LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 21228

Photo of Amber Hager, PhD, Psychologist
Amber Hager
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience supporting trans and non-binary folks and their partners and can provide support for transition, including writing letters of support for gender affirming medical care.
Supporting the LGBTQ+ community is my therapeutic strength and passion and I provide affirming individual and relationship therapy. Authenticity, congruence, and acceptance are foundations in my work and I am here to help you navigate the concerns that are bringing you to therapy with a warm and open style, sprinkled with humor and compassionate challenge. I can assist you in improving your relationship with yourself, partners, and family by gaining insight into interpersonal patterns, anxieties, and/or trauma responses that may be impacting relationships.
I have extensive experience supporting trans and non-binary folks and their partners and can provide support for transition, including writing letters of support for gender affirming medical care.
Supporting the LGBTQ+ community is my therapeutic strength and passion and I provide affirming individual and relationship therapy. Authenticity, congruence, and acceptance are foundations in my work and I am here to help you navigate the concerns that are bringing you to therapy with a warm and open style, sprinkled with humor and compassionate challenge. I can assist you in improving your relationship with yourself, partners, and family by gaining insight into interpersonal patterns, anxieties, and/or trauma responses that may be impacting relationships.
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Photo of Jared Serrano Louie, LGPC, Counselor
Jared Serrano Louie
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
As a queer clinician my practice is rooted in understanding, affirming, and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. Creating a safe space for you to explore your needs and goals is my priority. I specialize in work with individuals and couples/relational units. My clients are often struggling with attachment or communication challenges; wanting to improve their relationships. They may have had a recent loss, or are suffering from nagging symptoms of anxiety or depression. My approach is engaging and collaborative, I enjoy truly understanding where you currently are, and where you see yourself in the future.
As a queer clinician my practice is rooted in understanding, affirming, and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. Creating a safe space for you to explore your needs and goals is my priority. I specialize in work with individuals and couples/relational units. My clients are often struggling with attachment or communication challenges; wanting to improve their relationships. They may have had a recent loss, or are suffering from nagging symptoms of anxiety or depression. My approach is engaging and collaborative, I enjoy truly understanding where you currently are, and where you see yourself in the future.
(410) 888-0787 View (410) 888-0787
Photo of Lindsey Cheatham, LCPC
Lindsey Cheatham
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I practice from a LGBTQIA+ and neurodiversity affirming, trauma-informed, anti-racist, body-positive perspective.
Hello! I’m so glad you are here! I am a queer therapist who is passionate about supporting the mental health needs of queer & neurodiverse individuals & families. I work with children, teens, adults, & families who are exploring parts of their gender & sexual based identities. I help deeply feeling children & adults navigate a loud and demanding world. I help folks who experience depression, anxiety, grief, & trauma process past experiences and make sense of their world. I teach folks coping skills in order to regulate mood, gain self-compassion, radically accept hard truths, & set boundaries in order to build a more aligned life.
I practice from a LGBTQIA+ and neurodiversity affirming, trauma-informed, anti-racist, body-positive perspective.
Hello! I’m so glad you are here! I am a queer therapist who is passionate about supporting the mental health needs of queer & neurodiverse individuals & families. I work with children, teens, adults, & families who are exploring parts of their gender & sexual based identities. I help deeply feeling children & adults navigate a loud and demanding world. I help folks who experience depression, anxiety, grief, & trauma process past experiences and make sense of their world. I teach folks coping skills in order to regulate mood, gain self-compassion, radically accept hard truths, & set boundaries in order to build a more aligned life.
(443) 963-3569 View (443) 963-3569
Photo of Whitney Hunt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whitney Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
Whitney is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C) and obtained a Master of Social Work from Morgan State University. She enjoy working with teens, adults, families, and couples in a wide range of ages. She has a wide variety of experience working with clients with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, self-harm/ suicidal ideation, substance/ alcohol use, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, developmental disabilities, and more. She enjoys working with LGBTQ+ clients including trans clients.
Whitney is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C) and obtained a Master of Social Work from Morgan State University. She enjoy working with teens, adults, families, and couples in a wide range of ages. She has a wide variety of experience working with clients with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, self-harm/ suicidal ideation, substance/ alcohol use, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, developmental disabilities, and more. She enjoys working with LGBTQ+ clients including trans clients.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Lindsey Weller, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Weller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
My background includes working with diverse populations including LGBTQIA+ communities, Poly, kink, and many others and has allowed me to see the importance in affirming one's individual identity.
