LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 53706

Photo of Jody Reiss, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jody Reiss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
Jody Reiss is a licensed psychotherapist who received her MS, LMFT from Edgewood College. In therapy, Jody uses an integrative perspective, including strength based, internal famly systems, psychodynamic, solution focused, humor, and play. She creates an atmosphere that is safe, supportive and non-judgemental. Jody has experience working collaboratively, with all ages from 5 through 84, all genders, the LGBTQ community, individuals, couples and families, on issues that include anxiety, depression, loss, self-esteem, body dysmorphia and trauma.
Jody Reiss is a licensed psychotherapist who received her MS, LMFT from Edgewood College. In therapy, Jody uses an integrative perspective, including strength based, internal famly systems, psychodynamic, solution focused, humor, and play. She creates an atmosphere that is safe, supportive and non-judgemental. Jody has experience working collaboratively, with all ages from 5 through 84, all genders, the LGBTQ community, individuals, couples and families, on issues that include anxiety, depression, loss, self-esteem, body dysmorphia and trauma.
(608) 686-6411 View (608) 686-6411
Photo of Katt Cochran, PhD, Psychologist
Katt Cochran
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53706
Let’s embark on a transformative journey toward self-discovery, resilience, and radical self-love.
We all struggle with navigating our lives at some time or another. Whether it be with who we are, relationships in our lives, day-to-day stress, or the compounding challenges of all of the above - we need help. As a licensed psychologist and non-binary, queer, liberation-focused therapist, I am dedicated to providing a transformative therapeutic experience that centers on your journey toward self-empowerment and joy. My practice is founded on the belief that every individual deserves a space where they can explore, heal, and thrive without fear of judgment or marginalization.
Let’s embark on a transformative journey toward self-discovery, resilience, and radical self-love.
We all struggle with navigating our lives at some time or another. Whether it be with who we are, relationships in our lives, day-to-day stress, or the compounding challenges of all of the above - we need help. As a licensed psychologist and non-binary, queer, liberation-focused therapist, I am dedicated to providing a transformative therapeutic experience that centers on your journey toward self-empowerment and joy. My practice is founded on the belief that every individual deserves a space where they can explore, heal, and thrive without fear of judgment or marginalization.
(414) 895-0025 View (414) 895-0025
Photo of Emily Erwin-Frank, MSW, APSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Erwin-Frank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
As a therapist, my approach is eclectic, informed by psychodynamic, humanistic, mindfulness-based and cognitive behavioral practices. I view each client's life as a constantly shifting ecosystem, and I believe that successful interventions are multifaceted. I strive to cultivate cultural humility in myself, and to help clients understand and re-craft personal narratives according to their values. In addition, I help clients to navigate romantic and family relationships as well as friendships. One of my primary goals as a therapist is to understand the unique and varied challenges of the LGBTQ community; being " LGBTQ friendly" is not enough.
As a therapist, my approach is eclectic, informed by psychodynamic, humanistic, mindfulness-based and cognitive behavioral practices. I view each client's life as a constantly shifting ecosystem, and I believe that successful interventions are multifaceted. I strive to cultivate cultural humility in myself, and to help clients understand and re-craft personal narratives according to their values. In addition, I help clients to navigate romantic and family relationships as well as friendships. One of my primary goals as a therapist is to understand the unique and varied challenges of the LGBTQ community; being " LGBTQ friendly" is not enough.
(608) 580-5718 View (608) 580-5718
Photo of Theron Edward Parsons IV, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theron Edward Parsons IV
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
I also provide a supportive, therapeutic environment for individuals who identify with the transgender and gender-variant community.
My name is Dr. Theron Parsons and I am an experienced, licensed clinical social worker who takes a supportive, sex-positive approach in working with individuals and couples seeking to improve intimacy and communication while empowering personal growth. I am a strong advocate and ally in meeting the common and unique needs of the LGBT community and their families. I have also spent a decade as a dedicated anti-violence counselor working with clients individually, and in groups, who are seeking to empower themselves through assertive non-violence in their social, professional, and intimate relationships.
I also provide a supportive, therapeutic environment for individuals who identify with the transgender and gender-variant community.
