LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 17101

Photo of Kevin P. Filippelli - LGBTQ+, Polyamory/CNM, BDSM/Kink Video Coaching, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LGBTQ+, Polyamory/CNM, BDSM/Kink Video Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults, ages 18 and older, and my specialties include, but are not limited to: Anxiety, BDMS/Kink, Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM) & Polyamory, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Emotional Wellness, Life Transitions & Changes, Problem Solving & Decision Making, Self-Esteem & Self-Confidence, Stress & Relaxation, and Work / Life Balance.
Weclome! My name is Kevin. Whether you’re having difficulty making changes in life, dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, or wanting to improve your self-confidence, I would be honored to assist you on your journey. My style is warm, collaborative, and respectful. I believe that you are in charge of your journey and my role is to walk with you and offer ideas and concepts to help you achieve the goals you have chosen. I will not tell you how to think, feel, or behave. Instead, you and I will explore options to help you determine the right path for you. I specialize in the LGBTQ+, CNM.Polyamory, and BDSM/Kink communities.
I work with adults, ages 18 and older, and my specialties include, but are not limited to: Anxiety, BDMS/Kink, Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM) & Polyamory, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Emotional Wellness, Life Transitions & Changes, Problem Solving & Decision Making, Self-Esteem & Self-Confidence, Stress & Relaxation, and Work / Life Balance.
Weclome! My name is Kevin. Whether you’re having difficulty making changes in life, dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, or wanting to improve your self-confidence, I would be honored to assist you on your journey. My style is warm, collaborative, and respectful. I believe that you are in charge of your journey and my role is to walk with you and offer ideas and concepts to help you achieve the goals you have chosen. I will not tell you how to think, feel, or behave. Instead, you and I will explore options to help you determine the right path for you. I specialize in the LGBTQ+, CNM.Polyamory, and BDSM/Kink communities.
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Photo of Jay Hess, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jay Hess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101
As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I have first-hand experience with those difficulties.
Are you lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, asexual, non-binary, etc. and seeking an affirming therapist? Are you having difficulty navigating relationships with friends and/or family due to your identity? Struggling with depression and/or anxiety because of today’s political climate? Struggling with the coming out process? Are you in need of a gender affirming letter to pursue gender affirming medical care? Seeking to explore your identity? Have a desire to set/create healthy boundaries with those around you?
As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I have first-hand experience with those difficulties.
Are you lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, asexual, non-binary, etc. and seeking an affirming therapist? Are you having difficulty navigating relationships with friends and/or family due to your identity? Struggling with depression and/or anxiety because of today’s political climate? Struggling with the coming out process? Are you in need of a gender affirming letter to pursue gender affirming medical care? Seeking to explore your identity? Have a desire to set/create healthy boundaries with those around you?
(717) 516-1761 View (717) 516-1761
Photo of Brie (Brianne) Scott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brie (Brianne) Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101  (Online Only)
I primarily utilize DBT, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) I work with those experiencing stress in life transitions, and relationships issues.
Current openings: Tuesdays 10, 12, 3 or 4 Wednesdays 11, 12, 2, 3, or 4 Thursdays 2 and Fridays 10 or 12. I am a Hispanic, white, able-bodied, queer, women, who practices therapy from a anti-oppression frame work. I practice from a harm reduction perspective and believe that you are the expert on your life, I’m just here to help you with your goals.
I primarily utilize DBT, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) I work with those experiencing stress in life transitions, and relationships issues.
Current openings: Tuesdays 10, 12, 3 or 4 Wednesdays 11, 12, 2, 3, or 4 Thursdays 2 and Fridays 10 or 12. I am a Hispanic, white, able-bodied, queer, women, who practices therapy from a anti-oppression frame work. I practice from a harm reduction perspective and believe that you are the expert on your life, I’m just here to help you with your goals.
