LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Washington, DC
As a queer and trans psychologist, I understand how challenging daily life can become.
My practice focuses on supporting LGBTQ+ clients, college students, and early-career professionals exploring identity and purpose. I also specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD symptoms, substance use, trauma, and other concerns, which are frequently compounded by sociopolitical stress and discrimination. Let's work together toward systemic healing.
As a queer and trans psychologist, I understand how challenging daily life can become.
My practice focuses on supporting LGBTQ+ clients, college students, and early-career professionals exploring identity and purpose. I also specialize in treating depression, anxiety, OCD symptoms, substance use, trauma, and other concerns, which are frequently compounded by sociopolitical stress and discrimination. Let's work together toward systemic healing.
I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ communities, particularly those who are transgender and gender nonconforming, and those healing from trauma, experiencing grief and loss, coping with cancer and chronic illnesses, and those healing their relationship with food and body image.
I center your voice and experiences. By providing interactive feedback, I will support you in fostering self-compassion, dismantling oppressive narratives, and making meaning. My practice is based on principles such as client-centered, trauma-informed care, body respect and weight neutrality, disability justice and liberation for all.
I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ communities, particularly those who are transgender and gender nonconforming, and those healing from trauma, experiencing grief and loss, coping with cancer and chronic illnesses, and those healing their relationship with food and body image.
I center your voice and experiences. By providing interactive feedback, I will support you in fostering self-compassion, dismantling oppressive narratives, and making meaning. My practice is based on principles such as client-centered, trauma-informed care, body respect and weight neutrality, disability justice and liberation for all.
I now practice at Allswell, an LGBTQ+ affirming clinic.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, relationships, and questions of identity, belonging, and self-worth. I especially welcome clients exploring gender, sexuality, racial identity, body image, or other parts of themselves that may feel difficult to navigate. You may be feeling stuck, disconnected, overwhelmed, or ready to better understand yourself and create meaningful change.
I now practice at Allswell, an LGBTQ+ affirming clinic.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, relationships, and questions of identity, belonging, and self-worth. I especially welcome clients exploring gender, sexuality, racial identity, body image, or other parts of themselves that may feel difficult to navigate. You may be feeling stuck, disconnected, overwhelmed, or ready to better understand yourself and create meaningful change.
Chris Quam Sherman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, ERYT200, CPT, GFI
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
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.
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.
I specialize in providing gender and LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy and culturally competent care for the LGBTQ+ and transgender communities, while also serving the broader community to create a safe space for individuals to explore their identities, relationships, and mental health.
I work with a diverse range of people seeking individual therapy in a supportive, collaborative environment—particularly those navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, acculturation challenges, burnout, life transitions, and the mental-health impacts of discrimination, HIV/AIDS, and social stressors. Clients come when they need a safe, nonjudgmental space to gain clarity, emotional relief, and practical coping skills. Using an integrative, evidence-based approach centered on CBT, I create treatment plans that blend skill-building, psychoeducation, and targeted interventions.
I specialize in providing gender and LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy and culturally competent care for the LGBTQ+ and transgender communities, while also serving the broader community to create a safe space for individuals to explore their identities, relationships, and mental health.
I work with a diverse range of people seeking individual therapy in a supportive, collaborative environment—particularly those navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, acculturation challenges, burnout, life transitions, and the mental-health impacts of discrimination, HIV/AIDS, and social stressors. Clients come when they need a safe, nonjudgmental space to gain clarity, emotional relief, and practical coping skills. Using an integrative, evidence-based approach centered on CBT, I create treatment plans that blend skill-building, psychoeducation, and targeted interventions.
Elizabeth (E.a.)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I'm especially passionate about supporting older adults, caregivers, and LGBTQ+ people of all ages.
My approach is practical and solution-focused, helping clients identify strengths, clarify priorities, and find meaningful ways forward, while honoring the complexity of their lived experience. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating aging, life transitions, and caregiving, as well as exploring and affirming LGBTQ+ identities.
I'm especially passionate about supporting older adults, caregivers, and LGBTQ+ people of all ages.
