LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 28451

Photo of Drew Bell, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Drew Bell
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Leland, NC 28451
As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community I understand some of the unique challenges faced by this community.
There are times throughout life when we all need some extra support or guidance. Maybe you’re going through a season of change and could benefit from a helping hand through this transition, or maybe you feel ready to work through recent or past trauma. Perhaps you need help working through the anxiety and stress that comes with everyday modern life. Whatever your reason for reaching out may be, I enjoy helping people regain control in life, find inner peace, and emerge stronger and better equipped to face all of life’s challenges.
As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community I understand some of the unique challenges faced by this community.
There are times throughout life when we all need some extra support or guidance. Maybe you’re going through a season of change and could benefit from a helping hand through this transition, or maybe you feel ready to work through recent or past trauma. Perhaps you need help working through the anxiety and stress that comes with everyday modern life. Whatever your reason for reaching out may be, I enjoy helping people regain control in life, find inner peace, and emerge stronger and better equipped to face all of life’s challenges.
(910) 841-1948 View (910) 841-1948
Photo of Danielle A Dest, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle A Dest
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451
Hello and welcome to your journey in finding a therapist to support you through your process of addressing the issue that you identify and desire change with to help live a healthy and authentic life. I truly enjoy working with families as they work together to address the health of their family system. I feel passionate and genuinely capable of working with individuals, couples and families through queer related issues. Lastly, I am well versed and experienced working through supporting others through their unique grief experience.
Hello and welcome to your journey in finding a therapist to support you through your process of addressing the issue that you identify and desire change with to help live a healthy and authentic life. I truly enjoy working with families as they work together to address the health of their family system. I feel passionate and genuinely capable of working with individuals, couples and families through queer related issues. Lastly, I am well versed and experienced working through supporting others through their unique grief experience.
(910) 597-3447 View (910) 597-3447
Photo of Megan L English, MA, LCMHC
Megan L English
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451
Hi! If you’re searching for a therapist, chances are you might be struggling with something in your life. I sure hope that whomever you choose to work with helps you feel better, think better, and ultimately process what’s happening with refined skills. You've got this! I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and depressive disorders. I also value working with the LGBTQ population, including adolescents, families, and adults, as well as foster/adoptive families. Working with anyone who recognizes a need for change or is interested in making their life better is perfect for me!
Hi! If you’re searching for a therapist, chances are you might be struggling with something in your life. I sure hope that whomever you choose to work with helps you feel better, think better, and ultimately process what’s happening with refined skills. You've got this! I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and depressive disorders. I also value working with the LGBTQ population, including adolescents, families, and adults, as well as foster/adoptive families. Working with anyone who recognizes a need for change or is interested in making their life better is perfect for me!
(910) 370-8927 View (910) 370-8927
Photo of Katherine Bautista, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Bautista
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451  (Online Only)
I am a minority and LGBTQ+ ally.
I am so excited that you found my page and I appreciate you taking the time to review my information and consider establishing a working relationship with me. I am the owner/operator of Peaceful Remedy Counseling and I have 11+ years in working with adults doing what I love to do. I get to support people in making dreams and goals come true. I focus on the counseling relationship and collaborate in working towards your goals. I would describe the experience as you choose the destination and drive, I am the GPS.
I am a minority and LGBTQ+ ally.
I am so excited that you found my page and I appreciate you taking the time to review my information and consider establishing a working relationship with me. I am the owner/operator of Peaceful Remedy Counseling and I have 11+ years in working with adults doing what I love to do. I get to support people in making dreams and goals come true. I focus on the counseling relationship and collaborate in working towards your goals. I would describe the experience as you choose the destination and drive, I am the GPS.
(336) 849-5678 View (336) 849-5678
Photo of Hayley Nemeth, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hayley Nemeth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451
She also works with a variety of issues to include depression, anxiety, transition to college, choice motherhood, LGBTQ+ support, women's issues, caregiver burnout, financial stress, among other issues.
Accepting NEW clients for September! Hayley practices from a client-centered approach, tailoring treatment to meet individual needs and preferences. She strives to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental, healing environment in which one can safely explore and process thoughts, feelings, and beliefs while working to achieve personal goals.
