LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Scottdale, GA

Photo of Shelby Speegle, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shelby Speegle
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079
I specialize in sex and relationship therapy. Simply put I want to help people get comfortable so they can thrive as a sexual (or A-sexual) being. I work with individuals and couples on a large range of issues from healing attachment wounds, overcoming jealousy, and increasing communication, to depression and anxiety for people in both monogamous and open relationships. I also work with individuals with HIV and Herpes to help them cope with stigma and have a thriving sex life. I am an LGBTQ+, intersex, kink and poly/enm affirming provider.
I specialize in sex and relationship therapy. Simply put I want to help people get comfortable so they can thrive as a sexual (or A-sexual) being. I work with individuals and couples on a large range of issues from healing attachment wounds, overcoming jealousy, and increasing communication, to depression and anxiety for people in both monogamous and open relationships. I also work with individuals with HIV and Herpes to help them cope with stigma and have a thriving sex life. I am an LGBTQ+, intersex, kink and poly/enm affirming provider.
(470) 777-9413 View (470) 777-9413
Photo of Rene Chandler, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rene Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079
Hello! I am located in Atlanta, Georgia, but provide telehealth in MD, VA, FL, WV, & NC. I specialize in working with children, teens, families, and adult individuals who have difficulty with anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation, behavioral concerns, or have experienced trauma. I have extensive experience supporting the adoption triad, and LGBTQ+ kids, families, and individuals. Rather than have a “one size fits all” perspective, I use a blend of treatment approaches to meet each client’s individual needs including play therapy, mindfulness and body-based work, CBT, ERP, EMDR, attachment and trauma-informed approaches.
Hello! I am located in Atlanta, Georgia, but provide telehealth in MD, VA, FL, WV, & NC. I specialize in working with children, teens, families, and adult individuals who have difficulty with anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation, behavioral concerns, or have experienced trauma. I have extensive experience supporting the adoption triad, and LGBTQ+ kids, families, and individuals. Rather than have a “one size fits all” perspective, I use a blend of treatment approaches to meet each client’s individual needs including play therapy, mindfulness and body-based work, CBT, ERP, EMDR, attachment and trauma-informed approaches.
(678) 737-4665 View (678) 737-4665
Photo of Monique Wischusen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monique Wischusen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Session times are 9 am-12 pm M-F. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Georgia. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of New Orleans and my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern Mississippi. I also earned the TeleMental Health Training Certificate (THTC) through the completion of the comprehensive THTC program. I have training in EMDR and Internal Family Systems and also am an adjunct faculty at the University of Southern New Hampshire in the Psychology Department.
Session times are 9 am-12 pm M-F. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Georgia. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of New Orleans and my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern Mississippi. I also earned the TeleMental Health Training Certificate (THTC) through the completion of the comprehensive THTC program. I have training in EMDR and Internal Family Systems and also am an adjunct faculty at the University of Southern New Hampshire in the Psychology Department.
(404) 369-1041 View (404) 369-1041
Photo of Charles Westbrook, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Charles Westbrook
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079
You are smart and resourceful, but your emotional difficulties and insecurities have proven to be more stubborn than other problems you've faced. Despite learning a lot about yourself through self-inquiry, reading, and prior experiences with therapy, you have once again come to the point of feeling stuck. You may feel like you are falling short of your potential. You may be exhausted yet too stressed out to rest. You may be too burnt out to work - almost as if you are broken. You may be experiencing intense feelings without obvious cause. Or maybe your relationship or parenting situation is so high-conflict that you feel hopeless.
You are smart and resourceful, but your emotional difficulties and insecurities have proven to be more stubborn than other problems you've faced. Despite learning a lot about yourself through self-inquiry, reading, and prior experiences with therapy, you have once again come to the point of feeling stuck. You may feel like you are falling short of your potential. You may be exhausted yet too stressed out to rest. You may be too burnt out to work - almost as if you are broken. You may be experiencing intense feelings without obvious cause. Or maybe your relationship or parenting situation is so high-conflict that you feel hopeless.
