Transgender Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Kris Oseth, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
Kris Oseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
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 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
(202) 759-8060 View (202) 759-8060
Photo of DuEwa 'kaya' Spicer - Infinite Zen Holistic Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ABS, LICSW, LCSW-S, CCATP, CST
Infinite Zen Holistic Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ABS, LICSW, LCSW-S, CCATP, CST
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Is your relationship experiencing frequent conflict/arguing, issues with sex and intimacy or differences in sexual desire? Let's work together! I am a sex-positive, non-monogamous, BDSM/KINK, LGBTQIA+ affirming relationship therapist. Perhaps you want to improve intimacy, or maybe you're unsure about the future of your relationship. An important aspect of therapy is examining our inner world, relationships, thoughts and feelings in a safe non-judgmental space. Using an integrative approach, I aim to create a positive therapeutic relationship that promotes healing with compassionate self-exploration. IFS therapist. Let's Chat!
Is your relationship experiencing frequent conflict/arguing, issues with sex and intimacy or differences in sexual desire? Let's work together! I am a sex-positive, non-monogamous, BDSM/KINK, LGBTQIA+ affirming relationship therapist. Perhaps you want to improve intimacy, or maybe you're unsure about the future of your relationship. An important aspect of therapy is examining our inner world, relationships, thoughts and feelings in a safe non-judgmental space. Using an integrative approach, I aim to create a positive therapeutic relationship that promotes healing with compassionate self-exploration. IFS therapist. Let's Chat!
(202) 816-6098 View (202) 816-6098
Photo of Elle Jessup, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Elle Jessup
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Are you navigating the intersection of being queer and neurodivergent in a world that doesn’t seem to have been built for you? Learning to love all the parts of yourself is so much more challenging when you’re surrounded by systems and structures that aren’t affirming or flexible. Many of us in these communities navigate issues such as sensory sensitivity, relationship struggles, chronic dysregulation, and executive dysfunction. As a queer neurodivergent person, I understand the complexities and unique challenges you may face. Compassion is at the center of my approach.
Are you navigating the intersection of being queer and neurodivergent in a world that doesn’t seem to have been built for you? Learning to love all the parts of yourself is so much more challenging when you’re surrounded by systems and structures that aren’t affirming or flexible. Many of us in these communities navigate issues such as sensory sensitivity, relationship struggles, chronic dysregulation, and executive dysfunction. As a queer neurodivergent person, I understand the complexities and unique challenges you may face. Compassion is at the center of my approach.
(877) 554-4570 View (877) 554-4570
Photo of Aimee C Ruscio, Psychologist, PhD
Aimee C Ruscio
Psychologist, PhD
4 Endorsed
Online Only
You’ve checked all the boxes and done everything “right,” but under the surface, you feel numb, chaotic, anxious, or even broken. Maybe you’re constantly striving, stuck in perfectionism, and carrying the weight of past experiences that won’t let go. You push, push, push, always because deep down there's a fear that if you slow down, it could all fall apart. You are exhausted and no matter how much you do you never feel like you are enough. You want to feel like you are enough. I help high-achieving professionals and LGBTQIA+ adults move past crippling anxiety, depression, and perfectionism to reclaim autonomy and confidence.
You’ve checked all the boxes and done everything “right,” but under the surface, you feel numb, chaotic, anxious, or even broken. Maybe you’re constantly striving, stuck in perfectionism, and carrying the weight of past experiences that won’t let go. You push, push, push, always because deep down there's a fear that if you slow down, it could all fall apart. You are exhausted and no matter how much you do you never feel like you are enough. You want to feel like you are enough. I help high-achieving professionals and LGBTQIA+ adults move past crippling anxiety, depression, and perfectionism to reclaim autonomy and confidence.
(202) 968-1362 View (202) 968-1362
Photo of Chloe Michelle Goldbach, Psychologist, PhD
Chloe Michelle Goldbach
Psychologist, PhD
Washington, DC 20002
Waitlist for new clients
As a lesbian, gray-asexual, neurodivergent, transgender woman-identified psychologist, I am deeply passionate about helping clients 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 integrate approaches from DBT, ACT, feminist therapy, parts work, and trauma treatments, including CPT, to help honor each client's autonomy and strengths, externalize harmful messages learned from unsupportive environments, and provide practical coping strategies alongside emotional processing. I also provide psychological testing for ADHD and Autism.
