Photo of Stuart Singer, Psychologist in 10001, NY
Stuart Singer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in New York and New Jersey providing individual and couples therapy to adults. I have experience working with clients with a wide variety of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, concerns related to gender/sexuality, substance use/addiction, trauma/PTSD, relationship difficulties, and major life transitions. I particularly enjoy working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, young professionals, and artists. My approach to therapy is warm and active, prioritizing curiosity, care, and collaboration. Together, we'll tailor a treatment to meet your unique needs.
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in New York and New Jersey providing individual and couples therapy to adults. I have experience working with clients with a wide variety of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, concerns related to gender/sexuality, substance use/addiction, trauma/PTSD, relationship difficulties, and major life transitions. I particularly enjoy working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, young professionals, and artists. My approach to therapy is warm and active, prioritizing curiosity, care, and collaboration. Together, we'll tailor a treatment to meet your unique needs.
(929) 547-8688 View (929) 547-8688
Photo of Amos Wolff, Marriage & Family Therapist in 10001, NY
Amos Wolff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I utilize affirming frameworks that: embrace LGBTQ+ identity and sex and kink positivity in monogamous or alternative relationship structures, manage negative consequences associated with drug use through a Harm Reduction paradigm, and help heal past trauma through grounding and mindfulness practices.
Guided introspection leading to actionable connections is a tonic in an increasingly isolating, and volatile world. Whether this is your first time in therapy or another chapter on your quest for fulfillment in relationship with yourself and others, I am dedicated to meeting you where you are. Together we will bear witness to joys and challenges of being a human in our modern society, and celebrate the richness of humanity. As a trained couples and family therapist, I utilize a variety of theories integrating my past experience in both the performing arts and as a yoga instructor to provide a creative, holistic experience.
I utilize affirming frameworks that: embrace LGBTQ+ identity and sex and kink positivity in monogamous or alternative relationship structures, manage negative consequences associated with drug use through a Harm Reduction paradigm, and help heal past trauma through grounding and mindfulness practices.
Guided introspection leading to actionable connections is a tonic in an increasingly isolating, and volatile world. Whether this is your first time in therapy or another chapter on your quest for fulfillment in relationship with yourself and others, I am dedicated to meeting you where you are. Together we will bear witness to joys and challenges of being a human in our modern society, and celebrate the richness of humanity. As a trained couples and family therapist, I utilize a variety of theories integrating my past experience in both the performing arts and as a yoga instructor to provide a creative, holistic experience.
(917) 708-8559 View (917) 708-8559
Photo of Adrian Rodriguez-Targa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10001, NY
Adrian Rodriguez-Targa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I have also experienced challenges in finding my place.
In the eyes of others, you present as confident, successful & outgoing, but inside, you struggle with anxiety and feelings of inadequacy. You often feel like your friends and peers seem to have it figured out, but you don't. Maintaining relationships, both romantic and platonic has been a challenge. Understanding your own needs and wants can feel trivial. You're feeling isolated, despite being surrounded. You want to feel more secure and balanced.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I have also experienced challenges in finding my place.
In the eyes of others, you present as confident, successful & outgoing, but inside, you struggle with anxiety and feelings of inadequacy. You often feel like your friends and peers seem to have it figured out, but you don't. Maintaining relationships, both romantic and platonic has been a challenge. Understanding your own needs and wants can feel trivial. You're feeling isolated, despite being surrounded. You want to feel more secure and balanced.
(203) 293-8859 View (203) 293-8859
Photo of John Beninato, Counselor in 10001, NY
John Beninato
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I also have expertise working with young professionals, men, and LGBTQ+ clients.
Challenges in life can be overwhelming if not downright defeating without support. As your therapist, I begin with building our relationship while we identify and address the reasons you are seeking treatment. My ultimate goals are to help you determine what is keeping you from living your ideal life and create a safe space where we can explore your life experiences. I strive to instill a spirit of hope and provide encouragement that change can be possible and that you are the ultimate agent of that change. Together, we will help you lay the groundwork to make positive changes that will serve to enrich your life.
I also have expertise working with young professionals, men, and LGBTQ+ clients.
Challenges in life can be overwhelming if not downright defeating without support. As your therapist, I begin with building our relationship while we identify and address the reasons you are seeking treatment. My ultimate goals are to help you determine what is keeping you from living your ideal life and create a safe space where we can explore your life experiences. I strive to instill a spirit of hope and provide encouragement that change can be possible and that you are the ultimate agent of that change. Together, we will help you lay the groundwork to make positive changes that will serve to enrich your life.
