LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in San Jose, CA

Photo of Albert Pignataro, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Albert Pignataro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95125
Maybe you’re a professional under constant pressure, a man wrestling with what strength really means, or someone in the LGBTQ+ community wanting an affirming, judgment-free space.
I help thoughtful adults untangle anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, relationship and identity struggles. My style is direct, engaged, and grounded. We’ll get to the root of what keeps you stuck — then shift it with real insight plus action. No endless circling. Just real traction that lasts.
Maybe you’re a professional under constant pressure, a man wrestling with what strength really means, or someone in the LGBTQ+ community wanting an affirming, judgment-free space.
I help thoughtful adults untangle anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, relationship and identity struggles. My style is direct, engaged, and grounded. We’ll get to the root of what keeps you stuck — then shift it with real insight plus action. No endless circling. Just real traction that lasts.
(408) 831-3315 View (408) 831-3315
Photo of Serenity Serseción, Psychologist, PhD
Serenity Serseción
Psychologist, PhD
San Jose, CA 95128
They work with the following communities: LGBTQ+ population, polyamory community, Latinx community, DID/ plural community, geek community, video game community, and various others.
In their clinical practice, they focus on adults working through life transitions, questioning gender and/or sexuality, trauma history, dissociation, anxiety, and depression. They provide individual therapy. Regarding theoretical orientation, they use cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic theory.
They work with the following communities: LGBTQ+ population, polyamory community, Latinx community, DID/ plural community, geek community, video game community, and various others.
In their clinical practice, they focus on adults working through life transitions, questioning gender and/or sexuality, trauma history, dissociation, anxiety, and depression. They provide individual therapy. Regarding theoretical orientation, they use cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic theory.
(650) 946-1649 View (650) 946-1649
Photo of Andrés Gonzalez - Andy Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Andy Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
San Jose, CA 95126
Many of my clients are Latino/x and/or identify within the LGBTQ+ community.
Clients in my practice want something to change. They feel unhappy, lonely, unsatisfied, irritable, lost, stuck, overwhelmed, unmotivated, isolated, inauthentic, and hopeless. They might struggle to know what they're feeling or want/need. They may use terms such as trauma, depressed, stressed, anxious, numb, angry, grieving, and anxious/avoidant attachment styles. They seek to feel like a whole person and in charge of life. They seek to unlearn unconscious and unhelpful habits. They wish to grow and nurture their relationships with others and themselves. They desire to feel more at peace, joy, and be able to tolerate the challenges.
Many of my clients are Latino/x and/or identify within the LGBTQ+ community.
Clients in my practice want something to change. They feel unhappy, lonely, unsatisfied, irritable, lost, stuck, overwhelmed, unmotivated, isolated, inauthentic, and hopeless. They might struggle to know what they're feeling or want/need. They may use terms such as trauma, depressed, stressed, anxious, numb, angry, grieving, and anxious/avoidant attachment styles. They seek to feel like a whole person and in charge of life. They seek to unlearn unconscious and unhelpful habits. They wish to grow and nurture their relationships with others and themselves. They desire to feel more at peace, joy, and be able to tolerate the challenges.
(408) 676-2833 View (408) 676-2833
Photo of Joseph Antico, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Joseph Antico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I have years of experience working with various populations: individuals, substance use/harm reduction, couples, non-traditional relationships, families, medical social work, crisis interventions, persistent mental health issues, veterans, homelessness, LGBTQIA+ community, etc.
As a compassionate and experienced psychotherapist, I bring a holistic approach to helping people navigate life’s challenges and to build stronger social skills/emotional wellness. I'm a fully licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I retained my master's of social work at the University of Georgia in 2019 and my bachelor's degree in psychology in 2013.
I have years of experience working with various populations: individuals, substance use/harm reduction, couples, non-traditional relationships, families, medical social work, crisis interventions, persistent mental health issues, veterans, homelessness, LGBTQIA+ community, etc.
As a compassionate and experienced psychotherapist, I bring a holistic approach to helping people navigate life’s challenges and to build stronger social skills/emotional wellness. I'm a fully licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I retained my master's of social work at the University of Georgia in 2019 and my bachelor's degree in psychology in 2013.
(650) 353-9614 View (650) 353-9614
Photo of Bailey Franklin, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Bailey Franklin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I also specialize in supporting the unique concerns and strengths of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am a level 2 practitioner of Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP). My work with couples integrates elements of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Collaborative Couple Therapy. My approach is Consensual Non-Monogamy, Polyamory and Kink affirmative. I also have extensive training with Motivational Interviewing for substance use issues.
I also specialize in supporting the unique concerns and strengths of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am a level 2 practitioner of Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP). My work with couples integrates elements of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Collaborative Couple Therapy. My approach is Consensual Non-Monogamy, Polyamory and Kink affirmative. I also have extensive training with Motivational Interviewing for substance use issues.