(404) 795-7507 View (404) 795-7507
Photo of Barrett Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barrett Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079
Hi! I'm glad you found your way here. Reaching out can be difficult. Often filled with anxiety, fear, and self-doubt. I've been there. Along the way, I've experienced how essential it is to talk with someone eager to listen deeply, respond compassionately, and support journeys of healing in creative and thoughtful ways. Whether you're facing a point of challenge, a period of crisis, or a chronic issue, I welcome the opportunity to bring my experience and training alongside your experience, values, and goals. Together, we can make something decent of this strange, messy, and perhaps even beautiful world.
Hi! I'm glad you found your way here. Reaching out can be difficult. Often filled with anxiety, fear, and self-doubt. I've been there. Along the way, I've experienced how essential it is to talk with someone eager to listen deeply, respond compassionately, and support journeys of healing in creative and thoughtful ways. Whether you're facing a point of challenge, a period of crisis, or a chronic issue, I welcome the opportunity to bring my experience and training alongside your experience, values, and goals. Together, we can make something decent of this strange, messy, and perhaps even beautiful world.
(470) 748-9924 View (470) 748-9924
Photo of Dr. Shnequia Webb, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Shnequia Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Georgia with over 15 years of experience working as a social worker and psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, communication issues, advocacy, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Georgia with over 15 years of experience working as a social worker and psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, communication issues, advocacy, grief and loss, and life transitions.
(678) 928-5799 View (678) 928-5799
Photo of Elisabeth Bletsch, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elisabeth Bletsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079
There are many things that may impact a person's ability to lead a full life, including challenges at work or school, relationship issues, depression and anxiety, and past traumas or losses. My goal as a therapist is to help clients move through their challenges and develop a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so they are able to live more satisfying and present lives. I do this by assisting clients in processing their feelings and identifying and connecting the things that have shaped them - including their relationships, thoughts, and attachment/trauma experiences - to their current issues.
There are many things that may impact a person's ability to lead a full life, including challenges at work or school, relationship issues, depression and anxiety, and past traumas or losses. My goal as a therapist is to help clients move through their challenges and develop a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so they are able to live more satisfying and present lives. I do this by assisting clients in processing their feelings and identifying and connecting the things that have shaped them - including their relationships, thoughts, and attachment/trauma experiences - to their current issues.
(616) 828-1992 View (616) 828-1992
Photo of Terri H Duda, LMSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terri H Duda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, JD
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079
Psychotherapy is my second career. As an attorney, I enjoyed working one-on-one with people, and I found myself drawn to my client's personal stories. After many years in law, I decided that a career as a therapist was my true passion. I employ a variety of approaches in my work including Dialetical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems. I have particular expertise in helping trauma survivors. I help people heal from complex trauma by providing a safe, caring, non-judgmental therapeutic environment.
Psychotherapy is my second career. As an attorney, I enjoyed working one-on-one with people, and I found myself drawn to my client's personal stories. After many years in law, I decided that a career as a therapist was my true passion. I employ a variety of approaches in my work including Dialetical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems. I have particular expertise in helping trauma survivors. I help people heal from complex trauma by providing a safe, caring, non-judgmental therapeutic environment.
(404) 418-6390 View (404) 418-6390
Photo of Lauren Street, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Street
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079  (Online Only)
I use an integrated therapeutic approach aimed to assist with anxiety, depression, mood management and life transitions.
I work with adolescents and young adults to address a wide range of emotional and interpersonal problems. My counseling approach is based on your needs, strengths and goals. I have knowledge and experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Being able to use my knowledge and experience to assist individuals in healing from negative experiences and overcoming obstacles is something that I not only am passionate about, but also have experience with.
I use an integrated therapeutic approach aimed to assist with anxiety, depression, mood management and life transitions.
I work with adolescents and young adults to address a wide range of emotional and interpersonal problems. My counseling approach is based on your needs, strengths and goals. I have knowledge and experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Being able to use my knowledge and experience to assist individuals in healing from negative experiences and overcoming obstacles is something that I not only am passionate about, but also have experience with.