My name is Dr. Theron Parsons and I am an experienced, licensed clinical social worker who takes a supportive, sex-positive approach in working with individuals and couples seeking to improve intimacy and communication while empowering personal growth. I am a strong advocate and ally in meeting the common and unique needs of the LGBT community and their families. I have also spent a decade as a dedicated anti-violence counselor working with clients individually, and in groups, who are seeking to empower themselves through assertive non-violence in their social, professional, and intimate relationships.
(608) 231-3300 x226 View (608) 231-3300 x226
Photo of Cameron Lee Small, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Cameron Lee Small
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706  (Online Only)
I'm so thankful you're here! I'm Cam, trans-racially adopted from Korea, and it's my privilege to help adoptees, parents, and the ones who support them navigate the complexities of adoption through counseling, coaching, stories and education.
Please visit therapyredeemed.wordpress.com/about/ for more info & resources! Have you ever wondered about your adoption story? Has there ever been doubt, fear, anger, pain or confusion when it comes up? What’s it been like for you to process your personal experience of birth family, loss, grief, race, identity, or even those seemingly benign curiosities about your narrative that come up from time to time? For parents, of course you want to help your children as they embark on that path. This can often feel uncertain or overwhelming, with so many subtle nuances that feel way too complicated to handle without appropriate support.
I'm so thankful you're here! I'm Cam, trans-racially adopted from Korea, and it's my privilege to help adoptees, parents, and the ones who support them navigate the complexities of adoption through counseling, coaching, stories and education.
Please visit therapyredeemed.wordpress.com/about/ for more info & resources! Have you ever wondered about your adoption story? Has there ever been doubt, fear, anger, pain or confusion when it comes up? What’s it been like for you to process your personal experience of birth family, loss, grief, race, identity, or even those seemingly benign curiosities about your narrative that come up from time to time? For parents, of course you want to help your children as they embark on that path. This can often feel uncertain or overwhelming, with so many subtle nuances that feel way too complicated to handle without appropriate support.
(952) 333-4688 View (952) 333-4688
Photo of Alison Manley, LPC, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Manley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
Areas of clinical specialization include working with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image; mood and anxiety disorders; OCD; LGBTQIA+ issues; PTSD/CPTSD/trauma.
Ali Manley (she/her) is a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS). In therapy, Ali works hard to strike a balance between helping clients learn and use new skills, and gaining insight into past experiences. Ali strives to forge a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, supportive, and goal-orientated. She highly values authenticity and connection in the therapeutic relationship and encourages clients to be their true selves—both in and out of session. She is creative, nonjudgmental, and proud to be trauma-informed, queer-affirming/competent, trans-affirming/competent, sex-positive, and poly- and kink-friendly and knowledgable.
Areas of clinical specialization include working with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image; mood and anxiety disorders; OCD; LGBTQIA+ issues; PTSD/CPTSD/trauma.
Ali Manley (she/her) is a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS). In therapy, Ali works hard to strike a balance between helping clients learn and use new skills, and gaining insight into past experiences. Ali strives to forge a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, supportive, and goal-orientated. She highly values authenticity and connection in the therapeutic relationship and encourages clients to be their true selves—both in and out of session. She is creative, nonjudgmental, and proud to be trauma-informed, queer-affirming/competent, trans-affirming/competent, sex-positive, and poly- and kink-friendly and knowledgable.
(608) 299-4214 View (608) 299-4214
Photo of Stephanie R. Graham, PhD, Psychologist
Stephanie R. Graham
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
I have provided clinical services in a number of settings including college/university counseling centers, community mental health clinics, and in private practice. My own research and scholarly interests focus on LGBTQ issues, clinical supervision, supporting underrepresented college students, and current issues in training mental health clinicians. I am a generalist by training and work with clients with a variety of presenting concerns. I enjoy developing relationships with my clients in longer term therapy but often work within briefer treatments as well. I am flexible in my approach to help my clients achieve their goals.
I have provided clinical services in a number of settings including college/university counseling centers, community mental health clinics, and in private practice. My own research and scholarly interests focus on LGBTQ issues, clinical supervision, supporting underrepresented college students, and current issues in training mental health clinicians. I am a generalist by training and work with clients with a variety of presenting concerns. I enjoy developing relationships with my clients in longer term therapy but often work within briefer treatments as well. I am flexible in my approach to help my clients achieve their goals.
