Photo of Denise Maratos, PhD, EdM, Pre-Licensed Professional
Denise Maratos
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, EdM
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I enjoy working with clients of all ages on life transitions, personal growth, healing, and transformation.
Do you need support finding your life’s purpose? Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you find it difficult to feel pain and face your shadows? While considering the whole person- heart, soul, mind and body, I trust that you enter therapy having the insight you need to navigate your distress. I use the term "depth emergence" to explain my orientation and approach. It stems from depth psychology, which emphasizes gaining access to the unconscious and bringing it into consciousness. While increasing awareness we derive meaning, evolve, and transform.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages on life transitions, personal growth, healing, and transformation.
Do you need support finding your life’s purpose? Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you find it difficult to feel pain and face your shadows? While considering the whole person- heart, soul, mind and body, I trust that you enter therapy having the insight you need to navigate your distress. I use the term "depth emergence" to explain my orientation and approach. It stems from depth psychology, which emphasizes gaining access to the unconscious and bringing it into consciousness. While increasing awareness we derive meaning, evolve, and transform.
(323) 347-3849 View (323) 347-3849
Photo of Kristen Welke, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristen Welke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Whether a client is grappling with anger, depression, anxiety, substance-related concerns, identity issues, grief/loss, LGBTQIA-specific topics, or relationship issues, I am here to collaboratively address and support my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals.
Life can be really hard and oftentimes we need additional support. I love working with individuals through life's transitions and challenges. A belief and dedication to growth, resilience, and well-being, I prioritize trauma-informed care and social justice in my practice. I emphasize authenticity and genuine connections by integrating empathy, creativity, and humor into sessions using Gestalt Therapy. Whether guiding teens or adults through various life’s transitions or focusing on improving a client’s mental well-being, my approach remains culturally conscious and sensitive to individual experiences in the broader societal context
Whether a client is grappling with anger, depression, anxiety, substance-related concerns, identity issues, grief/loss, LGBTQIA-specific topics, or relationship issues, I am here to collaboratively address and support my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals.
Life can be really hard and oftentimes we need additional support. I love working with individuals through life's transitions and challenges. A belief and dedication to growth, resilience, and well-being, I prioritize trauma-informed care and social justice in my practice. I emphasize authenticity and genuine connections by integrating empathy, creativity, and humor into sessions using Gestalt Therapy. Whether guiding teens or adults through various life’s transitions or focusing on improving a client’s mental well-being, my approach remains culturally conscious and sensitive to individual experiences in the broader societal context
(424) 383-6792 View (424) 383-6792
Photo of Laura Kay Mclauchlin, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Kay Mclauchlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I have worked with many clients in the LGBT community.
Are you struggling with DEPRESSION or ANXIETY? Is your RELATIONSHIP stuck in negative patterns?Is SUBSTANCE USE getting in your way, or you're needing extra support in RECOVERY? Are you going through a stressful LIFE TRANSITION? If you answered "yes" to any these questions, or even "maybe", I might be the help you are looking for. I've been told by my clients that I take a more active, direct approach to therapy, and I believe humor is a great healer. It is my 1st job to help you feel accepted, and listened to. I want to help you achieve your therapeutic goals by learning about what motivates you as a unique individual.
I have worked with many clients in the LGBT community.
Are you struggling with DEPRESSION or ANXIETY? Is your RELATIONSHIP stuck in negative patterns?Is SUBSTANCE USE getting in your way, or you're needing extra support in RECOVERY? Are you going through a stressful LIFE TRANSITION? If you answered "yes" to any these questions, or even "maybe", I might be the help you are looking for. I've been told by my clients that I take a more active, direct approach to therapy, and I believe humor is a great healer. It is my 1st job to help you feel accepted, and listened to. I want to help you achieve your therapeutic goals by learning about what motivates you as a unique individual.
(310) 484-5715 View (310) 484-5715
Photo of Audrey Hu, ASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Hu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I also provide LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
I also provide LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
(818) 369-3997 View (818) 369-3997
Photo of Iordana Gaytan Gamiz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Iordana Gaytan Gamiz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My specializations include LGBTQAI+ affirmative therapy with a focus on Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, their families and partners, but I welcome individuals from all backgrounds and experiences.