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Photo of Iris Bowen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Iris Bowen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101  (Online Only)
Therapy can be such an overwhelming process to get started with, especially when you may also be struggling with ADHD, trauma symptoms, or anxiety that make everyday tasks feel monumental. For marginalized people in particular, feeling safe and truly seen by their therapist may be particularly challenging. As a Black, queer, neurodivergent therapist with 10 years experience, my approach is relational, strengths-based, person-centered, affirming, and anti-oppressive. Together we'll implement accessible, functional strategies to help you close the gap between the life you're living and the life you envision for yourself.
Therapy can be such an overwhelming process to get started with, especially when you may also be struggling with ADHD, trauma symptoms, or anxiety that make everyday tasks feel monumental. For marginalized people in particular, feeling safe and truly seen by their therapist may be particularly challenging. As a Black, queer, neurodivergent therapist with 10 years experience, my approach is relational, strengths-based, person-centered, affirming, and anti-oppressive. Together we'll implement accessible, functional strategies to help you close the gap between the life you're living and the life you envision for yourself.
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Photo of Samantha Gregg, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Gregg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Typical diagnoses/issues I work with are: depression, anxiety, ADHD, ASD, identity issues, social skills, mental health in the Deaf community, and those that identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
My name is Samantha Gregg. I am a LCSW in Pennsylvania and an LCSW-C in Maryland. I offer telehealth services to those residing in PA and in-person or telehealth services to those residing in MD. A client who would be a good fit for my services is likely a teen, tween, or adult who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, ASD, neurodivergence, identity issues, difficulty finding providers fluent in ASL, the effects of trauma, and/or part of the LGBTQIA+ community. In outpatient therapy, internal motivation is important; I also hold the understanding that motivation can take time to build.
Typical diagnoses/issues I work with are: depression, anxiety, ADHD, ASD, identity issues, social skills, mental health in the Deaf community, and those that identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
My name is Samantha Gregg. I am a LCSW in Pennsylvania and an LCSW-C in Maryland. I offer telehealth services to those residing in PA and in-person or telehealth services to those residing in MD. A client who would be a good fit for my services is likely a teen, tween, or adult who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, ASD, neurodivergence, identity issues, difficulty finding providers fluent in ASL, the effects of trauma, and/or part of the LGBTQIA+ community. In outpatient therapy, internal motivation is important; I also hold the understanding that motivation can take time to build.
(301) 965-1876 View (301) 965-1876
Photo of Olivia Bijou Snyder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olivia Bijou Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101  (Online Only)
I'm especially passionate about individual expression, identity explorations, and assisting LGBTQIA+ individuals explore their selfhood.
Finding a therapist that's a good fit for you is essential. My specific approach to counseling is empowerment-based, process oriented, and solutions-focused. I find that learning about one's own motivations, strengthening the empathy response, facing fears, and dismantling barriers are what lead to healing, fulfillment, personal growth and freedom. My style is to be curious and challenging, is generally discussion-based, and always leaves room for humor and freedom of expression. I have been supervising MSW students for over a decade, and am currently building a supervision practice for PA LSWs seeking mentorship.
I'm especially passionate about individual expression, identity explorations, and assisting LGBTQIA+ individuals explore their selfhood.
Finding a therapist that's a good fit for you is essential. My specific approach to counseling is empowerment-based, process oriented, and solutions-focused. I find that learning about one's own motivations, strengthening the empathy response, facing fears, and dismantling barriers are what lead to healing, fulfillment, personal growth and freedom. My style is to be curious and challenging, is generally discussion-based, and always leaves room for humor and freedom of expression. I have been supervising MSW students for over a decade, and am currently building a supervision practice for PA LSWs seeking mentorship.
(215) 774-5327 View (215) 774-5327
Photo of Andreya Jones - Andreya Jones Counseling , PhD, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andreya Jones Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
We are kink-aware and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life changes, lack of sexual desire, or difficulty in your relationship(s), we will work alongside you from a place of non-judgment to identify your goals and lay out a path to create meaningful and lasting change. We work with clients who find themselves in relationships where they don’t know how to communicate effectively, have lost intimate connection, struggle with sexual desire, and feel void of eroticism. We have a passion for helping clients cultivate connection, pleasure, play, intimacy, and respect in their relationship(s).