(608) 602-7707 View (608) 602-7707
Photo of Jessica Gutierrez, LCSW, CSAC, ICS, SEP-IT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, ICS, SEP-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53706  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi I'm Jessica! I'm a somatic and IFS-oriented therapist in Madison, WI with over 18 years of experience. My primary specialties are anxiety, panic, trauma, chronic pain as well as supporting those who have difficulties with relationships, communication, self-esteem, boundaries and identity. Other focus areas: life transitions, secondary trauma, chronic stress, burnout, parenting and ADHD. I have a special interest in working with young adults, women, BIPOC, immigrants of color, LGBTQIA+ as well as highly sensitive, intuitive and/or creative people.
Hi I'm Jessica! I'm a somatic and IFS-oriented therapist in Madison, WI with over 18 years of experience. My primary specialties are anxiety, panic, trauma, chronic pain as well as supporting those who have difficulties with relationships, communication, self-esteem, boundaries and identity. Other focus areas: life transitions, secondary trauma, chronic stress, burnout, parenting and ADHD. I have a special interest in working with young adults, women, BIPOC, immigrants of color, LGBTQIA+ as well as highly sensitive, intuitive and/or creative people.
(608) 938-8567 View (608) 938-8567
Photo of Jennifer Limmex, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Limmex
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53706
Jennifer Limmex is a psychotherapist who graduated with her Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from University of Wisconsin "“ Whitewater. She carries two licenses in the State of Wisconsin which are for Professional Counseling and Clinical Substance Abuse Counseling and also has a CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional) certification. Her experience in working with addiction and trauma inevitably leads her to focus on shame, anxiety, and depression since they are quite often co-occurring disorders. Jennifer utilizes Acceptance & Commitment Therapy to facilitate a majority of her sessions.
Jennifer Limmex is a psychotherapist who graduated with her Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from University of Wisconsin "“ Whitewater. She carries two licenses in the State of Wisconsin which are for Professional Counseling and Clinical Substance Abuse Counseling and also has a CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional) certification. Her experience in working with addiction and trauma inevitably leads her to focus on shame, anxiety, and depression since they are quite often co-occurring disorders. Jennifer utilizes Acceptance & Commitment Therapy to facilitate a majority of her sessions.
(608) 618-2315 View (608) 618-2315
Photo of Vivian Tamkin, LP, Psychologist
Vivian Tamkin
Psychologist, LP
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
Vivian L. Tamkin, PhD is a licensed psychologist (CA and WI), who has been practicing child and family psychotherapy since 2002. Dr. Tamkin has a PhD in Counseling Psychology, with a minor in Child Clinical Psychology, from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, and an MA degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Oaks College and Children's School. Dr. Tamkin also has a BA degree in Child Development, with an emphasis in Child Mental Health from California State University, Northridge. Go Matadors! Dr. Tamkin's theoretical approach to clinical practice is rooted in a relational, life course lens.
Vivian L. Tamkin, PhD is a licensed psychologist (CA and WI), who has been practicing child and family psychotherapy since 2002. Dr. Tamkin has a PhD in Counseling Psychology, with a minor in Child Clinical Psychology, from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, and an MA degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Oaks College and Children's School. Dr. Tamkin also has a BA degree in Child Development, with an emphasis in Child Mental Health from California State University, Northridge. Go Matadors! Dr. Tamkin's theoretical approach to clinical practice is rooted in a relational, life course lens.
(608) 557-8762 View (608) 557-8762
Photo of Tom McBride, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tom McBride
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, Tom focuses on how family systems function and shape us. This allows clients to explore concerns on an individual level as well as discover how interactions with others may be affecting them. With a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Bachelor's in Art Therapy from Edgewood College in Madison, WI, he is able to provide clients with a wide range of therapeutic tools from the traditional to the creative. He is dedicated to client care and has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. Tom has spent several years working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, Tom focuses on how family systems function and shape us. This allows clients to explore concerns on an individual level as well as discover how interactions with others may be affecting them. With a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Bachelor's in Art Therapy from Edgewood College in Madison, WI, he is able to provide clients with a wide range of therapeutic tools from the traditional to the creative. He is dedicated to client care and has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. Tom has spent several years working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
(608) 909-6584 View (608) 909-6584
Photo of Kevin Davies, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin Davies
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
Kevin is passionate about working with people with a wide range of concerns, including identity development, sexuality, life transitions, relationships, mood disorders, social injustice and discrimination, loss, and chronic conditions.
