LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 10010

Photo of Sabrina Sarro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Sabrina Sarro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, LCSW, C-DBT, CCTP, SIFI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
Hi beautiful people! Need support from feeling unseen or navigating a world in which your identities are not affirmed? I'm here to support you in further harnessing your intuitive voice, as well as providing a space to explore your past, current, and potential future. As a Black/Queer/Neurodivergent provider, I am dedicated to helping you synthesize memories and experiences of your life, and how these moments might be informing your identities today. I am deeply invested in you and think of our relationship as a collaborative one in which we both discover and explore what affirms you and makes you feel seen, heard, and supported.
Hi beautiful people! Need support from feeling unseen or navigating a world in which your identities are not affirmed? I'm here to support you in further harnessing your intuitive voice, as well as providing a space to explore your past, current, and potential future. As a Black/Queer/Neurodivergent provider, I am dedicated to helping you synthesize memories and experiences of your life, and how these moments might be informing your identities today. I am deeply invested in you and think of our relationship as a collaborative one in which we both discover and explore what affirms you and makes you feel seen, heard, and supported.
(646) 956-1277 View (646) 956-1277
Photo of Frank Rupp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Frank Rupp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I practice from a judgment-free, sex-positive, queer-aligned perspective that encourages clients to view themselves holistically.
Many individuals go through periods of their life where they are searching for a deeper, more meaningful understanding of who they are as a person. I enjoy working with clients who are navigating this phase of life as it can be so rewarding to see the transformational changes that my clients make. I invite you to explore the meaning and correlation between topics like anxiety, communication, family, and work to your relationship with substance use, grief, sex, identity, trauma, and/or new medical diagnoses.
I practice from a judgment-free, sex-positive, queer-aligned perspective that encourages clients to view themselves holistically.
Many individuals go through periods of their life where they are searching for a deeper, more meaningful understanding of who they are as a person. I enjoy working with clients who are navigating this phase of life as it can be so rewarding to see the transformational changes that my clients make. I invite you to explore the meaning and correlation between topics like anxiety, communication, family, and work to your relationship with substance use, grief, sex, identity, trauma, and/or new medical diagnoses.
(332) 529-7685 View (332) 529-7685
Photo of Andrew Titus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Andrew Titus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
My ideal clients are navigating issues of identity, especially within the LGBTQIA+ community. I also work with folks who might be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, addressing religious trauma, and/or confused about how to move forward in their lives. Anxiety, depression, identity issues, self esteem, and relationship patterns can create distress and cut us off from the lives we want to live. As a therapist, I’ll partner with you to move past these thoughts, feelings, reactions, and patterns so you can build a life and identity that fulfills you.
My ideal clients are navigating issues of identity, especially within the LGBTQIA+ community. I also work with folks who might be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, addressing religious trauma, and/or confused about how to move forward in their lives. Anxiety, depression, identity issues, self esteem, and relationship patterns can create distress and cut us off from the lives we want to live. As a therapist, I’ll partner with you to move past these thoughts, feelings, reactions, and patterns so you can build a life and identity that fulfills you.
(332) 262-6982 View (332) 262-6982
Photo of Michael Scheman, Licensed Psychoanalyst in 10010, NY
Michael Scheman
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MFA, LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
I tend to connect with creative people, members of the LGBTQ community and those who value self-expression.
Psychotherapy is ultimately about achieving a deeper understanding of the self, articulating the issues one struggles with and creating a pathway towards change. It can be a challenge to shape our futures and to find the right therapist with whom you can establish a meaningful connection. Whether you are seeking therapy as an individual or as a couple, navigating the kinds of questions keeping you up at night means finding someone you can trust. Someone with whom you can co-create a judgement-free, compassionate, empathetic landscape. I’m interested in finding out if we can build that kind of dynamic together.
I tend to connect with creative people, members of the LGBTQ community and those who value self-expression.
Psychotherapy is ultimately about achieving a deeper understanding of the self, articulating the issues one struggles with and creating a pathway towards change. It can be a challenge to shape our futures and to find the right therapist with whom you can establish a meaningful connection. Whether you are seeking therapy as an individual or as a couple, navigating the kinds of questions keeping you up at night means finding someone you can trust. Someone with whom you can co-create a judgement-free, compassionate, empathetic landscape. I’m interested in finding out if we can build that kind of dynamic together.
