LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in San Francisco, CA
You’re a gay man in mid-life.
In sessions, you’ll get practical, evidence-based support—like learning how to sit with hard feelings, challenge the old scripts in your head, build solid boundaries, and get honest about what you want and what’s in the way. All of it tailored to your life. And if you want to go further between sessions, the Deep Dive Program is here to support you.
You’re a gay man in mid-life.
In sessions, you’ll get practical, evidence-based support—like learning how to sit with hard feelings, challenge the old scripts in your head, build solid boundaries, and get honest about what you want and what’s in the way. All of it tailored to your life. And if you want to go further between sessions, the Deep Dive Program is here to support you.
Are you carrying the weight of childhood trauma, addiction, LGBTQ+ struggles, or neurodivergence?
My approach is direct, practical, and deeply human. I want you to show up as yourself, without the pressure to mask or code-switch. I believe humor can be healing, and I aim to make this space one where you feel both challenged and supported. This process is a partnership, and we’ll work side by side to create real change.
Are you carrying the weight of childhood trauma, addiction, LGBTQ+ struggles, or neurodivergence?
My approach is direct, practical, and deeply human. I want you to show up as yourself, without the pressure to mask or code-switch. I believe humor can be healing, and I aim to make this space one where you feel both challenged and supported. This process is a partnership, and we’ll work side by side to create real change.
I specialize in working with Gay/ Queer men, individuals that are in the recovery process from substance use, and males around issues of masculinity, sex, and emotional vulnerability I have expertise in and experience with: Masculinity and other male issues Sex and sexuality Ethically non- monogamous/ polyamory relationships / Kink Substance abuse issues.
Human connection is the catalyst needed to explore any underlining psychic distress. In my psychotherapy practice, I prioritize fostering a collaborative relationship to provide emotional and personal safety, allowing you to dive beneath the surface to better understand the underlying causes of your personal distress. The goal is, through exploration, to create opportunities for you to become more self-aware of your own thoughts and feelings, empowering you to re-create new ways of connecting to yourself and loved ones
I specialize in working with Gay/ Queer men, individuals that are in the recovery process from substance use, and males around issues of masculinity, sex, and emotional vulnerability I have expertise in and experience with: Masculinity and other male issues Sex and sexuality Ethically non- monogamous/ polyamory relationships / Kink Substance abuse issues.
Human connection is the catalyst needed to explore any underlining psychic distress. In my psychotherapy practice, I prioritize fostering a collaborative relationship to provide emotional and personal safety, allowing you to dive beneath the surface to better understand the underlying causes of your personal distress. The goal is, through exploration, to create opportunities for you to become more self-aware of your own thoughts and feelings, empowering you to re-create new ways of connecting to yourself and loved ones
I am passionate about working with people from a wide range of backgrounds and have particular experience with the LGBTQ community, immigrants, and survivors of trauma and domestic violence.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward? Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, or unhelpful patterns that keep repeating, you’re not alone and healing is possible. I’m here to support you in finding clarity, insight, and connection. In our sessions, I offer warmth, openness, and sensitivity. You will have a space to feel seen, heard, and understood. We’ll start by getting attuned to your needs and goals, and together we’ll explore what’s holding you back while discovering new paths toward growth and self-acceptance. I use a humanistic and integrative approach based on what resonates most to you.
I am passionate about working with people from a wide range of backgrounds and have particular experience with the LGBTQ community, immigrants, and survivors of trauma and domestic violence.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward? Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, or unhelpful patterns that keep repeating, you’re not alone and healing is possible. I’m here to support you in finding clarity, insight, and connection. In our sessions, I offer warmth, openness, and sensitivity. You will have a space to feel seen, heard, and understood. We’ll start by getting attuned to your needs and goals, and together we’ll explore what’s holding you back while discovering new paths toward growth and self-acceptance. I use a humanistic and integrative approach based on what resonates most to you.
I work with adults, both younger and older, cis women and trans & non-binary clients, as well as with couples navigating problems in their relationships.
I have expertise in working particularly with gay & bisexual cisgender men as well as well as individuals coping with their HIV/AIDS diagnosis, and other chronic illnesses. Additionally, I have worked with survivors of trauma and interpersonal violence and offer the support and skills needed to recover emotionally.
I work with adults, both younger and older, cis women and trans & non-binary clients, as well as with couples navigating problems in their relationships.
