Transgender Therapists in Santa Clara, CA

Photo of Kate Sutton, PhD, Psychologist
Kate Sutton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95050
I provide a safe and welcoming space to discuss anything from sexual/relationship issues postpartum, to gender dysphoria, making good sex great, erectile problems, pain during sex, kink, or disturbing sexual interests.
Let’s talk about sex and relationships! I am here to help you feel comfortable working through the hard stuff, and sex and relationship issues can be some of the hardest stuff for people to talk about. Together, we’ll create a comfortable, judgment-free space to explore your wants and needs, improve communication with others in your life, and promote intimate, meaningful, and healthy (sexual) relationships. My aim is to help you, and any potentially involved partner(s), to reach your full personal, relationship, and sexual potential in order to lead your happiest and most fulfilling life.
I provide a safe and welcoming space to discuss anything from sexual/relationship issues postpartum, to gender dysphoria, making good sex great, erectile problems, pain during sex, kink, or disturbing sexual interests.
Let’s talk about sex and relationships! I am here to help you feel comfortable working through the hard stuff, and sex and relationship issues can be some of the hardest stuff for people to talk about. Together, we’ll create a comfortable, judgment-free space to explore your wants and needs, improve communication with others in your life, and promote intimate, meaningful, and healthy (sexual) relationships. My aim is to help you, and any potentially involved partner(s), to reach your full personal, relationship, and sexual potential in order to lead your happiest and most fulfilling life.
(510) 513-4410 View (510) 513-4410
Photo of Aaron ' Erin ' Roldan, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aaron ' Erin ' Roldan
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95050  (Online Only)
Are you looking for an advocate and ally to support you throughout your entire therapeutic journey? I believe the strongest modality will always be the therapeutic alliance. I focus on trust, and overall experience of therapy to help guide and assist you with reaching your goals. At the beginning of my own healing journey, I found it difficult to find someone who looked like me and shared similar life experiences as myself. My work is focused on showing others who share similarities my background that there are people out there with lived experiences like theirs.
Are you looking for an advocate and ally to support you throughout your entire therapeutic journey? I believe the strongest modality will always be the therapeutic alliance. I focus on trust, and overall experience of therapy to help guide and assist you with reaching your goals. At the beginning of my own healing journey, I found it difficult to find someone who looked like me and shared similar life experiences as myself. My work is focused on showing others who share similarities my background that there are people out there with lived experiences like theirs.
(408) 403-5824 View (408) 403-5824
Photo of Lida Nassiri Vala, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lida Nassiri Vala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95050
As I see it, therapy can have a tremendous influence in a person's life. My style of therapy emphasizes the importance and validation of the client's life experiences. I utilize a compassionate approach where the client can feel comfortable to explore and examine their life in order to better understand patterns that may contribute to problems. I don't subscribe to a cookie cutter approach, rather offer a personalized form of treatment based on your personality and life experiences. I hope to provide the support that will help you find your own of healing.
As I see it, therapy can have a tremendous influence in a person's life. My style of therapy emphasizes the importance and validation of the client's life experiences. I utilize a compassionate approach where the client can feel comfortable to explore and examine their life in order to better understand patterns that may contribute to problems. I don't subscribe to a cookie cutter approach, rather offer a personalized form of treatment based on your personality and life experiences. I hope to provide the support that will help you find your own of healing.
(408) 703-5708 View (408) 703-5708
Photo of Guneet Kaur, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Guneet Kaur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95050  (Online Only)
For me, participating in therapy means being captain of your team and taking responsibility for your wellness. Therapy involves hard work, vulnerability, and curiosity which blossoms from a safe space created by both of us. My role as a therapist is to be a team player as you move forward. I will offer compassion, concrete tools, and (sometimes) humor to support you in taking on the captain role. As captain, your job is to practice skills with curiosity and continuously commit to the hard work of being boldly you. That work continues beyond therapy as well. All of you are welcome on the journey forward.
For me, participating in therapy means being captain of your team and taking responsibility for your wellness. Therapy involves hard work, vulnerability, and curiosity which blossoms from a safe space created by both of us. My role as a therapist is to be a team player as you move forward. I will offer compassion, concrete tools, and (sometimes) humor to support you in taking on the captain role. As captain, your job is to practice skills with curiosity and continuously commit to the hard work of being boldly you. That work continues beyond therapy as well. All of you are welcome on the journey forward.