Navigating life can be really challenging and my goal is to provide a warm, safe, judgement free, and collaborative environment to assist you navigate these challenges. In my work I recognize the importance of each individual’s intersecting identities such as race, gender identity, gender expression, culture of origin, immigration status, sexual orientation, primary language and disability. It is through the exploration and comprehension of these different parts, as well as live adversities, that we can have a more complete understanding of who we are and why we act the way we do.
My specializations include LGBTQAI+ affirmative therapy with a focus on Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, their families and partners, but I welcome individuals from all backgrounds and experiences.
Navigating life can be really challenging and my goal is to provide a warm, safe, judgement free, and collaborative environment to assist you navigate these challenges. In my work I recognize the importance of each individual’s intersecting identities such as race, gender identity, gender expression, culture of origin, immigration status, sexual orientation, primary language and disability. It is through the exploration and comprehension of these different parts, as well as live adversities, that we can have a more complete understanding of who we are and why we act the way we do.
(323) 689-5585 View (323) 689-5585
Photo of Dr. Andrea F Polard, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Andrea F Polard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Thank you for reaching out, which is a first, brave step in finding the therapist you like -the best predictor for therapeutic success. I feel blessed in my role as a therapist and deeply love my work. My clients suffer from depression, new relational wounds, old wounds and trauma, stress, anxiety, autism, and/or LGBTQ+ related problems. Because happiness and success depend on a sense of interconnectedness, my clients often seek to improve the quality of their relationships to themselves (inner peace, self-love, mindfulness, clarity), others (e.g., partnerships, parents, friends, employers), and the universe that can seem so cold.
Thank you for reaching out, which is a first, brave step in finding the therapist you like -the best predictor for therapeutic success. I feel blessed in my role as a therapist and deeply love my work. My clients suffer from depression, new relational wounds, old wounds and trauma, stress, anxiety, autism, and/or LGBTQ+ related problems. Because happiness and success depend on a sense of interconnectedness, my clients often seek to improve the quality of their relationships to themselves (inner peace, self-love, mindfulness, clarity), others (e.g., partnerships, parents, friends, employers), and the universe that can seem so cold.
(310) 879-5949 View (310) 879-5949
Photo of Hollie Granato, PhD, Psychologist
Hollie Granato
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I am dedicated to working with marginalized communities, social justice is a strong value of mine, and I am particularly interested in serving the LGBTQIA community.
I am licensed in CA, TX, HI, and all psypact states. My mission as a clinical psychologist is to help individuals reduce suffering and achieve purpose in their lives. I view therapy as teamwork and am dedicated to collaboratively helping clients reach their goals. I strive to provide evidence-based treatment, rooted in the latest scientific findings, facilitated by a validating and safe space.
I am dedicated to working with marginalized communities, social justice is a strong value of mine, and I am particularly interested in serving the LGBTQIA community.
I am licensed in CA, TX, HI, and all psypact states. My mission as a clinical psychologist is to help individuals reduce suffering and achieve purpose in their lives. I view therapy as teamwork and am dedicated to collaboratively helping clients reach their goals. I strive to provide evidence-based treatment, rooted in the latest scientific findings, facilitated by a validating and safe space.
(424) 363-7586 View (424) 363-7586
Photo of Adam Boardman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adam Boardman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I am LGBTQ+ affirmative, poly-and kink-supporting.
Hi there! Thanks for checking me out. It's hard to find the right therapist, so here's a little about me that might help. My goal for any client or couple is to meet you exactly where you are to move forward with strength and authenticity. No matter how depressed, discouraged, anxious, or confused you might be I believe in your ability to know yourself, heal yourself, and grow yourself. I support your ability to tune into yourself to live more authentically, to figure yourself out and have richer, deeper relationships. I am passionate about working with athletes, overachievers, adult men, and smart/sensitive types of all kinds.
