LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 85206

Photo of Monique A Mort - Phoenix Horizon Wellness Center, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Phoenix Horizon Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
We have a passion for serving those who identify as LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and individuals seeking Gender-affirming or Poly affirming care.
Hello! We are a team of dedicated clinicians who focus on helping people struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression and mood disorders. We offer a heightened specialty exploring racial trauma, family/relational problems, LGBTQ+ issues and ENM(ethical non-monogamy), Autism, and ADHD. We provide services for Individuals, Couples and Families.
We have a passion for serving those who identify as LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and individuals seeking Gender-affirming or Poly affirming care.
Hello! We are a team of dedicated clinicians who focus on helping people struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression and mood disorders. We offer a heightened specialty exploring racial trauma, family/relational problems, LGBTQ+ issues and ENM(ethical non-monogamy), Autism, and ADHD. We provide services for Individuals, Couples and Families.
(928) 482-3709 View (928) 482-3709
Photo of Alyssa Probert, MSW
Alyssa Probert
MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
I specialize in supporting the LGBTQ+ community and have extensive training in working with LGBTQ+ individuals.
Do you struggle with exploring your identity, relationships, mood, or self-esteem? You're not alone. Many individuals face these challenges, and I'm here to help. Together, we can delve into these issues and work towards your personal goals. Using a strengths-based and cognitive behavioral approach, I am dedicated to helping you achieve a healthier mindset and lifestyle.
I specialize in supporting the LGBTQ+ community and have extensive training in working with LGBTQ+ individuals.
Do you struggle with exploring your identity, relationships, mood, or self-esteem? You're not alone. Many individuals face these challenges, and I'm here to help. Together, we can delve into these issues and work towards your personal goals. Using a strengths-based and cognitive behavioral approach, I am dedicated to helping you achieve a healthier mindset and lifestyle.
(480) 571-7791 View (480) 571-7791
Photo of Kate Abravaya, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Kate Abravaya
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for visiting my page! I work with adult clients who are seeking OCD treatment, LGBTQ+/gender affirming care, improvement in their relationships, and those who are generally seeking support in navigating the seasons of life. If you are hoping to improve your emotional well-being, gain tools and skills to better manage your mental health, and want an accepting space to explore your thoughts and feelings, you're in the right place.
Thank you for visiting my page! I work with adult clients who are seeking OCD treatment, LGBTQ+/gender affirming care, improvement in their relationships, and those who are generally seeking support in navigating the seasons of life. If you are hoping to improve your emotional well-being, gain tools and skills to better manage your mental health, and want an accepting space to explore your thoughts and feelings, you're in the right place.
(928) 227-8705 View (928) 227-8705
Photo of Monique Mort, MCC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monique Mort
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
I have a passion for serving those who identify as LGBTQ+, POC, and persons seeking Gender-affirming or Poly affirming care.
Hello, I'm Monique Mort (She/Her), and I'm a licensed therapist who is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all. My focus is on helping those struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, racial trauma, family/relational problems, and ethical non-monogamy. I provide services for Individuals, Couples and Families. I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have been practicing therapy for over 15 years.
I have a passion for serving those who identify as LGBTQ+, POC, and persons seeking Gender-affirming or Poly affirming care.
Hello, I'm Monique Mort (She/Her), and I'm a licensed therapist who is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all. My focus is on helping those struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, racial trauma, family/relational problems, and ethical non-monogamy. I provide services for Individuals, Couples and Families. I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have been practicing therapy for over 15 years.
(602) 536-8961 View (602) 536-8961
Photo of Fernando Rodriguez, MC, LAC, Counselor
Fernando Rodriguez
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
As well as affirming care and trauma therapy for those dealing with issues regarding sexuality identity- specifically with LGBTQIA+ populations.
Having a safe space to turn off the outside noise and focus on the things that matter in your life can be near impossible in today’s fast-paced world. We often come to sessions with overwhelming feelings and behaviors that keep us from feeling our best and making life a struggle. It’s so important to give yourself a break and, at the same time, learn new skills that help you cope with your life. I collaborate with you to create a plan to help you reach your mental health goals. Having someone who can be there through some
As well as affirming care and trauma therapy for those dealing with issues regarding sexuality identity- specifically with LGBTQIA+ populations.