(669) 202-6723 View (669) 202-6723
Photo of Jasey Stetser, APCC
Jasey Stetser
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95053  (Online Only)
I believe that the meaning of life is to tell one’s story. Everyone has a story to tell and we unconsciously share our stories everyday through words, actions, and interactions, despite whether or not someone is listening or willing to put the pieces together. The journey that we each take through life shapes us with each choice, decision, and coping strategy. I chose to become a counselor because I want to listen to those stories and help you to piece your puzzle together. I strive to create a safe space to explore, experiment, understand, and grow into yourself as you would like to become.
I believe that the meaning of life is to tell one’s story. Everyone has a story to tell and we unconsciously share our stories everyday through words, actions, and interactions, despite whether or not someone is listening or willing to put the pieces together. The journey that we each take through life shapes us with each choice, decision, and coping strategy. I chose to become a counselor because I want to listen to those stories and help you to piece your puzzle together. I strive to create a safe space to explore, experiment, understand, and grow into yourself as you would like to become.
(408) 883-4824 View (408) 883-4824
Photo of Irene Van, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Irene Van
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050  (Online Only)
At times, the weight of the world can be overwhelming. We may grow up believing that we are not enough and that we have to be perfect. We may have inherited messages from our family or from society that puts us down, especially if we come from a marginalized identity. This can make us feel hopeless or ungrounded and we may act out in ways that we aren't proud of. These narratives may also show up in the relationships we care most about.
At times, the weight of the world can be overwhelming. We may grow up believing that we are not enough and that we have to be perfect. We may have inherited messages from our family or from society that puts us down, especially if we come from a marginalized identity. This can make us feel hopeless or ungrounded and we may act out in ways that we aren't proud of. These narratives may also show up in the relationships we care most about.
(408) 886-9939 View (408) 886-9939
Photo of Patricia Anderson - Bridges Therapy Group of CA, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bridges Therapy Group of CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050  (Online Only)
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
(510) 694-7984 View (510) 694-7984
Photo of David A Martinez, PhD, Psychologist
David A Martinez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95054  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide care for clients who reside in California. I work with people who are interested in improving: Depression; Social Anxiety and other specific phobias; Generalized Anxiety; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder; Panic Disorder; Health behavior (e.g., adherence, coping with chronic illness, managing chronic pain); Smoking cessation; Insomnia; Trauma/PTSD; Issues related to experiences of LGBTQI+; Sexual health; Grief; and Stress.
I provide care for clients who reside in California. I work with people who are interested in improving: Depression; Social Anxiety and other specific phobias; Generalized Anxiety; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder; Panic Disorder; Health behavior (e.g., adherence, coping with chronic illness, managing chronic pain); Smoking cessation; Insomnia; Trauma/PTSD; Issues related to experiences of LGBTQI+; Sexual health; Grief; and Stress.
(510) 937-3211 View (510) 937-3211
Photo of Monet Goldman - Video Game Counseling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Video Game Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95050  (Online Only)
You're not alone in feeling the lasting impacts of stress, abuse, and neglect. Such hardships can often manifest in our lives as depression, anxiety, anger, or low self-esteem. Through therapy, we'll embark on a journey to navigate these difficult emotions, build your confidence, and help you express yourself authentically. If low motivation, worry, or stress has been weighing you down, consider therapy not merely as a solution but as a catalyst for growth.
You're not alone in feeling the lasting impacts of stress, abuse, and neglect. Such hardships can often manifest in our lives as depression, anxiety, anger, or low self-esteem. Through therapy, we'll embark on a journey to navigate these difficult emotions, build your confidence, and help you express yourself authentically. If low motivation, worry, or stress has been weighing you down, consider therapy not merely as a solution but as a catalyst for growth.
(408) 874-8158 View (408) 874-8158
Photo of Greta Mueller, Pre-Licensed Professional
Greta Mueller
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050
Hey there, teens and young adults! What a wild time to be alive. One moment things are crystal clear and the next they are all scrambled again. I get it! After having been through my own experiences of repeatedly spinning and finding myself, I have thankfully discovered ways of being that help me to stay connected to myself. If you want to break free from the maze of confusion and step onto the path of confidence, I would be delighted to join you on this journey. The environment I create is open, where we can both get curious and explore all components of your well-being - identity, emotions, sexual health and relationships.
Hey there, teens and young adults! What a wild time to be alive. One moment things are crystal clear and the next they are all scrambled again. I get it! After having been through my own experiences of repeatedly spinning and finding myself, I have thankfully discovered ways of being that help me to stay connected to myself. If you want to break free from the maze of confusion and step onto the path of confidence, I would be delighted to join you on this journey. The environment I create is open, where we can both get curious and explore all components of your well-being - identity, emotions, sexual health and relationships.