I am LGBTQ+ affirmative, poly-and kink-supporting.
Hi there! Thanks for checking me out. It's hard to find the right therapist, so here's a little about me that might help. My goal for any client or couple is to meet you exactly where you are to move forward with strength and authenticity. No matter how depressed, discouraged, anxious, or confused you might be I believe in your ability to know yourself, heal yourself, and grow yourself. I support your ability to tune into yourself to live more authentically, to figure yourself out and have richer, deeper relationships. I am passionate about working with athletes, overachievers, adult men, and smart/sensitive types of all kinds.
(310) 361-2802 View (310) 361-2802
Photo of Julia K Pham, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia K Pham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Please note: I am only available for Telehealth video sessions. Many times, the experience of being seen and understood fully by another human being is the core of healing. I will nurture an environment and container of trust and support as you build the relationship and deepen your understanding and sense of self. I believe all people have the innate capacity for knowing the direction their own lives should take; I will join you as you explore the potential blocks standing in the way of living a fuller and more meaningful, authentic life.
Please note: I am only available for Telehealth video sessions. Many times, the experience of being seen and understood fully by another human being is the core of healing. I will nurture an environment and container of trust and support as you build the relationship and deepen your understanding and sense of self. I believe all people have the innate capacity for knowing the direction their own lives should take; I will join you as you explore the potential blocks standing in the way of living a fuller and more meaningful, authentic life.
(323) 403-0914 View (323) 403-0914
Photo of Jamie Rudden, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jamie Rudden
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I assist clients in navigating various challenges such as relational conflicts, significant life transitions, unresolved trauma, anxiety, and depression.
People come to therapy at all different points in their life. Whether you're returning to better understand a new situation or coming for the first time to explore opportunities for growth, I am here to meet you where you're at. In my experience, people seek change when they are not fully aligned with the person they want to be. Our work together will be to identify these misalignments, to learn how to empathize with how they came to be, and to find strategies for letting go of things that that no longer serve in order to find a sense of self we can feel proud of.
I assist clients in navigating various challenges such as relational conflicts, significant life transitions, unresolved trauma, anxiety, and depression.
People come to therapy at all different points in their life. Whether you're returning to better understand a new situation or coming for the first time to explore opportunities for growth, I am here to meet you where you're at. In my experience, people seek change when they are not fully aligned with the person they want to be. Our work together will be to identify these misalignments, to learn how to empathize with how they came to be, and to find strategies for letting go of things that that no longer serve in order to find a sense of self we can feel proud of.
(424) 728-5431 View (424) 728-5431
Photo of Renata Visomirskis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Renata Visomirskis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Los Angeles who has been practicing since 2015. I work from a relational psychodynamic orientation with a blend of CBT and DBT. I have a warm, collaborative and interactive style. I can help you explore your emotions, discover your authentic self and understand how your past is impacting your present so that you can have more satisfying relationships with yourself and others.
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Los Angeles who has been practicing since 2015. I work from a relational psychodynamic orientation with a blend of CBT and DBT. I have a warm, collaborative and interactive style. I can help you explore your emotions, discover your authentic self and understand how your past is impacting your present so that you can have more satisfying relationships with yourself and others.
(310) 362-3369 View (310) 362-3369
Photo of Alyssa Harberger, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alyssa Harberger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
You feel trapped somewhere between feeling like a kid and being an adult. While you may be working, in relationships, or managing certain aspects of life, you feel like you are chronically “faking it til you make it”. You find yourself imagining a life that feels more in control, but wonder how do I get there? You may not feel like you have all the answers, but what you do know is that you want to figure it out.
You feel trapped somewhere between feeling like a kid and being an adult. While you may be working, in relationships, or managing certain aspects of life, you feel like you are chronically “faking it til you make it”. You find yourself imagining a life that feels more in control, but wonder how do I get there? You may not feel like you have all the answers, but what you do know is that you want to figure it out.
