Photo of Tri-Meta Counseling & Associates, Marriage & Family Therapist in 07042, NJ
Tri-Meta Counseling & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
meaning we are qualified to treat individuals, adolescents, couples, and families for all manner of needs and areSome specializations include: Marital and Family Therapy, LGBTQ+ Concerns, Gender Identity, Depression & Anxiety, Trauma, Chronic Illness, Grief Counseling, Couples' Counseling, Immigration and Acculturation Trauma, Sexual Assault, Racial Concerns.
Tri-Meta proudly offers individual therapy, marital/couples' counseling, and family therapy. We believe that your story extends beyond the problems and issues you’re facing right now. We know how important it is to take your entire life experience and identity into account when helping you navigate through present struggles. We have worked to build a team of diverse, experienced, and dedicated therapists who are passionate about providing support to all individuals and communities. Each of our therapists has extensive training in systemic psychotherapy –
meaning we are qualified to treat individuals, adolescents, couples, and families for all manner of needs and areSome specializations include: Marital and Family Therapy, LGBTQ+ Concerns, Gender Identity, Depression & Anxiety, Trauma, Chronic Illness, Grief Counseling, Couples' Counseling, Immigration and Acculturation Trauma, Sexual Assault, Racial Concerns.
Tri-Meta proudly offers individual therapy, marital/couples' counseling, and family therapy. We believe that your story extends beyond the problems and issues you’re facing right now. We know how important it is to take your entire life experience and identity into account when helping you navigate through present struggles. We have worked to build a team of diverse, experienced, and dedicated therapists who are passionate about providing support to all individuals and communities. Each of our therapists has extensive training in systemic psychotherapy –
(973) 447-1493 View (973) 447-1493
Photo of Sharon Rothbart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Sharon Rothbart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I will assist you in identifying your strengths, and to help you flourish. I appreciate people's complexities, and will help you formulate the best way to move toward your goals. I have experience supporting clients with anxieties, panic, trauma, depression, isolation, divorce, relationship and career issues, and the grief associated with illness or loss. I am an avid LGBTQ supporter and have a deep commitment to human rights and exploring the gender spectrum as part of a healthy journey in life. I also help parents understand, support and accept children who are in the process of questioning their gender.
I will assist you in identifying your strengths, and to help you flourish. I appreciate people's complexities, and will help you formulate the best way to move toward your goals. I have experience supporting clients with anxieties, panic, trauma, depression, isolation, divorce, relationship and career issues, and the grief associated with illness or loss. I am an avid LGBTQ supporter and have a deep commitment to human rights and exploring the gender spectrum as part of a healthy journey in life. I also help parents understand, support and accept children who are in the process of questioning their gender.
(973) 888-1125 View (973) 888-1125
Photo of Les Kooyman, Licensed Professional Counselor in 07042, NJ
Les Kooyman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I have successfully worked with LGBTQ individuals and individuals struggling with loss (grief counseling) and relationship issues (couples counseling) for many years.
I believe therapy is a caring, supportive, challenging, and collaborative process of exploring areas of your life that are concerning to you and you'd like to learn how to manage better. I follow a strengths-based, person-centered approach where we discuss and explore areas of your life you are concerned about and I assist you in making the real changes you seek. I'm easy going guy who uses humor, homework, insight readings, and other resources to support and challenge you to create change in your life.
I have successfully worked with LGBTQ individuals and individuals struggling with loss (grief counseling) and relationship issues (couples counseling) for many years.
I believe therapy is a caring, supportive, challenging, and collaborative process of exploring areas of your life that are concerning to you and you'd like to learn how to manage better. I follow a strengths-based, person-centered approach where we discuss and explore areas of your life you are concerned about and I assist you in making the real changes you seek. I'm easy going guy who uses humor, homework, insight readings, and other resources to support and challenge you to create change in your life.
(704) 761-6736 View (704) 761-6736
Photo of Institute for Personal Growth - Jersey City, Psychologist in 07042, NJ
Institute for Personal Growth - Jersey City
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
We work with PTSD/trauma (including EMDR), anger management, couples/marriage and family counseling, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, trans/non-binary/GNC youth and adults, ketamine therapy, EMDR, and more.
