Transgender Therapists in Washington, DC
Chloe Goldbach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Hello! My name is Chloe (she/her). I am a white, lesbian, gray-ace, transgender woman-identified clinician. I am passionate about helping individuals understand how the unique intersection of their identities, cultural backgrounds, and social context can inform experiences of trauma, sources of strength and community, and shape other life challenges. I specialize in and am particularly passionate about working with transgender, nonbinary, and LGBQIA+ people and communities, and individuals experiencing outpatient disordered eating concerns, and how current struggles can be informed by past and ongoing experiences of trauma.
Hello! My name is Chloe (she/her). I am a white, lesbian, gray-ace, transgender woman-identified clinician. I am passionate about helping individuals understand how the unique intersection of their identities, cultural backgrounds, and social context can inform experiences of trauma, sources of strength and community, and shape other life challenges. I specialize in and am particularly passionate about working with transgender, nonbinary, and LGBQIA+ people and communities, and individuals experiencing outpatient disordered eating concerns, and how current struggles can be informed by past and ongoing experiences of trauma.
Chris Quam Sherman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, ERYT200, CPT, GFI
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
We can work together on: navigating gender dysphoria, shutdowns/meltdowns, panic attacks, trauma, executive functioning, relationships, conflict, eating disorders, exercise compulsion/aversion, etc.
What if the things that always made you different (ie your neurodivergence, gender identity, sexual orientation) were not an indicator that you were wrong or broken? Who you are is a gift. You do not have to hide or become less of who you are. Through therapy we will uncover and use your unique strengths to move towards growth and healing.
We can work together on: navigating gender dysphoria, shutdowns/meltdowns, panic attacks, trauma, executive functioning, relationships, conflict, eating disorders, exercise compulsion/aversion, etc.
What if the things that always made you different (ie your neurodivergence, gender identity, sexual orientation) were not an indicator that you were wrong or broken? Who you are is a gift. You do not have to hide or become less of who you are. Through therapy we will uncover and use your unique strengths to move towards growth and healing.
Kris Oseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I work with clients of all backgrounds, while specializing in following areas: LGBTQ+, Transgender/Gender-Diverse/Non-binary transitioning process and identity; kink/poly/non-monogamous relationships, sex work, substance use/misuse – goals for sobriety/recovery or harm reduction, out of control sexual behavior, anxiety/trauma, Personal Training, EMDR.
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
I work with clients of all backgrounds, while specializing in following areas: LGBTQ+, Transgender/Gender-Diverse/Non-binary transitioning process and identity; kink/poly/non-monogamous relationships, sex work, substance use/misuse – goals for sobriety/recovery or harm reduction, out of control sexual behavior, anxiety/trauma, Personal Training, EMDR.
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
Jericho Feng
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a transgender psychotherapist who provides accessible, neurodivergent-affirming, culturally responsive, LGBTQ+ affirming, social justice-oriented diagnostic assessments, and mental health therapy.
I am a transgender psychotherapist who provides accessible, neurodivergent-affirming, culturally responsive, LGBTQ+ affirming, social justice-oriented diagnostic assessments, and mental health therapy.
Julian R Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005 (Online Only)
Have you been looking for a therapist effective at working with and affirming individuals along the gender spectrum, or who identify as transgender? For many individuals our work is an exploration of identity expression, or focused on the loss associated with rejection by significant persons, or family estrangement.
Life can create challenges ranging from minor to major, brief to long term and even the most resilient, sturdy individuals will benefit from an empathic and non-judgemental ear during those times. Do you feel lonely, sad, or that no one understands you? I provide clients therapy that is evidence based, and focuses on your strengths to help you get back to feeling and functioning at your best.
Have you been looking for a therapist effective at working with and affirming individuals along the gender spectrum, or who identify as transgender? For many individuals our work is an exploration of identity expression, or focused on the loss associated with rejection by significant persons, or family estrangement.
Life can create challenges ranging from minor to major, brief to long term and even the most resilient, sturdy individuals will benefit from an empathic and non-judgemental ear during those times. Do you feel lonely, sad, or that no one understands you? I provide clients therapy that is evidence based, and focuses on your strengths to help you get back to feeling and functioning at your best.
Sharon Kenthack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex issues.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy with a high success rate in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, and many other problems. Together, I will help you identify what thoughts and behaviors have been unhelpful, preventing you from living the life you desire. You will learn strategies and techniques in session to apply in your daily life for effective change. We will work as a collaborative partnership, progressing at a pace most comfortable for you.
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex issues.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy with a high success rate in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, and many other problems. Together, I will help you identify what thoughts and behaviors have been unhelpful, preventing you from living the life you desire. You will learn strategies and techniques in session to apply in your daily life for effective change. We will work as a collaborative partnership, progressing at a pace most comfortable for you.