(332) 334-2094 View (332) 334-2094
Photo of Kelda Nelson, Art Therapist in 10001, NY
Kelda Nelson
Art Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Are you an artist in spirit? Do you identify as a creative, if not within practice within your dreams? If this resonates you are most likely someone who emotes beyond words and or speaks in metaphors. My therapeutic approach is creatively oriented within both verbal and the expressive arts. My practice assists in you accepting your true self, within live analytic, psychodynamic growth. I am relational, attentive, engaging and goal oriented. I want you to experience desired changes and growth overtime that we work towards collaboratively for ideally a year or more. I specialize within the LGBTQ community although treat all folk.
Are you an artist in spirit? Do you identify as a creative, if not within practice within your dreams? If this resonates you are most likely someone who emotes beyond words and or speaks in metaphors. My therapeutic approach is creatively oriented within both verbal and the expressive arts. My practice assists in you accepting your true self, within live analytic, psychodynamic growth. I am relational, attentive, engaging and goal oriented. I want you to experience desired changes and growth overtime that we work towards collaboratively for ideally a year or more. I specialize within the LGBTQ community although treat all folk.
(646) 849-7014 View (646) 849-7014
Photo of Josh Watson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10001, NY
Josh Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I am a licensed LGBTQ+ affirming psychotherapist who works with people in NYC and throughout NY state.
Do you struggle to understand or name your feelings, needs, and desires? Maybe you’re challenged in your relationships to communicate freely and find yourself feeling disconnected, unheard or unsafe. Perhaps anxiety or past trauma is burdening you from living a full life. Or pressure to conform to societal norms and traditional molds may be affecting your emotional wellbeing. Regardless of what you’ve experienced in the past, you are worthy of healthy relationships that provide meaningful connection and unconditional love.
I am a licensed LGBTQ+ affirming psychotherapist who works with people in NYC and throughout NY state.
Do you struggle to understand or name your feelings, needs, and desires? Maybe you’re challenged in your relationships to communicate freely and find yourself feeling disconnected, unheard or unsafe. Perhaps anxiety or past trauma is burdening you from living a full life. Or pressure to conform to societal norms and traditional molds may be affecting your emotional wellbeing. Regardless of what you’ve experienced in the past, you are worthy of healthy relationships that provide meaningful connection and unconditional love.
(929) 356-2594 View (929) 356-2594
Photo of Zach Udko, Counselor in 10001, NY
Zach Udko
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with a broad range of clients, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Setting aside time each week to reflect on your challenges and goals with a trained clinician can be a powerful component of your self-care routine. My warm, open-minded, direct, and non-judgmental style cultivates a process that is both active and challenging. I'm not just here to listen; I'm here to help you get unstuck. Together we'll explore and confront the blocks in your daily life, as well as past events that are still holding you back. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, OCD, perfectionism, relationship issues, mood disorders, phobias, and trauma.
I enjoy working with a broad range of clients, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Setting aside time each week to reflect on your challenges and goals with a trained clinician can be a powerful component of your self-care routine. My warm, open-minded, direct, and non-judgmental style cultivates a process that is both active and challenging. I'm not just here to listen; I'm here to help you get unstuck. Together we'll explore and confront the blocks in your daily life, as well as past events that are still holding you back. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, OCD, perfectionism, relationship issues, mood disorders, phobias, and trauma.
(631) 619-2321 View (631) 619-2321
Photo of Justin Yong, Counselor in 10001, NY
Justin Yong
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
My approach to treatment is integrative with an orientation to LGBTQ+ Affirmative and Multicultural Counseling.
Do you find yourself feeling like a cog in a machine, stuck in a joyless career? Do you feel like you’re moving through life on autopilot, unable to take meaningful action? Are you looking to make personal and professional changes? My goal is to empower you to be more present for the moments and people that truly matter to you. Together we’ll innovate and reimagine new ways of thinking so that you are more present and aligned with what means most to you. Let's take you off autopilot and put you back in the driver's seat.
My approach to treatment is integrative with an orientation to LGBTQ+ Affirmative and Multicultural Counseling.
Do you find yourself feeling like a cog in a machine, stuck in a joyless career? Do you feel like you’re moving through life on autopilot, unable to take meaningful action? Are you looking to make personal and professional changes? My goal is to empower you to be more present for the moments and people that truly matter to you. Together we’ll innovate and reimagine new ways of thinking so that you are more present and aligned with what means most to you. Let's take you off autopilot and put you back in the driver's seat.