(213) 583-5318 View (213) 583-5318
Photo of Satveer Kler, Psychological Associate, PhD
Satveer Kler
Psychological Associate, PhD
6 Endorsed
Online Only
As a queer BIPOC individual/child of immigrants, you carry the weight of family, culture, and survival while longing to just be.
As a queer person of color and adult child of immigrants, former grind culture subscriber, and award-winning research expert on intergenerational trauma, I am here to support you in lightening your load. You are ready to break generational cycles, slow down the anxiety of being on the go 24/7, and cultivating a life of softness instead of survival mode.
As a queer BIPOC individual/child of immigrants, you carry the weight of family, culture, and survival while longing to just be.
As a queer person of color and adult child of immigrants, former grind culture subscriber, and award-winning research expert on intergenerational trauma, I am here to support you in lightening your load. You are ready to break generational cycles, slow down the anxiety of being on the go 24/7, and cultivating a life of softness instead of survival mode.
(415) 985-1120 View (415) 985-1120
Photo of Michael Lysaght, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Michael Lysaght
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
6 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95125
LGBTQ+ people can be comfortable sitting with a therapist who belongs to their community, can identify with many shared struggles and triumphs and understands the needs of queer people.
I have a long history of treating individuals and couples, in Silicon Valley and beyond. I offer office visits in Sacramento and San Jose (Saturdays), and provide telehealth throughout CA, NV, OR, WA, CO and FL . Often, we expect far too much from ourselves. Clients are invited into a space without expectation and where they are free to be themselves, without fear of judgement or misunderstanding. We can sometimes struggle to find space to hold compassion for ourselves amidst our roles (parent, spouse, manager, executive).
LGBTQ+ people can be comfortable sitting with a therapist who belongs to their community, can identify with many shared struggles and triumphs and understands the needs of queer people.
I have a long history of treating individuals and couples, in Silicon Valley and beyond. I offer office visits in Sacramento and San Jose (Saturdays), and provide telehealth throughout CA, NV, OR, WA, CO and FL . Often, we expect far too much from ourselves. Clients are invited into a space without expectation and where they are free to be themselves, without fear of judgement or misunderstanding. We can sometimes struggle to find space to hold compassion for ourselves amidst our roles (parent, spouse, manager, executive).
(415) 723-4141 View (415) 723-4141
Photo of Dr. Sam del Castillo, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Sam del Castillo
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95125
Particularly trans/nonbinary, LGBTQ+, immigrants/children of immigrants, and BIPOC.
My approach is collaborative - it is crucial to me that you feel understood and supported in our work. I attune to culture, religion, and all parts of who you are. I am direct, yet warm, and use humor when possible. I draw from psychodynamic, feminist theory, and somatic approaches. I have training in DBT and CBT and occasionally use these as well.
Particularly trans/nonbinary, LGBTQ+, immigrants/children of immigrants, and BIPOC.
My approach is collaborative - it is crucial to me that you feel understood and supported in our work. I attune to culture, religion, and all parts of who you are. I am direct, yet warm, and use humor when possible. I draw from psychodynamic, feminist theory, and somatic approaches. I have training in DBT and CBT and occasionally use these as well.
(650) 563-6067 View (650) 563-6067
Photo of Myles Marcotte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Myles Marcotte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a trans-identified therapist who is passionate about supporting LGBTQIA clients.
My approach to therapy is person-centered, strengths-based, non-pathologizing, and informed by the impacts of trauma and social systems. From my perspective, you are the expert on your own life experience. I am here to collaborate with you by bringing my clinical and lived experience to help you reach your goals.
I am a trans-identified therapist who is passionate about supporting LGBTQIA clients.
My approach to therapy is person-centered, strengths-based, non-pathologizing, and informed by the impacts of trauma and social systems. From my perspective, you are the expert on your own life experience. I am here to collaborate with you by bringing my clinical and lived experience to help you reach your goals.
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Photo of Christine Parker, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Christine Parker
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I also support queer folx navigating identity, grief, and belonging after harmful religious experiences.
You tried to silence your doubts about your faith, but they only got louder. You kept obeying God, hoping the fear would fade—but it didn’t. You feel grief, confusion, maybe even shame. The people you once trusted don’t understand—or they’re the ones who caused the harm. If you’re deconstructing or untangling the impact of conservative religion, you’ve come to the right place. I specialize in helping individuals heal from religious trauma, spiritual abuse, high-control faith systems, and purity culture.
I also support queer folx navigating identity, grief, and belonging after harmful religious experiences.
