Photo of Michael Venezia, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Venezia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I really love working with all different clientele and try to provide a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ environment.
It takes courage to reach out and I am here to support and empower you. I want to help clients feel more affirmed, heard, and I want to provide a safe and open space to discuss issues. I hope clients leave feeling more encouraged, motivated, and relieved to take on life's issues.
I really love working with all different clientele and try to provide a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ environment.
It takes courage to reach out and I am here to support and empower you. I want to help clients feel more affirmed, heard, and I want to provide a safe and open space to discuss issues. I hope clients leave feeling more encouraged, motivated, and relieved to take on life's issues.
(404) 341-4519 View (404) 341-4519
Photo of Frederick Dare Brockington, MS, NCC, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Frederick Dare Brockington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
LGBT friendly! All clients are welcome to begin their journey to healing.
Life presents us with many challenging events. It can be difficult to maneuver through the maze of life by yourself. I am here to guide you through this journey with an open heart and an open mind. I have created a judgement free environment, so we can explore your feelings of sadness, anxiety, loss, and any other emotions that you are experiencing. I integrate cognitive behavioral and family systems approaches and interventions. I believe a person's experiences are reflective of their family experiences, and that if a person replaces negative behaviors with positive behaviors, they can better their lives.
LGBT friendly! All clients are welcome to begin their journey to healing.
Life presents us with many challenging events. It can be difficult to maneuver through the maze of life by yourself. I am here to guide you through this journey with an open heart and an open mind. I have created a judgement free environment, so we can explore your feelings of sadness, anxiety, loss, and any other emotions that you are experiencing. I integrate cognitive behavioral and family systems approaches and interventions. I believe a person's experiences are reflective of their family experiences, and that if a person replaces negative behaviors with positive behaviors, they can better their lives.
(404) 574-5882 View (404) 574-5882
Photo of Courtney Howell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Howell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067  (Online Only)
Hi there! Starting therapy or any new journey of our lives can be difficult, so I am here to support you during this therapeutic process. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, family, marital, relationship, sexuality, or employment stressors, you are not alone and we can work through this together. My name is Courtney Howell, I am a LGBTQ+ affirmative, body positive, and non-traditional relationship affirming therapist. I try to help teens, adults, and couples find a place where they are accepted and comfortable. I provide online telehealth sessions ONLY at this time.
Hi there! Starting therapy or any new journey of our lives can be difficult, so I am here to support you during this therapeutic process. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, family, marital, relationship, sexuality, or employment stressors, you are not alone and we can work through this together. My name is Courtney Howell, I am a LGBTQ+ affirmative, body positive, and non-traditional relationship affirming therapist. I try to help teens, adults, and couples find a place where they are accepted and comfortable. I provide online telehealth sessions ONLY at this time.
(770) 404-8855 View (770) 404-8855
Photo of Fitkeesha Beckford Approved Supervisor, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fitkeesha Beckford Approved Supervisor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with folx who experience circumstances surrounding anxiety, depression, freedom of self, life’s adjustments, LGBTQIA+ issues, relationships, stress, and wellness.
Throughout life, we encounter experiences that help shape how we view the world around us, how we view others, and how we view ourselves. Some of these experiences are within our control (self-esteem, career choice, interpersonal relationships, etc), while others are not (microaggressions, social injustice, traumatic experiences, etc). Brevity of the Soul provides a safe space to get to the heart of the matter and unpack the impact that these experiences have on well-being, and explore effective ways to manage ongoing mental, emotional, social, and/or even professional wellness.
I specialize in working with folx who experience circumstances surrounding anxiety, depression, freedom of self, life’s adjustments, LGBTQIA+ issues, relationships, stress, and wellness.
Throughout life, we encounter experiences that help shape how we view the world around us, how we view others, and how we view ourselves. Some of these experiences are within our control (self-esteem, career choice, interpersonal relationships, etc), while others are not (microaggressions, social injustice, traumatic experiences, etc). Brevity of the Soul provides a safe space to get to the heart of the matter and unpack the impact that these experiences have on well-being, and explore effective ways to manage ongoing mental, emotional, social, and/or even professional wellness.
(678) 661-6961 View (678) 661-6961
Photo of Zenith Seixas, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zenith Seixas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I am experienced in working with adults, couples/partners and the LGBTQ+ community.
