LGBTQ+ Therapists in San Rafael, CA
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Nicole Minor- Expansive Therapy
Counselor, AMFT
Verified
Verified
Seeking therapy can be the first step on a healing journey and I hope to walk alongside you as you pursue personal growth. I believe that therapy can be a great way to access some of the tools that are already within us but that we may need help employing. I understand the importance of intersectionality as a
queer
Black woman and therapist and can understand how necessary it is to acknowledge the impact of intersecting identities when working with clients. I use an integrative approach to help clients feel empowered to re-frame their narrative and identify and process complex emotions.
Nicole Minor- Expansive Therapy
Counselor, AMFT
Verified
Verified
Seeking therapy can be the first step on a healing journey and I hope to walk alongside you as you pursue personal growth. I believe that therapy can be a great way to access some of the tools that are already within us but that we may need help employing. I understand the importance of intersectionality as a
queer
Black woman and therapist and can understand how necessary it is to acknowledge the impact of intersecting identities when working with clients. I use an integrative approach to help clients feel empowered to re-frame their narrative and identify and process complex emotions.
Not accepting new clients
Alejandra Luna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
As
LGBTQ
people we often find ourselves wondering "where do I belong in this world?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we don't feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder... when is this going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just don't get it. We really want someone who can connect to us and make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
Demetry Apostle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
Areas of Specialty • Adults and couples with relationship and intimacy issues • Adults during transitional points or lifespan experiences • Individuals with self-destructive patterns or substance use/misuse • Contemporary Family Planning & Parenting Consultation • Gender Affirmative Assessments, Psychotherapy & Consultation •
LGBTQ
& Q Adults and Youth.
Searching for new meaning and exploring life’s possibilities often stems from painful experiences from our past or current situations. I aspire to cultivate a safe environment with my clients so that they may explore new possibilities and develop an enriching curiosity about themselves. Reaching out for help takes strength and courage. I believe that helping my clients identify and sort through their issues while fostering their strengths is the catalyst that brings about the regenerative change they seek.
Christine Olson
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified
Verified
Hello and thank you for considering working with me! I am a social-justice minded, trauma-informed therapist with over 8 years working alongside individuals of diverse cultural identities. I am passionate about working with individuals in the
LGBTQIA
+ and gender expansive communities. I also have extensive experience working with individuals affected by trauma or PTSD, anxiety, depression, and issues related to adjustment or identity.
Jess Gioia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified
Verified
I have particular knowledge of the
LGBTQ
+, poly, kink and sex worker communities.
Do you want to better understand and love yourself? I can help you clarify your values, desires and goals, improve assertiveness and effectiveness in communication and gain skills and confidence to handle life’s stressors. This work can lead to improvement in symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, codependency and trauma/complex PTSD.
Waitlist for new clients
Julie S Lehman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified
Verified
I specialize in working affirmatively with sex and gender diversity and sex-positive communities (
LGBTQ
*, non-normative relationships, open/non-monogamous, burners, polyamory, polysexuality, asexuality, intersex, gender nonconformity/fluidity, BDSM/kink, leather, fetish, HIV+, HepC+, Herpes+). I welcome clients with issues around minority stress, neurodivergence, depression/anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, couples/multiple-partner relationships, parent/child relationships, family counseling. I also welcome those looking to heal sexual trauma or those working through sexual difficulties. I'm a well-trained integrative sex therapist.
Renee Spencer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified
6 Endorsed
Verified
6 Endorsed
You may be educated, even outwardly successful, but struggle to feel good about yourself, have difficulties with close relationships or just want more out of life. I believe it's human to struggle and that we all can benefit from self exploration. You stand to gain, and so does your partner, children, friends, even co-workers when you're bringing more of your best self to the game. My style is active and I bring humor and compassion to help you develop solutions as well as grow from your struggles. A seasoned therapist, my approach is flexible and practical, tailored to meet your needs. I'm
LGBTQIA
sensitive and welcoming.
Expansive Therapy- Start Therapy This Week
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, APCC, LCSW, LMFT, ACSW
Verified
Verified
We welcome all sexual and gender identities and make
LGBTQ
affirming space a priority.
Expansive Therapy is a bicoastal therapy practice with locations in New York City and Los Angeles. We offer online therapy to individuals and couples anywhere in New York State and California State. We have a diverse team of therapists offering a wide variety of modalities and specialties, and all of us are
LGBTQ
affirming. Our mission at Expansive Therapy is to create a safe space to heal and grow, to expand the things that are working, and to encourage personal freedom.
Skye Nashelsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
6 Endorsed
Verified
6 Endorsed
I use
LGBTQIA
+ affirming, social justice-oriented, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approaches.
You have the capacity to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life! There are multiple forms and layers of oppression that impact our daily lives and self worth. I support clients in acknowledging and addressing shame, grief, trauma, and anxiety. I specialize in issues concerning gender, sexuality, intimacy, relationships, and identity. As your therapist, I act as a support working collaboratively alongside you to identify goals, action steps and interventions tailored specifically to your individual needs and identity.
James K Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified
9 Endorsed
Verified
9 Endorsed
I am committed to cultivating cultural competence and affirming the
LGBTQ
+ community.
Do you have a lot of strengths but keeps hitting a wall? Many of my clients have difficulty recognizing and articulating their emotions, which can lead to difficulty making decisions, asserting their needs, or setting healthy boundaries. They may feel disconnected from themselves and others, as if they are not fully present, leading to problems in their relationships and even with themselves. They may feel like their issues are not significant enough to warrant attention, and they may feel guilty for asking for help. Most feel that they should be able to manage things on their own. Does any of this sound familiar?