Having a safe space to turn off the outside noise and focus on the things that matter in your life can be near impossible in today’s fast-paced world. We often come to sessions with overwhelming feelings and behaviors that keep us from feeling our best and making life a struggle. It’s so important to give yourself a break and, at the same time, learn new skills that help you cope with your life. I collaborate with you to create a plan to help you reach your mental health goals. Having someone who can be there through some
(623) 303-8473 View (623) 303-8473
Photo of Ashtyn Bernard, MC, LAC, Counselor
Ashtyn Bernard
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
With a compassionate and open-minded approach, along with the powerful techniques of EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and inclusive care for the LGBTQIA+ community, I am confident in my ability to guide you through any challenges and lead you towards a journey of self-discovery and recovery.
I know it can feel isolating to deal with personal struggles, making the road to healing seem like a long and lonely one. My goal is to support you in developing the tools necessary to grow through these challenges. It is important to me that your experience is tailored to your unique needs. You deserve to be seen and heard!
With a compassionate and open-minded approach, along with the powerful techniques of EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and inclusive care for the LGBTQIA+ community, I am confident in my ability to guide you through any challenges and lead you towards a journey of self-discovery and recovery.
I know it can feel isolating to deal with personal struggles, making the road to healing seem like a long and lonely one. My goal is to support you in developing the tools necessary to grow through these challenges. It is important to me that your experience is tailored to your unique needs. You deserve to be seen and heard!
(928) 628-6086 View (928) 628-6086
Photo of Becca Colvin, MA, LAC, Counselor
Becca Colvin
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
We aspire to cultivate a life filled with love and self-compassion, empowering you with the confidence to navigate life's challenges. During times of mental health struggles, it's common to feel isolated, yet we can work together to illuminate a path forward. I specialize in working with adults, the LGBTQ+ community, and neurodiverse individuals seeking support with issues like depression, anxiety, relationships, boundaries, trauma, and life balance. Let's reshape your narrative, putting you back in control and creating the life you envision!
We aspire to cultivate a life filled with love and self-compassion, empowering you with the confidence to navigate life's challenges. During times of mental health struggles, it's common to feel isolated, yet we can work together to illuminate a path forward. I specialize in working with adults, the LGBTQ+ community, and neurodiverse individuals seeking support with issues like depression, anxiety, relationships, boundaries, trauma, and life balance. Let's reshape your narrative, putting you back in control and creating the life you envision!
(480) 526-5948 View (480) 526-5948
Photo of Araceli Olmos, LAC, Counselor
Araceli Olmos
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
In my professional practice, I've provided support to individuals grappling with a diverse range of challenges, including eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, gender, transitioning, sexuality concerns, borderline personality disorder (BPD), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Drawing upon my personal journey, I intimately understand the overwhelming and isolating nature of our internal struggles. Yet, I firmly believe that life doesn't have to be overshadowed by fear and loneliness. What if we viewed life's challenges as opportunities for profound growth and understanding? What if we discarded societal labels, embracing ourselves with unwavering acceptance and kindness? My passion lies in guiding individuals away from the clutches of suffering and towards the inherent beauty that exists within our lives.
In my professional practice, I've provided support to individuals grappling with a diverse range of challenges, including eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, gender, transitioning, sexuality concerns, borderline personality disorder (BPD), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Drawing upon my personal journey, I intimately understand the overwhelming and isolating nature of our internal struggles. Yet, I firmly believe that life doesn't have to be overshadowed by fear and loneliness. What if we viewed life's challenges as opportunities for profound growth and understanding? What if we discarded societal labels, embracing ourselves with unwavering acceptance and kindness? My passion lies in guiding individuals away from the clutches of suffering and towards the inherent beauty that exists within our lives.
(602) 922-8707 View (602) 922-8707
Photo of Richard O. Berg, LMSW
Richard O. Berg
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
As part of the LGBTQIA+ community I offer a safe and effective place to work on your goals to improve your life.