(332) 777-7304 View (332) 777-7304
Photo of Todd Anderson, Licensed Psychoanalyst in 10010, NY
Todd Anderson
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD, PsyD, LP, NCPsyA, CCTP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I have expertise in LGBTQIA+ and sex/body/kink/poly/alt relationship issues.
Beginning therapy can be scary and is a bold step toward making proactive changes in your life. I provide a warm and relaxed atmosphere to explore your emotional life in a safe and supportive space. Aware of the importance of the body, I experience you as a whole person: your words, life themes, affect, posture, and your presence. By experiencing you in your wholeness, I can contextualize what can feel confusing or fragmentary. I can share what I see and understand, helping you raise your self-awareness. This process can harmonize your thoughts and emotions. Insight alone often is not sufficient for healing.
I have expertise in LGBTQIA+ and sex/body/kink/poly/alt relationship issues.
Beginning therapy can be scary and is a bold step toward making proactive changes in your life. I provide a warm and relaxed atmosphere to explore your emotional life in a safe and supportive space. Aware of the importance of the body, I experience you as a whole person: your words, life themes, affect, posture, and your presence. By experiencing you in your wholeness, I can contextualize what can feel confusing or fragmentary. I can share what I see and understand, helping you raise your self-awareness. This process can harmonize your thoughts and emotions. Insight alone often is not sufficient for healing.
(914) 252-3138 View (914) 252-3138
Photo of MCM Collaborative Psychotherapy LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
MCM Collaborative Psychotherapy LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
MCM Collaborative is a group psychotherapy practice built for connection, healing and transformation. We are passionate and practiced in partnering with people of color, especially LGBTQ+ folks. Because we know our struggles are interconnected, we also invite teens, adults, partners/couples and families of all identities. Folks often come to us because they find comfort starting a therapeutic process with someone with a shared identity. We work best with clients who often feel misunderstood by others and, at times, by themselves. Struggling within your relationships - friendships, romantic, familial? We got you there, too.
MCM Collaborative is a group psychotherapy practice built for connection, healing and transformation. We are passionate and practiced in partnering with people of color, especially LGBTQ+ folks. Because we know our struggles are interconnected, we also invite teens, adults, partners/couples and families of all identities. Folks often come to us because they find comfort starting a therapeutic process with someone with a shared identity. We work best with clients who often feel misunderstood by others and, at times, by themselves. Struggling within your relationships - friendships, romantic, familial? We got you there, too.
(332) 330-3943 View (332) 330-3943
Photo of Alex Sullivan, Licensed Master Social Worker in 10010, NY
Alex Sullivan
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
My practice is disability-affirming, anti-racist, sex-positive, and LGBTQIA+ informed.
Friction between our internal reality and the external world is often a significant source of stress in our lives. Who we are is often the source of our greatest strengths, but it can also leave us feeling unseen or invalidated by the world around us. These experiences can lead to feeling unseen, invalidated, or threatened by our families, communities, or society as a whole. Depression, anxiety, and other feelings are the natural result. Despite this, our sense of self and our identities may guide us to developing our lives so they reflect the way we want to live.
My practice is disability-affirming, anti-racist, sex-positive, and LGBTQIA+ informed.
Friction between our internal reality and the external world is often a significant source of stress in our lives. Who we are is often the source of our greatest strengths, but it can also leave us feeling unseen or invalidated by the world around us. These experiences can lead to feeling unseen, invalidated, or threatened by our families, communities, or society as a whole. Depression, anxiety, and other feelings are the natural result. Despite this, our sense of self and our identities may guide us to developing our lives so they reflect the way we want to live.
(718) 841-0461 View (718) 841-0461
Photo of Julie Lichtstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Julie Lichtstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I have advanced training in psychotherapy/psychoanalysis, and in substance abuse/addictions, with particular experience with the LGBTQIA+ communities, young adults, teens, and with parents around the challenges of raising healthy, self-actualizing children.