(678) 944-7982 View (678) 944-7982
Photo of Julie Coker, LPC, CPCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Coker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079
Not accepting new clients
Nice to meet you! Unforeseen challenges and issues going on in the world can leave you reeling. Maybe you've been a pillar of strength to those around you but, at the same time, there seems to be no space left for you to meet your own needs. Self-critical thoughts, perfectionism and fear of falling behind can leave you feeling stuck: you want a better life for yourself and, at the same time, change seems daunting. Therapy can provide an accepting, wellness-focused environment for you to move to a place of growth and positive change.
Nice to meet you! Unforeseen challenges and issues going on in the world can leave you reeling. Maybe you've been a pillar of strength to those around you but, at the same time, there seems to be no space left for you to meet your own needs. Self-critical thoughts, perfectionism and fear of falling behind can leave you feeling stuck: you want a better life for yourself and, at the same time, change seems daunting. Therapy can provide an accepting, wellness-focused environment for you to move to a place of growth and positive change.
(678) 719-0294 View (678) 719-0294

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Abeke Baker - All 1 Family, Inc (LGBTQ Affirming Clinic), LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
All 1 Family, Inc (LGBTQ Affirming Clinic)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
All-1-Family’s mission is to provide affordable, low-cost counseling service for all LGBT+ persons and our allies and to function as a bridge to connect the gap between LGBT+ persons who are interested in counseling with a mental health professional who can affirm their identity, lifestyle and being in a safe space.
Everyone deserves a safe space. Our aim at All-1-Family is to provide a safe space for all persons, but in particular, LGBT+ identified persons in the Atlanta metro area to simply, be.
All-1-Family’s mission is to provide affordable, low-cost counseling service for all LGBT+ persons and our allies and to function as a bridge to connect the gap between LGBT+ persons who are interested in counseling with a mental health professional who can affirm their identity, lifestyle and being in a safe space.
Everyone deserves a safe space. Our aim at All-1-Family is to provide a safe space for all persons, but in particular, LGBT+ identified persons in the Atlanta metro area to simply, be.
(404) 869-3932 View (404) 869-3932
Photo of Alexander Hoffman, APC, MEd, Counselor
Alexander Hoffman
Counselor, APC, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I am a gay, transgender clinician dedicated to providing individual therapy to Georgia’s gender, sexuality, and relationship structure minority communities.
If you are LGBTQ+, polyamorous, kinky, or exploring your identity, it can be exhausting to navigate a world that isn't made for you. If you are drowning under the pressure of today’s demands, how can you find the energy to work on your goals, learn who you are, or take time to enjoy life? You may feel alone, and in need of support on your journey of gender or sexuality exploration. You might find yourself numb and in emotional pain, wishing people could see and understand your real self. You’re ready to get help, and you want a therapist that specializes in clients like you.
I am a gay, transgender clinician dedicated to providing individual therapy to Georgia’s gender, sexuality, and relationship structure minority communities.
If you are LGBTQ+, polyamorous, kinky, or exploring your identity, it can be exhausting to navigate a world that isn't made for you. If you are drowning under the pressure of today’s demands, how can you find the energy to work on your goals, learn who you are, or take time to enjoy life? You may feel alone, and in need of support on your journey of gender or sexuality exploration. You might find yourself numb and in emotional pain, wishing people could see and understand your real self. You’re ready to get help, and you want a therapist that specializes in clients like you.
(470) 709-0294 View (470) 709-0294
Photo of Felicia Kanu, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Felicia Kanu
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
My therapy is informed by intersectional and decolonized theories and politics such as: Black Feminism Theory, Queer Sexualities, Fat Liberation, Ethical Non-Monogamy and non-hierarchical forms of relationships, Disability Justice, Sex Positivity, and Liberation Health Model.
I am a Black queer cis woman. I hold space as a guide and a supporter in my individual and couples therapy sessions. I strive to make therapy accessible with clear, direct communication, warm energy, and pre-emptive radically inclusive stance. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Smith College School for Social Work. As a master-level social worker, I am currently pursuing my licensure in the state of Georgia under supervision at Heartwork. At Heartwork Counseling Center, we do not take insurance. We do offer a sliding scale. My fee is $150. I offer in-person sessions in Decatur, GA.