I specialize in supporting individuals and families of diverse backgrounds by providing a safe and affirming space to explore feelings related to relationships, mental health challenges, trauma, anxiety and depression, navigating societal challenges, sexual and gender identity and more. I work collaboratively with clients to develop coping mechanisms and skills, enhance self-esteem and self-worth, and foster an improved sense of health and well-being.
As part of the LGBTQIA+ community I offer a safe and effective place to work on your goals to improve your life.
I specialize in supporting individuals and families of diverse backgrounds by providing a safe and affirming space to explore feelings related to relationships, mental health challenges, trauma, anxiety and depression, navigating societal challenges, sexual and gender identity and more. I work collaboratively with clients to develop coping mechanisms and skills, enhance self-esteem and self-worth, and foster an improved sense of health and well-being.
(602) 805-4100 View (602) 805-4100
Photo of Heidi Crane, Counselor
Heidi Crane
Counselor
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and have training in working with adults who have depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, PTSD, codependency, relationship issues, stress related issues, and in working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
I know that you want to feel a sense of peace, purpose, and joy in your life, and to overcome the struggles that have held you back from reaching your true potential. My goal is to show up for you when you may not be able to show up for yourself, to support you in a non-judgmental and empathetic way, and to help you realize your strengths and capacity for change. You might feel hopeless, stuck, or lost, but you have already taken the first step by seeking out a therapist, and together we can build on that momentum. We all deserve compassion, support, and the space to heal. You are worthy and capable of having a fulfilling life!
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and have training in working with adults who have depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, PTSD, codependency, relationship issues, stress related issues, and in working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
I know that you want to feel a sense of peace, purpose, and joy in your life, and to overcome the struggles that have held you back from reaching your true potential. My goal is to show up for you when you may not be able to show up for yourself, to support you in a non-judgmental and empathetic way, and to help you realize your strengths and capacity for change. You might feel hopeless, stuck, or lost, but you have already taken the first step by seeking out a therapist, and together we can build on that momentum. We all deserve compassion, support, and the space to heal. You are worthy and capable of having a fulfilling life!
(480) 841-9757 x1 View (480) 841-9757 x1
Photo of Mara Hofmann, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mara Hofmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206  (Online Only)
I have advanced training and certification in working with LGBTQ+.
Accepting New Clients. Hello! It takes bravery and strength to recognize you need support and to take those steps to begin therapy. It would be my privilege to come alongside you, offering encouragement and support. I have been practicing counseling for over 18 years. My passion is working with teenagers and adults. I specialize in helping with depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, ADHD, anger, self-esteem, peer and family relationships, social skills, stress, boundaries, parenting, gender identity and sexual orientation, work and school challenges and life changes.
I have advanced training and certification in working with LGBTQ+.
Accepting New Clients. Hello! It takes bravery and strength to recognize you need support and to take those steps to begin therapy. It would be my privilege to come alongside you, offering encouragement and support. I have been practicing counseling for over 18 years. My passion is working with teenagers and adults. I specialize in helping with depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, ADHD, anger, self-esteem, peer and family relationships, social skills, stress, boundaries, parenting, gender identity and sexual orientation, work and school challenges and life changes.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
Photo of Bethany Gardner-Blue, MAS-MFT, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bethany Gardner-Blue
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAS-MFT, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you're exploring ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQ+ identities, or undergoing transitions, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
Step into my therapy space, kick back, and let's keep it real. No need for filters or holding back here – I'm all about authenticity, F-Bombs included. My approach? Direct, yet filled with empathy, creating a safe haven for you to open up and be truly honest. No two people are alike, so forget about those one-size-fits-all approaches. Let's dive deep into what makes yours unique and work through any roadblocks together.
Whether you're exploring ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQ+ identities, or undergoing transitions, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
Step into my therapy space, kick back, and let's keep it real. No need for filters or holding back here – I'm all about authenticity, F-Bombs included. My approach? Direct, yet filled with empathy, creating a safe haven for you to open up and be truly honest. No two people are alike, so forget about those one-size-fits-all approaches. Let's dive deep into what makes yours unique and work through any roadblocks together.