Do you feel like you are not living your life to its full potential? Are you utilizing unhealthy coping strategies? If you are feeling unsure, worried, or not like yourself, you've come to the right place. I work with my clients to help them reach their optimal wellness. Together we reduce anxieties, build and mend relationships, and tackle anything life can throw at you. I use a strengths-based and solution-focused approach as well as a verity of techniques to meet each of my clients’ unique needs. www.Mindfulrecoverymd.com
My background includes working with diverse populations including LGBTQIA+ communities, Poly, kink, and many others and has allowed me to see the importance in affirming one's individual identity.
Do you feel like you are not living your life to its full potential? Are you utilizing unhealthy coping strategies? If you are feeling unsure, worried, or not like yourself, you've come to the right place. I work with my clients to help them reach their optimal wellness. Together we reduce anxieties, build and mend relationships, and tackle anything life can throw at you. I use a strengths-based and solution-focused approach as well as a verity of techniques to meet each of my clients’ unique needs. www.Mindfulrecoverymd.com
(410) 695-4355 View (410) 695-4355
Photo of Christina Law, LCSW-C, BCST, TCT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Law
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, BCST, TCT
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with transgender clients, gender dysphoria, bipolar, depression, sex addiction, sex offenses, and more.
As a Clinical Social Worker, Board Certified Sex Therapist, and Certified Transgender Care Therapist, I specialize in transgender care and sexual issues. I work with the LGBTQ community, as well as, heterosexual clients; focusing on gender identity issues, sex addiction, and women's issues. I provide individual and family therapy to promote healing and life enrichment, as well as, evaluation for readiness for transgender related surgeries.
I have experience working with transgender clients, gender dysphoria, bipolar, depression, sex addiction, sex offenses, and more.
As a Clinical Social Worker, Board Certified Sex Therapist, and Certified Transgender Care Therapist, I specialize in transgender care and sexual issues. I work with the LGBTQ community, as well as, heterosexual clients; focusing on gender identity issues, sex addiction, and women's issues. I provide individual and family therapy to promote healing and life enrichment, as well as, evaluation for readiness for transgender related surgeries.
(410) 782-3885 View (410) 782-3885
Photo of Missy Linthicum, LCPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Missy Linthicum
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21228  (Online Only)
As an LCPC in Maryland, I specialize in treating kids and adults who experience varied roadblocks in life. I take a collaborative approach to counseling and therapy, in that you and I will together determine your best treatment, and I have a deep respect for your courage in seeking help. Issues may include anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, school difficulties, PTSD, relationship concerns, disordered personality traits, women’s issues, addiction, codependency, grief, disordered eating, family of origin difficulties, attachment, LGBTQ, transgender, trauma and abuse, parenting, self-esteem, and career difficulties, among others.
As an LCPC in Maryland, I specialize in treating kids and adults who experience varied roadblocks in life. I take a collaborative approach to counseling and therapy, in that you and I will together determine your best treatment, and I have a deep respect for your courage in seeking help. Issues may include anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, school difficulties, PTSD, relationship concerns, disordered personality traits, women’s issues, addiction, codependency, grief, disordered eating, family of origin difficulties, attachment, LGBTQ, transgender, trauma and abuse, parenting, self-esteem, and career difficulties, among others.
(410) 834-0868 View (410) 834-0868
Photo of Alex Hind, MA, LGPC, Counselor
Alex Hind
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is grounded in internal family systems, somatic therapy, trans-feminism, and DBT to support self-acceptance and liberation.
I believe that all people have their own inherent wisdom and as a counselor, I aim to support clients to embody their truest, most authentic self. I use a non-pathologizing model to support you to identify and understand your individualized needs. I find that understanding, empathy, and collaboration, with a focus on grounding in the here and now develops self compassion and acceptance. Often when we are in pain we have trouble accessing those parts of ourselves. Healing and recovery can happen within a safe and compassionate relationship and I aim to provide that container with you.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in internal family systems, somatic therapy, trans-feminism, and DBT to support self-acceptance and liberation.