My approach is practical and solution-focused, helping clients identify strengths, clarify priorities, and find meaningful ways forward, while honoring the complexity of their lived experience. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating aging, life transitions, and caregiving, as well as exploring and affirming LGBTQ+ identities.
I am experienced in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ and ENM communities, neurodivergent folks, and those whose lives question social norms.
I have over a decade of experience in depth-based and body-centered psychotherapies. I am passionate about working with diverse gender/sexual identities, and fluid relationship structures, complex trauma, and chronic illness. My work orients toward the deeper causes of symptoms in finding relief.
I am experienced in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ and ENM communities, neurodivergent folks, and those whose lives question social norms.
I have over a decade of experience in depth-based and body-centered psychotherapies. I am passionate about working with diverse gender/sexual identities, and fluid relationship structures, complex trauma, and chronic illness. My work orients toward the deeper causes of symptoms in finding relief.
You’re “low-maintenance.” The one who handles things, doesn’t ask for much, and keeps everything running. You’re probably doing “fine.” You show up, you’re reliable, you get things done—“fine.” Yet you feel unseen, lonely, you’re carrying more responsibility than anyone realizes. You’re trapped by expectations rather than having choice. When you have spent so long taking care of others it is hard to know what you need, but you’re allowed to want more than a life of managing and coping. Let’s work together to imagine something better than “fine.”
You’re “low-maintenance.” The one who handles things, doesn’t ask for much, and keeps everything running. You’re probably doing “fine.” You show up, you’re reliable, you get things done—“fine.” Yet you feel unseen, lonely, you’re carrying more responsibility than anyone realizes. You’re trapped by expectations rather than having choice. When you have spent so long taking care of others it is hard to know what you need, but you’re allowed to want more than a life of managing and coping. Let’s work together to imagine something better than “fine.”
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.
My practice is open to all individuals presenting with other life and/or mental health concerns to include relationship issues, work-related stress, depression and anxiety. I use techniques based in cognitive behavioral therapy, attachment theory as well as the gender affirmative model in my work with trans/gender expansive/non binary clients.
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.
My practice is open to all individuals presenting with other life and/or mental health concerns to include relationship issues, work-related stress, depression and anxiety. I use techniques based in cognitive behavioral therapy, attachment theory as well as the gender affirmative model in my work with trans/gender expansive/non binary clients.
If you feel lost or overwhelmed by ADHD, OCD, LGBTQIA identity, perinatal transitions, trauma or anxiety, my blend of structured, evidence-based tools and grounding mind-body practices offer clarity and momentum in healing.
Feeling stuck, hopeless, and overwhelmed in your life or a major life transition? Are you struggling to heal from and understand past or present traumas in your life? Do you face challenges in feeling seen and valued in your personal and professional relationships? Do you need skills for navigating daily living? As a therapist I offer trauma responsive care, emotional validation, creativity, & a results driven approach to achieving your personal goals and managing your mental health. I encourage clients to come as they are, and I strive to create conditions for clients to leave our sessions feeling seen, understood, and empowered.
If you feel lost or overwhelmed by ADHD, OCD, LGBTQIA identity, perinatal transitions, trauma or anxiety, my blend of structured, evidence-based tools and grounding mind-body practices offer clarity and momentum in healing.
Feeling stuck, hopeless, and overwhelmed in your life or a major life transition? Are you struggling to heal from and understand past or present traumas in your life? Do you face challenges in feeling seen and valued in your personal and professional relationships? Do you need skills for navigating daily living? As a therapist I offer trauma responsive care, emotional validation, creativity, & a results driven approach to achieving your personal goals and managing your mental health. I encourage clients to come as they are, and I strive to create conditions for clients to leave our sessions feeling seen, understood, and empowered.
Hello, my name is DJ and my pronouns are they/them. I am a professional counselor licensed in DC, Maryland, and Virginia, and I provide teletherapy through a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform. I primarily address issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, relationship challenges, and life transitions with clients who are LGBTQIAA+, polyamorous/ethically non-monogamous, and/or into kink/BDSM. If this sounds like you, contact me and we can set up an initial phone consultation to see if we would be a good fit!