I have expertise in working particularly with gay & bisexual cisgender men as well as well as individuals coping with their HIV/AIDS diagnosis, and other chronic illnesses. Additionally, I have worked with survivors of trauma and interpersonal violence and offer the support and skills needed to recover emotionally.
I have done a lot of my work with people who identify as Trans/Gender Non-Conforming/Nonbinary.
As a therapist, I interweave a variety of approaches depending on what is best going to serve my client. I am trained in Expressive Arts Therapy, Dance/Movement Therapy, Somatic Psychology, Yoga-Based Mindfulness Approaches, and integrative talk therapy. All the work I do is informed by a Queer feminist lens and Liberation Psychology. I also speak Spanish.
I have done a lot of my work with people who identify as Trans/Gender Non-Conforming/Nonbinary.
As a therapist, I interweave a variety of approaches depending on what is best going to serve my client. I am trained in Expressive Arts Therapy, Dance/Movement Therapy, Somatic Psychology, Yoga-Based Mindfulness Approaches, and integrative talk therapy. All the work I do is informed by a Queer feminist lens and Liberation Psychology. I also speak Spanish.
David Cato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, DARe
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a queer, neurodivergent trauma healing therapist.
The primary modalities I use are Somatic Experiencing (SE) and Dynamic Attachment Repatterning Experience (DARe), though I adapt to your need as I can. I find joy in supporting people in expanding their windows of tolerance as well as moving through difficult memories. Trauma healing looks different for everyone so extensive psychoeducation is provided.
I am a queer, neurodivergent trauma healing therapist.
The primary modalities I use are Somatic Experiencing (SE) and Dynamic Attachment Repatterning Experience (DARe), though I adapt to your need as I can. I find joy in supporting people in expanding their windows of tolerance as well as moving through difficult memories. Trauma healing looks different for everyone so extensive psychoeducation is provided.
I also bring a queer, feminist, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive/curious lens my work.
I believe that at the root of each of our individual selves is the desire to be and feel seen and valued for who we are - completely. There are many societal, historical, and familial barriers to this and I believe that looking introspectively at these obstacles and what is at the root of our presenting issues can greatly affect our well-being.
I also bring a queer, feminist, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive/curious lens my work.
I believe that at the root of each of our individual selves is the desire to be and feel seen and valued for who we are - completely. There are many societal, historical, and familial barriers to this and I believe that looking introspectively at these obstacles and what is at the root of our presenting issues can greatly affect our well-being.
I have experience treating anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and working with the LGBTQ community.
Are you experiencing issues related to stress, anxiety, depression, loss of identity, trauma, or lack of confidence? Are these issues causing you to neglect your own self-care, misuse substances, and/or isolate from family and friends? Do you need support with navigating personal or professional relationships? Are you exploring your sexual or gender identity? Managing a major life transition or preparing for one? These are the times when therapy can be helpful. We can work together to identify your goals, improve your quality of life, and develop a strong sense of self in the process.
I have experience treating anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and working with the LGBTQ community.
Are you experiencing issues related to stress, anxiety, depression, loss of identity, trauma, or lack of confidence? Are these issues causing you to neglect your own self-care, misuse substances, and/or isolate from family and friends? Do you need support with navigating personal or professional relationships? Are you exploring your sexual or gender identity? Managing a major life transition or preparing for one? These are the times when therapy can be helpful. We can work together to identify your goals, improve your quality of life, and develop a strong sense of self in the process.
I specialize in working with couples, Queer & LGBTQIA+ clients, anxiety, and depression.
I see therapy as an opportunity for transformative insight, creativity, self-expression, and healing. It is a place to process and move past the painful experience that stick with us and hold us back. My clients often show up to therapy because of a need for meaningful change in their lives, and a desire to feel happier and more fulfilled. You may find yourself struggling with self-doubt and a harsh, critical inner voice; feeling stuck, sad, far away, and disconnected; navigating a new or difficult circumstance such as death of a loved one; or wanting help to reduce conflict and improve communication with your partner.
I specialize in working with couples, Queer & LGBTQIA+ clients, anxiety, and depression.
I see therapy as an opportunity for transformative insight, creativity, self-expression, and healing. It is a place to process and move past the painful experience that stick with us and hold us back. My clients often show up to therapy because of a need for meaningful change in their lives, and a desire to feel happier and more fulfilled. You may find yourself struggling with self-doubt and a harsh, critical inner voice; feeling stuck, sad, far away, and disconnected; navigating a new or difficult circumstance such as death of a loved one; or wanting help to reduce conflict and improve communication with your partner.