We are kink-aware and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life changes, lack of sexual desire, or difficulty in your relationship(s), we will work alongside you from a place of non-judgment to identify your goals and lay out a path to create meaningful and lasting change. We work with clients who find themselves in relationships where they don’t know how to communicate effectively, have lost intimate connection, struggle with sexual desire, and feel void of eroticism. We have a passion for helping clients cultivate connection, pleasure, play, intimacy, and respect in their relationship(s).
(717) 897-6164 View (717) 897-6164
Photo of Teresa A Mccord, LCSW, MSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa A Mccord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Professional and personal experience with LGBTQAI+ community.
Now accepting new clients beginning September 3rd. I focus on treatment for LGBTQAI and Non Binary clients struggling with trauma, dissociative disorders, transitioning, depression and anxiety. I am trained in EMDR and am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and use trauma informed therapy, internal systems, psychodynamic, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I have over 20 years experience and am compassionate and well informed. I also offer a tele group for transmen who are my clients. Age range is from 18 to 64.
Professional and personal experience with LGBTQAI+ community.
Now accepting new clients beginning September 3rd. I focus on treatment for LGBTQAI and Non Binary clients struggling with trauma, dissociative disorders, transitioning, depression and anxiety. I am trained in EMDR and am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and use trauma informed therapy, internal systems, psychodynamic, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I have over 20 years experience and am compassionate and well informed. I also offer a tele group for transmen who are my clients. Age range is from 18 to 64.
(717) 229-9906 View (717) 229-9906
Photo of Katie Cohen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101  (Online Only)
Therapy can be difficult to begin and I recognize the courage it takes to make this commitment to yourself. In this process, I am committed to a practice of non-judgment and empathy as we explore stressors and difficulties you are experiencing. We will work collaboratively to bring self-acceptance, creativity, and compassion into your everyday struggles. I work with adults experiencing a range of life challenges in the areas of anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, trauma, issues with alcohol and other substances, relationships, sexuality, gender identity, non-monogamy, polyamory, kink and others.
Therapy can be difficult to begin and I recognize the courage it takes to make this commitment to yourself. In this process, I am committed to a practice of non-judgment and empathy as we explore stressors and difficulties you are experiencing. We will work collaboratively to bring self-acceptance, creativity, and compassion into your everyday struggles. I work with adults experiencing a range of life challenges in the areas of anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, trauma, issues with alcohol and other substances, relationships, sexuality, gender identity, non-monogamy, polyamory, kink and others.
(215) 867-8930 View (215) 867-8930
Photo of Marcy J. S. Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcy J. S. Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101  (Online Only)
Hi there and welcome! I offer secure Teletherapy for a variety of mental health and addiction-related concerns. I am accepting new clients who live in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Florida. My areas of expertise are in supporting healthcare professionals, those with anxiety, depression, self-esteem/body-image concerns, relationship challenges, life transitions and addictions. I am passionate about supporting people who need thoughtful guidance in their life's next steps. Together, we can tackle your biggest challenges so that you can enjoy a more fulfilling and rewarding life. Really!
Hi there and welcome! I offer secure Teletherapy for a variety of mental health and addiction-related concerns. I am accepting new clients who live in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Florida. My areas of expertise are in supporting healthcare professionals, those with anxiety, depression, self-esteem/body-image concerns, relationship challenges, life transitions and addictions. I am passionate about supporting people who need thoughtful guidance in their life's next steps. Together, we can tackle your biggest challenges so that you can enjoy a more fulfilling and rewarding life. Really!
(610) 890-4244 View (610) 890-4244
Photo of Jess Adam, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jess Adam
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101  (Online Only)
What would it feel like to be unconditionally supported, the way you support others? What would change if you had someone that walked alongside you, offering skills, safety, and a healthy dose of humor along the way? If you’re curious about the answers to these questions, I invite you to schedule a consultation to see if we might be a good fit - especially if you are a caregiver yourself. I specialize in "supporting the supporters". Whether you are a parent, caring for a family member, or otherwise in a caregiving role - I understand the deep exhaustion that can come from all you give to others.