You tried to silence your doubts about your faith, but they only got louder. You kept obeying God, hoping the fear would fade—but it didn’t. You feel grief, confusion, maybe even shame. The people you once trusted don’t understand—or they’re the ones who caused the harm. If you’re deconstructing or untangling the impact of conservative religion, you’ve come to the right place. I specialize in helping individuals heal from religious trauma, spiritual abuse, high-control faith systems, and purity culture.
(858) 422-3917 View (858) 422-3917
Photo of Tianjiao Sun, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Tianjiao Sun
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
I work with immigrants, high-achievers, highly sensitive people, people who struggle to see their value, people dealing with relationship distress, and the LGBTQIA community.
I use an integrated approach, including but not limited to Psychodynamic Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic Therapy, and Family and Couples Therapy. I work on codependency, relationship issues, separation, depression, low self-worth, feeling of emptiness, shame & guilt, anxiety & fear, coping with uncertainty, stress, perfectionism, low motivation & procrastination,
I work with immigrants, high-achievers, highly sensitive people, people who struggle to see their value, people dealing with relationship distress, and the LGBTQIA community.
I use an integrated approach, including but not limited to Psychodynamic Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic Therapy, and Family and Couples Therapy. I work on codependency, relationship issues, separation, depression, low self-worth, feeling of emptiness, shame & guilt, anxiety & fear, coping with uncertainty, stress, perfectionism, low motivation & procrastination,
(562) 516-1041 View (562) 516-1041
Photo of John Vargas, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
John Vargas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
19 Endorsed
Online Only
I also specialize in LGBTQIA+ and Latino/e/x mental health.
Are you looking for a space to express how you actually feel? Seeking self-improvement but not sure where to start? Whether it's anxiety, depression, grief, a breakup, or past trauma weighing you down, we can explore these areas one step at a time. Sometimes, we feel so stuck that it’s hard to voice our feelings or needs. You’re not alone, let’s figure it out together! Asking for support is the first step on your healing journey. Reach out to schedule a free 15-minute video consultation!
I also specialize in LGBTQIA+ and Latino/e/x mental health.
Are you looking for a space to express how you actually feel? Seeking self-improvement but not sure where to start? Whether it's anxiety, depression, grief, a breakup, or past trauma weighing you down, we can explore these areas one step at a time. Sometimes, we feel so stuck that it’s hard to voice our feelings or needs. You’re not alone, let’s figure it out together! Asking for support is the first step on your healing journey. Reach out to schedule a free 15-minute video consultation!
(916) 796-4847 View (916) 796-4847
Photo of Jonathan Boland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, MPH
Jonathan Boland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, MPH
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with all populations, but I specialize in trauma, EMDR, sexuality, and LGBTQ.
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you feel like a prisoner of your past? Have traumatic events taken over your life? You're not alone. Life doesn’t have to be this way. I can guide you through the transformation of becoming who you were meant to be, stepping fully into your joy. I'll give you the courage you need to be your true authentic self, always. I’ve helped hundreds of people just like you radically transform their lives, including those healing from trauma and people who desire a healthier sexual relationship with themselves and with others. I’m passionate about assisting others reach their full potential.
I work with all populations, but I specialize in trauma, EMDR, sexuality, and LGBTQ.
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you feel like a prisoner of your past? Have traumatic events taken over your life? You're not alone. Life doesn’t have to be this way. I can guide you through the transformation of becoming who you were meant to be, stepping fully into your joy. I'll give you the courage you need to be your true authentic self, always. I’ve helped hundreds of people just like you radically transform their lives, including those healing from trauma and people who desire a healthier sexual relationship with themselves and with others. I’m passionate about assisting others reach their full potential.
(310) 742-8451 View (310) 742-8451
Photo of Dr. Wonbin Jung, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Dr. Wonbin Jung
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Wonbin (she/her), a queer Asian therapist.
Therapy with me can be a place where all your parts get to exist—without judgment, without performance. In our work together, we’ll gently explore the beliefs and stories that have shaped your identity, relationships, and sense of self. Through narrative therapy, I’ll help you reconnect with your voice, set boundaries that honor your values.
Wonbin (she/her), a queer Asian therapist.
Therapy with me can be a place where all your parts get to exist—without judgment, without performance. In our work together, we’ll gently explore the beliefs and stories that have shaped your identity, relationships, and sense of self. Through narrative therapy, I’ll help you reconnect with your voice, set boundaries that honor your values.
(628) 244-9567 View (628) 244-9567
Photo of Megan Mills, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Megan Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you’re queer, trans, gender nonbinary, neurodivergent, disabled, chronically ill, fat, or bigger-bodied, you’re welcome here.
You might be searching for a therapist you can connect with, someone who shares similar identities to yours. I’m here to honor all parts of who you are and work together to find the right path to healing. Let’s explore practical tools to support you through your struggles and help you reach your goals.
If you’re queer, trans, gender nonbinary, neurodivergent, disabled, chronically ill, fat, or bigger-bodied, you’re welcome here.