Pride Therapy DC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002 (Online Only)
More than your Therapist -Your Biographer-- In sharing your story- you can get Perspective , Power and Peace. LGBTQ- Supportive Therapy-providing an empathetic ear and concrete solutions. Whether your struggling with Anxiety, Trauma or Relationship Issues- or not being in one -you don't have to do it alone. Have You - your kid or spouse come out as Transgender, Lesbian Bisexual or Gay or HIV+ and have questions I have helped many others like you and have trained thousands of Healthcare Providers on how to be more clinically competent and sensitive in their care. Let's do the work together!
More than your Therapist -Your Biographer-- In sharing your story- you can get Perspective , Power and Peace. LGBTQ- Supportive Therapy-providing an empathetic ear and concrete solutions. Whether your struggling with Anxiety, Trauma or Relationship Issues- or not being in one -you don't have to do it alone. Have You - your kid or spouse come out as Transgender, Lesbian Bisexual or Gay or HIV+ and have questions I have helped many others like you and have trained thousands of Healthcare Providers on how to be more clinically competent and sensitive in their care. Let's do the work together!
Larissa Godfrey-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Located in Union Market, Washington, DC, I specialize in gender and queer topics. The clients I enjoy working with the most are teens, adults, couples, and families with identities that are often seen as outside of the “typical”: transgender and gender-expansive, queer, blended families, and formerly religious. They are seeking a safe space to process challenges, practice acceptance, gain strength, and secure support, without having to explain their identity, family dynamic, or risk be criticized because of it.
Located in Union Market, Washington, DC, I specialize in gender and queer topics. The clients I enjoy working with the most are teens, adults, couples, and families with identities that are often seen as outside of the “typical”: transgender and gender-expansive, queer, blended families, and formerly religious. They are seeking a safe space to process challenges, practice acceptance, gain strength, and secure support, without having to explain their identity, family dynamic, or risk be criticized because of it.
Leah Liszka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
I specialize in bereavement counseling, fertility and postpartum care, exploring sexual and gender identities, and mental health care for transgender individuals and their families.
I believe that we all have the resources to succeed within ourselves. Therapy connects us to our strengths and our resilience. As a client-centered therapist, I am honored to collaborate with you and help you reach your mental health goals. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience providing individual therapy to adults with a wide range of life experiences, including the LGBTQ+ community. I am body- and sex- positive, kink-aware, and poly-friendly, and my practice philosophy is grounded in intersectional and feminist theory.
I specialize in bereavement counseling, fertility and postpartum care, exploring sexual and gender identities, and mental health care for transgender individuals and their families.
I believe that we all have the resources to succeed within ourselves. Therapy connects us to our strengths and our resilience. As a client-centered therapist, I am honored to collaborate with you and help you reach your mental health goals. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience providing individual therapy to adults with a wide range of life experiences, including the LGBTQ+ community. I am body- and sex- positive, kink-aware, and poly-friendly, and my practice philosophy is grounded in intersectional and feminist theory.
Robyn S. Zeiger
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
For the past 4 decades plus, I have specialized in LGBTQ issues. I currently focus on gender identity issues and assist my transgender clients with navigating their often challenging journeys. As an "out" cisgender lesbian practitioner, I strive to help my LGBTQ clients travel from a place of shame to pride. Much of our work centers on self- esteem and the ways in which homophobia and transphobia impact so many areas of our lives-including family, career, and our intimate relationships. I love animals and also do veterinary counseling and consulting. My style is interactive and casual. I highly value your confidentiality.
For the past 4 decades plus, I have specialized in LGBTQ issues. I currently focus on gender identity issues and assist my transgender clients with navigating their often challenging journeys. As an "out" cisgender lesbian practitioner, I strive to help my LGBTQ clients travel from a place of shame to pride. Much of our work centers on self- esteem and the ways in which homophobia and transphobia impact so many areas of our lives-including family, career, and our intimate relationships. I love animals and also do veterinary counseling and consulting. My style is interactive and casual. I highly value your confidentiality.
Laila Cooper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
My work is focused on sex and gender issues (including transgender issues), sexual orientation, kink/BDSM, and interpersonal relationships (including couples, polyamory, family dyads).
Congratulations on making it this far; searching for a therapist can be an overwhelming process! Many individuals struggle with depression, anxiety, struggles with sex and relationships, or simply the desire to understand themselves more thoroughly. Whether to improve mood and functioning, improve relationships, or work on issues with sex/sexuality, therapy can be reparative, strengthening, and play a role in maximizing enjoyment of life! I work from an affirming and social justice approach with the LGBTQIA community and people of color, and I am kink- and non-monogamy informed and affirming.
