors that narrow our choices in the first place. Given my identities and training, I can offer a unique perspective on both the process of therapy and the environmental pressures we face.
As queer, transgender, Asian American, and neurodivergent, my therapeutic stance combines my professional and personal experiences with what I learn from you so we may co-create the best approach.
And since there is no way around the fact we live in a society, therapy must also confront our responsibility to ourselves, our community, and the external factors that narrow our choices in the first place. Given my identities and training, I can offer a unique perspective on both the process of therapy and the environmental pressures we face.
I provide services that span from therapy for depression, anxiety, transgender related issues, women's issues, adolescent issues, trauma, addiction, to serious or terminal heath issues.
I treat most issues, however, I specialize in teens, adults, the transgender population, women's issues, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and addiction. For transgender clients, I am able to provide documentation to assist with your gender affirming surgery requirements.
I provide services that span from therapy for depression, anxiety, transgender related issues, women's issues, adolescent issues, trauma, addiction, to serious or terminal heath issues.
I treat most issues, however, I specialize in teens, adults, the transgender population, women's issues, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and addiction. For transgender clients, I am able to provide documentation to assist with your gender affirming surgery requirements.
The majority of my practice is working with the Transgender Community.
Thank you for taking a look at my profile! My name is Joey Ritkes (he/him) and I am a mental health therapist who specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ Community. My approach in working with clients is to create a safe, affirming, and welcoming space where clients feel comfortable sharing. I tailor the approach to fit the individual client. I celebrate the fact that everyone is unique and deserves an approach that meets their own individual needs. I prefer to work collaboratively with you to develop a plan that honors your specific goals.
The majority of my practice is working with the Transgender Community.
Thank you for taking a look at my profile! My name is Joey Ritkes (he/him) and I am a mental health therapist who specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ Community. My approach in working with clients is to create a safe, affirming, and welcoming space where clients feel comfortable sharing. I tailor the approach to fit the individual client. I celebrate the fact that everyone is unique and deserves an approach that meets their own individual needs. I prefer to work collaboratively with you to develop a plan that honors your specific goals.
I am also a trained Gender Therapist and enjoy working with gender-expansive and transgender youth and adults seeking support for their gender identity and/or transition process.
Over the past 10 years, I have received training and experience in working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I have extensive experience working with mood/anxiety disorders, personality disorders, gender issues, and high conflict couples. I have received specialized training in DBT, Prolonged Exposure, and L2 Gottman Method for couples.
I am also a trained Gender Therapist and enjoy working with gender-expansive and transgender youth and adults seeking support for their gender identity and/or transition process.
Over the past 10 years, I have received training and experience in working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I have extensive experience working with mood/anxiety disorders, personality disorders, gender issues, and high conflict couples. I have received specialized training in DBT, Prolonged Exposure, and L2 Gottman Method for couples.
I also enjoy working with the LGBT community, specifically with Transgender people and their families.
I provide services to a variety of populations: LGBT and straight, Vets, Active Duty Military, Transgender men and women, families and couples with a member who is Transgender. I am Kink and Polyamorous friendly. I use - Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR and have 5 years of DBT skills training experience.
I also enjoy working with the LGBT community, specifically with Transgender people and their families.
I provide services to a variety of populations: LGBT and straight, Vets, Active Duty Military, Transgender men and women, families and couples with a member who is Transgender. I am Kink and Polyamorous friendly. I use - Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR and have 5 years of DBT skills training experience.
I am passionate about creating a safe, affirming, and empowering space for LGBTQ+ and transgender individuals, polyamorous and non-monogamous relationships, those exploring their personal and relational identities, and people from all walks of life seeking deeper understanding, meaningful connections, and inner healing.
My approach is integrative and holistic, emphasizing the connection between mind, body, and spirit. I believe healing occurs when we honor all aspects of ourselves—thoughts, emotions, physical experiences, and personal narratives. Together, we’ll address challenges, build resilience, nurture self-compassion, and cultivate tools for growth tailored to you.
I am passionate about creating a safe, affirming, and empowering space for LGBTQ+ and transgender individuals, polyamorous and non-monogamous relationships, those exploring their personal and relational identities, and people from all walks of life seeking deeper understanding, meaningful connections, and inner healing.