(646) 980-3952 View (646) 980-3952
Photo of Jason J Durant, Psychologist in 10001, NY
Jason J Durant
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
My clinical experience includes specialized training and scholarship in interpersonal and relational difficulties, harm-reduction & substance use, chronic pain management & health concerns, rehabilitation psychology, LGBT & identity-development dilemmas, trauma, aging & spiritual challenges, and integrative solutions to anxiety, depression and many other psychological concerns.
Congratulations on considering psychotherapy! At the heart of the process is change, growth and transformation. In a supportive and encouraging environment, you are free to move toward a more authentic way of being in the world. With the help of a sympathetic guide, the art of becoming more whole is possible. The benefits of engaging in psychotherapy include better emotional health & happiness, improved interpersonal relationships, improved stress management skills, reduced suffering from depression & anxiety, enhanced self confidence & achievement.
My clinical experience includes specialized training and scholarship in interpersonal and relational difficulties, harm-reduction & substance use, chronic pain management & health concerns, rehabilitation psychology, LGBT & identity-development dilemmas, trauma, aging & spiritual challenges, and integrative solutions to anxiety, depression and many other psychological concerns.
Congratulations on considering psychotherapy! At the heart of the process is change, growth and transformation. In a supportive and encouraging environment, you are free to move toward a more authentic way of being in the world. With the help of a sympathetic guide, the art of becoming more whole is possible. The benefits of engaging in psychotherapy include better emotional health & happiness, improved interpersonal relationships, improved stress management skills, reduced suffering from depression & anxiety, enhanced self confidence & achievement.
(917) 746-5927 View (917) 746-5927
Photo of Bernie A Crowl, Counselor in 10001, NY
Bernie A Crowl
Counselor, LMHC, CTP, CDBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
As an active member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand from a personal perspective the struggles that many people in this population face at home and in society.
Are you finding yourself constantly overwhelmed by anxiety? Are the symptoms of your lingering anxiety impacting the quality of your life? I know exactly what you are experiencing: the pounding chest, tightened muscles, clenched jaw, and on/off cold sweats. People often suffer from anxiety for many years without seeking treatment. I believe that holistic and evidence based practices can reduce anxiety and panic, and I look forward to teaching you tools to help take your life back. I also work with LGBTQ couples who are struggling with a variety of concerns like sexual/intimacy issues, communication, codependency, and infidelity.
As an active member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand from a personal perspective the struggles that many people in this population face at home and in society.
Are you finding yourself constantly overwhelmed by anxiety? Are the symptoms of your lingering anxiety impacting the quality of your life? I know exactly what you are experiencing: the pounding chest, tightened muscles, clenched jaw, and on/off cold sweats. People often suffer from anxiety for many years without seeking treatment. I believe that holistic and evidence based practices can reduce anxiety and panic, and I look forward to teaching you tools to help take your life back. I also work with LGBTQ couples who are struggling with a variety of concerns like sexual/intimacy issues, communication, codependency, and infidelity.
(332) 239-1867 View (332) 239-1867
Photo of Stephen Kochenash in 10001, NY
Stephen Kochenash
LMHC-LP, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Do you struggle navigating life? Do you wish you could increase your understanding and skills to make life less challenging? The good news is therapy can help you gain control over your life and pursue your dreams. Life is beautiful, but there are many tools that we as humans need to reach our full potential. Low confidence, readiness to change, trouble communicating, and lack of social support are just some barriers that can prevent you from getting “unstuck.” As a member of the Queer community, I empathize with these experiences and I have done intensive work personally and professionally that has changed my life for the better.
Do you struggle navigating life? Do you wish you could increase your understanding and skills to make life less challenging? The good news is therapy can help you gain control over your life and pursue your dreams. Life is beautiful, but there are many tools that we as humans need to reach our full potential. Low confidence, readiness to change, trouble communicating, and lack of social support are just some barriers that can prevent you from getting “unstuck.” As a member of the Queer community, I empathize with these experiences and I have done intensive work personally and professionally that has changed my life for the better.
(646) 961-4615 x414 View (646) 961-4615 x414
Photo of Ilona Margiotta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10001, NY
Ilona Margiotta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I have extensive experience working with lesbian, queer-identified, transgender and gender expansive folks, individuals living with HIV/AIDS, and those exploring their relationship to sexuality, kink, and gender.
With each of my clients, I cultivate a compassionate, non-judgmental, and supportive environment. I believe that the therapeutic relationship provides a safe space for identity exploration, so that you can more fully embody your truth in your day-to-day life. While a sense of progress is integral to the therapeutic journey, we will create a personalized understanding of what growth looks like for you, rather than settling for more prescriptive goals. As a relational therapist, I help people foster deeper understanding and self-awareness, overcome unhelpful and defeating patterns, and build self-esteem.