As a lesbian, gray-asexual, neurodivergent, transgender woman-identified psychologist, I am deeply passionate about helping clients 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 integrate approaches from DBT, ACT, feminist therapy, parts work, and trauma treatments, including CPT, to help honor each client's autonomy and strengths, externalize harmful messages learned from unsupportive environments, and provide practical coping strategies alongside emotional processing. I also provide psychological testing for ADHD and Autism.
(202) 875-8673 View (202) 875-8673
Photo of J. Larissa Godfrey-Smith - Godfrey-Smith Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Godfrey-Smith Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Washington, DC 20002
We know that gender impacts all of us, cis folks included, and our practice was built with gender-diverse and transgender needs in mind.
Gender-focused queer care for folks of all ages and identities.
We know that gender impacts all of us, cis folks included, and our practice was built with gender-diverse and transgender needs in mind.
Gender-focused queer care for folks of all ages and identities.
(202) 831-4862 View (202) 831-4862
Photo of Jericho Feng, Counselor, LCPC
Jericho Feng
Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer neurodivergent-affirming and queer-affirming services, blending clinical rigor with cultural humility as an Asian-Spanish, transgender clinician.
Given the current political landscape, I'm opening a small access-rate therapy offering: 20 therapy sessions at $70 per session, which is about 42% off my lowest community rate. Working with a DBT-centered, queer, neurodivergent therapist often feels both grounding and empowering. You gain practical, evidence-based tools for navigating intense emotions while being fully seen, respected, and affirmed in your identity. Sessions blend structured DBT skills—such as mindfulness or distress tolerance—with a warm, nonjudgmental space where your identities are understood as integral to your life story, not something to explain or defend.
I offer neurodivergent-affirming and queer-affirming services, blending clinical rigor with cultural humility as an Asian-Spanish, transgender clinician.
Given the current political landscape, I'm opening a small access-rate therapy offering: 20 therapy sessions at $70 per session, which is about 42% off my lowest community rate. Working with a DBT-centered, queer, neurodivergent therapist often feels both grounding and empowering. You gain practical, evidence-based tools for navigating intense emotions while being fully seen, respected, and affirmed in your identity. Sessions blend structured DBT skills—such as mindfulness or distress tolerance—with a warm, nonjudgmental space where your identities are understood as integral to your life story, not something to explain or defend.
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Photo of Brittni Dash - SMYAL's LGBTQ+ Clinical Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
SMYAL's LGBTQ+ Clinical Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Washington, DC 20003
SMYAL’s mental health counseling services offer FREE therapy and provides a safe and inclusive space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. We know that finding a therapist who understands you and your community can be frustrating, expensive, and nerve-wracking. At SMYAL, we’re working to remove these barriers. Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re you’re struggling with self-acceptance, coming out, or dealing with discrimination, SMYAL is here for you!
SMYAL’s mental health counseling services offer FREE therapy and provides a safe and inclusive space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. We know that finding a therapist who understands you and your community can be frustrating, expensive, and nerve-wracking. At SMYAL, we’re working to remove these barriers. Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re you’re struggling with self-acceptance, coming out, or dealing with discrimination, SMYAL is here for you!
(202) 804-0992 View (202) 804-0992
Photo of Marlow Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SEP
Marlow Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SEP
Washington, DC 20010
I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment with space for people to explore what a life worth living looks like, especially for those who feel like an outsider due to gender identity, sexuality, or alternative relationship and family structure (such as polyamory and ethical non-monogamy).
Are you feeling stuck or unable to relax? Having difficulty with maintaining boundaries or communicating what you need? Wishing you could feel more affirmed or more comfortable to be yourself? In working with me, you will find that I have a person-centered approach. I will meet you where you are, and we’ll go from there to accomplish your goals. I have over 8 years experience working with adults navigating substance use, anxiety, depression, grief, questions around identity, and many forms of trauma.
I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment with space for people to explore what a life worth living looks like, especially for those who feel like an outsider due to gender identity, sexuality, or alternative relationship and family structure (such as polyamory and ethical non-monogamy).