My approach is integrative and holistic, emphasizing the connection between mind, body, and spirit. I believe healing occurs when we honor all aspects of ourselves—thoughts, emotions, physical experiences, and personal narratives. Together, we’ll address challenges, build resilience, nurture self-compassion, and cultivate tools for growth tailored to you.
I also specialize in working with transgender, nonbinary, and other gender-diverse clients.
As a therapist, I offer a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can feel safe exploring your concerns. I believe in empowering individuals to understand their challenges and develop the skills to create lasting change. My approach integrates person-centered and trauma-informed care, and I have proficiencies in cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I particularly enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to deepen their self-awareness and create meaningful change in their lives. I am committed to providing accessible treatment with a sliding scale fee ranging from $50-$100 per 60-minute session.
I also specialize in working with transgender, nonbinary, and other gender-diverse clients.
As a therapist, I offer a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can feel safe exploring your concerns. I believe in empowering individuals to understand their challenges and develop the skills to create lasting change. My approach integrates person-centered and trauma-informed care, and I have proficiencies in cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I particularly enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to deepen their self-awareness and create meaningful change in their lives. I am committed to providing accessible treatment with a sliding scale fee ranging from $50-$100 per 60-minute session.
LGBTQ+, EMDR certified, trauma, Religious trauma, neurodivergent, gender dysphoria, depression, anxiety in California, Oregon, and Wisconsin.
My connection with my clients drives me to work with people. I want to know who you are, even if you don’t fully understand that yet. My core values in therapy include authenticity, empathy, safety, professionalism, and growth. I disclose parts of me that help clients feel comfortable with themselves and know they are in a safe, non-judgmental space.
LGBTQ+, EMDR certified, trauma, Religious trauma, neurodivergent, gender dysphoria, depression, anxiety in California, Oregon, and Wisconsin.
My connection with my clients drives me to work with people. I want to know who you are, even if you don’t fully understand that yet. My core values in therapy include authenticity, empathy, safety, professionalism, and growth. I disclose parts of me that help clients feel comfortable with themselves and know they are in a safe, non-judgmental space.
Our clinicians have specialized training working within transgender and gender expansive community.
At QGB Therapy LLC, Dr. Bailey and associates specialize in offering culturally humble therapy for those navigating personality disorders (including borderline personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorder), those with complex and/or relational trauma, and folks struggling with anxiety or uncertainty about the future. Their approach is non-directive and grounded in the belief that we are all capable of healing when we feel safe and understood within ourselves and by another. We are also happy to provide services and hold space for those who may not have or desire diagnosis.
Our clinicians have specialized training working within transgender and gender expansive community.
At QGB Therapy LLC, Dr. Bailey and associates specialize in offering culturally humble therapy for those navigating personality disorders (including borderline personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorder), those with complex and/or relational trauma, and folks struggling with anxiety or uncertainty about the future. Their approach is non-directive and grounded in the belief that we are all capable of healing when we feel safe and understood within ourselves and by another. We are also happy to provide services and hold space for those who may not have or desire diagnosis.
As a black queer transgender therapist, I am dedicated to supporting folks with marginalized identities in a therapeutic capacity.
How would you rate the quality of your relationships at this moment? Do you enjoy your own company? How is your connection with your family? Do you feel you are connected to a particular community? Any community? Let's explore the various manifestations of loneliness and intimacy. Your overall well-being is determined by the status of your intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships. I want to work with you to create the life you deserve & desire - let's work toward it together.
As a black queer transgender therapist, I am dedicated to supporting folks with marginalized identities in a therapeutic capacity.
How would you rate the quality of your relationships at this moment? Do you enjoy your own company? How is your connection with your family? Do you feel you are connected to a particular community? Any community? Let's explore the various manifestations of loneliness and intimacy. Your overall well-being is determined by the status of your intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships. I want to work with you to create the life you deserve & desire - let's work toward it together.
I am a Licensed Therapist and Gender Specialist with a decade of experience specializing in Gender Dysphoria, complex trauma, depression, anxiety and disordered eating across the entire lifespan.
I offer a holistic clinical experience that fuses traditional clinical practices (psychodynamic therapy, CBT and DBT) with intuitive forms of healing (mindfulness, spirituality and energy work). I aim to guide you in identifying the root causes of your suffering and developing the skills needed to heal from trauma and thrive.