I believe that all people have their own inherent wisdom and as a counselor, I aim to support clients to embody their truest, most authentic self. I use a non-pathologizing model to support you to identify and understand your individualized needs. I find that understanding, empathy, and collaboration, with a focus on grounding in the here and now develops self compassion and acceptance. Often when we are in pain we have trouble accessing those parts of ourselves. Healing and recovery can happen within a safe and compassionate relationship and I aim to provide that container with you.
(443) 565-6039 View (443) 565-6039
Photo of Denisse (De) Herrera, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denisse (De) Herrera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Whether you're in a non-monogamous relationship, explore BDSM, or simply facing a major life transition, I celebrate your unique journey.
Are you questioning your gender identity or sexual orientation? Do you crave a safe space to explore these aspects of yourself, free from judgment? As a non-binary, queer Latine therapist, I understand the unique challenges you face. I can guide you through navigating your identities within a cultural context, while also celebrating anyone who pushes boundaries and embraces their authentic self in love and sexuality. Whether you're facing a major life change, struggling with past trauma, or simply seeking a compassionate space to heal and grow, I'm here to support you on your journey of self-discovery and liberation.
Whether you're in a non-monogamous relationship, explore BDSM, or simply facing a major life transition, I celebrate your unique journey.
Are you questioning your gender identity or sexual orientation? Do you crave a safe space to explore these aspects of yourself, free from judgment? As a non-binary, queer Latine therapist, I understand the unique challenges you face. I can guide you through navigating your identities within a cultural context, while also celebrating anyone who pushes boundaries and embraces their authentic self in love and sexuality. Whether you're facing a major life change, struggling with past trauma, or simply seeking a compassionate space to heal and grow, I'm here to support you on your journey of self-discovery and liberation.
(410) 453-8541 View (410) 453-8541
Photo of Cashmere O’Neal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cashmere O’Neal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Maryland with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, LGBTQIA+ related issues, religious and spiritual problems, relationship issues, & intimacy related issues. I also specialize in polygyny, polyamorous, and kink-based relationship issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I am here to support & empower you in that journe
I am licensed in Maryland with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, LGBTQIA+ related issues, religious and spiritual problems, relationship issues, & intimacy related issues. I also specialize in polygyny, polyamorous, and kink-based relationship issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I am here to support & empower you in that journe
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Jodi Cobb, PhD, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jodi Cobb
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
With over 35 years of experience, I bring compassion, humor, and creativity to my work with individuals and families. My professional interests include psychotherapy with parent-child dyads, parent support from an attachment-focused lens, and individual work with adults and teens. I have experience and interest in working with families impacted by attachment issues, adoption, foster care, trauma, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
With over 35 years of experience, I bring compassion, humor, and creativity to my work with individuals and families. My professional interests include psychotherapy with parent-child dyads, parent support from an attachment-focused lens, and individual work with adults and teens. I have experience and interest in working with families impacted by attachment issues, adoption, foster care, trauma, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
(443) 400-7310 View (443) 400-7310
Photo of Elizabeth Harring, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Harring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I believe in the power of showing up and providing genuine support in a positive, non-judgmental environment. Regardless of where you are in your journey, we can start the process of healing and problem solving. I am a member of and work with the LGBTQIA+ community and am passionately committed to providing affirmative care; guided by WPATH standards. I work with couples or relational units using an emotionally focused therapy approach to heal deep wounds and shift patterns of behavior and communication. I also work with those facing infertility, family planning, using IVF, or choosing a solo parenting journey.
I believe in the power of showing up and providing genuine support in a positive, non-judgmental environment. Regardless of where you are in your journey, we can start the process of healing and problem solving. I am a member of and work with the LGBTQIA+ community and am passionately committed to providing affirmative care; guided by WPATH standards. I work with couples or relational units using an emotionally focused therapy approach to heal deep wounds and shift patterns of behavior and communication. I also work with those facing infertility, family planning, using IVF, or choosing a solo parenting journey.
(443) 503-3454 View (443) 503-3454
Photo of Dr. Claudette Kirkman - Wellbeing Designed, LLC, PhD,, Psychologist
Wellbeing Designed, LLC
Psychologist, PhD,
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
We address many issues but often work with anxiety, burnout, stressful work situations, family dynamics, discrimination, body/self-image, and relationships as well as identity exploration and support for queer identified and/or racially minoritized populations.