(805) 301-9383 View (805) 301-9383
Photo of Patrick Brian Dickey, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patrick Brian Dickey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Life keeps rolling on whether we experience depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or conflicts with your loved ones. Getting yourself unstuck can be quite frustrating. For some, the challenge can create feelings of despair and hopelessness. But you can create a life that’s meaningful. Together we will collaborate on building on your existing strengths and create a new, purposeful, and worthwhile future.
Life keeps rolling on whether we experience depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or conflicts with your loved ones. Getting yourself unstuck can be quite frustrating. For some, the challenge can create feelings of despair and hopelessness. But you can create a life that’s meaningful. Together we will collaborate on building on your existing strengths and create a new, purposeful, and worthwhile future.
(310) 929-6157 View (310) 929-6157
Photo of Dr. Joseph Lancaster, PsyD, MFT, Psychologist
Dr. Joseph Lancaster
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
You are feeling like life is full of chaos and no matter what you do, you can’t seem to get a handle on what is happening. Your relationships are broken, or strained and not only is it affecting you, but others are pulling away. You feel lost as if you have no purpose in life. You are tired of the spinning wheel. Depression, anxiety, anger, relationship challenges and much more keep you stuck and unable to grow. ENOUGH! You're ready for answers to start a new Holistic, healthy journey and become that whole person you were meant to be - Mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually - whole!
You are feeling like life is full of chaos and no matter what you do, you can’t seem to get a handle on what is happening. Your relationships are broken, or strained and not only is it affecting you, but others are pulling away. You feel lost as if you have no purpose in life. You are tired of the spinning wheel. Depression, anxiety, anger, relationship challenges and much more keep you stuck and unable to grow. ENOUGH! You're ready for answers to start a new Holistic, healthy journey and become that whole person you were meant to be - Mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually - whole!
(818) 483-9968 View (818) 483-9968
Photo of J. Lancaster, PsyD, MFT, Psychologist
J. Lancaster
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Generally, I treat groups, couples, and individuals--21 years of age or older. I am best suited to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, alcohol/drug issues, personality disorders, anger, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorders, grief/loss, employment difficulties, military/veterans, spiritual issues, and relationship problems.
Generally, I treat groups, couples, and individuals--21 years of age or older. I am best suited to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, alcohol/drug issues, personality disorders, anger, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorders, grief/loss, employment difficulties, military/veterans, spiritual issues, and relationship problems.
(661) 349-9328 View (661) 349-9328
Photo of Suzanne Cheatham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Cheatham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Together we can address and explore; relationship issues, toxic stress, depression, trauma, grief, self-esteem building, sexual identity, anxiety, work issues, family issues, anger, addiction, personal growth, and life transitions.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters Degree from the University of Southern California, with over 15 years of experience. My client-centered approach is rooted in a strength-based perspective, where building an authentic connection with you is key and central to my counseling style. I believe in empowering you by focusing on your inherent resilience and capabilities. Whether it’s overcoming anxiety, rebuilding after trauma, or boosting your self-worth, I’m here to guide you every step of the way toward a more fulfilling life.
Together we can address and explore; relationship issues, toxic stress, depression, trauma, grief, self-esteem building, sexual identity, anxiety, work issues, family issues, anger, addiction, personal growth, and life transitions.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters Degree from the University of Southern California, with over 15 years of experience. My client-centered approach is rooted in a strength-based perspective, where building an authentic connection with you is key and central to my counseling style. I believe in empowering you by focusing on your inherent resilience and capabilities. Whether it’s overcoming anxiety, rebuilding after trauma, or boosting your self-worth, I’m here to guide you every step of the way toward a more fulfilling life.
(424) 496-5636 View (424) 496-5636
Photo of Kayna Ambroz Cassard, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kayna Ambroz Cassard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
I’ve developed a powerful treatment program incorporating research-based techniques and trauma-informed care with transformative sex therapy.
Intimacy & sex shouldn't be a burden. But when you look at your calendar and see "Date Night" deep down, you struggle with the conflicting feelings coming up. Yes, the ambiance will be beautiful. And you’re sure the meal will be lovely. And you’ll have a great time talking and laughing with your partner. But the entire time, you’ll dread the end of the night when you get into bed and you’re expected to have sex. You know sex is supposed to be an exciting, enjoyable thing, but for you, it’s anything but. Even sex scenes in movies make you uncomfortable. You feel guilty and inadequate as a partner. If only you had answers.