My work is focused on sex and gender issues (including transgender issues), sexual orientation, kink/BDSM, and interpersonal relationships (including couples, polyamory, family dyads).
Congratulations on making it this far; searching for a therapist can be an overwhelming process! Many individuals struggle with depression, anxiety, struggles with sex and relationships, or simply the desire to understand themselves more thoroughly. Whether to improve mood and functioning, improve relationships, or work on issues with sex/sexuality, therapy can be reparative, strengthening, and play a role in maximizing enjoyment of life! I work from an affirming and social justice approach with the LGBTQIA community and people of color, and I am kink- and non-monogamy informed and affirming.
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Unconventional Minds Coaching
MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036 (Online Only)
My coaching approach is intersectional & anti-oppressive in practice: proudly affirming of humans who are undocumented migrants, gender-nonconforming, nonbinary, queer and/or LGB, transgender + of trans experience, intersex + of intersex experience, current and former sex workers, non-monogamous, interested in kink/BDSM, asexual &/or aromantic, among others.
Hi! I'm Sam, a Professional Coach who works with neurodivergent adults (ADHD, Autistic, AuDHD, OCD) who have unconventional lives to understand and embrace their unique neurotypes, so they can effectively minimize stress, overcome challenges, and improve their quality of life. Together, we can co-create a supportive, non-judgmental, and effective coaching partnership through which you will learn to fully utilize your strengths, understand and embrace your full humanity, and cultivate practices that are key to defining and achieving your own version of success. Please note: I am a qualified coach, NOT a psychotherapist or counselor.
My coaching approach is intersectional & anti-oppressive in practice: proudly affirming of humans who are undocumented migrants, gender-nonconforming, nonbinary, queer and/or LGB, transgender + of trans experience, intersex + of intersex experience, current and former sex workers, non-monogamous, interested in kink/BDSM, asexual &/or aromantic, among others.
Hi! I'm Sam, a Professional Coach who works with neurodivergent adults (ADHD, Autistic, AuDHD, OCD) who have unconventional lives to understand and embrace their unique neurotypes, so they can effectively minimize stress, overcome challenges, and improve their quality of life. Together, we can co-create a supportive, non-judgmental, and effective coaching partnership through which you will learn to fully utilize your strengths, understand and embrace your full humanity, and cultivate practices that are key to defining and achieving your own version of success. Please note: I am a qualified coach, NOT a psychotherapist or counselor.
Lyssa Barth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005 (Online Only)
It takes courage, strength, and commitment to find and connect with a therapist, which is why I value and respect the time I spend with each and every client. I make sure that treatment is tailored to your needs and that you feel heard. My passion for therapy, in combination with my education and training, keeps me rooted in up-to-date, evidence-based practices, ensuring that I am able to provide the best possible services to our clients. At Barth Therapy, I specialize in providing services for LGBTQ+ persons, with an emphasis on transgender people of color.
It takes courage, strength, and commitment to find and connect with a therapist, which is why I value and respect the time I spend with each and every client. I make sure that treatment is tailored to your needs and that you feel heard. My passion for therapy, in combination with my education and training, keeps me rooted in up-to-date, evidence-based practices, ensuring that I am able to provide the best possible services to our clients. At Barth Therapy, I specialize in providing services for LGBTQ+ persons, with an emphasis on transgender people of color.
Emma Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CTCT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Certified in Trauma & Transgender Care & trained in EMDR, CPT, Imago & sex therapy, I offer a cozy, non-judgmental, sex-positive environment for ENM/poly/kinky (& vanilla) alike!.
Did you grow up being told your desires & wants were “bad” or too much? And maybe part of you knows it’s untrue, but sometimes that old story creeps back in? I help clients shed old narratives, and explore new ways of thinking & being in the world. Individuals & couples working with me are typically interested in healing from trauma, seeking symptom relief/coping skills, engaging in self-discovery, and cultivating satisfying sexual relationships. I specialize in treating sexual & religious trauma & working with LGBTQ+ folks on their journeys of identity discovery (yes, I work with cis/straight folks, too).
Certified in Trauma & Transgender Care & trained in EMDR, CPT, Imago & sex therapy, I offer a cozy, non-judgmental, sex-positive environment for ENM/poly/kinky (& vanilla) alike!.