What would it feel like to be unconditionally supported, the way you support others? What would change if you had someone that walked alongside you, offering skills, safety, and a healthy dose of humor along the way? If you’re curious about the answers to these questions, I invite you to schedule a consultation to see if we might be a good fit - especially if you are a caregiver yourself. I specialize in "supporting the supporters". Whether you are a parent, caring for a family member, or otherwise in a caregiving role - I understand the deep exhaustion that can come from all you give to others.
(610) 795-5309 View (610) 795-5309
Photo of Sara Bupp - West Shore Wellness, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
West Shore Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Hello! We at West Shore Wellness are eager to meet you! We are able to work with children, adolescents, young adults and adults at all stages of life. We enjoy helping clients reach their wellness goals, whatever they may be. We have immediate openings available for daytime appointments & limited evening appointments at this time. Feel free to contact us for more information.
Hello! We at West Shore Wellness are eager to meet you! We are able to work with children, adolescents, young adults and adults at all stages of life. We enjoy helping clients reach their wellness goals, whatever they may be. We have immediate openings available for daytime appointments & limited evening appointments at this time. Feel free to contact us for more information.
(717) 301-4044 View (717) 301-4044
Photo of Christine L. Lemke - Christine L. Lemke, LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine L. Lemke, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101  (Online Only)
If you're taking the time to read this, congratulations! You've already accomplished two goals: You're not happy with how your life is and you're deciding to do something about it. You’ve taken the initial steps. You may have doubts: “How can just talking to someone change my life? I’ll still have the same problems.” The answer? Talking to someone can make all the difference in the world. While you may have the same life circumstances, you’ll be seeing them in a whole new way, with new ways of working through problems. There’s a saying that goes, “Joys shared are joys doubled; sorrows shared are sorrows halved.” It’s true.
If you're taking the time to read this, congratulations! You've already accomplished two goals: You're not happy with how your life is and you're deciding to do something about it. You’ve taken the initial steps. You may have doubts: “How can just talking to someone change my life? I’ll still have the same problems.” The answer? Talking to someone can make all the difference in the world. While you may have the same life circumstances, you’ll be seeing them in a whole new way, with new ways of working through problems. There’s a saying that goes, “Joys shared are joys doubled; sorrows shared are sorrows halved.” It’s true.
(717) 613-6064 View (717) 613-6064
Photo of Darrell L Wilt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darrell L Wilt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Whether it's your marriage, your personal life, or your professional goals, you can be sure that I will help you find solutions to your problems and help you discover how to overcome the challenges in your life. I customize my style to fit yours, so that you have the best opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. I offer more than a conversation through the use of role-playing and visual technologies, to include marker board illustrations to demonstrate key concepts so that you see what is being discussed in order to improve your understanding.
Whether it's your marriage, your personal life, or your professional goals, you can be sure that I will help you find solutions to your problems and help you discover how to overcome the challenges in your life. I customize my style to fit yours, so that you have the best opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. I offer more than a conversation through the use of role-playing and visual technologies, to include marker board illustrations to demonstrate key concepts so that you see what is being discussed in order to improve your understanding.
(717) 467-4274 View (717) 467-4274
Photo of Dr. Marcelle Giovannetti, ACS, LPC, NCC, CADC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Marcelle Giovannetti
Licensed Professional Counselor, ACS, LPC, NCC, CADC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101
I am a full-time Assistant Professor in Messiah University’s Graduate Counseling Program. I also works part-time as a clinician and am the owner of Courageous Hope Counseling LLC. I identify as an immigrant woman of Indian decent and have lived in several countries. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Elizabethtown College, a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University, a doctoral degree from Shippensburg University in Counselor Education and Supervision. and a postgraduate certificate in Social Justice from Harvard University.
I am a full-time Assistant Professor in Messiah University’s Graduate Counseling Program. I also works part-time as a clinician and am the owner of Courageous Hope Counseling LLC. I identify as an immigrant woman of Indian decent and have lived in several countries. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Elizabethtown College, a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University, a doctoral degree from Shippensburg University in Counselor Education and Supervision. and a postgraduate certificate in Social Justice from Harvard University.