Psychotherapy . . . a dynamic, interactive journey. I offer a safe, caring, professional environment in which we co-create a relationship essential for your healing and growth to occur naturally. With you, I undertake the opportunity to cultivate a supportive and trusting relationship. In my 30+ years as a therapist, I have come to know that it is the genuine connection between us that paves the way to successful, fulfilling therapy. I will help you to learn more about yourself, to understand why you do what you do and to uncover, strengthen and integrate the many aspects that make you authentically you.
I have advanced training in psychotherapy/psychoanalysis, and in substance abuse/addictions, with particular experience with the LGBTQIA+ communities, young adults, teens, and with parents around the challenges of raising healthy, self-actualizing children.
Psychotherapy . . . a dynamic, interactive journey. I offer a safe, caring, professional environment in which we co-create a relationship essential for your healing and growth to occur naturally. With you, I undertake the opportunity to cultivate a supportive and trusting relationship. In my 30+ years as a therapist, I have come to know that it is the genuine connection between us that paves the way to successful, fulfilling therapy. I will help you to learn more about yourself, to understand why you do what you do and to uncover, strengthen and integrate the many aspects that make you authentically you.
(646) 490-0575 View (646) 490-0575
Photo of Marcelo Abramovich Gay Men's Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Marcelo Abramovich Gay Men's Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
When facing life's difficult challenges, it is good to know that there are places that you can turn to for help and guidance. However, finding a gay therapist can be anxiety producing because when people decide they would benefit from seeing a therapist, they are often experiencing significant upset in their lives. This is usually not the ideal moment to be dealing with the stress involved in finding someone with whom it feels safe and right to be vulnerable.
When facing life's difficult challenges, it is good to know that there are places that you can turn to for help and guidance. However, finding a gay therapist can be anxiety producing because when people decide they would benefit from seeing a therapist, they are often experiencing significant upset in their lives. This is usually not the ideal moment to be dealing with the stress involved in finding someone with whom it feels safe and right to be vulnerable.
(646) 506-4362 View (646) 506-4362
Photo of Sam Fogarty in 10010, NY
Sam Fogarty
MHC-LP, EdM, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
I believe that every human holds the innate capacity to heal, especially queer individuals whose lives are rooted in resilience. Through therapy, I highlight the potential of empowerment and strength in overcoming trauma and everyday challenges alike. I bring my research experience in body image and eating disorders among queer populations to frame my clinical work. My style can be described as active, warm, encouraging, and fun. While I incorporate elements of cognitive-behavioral, narrative, psychodynamic, and client-centered modalities, meeting with me will feel like a conversation with a warm, supportive friend.
I believe that every human holds the innate capacity to heal, especially queer individuals whose lives are rooted in resilience. Through therapy, I highlight the potential of empowerment and strength in overcoming trauma and everyday challenges alike. I bring my research experience in body image and eating disorders among queer populations to frame my clinical work. My style can be described as active, warm, encouraging, and fun. While I incorporate elements of cognitive-behavioral, narrative, psychodynamic, and client-centered modalities, meeting with me will feel like a conversation with a warm, supportive friend.
(929) 548-1021 View (929) 548-1021
Photo of Ren Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Ren Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I am a queer, trans/nonbinary (they/he/佢 pronouns), neurodivergent, polyamorous, 2nd generation Chinese American (born to immigrant parents).
I believe in community care, liberation, growth, joy, resilience, healing, and justice. We live within various systems and institutions that impact how we navigate our lives in relation to each other. I am here to invite and support you in exploring connections to yourself, your communities, and the world around you. I am passionate about working with intersectional identities of race, gender, sexuality, and neurodivergence and focus around issues of relationships, trauma, transitions, and alternative lifestyles (such as kink/BDSM, polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, etc.).
I am a queer, trans/nonbinary (they/he/佢 pronouns), neurodivergent, polyamorous, 2nd generation Chinese American (born to immigrant parents).
I believe in community care, liberation, growth, joy, resilience, healing, and justice. We live within various systems and institutions that impact how we navigate our lives in relation to each other. I am here to invite and support you in exploring connections to yourself, your communities, and the world around you. I am passionate about working with intersectional identities of race, gender, sexuality, and neurodivergence and focus around issues of relationships, trauma, transitions, and alternative lifestyles (such as kink/BDSM, polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, etc.).