Did you grow up being told your desires & wants were “bad” or too much? And maybe part of you knows it’s untrue, but sometimes that old story creeps back in? I help clients shed old narratives, and explore new ways of thinking & being in the world. Individuals & couples working with me are typically interested in healing from trauma, seeking symptom relief/coping skills, engaging in self-discovery, and cultivating satisfying sexual relationships. I specialize in treating sexual & religious trauma & working with LGBTQ+ folks on their journeys of identity discovery (yes, I work with cis/straight folks, too).
Taylor V Pinckney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I am a openly Queer identified Clinical Social Worker. I have been providing psychotherapy to youth and families since 2017. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy, an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma and their parents or caregivers. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to address Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Grief, and Adjustment Disorders. Much of my career has been working with individuals and families in the BIPOC community and the LGBTQIA+ community ages 14+.
I am a openly Queer identified Clinical Social Worker. I have been providing psychotherapy to youth and families since 2017. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy, an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma and their parents or caregivers. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to address Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Grief, and Adjustment Disorders. Much of my career has been working with individuals and families in the BIPOC community and the LGBTQIA+ community ages 14+.
Emily Maynard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
I specialize in working with people who have complicated relationships with their bodies. My patients come to me because they are interested in: addressing disordered eating and body image issues; learning to live better with medical problems; reconsidering their use of alcohol and drugs; or learning to live in their bodies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or non-binary individuals. Many of my patients have also been through difficult or even traumatic events, that at times have made their bodies feel unsafe. I help my patients to reestablish a sense of trust and safety in their bodies.
I specialize in working with people who have complicated relationships with their bodies. My patients come to me because they are interested in: addressing disordered eating and body image issues; learning to live better with medical problems; reconsidering their use of alcohol and drugs; or learning to live in their bodies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or non-binary individuals. Many of my patients have also been through difficult or even traumatic events, that at times have made their bodies feel unsafe. I help my patients to reestablish a sense of trust and safety in their bodies.
Maurine K Kelly
Psychologist, PhD, FIPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
Kaleidoscope Wellness and Education Group, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001 (Online Only)
Kaleidoscope's target market is children and adolescents who identify as Black, Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC), Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ+) or another underserved and marginalized group and are experiencing difficulty functioning due to mental illness, trauma or a developmental disorder.
Kaleidoscope Wellness and Education Group, LLC (Kaleidoscope) provides mental health services to children, youth and their families with a focus on those who are underserved and marginalized. Kaleidoscope exists to ensure that children and youth, especially those who identify as a member of a minority group, are afforded the tools they need to live abundantly. We help our clients develop strategies and skills that help them combat the difficulties that prevent them functioning optimally day-to-day.
Kaleidoscope's target market is children and adolescents who identify as Black, Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC), Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ+) or another underserved and marginalized group and are experiencing difficulty functioning due to mental illness, trauma or a developmental disorder.
Kaleidoscope Wellness and Education Group, LLC (Kaleidoscope) provides mental health services to children, youth and their families with a focus on those who are underserved and marginalized. Kaleidoscope exists to ensure that children and youth, especially those who identify as a member of a minority group, are afforded the tools they need to live abundantly. We help our clients develop strategies and skills that help them combat the difficulties that prevent them functioning optimally day-to-day.
Mix Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Have you been questioning your gender identity or sexuality? Or struggling with anxiety, depression, boundaries in relationships, or grief? Have you experienced trauma? Are you not quite sure what’s wrong? I’m here to work with you. My approach to therapy is eclectic and based on you and your goals. I will work with you as a teammate to identify the things that could be holding you back from the life you want to be living. Together we will identify which direction you want to go and how to get there.
Have you been questioning your gender identity or sexuality? Or struggling with anxiety, depression, boundaries in relationships, or grief? Have you experienced trauma? Are you not quite sure what’s wrong? I’m here to work with you. My approach to therapy is eclectic and based on you and your goals. I will work with you as a teammate to identify the things that could be holding you back from the life you want to be living. Together we will identify which direction you want to go and how to get there.
Thomas J Coughlin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20010
You made it this far!! Let's talk! Sometimes creating or maintaining a happy, satisfying life requires help. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I will listen and engage you in ways that support a life of balance, healing & growth as you move toward a better and more authentic you. Though my practice is not limited to work with the LGBTQ population, I have years of experience working with this community especially trans/gender expansive/non binary individuals. I am credentialed through the WPATH GEI certification program. More info: https://www.wpath.org/about-gei
You made it this far!! Let's talk! Sometimes creating or maintaining a happy, satisfying life requires help. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I will listen and engage you in ways that support a life of balance, healing & growth as you move toward a better and more authentic you. Though my practice is not limited to work with the LGBTQ population, I have years of experience working with this community especially trans/gender expansive/non binary individuals. I am credentialed through the WPATH GEI certification program. More info: https://www.wpath.org/about-gei
See more therapy options for Washington
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.