My therapy is informed by intersectional and decolonized theories and politics such as: Black Feminism Theory, Queer Sexualities, Fat Liberation, Ethical Non-Monogamy and non-hierarchical forms of relationships, Disability Justice, Sex Positivity, and Liberation Health Model.
I am a Black queer cis woman. I hold space as a guide and a supporter in my individual and couples therapy sessions. I strive to make therapy accessible with clear, direct communication, warm energy, and pre-emptive radically inclusive stance. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Smith College School for Social Work. As a master-level social worker, I am currently pursuing my licensure in the state of Georgia under supervision at Heartwork. At Heartwork Counseling Center, we do not take insurance. We do offer a sliding scale. My fee is $150. I offer in-person sessions in Decatur, GA.
(404) 941-2502 View (404) 941-2502
Photo of Grant D. Sparks, MS, LPC, NCC, CGT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Grant D. Sparks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CGT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Do you love video games? Comic books? Dungeons and Dragons? Do feel nervous or afraid all the time? Or sad, disconnected? Have you ever felt like an outcast, misfit, or weirdo? Have you ever asked yourself "Is any of this even real?" or "Am I an NPC?" If so, you may have just found your therapist. I work with geeks, nerds, dorks, and dweebs, LGBTQIA folx, the Kink and Polyamory/ENM communities and people of all cultures and spiritualities. So let's play Minecraft while you process, write fanfic about overcoming adversity, or if you're brave, use Dark Souls to practice coping with big emotions. Makes therapy sound kinda fun, right?
Do you love video games? Comic books? Dungeons and Dragons? Do feel nervous or afraid all the time? Or sad, disconnected? Have you ever felt like an outcast, misfit, or weirdo? Have you ever asked yourself "Is any of this even real?" or "Am I an NPC?" If so, you may have just found your therapist. I work with geeks, nerds, dorks, and dweebs, LGBTQIA folx, the Kink and Polyamory/ENM communities and people of all cultures and spiritualities. So let's play Minecraft while you process, write fanfic about overcoming adversity, or if you're brave, use Dark Souls to practice coping with big emotions. Makes therapy sound kinda fun, right?
(678) 928-5779 View (678) 928-5779
Photo of Misti Storie, MS, NCC, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Misti Storie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I specialize in counseling services concerning LGBTQIA+ clients, substance use, depression and despair, stress and anxiety, trauma, life adjustment/ transition, grief and loss, couples/family dynamics.
My goal is to provide cost-effective, solution-focused treatment to help you feel better in the shortest amount of time. I recognize that whatever brings you to therapy has created pain or problems. That's why we will immediately begin work on how to gain short-term and long-term relief.
I specialize in counseling services concerning LGBTQIA+ clients, substance use, depression and despair, stress and anxiety, trauma, life adjustment/ transition, grief and loss, couples/family dynamics.
My goal is to provide cost-effective, solution-focused treatment to help you feel better in the shortest amount of time. I recognize that whatever brings you to therapy has created pain or problems. That's why we will immediately begin work on how to gain short-term and long-term relief.
(404) 666-8437 View (404) 666-8437
Photo of John R Ballew, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John R Ballew
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a gay man I strongly support empowerment of women.
I help people who are feeling overwhelmed get back on track. I assist young adults anxious about work or life who need support and tools to move ahead. Clients of all ages may be going through challenges or life transitions - career, divorce, medical issues, retirement - that show up as anxiety or depression or just feeling stuck. We'll explore what's not working and I'll help you make changes so life can be better. If this is your first time working with a psychotherapist, I'll do my best to explain how therapy works. Good counseling is always a collaboration.
As a gay man I strongly support empowerment of women.
I help people who are feeling overwhelmed get back on track. I assist young adults anxious about work or life who need support and tools to move ahead. Clients of all ages may be going through challenges or life transitions - career, divorce, medical issues, retirement - that show up as anxiety or depression or just feeling stuck. We'll explore what's not working and I'll help you make changes so life can be better. If this is your first time working with a psychotherapist, I'll do my best to explain how therapy works. Good counseling is always a collaboration.