I’ve developed a powerful treatment program incorporating research-based techniques and trauma-informed care with transformative sex therapy.
Intimacy & sex shouldn't be a burden. But when you look at your calendar and see "Date Night" deep down, you struggle with the conflicting feelings coming up. Yes, the ambiance will be beautiful. And you’re sure the meal will be lovely. And you’ll have a great time talking and laughing with your partner. But the entire time, you’ll dread the end of the night when you get into bed and you’re expected to have sex. You know sex is supposed to be an exciting, enjoyable thing, but for you, it’s anything but. Even sex scenes in movies make you uncomfortable. You feel guilty and inadequate as a partner. If only you had answers.
(424) 353-2701 View (424) 353-2701
Photo of Catalina Lawsin, PhD, Psychologist
Catalina Lawsin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
You’re in midlife, craving more from your relationships and yourself. You’re ready to reclaim your sexuality and reconnect with who you are, not who the world expects you to be. Maybe you feel disconnected, lost in your intimate life, or unsure how to find passion again. Deep down, you know you deserve more—more connection, more pleasure, more freedom to be authentically you. You want to feel desired, alive, and empowered in every facet of your life, starting with intimacy. Your goal is to break free from the "shoulds" and discover a life where your desires are front and center.
You’re in midlife, craving more from your relationships and yourself. You’re ready to reclaim your sexuality and reconnect with who you are, not who the world expects you to be. Maybe you feel disconnected, lost in your intimate life, or unsure how to find passion again. Deep down, you know you deserve more—more connection, more pleasure, more freedom to be authentically you. You want to feel desired, alive, and empowered in every facet of your life, starting with intimacy. Your goal is to break free from the "shoulds" and discover a life where your desires are front and center.
(310) 359-8341 View (310) 359-8341
Photo of Ellyn Singer, PsyD, MFT, RN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellyn Singer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Dr. Ellyn Singer has been working in mental health for nearly 29 years. Throughout the course of her career, Dr. Singer has treated adults/adolescents, couples and families experiencing depression, suicidality, anxiety, personality disorders and addictive behaviors. She currently works in an intensive psychiatric facility as an individual/ family therapist. Dr. Singer also trains/supervises associates in Maternal Mental Health, Family/Child Therapy.
Dr. Ellyn Singer has been working in mental health for nearly 29 years. Throughout the course of her career, Dr. Singer has treated adults/adolescents, couples and families experiencing depression, suicidality, anxiety, personality disorders and addictive behaviors. She currently works in an intensive psychiatric facility as an individual/ family therapist. Dr. Singer also trains/supervises associates in Maternal Mental Health, Family/Child Therapy.
(310) 956-4034 View (310) 956-4034
Photo of Jennifer J Jackson - Jennifer J Jackson LPCC, LPCC, CCMHC
Jennifer J Jackson LPCC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Providing synchronous audio/video Telehealth therapy throughout CA and OR, I am committed to help you live fully and explore your potential. I specialize in understanding and solving the life problems of the individual adult (18 and up) which may cause depression and anxiety. I have developed a deep understanding of the pressures inherent in relationships, estrangement, academia, and cultural dynamics that can fuel these conditions. I am interested in helping to identify and solve issues which cause emotional challenges and am invested in helping people resolve difficulties with grief and loss processes.
Providing synchronous audio/video Telehealth therapy throughout CA and OR, I am committed to help you live fully and explore your potential. I specialize in understanding and solving the life problems of the individual adult (18 and up) which may cause depression and anxiety. I have developed a deep understanding of the pressures inherent in relationships, estrangement, academia, and cultural dynamics that can fuel these conditions. I am interested in helping to identify and solve issues which cause emotional challenges and am invested in helping people resolve difficulties with grief and loss processes.
(424) 396-5488 View (424) 396-5488
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.