(347) 657-5864 View (347) 657-5864
Photo of Tyler Mafi, Counselor in 10010, NY
Tyler Mafi
Counselor, LMHC, MSEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! My name is Tyler, and I am an NYC-based queer, trans, and multicultural psychotherapist. I am passionate about supporting young adults navigating the transition out of college, dating in the city, and finding passion in their career. This time of life can be filled with anxiety, depression, and feelings of uncertainty. Through our work together, you can expect to uncover the beliefs and patterns currently holding you back, and strengthen your relationship with yourself. I also specialize in working with parents navigating the challenges and joys of parenting during the teen years.
Welcome! My name is Tyler, and I am an NYC-based queer, trans, and multicultural psychotherapist. I am passionate about supporting young adults navigating the transition out of college, dating in the city, and finding passion in their career. This time of life can be filled with anxiety, depression, and feelings of uncertainty. Through our work together, you can expect to uncover the beliefs and patterns currently holding you back, and strengthen your relationship with yourself. I also specialize in working with parents navigating the challenges and joys of parenting during the teen years.
(929) 205-7607 View (929) 205-7607
Photo of Patrick Abrams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Patrick Abrams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
Based in psychodynamic theory and unconditional positive regard for the client I lead a trauma-informed and LGBTQ-affirming healing space.
You may be wondering what your last relationship has taught you. You may feel like your current job or school has you stuck. Maybe you're in the process of coming out, in the myriad of ways that means, and you're looking for help to process it. Maybe I can help. You are the *expert in your own life* and we will be co-creating this healing space, the therapeutic alliance.
Based in psychodynamic theory and unconditional positive regard for the client I lead a trauma-informed and LGBTQ-affirming healing space.
You may be wondering what your last relationship has taught you. You may feel like your current job or school has you stuck. Maybe you're in the process of coming out, in the myriad of ways that means, and you're looking for help to process it. Maybe I can help. You are the *expert in your own life* and we will be co-creating this healing space, the therapeutic alliance.
(347) 297-5465 View (347) 297-5465
Photo of Amos Wolff, Marriage & Family Therapist in 10010, NY
Amos Wolff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
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 Sage Kramer-Urner, Licensed Master Social Worker in 10010, NY
Sage Kramer-Urner
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
Navigating this world as a marginalized individual is hard. As a neurodivergent, queer individual, I get it. I feel an intense desire to help those who feel marginalized or shut out by society begin to feel acknowledged and loved while they begin to understand how they can take up space in this world without being rejected. You are the expert on your own life, I am simply here to guide you along your journey. I am deeply passionate about how humans think, work, and view the world, and want to help you explore your curiosities and come to a better understanding of yourself.
Navigating this world as a marginalized individual is hard. As a neurodivergent, queer individual, I get it. I feel an intense desire to help those who feel marginalized or shut out by society begin to feel acknowledged and loved while they begin to understand how they can take up space in this world without being rejected. You are the expert on your own life, I am simply here to guide you along your journey. I am deeply passionate about how humans think, work, and view the world, and want to help you explore your curiosities and come to a better understanding of yourself.
(332) 239-1520 View (332) 239-1520
Photo of Madeline Ziegler, Pre-Licensed Professional in 10010, NY
Madeline Ziegler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
Many of my clients are adolescents and adults in the LGBTQ+ community looking to make positive changes in their lives.
What’s getting in the way of you being yourself? Let’s work together to bust past your blocks so you can share your full self with the world. I create an open-minded, sex positive, and compassionate space where clients are free to both find and be their true selves. Through my integrated, client-centered approach, we’ll work together to discover who you are, work through different pieces of your identity, and work through anything holding you back from being the fullest, most authentic version of yourself.
Many of my clients are adolescents and adults in the LGBTQ+ community looking to make positive changes in their lives.
What’s getting in the way of you being yourself? Let’s work together to bust past your blocks so you can share your full self with the world. I create an open-minded, sex positive, and compassionate space where clients are free to both find and be their true selves. Through my integrated, client-centered approach, we’ll work together to discover who you are, work through different pieces of your identity, and work through anything holding you back from being the fullest, most authentic version of yourself.
(332) 334-9252 View (332) 334-9252
Photo of Aram Jibilian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Aram Jibilian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQIA folks.