Hello, my name is DJ and my pronouns are they/them. I am a professional counselor licensed in DC, Maryland, and Virginia, and I provide teletherapy through a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform. I primarily address issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, relationship challenges, and life transitions with clients who are LGBTQIAA+, polyamorous/ethically non-monogamous, and/or into kink/BDSM. If this sounds like you, contact me and we can set up an initial phone consultation to see if we would be a good fit!
I am non-binary (agender) and work often with people who identify under the LGBTQIA+ umbrella.
I use a variety of therapeutic techniques in session, bringing together my training in CBT, IFS, and mindfulness as well as other modalities. I specialize in exploring sexual and gender identities, bereavement counseling, fertility and postpartum care, and mental health care for transgender individuals and their families.
I am non-binary (agender) and work often with people who identify under the LGBTQIA+ umbrella.
I use a variety of therapeutic techniques in session, bringing together my training in CBT, IFS, and mindfulness as well as other modalities. I specialize in exploring sexual and gender identities, bereavement counseling, fertility and postpartum care, and mental health care for transgender individuals and their families.
I have extensive experience supporting people with a wide range of concerns: anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ+ identities, ADHD and other neurodiversities, immigration experiences, relationship and family issues, and more.
I am an integrative clinician with a foundation in psychodynamic theories and treatment. I use grounding, insight-oriented, relational, and cognitive techniques to support clients in making the best decisions for themselves and their interpersonal relationships. I practice with a deep commitment to social justice and intersectionality.
I have extensive experience supporting people with a wide range of concerns: anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ+ identities, ADHD and other neurodiversities, immigration experiences, relationship and family issues, and more.
I am an integrative clinician with a foundation in psychodynamic theories and treatment. I use grounding, insight-oriented, relational, and cognitive techniques to support clients in making the best decisions for themselves and their interpersonal relationships. I practice with a deep commitment to social justice and intersectionality.
Catie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in ADHD, eating disorders, body image, LGBTQIA+, relational trauma, and interpersonal violence/domestic violence survivors.
As a therapist, I value being approachable and genuinely engaged in the therapeutic relationship. I strive to offer a nurturing space filled with acceptance, collaboration, and humor that is safe for all gender, sexual and cultural identities. My practice is oriented in Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT), which believes that individuals grow through connectedness, to ourselves and our community. RCT is an Intersectional Feminist approach that allows me to bring social justice and multiculturalism in all forms into my work with clients. I also work within the Health and Every Size (HAES) and body neutrality models.
I specialize in ADHD, eating disorders, body image, LGBTQIA+, relational trauma, and interpersonal violence/domestic violence survivors.
As a therapist, I value being approachable and genuinely engaged in the therapeutic relationship. I strive to offer a nurturing space filled with acceptance, collaboration, and humor that is safe for all gender, sexual and cultural identities. My practice is oriented in Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT), which believes that individuals grow through connectedness, to ourselves and our community. RCT is an Intersectional Feminist approach that allows me to bring social justice and multiculturalism in all forms into my work with clients. I also work within the Health and Every Size (HAES) and body neutrality models.
Sierra Coleman-Modern Love and Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, ABS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am LGBTQ+ allied, sex positive, kink-friendly and nurturing to all clients.
Hi there! I believe each client has a unique set of challenges and strengths, tailoring my approach to meet their individual needs. My therapeutic orientation is deeply person-centered, empathic, direct; with a strong emphasis on experiential therapy, systemic thinking and Internal Family Systems (parts work). I am also a certified Sexologist (ABS), working with individuals and couples around sexual difficulties. I believe that problems are interwoven parts of the whole person, mind, body, environment, and the interpersonal, and see counseling as a collaborative process to empower all my clients and help them empower themselves.
I am LGBTQ+ allied, sex positive, kink-friendly and nurturing to all clients.
Hi there! I believe each client has a unique set of challenges and strengths, tailoring my approach to meet their individual needs. My therapeutic orientation is deeply person-centered, empathic, direct; with a strong emphasis on experiential therapy, systemic thinking and Internal Family Systems (parts work). I am also a certified Sexologist (ABS), working with individuals and couples around sexual difficulties. I believe that problems are interwoven parts of the whole person, mind, body, environment, and the interpersonal, and see counseling as a collaborative process to empower all my clients and help them empower themselves.