She also works with a variety of issues to include depression, anxiety, transition to college, choice motherhood, LGBTQ+ support, women's issues, caregiver burnout, financial stress, among other issues.
Accepting NEW clients for September! Hayley practices from a client-centered approach, tailoring treatment to meet individual needs and preferences. She strives to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental, healing environment in which one can safely explore and process thoughts, feelings, and beliefs while working to achieve personal goals.
(910) 218-8288 View (910) 218-8288
Photo of Kaitlyn Deanne Isherwood, LCMHCA, MS
Kaitlyn Deanne Isherwood
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451
I specialize working with teens, college-students, and adults who struggle with depression, generalized anxiety, have a history of trauma, and/or identify as LGBTQIA+.
Have you been feeling disconnected, on-edge, or burnt-out? Do wake up every morning dreading the day? Are you are seeking change but have no idea where to begin? I recognize that starting is the hardest part. I am here to assist, guide and support client's so they feel empowered, motivated and grounded to handle life's toughest challenges. From life transitions such as moving, break-ups, strained familial dynamics, career-changes, marital concerns, or navigating caregiving responsibilities, we will collaboratively work together to set attainable goals while celebrating success and progress along the way.
I specialize working with teens, college-students, and adults who struggle with depression, generalized anxiety, have a history of trauma, and/or identify as LGBTQIA+.
Have you been feeling disconnected, on-edge, or burnt-out? Do wake up every morning dreading the day? Are you are seeking change but have no idea where to begin? I recognize that starting is the hardest part. I am here to assist, guide and support client's so they feel empowered, motivated and grounded to handle life's toughest challenges. From life transitions such as moving, break-ups, strained familial dynamics, career-changes, marital concerns, or navigating caregiving responsibilities, we will collaboratively work together to set attainable goals while celebrating success and progress along the way.
(910) 901-7881 View (910) 901-7881
Photo of Crystal Fussell, MS, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Fussell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451
I also assist with addressing self-esteem and processing gender identity in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Have you found yourself struggling with difficult adjustments, finding the strength to move forward after a challenging or traumatic experience, or finding the motivation to keep up with daily tasks? I’m here to help and offer insight and guidance during these times.
I also assist with addressing self-esteem and processing gender identity in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Have you found yourself struggling with difficult adjustments, finding the strength to move forward after a challenging or traumatic experience, or finding the motivation to keep up with daily tasks? I’m here to help and offer insight and guidance during these times.
(910) 601-9596 View (910) 601-9596
Photo of Mercedes McLaughlin, CMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mercedes McLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with all teens through adults struggling with life cycle changes, role obligations, school/work transitions, anxiety, depression, family issues, performance anxiety, communication struggles, emotional regulation, self-esteem, or anger management. If you ever have felt like “adulting” is too much, that life feels unbalanced, or that you are in a perpetual state of exhaustion, we can start by working together to find out what balance looks like for you. I am also a member of, and I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ population and addressing concerns specific to that population.
I am passionate about working with all teens through adults struggling with life cycle changes, role obligations, school/work transitions, anxiety, depression, family issues, performance anxiety, communication struggles, emotional regulation, self-esteem, or anger management. If you ever have felt like “adulting” is too much, that life feels unbalanced, or that you are in a perpetual state of exhaustion, we can start by working together to find out what balance looks like for you. I am also a member of, and I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ population and addressing concerns specific to that population.
(910) 469-0435 View (910) 469-0435
Photo of Marriah C Kalil, MS, LMFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marriah C Kalil
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Leland, NC 28451
I enjoy working with LGBT clients and I have extensive experience treating infidelity.
Life often does not turn out as hoped for or expected. It can be difficult to navigate amidst feelings of isolation, sadness, anxiety, and grief. Relationships often suffer as a result of life stressors and the baggage we all bring into them from our own experiences. People want to feel lighter, healthier, and happier which can be achieved through a variety of tools and interventions. Through a combination of both experiential and cognitive approaches, therapy can help to ease the weight of tough times and instill hope and change.
I enjoy working with LGBT clients and I have extensive experience treating infidelity.