My intention in working with you is to increase your independence so that you can live a comfortable  and happy life. When working with you , I will consider multiple factors such as thought patterns, spirituality, body and mind. I began studying psychology in 1996 and obtained my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Kennesaw State University (summa cum laude) and Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Georgia State University
I am experienced in working with adults, couples/partners and the LGBTQ+ community.
My intention in working with you is to increase your independence so that you can live a comfortable  and happy life. When working with you , I will consider multiple factors such as thought patterns, spirituality, body and mind. I began studying psychology in 1996 and obtained my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Kennesaw State University (summa cum laude) and Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Georgia State University
(678) 392-3814 View (678) 392-3814
Photo of Mary Elizabeth Ebinger - Attento Counseling Practice, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Attento Counseling Practice
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
Our approach to therapy is dynamic and we specialize in a variety of issues including, ADHD, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, Dual Diagnosis, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Grief, Life Coaching, Marital & Premarital, Men's Issues, Peer Relationships, Transgender, Trauma & PTSD, and Women's Issues.
*Request an Appointment Here https://attentocounseling.com/request-an-appointment/ *Attento Counseling is an outpatient behavioral health provider with 3 locations and over 60 licensed clinicians in the north Atlanta metro area (Marietta, Cumming, and Kennesaw). We also offer an affordable, accessible sliding-scale option for clients in need through our Mental Wellness & Emotional Learning program. Visit mwel.net for more information.
Our approach to therapy is dynamic and we specialize in a variety of issues including, ADHD, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, Dual Diagnosis, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Grief, Life Coaching, Marital & Premarital, Men's Issues, Peer Relationships, Transgender, Trauma & PTSD, and Women's Issues.
*Request an Appointment Here https://attentocounseling.com/request-an-appointment/ *Attento Counseling is an outpatient behavioral health provider with 3 locations and over 60 licensed clinicians in the north Atlanta metro area (Marietta, Cumming, and Kennesaw). We also offer an affordable, accessible sliding-scale option for clients in need through our Mental Wellness & Emotional Learning program. Visit mwel.net for more information.
(404) 383-6944 View (404) 383-6944
Photo of Daron Dominguez Elam - Summit's Edge Counseling, MS, NCC, LPC, CCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Summit's Edge Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CCH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
We are an Anti-Racist, Neuro-Diverse, Trans-Inclusive, LGBTQ+, and Gender, Sexual, & Romantic Minorities-Affirming practice. We are respectful of all cultures and exercise humility toward our client’s religious identities. We serve children (3+), teens, and adults, individuals, couples (all structures), families. We create treatment plans that utilize evidence-based treatments while considering the unique experiences and identifies of our clients. Our clients want to feel safe to explore their needs with a therapist that understands them.
We are an Anti-Racist, Neuro-Diverse, Trans-Inclusive, LGBTQ+, and Gender, Sexual, & Romantic Minorities-Affirming practice. We are respectful of all cultures and exercise humility toward our client’s religious identities. We serve children (3+), teens, and adults, individuals, couples (all structures), families. We create treatment plans that utilize evidence-based treatments while considering the unique experiences and identifies of our clients. Our clients want to feel safe to explore their needs with a therapist that understands them.
(404) 348-0715 View (404) 348-0715
Photo of Darrin D. Payne, MA, APC, BS Min
Darrin D. Payne
MA, APC, BS Min
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
He is LGBTQ+ and multiculturally informed.
Darrin is a licensed associate professional counselor under supervision trained to work with men, women, adolescents, couples and groups requiring professional help. He realizes that life produces internal storm damages occurring far too often without any damage control or prevention. The causes of moodiness, irritability, restlessness, discontentment, fear, doubt, uncertainty, anger, depression, anxiety, insomnia and addiction all have one thing in common - a lack of holistic wellness. Recovery from the internal/external effects of untreated mental and emotional damages is what he will introduce you to.
He is LGBTQ+ and multiculturally informed.