At Wellbeing Designed, LLC, we know that when it comes to seeking therapy, you may just want more for yourself than what you are experiencing now. The goal is to help you identify what you are feeling and empower you to find answers, gain insights, and make changes. It is important to meet you where you are in the healing process, be authentic, and pay attention to the whole person including familial, cultural, or societal dynamics that impact wellbeing and coping. All providers affiliated with the practice share in this belief.
We address many issues but often work with anxiety, burnout, stressful work situations, family dynamics, discrimination, body/self-image, and relationships as well as identity exploration and support for queer identified and/or racially minoritized populations.
At Wellbeing Designed, LLC, we know that when it comes to seeking therapy, you may just want more for yourself than what you are experiencing now. The goal is to help you identify what you are feeling and empower you to find answers, gain insights, and make changes. It is important to meet you where you are in the healing process, be authentic, and pay attention to the whole person including familial, cultural, or societal dynamics that impact wellbeing and coping. All providers affiliated with the practice share in this belief.
(240) 204-6422 View (240) 204-6422
Photo of Brenna Neimanis, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenna Neimanis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Body Positive, LGBTQIA+ Affirming, Trauma-Informed, and BIPOC allied therapist.
I currently have a waitlist - Welcome to therapy, I’m so happy you are here! My practice is focused on feeling at home within yourself & providing a safe place to explore your whole self through individual, partnered, and/or family therapy. I use an inclusive, holistic approach & understand that each client is a unique individual & is impacted by their experiences, as well as societal structures & norms. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, burn-out, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, mood disorders, difficulty coping, family/partner conflict, concerns with self-worth, & those who have experienced trauma.
I am a Body Positive, LGBTQIA+ Affirming, Trauma-Informed, and BIPOC allied therapist.
I currently have a waitlist - Welcome to therapy, I’m so happy you are here! My practice is focused on feeling at home within yourself & providing a safe place to explore your whole self through individual, partnered, and/or family therapy. I use an inclusive, holistic approach & understand that each client is a unique individual & is impacted by their experiences, as well as societal structures & norms. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, burn-out, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, mood disorders, difficulty coping, family/partner conflict, concerns with self-worth, & those who have experienced trauma.
(443) 457-9293 View (443) 457-9293
Photo of Stacey J Hellman, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey J Hellman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
I also have plenty of experience navigating grief/loss, relationship conflicts, divorce, and LGBTQIA issues.
If you have tried traditional "talk therapy" in the past and are still stuck, I can help! If you're struggling with anxiety, PTSD, or trauma, I encourage you to try a different approach. Together we will dive deeper to get to the root cause rather than immediately trying to fix the problem. It's always more complex than it appears on the surface and this work takes time and effort. I offer more expressive and experiential modalities to help you make meaningful, lasting changes and take you beyond just talk therapy. I take a holistic and integrative approach and see you as a whole person and not just a person with "issues."
I also have plenty of experience navigating grief/loss, relationship conflicts, divorce, and LGBTQIA issues.
If you have tried traditional "talk therapy" in the past and are still stuck, I can help! If you're struggling with anxiety, PTSD, or trauma, I encourage you to try a different approach. Together we will dive deeper to get to the root cause rather than immediately trying to fix the problem. It's always more complex than it appears on the surface and this work takes time and effort. I offer more expressive and experiential modalities to help you make meaningful, lasting changes and take you beyond just talk therapy. I take a holistic and integrative approach and see you as a whole person and not just a person with "issues."
(443) 329-5564 View (443) 329-5564
Photo of Colleen Gannon, LGPC, Counselor
Colleen Gannon
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I practice from an anti-racist, queer affirming, person-centered perspective.
In today’s world it is easy to feel disconnected and overstimulated. Whether it be from work, school, kids, friends, family, or romantic partners. You might often feel the overwhelming pressure to “have it all.” My goal as a therapist is to help you navigate and process your unique experiences free from judgement and centered around trust. I use a trauma informed, strengths-based approach tailored to your individual needs. I value helping you find meaningful connection within the world around you- and more importantly within yourself.
I practice from an anti-racist, queer affirming, person-centered perspective.