Kevin uses a collaborative and flexible approach in his work with clients of all backgrounds. His attitude of warmth and non judgement, deliberate attention to the present moment, and familiarity with effective treatment models invites you to open up to your experience in order to pursue what truly matters to you. Kevin has worked with teens, adults, and couples in a variety of settings throughout his career. His experience in crisis management and community-based programs helps him stand with clients during struggles and triumphs with an open heart.
Kevin is passionate about working with people with a wide range of concerns, including identity development, sexuality, life transitions, relationships, mood disorders, social injustice and discrimination, loss, and chronic conditions.
Kevin uses a collaborative and flexible approach in his work with clients of all backgrounds. His attitude of warmth and non judgement, deliberate attention to the present moment, and familiarity with effective treatment models invites you to open up to your experience in order to pursue what truly matters to you. Kevin has worked with teens, adults, and couples in a variety of settings throughout his career. His experience in crisis management and community-based programs helps him stand with clients during struggles and triumphs with an open heart.
(608) 336-4460 View (608) 336-4460
Photo of Elizabeth Schrimpf, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Schrimpf
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
A graduate of Lakeland College in Sheboygan, WI, Elizabeth Schrimpf, LPC has worked in a variety of counseling settings since 2014. As a therapist, Elizabeth is skilled in helping teens and adults process and adapt to significant life changes such as grief, religious trauma recovery / deconstruction, job loss, divorce and other changes to family situations. Her clinical experience focuses on treating the anxiety and depression that come with these changes and she uses a holistic, trauma-informed approach to support her clients in learning to build the life they want. I
A graduate of Lakeland College in Sheboygan, WI, Elizabeth Schrimpf, LPC has worked in a variety of counseling settings since 2014. As a therapist, Elizabeth is skilled in helping teens and adults process and adapt to significant life changes such as grief, religious trauma recovery / deconstruction, job loss, divorce and other changes to family situations. Her clinical experience focuses on treating the anxiety and depression that come with these changes and she uses a holistic, trauma-informed approach to support her clients in learning to build the life they want. I
(608) 200-5433 View (608) 200-5433
Photo of Petrovnia Charles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Petrovnia Charles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
Petrovnia Charles is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2014. Petrovnia helps clients by being trauma-trained with a focus on intersectionalities. Outside of work, Petrovnia enjoys gardening, line dancing, writing poetry, cooking, playing piano, and American Sign Language (ASL).
Petrovnia Charles is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2014. Petrovnia helps clients by being trauma-trained with a focus on intersectionalities. Outside of work, Petrovnia enjoys gardening, line dancing, writing poetry, cooking, playing piano, and American Sign Language (ASL).
(608) 496-9400 View (608) 496-9400
Photo of Amy Weidert, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Weidert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
Amy Weidert is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2007. She completed her Undergraduate work at UW Madison in Sociology and received her Graduate Degree in Counseling from UW Whitewater. Amy has 16 years of experience working as a school counselor with middle and high school students and uses Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness techniques, and psychoeducation to help students understand themselves better, work through trauma, and support them in reaching their personal goals.
Amy Weidert is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2007. She completed her Undergraduate work at UW Madison in Sociology and received her Graduate Degree in Counseling from UW Whitewater. Amy has 16 years of experience working as a school counselor with middle and high school students and uses Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness techniques, and psychoeducation to help students understand themselves better, work through trauma, and support them in reaching their personal goals.
(608) 200-4500 View (608) 200-4500
Photo of Samuel Annis, MFT-IT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samuel Annis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT-IT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
Sam (he/they), a transplant from New Jersey, is a recent graduate from Edgewood College's Marriage and Family Therapy program. Sam works with a wide variety of clients and concerns, with a particular emphasis on trauma (be it personal, intergenerational/familial, or cultural), identity, spirituality, death & dying, grief, family systems, and the ways in which our lives are impacted by the larger social systems and institutions around us. Sam is also engaged in understanding his own situatedness within these systems and their foundations in racism, sexism, capitalism, patriarchy, heteronormitivity, abilism, and phobias of all sorts.