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Expansive Therapy- Start Therapy This Week
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Gabriel Rabu
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India B. Gomez
Gina Borelli Moore
Christine Tomasello | Beachside Counseling
Waitlist for new clients
Kerry Graser
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified
Verified
I specialize in working with the
LGBTQ
community, and more specifically, gender nonconforming and
transgender
adolescents.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist with 15 years of experience working with adolescents and adults in a variety of settings, including private practice, non-profit and school-based counseling. I work with individuals, both long and short-term on issues of anxiety, depression, overcoming pain from the past, and a general feeling of being "stuck."
Jenny Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Many of us have been affected by mental health and/or substance abuse at some time in our lives. My practice was created so that individuals, couples and families could get support from someone who is experienced in the recovery process and has a true passion to help others and help people to find the best solutions to their own recovery. My specialty areas include those who are living with anxiety, depression, trauma and supporting those going through life changes (job, relationships etc.) Addiction and Co-Dependency is also a specialty area. I am an
LGBTQ
+ affirming therapist and welcome you to come as you are.
Danielle Aubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I provide therapy that is neurodivergent affirming;
LGBTQIA
+, non-binary, and
transgender
-affirming, and BIPOC-affirming.
Welcome! I work with Autistic and Neurodivergent adults seeking interactive therapy to address core life issues. My approach is warm, collaborative, and person-centered, with a focus on exploring self and finding meaning. I prioritize interactivity and aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to gain insights and build resilience. Let's work together to find strategies that honor your neurodivergent identity and help you thrive. Contact me to take the first step towards a more fulfilling life.
Ellis McCauley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified
Verified
I am committed to social justice,
LGBTQIA
-affirmation and awareness of the many ways systemic oppression impacts individual development and sense of safety.
I can help you to listen deeply to yourself, to learn to treat yourself kindly and with a keen ear for what is most important for being your fullest self. You don't have to be ruled by self-criticism, fear or past hurts. I also offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), which can expedite results beyond what's possible in talk therapy alone. KAP brings shifts in perspective that can be anchored and implemented towards lasting change. If you are struggling with painful thoughts, memories, sense of self, life choices, or relationships, I can help you find greater clarity and choices that support you to be your most authentic self.
Not accepting new clients
Laura Fannon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
Verified
My work with individual adults at all stages of life recognizes the transformative power of even the most challenging life transitions. These opportunities may take many forms: fears about mortality and aging, grief and loss, questions about career and calling, spiritual and existential crises, shifts in sexual identity and orientation, and relationship challenges. I also work with couples (including
LGBTQ
) and adult family members who want to improve their relationships. Y sí, hablo español. Si desea obtener más información, llámeme, por favor, y podemos platicar de sus necesidades. Trabajo solamente con adultos y no acepto aseguranza.
Nancy Ilene Gump
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
Verified
My areas of expertise include: Couples Therapy and Pre-Marital Counseling, Parenting, Co-Parenting after Divorce, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions,
LGBT
Issues, Creative Blocks, Anxiety & Depression, Clinical Consultation.
The roadblocks and challenges we all long to avoid often contain hidden gold. We can find this valuable treasure when we learn to relate to our pain differently. In my work I help my clients learn to release unnecessary suffering and meet the difficulties they cannot change. This brings an increased capacity for happiness. I help my clients release the need for perfection and move instead towards wholeness and completeness - holding both the joy and sorrow of life. When we learn to hold our 'broken' places with compassion, we feel more whole.
Not accepting new clients
Rita Karuna Cahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
Offering attention to your whole self, I integrate mind-body approaches with relational analytic and Jungian depth psychology. I bring personal warmth, intuition and over 45 years of clinical experience with individuals, couples and groups. We work collaboratively, bringing greater awareness to your inner and outer life. My approach is tailored to your individual needs, with attention to current and past trauma, current and past relationship and family issues, and the ways those unresolved issues may inhibit your fullest realization of your ambitions and ideals. I welcome
LGBT
and culturally diverse clients.
William J. Hanna
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified
Verified
My specializations: addiction, relapse prevention, trauma or PTSD, unresolved grief and loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders,
LGBT
clients,
gay
suicidal teenagers,
gay
identity development and coming-out.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, a certified relapse prevention specialist, and a registered art therapist. I provide individual therapy for adults and adolescents in Marin County and Sonoma County . I help my clients' to learn how to set clear limits with others and how to create healthy boundaries for oneself; as well as to learn what your own personal boundaries look like. I assist people in discovering how to lead meaningful and authentic lives; and to become self-actualized. I guide my clients in refocusing on what makes him or her most human: creativity, agency, free will, intentionality, self-determination, imagination, and values.
Lauren LaPointe - Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, BA, MA
Verified
Verified
Have you tried talk therapy before and eventually came to a place of feeling stuck or like it wasn't helping anymore? Are you struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety and chronic pain? Are you a part of the
LGBTQ
+ community and looking for a therapist who is knowledgeable about the struggles faced in this community? Do you need help navigating life transitions? Do you want to explore and better understand the dynamics of your family and friends? Do you need help processing challenging experiences or trauma? Are you curious about psychedelic assisted therapy? Or maybe you just want to deepen your understanding of yourself.
See more therapy options for
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.