On the fence about therapy? Ask for the first session free when you contact us, to see if it's right for you. IPG has around 30 therapists, with 400+ years combined experience, in 3 offices throughout NJ (Jersey City, Highland Park, Freehold). Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We see individuals, couples, families, adults, children and adolescents, from every walk of life. Our large and diverse clinical staff means we cover practically every specialty, population, mental health issue, and form of treatment there is, and chances are we can accommodate your schedule, location, and other needs.
We work with PTSD/trauma (including EMDR), anger management, couples/marriage and family counseling, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, trans/non-binary/GNC youth and adults, ketamine therapy, EMDR, and more.
On the fence about therapy? Ask for the first session free when you contact us, to see if it's right for you. IPG has around 30 therapists, with 400+ years combined experience, in 3 offices throughout NJ (Jersey City, Highland Park, Freehold). Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We see individuals, couples, families, adults, children and adolescents, from every walk of life. Our large and diverse clinical staff means we cover practically every specialty, population, mental health issue, and form of treatment there is, and chances are we can accommodate your schedule, location, and other needs.
(848) 222-8978 View (848) 222-8978
Photo of Samantha J Smith: Transgender Queer Specialized Hrt letters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Samantha J Smith: Transgender Queer Specialized Hrt letters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
We are a group of LGBT affirming and informed therapists dedicated to providing adequate support to the community. Life can throw obstacles our way and it is when we have a supportive, safe environment to help us get on the path toward who we truly are that we can thrive and be the best version of ourselves. We embody a positive, strength-based approach designed to empower the individual and guide them in helping themselves. We also aim to assist clients in regulating symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
We are a group of LGBT affirming and informed therapists dedicated to providing adequate support to the community. Life can throw obstacles our way and it is when we have a supportive, safe environment to help us get on the path toward who we truly are that we can thrive and be the best version of ourselves. We embody a positive, strength-based approach designed to empower the individual and guide them in helping themselves. We also aim to assist clients in regulating symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
(201) 399-3591 View (201) 399-3591
Photo of Rebecca Gillespie, Marriage & Family Therapist in 07042, NJ
Rebecca Gillespie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I have extensive experience working with the LGBT community.
My goal is to create a safe space where everyone can feel heard and validated. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, relationship problems, grief, and transitional issues. I have a passion for working with adolescents, both individually and with their families. Adolescence can be a challenging times for families and I believe in creating an open environment for encouraging both communication and the acceptance of needed privacy. I have extensive training and experience in systemic family therapy. This means that I am able to treat not only the individual, but also the entire family of origin, where appropriate.
I have extensive experience working with the LGBT community.
My goal is to create a safe space where everyone can feel heard and validated. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, relationship problems, grief, and transitional issues. I have a passion for working with adolescents, both individually and with their families. Adolescence can be a challenging times for families and I believe in creating an open environment for encouraging both communication and the acceptance of needed privacy. I have extensive training and experience in systemic family therapy. This means that I am able to treat not only the individual, but also the entire family of origin, where appropriate.
(848) 222-3601 View (848) 222-3601
Photo of Chanta Blue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Chanta Blue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I specialize in working with young adults, women of color (trans & moc-inclusive), and folks in romantic relationships who are interested in improving their self-esteem, experiencing sexual difficulties, premarital counseling or are frustrated by societal expectations.
Relationships can be tough to manage no matter what the circumstances. But there's hope for the relationship you want, maybe you just need a little help. I am known as the therapist who empowers, educates, and supports those who are looking to become their most authentic and unapologetic selves. Whether you struggle with sexual challenges, are getting frustrated with your dating options, or you are looking for ways to explore your sexuality, I provide a safe and comfortable environment that makes sharing easy and less threatening.
I specialize in working with young adults, women of color (trans & moc-inclusive), and folks in romantic relationships who are interested in improving their self-esteem, experiencing sexual difficulties, premarital counseling or are frustrated by societal expectations.
Relationships can be tough to manage no matter what the circumstances. But there's hope for the relationship you want, maybe you just need a little help. I am known as the therapist who empowers, educates, and supports those who are looking to become their most authentic and unapologetic selves. Whether you struggle with sexual challenges, are getting frustrated with your dating options, or you are looking for ways to explore your sexuality, I provide a safe and comfortable environment that makes sharing easy and less threatening.