Are you feeling stuck or unable to relax? Having difficulty with maintaining boundaries or communicating what you need? Wishing you could feel more affirmed or more comfortable to be yourself? In working with me, you will find that I have a person-centered approach. I will meet you where you are, and we’ll go from there to accomplish your goals. I have over 8 years experience working with adults navigating substance use, anxiety, depression, grief, questions around identity, and many forms of trauma.
(202) 684-9909 View (202) 684-9909
Photo of Dr. Rodrigo A Aguayo-Romero, Psychological Associate, PhD
Dr. Rodrigo A Aguayo-Romero
Psychological Associate, PhD
Washington, DC 20009
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.
(202) 519-8069 x180 View (202) 519-8069 x180
Photo of Larissa Godfrey-Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Larissa Godfrey-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Washington, DC 20002
They are transgender, queer, bisexual, non-monogamous, formerly religious, and often have untraditional family structures, including chosen family and deconstructed gender roles.
My office is warm and inviting, with comfy seats and soft lighting. I’m known for being laid back and inviting. I want my clients to be comfortable in session, so this means that we can think outside of the box; let’s knit or doodle while we talk, be irreverent, have coffee, and ultimately, be our most authentic selves together.
They are transgender, queer, bisexual, non-monogamous, formerly religious, and often have untraditional family structures, including chosen family and deconstructed gender roles.
My office is warm and inviting, with comfy seats and soft lighting. I’m known for being laid back and inviting. I want my clients to be comfortable in session, so this means that we can think outside of the box; let’s knit or doodle while we talk, be irreverent, have coffee, and ultimately, be our most authentic selves together.
(202) 301-4605 View (202) 301-4605
Photo of Dann Royal, Counselor, LGPC
Dann Royal
Counselor, LGPC
Washington, DC 20036
My belief that every individual is incredibly complex fuels my commitment to grounding my work in anti-oppressive values and a deep commitment to true healing and restoration. I have expertise working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, particularly those facing challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ identity and expression, neurodivergence, trauma, self compassion, and social connectedness. My identity and lived experiences, as a Black LGBTQIA+ therapist, allow me to meet clients with cultural awareness and authenticity, holding space for growth and possibility.
My belief that every individual is incredibly complex fuels my commitment to grounding my work in anti-oppressive values and a deep commitment to true healing and restoration. I have expertise working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, particularly those facing challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ identity and expression, neurodivergence, trauma, self compassion, and social connectedness. My identity and lived experiences, as a Black LGBTQIA+ therapist, allow me to meet clients with cultural awareness and authenticity, holding space for growth and possibility.
(202) 335-2709 View (202) 335-2709
Photo of Allie Kassraie, Resident in Counseling, LPGC, MT-BC
Allie Kassraie
Resident in Counseling, LPGC, MT-BC
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
With experience in queer and gender-affirming care, I take a creative, individualized approach to therapy that honors each client’s lived experience.
In my clinical work, I focus on LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent clients, college students, and those exploring identity and belonging. I offer a warm, collaborative space grounded in curiosity and compassion, helping clients build self-trust and resilience at their own pace.
With experience in queer and gender-affirming care, I take a creative, individualized approach to therapy that honors each client’s lived experience.
In my clinical work, I focus on LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent clients, college students, and those exploring identity and belonging. I offer a warm, collaborative space grounded in curiosity and compassion, helping clients build self-trust and resilience at their own pace.
(202) 858-0623 View (202) 858-0623
Photo of Michaela Hinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Michaela Hinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Online Only
Life as a neurodivergent person can present its own unique challenges. There are so many barriers to accessing essential things like education, meaningful work, and genuine connection. Constantly adapting to environments that don’t meet your needs can take a toll on both your emotional and physical health. And if you’re also part of the queer community, these challenges can feel even more intense. It can lead to isolation and the sense that you’re going it alone.
Life as a neurodivergent person can present its own unique challenges. There are so many barriers to accessing essential things like education, meaningful work, and genuine connection. Constantly adapting to environments that don’t meet your needs can take a toll on both your emotional and physical health. And if you’re also part of the queer community, these challenges can feel even more intense. It can lead to isolation and the sense that you’re going it alone.
(202) 914-5393 View (202) 914-5393
Photo of Chris Quam Sherman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, ERYT200, CPT, GFI
Chris Quam Sherman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, ERYT200, CPT, GFI
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
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?