Darrin is a licensed associate professional counselor under supervision trained to work with men, women, adolescents, couples and groups requiring professional help. He realizes that life produces internal storm damages occurring far too often without any damage control or prevention. The causes of moodiness, irritability, restlessness, discontentment, fear, doubt, uncertainty, anger, depression, anxiety, insomnia and addiction all have one thing in common - a lack of holistic wellness. Recovery from the internal/external effects of untreated mental and emotional damages is what he will introduce you to.
(678) 263-2087 View (678) 263-2087
Photo of Jaslyn Bailey - Attento Counseling, LCSW, LMSW, G, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaslyn Bailey - Attento Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, G
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
With transparency she share’s: “I am perfectly imperfect.
Jaslyn Bailey, LCSW is the Founder of Journeying Beyond Measure, which provides therapeutic coaching virtually. Jaslyn’s therapeutic style provides support and counseling for clients to effectively address personal life challenges; combining scientifically proven modalities with mindfulness and holistic research offering a highly personalized approach for each client. Jaslyn provides tailored services for those identifying as Queer or Person of Color or Woman seeking coaching with a therapeutic touch as well as co-facilitates groups with Therapy for QPoC.
With transparency she share’s: “I am perfectly imperfect.
Jaslyn Bailey, LCSW is the Founder of Journeying Beyond Measure, which provides therapeutic coaching virtually. Jaslyn’s therapeutic style provides support and counseling for clients to effectively address personal life challenges; combining scientifically proven modalities with mindfulness and holistic research offering a highly personalized approach for each client. Jaslyn provides tailored services for those identifying as Queer or Person of Color or Woman seeking coaching with a therapeutic touch as well as co-facilitates groups with Therapy for QPoC.
(404) 882-6544 View (404) 882-6544
Photo of Sydney Christian, MEd, APC, Counselor
Sydney Christian
Counselor, MEd, APC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I incorporate intersectionality, inclusion, and equity to foster a therapeutic and healing environment for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), Queer and Trans ( LGBTQ+ ), and Neurodivergent individuals. I specialize in working with adult clients with marginalized identities and treating depression, anxiety, personality disorders, dissociative symptoms, and trauma and stressor-related disorders.
I incorporate intersectionality, inclusion, and equity to foster a therapeutic and healing environment for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), Queer and Trans ( LGBTQ+ ), and Neurodivergent individuals. I specialize in working with adult clients with marginalized identities and treating depression, anxiety, personality disorders, dissociative symptoms, and trauma and stressor-related disorders.
(470) 594-5615 View (470) 594-5615
Photo of Eliana Gross, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eliana Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I have experience with the LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders.
I believe therapy works best when the therapist and client work together to identify, understand, and work through the issues in their lives. I studied at Brenau University and am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with adolescents, teenagers, and young adults. I'm passionate about working with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. I believe in partnering with my clients to assist them in understanding their emotions and behaviors. I am trained in cognitive behavioral techniques, and I like to use creative interventions in addition to open dialogues in session to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all of my clients.
I have experience with the LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders.
I believe therapy works best when the therapist and client work together to identify, understand, and work through the issues in their lives. I studied at Brenau University and am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with adolescents, teenagers, and young adults. I'm passionate about working with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. I believe in partnering with my clients to assist them in understanding their emotions and behaviors. I am trained in cognitive behavioral techniques, and I like to use creative interventions in addition to open dialogues in session to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all of my clients.
(678) 722-8956 View (678) 722-8956
Photo of Valerie Diaz, MA, LPC-I, Pre-Licensed Professional
Valerie Diaz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I am dedicated to supporting those experiencing anxiety and depression brought on by various life transitions, especially post-partum women, those affected by immigration, and career/life-calling turning points.
If you're seeking a therapist, you're likely looking to make a significant change in your life. As a counselor, my role is to help you see what may be hidden from your current perspective—recognizing patterns in your thinking, addressing the pain from past experiences, and identifying opportunities for strength, resilience, and change. I work with individuals aged 14 and older facing challenges in accepting and being accepted for who they are and where they are in life. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and polyamory/non-monogamy friendly. I speak Spanish and am happy to serve the Latinx and Hispanic community.
I am dedicated to supporting those experiencing anxiety and depression brought on by various life transitions, especially post-partum women, those affected by immigration, and career/life-calling turning points.