You might be searching for a therapist you can connect with, someone who shares similar identities to yours. I’m here to honor all parts of who you are and work together to find the right path to healing. Let’s explore practical tools to support you through your struggles and help you reach your goals.
(408) 638-6486 View (408) 638-6486
Photo of Misty Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, WGS
Misty Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, WGS
6 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
I also specialize in working with the queer community, trans community, kink community, as well as working with poly, polyamory, and ethically non-monogamous ( ENM ) folks.
Sex and intimacy struggles? Communication challenges in your relationships? Are you questioning or exploring your gender and sexuality? I am here to support you and to collaborate with you. I provide a safe space to explore who you are becoming and to discern old thought patterns that are no longer of service. I provide a healing space free of judgement and offer tools that you can immediately integrate into your current experience. I will collaborate with you and work with the intersections of your unique experience.
I also specialize in working with the queer community, trans community, kink community, as well as working with poly, polyamory, and ethically non-monogamous ( ENM ) folks.
Sex and intimacy struggles? Communication challenges in your relationships? Are you questioning or exploring your gender and sexuality? I am here to support you and to collaborate with you. I provide a safe space to explore who you are becoming and to discern old thought patterns that are no longer of service. I provide a healing space free of judgement and offer tools that you can immediately integrate into your current experience. I will collaborate with you and work with the intersections of your unique experience.
(408) 583-5606 View (408) 583-5606
Photo of Michelle Renee Ibrahimi, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Michelle Renee Ibrahimi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
I work with adults coping with various issues including life transitions, identity, self confidence, trauma, grief, substance related issues and LGBTQ plus related issues.
I am passionate about guiding individuals toward development of full potential while facilitating understanding, growth and healing within interpersonal relationships. I specialize in issues related to life transitions, identity, mood disorders and anxiety.
I work with adults coping with various issues including life transitions, identity, self confidence, trauma, grief, substance related issues and LGBTQ plus related issues.
I am passionate about guiding individuals toward development of full potential while facilitating understanding, growth and healing within interpersonal relationships. I specialize in issues related to life transitions, identity, mood disorders and anxiety.
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Photo of Abby Jones, Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, NCC, RYT-200
Abby Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, NCC, RYT-200
4 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
I deeply value empowering LGBTQIA+ individuals to live openly and authentically.
I blend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with person-centered, narrative, and feminist approaches. I integrate creative approaches tailored to your needs, including mindfulness, art, yoga (RYT-200), dialectical behavior (DBT) strategies, and sensory based interventions. I strive to employ a Health at Every Size (HAES) and culturally sensitive approach.
I deeply value empowering LGBTQIA+ individuals to live openly and authentically.
I blend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with person-centered, narrative, and feminist approaches. I integrate creative approaches tailored to your needs, including mindfulness, art, yoga (RYT-200), dialectical behavior (DBT) strategies, and sensory based interventions. I strive to employ a Health at Every Size (HAES) and culturally sensitive approach.
(408) 944-5296 View (408) 944-5296
Photo of Veronica Ayala, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Veronica Ayala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
I specialize in supporting teens, young adults, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks.
Do you feel stuck, anxious in social situations, or afraid to speak up for fear of judgment? You don't have to face these challenges alone. Imagine feeling more confident, setting boundaries without guilt, and embracing your authentic self. In our work together, we'll explore what's holding you back, help you build self-worth, and develop tools to manage anxiety and reconnect with yourself. I provide a compassionate, supportive space where you can be heard and understood, resulting in you feeling empowered and connected—to yourself and others.
I specialize in supporting teens, young adults, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks.
Do you feel stuck, anxious in social situations, or afraid to speak up for fear of judgment? You don't have to face these challenges alone. Imagine feeling more confident, setting boundaries without guilt, and embracing your authentic self. In our work together, we'll explore what's holding you back, help you build self-worth, and develop tools to manage anxiety and reconnect with yourself. I provide a compassionate, supportive space where you can be heard and understood, resulting in you feeling empowered and connected—to yourself and others.
(408) 403-5578 View (408) 403-5578
Photo of Michelle K. Sandoval, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Michelle K. Sandoval
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95123
I am Michelle, your friendly Autistic queer therapist.
You are not the problem, you are having normal reactions to a world that was not designed for your success. By using trauma informed approaches, we work on breaking down these systems and healing from them. If you are ready for a therapist that will validate your lived experience and work to dismantle systems of harm
I am Michelle, your friendly Autistic queer therapist.
You are not the problem, you are having normal reactions to a world that was not designed for your success. By using trauma informed approaches, we work on breaking down these systems and healing from them. If you are ready for a therapist that will validate your lived experience and work to dismantle systems of harm
(951) 720-0843 View (951) 720-0843

See more therapy options for San Jose

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.