(669) 338-3008 View (669) 338-3008
Photo of Evelyn Alicea-Samaniego, LCP, Psychologist
Evelyn Alicea-Samaniego
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050
Hello, My name is Dr. Alicea-Samaniego. I have been a California Licensed Psychologist since 2003. In my years as a Psychologist, I have had a private practice, served as adjunct instructor in a Masters program and was the Chief Psychologist at a corrections facility in California. I work with a variety of clients that present with different issues. My focus has been to provide services to the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, Spanish speaking individuals and women's issues.
Hello, My name is Dr. Alicea-Samaniego. I have been a California Licensed Psychologist since 2003. In my years as a Psychologist, I have had a private practice, served as adjunct instructor in a Masters program and was the Chief Psychologist at a corrections facility in California. I work with a variety of clients that present with different issues. My focus has been to provide services to the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, Spanish speaking individuals and women's issues.
(562) 784-5740 View (562) 784-5740
Photo of David J. Reilly, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David J. Reilly
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050
As human beings, we are wired to be resilient; we find ways to adapt to our surroundings, solve problems, and navigate the challenges of daily life. And yet, we all face times when we struggle to access our inner strengths and start to feel unsettled, depleted, or overwhelmed. We may feel as though we are no longer thriving, but merely surviving.
As human beings, we are wired to be resilient; we find ways to adapt to our surroundings, solve problems, and navigate the challenges of daily life. And yet, we all face times when we struggle to access our inner strengths and start to feel unsettled, depleted, or overwhelmed. We may feel as though we are no longer thriving, but merely surviving.
(650) 297-0792 View (650) 297-0792
Photo of Erika S Tomlinson, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Erika S Tomlinson
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95051  (Online Only)
A Harvard and Stanford trained trauma therapist and clinical neuropsychologist, my passion is helping individuals return to themselves after trauma, chronic illness and major life changes. Has something changed in your life and you just don't feel like yourself anymore? Do you feel overwhelmed trying to get through the day? Do you feel scared, angry, or stuck? If so, you're not alone! People who have experienced major events or illnesses often feel frustrated, uncertain, and overwhelmed. They worry that this will go on forever. But there is hope. I can help you to focus your mind, process your feelings, and rekindle joy.
A Harvard and Stanford trained trauma therapist and clinical neuropsychologist, my passion is helping individuals return to themselves after trauma, chronic illness and major life changes. Has something changed in your life and you just don't feel like yourself anymore? Do you feel overwhelmed trying to get through the day? Do you feel scared, angry, or stuck? If so, you're not alone! People who have experienced major events or illnesses often feel frustrated, uncertain, and overwhelmed. They worry that this will go on forever. But there is hope. I can help you to focus your mind, process your feelings, and rekindle joy.
(415) 358-7542 View (415) 358-7542
Photo of Victoria Wu, PhD, Psychologist
Victoria Wu
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050  (Online Only)
I specialize in LGBTQ+ clients and issues they face as well as diversity and social justice. I'm also a COVID-conscious therapist that continues to take precautions to protect myself and others, understands the social and psychological impact of the pandemic, and keeps up to date on the research on what COVID can do to the body and brain and how that can impact mental health.
I specialize in LGBTQ+ clients and issues they face as well as diversity and social justice. I'm also a COVID-conscious therapist that continues to take precautions to protect myself and others, understands the social and psychological impact of the pandemic, and keeps up to date on the research on what COVID can do to the body and brain and how that can impact mental health.
(650) 398-1033 View (650) 398-1033
Photo of Ellen Ross, PsyD, Psychologist
Ellen Ross
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95050
Are you feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Have you tried everything you can think of to solve the problem, change your circumstances, or just feel better on your own? If you're deep in the mire of anxiety and depression, trying to make a positive change, or just barely managing to make it through the day, it can be tough to think that things could be different. You can feel frustrated, disconnected, and stuck. Getting the right support can be the ticket to moving out of being stuck and taking steps toward living the life you'd like to be living.
Are you feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Have you tried everything you can think of to solve the problem, change your circumstances, or just feel better on your own? If you're deep in the mire of anxiety and depression, trying to make a positive change, or just barely managing to make it through the day, it can be tough to think that things could be different. You can feel frustrated, disconnected, and stuck. Getting the right support can be the ticket to moving out of being stuck and taking steps toward living the life you'd like to be living.
(669) 238-2777 View (669) 238-2777
Photo of Robin Beresford, PhD, LMFT, PA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robin Beresford
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, PA
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050
Waitlist for new clients
I provide an environment of safety and acceptance, where new understandings and confidence can develop and flourish. Recognizing that our feelings and previous experiences affect such issues as intimacy, the challenge of illness, coping with stress, life's transitions, loss, and sense of purpose, my approach to psychotherapy integrates concepts of treating the mind and body. I work with individuals and couples to facilitate change toward increased contentment and vitality, and have particular expertise in helping clients cope with the experience of chronic or acute medical conditions.
