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 Karen Nercessian, Mental Health Counselor in 10010, NY
Karen Nercessian
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA, MPA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
I firmly believe that each individual is capable of improving their life, when they are ready to do so, and with the help of a well-matched therapist. I will work with you to gain a better understanding of who you truly are and what you want, while exploring ways to help you find purpose, peace and acceptance. I use integrative therapeutic approaches, and attachment theory and shadow work frame my perspective. I believe our true self emerges when we shed the social persona and integrate our identity with the unconscious parts of ourselves, thus rediscovering who we truly are.
I firmly believe that each individual is capable of improving their life, when they are ready to do so, and with the help of a well-matched therapist. I will work with you to gain a better understanding of who you truly are and what you want, while exploring ways to help you find purpose, peace and acceptance. I use integrative therapeutic approaches, and attachment theory and shadow work frame my perspective. I believe our true self emerges when we shed the social persona and integrate our identity with the unconscious parts of ourselves, thus rediscovering who we truly are.
(646) 956-3752 View (646) 956-3752
Photo of Caroline Kasnakian, Psychologist in 10010, NY
Caroline Kasnakian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
If you are seeking therapy, you are taking an important step toward creating a vibrant personal and professional life. Our work will help you improve the quality of your relationships, clarify your desire, and create the circumstances to best cultivate your interests, creativity, and self-expression. We will work on freeing you from frustrating patterns that keep interfering with your ability to achieve your personal goals, such as managing your time and money, supporting your health and body-image, and cultivating a loving relationship with family, friends, and a partner.
If you are seeking therapy, you are taking an important step toward creating a vibrant personal and professional life. Our work will help you improve the quality of your relationships, clarify your desire, and create the circumstances to best cultivate your interests, creativity, and self-expression. We will work on freeing you from frustrating patterns that keep interfering with your ability to achieve your personal goals, such as managing your time and money, supporting your health and body-image, and cultivating a loving relationship with family, friends, and a partner.
(646) 863-6975 View (646) 863-6975

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.