From depression to anxiety, complex trauma, life transitions, LGBTQ+ specific matters, relationship challenges, or family of origin concerns, the area of focus meets the patient where they feel most agreeable.
Dr. Ryan M. Halquist (he/him) is a licensed clinical psychologist who provides gentle & compassionate psychotherapy to adults. Dr. Halquist has over 15 years of clinical experience within outpatient clinics, hospitals, schools, and residential programs. He uses a collaborative, eclectic approach with patients to help facilitate & foster a safe environment. This comfortable space allows the patient to identify and target various barriers in their life.
From depression to anxiety, complex trauma, life transitions, LGBTQ+ specific matters, relationship challenges, or family of origin concerns, the area of focus meets the patient where they feel most agreeable.
Dr. Ryan M. Halquist (he/him) is a licensed clinical psychologist who provides gentle & compassionate psychotherapy to adults. Dr. Halquist has over 15 years of clinical experience within outpatient clinics, hospitals, schools, and residential programs. He uses a collaborative, eclectic approach with patients to help facilitate & foster a safe environment. This comfortable space allows the patient to identify and target various barriers in their life.
I work with individuals, couples, and polycules in the LGBTQIA+ and gender-expansive communities and beyond.
Weekend availability! Reach out about specific days and times. If you’re struggling with relationships, work, emotions, or just existing in the world, you’re not alone. If you want to change, our work together can help you find a path forward. My approach is relational and person-centered, which means I believe you have the capacity to find resolutions inside yourself, and I'll support you as we explore together.
I work with individuals, couples, and polycules in the LGBTQIA+ and gender-expansive communities and beyond.
Weekend availability! Reach out about specific days and times. If you’re struggling with relationships, work, emotions, or just existing in the world, you’re not alone. If you want to change, our work together can help you find a path forward. My approach is relational and person-centered, which means I believe you have the capacity to find resolutions inside yourself, and I'll support you as we explore together.
My work is trauma-informed, LGBTQ+ affirming, and draws upon rich psychodynamic, somatic, transpersonal, and mindfulness-based theories and techniques.
There are many factors that can lead a person to therapy. Perhaps you’re experiencing a persistent feeling of fear, loneliness, or anxiety, but can’t quite put your finger on where it’s coming from. You may have experienced a recent change or loss of a loved one, relationship, or job that is profoundly impacting you. Or, it could be that the voice of your inner critic is so loud that they/she/he is all you hear.
My work is trauma-informed, LGBTQ+ affirming, and draws upon rich psychodynamic, somatic, transpersonal, and mindfulness-based theories and techniques.
There are many factors that can lead a person to therapy. Perhaps you’re experiencing a persistent feeling of fear, loneliness, or anxiety, but can’t quite put your finger on where it’s coming from. You may have experienced a recent change or loss of a loved one, relationship, or job that is profoundly impacting you. Or, it could be that the voice of your inner critic is so loud that they/she/he is all you hear.
I am a queer, autistic licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in high masking Autism, depression and anxiety, LGBTQIA issues, women’s health issues, and life transitions.
I enjoy working with adults via telemedicine across the State of California.
I am a queer, autistic licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in high masking Autism, depression and anxiety, LGBTQIA issues, women’s health issues, and life transitions.
I enjoy working with adults via telemedicine across the State of California.
My name is Peter Carnini (he, him, his), and I'm a licensed psychotherapist providing direct, interactive, authentic counseling and psychotherapy for gay, queer, and bisexual men in the San Francisco Bay Area.
You deserve more... and interactive, authentic help is available! Having helped a wide range of ethnic groups in 5 major LGBTQ mental health programs over the past 20+ years, I have a LOT of experience doing this kind of work and helping gay men overcome anxiety and depression, work through identity-related issues, and better cope with age-related concerns.
My name is Peter Carnini (he, him, his), and I'm a licensed psychotherapist providing direct, interactive, authentic counseling and psychotherapy for gay, queer, and bisexual men in the San Francisco Bay Area.
You deserve more... and interactive, authentic help is available! Having helped a wide range of ethnic groups in 5 major LGBTQ mental health programs over the past 20+ years, I have a LOT of experience doing this kind of work and helping gay men overcome anxiety and depression, work through identity-related issues, and better cope with age-related concerns.
I also have specialized experience working with LGBTQ+ clients, individuals and couples navigating polyamory and open relationships, gender identity (non binary and transgender), sexuality and sacred sexuality, and non traditional spiritual practices.