(717) 775-6704 View (717) 775-6704
Photo of Candace N Johnson - Purposefully Soaring Counseling Services LLC., MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Purposefully Soaring Counseling Services LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
My name is Candace Johnson and I am the owner of Purposefully Soaring Counseling Services LLC. We are interested in helping you learn how to "Soar with Purpose" ,through the challenges you may be facing. Whether you need a confidential ear to vent or support; our mission is to help you learn practical skill to improve your life. We provide a compassionate non-judgmental, culturally sensitive environment that allows you to express yourself, uncover your barriers, and identify things standing in the way of your happiness.
My name is Candace Johnson and I am the owner of Purposefully Soaring Counseling Services LLC. We are interested in helping you learn how to "Soar with Purpose" ,through the challenges you may be facing. Whether you need a confidential ear to vent or support; our mission is to help you learn practical skill to improve your life. We provide a compassionate non-judgmental, culturally sensitive environment that allows you to express yourself, uncover your barriers, and identify things standing in the way of your happiness.
(717) 366-6723 View (717) 366-6723
Photo of Janice Newcomer, MS, CAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janice Newcomer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
"I believe all persons have the ability to resolve issues that are problematic for them. My job as a therapist is to help clients develop their strengths while at the same time, reduce unproductive behaviors that block movement towards resolution. I use a client centered, cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach to empower clients in resolving concerns, achieving goals and developing greater emotional health."
"I believe all persons have the ability to resolve issues that are problematic for them. My job as a therapist is to help clients develop their strengths while at the same time, reduce unproductive behaviors that block movement towards resolution. I use a client centered, cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach to empower clients in resolving concerns, achieving goals and developing greater emotional health."
(717) 778-4277 View (717) 778-4277
Photo of Mary A Fox, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary A Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Accepting New Clients Online. Wait list for in person. Life is a roller coaster. We all experience ups and downs, twists and turns. And at the end of the ride, we survived even though we may have been anxious, scared or excited. I use a strengths based approach with clients to help them achieve their goals. I am passionate about helping clients find their inner strengths and become their own "cheerleader". Clients are not alone on the journey ... we will journey together to discover strength, resilience and manage the stressors that our roller coaster lives bring to us.
Accepting New Clients Online. Wait list for in person. Life is a roller coaster. We all experience ups and downs, twists and turns. And at the end of the ride, we survived even though we may have been anxious, scared or excited. I use a strengths based approach with clients to help them achieve their goals. I am passionate about helping clients find their inner strengths and become their own "cheerleader". Clients are not alone on the journey ... we will journey together to discover strength, resilience and manage the stressors that our roller coaster lives bring to us.
(717) 482-5910 View (717) 482-5910
Photo of Adam Pritchard, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Adam Pritchard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Each of us faces a whole host of challenges in our lives. Whether these are challenges from our past that are still affecting us today or situations that are ongoing. Or maybe we’re having a tough time with life in general, and we’re not sure why that is, where it’s coming from, or even how to begin to process what we’re struggling with.
Each of us faces a whole host of challenges in our lives. Whether these are challenges from our past that are still affecting us today or situations that are ongoing. Or maybe we’re having a tough time with life in general, and we’re not sure why that is, where it’s coming from, or even how to begin to process what we’re struggling with.
(412) 844-5707 View (412) 844-5707
Photo of Madalyn Elizabeth Smith, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madalyn Elizabeth Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Welcome! I am a licensed social worker with ten years’ experience working in mental health with a wide variety of populations. At this time I am accepting referrals for ages 14 and up. I primarily use a client-centered approach to treatment that can be easily adapted to meet the needs of individuals. I am certified in trauma-informed practice and specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based practices, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I have a special interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment and family dynamics.
Welcome! I am a licensed social worker with ten years’ experience working in mental health with a wide variety of populations. At this time I am accepting referrals for ages 14 and up. I primarily use a client-centered approach to treatment that can be easily adapted to meet the needs of individuals. I am certified in trauma-informed practice and specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based practices, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I have a special interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment and family dynamics.
(814) 821-2480 View (814) 821-2480
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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.