(201) 645-4972 View (201) 645-4972
Photo of Adrienne Riofrio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Adrienne Riofrio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Whether you are experiencing a specific challenge or a general sense that your life can be better, therapy can help. I am an empathic, insightful therapist with 20+ years of experience and training in couple's therapy, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA, anxiety, immigration, family conflict, relationship issues, loss, and parenting. I am an active participant in your journey; one who will be direct about my thoughts and observations. I am a Latina and multicultural, anti-racist, LGBTQ-affirming clinician with a focus on exploring our multiple identities. Soy Latina y hablo espanol.
Whether you are experiencing a specific challenge or a general sense that your life can be better, therapy can help. I am an empathic, insightful therapist with 20+ years of experience and training in couple's therapy, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA, anxiety, immigration, family conflict, relationship issues, loss, and parenting. I am an active participant in your journey; one who will be direct about my thoughts and observations. I am a Latina and multicultural, anti-racist, LGBTQ-affirming clinician with a focus on exploring our multiple identities. Soy Latina y hablo espanol.
(973) 860-3202 View (973) 860-3202
Photo of Ali Whitney, Counselor in 07042, NJ
Ali Whitney
Counselor, LAC, MA, EdS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Much of my work has been dedicated to helping families experiencing major life transitions, focusing on healthy co-parenting, relationship challenges, divorce, and more. Not only do I consider myself a ‘safe place’ for all my clients, but I prioritize gender affirmation and have a comprehensive understanding of the complex ways in which the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as other diverse communities, have been impacted.
Much of my work has been dedicated to helping families experiencing major life transitions, focusing on healthy co-parenting, relationship challenges, divorce, and more. Not only do I consider myself a ‘safe place’ for all my clients, but I prioritize gender affirmation and have a comprehensive understanding of the complex ways in which the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as other diverse communities, have been impacted.
(973) 453-0584 View (973) 453-0584
Photo of Christina Andino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Christina Andino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I have experience working with teens, adults, and couples of various backgrounds, including people of color, LGBTQIA+, foster care, adoption, and Military/Veteran communities.
You have tried everything you could to feel better, but you’ve reached the point where you need some extra help. The anxiety, depression, and/or trauma that are weighing on you daily has started to impact your job or school performance and relationships. You are feeling burnt out. Therapy may be new to you and it’s common to feel nervous about starting the process. We can work together and create a plan to help you manage and decrease stress. I will teach you healthy skills to use for coping, communication, reframing thoughts, and changing behaviors. I can help you feel empowered so that you are more in control of your life.
I have experience working with teens, adults, and couples of various backgrounds, including people of color, LGBTQIA+, foster care, adoption, and Military/Veteran communities.
You have tried everything you could to feel better, but you’ve reached the point where you need some extra help. The anxiety, depression, and/or trauma that are weighing on you daily has started to impact your job or school performance and relationships. You are feeling burnt out. Therapy may be new to you and it’s common to feel nervous about starting the process. We can work together and create a plan to help you manage and decrease stress. I will teach you healthy skills to use for coping, communication, reframing thoughts, and changing behaviors. I can help you feel empowered so that you are more in control of your life.
(201) 514-6689 View (201) 514-6689
Photo of Patience Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Patience Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
You feel worried about your KID. They used to be so sunny. You used to feel connected. Now, your child is struggling.You feel frustrated, sad…helpless.You want to help and support them to feel better, happier.You just want your kid back. I can help. I work with ADULTS helping navigate anxiety,crises,relationship and "life" issues with compassion wisdom and practical solutions. LGBTQ welcome!
You feel worried about your KID. They used to be so sunny. You used to feel connected. Now, your child is struggling.You feel frustrated, sad…helpless.You want to help and support them to feel better, happier.You just want your kid back. I can help. I work with ADULTS helping navigate anxiety,crises,relationship and "life" issues with compassion wisdom and practical solutions. LGBTQ welcome!
(973) 828-0232 View (973) 828-0232
Photo of Melissa Tihinen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Melissa Tihinen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
My specialties include working with clients on various types of concerns including depression, anxiety, sexual assault/abuse, relationship difficulties, trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, and substance use.
Therapy can be helpful for people in a variety of circumstances. Clients have reached out to me because they are going through a significant transition in their lives, because they are experiencing relationship challenges, or because they are having difficulty reaching their goals. Many clients also reach out because they have noticed patterns in how they relate to others that they feel are concerning.
My specialties include working with clients on various types of concerns including depression, anxiety, sexual assault/abuse, relationship difficulties, trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, and substance use.