I have extensive experience working with lesbian, queer-identified, transgender and gender expansive folks, individuals living with HIV/AIDS, and those exploring their relationship to sexuality, kink, and gender.
With each of my clients, I cultivate a compassionate, non-judgmental, and supportive environment. I believe that the therapeutic relationship provides a safe space for identity exploration, so that you can more fully embody your truth in your day-to-day life. While a sense of progress is integral to the therapeutic journey, we will create a personalized understanding of what growth looks like for you, rather than settling for more prescriptive goals. As a relational therapist, I help people foster deeper understanding and self-awareness, overcome unhelpful and defeating patterns, and build self-esteem.
(914) 819-5608 View (914) 819-5608
Photo of Alison A. Proft, Licensed Psychoanalyst in 10001, NY
Alison A. Proft
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LP, NCPsyA, MS
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Tired of scrolling through profiles looking for an LGBTQ therapist who understands you? Look no further! I help adults that identify as LGBTQ who are struggling with the challenges of coming out, relationships, transitioning, and phase-of-life issues. Using psychoanalysis and free association, we'll identify the root cause of the fears and behaviors that are disrupting your life and develop strategies to heal and nourish your authentic self. Through our work, you'll experience the joy of self-love and get busy living your best life.
Tired of scrolling through profiles looking for an LGBTQ therapist who understands you? Look no further! I help adults that identify as LGBTQ who are struggling with the challenges of coming out, relationships, transitioning, and phase-of-life issues. Using psychoanalysis and free association, we'll identify the root cause of the fears and behaviors that are disrupting your life and develop strategies to heal and nourish your authentic self. Through our work, you'll experience the joy of self-love and get busy living your best life.
(914) 228-7350 View (914) 228-7350
Photo of Jan C. Niemira, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10001, NY
Jan C. Niemira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I work with individuals and couples and specialize in the treatment of gay men's intimacy and relationship issues, identity concerns, adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse and LGBT issues.
When your inner world feels out of balance, it's time to talk. Sometimes sadness or worry sends up a red flag and lets you know when you need support. Other times you might feel lonely or disconnected and not certain how to make things right. These are great opportunities to get to know yourself better. My therapeutic approach emphasizes 'true self experience' and aims to peel back the layers of compromise that come to feel so heavy, ill-fitting, or inauthentic over time. Feeling more alive and a renewed sense of discovery are the benefits of this deeply personal process.
I work with individuals and couples and specialize in the treatment of gay men's intimacy and relationship issues, identity concerns, adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse and LGBT issues.
When your inner world feels out of balance, it's time to talk. Sometimes sadness or worry sends up a red flag and lets you know when you need support. Other times you might feel lonely or disconnected and not certain how to make things right. These are great opportunities to get to know yourself better. My therapeutic approach emphasizes 'true self experience' and aims to peel back the layers of compromise that come to feel so heavy, ill-fitting, or inauthentic over time. Feeling more alive and a renewed sense of discovery are the benefits of this deeply personal process.
(646) 583-3935 View (646) 583-3935
Photo of Wyatt Roper, Pre-Licensed Professional in 10001, NY
Wyatt Roper
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
My ideal client would be someone who wants to grow, learn, and deepen their relationship with themselves and others. I enjoy working with adults, LGBTQIA+ communities, and couples. I am here to create a safe healing space for all humans and experiences.
My ideal client would be someone who wants to grow, learn, and deepen their relationship with themselves and others. I enjoy working with adults, LGBTQIA+ communities, and couples. I am here to create a safe healing space for all humans and experiences.
(929) 209-6727 View (929) 209-6727
Photo of Celeste Pietrusza, Psychologist in 10001, NY
Celeste Pietrusza
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I welcome folx from the LGBTQIA+ as well as BDSM/kink and ENM communities in my practice.
Life presents many challenges and struggles and sometimes, it may feel, too little time to voice complex emotions. Yet, an exploration of the nuances of one’s history, relationships, dreams, and desires can help alleviate suffering and increase flexibility in the present moment. Therapy, I believe, can provide this space to become, to play, feel, speak. My integrative approach holds space for family of origin, intergenerational, intersectional and broader social-cultural dynamics.
I welcome folx from the LGBTQIA+ as well as BDSM/kink and ENM communities in my practice.