I have over 15 years of experience as a therapist working with clients from a broad range of backgrounds. I enjoy working with people who have wounding related to being at odds with societal expectations. I understand your struggle. You deserve to play your part in the world, and I love helping you to shed old patterns and own your worth.
I also have specialized experience working with LGBTQ+ clients, individuals and couples navigating polyamory and open relationships, gender identity (non binary and transgender), sexuality and sacred sexuality, and non traditional spiritual practices.
I have over 15 years of experience as a therapist working with clients from a broad range of backgrounds. I enjoy working with people who have wounding related to being at odds with societal expectations. I understand your struggle. You deserve to play your part in the world, and I love helping you to shed old patterns and own your worth.
I have extensive experience working with professionals and entrepreneurs, as well as members of the LGBTQ and Asian communities.
I understand how important it is for my clients to feel supported and be able to address their immediate concerns as quickly and as effectively as possible. I view therapy as a collaborative process where I work with my clients to acquire the appropriate coping skills for their present difficulties while gaining the understanding and insight needed to handle future challenges. By working together, I will help you to build on your strengths and expand your skills to not only cope with the obstacles in life, but to optimize your well-being and to reach for your full potential.
I have extensive experience working with professionals and entrepreneurs, as well as members of the LGBTQ and Asian communities.
I understand how important it is for my clients to feel supported and be able to address their immediate concerns as quickly and as effectively as possible. I view therapy as a collaborative process where I work with my clients to acquire the appropriate coping skills for their present difficulties while gaining the understanding and insight needed to handle future challenges. By working together, I will help you to build on your strengths and expand your skills to not only cope with the obstacles in life, but to optimize your well-being and to reach for your full potential.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ folks using a collaborative approach that recognizes the bigger picture, looking at how systemic oppression may contribute to your experience.
If you’ve been hurt by relationships in your past, you might notice that it shows up in how you connect with others now—whether it’s feeling anxious, always worried about being abandoned, or pushing people away when things get too close. These patterns often come from childhood, but they don't have to define your future. In therapy, we’ll look at how those past experiences shaped how you relate to others, and work on building healthier, more secure relationships. Together, we’ll create space for you to feel more connected and fulfilled in your current relationships.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ folks using a collaborative approach that recognizes the bigger picture, looking at how systemic oppression may contribute to your experience.
If you’ve been hurt by relationships in your past, you might notice that it shows up in how you connect with others now—whether it’s feeling anxious, always worried about being abandoned, or pushing people away when things get too close. These patterns often come from childhood, but they don't have to define your future. In therapy, we’ll look at how those past experiences shaped how you relate to others, and work on building healthier, more secure relationships. Together, we’ll create space for you to feel more connected and fulfilled in your current relationships.
Wonbin (she/her), a queer Asian therapist.
Therapy with me is where all your parts can exist—without shame, without performance. Together, we’ll untangle the stories and survival strategies that shaped you. Through narrative therapy and parts work, you’ll reclaim your voice and set boundaries that honor your true self.
Wonbin (she/her), a queer Asian therapist.
Therapy with me is where all your parts can exist—without shame, without performance. Together, we’ll untangle the stories and survival strategies that shaped you. Through narrative therapy and parts work, you’ll reclaim your voice and set boundaries that honor your true self.
I work with queer and neurodivergent clients who may be struggling to cope in spaces that are centered around cis/heteronormative or neurotypical folks.
How can we find joy and fulfillment when the world is so overwhelming? As a therapist, I feel a strong sense of duty to work towards changing larger systemic issues, not just the way we feel about them. I work with clients who want more out of life, but who may feel stuck imagining what “more” could even look like for themselves. In my practice, as well as in my own life, I prioritize rest and creative expression as acts of radial self care.
I work with queer and neurodivergent clients who may be struggling to cope in spaces that are centered around cis/heteronormative or neurotypical folks.
How can we find joy and fulfillment when the world is so overwhelming? As a therapist, I feel a strong sense of duty to work towards changing larger systemic issues, not just the way we feel about them. I work with clients who want more out of life, but who may feel stuck imagining what “more” could even look like for themselves. In my practice, as well as in my own life, I prioritize rest and creative expression as acts of radial self care.
See more therapy options for San Francisco
Nearby Gay Therapists Searches for San Francisco
- Alameda
- Albany
- Belvedere Tiburon
- Colma
- Daly City
- Emeryville
- Oakland
- Piedmont
- San Bruno
- Sausalito
- South San Francisco
- Tiburon
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.