Therapy can be helpful for people in a variety of circumstances. Clients have reached out to me because they are going through a significant transition in their lives, because they are experiencing relationship challenges, or because they are having difficulty reaching their goals. Many clients also reach out because they have noticed patterns in how they relate to others that they feel are concerning.
(646) 760-8343 View (646) 760-8343
Photo of Debra Yeager, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Debra Yeager
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
My practice is filled with clients with a variety of needs, however, I specialize in Sex Therapy, Intimacy Issues, and Marriage and Couples Counseling, I am an ally to the LGBTQ+ community and am kink-friendly.
The most important thing I want to convey to you is that I am really excited to meet you. I am being handed an opportunity to connect with another person. I am often struck by how powerful this journey can be. You are bringing a host of emotions with you. Please know that I will do everything in my power to make you feel welcome, connected, understood and safe so you can openly share your feelings and frustrations. My office is the place for you to be you, with no judgments and nothing but a warm, listening and caring professional.
My practice is filled with clients with a variety of needs, however, I specialize in Sex Therapy, Intimacy Issues, and Marriage and Couples Counseling, I am an ally to the LGBTQ+ community and am kink-friendly.
The most important thing I want to convey to you is that I am really excited to meet you. I am being handed an opportunity to connect with another person. I am often struck by how powerful this journey can be. You are bringing a host of emotions with you. Please know that I will do everything in my power to make you feel welcome, connected, understood and safe so you can openly share your feelings and frustrations. My office is the place for you to be you, with no judgments and nothing but a warm, listening and caring professional.
(201) 625-1709 View (201) 625-1709
Photo of Kristine Seitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Kristine Seitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am a sex-positive, LGBTQ+, kink, and polyam affirming therapist.
Looking for a therapist can be a vulnerable time. Thank you for taking the first step. I believe that our relationships are the cornerstone of of our lives. This includes our relationship with our self, our family, our partner(s), our friends, and our community. I am an empathetic, collaborative, and strengths-based therapist. Through a systemic approach, I both support and challenge my clients by helping them to identify stuck points, heal wounds, re-write narratives, and strengthen relationships.
I am a sex-positive, LGBTQ+, kink, and polyam affirming therapist.
Looking for a therapist can be a vulnerable time. Thank you for taking the first step. I believe that our relationships are the cornerstone of of our lives. This includes our relationship with our self, our family, our partner(s), our friends, and our community. I am an empathetic, collaborative, and strengths-based therapist. Through a systemic approach, I both support and challenge my clients by helping them to identify stuck points, heal wounds, re-write narratives, and strengthen relationships.
(215) 882-9078 View (215) 882-9078
Photo of Couples Therapy: Resolution Counseling Ctr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Couples Therapy: Resolution Counseling Ctr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
You want your committed relationship to work, you want to communicate more effectively, and you want to enjoy life with your spouse or partner. Our team of therapists specialize in Gottman Method couples counseling, an approach that distills decades of relationship research into practical strategies that promote healing and connection. Our approach starts with a thorough assessment and customized treatment plan that will equip you and your partner to move in a better direction. We are LGBTQ-affirming. View openings and request your first appointment: www.resolutioncc.com/team
You want your committed relationship to work, you want to communicate more effectively, and you want to enjoy life with your spouse or partner. Our team of therapists specialize in Gottman Method couples counseling, an approach that distills decades of relationship research into practical strategies that promote healing and connection. Our approach starts with a thorough assessment and customized treatment plan that will equip you and your partner to move in a better direction. We are LGBTQ-affirming. View openings and request your first appointment: www.resolutioncc.com/team
(201) 793-8899 View (201) 793-8899
Photo of Maureen Mulvanerton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Maureen Mulvanerton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Accepting new clients! I am here to help. I utilize a holistic approach in working with clients, which encompasses components of cognitive behavior theory, trauma-informed interventions, positive behavioral supports and solution-focused methods. I believe in the value of the therapeutic relationship and strive to provide a safe environment for clients to feel validated, understood, and more capable of moving forward through life’s challenges. Clinical areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, trauma, loss/grief, parenting, life transitions, relationship issues, school avoidance, LGBTQ community, and learning disabilities.