Life presents many challenges and struggles and sometimes, it may feel, too little time to voice complex emotions. Yet, an exploration of the nuances of one’s history, relationships, dreams, and desires can help alleviate suffering and increase flexibility in the present moment. Therapy, I believe, can provide this space to become, to play, feel, speak. My integrative approach holds space for family of origin, intergenerational, intersectional and broader social-cultural dynamics.
(646) 969-3475 View (646) 969-3475
Photo of Stacy Baum in 10001, NY
Stacy Baum
LMHC-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
As a queer and non-binary identifying person, I have both lived experience with LGBTQIA+ issues, and experience with LGBTQIA+ clients. I bring extensive experience in Crisis Intervention, Addiction, Co-occurring Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, and Suicidal Ideation. I specialize in working with people who have trauma histories, specifically Domestic and Sexual Violence.
As a queer and non-binary identifying person, I have both lived experience with LGBTQIA+ issues, and experience with LGBTQIA+ clients. I bring extensive experience in Crisis Intervention, Addiction, Co-occurring Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, and Suicidal Ideation. I specialize in working with people who have trauma histories, specifically Domestic and Sexual Violence.
(646) 846-9216 View (646) 846-9216
Photo of Paulina Agrawal, Pre-Licensed Professional in 10001, NY
Paulina Agrawal
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Each of us is deserving of joy and peace, and I am here to help you claim yours. In therapy, we will collaboratively explore the barriers that stand between you and your most authentic self so that you may live fully and enjoy who you truly are. I treat individuals and couples with a variety of issues related to body trust/kindness, trauma, LGBTQIA+-specific issues, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, and more. My approach is collaborative and kind in nature with mindfulness, DBT, and Internal Family Systems incorporated as needed. Body respect, trust, and the principles of Health at Every Size are foundational to my approach.
Each of us is deserving of joy and peace, and I am here to help you claim yours. In therapy, we will collaboratively explore the barriers that stand between you and your most authentic self so that you may live fully and enjoy who you truly are. I treat individuals and couples with a variety of issues related to body trust/kindness, trauma, LGBTQIA+-specific issues, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, and more. My approach is collaborative and kind in nature with mindfulness, DBT, and Internal Family Systems incorporated as needed. Body respect, trust, and the principles of Health at Every Size are foundational to my approach.
(718) 395-5958 View (718) 395-5958
Photo of Renee H Reopell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10001, NY
Renee H Reopell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm so glad you're here. Finding a supportive, therapeutic home can be a difficult challenge for us as queer, transgender, and non-binary people. Therefore, I hold some values to create a safer space: you are the expert in your own lived experience; you already posses the strengths that will help you with the challenges you're facing; you deserve a place without judgement; and you are entitled to be your authentic self. I come from a cross-cultural, social justice perspective, and believe collaboration with you is necessary for your best self. I serve individuals and families.
I'm so glad you're here. Finding a supportive, therapeutic home can be a difficult challenge for us as queer, transgender, and non-binary people. Therefore, I hold some values to create a safer space: you are the expert in your own lived experience; you already posses the strengths that will help you with the challenges you're facing; you deserve a place without judgement; and you are entitled to be your authentic self. I come from a cross-cultural, social justice perspective, and believe collaboration with you is necessary for your best self. I serve individuals and families.
(347) 662-2516 View (347) 662-2516
Photo of Robert Szczepanski, Marriage & Family Therapist in 10001, NY
Robert Szczepanski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS-MFT, MS-Ed
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I am deeply committed to supporting the LGBTQ community and working with non-binary gender individuals.
Do you have a feeling that “something” is missing from your life and you can’t quite figure out what it is? Are you moving through each day with ruminating thoughts, fears, and feeling isolated even though you may be surrounded by people? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, there is an emotional block holding you back. The main blocks to living a full life are: fear, anger, grief, and shame. These blocks are unburdened wounds that need to be revealed and shared in order to live more fully. Together, we can chart the roadmap to unburden these wounds and get you on the path that you’ve been waiting for.
I am deeply committed to supporting the LGBTQ community and working with non-binary gender individuals.
Do you have a feeling that “something” is missing from your life and you can’t quite figure out what it is? Are you moving through each day with ruminating thoughts, fears, and feeling isolated even though you may be surrounded by people? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, there is an emotional block holding you back. The main blocks to living a full life are: fear, anger, grief, and shame. These blocks are unburdened wounds that need to be revealed and shared in order to live more fully. Together, we can chart the roadmap to unburden these wounds and get you on the path that you’ve been waiting for.
(860) 266-1034 View (860) 266-1034
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.