Sam (he/they), a transplant from New Jersey, is a recent graduate from Edgewood College's Marriage and Family Therapy program. Sam works with a wide variety of clients and concerns, with a particular emphasis on trauma (be it personal, intergenerational/familial, or cultural), identity, spirituality, death & dying, grief, family systems, and the ways in which our lives are impacted by the larger social systems and institutions around us. Sam is also engaged in understanding his own situatedness within these systems and their foundations in racism, sexism, capitalism, patriarchy, heteronormitivity, abilism, and phobias of all sorts.
(608) 802-7592 View (608) 802-7592
Photo of Linnea Cochran, LPC-I, Pre-Licensed Professional
Linnea Cochran
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-I
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
Welcome! I’m excited to begin your counseling journey with you. I work with adults across the lifespan and am especially drawn towards working with young adults, college students, and adults navigating life transitions. My areas of clinical interest include anxiety, depression, disordered eating, Autism, ADHD, and self-esteem/identity. Whether this is your first experience with therapy, or you have sought counseling for many years, I will tailor my counseling approach to meet you where you’re at. My hope is that our work together can be collaborative, creative, and tuned in to what you need most in this moment.
Welcome! I’m excited to begin your counseling journey with you. I work with adults across the lifespan and am especially drawn towards working with young adults, college students, and adults navigating life transitions. My areas of clinical interest include anxiety, depression, disordered eating, Autism, ADHD, and self-esteem/identity. Whether this is your first experience with therapy, or you have sought counseling for many years, I will tailor my counseling approach to meet you where you’re at. My hope is that our work together can be collaborative, creative, and tuned in to what you need most in this moment.
(608) 795-3919 View (608) 795-3919
Photo of Erik Kallio, LPC-IT, Counselor
Erik Kallio
Counselor, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
Warm greetings to you, neighbor. I imagine looking for a counselor is not how you want to be spending your time right now. You would rather be using your skills and superpowers. Whether it's stress from work, challenges in relationships, or that critical inner voice holding you back, you’re not alone—and change is possible. My ideal client is ready to break free from the overwhelm and envision a future that aligns with their true values.
Warm greetings to you, neighbor. I imagine looking for a counselor is not how you want to be spending your time right now. You would rather be using your skills and superpowers. Whether it's stress from work, challenges in relationships, or that critical inner voice holding you back, you’re not alone—and change is possible. My ideal client is ready to break free from the overwhelm and envision a future that aligns with their true values.
(920) 768-6086 View (920) 768-6086
Edelweiss Behavioral Health LLC
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706
Our goal at Edelweiss Behavioral Health is to provide specialized treatment to individuals struggling with Eating Disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders. We provide group therapy and individual therapy. We are now also offering medication management! Our experienced staff works collaboratively with each client to provide patient centered, individualized support to encourage recovery goals. Please note, we do see individuals with any mental health struggles, however we only do Intensive Outpatient Treatment (group therapy) for those struggling with Eating Disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
Our goal at Edelweiss Behavioral Health is to provide specialized treatment to individuals struggling with Eating Disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders. We provide group therapy and individual therapy. We are now also offering medication management! Our experienced staff works collaboratively with each client to provide patient centered, individualized support to encourage recovery goals. Please note, we do see individuals with any mental health struggles, however we only do Intensive Outpatient Treatment (group therapy) for those struggling with Eating Disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
(608) 360-9805 View (608) 360-9805
Photo of Maryliz Murphy, MSW, CAPSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maryliz Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CAPSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53706
I believe in each one of us is the ability to find joy, peace and meaning in life. Sometimes we need guidance in figuring things out, working through difficulties or developing coping strategies. Using evidence based practices, I can help guide you in moving forward in life. Specializing in trauma and couples therapy I hold certifications in EMDR Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Integrative Behavorial Couple Therapy (IBCT) and trained as Gottman Institute 7 Principles for Highly Effective Marriages Workshop Leader and CBT Insomnia to address sleep issues.
I believe in each one of us is the ability to find joy, peace and meaning in life. Sometimes we need guidance in figuring things out, working through difficulties or developing coping strategies. Using evidence based practices, I can help guide you in moving forward in life. Specializing in trauma and couples therapy I hold certifications in EMDR Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Integrative Behavorial Couple Therapy (IBCT) and trained as Gottman Institute 7 Principles for Highly Effective Marriages Workshop Leader and CBT Insomnia to address sleep issues.
(608) 719-3665 View (608) 719-3665
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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.