If you're seeking a therapist, you're likely looking to make a significant change in your life. As a counselor, my role is to help you see what may be hidden from your current perspective—recognizing patterns in your thinking, addressing the pain from past experiences, and identifying opportunities for strength, resilience, and change. I work with individuals aged 14 and older facing challenges in accepting and being accepted for who they are and where they are in life. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and polyamory/non-monogamy friendly. I speak Spanish and am happy to serve the Latinx and Hispanic community.
(470) 412-9249 View (470) 412-9249
Photo of Christian Javier Carmona-Carlo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Javier Carmona-Carlo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067  (Online Only)
Along with HIV+ diagnoses, sexual health, BDSM, relationship/marriage problems, racial themes, LGBTQIA+ themes, neurodiversity, gender exploration, & cultural themes.
Let's get ready to start looking inward or to just stop feeling "tired of being sick and tired." I want to help you dig as deep as you need & to be your copilot. I will help with your navigation through all of your lives adventures whether in calm or treacherous waters. I have a long history with working with diverse and minority populations. There is nothing that can shake me & your mind will never scare me. I love transparency and directness so expect much of it from me. (Currently Only Offering Telehealth/Virtual/Video Sessions). I am on the Grow Therapy platform website for bookings.
Along with HIV+ diagnoses, sexual health, BDSM, relationship/marriage problems, racial themes, LGBTQIA+ themes, neurodiversity, gender exploration, & cultural themes.
Let's get ready to start looking inward or to just stop feeling "tired of being sick and tired." I want to help you dig as deep as you need & to be your copilot. I will help with your navigation through all of your lives adventures whether in calm or treacherous waters. I have a long history with working with diverse and minority populations. There is nothing that can shake me & your mind will never scare me. I love transparency and directness so expect much of it from me. (Currently Only Offering Telehealth/Virtual/Video Sessions). I am on the Grow Therapy platform website for bookings.
(678) 675-0904 View (678) 675-0904
Photo of Katie Barillas, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie Barillas
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
My ideal client is someone who is seeking a safe space to land where they can feel comforted, affirmed, and valued. I know your journey has been unique and nuanced, and I would love to become your trusted ally in healing as you learn how to construct a life you can truly enjoy. I look forward to helping you discover your personal values and beliefs so you are able to make more authentic and meaningful choices as you move forward with purpose and confidence. Together, we can work to cultivate a space within you where you can feel truly loved exactly as you are. Your vulnerability will never be taken for granted in the therapy room!
My ideal client is someone who is seeking a safe space to land where they can feel comforted, affirmed, and valued. I know your journey has been unique and nuanced, and I would love to become your trusted ally in healing as you learn how to construct a life you can truly enjoy. I look forward to helping you discover your personal values and beliefs so you are able to make more authentic and meaningful choices as you move forward with purpose and confidence. Together, we can work to cultivate a space within you where you can feel truly loved exactly as you are. Your vulnerability will never be taken for granted in the therapy room!
(678) 679-9563 View (678) 679-9563
Photo of Shelley Northrup, LPC, CPCS, EdS, MhS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelley Northrup
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, EdS, MhS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I typically work with adults ages 18-45 who struggle with anxiety disorders, religious trauma and faith deconstruction, self-esteem issues, trauma, and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor who is trauma-informed, strengths-focused and enjoys bringing humor and creativity into the therapy room. My aim is to create a supportive, open space where I work with clients collaboratively to create goals for treatment and empower clients towards living a life where they find meaning and purpose. I provide clients with skills towards accepting thoughts and emotions, learning how to manage challenging emotions, finding peace in the present moment, resolving trauma responses and difficult memories.
I typically work with adults ages 18-45 who struggle with anxiety disorders, religious trauma and faith deconstruction, self-esteem issues, trauma, and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor who is trauma-informed, strengths-focused and enjoys bringing humor and creativity into the therapy room. My aim is to create a supportive, open space where I work with clients collaboratively to create goals for treatment and empower clients towards living a life where they find meaning and purpose. I provide clients with skills towards accepting thoughts and emotions, learning how to manage challenging emotions, finding peace in the present moment, resolving trauma responses and difficult memories.