(480) 568-2229 View (480) 568-2229
Photo of Kristine Anne Godinez, MC, LPC, Counselor
Kristine Anne Godinez
Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206  (Online Only)
Individual, LGBTQ, Grief, Substance Abuse, PTSD, General Counseling.
My name is Kris Godinez, LPC. Counseling is a journey a journey that can and frankly should have a healthy dose of humor in it! If you are looking for one of those "blank screen" counselors that do and say. nothing, I'm not that kind of counselor. Yes counseling is serious business, but it does not have to be dull. I find that when people are laughing and learning they tend to retain what they have learned. I use CBT and a lot of humor! I also tend to swear like a sailor so if that is a problem, let me know and I will try not to drop the F bomb so much!
Individual, LGBTQ, Grief, Substance Abuse, PTSD, General Counseling.
My name is Kris Godinez, LPC. Counseling is a journey a journey that can and frankly should have a healthy dose of humor in it! If you are looking for one of those "blank screen" counselors that do and say. nothing, I'm not that kind of counselor. Yes counseling is serious business, but it does not have to be dull. I find that when people are laughing and learning they tend to retain what they have learned. I use CBT and a lot of humor! I also tend to swear like a sailor so if that is a problem, let me know and I will try not to drop the F bomb so much!
(480) 442-6903 View (480) 442-6903
Photo of Jessica Lama, LPC, NCC, DBTC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Lama
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, DBTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
I have a desire to create a solution focused and person centered natural and holistic approach to therapy. I am dedicated to developing meaningful partnerships with individuals and families in order to provide a personalized journey towards emotional wellness. Additionally, I am a proud ally to the LGBTQ+ community and offer Gender Affirming Surgery ( transition surgery) and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) evaluation and letter writing services, following the WPath standards of care and using the Gender ASSET evaluation tool.
I have a desire to create a solution focused and person centered natural and holistic approach to therapy. I am dedicated to developing meaningful partnerships with individuals and families in order to provide a personalized journey towards emotional wellness. Additionally, I am a proud ally to the LGBTQ+ community and offer Gender Affirming Surgery ( transition surgery) and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) evaluation and letter writing services, following the WPath standards of care and using the Gender ASSET evaluation tool.
(480) 418-4322 View (480) 418-4322
Photo of Diana Canfield, MSc, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Canfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
My practice is allied and informed to provide best practice therapy to the LGBTQIA+ community.
Accepting Arizona clients in person and telehealth. Accepting Idaho clients via telehealth only. I have a passion for assisting people in discovering the power they have within themselves to navigate through difficult times and to heal unresolved trauma. My accepting and nonjudgmental attitude allows clients to feel comfortable being authentic. It would be my honor to guide you in your journey to achieve healing and balance.
My practice is allied and informed to provide best practice therapy to the LGBTQIA+ community.
Accepting Arizona clients in person and telehealth. Accepting Idaho clients via telehealth only. I have a passion for assisting people in discovering the power they have within themselves to navigate through difficult times and to heal unresolved trauma. My accepting and nonjudgmental attitude allows clients to feel comfortable being authentic. It would be my honor to guide you in your journey to achieve healing and balance.
(602) 610-4325 View (602) 610-4325
Photo of Alecia Carpenter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alecia Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
I have a passion for working with survivors of all forms of abuse and neglect, marriage and divorce, LGBTQ related issues, grief and child loss, and anxiety and depression.
I am now accepting new clients! I know the decision to seek therapy is sometimes difficult. It is important to find someone who feels safe and supportive. I work to provide a supportive, confidential, environment in which I work together with my clients toward their goals. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children. I have worked extensively in the areas of trauma, abuse, domestic violence, divorce, blended families, anxiety and depression, and grief. I work with marriages, individuals, and families. I believe that healing is real and achievable!
I have a passion for working with survivors of all forms of abuse and neglect, marriage and divorce, LGBTQ related issues, grief and child loss, and anxiety and depression.