My first goal in working with individuals and couples is to provide a non-judgmental, accepting and affirming space. Through our unique therapeutic alliance, you will develop awareness around the thoughts, feelings and behaviors that have perhaps made life feel unmanageable. We will develop strategies based on various modalities which have proven to be successful in bringing positive change. Together we will create a picture of what a meaningful life looks like for you and we will work together to manifest it into reality.
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQIA folks.
My first goal in working with individuals and couples is to provide a non-judgmental, accepting and affirming space. Through our unique therapeutic alliance, you will develop awareness around the thoughts, feelings and behaviors that have perhaps made life feel unmanageable. We will develop strategies based on various modalities which have proven to be successful in bringing positive change. Together we will create a picture of what a meaningful life looks like for you and we will work together to manifest it into reality.
(917) 909-6315 View (917) 909-6315
Photo of Yaron M Peer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Yaron M Peer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
For over a decade I've worked with the LGBTQ+ community, immigrants, adults and young adults dealing with depression, anxiety, HIV, trauma, relationship issues, and grief.
"Why should I go to therapy?" I remember asking myself that same question many years ago. Deciding to go to therapy isn’t easy. It usually means that life has been challenging and that you aren't coping well. Sometimes the cause is obvious—you’ve lost someone; you’re anxious or depressed; you’re dealing with change. At other times, things are less clear. You sense that something is off, but can’t exactly point to what it is. That’s where therapy can make a significant difference. Your time in therapy is likely the only time you'll have complete freedom to say what’s running through your head—good or bad—without being judged.
For over a decade I've worked with the LGBTQ+ community, immigrants, adults and young adults dealing with depression, anxiety, HIV, trauma, relationship issues, and grief.
"Why should I go to therapy?" I remember asking myself that same question many years ago. Deciding to go to therapy isn’t easy. It usually means that life has been challenging and that you aren't coping well. Sometimes the cause is obvious—you’ve lost someone; you’re anxious or depressed; you’re dealing with change. At other times, things are less clear. You sense that something is off, but can’t exactly point to what it is. That’s where therapy can make a significant difference. Your time in therapy is likely the only time you'll have complete freedom to say what’s running through your head—good or bad—without being judged.
(917) 519-9890 View (917) 519-9890
Photo of Randerson Cares: Therapy & Corporate Wellnes Consu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Randerson Cares: Therapy & Corporate Wellnes Consu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, JD, LCSW-R, ASWCM-G, CGCM
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
Her practice is grounded in an anti-racist framework, and she provides LGBTQA+ affirmative practice to create a safe and welcoming environment for all.
Meet the amazing Dr. Randi, an experienced therapist and wellness coach with over 15 years of expertise in helping individuals balance their work, school, and personal lives. Her passion is empowering her clients with the tools, strategies, and support they need to overcome their obstacles both now and in the long term. Dr. Randi firmly believes in each client's power to heal from the inside out. She is dedicated to helping her clients discover their inner light, professional voice, and a sense of hope, regardless of their background.
Her practice is grounded in an anti-racist framework, and she provides LGBTQA+ affirmative practice to create a safe and welcoming environment for all.
Meet the amazing Dr. Randi, an experienced therapist and wellness coach with over 15 years of expertise in helping individuals balance their work, school, and personal lives. Her passion is empowering her clients with the tools, strategies, and support they need to overcome their obstacles both now and in the long term. Dr. Randi firmly believes in each client's power to heal from the inside out. She is dedicated to helping her clients discover their inner light, professional voice, and a sense of hope, regardless of their background.
(646) 699-3924 View (646) 699-3924
Photo of Joseph Barbera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Joseph Barbera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I have found that my top skill sets lie in working with children, teens, and adults within individual, group, and couples therapeutic settings. I help individuals who are struggling with anxiety, stress, LGBTQIA+ navigation, life transitions, and other obstacles in life we all face.
I have found that my top skill sets lie in working with children, teens, and adults within individual, group, and couples therapeutic settings. I help individuals who are struggling with anxiety, stress, LGBTQIA+ navigation, life transitions, and other obstacles in life we all face.
(332) 242-2426 View (332) 242-2426
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.