We can work together on: navigating gender dysphoria, shutdowns/meltdowns, panic attacks, trauma, executive functioning, relationships, conflict, eating disorders, exercise compulsion/aversion, etc. Living in a world not made for us is challenging AND as a gender-expansive, autistic ADHDer, I fully believe that we have a right to show up as our true selves.
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?
We can work together on: navigating gender dysphoria, shutdowns/meltdowns, panic attacks, trauma, executive functioning, relationships, conflict, eating disorders, exercise compulsion/aversion, etc. Living in a world not made for us is challenging AND as a gender-expansive, autistic ADHDer, I fully believe that we have a right to show up as our true selves.
(202) 516-7609 View (202) 516-7609
Photo of Nancie E. Henley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CSTIP, C-DBT
Nancie E. Henley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CSTIP, C-DBT
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
You can become someone who you can learn to love and trust, and I would like to help you with that. My name is Ella Henley and I am a trauma therapist with over 20 years of experience working with survivors. I offer individual talk therapy services to address CPTSD, anxiety, dissociation, emotional regulation, identity, and attachment and developmental trauma. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse individuals. I am certified in both DBT (C-DBT), and as a Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP). I am Anti-Racist, Queer, Trans, Kink, and Poly affirming.
You can become someone who you can learn to love and trust, and I would like to help you with that. My name is Ella Henley and I am a trauma therapist with over 20 years of experience working with survivors. I offer individual talk therapy services to address CPTSD, anxiety, dissociation, emotional regulation, identity, and attachment and developmental trauma. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse individuals. I am certified in both DBT (C-DBT), and as a Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP). I am Anti-Racist, Queer, Trans, Kink, and Poly affirming.
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Photo of Janet Osherow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Janet Osherow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Washington, DC 20016
My broad range of experience includes helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, gender identity & issues related to sexual orientation.
I enjoy working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through this work, I developed a strong interest in family therapy and enjoy working with the family unit on effective communication skills and stress reduction/coping skills. I received my certification in Trauma Counseling for Children and Adolescents in 2011.
My broad range of experience includes helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, gender identity & issues related to sexual orientation.
I enjoy working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through this work, I developed a strong interest in family therapy and enjoy working with the family unit on effective communication skills and stress reduction/coping skills. I received my certification in Trauma Counseling for Children and Adolescents in 2011.
(202) 968-1332 View (202) 968-1332
Photo of Caroline Hicks, Psychologist, PhD
Caroline Hicks
Psychologist, PhD
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ (queer)/ transgender/nonbinary/questioning individuals, as well as young adults and students navigating major life transitions, anxiety, and identity development.
My approach is trauma-informed and grounding, and I tailor our work to your needs and lived experiences. Therapy with me is a place to slow down, feel supported, and reconnect with who you are.
I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ (queer)/ transgender/nonbinary/questioning individuals, as well as young adults and students navigating major life transitions, anxiety, and identity development.
My approach is trauma-informed and grounding, and I tailor our work to your needs and lived experiences. Therapy with me is a place to slow down, feel supported, and reconnect with who you are.
(202) 968-1812 View (202) 968-1812
Photo of Samantha Cooper - Unconventional Minds Coaching, MS
Unconventional Minds Coaching
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
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 & 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 & 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.
(347) 572-7803 View (347) 572-7803
Photo of Brooke Croft, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Brooke Croft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I work with individuals and couples navigating low sexual desire, mismatched desire, sexual anxiety, intimacy avoidance, sexual dysfunction, and questions around sexual or gender identity.
I help couples who feel distant, stuck in conflict, or unable to talk openly about sex & emotional needs reconnect with clarity & compassion. For individuals, therapy is a space to understand relationship patterns, strengthen boundaries, & build more fulfilling connections. Whether your concerns are new or long-standing, this is a supportive space for change
I work with individuals and couples navigating low sexual desire, mismatched desire, sexual anxiety, intimacy avoidance, sexual dysfunction, and questions around sexual or gender identity.
I help couples who feel distant, stuck in conflict, or unable to talk openly about sex & emotional needs reconnect with clarity & compassion. For individuals, therapy is a space to understand relationship patterns, strengthen boundaries, & build more fulfilling connections. Whether your concerns are new or long-standing, this is a supportive space for change
(571) 554-6366 View (571) 554-6366

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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.