In today’s world it is easy to feel disconnected and overstimulated. Whether it be from work, school, kids, friends, family, or romantic partners. You might often feel the overwhelming pressure to “have it all.” My goal as a therapist is to help you navigate and process your unique experiences free from judgement and centered around trust. I use a trauma informed, strengths-based approach tailored to your individual needs. I value helping you find meaningful connection within the world around you- and more importantly within yourself.
(410) 881-8189 View (410) 881-8189
Photo of Tyler Howard, LCPC, Counselor
Tyler Howard
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
I believe counseling should focus on supporting the client in building a life worth living. Only you know what life "fits" you best, but it is helpful to have someone along for that journey, to point out lessons along the way! My goal is to help you identify what in your life keeps you stuck, what roles and values fulfill you, and to minimize the former while maximizing the latter. What kind of life "fits" you? Let's find out! "The shoe that fits one person pinches another; there is no recipe for living that suits all cases." -Carl Jung. www.invisiblethreadcounseling.com
I believe counseling should focus on supporting the client in building a life worth living. Only you know what life "fits" you best, but it is helpful to have someone along for that journey, to point out lessons along the way! My goal is to help you identify what in your life keeps you stuck, what roles and values fulfill you, and to minimize the former while maximizing the latter. What kind of life "fits" you? Let's find out! "The shoe that fits one person pinches another; there is no recipe for living that suits all cases." -Carl Jung. www.invisiblethreadcounseling.com
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Photo of Lateria Floyd, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lateria Floyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
HPS Counseling is a client-oriented practice. We put your well-being first and together we work on and identify what solutions will work best for you, your lifestyle, and your healing/ change journey. We provide a variety of services with tools ranging from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, Mindfulness, Meditation, Yoga, Natural/Holistic based (aromatherapy, holistic medicine, meditative sounds, nutrition, and natural oils) and spirituality.
HPS Counseling is a client-oriented practice. We put your well-being first and together we work on and identify what solutions will work best for you, your lifestyle, and your healing/ change journey. We provide a variety of services with tools ranging from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, Mindfulness, Meditation, Yoga, Natural/Holistic based (aromatherapy, holistic medicine, meditative sounds, nutrition, and natural oils) and spirituality.
(443) 396-2343 View (443) 396-2343
Photo of Sara Murry, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Murry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
Do you want to learn to manage difficult emotions, build a better life, and increase your self-acceptance? I will create a safe and affirming space to collaborate with you on your journey of self-discovery, explore your deeper issues, and move towards thriving in your well being. As a therapist I am thoughtful, warm, and communicative. I genuinely see the best in people while holding a judgement-free space to explore needs, work through challenges, and accomplish goals.
Do you want to learn to manage difficult emotions, build a better life, and increase your self-acceptance? I will create a safe and affirming space to collaborate with you on your journey of self-discovery, explore your deeper issues, and move towards thriving in your well being. As a therapist I am thoughtful, warm, and communicative. I genuinely see the best in people while holding a judgement-free space to explore needs, work through challenges, and accomplish goals.
(443) 648-9760 View (443) 648-9760
Photo of Maeve McDevitt, LGPC, Counselor
Maeve McDevitt
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I work with couples and individuals on issues such as communication, anxiety, and transitions.
Our interpersonal relationships are at the core of leading meaningful and fulfilled lives. When these relationships suffer, it can leave us with feelings of despair, loneliness, and loss. Whether it be a breach of trust through infidelity, a loss of connection, or persistent fights without resolve, we will work together to restore and strengthen these bonds. We all have the capacity for change, but sometimes need help getting there. Together, we will figure out what is working, what isn’t, and how we can build intentional and strong connections with those we love.
I work with couples and individuals on issues such as communication, anxiety, and transitions.
Our interpersonal relationships are at the core of leading meaningful and fulfilled lives. When these relationships suffer, it can leave us with feelings of despair, loneliness, and loss. Whether it be a breach of trust through infidelity, a loss of connection, or persistent fights without resolve, we will work together to restore and strengthen these bonds. We all have the capacity for change, but sometimes need help getting there. Together, we will figure out what is working, what isn’t, and how we can build intentional and strong connections with those we love.
(410) 397-7755 View (410) 397-7755
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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.