Life often does not turn out as hoped for or expected. It can be difficult to navigate amidst feelings of isolation, sadness, anxiety, and grief. Relationships often suffer as a result of life stressors and the baggage we all bring into them from our own experiences. People want to feel lighter, healthier, and happier which can be achieved through a variety of tools and interventions. Through a combination of both experiential and cognitive approaches, therapy can help to ease the weight of tough times and instill hope and change.
(910) 613-9292 View (910) 613-9292
Photo of Rachel March, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel March
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451
I am LGBTQ+ affirming and recognize that each client comes to therapy with different life experiences, using my skills of empathy and kindness to make every client feel comfortable.
Life is filled with unexpected challenges - navigating a new diagnosis, becoming a parent or caregiver, changing jobs, things not turning out as expected. I work with individuals who are navigating life’s transitions, helping clients to navigate the connection between emotional and physical health and advocating for the importance of caring for both. I help clients learn to practice mindfulness to become more aware of the present moment, identify their true values and learn to make decisions aligning with these values.
I am LGBTQ+ affirming and recognize that each client comes to therapy with different life experiences, using my skills of empathy and kindness to make every client feel comfortable.
Life is filled with unexpected challenges - navigating a new diagnosis, becoming a parent or caregiver, changing jobs, things not turning out as expected. I work with individuals who are navigating life’s transitions, helping clients to navigate the connection between emotional and physical health and advocating for the importance of caring for both. I help clients learn to practice mindfulness to become more aware of the present moment, identify their true values and learn to make decisions aligning with these values.
(910) 629-2903 View (910) 629-2903
Photo of Kendall Tidey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kendall Tidey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451
Waitlist for new clients
I also facilitate a free monthly transgender and gender-diverse support group - contact me for more details and screening!.
I work with adults who want to change negative patterns in their lives, improve self-esteem, and get free from problems that have them feeling stuck. I specialize in working with transgender and gender diverse populations; supporting clients navigate transition or explore their gender identity. I also enjoy working with all adults struggling with mood disorders, anxiety and those experiencing a difficult season in life.
I also facilitate a free monthly transgender and gender-diverse support group - contact me for more details and screening!.
I work with adults who want to change negative patterns in their lives, improve self-esteem, and get free from problems that have them feeling stuck. I specialize in working with transgender and gender diverse populations; supporting clients navigate transition or explore their gender identity. I also enjoy working with all adults struggling with mood disorders, anxiety and those experiencing a difficult season in life.
(910) 387-0794 View (910) 387-0794
Photo of Cayleigh Metcalf, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Cayleigh Metcalf
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451
My expertise also extends to LGBTQ+ support and all ethical non-monogamous relationship support.
You have inherent value and my goal is to work collaboratively with you to find the best form of therapy to fit your needs. After all the suffering you’ve endured, you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. You deserve someone who will show you empathy and compassion, cheering you on, as you become your favorite version of yourself. Together, we can find a therapeutic method that works best for you. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, specializing in trauma from childhood, depression, and relationship issues. I see clients 18+ who are navigating trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, and attachment struggles
My expertise also extends to LGBTQ+ support and all ethical non-monogamous relationship support.
You have inherent value and my goal is to work collaboratively with you to find the best form of therapy to fit your needs. After all the suffering you’ve endured, you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. You deserve someone who will show you empathy and compassion, cheering you on, as you become your favorite version of yourself. Together, we can find a therapeutic method that works best for you. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, specializing in trauma from childhood, depression, and relationship issues. I see clients 18+ who are navigating trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, and attachment struggles
(910) 898-3359 View (910) 898-3359
Photo of Kelly Rose, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Kelly Rose
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, women's issues, and LGBTQIA issues.
Are you finding yourself stuck in the same cyclical patterns of unhealed wounds and behaviors that are affecting your overall mental health and wellbeing? Do you find yourself repeating the same actions that have caused unnecessary pain and suffering in your life? Do you often feel alone and struggle with intrusive thoughts or overwhelming emotions? At times, we may feel lost in our own individual journeys, however, therapy can be a tremendous segue into personal healing. I believe in treating the root of the symptom while supporting my clients through their emotional processes geared toward growth and resolution. You are not alone.