I provide an environment of safety and acceptance, where new understandings and confidence can develop and flourish. Recognizing that our feelings and previous experiences affect such issues as intimacy, the challenge of illness, coping with stress, life's transitions, loss, and sense of purpose, my approach to psychotherapy integrates concepts of treating the mind and body. I work with individuals and couples to facilitate change toward increased contentment and vitality, and have particular expertise in helping clients cope with the experience of chronic or acute medical conditions.
(408) 759-5498 View (408) 759-5498
Photo of Trisha Rowe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trisha Rowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050
Your being on this site reflects your hope that at a time of vulnerability your can find someone who will assist and accompany you through your pain. I believe that everyone, no matter if they are dealing with depression, anxiety, or have been through intense abuse and/or neglect have within them a deeper part of themselves that is untouched and whole. Together we alleviate shame, fear and aloneness so that you can go beyond your defenses, explore your inner life and have new experiences that allow for your ability to tap into your healing and adaptive aspects of yourself.
Your being on this site reflects your hope that at a time of vulnerability your can find someone who will assist and accompany you through your pain. I believe that everyone, no matter if they are dealing with depression, anxiety, or have been through intense abuse and/or neglect have within them a deeper part of themselves that is untouched and whole. Together we alleviate shame, fear and aloneness so that you can go beyond your defenses, explore your inner life and have new experiences that allow for your ability to tap into your healing and adaptive aspects of yourself.
(510) 342-9984 View (510) 342-9984
Photo of Jennifer M Ray - Jennifer M Ray, Ph.D, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer M Ray, Ph.D
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050
I provide effective, research based therapy to help you move from surviving to thriving. If stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship problems are keeping you from being truly happy, it's time to do something about it. You can't solve a problem if you don't acknowledge you have one. With over 17 years clinical experience, I offer compassionate therapy in a collaborative and supportive environment. If you need help with life transitions, relationship issues,parenting challenges, depression or anxiety, I can help you get the support, insight and skills you need.
I provide effective, research based therapy to help you move from surviving to thriving. If stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship problems are keeping you from being truly happy, it's time to do something about it. You can't solve a problem if you don't acknowledge you have one. With over 17 years clinical experience, I offer compassionate therapy in a collaborative and supportive environment. If you need help with life transitions, relationship issues,parenting challenges, depression or anxiety, I can help you get the support, insight and skills you need.
(916) 546-3548 View (916) 546-3548
Photo of Shereen Mohsen, PsyD, Psychologist
Shereen Mohsen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95050
Now more than ever people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and challenged by the many demands in our lives. Managing relationships, parenting, and work/life balance can leave us feeling lost and confused on how to move forward. And sadly, not addressing these challenges can lead us to feeling like we’re drowning and far from living a fulfilling life. We believe that it shouldn’t be so hard to live better. We can change for the better, and a lot of times, all we need is support, understanding, and hope to find those answers in a collaborative and comfortable environment.
Now more than ever people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and challenged by the many demands in our lives. Managing relationships, parenting, and work/life balance can leave us feeling lost and confused on how to move forward. And sadly, not addressing these challenges can lead us to feeling like we’re drowning and far from living a fulfilling life. We believe that it shouldn’t be so hard to live better. We can change for the better, and a lot of times, all we need is support, understanding, and hope to find those answers in a collaborative and comfortable environment.
(408) 796-1251 View (408) 796-1251
Photo of Lisa Palley, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Palley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clara, CA 95053
At its best, therapy provides a safe, supportive environment where you can be heard and valued for the unique person that you are. Having someone in your corner to help you process past hurts and pinpoint and remove barriers to authentic, happy living can be indispensable. I enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds to identify areas for growth and healing. As someone who used to work in the corporate and entertainment worlds prior to becoming a therapist, I am sensitive to the challenges we face trying to lead balanced, healthy lives, and I welcome the opportunity to help you achieve greater insight and fulfillment.
At its best, therapy provides a safe, supportive environment where you can be heard and valued for the unique person that you are. Having someone in your corner to help you process past hurts and pinpoint and remove barriers to authentic, happy living can be indispensable. I enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds to identify areas for growth and healing. As someone who used to work in the corporate and entertainment worlds prior to becoming a therapist, I am sensitive to the challenges we face trying to lead balanced, healthy lives, and I welcome the opportunity to help you achieve greater insight and fulfillment.
(650) 265-2346 View (650) 265-2346
1

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.