I am now accepting new clients! I know the decision to seek therapy is sometimes difficult. It is important to find someone who feels safe and supportive. I work to provide a supportive, confidential, environment in which I work together with my clients toward their goals. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children. I have worked extensively in the areas of trauma, abuse, domestic violence, divorce, blended families, anxiety and depression, and grief. I work with marriages, individuals, and families. I believe that healing is real and achievable!
(480) 378-7121 View (480) 378-7121
Photo of Michaela Hurtado, LMSW
Michaela Hurtado
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
Accepting New Clients. Hello! I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults experiencing an eating disorder, poor body image, depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, low self-esteem, anger, peer and family challenges, boundary challenges, co-dependency, stress, and life transitions. I utilize multiple approaches in my work, such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, internal family systems, family therapy, art therapy, prompted journaling, psychoeducation, and mindfulness. I am a LGBTQIA ally.
Accepting New Clients. Hello! I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults experiencing an eating disorder, poor body image, depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, low self-esteem, anger, peer and family challenges, boundary challenges, co-dependency, stress, and life transitions. I utilize multiple approaches in my work, such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, internal family systems, family therapy, art therapy, prompted journaling, psychoeducation, and mindfulness. I am a LGBTQIA ally.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
Photo of Yasmin Kazemi, LAC, Counselor
Yasmin Kazemi
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
One crucial part of the therapeutic process is having a strong connection. My focus is to provide a calming, safe, and comfortable environment for my clients to feel understood and not judged, to explore more about themselves throughout their therapeutic journey. Everyone has their own unique story and I strive to help you heal and allow for you to share your story the way YOU want to. I hope to offer the comfortability in being able to work towards your goals and enhancing the quality of life for yourself. I have experience working with adults, with a trauma focused & informed approach, targeting depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
One crucial part of the therapeutic process is having a strong connection. My focus is to provide a calming, safe, and comfortable environment for my clients to feel understood and not judged, to explore more about themselves throughout their therapeutic journey. Everyone has their own unique story and I strive to help you heal and allow for you to share your story the way YOU want to. I hope to offer the comfortability in being able to work towards your goals and enhancing the quality of life for yourself. I have experience working with adults, with a trauma focused & informed approach, targeting depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
(480) 908-9538 View (480) 908-9538
Photo of Rehema Boyes, LPC, Counselor
Rehema Boyes
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, LGBTIA+ allied, polyamorous friendly, kink friendly, and sex positive.
Are certain emotions holding you back from being your true self? Maybe fear, anger, shame, or sometimes even joy are becoming unbearable. I work to help people become comfortable with their emotions, be better able to live by their true values, and to find peace within themselves. I am grateful to have worked with individuals of all types including individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, sexuality, interpersonal conflict, and phase of life concerns.
I am trained in EMDR, LGBTIA+ allied, polyamorous friendly, kink friendly, and sex positive.
Are certain emotions holding you back from being your true self? Maybe fear, anger, shame, or sometimes even joy are becoming unbearable. I work to help people become comfortable with their emotions, be better able to live by their true values, and to find peace within themselves. I am grateful to have worked with individuals of all types including individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, sexuality, interpersonal conflict, and phase of life concerns.
(480) 360-5593 View (480) 360-5593
Photo of Kristy Lynn Theilen, MA, LAC, Counselor
Kristy Lynn Theilen
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with all types of people, all ages and diversity of relationships and family structures. I believe in a collaborative process where you can be your authentic self and together we can find the path to your healing. My internship experiences were with youth K-12 in a school setting and college students via telehealth. I’m trained in Trauma focused- cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) for youth and currently training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I am receiving direct clinical supervision from AZBBHE approved Diana Canfield, M.S., LPC.
I enjoy working with all types of people, all ages and diversity of relationships and family structures. I believe in a collaborative process where you can be your authentic self and together we can find the path to your healing. My internship experiences were with youth K-12 in a school setting and college students via telehealth. I’m trained in Trauma focused- cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) for youth and currently training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I am receiving direct clinical supervision from AZBBHE approved Diana Canfield, M.S., LPC.
(623) 294-5935 View (623) 294-5935
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.