The current climate of our society has been a stressful and enduring situation for people which has lead to or uncovered trauma, anxiety, or other overwhelming thoughts. It can be difficult to navigate these mental health stressors by ourselves or even with the support of friends and family. This is why reaching out for professional support can be impactful as you are able to discuss stressors in an empathic space and gain healthy coping skills.
The current climate of our society has been a stressful and enduring situation for people which has lead to or uncovered trauma, anxiety, or other overwhelming thoughts. It can be difficult to navigate these mental health stressors by ourselves or even with the support of friends and family. This is why reaching out for professional support can be impactful as you are able to discuss stressors in an empathic space and gain healthy coping skills.
As a Latina and queer counselor, I am committed to providing the compassion, respect, and acceptance that you deserve.
Do you feel stuck in self-defeating patterns and self-sabotage that leave you feeling drained and not good enough? Are you navigating a life transition that has left you questioning your identity and what truly brings you joy? Is persistent worry overshadowing your everyday life, making it difficult to find peace? If these challenges resonate with you, I would love to hear from you. I work hard to ensure you feel comfortable, safe, and supported as you build trust in the therapeutic relationship, allowing you to gain insight and make meaningful progress.
As a Latina and queer counselor, I am committed to providing the compassion, respect, and acceptance that you deserve.
Do you feel stuck in self-defeating patterns and self-sabotage that leave you feeling drained and not good enough? Are you navigating a life transition that has left you questioning your identity and what truly brings you joy? Is persistent worry overshadowing your everyday life, making it difficult to find peace? If these challenges resonate with you, I would love to hear from you. I work hard to ensure you feel comfortable, safe, and supported as you build trust in the therapeutic relationship, allowing you to gain insight and make meaningful progress.
I believe in our innate power to heal and grow from difficult life experiences. Whether you've experienced a trauma recently or many years ago, these experiences may continue to impact you in the present: physically, emotionally, psychologically and relationally. I offer a gentle, collaborative and affirming space to access and work through past events, however they show up, as well as for self-exploration and personal growth. I pay attention to the ways in which issues of identity may impact your experience. I am licensed in DC, CT, SC, DE, PA.
I believe in our innate power to heal and grow from difficult life experiences. Whether you've experienced a trauma recently or many years ago, these experiences may continue to impact you in the present: physically, emotionally, psychologically and relationally. I offer a gentle, collaborative and affirming space to access and work through past events, however they show up, as well as for self-exploration and personal growth. I pay attention to the ways in which issues of identity may impact your experience. I am licensed in DC, CT, SC, DE, PA.
I'm a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for fostering growth and resilience in individuals and families. My aim is to provide a nurturing and supportive environment where clients of all ages can explore their inner worlds, overcome challenges, and discover their innate potential for healing and transformation. Whether you're seeking therapy for yourself or your child, adolescent, or family unit, I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs and goals. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, low self-esteem, trauma, drug and alcohol use and more.
I'm a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for fostering growth and resilience in individuals and families. My aim is to provide a nurturing and supportive environment where clients of all ages can explore their inner worlds, overcome challenges, and discover their innate potential for healing and transformation. Whether you're seeking therapy for yourself or your child, adolescent, or family unit, I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs and goals. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, low self-esteem, trauma, drug and alcohol use and more.
I specialize in counseling for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer+ community, addictions counseling, and couples/relationship counseling.
I provide comprehensive therapy options to identify your specific needs in the therapeutic process. My work will be tailor made to assure that your therapy will not be a one-size-fits-all model and will be unique to best help with your goals in counseling.
I specialize in counseling for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer+ community, addictions counseling, and couples/relationship counseling.
I provide comprehensive therapy options to identify your specific needs in the therapeutic process. My work will be tailor made to assure that your therapy will not be a one-size-fits-all model and will be unique to best help with your goals in counseling.
See more therapy options for Washington
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.