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, women's issues, and LGBTQIA issues.
Are you finding yourself stuck in the same cyclical patterns of unhealed wounds and behaviors that are affecting your overall mental health and wellbeing? Do you find yourself repeating the same actions that have caused unnecessary pain and suffering in your life? Do you often feel alone and struggle with intrusive thoughts or overwhelming emotions? At times, we may feel lost in our own individual journeys, however, therapy can be a tremendous segue into personal healing. I believe in treating the root of the symptom while supporting my clients through their emotional processes geared toward growth and resolution. You are not alone.
(910) 460-3445 View (910) 460-3445
Photo of Clay Gruber, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clay Gruber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451
My foremost specialty is working with the LGBTQ+ population, particularly gender-diverse teens and adults.
Hey there, I’m Clay, a therapist who’s here to support you on your journey through life. I specialize in working with teenagers and young adults, helping them navigate the challenges that come their way. Transitioning through different phases of life can be tough, but I’m here to help make it a smoother ride. I have a laid-back style and love to use humor to make difficult topics easier to discuss. Life can be heavy at times, but through laughter and a relaxed atmosphere, we can tackle tough conversations together. I believe that creating a non-judgmental environment is crucial for genuine exploration and personal growth.
My foremost specialty is working with the LGBTQ+ population, particularly gender-diverse teens and adults.
Hey there, I’m Clay, a therapist who’s here to support you on your journey through life. I specialize in working with teenagers and young adults, helping them navigate the challenges that come their way. Transitioning through different phases of life can be tough, but I’m here to help make it a smoother ride. I have a laid-back style and love to use humor to make difficult topics easier to discuss. Life can be heavy at times, but through laughter and a relaxed atmosphere, we can tackle tough conversations together. I believe that creating a non-judgmental environment is crucial for genuine exploration and personal growth.
(910) 714-4340 View (910) 714-4340
Photo of Noshima Darden-Tabb - Life Without Limits, Inc., MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life Without Limits, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451
With over 20 years of experience, we have assisted many clients in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual orientation/ LGBT issues, adjustment concerns and coping with challenges experienced in life stages.
We all have life challenges from time to time. That is why at LWL, Inc. our treatment approach is nonjudgmental and supportive. Whether one is having adjustment issues, depression or coping that has led to negative consequences, we can assist you with developing new skills and coping strategies towards your life goals. Together we can make it happen.
With over 20 years of experience, we have assisted many clients in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual orientation/ LGBT issues, adjustment concerns and coping with challenges experienced in life stages.
We all have life challenges from time to time. That is why at LWL, Inc. our treatment approach is nonjudgmental and supportive. Whether one is having adjustment issues, depression or coping that has led to negative consequences, we can assist you with developing new skills and coping strategies towards your life goals. Together we can make it happen.
(984) 223-4783 View (984) 223-4783
Photo of Ashley Eldridge - Ashley Eldridge, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Eldridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451
I provide an affirming space for clients who are LGBTQIA+, autistic, or neurodivergent, have experienced religious trauma, chronic/terminal health conditions, caregiving for others, loss in their life, or are seeking acknowledgment and acceptance.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I have worked for 20 years in mental health, addiction, and disability services with people of all ages in home, community, inpatient, and office settings. Clients contact me with a variety of needs. Some have never been in therapy or have had negative experiences with therapists, whom they feel didn't adequately address their needs. I strive to provide a safe atmosphere of empathy and compassion where you can finally feel accepted and heard. I offer tools, coping skills, and resources to help you tackle current challenges and meet your goals.
I provide an affirming space for clients who are LGBTQIA+, autistic, or neurodivergent, have experienced religious trauma, chronic/terminal health conditions, caregiving for others, loss in their life, or are seeking acknowledgment and acceptance.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I have worked for 20 years in mental health, addiction, and disability services with people of all ages in home, community, inpatient, and office settings. Clients contact me with a variety of needs. Some have never been in therapy or have had negative experiences with therapists, whom they feel didn't adequately address their needs. I strive to provide a safe atmosphere of empathy and compassion where you can finally feel accepted and heard. I offer tools, coping skills, and resources to help you tackle current challenges and meet your goals.