(404) 341-6591 View (404) 341-6591
Photo of Liesl Engelbrecht, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Liesl Engelbrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
Regardless of what brings you to counseling, my goal is to truly understand you as a human being and the unique perspectives, experiences, and identities that you bring into the room and how best to support and challenge you in your growth. You are the expert of your own life and my goal is to explore with you what your hope is for counseling and how I can help get you there. I view the therapeutic relationship as one of the most important factors in counseling and value a trusting, genuine relationship where clients feel comfortable providing feedback and collaborating on their counseling.
Regardless of what brings you to counseling, my goal is to truly understand you as a human being and the unique perspectives, experiences, and identities that you bring into the room and how best to support and challenge you in your growth. You are the expert of your own life and my goal is to explore with you what your hope is for counseling and how I can help get you there. I view the therapeutic relationship as one of the most important factors in counseling and value a trusting, genuine relationship where clients feel comfortable providing feedback and collaborating on their counseling.
(678) 722-8931 View (678) 722-8931
Photo of Brenda Jean-Baptiste - Coping & Healing Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Coping & Healing Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067  (Online Only)
Our experience enables us to offer effective client, individualized, psychotherapy care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples in-person or via secured telehealth technologies.
Our experience enables us to offer effective client, individualized, psychotherapy care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples in-person or via secured telehealth technologies.
(678) 647-7409 View (678) 647-7409
Photo of Robert Reynolds, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Robert Reynolds
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I specialize in supporting individuals through diverse challenges, including those related to identity, self-esteem, and life transitions.
My ideal client is anyone seeking a compassionate and affirming space where they can feel seen, heard, and valued. I recognize that your experiences are unique, and I am here to walk alongside you as a trusted ally on your path to healing. Together, we will explore your personal values, helping you make choices that feel authentic and meaningful. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe to be your true self. Your vulnerability is a gift, and in our sessions, it will be met with warmth, respect, and care as we work towards a life filled with joy and purpose.
I specialize in supporting individuals through diverse challenges, including those related to identity, self-esteem, and life transitions.
My ideal client is anyone seeking a compassionate and affirming space where they can feel seen, heard, and valued. I recognize that your experiences are unique, and I am here to walk alongside you as a trusted ally on your path to healing. Together, we will explore your personal values, helping you make choices that feel authentic and meaningful. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe to be your true self. Your vulnerability is a gift, and in our sessions, it will be met with warmth, respect, and care as we work towards a life filled with joy and purpose.
(470) 888-7388 View (470) 888-7388
Photo of Amy Burnett, LPC, NCC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Burnett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067  (Online Only)
I am a highly experienced therapist who is strongly committed to helping anyone who is struggling emotionally, in any way, find more peace and fulfillment in their life. My treatment focuses on helping you to identify and understand the causes of any anxiety, stress, depression, relationship, physical, or other issues you may be experiencing; in order to then help empower you with effective strategies that will harness your inner ability to heal and thrive.
I am a highly experienced therapist who is strongly committed to helping anyone who is struggling emotionally, in any way, find more peace and fulfillment in their life. My treatment focuses on helping you to identify and understand the causes of any anxiety, stress, depression, relationship, physical, or other issues you may be experiencing; in order to then help empower you with effective strategies that will harness your inner ability to heal and thrive.
(678) 568-7584 View (678) 568-7584
Photo of David Harris, MTS, MS
David Harris
MTS, MS
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
Tired of the same old problems, patterns, or prescriptions? Have you tried counseling and just wasn't satisfied? Want to try something different from traditional talk therapy? I specialize in helping individuals find and actually resolve the stuff that's in their way, focusing on solutions that are proven to WORK. Yes, I am trained in traditional counseling but prefer conducting my practice as a solution-focused, life-affirming professional coach. If you are ready for a change, let's explore your potential together Reserve a time today ONLINE at http://www.David-Harris-Coaching.com
Tired of the same old problems, patterns, or prescriptions? Have you tried counseling and just wasn't satisfied? Want to try something different from traditional talk therapy? I specialize in helping individuals find and actually resolve the stuff that's in their way, focusing on solutions that are proven to WORK. Yes, I am trained in traditional counseling but prefer conducting my practice as a solution-focused, life-affirming professional coach. If you are ready for a change, let's explore your potential together Reserve a time today ONLINE at http://www.David-Harris-Coaching.com
(678) 616-2104 View (678) 616-2104
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.