I am a Licensed Therapist and Gender Specialist with a decade of experience specializing in Gender Dysphoria, complex trauma, depression, anxiety and disordered eating across the entire lifespan.
I offer a holistic clinical experience that fuses traditional clinical practices (psychodynamic therapy, CBT and DBT) with intuitive forms of healing (mindfulness, spirituality and energy work). I aim to guide you in identifying the root causes of your suffering and developing the skills needed to heal from trauma and thrive.
I work with youth, adults, families and couples seeking support with gender dysphoria, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
Let's work on becoming your fiercest self! Youth and adults within marginalized communities can grow up learning messages that bring shame and hate for being different. These toxic messages can manifest into low self-esteem, people pleasing, perfectionism, distress and even spiraling thoughts that cause anxiety and depression. When someone follows in the path of shame it can be feel like they are abandoning parts of themselves or all together. I can help you to develop tools and an approach to identify those parts of yourself that are waiting to be heard and seen. If you're ready to do this work I can support you in your process.
I work with youth, adults, families and couples seeking support with gender dysphoria, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
Let's work on becoming your fiercest self! Youth and adults within marginalized communities can grow up learning messages that bring shame and hate for being different. These toxic messages can manifest into low self-esteem, people pleasing, perfectionism, distress and even spiraling thoughts that cause anxiety and depression. When someone follows in the path of shame it can be feel like they are abandoning parts of themselves or all together. I can help you to develop tools and an approach to identify those parts of yourself that are waiting to be heard and seen. If you're ready to do this work I can support you in your process.
I work well with couples, families, adolescents, young adults, older adults, survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence, members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and intersex (GLBTQQI) community, active duty servicemembers and veterans of the U
"There is no normal life that is free of pain. It's the very wrestling with our problems that can be the IMPETUS for our growth." (Mister Rogers). Approaching mental health and psychotherapy from a person-centered, solution-focused, and action-oriented perspective allows me to assist individuals from diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds with creating and maintaining fulfilling relationships while sustaining a balanced life.
I work well with couples, families, adolescents, young adults, older adults, survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence, members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and intersex (GLBTQQI) community, active duty servicemembers and veterans of the U
"There is no normal life that is free of pain. It's the very wrestling with our problems that can be the IMPETUS for our growth." (Mister Rogers). Approaching mental health and psychotherapy from a person-centered, solution-focused, and action-oriented perspective allows me to assist individuals from diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds with creating and maintaining fulfilling relationships while sustaining a balanced life.
Special training and experience in transgender services, religious trauma, bereavement, depression management, DBT skills.
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! I’m into developing self-compassion, and balancing boundaries with deep connection. I believe laughter is healing, tears can be restorative, and swearing can be cathartic (sometimes all in one session!). So let’s chat. Visit my website for more info or Instagram at theagnostictherapist to get to know me better.
Special training and experience in transgender services, religious trauma, bereavement, depression management, DBT skills.
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! I’m into developing self-compassion, and balancing boundaries with deep connection. I believe laughter is healing, tears can be restorative, and swearing can be cathartic (sometimes all in one session!). So let’s chat. Visit my website for more info or Instagram at theagnostictherapist to get to know me better.
I have an extensive background working with minorities, including sexual minorities, transgender youth/adults, and their families, with expertise in navigating the transitioning process, and beyond.
I recognize that coming to therapy is a courageous first step and that you are taking a chance when you make that first appointment, especially when you are struggling. I consider it an honor to be entrusted by one seeking help. I demonstrate that honor by being committed to providing you with practical feedback in an empathetic and compassionate manner. With cognitive behavioral strategies, I provide techniques to manage and reduce negative symptoms by tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs.
I have an extensive background working with minorities, including sexual minorities, transgender youth/adults, and their families, with expertise in navigating the transitioning process, and beyond.
I recognize that coming to therapy is a courageous first step and that you are taking a chance when you make that first appointment, especially when you are struggling. I consider it an honor to be entrusted by one seeking help. I demonstrate that honor by being committed to providing you with practical feedback in an empathetic and compassionate manner. With cognitive behavioral strategies, I provide techniques to manage and reduce negative symptoms by tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- Del Mar
- El Cajon
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- National City
- Poway
- Rancho Santa Fe
- Santee
- Solana Beach
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.