(910) 777-5185 View (910) 777-5185
Photo of Heidi Rochelle, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Rochelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451  (Online Only)
Welcome, so glad you are here. Perhaps you're here because life feels overwhelming, with too much focus on tasks and not enough time to truly be present or enjoy it. Maybe your emotions have been too intense for too long, and you're seeking someone to help you gain more control over them. Maybe you feel disconnected from those around you, yet simultaneously overwhelmed by being too connected, and you're striving to find balance and I'm here to help with that.
Welcome, so glad you are here. Perhaps you're here because life feels overwhelming, with too much focus on tasks and not enough time to truly be present or enjoy it. Maybe your emotions have been too intense for too long, and you're seeking someone to help you gain more control over them. Maybe you feel disconnected from those around you, yet simultaneously overwhelmed by being too connected, and you're striving to find balance and I'm here to help with that.
(910) 855-0641 View (910) 855-0641
Photo of Courtney Jost, LCSWA, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Jost
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451  (Online Only)
We as people are always experiencing change and sometimes change can feel overwhelming, terrifying, and leave us questioning things. Maybe you find yourself at a pivotal moment in life and are unsure of what to do next. Maybe you find yourself questioning who you are and you're feeling lost. Maybe your relationship with whoever it may be, friends, family, or a partner has you feeling stressed. In our work together you will develop empowerment, confidence, and skills to navigate the ever-changing moments life throws at you.
We as people are always experiencing change and sometimes change can feel overwhelming, terrifying, and leave us questioning things. Maybe you find yourself at a pivotal moment in life and are unsure of what to do next. Maybe you find yourself questioning who you are and you're feeling lost. Maybe your relationship with whoever it may be, friends, family, or a partner has you feeling stressed. In our work together you will develop empowerment, confidence, and skills to navigate the ever-changing moments life throws at you.
(910) 981-2394 View (910) 981-2394
Photo of Veronica A Zinkham - Veronica A. Zinkham, LPC, Psychotherapist, MA, NCC, LPC, CPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Veronica A. Zinkham, LPC, Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CPC
Verified Verified
Leland, NC 28451
My goal is to help you feel welcomed, safe, and unjudged. My passion is to assist you in learning to meet, manage, and move beyond difficult life challenges and gain optimal growth and belief in YOU. If you struggle with Relationships, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Trauma or Abuse, you have the power to heal. I am humbled by the human spirit. Therapy is a process of collaboration, mutual goal setting, awareness, trust and change. When you are hurting, reach out - help is there for you. I will offer support, guidance and steps to overcome life hurts.
My goal is to help you feel welcomed, safe, and unjudged. My passion is to assist you in learning to meet, manage, and move beyond difficult life challenges and gain optimal growth and belief in YOU. If you struggle with Relationships, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Trauma or Abuse, you have the power to heal. I am humbled by the human spirit. Therapy is a process of collaboration, mutual goal setting, awareness, trust and change. When you are hurting, reach out - help is there for you. I will offer support, guidance and steps to overcome life hurts.
(412) 265-2646 View (412) 265-2646
Photo of Lisa Layman, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CSAT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Layman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CSAT, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Leland, NC 28451
I specialize in Sex & Porn addiction believe that everyone is entitled to have his or her own unique experience in therapy and that a strong individualized therapeutic relationship is central to the healing process. It is my goal to provide a safe and open space where clients feel comfortable freely expressing their thoughts and feelings, without judgment. I utilize EMDR to reduce the thoughts that motivate unhealthy behaviors and decrease distressing symptoms.
I specialize in Sex & Porn addiction believe that everyone is entitled to have his or her own unique experience in therapy and that a strong individualized therapeutic relationship is central to the healing process. It is my goal to provide a safe and open space where clients feel comfortable freely expressing their thoughts and feelings, without judgment. I utilize EMDR to reduce the thoughts that motivate unhealthy behaviors and decrease distressing symptoms.
(910) 202-4353 View (910) 202-4353
1
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.