Accepting new clients! I am here to help. I utilize a holistic approach in working with clients, which encompasses components of cognitive behavior theory, trauma-informed interventions, positive behavioral supports and solution-focused methods. I believe in the value of the therapeutic relationship and strive to provide a safe environment for clients to feel validated, understood, and more capable of moving forward through life’s challenges. Clinical areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, trauma, loss/grief, parenting, life transitions, relationship issues, school avoidance, LGBTQ community, and learning disabilities.
(908) 246-1480 View (908) 246-1480
Photo of Bridging Bonds LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in 07042, NJ
Bridging Bonds LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
My speciality is on couples, family and adolescents with years of experience working with issues related to marital, family and relationships challenges, LGBTQ+ and Latinx community, adolescent issues, parenting, depression and anxiety.
Hi , I'm Yensy! I am a bilingual and able to provide therapy to both Spanish speaking couples, families and individuals as well as those who speak English. I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist with level 1 training on Gottman Method Couples Therapy; an evidenced based therapy that increases closeness and friendship behaviors while addressing conflict productively. I offer marriage, family and couples therapy as well as individual counseling.
My speciality is on couples, family and adolescents with years of experience working with issues related to marital, family and relationships challenges, LGBTQ+ and Latinx community, adolescent issues, parenting, depression and anxiety.
Hi , I'm Yensy! I am a bilingual and able to provide therapy to both Spanish speaking couples, families and individuals as well as those who speak English. I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist with level 1 training on Gottman Method Couples Therapy; an evidenced based therapy that increases closeness and friendship behaviors while addressing conflict productively. I offer marriage, family and couples therapy as well as individual counseling.
(862) 261-0215 View (862) 261-0215
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Lebolt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Dr. Jonathan Lebolt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, CGP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Each crisis in our lives is an opportunity for healing and growth. My primary approach is relational psychoanalytic, meaning I help patients use the healing power of the therapeutic relationship to uncover and work on their deepest conflicts. An interactive and empathic therapist, I offer advice and support when needed, and I share my own experiences when I think they will be helpful. Though I have extensive, in-depth training, I rely greatly on intuition and humor in my work.
Each crisis in our lives is an opportunity for healing and growth. My primary approach is relational psychoanalytic, meaning I help patients use the healing power of the therapeutic relationship to uncover and work on their deepest conflicts. An interactive and empathic therapist, I offer advice and support when needed, and I share my own experiences when I think they will be helpful. Though I have extensive, in-depth training, I rely greatly on intuition and humor in my work.
(973) 798-9169 View (973) 798-9169
Photo of Charlie Schweikert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Charlie Schweikert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
Starting the therapy process can lead to a fulfilling experience. Whether you are experiencing a crisis, or want to gain a deeper understanding of how you operate, becoming involved in therapy can broaden your life by becoming aware of unconscious influences of the past and their connection to behaviors in the present. Therapy can also be a space for people to approach conflict with loved ones. If you're feeling unsure about therapy, give me a call and we can set up a free phone consultation.
Starting the therapy process can lead to a fulfilling experience. Whether you are experiencing a crisis, or want to gain a deeper understanding of how you operate, becoming involved in therapy can broaden your life by becoming aware of unconscious influences of the past and their connection to behaviors in the present. Therapy can also be a space for people to approach conflict with loved ones. If you're feeling unsure about therapy, give me a call and we can set up a free phone consultation.
(646) 759-9351 View (646) 759-9351
Photo of Chris DeSerio in 07042, NJ
Chris DeSerio
MA, CHT
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
In all his work, Chris always looks towards your empowerment and in that provides guidance and helps you to truly recognize your strengths and how to build upon them. Most every appointment is available and is as effective by phone or video chat (Zoom or FaceTime), and can further be more expeditiously scheduled these ways. Guidance, support, and objectivity are key elements in any service provided along with the addition of any tools and action plans as appropriate that have you manifest more of what you want being an active agent of your own change. Chris' experience is with ages 4 and up with children, adolescents, and adults.
In all his work, Chris always looks towards your empowerment and in that provides guidance and helps you to truly recognize your strengths and how to build upon them. Most every appointment is available and is as effective by phone or video chat (Zoom or FaceTime), and can further be more expeditiously scheduled these ways. Guidance, support, and objectivity are key elements in any service provided along with the addition of any tools and action plans as appropriate that have you manifest more of what you want being an active agent of your own change. Chris' experience is with ages 4 and up with children, adolescents, and adults.
(201) 233-4838 View (201) 233-4838
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.