(404) 566-7345 View (404) 566-7345
Photo of Dr. Émilie Ellis, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Émilie Ellis
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! I work primarily with LGBTQ+ people who have experienced trauma and are looking to improve their lives. This might be wanting to feel less anxious or depressed, have healthier relationships, have a deeper knowledge of yourself, or something else. I also have a particular interest in working with clients living with disabilities and chronic conditions, especially those who are "in transition" from non-disabled to disabled. I am a Qualifying WPATH Member and can provide mental health services for individuals looking for support specific to gender-related topics, like social & medical transitioning.
Accepting new clients! I work primarily with LGBTQ+ people who have experienced trauma and are looking to improve their lives. This might be wanting to feel less anxious or depressed, have healthier relationships, have a deeper knowledge of yourself, or something else. I also have a particular interest in working with clients living with disabilities and chronic conditions, especially those who are "in transition" from non-disabled to disabled. I am a Qualifying WPATH Member and can provide mental health services for individuals looking for support specific to gender-related topics, like social & medical transitioning.
View
Photo of Julius Jessup Peterson, MDiv, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julius Jessup Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LCSW
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Developing my own internal resources has helped me to move through some very difficult times as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
I seek to create a safe and inclusive space for black-bodied individuals, LGBTQ+ folks, survivors of trauma, sex workers, and clients who are struggling with relationship and intimacy issues. My approach to mental health care is rooted in anti-oppressive and decolonizing frameworks. The treatment modalities that I use have been found to be effective across many cultures, ages, genders, and experiences. I am here to support my clients in rediscovering themselves, strengthening their mind-body connection, and living the life they have always wanted.
Developing my own internal resources has helped me to move through some very difficult times as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
I seek to create a safe and inclusive space for black-bodied individuals, LGBTQ+ folks, survivors of trauma, sex workers, and clients who are struggling with relationship and intimacy issues. My approach to mental health care is rooted in anti-oppressive and decolonizing frameworks. The treatment modalities that I use have been found to be effective across many cultures, ages, genders, and experiences. I am here to support my clients in rediscovering themselves, strengthening their mind-body connection, and living the life they have always wanted.
(404) 626-2976 View (404) 626-2976
Photo of Madeline Thompson Smith, APC, MEd
Madeline Thompson Smith
APC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I am passionate about working with LGBTQ+ individuals and have specific training in serving those who are marginalized in society.
Sometimes life feels overwhelming, confusing, or painful. In those moments, making a connection with a counselor can be a powerful experience, and I am grateful to work each day with clients like you. I work with all ages, from 4 to 94, individually or in relationships. We work to understand your emotions, process past experiences, and learn skills to get unstuck. It's never too early or late. I am committed to offering counseling services that embrace the different identifies and experiences that each person brings to the room. I work together with you to understand your life experiences and to make the changes you're looking for.
I am passionate about working with LGBTQ+ individuals and have specific training in serving those who are marginalized in society.
Sometimes life feels overwhelming, confusing, or painful. In those moments, making a connection with a counselor can be a powerful experience, and I am grateful to work each day with clients like you. I work with all ages, from 4 to 94, individually or in relationships. We work to understand your emotions, process past experiences, and learn skills to get unstuck. It's never too early or late. I am committed to offering counseling services that embrace the different identifies and experiences that each person brings to the room. I work together with you to understand your life experiences and to make the changes you're looking for.
(314) 282-7007 View (314) 282-7007
Photo of Keilan Rickard, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Keilan Rickard
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30032  (Online Only)
While I am a generalist, I have expertise in working with college students as well as folks from the queer and trans community.
I have been a licensed psychologist for more than a decade. I offer individual therapy (via telehealth only) to treat a wide range of concerns. If you are located in Tennessee, North Carolina, or Georgia, contact me for a free consultation.
While I am a generalist, I have expertise in working with college students as well as folks from the queer and trans community.
I have been a licensed psychologist for more than a decade. I offer individual therapy (via telehealth only) to treat a wide range of concerns. If you are located in Tennessee, North Carolina, or Georgia, contact me for a free consultation.
(404) 738-6072 View (404) 738-6072

See more therapy options for Scottdale

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.