LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 91505

Photo of James Dvorak, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
James Dvorak
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
My practice provides LGBTQIA+ -affirmative therapy and is sex-, kink-, ethical and consensual nonmonogamy-allied.
My goal is to help you navigate the challenges and fears related to moving forward from a relationship, the loss or shift in identity, and to support you in the process of (re)discovering yourself, especially when faced with questions about sexuality, expression, and roles in your daily life. Together, we will explore new perspectives and unknowns in these transitional periods, helping to equip you with the confidence to move forward, uncovering patterns, parts, and habits that may no longer fit you in their current state.
My practice provides LGBTQIA+ -affirmative therapy and is sex-, kink-, ethical and consensual nonmonogamy-allied.
My goal is to help you navigate the challenges and fears related to moving forward from a relationship, the loss or shift in identity, and to support you in the process of (re)discovering yourself, especially when faced with questions about sexuality, expression, and roles in your daily life. Together, we will explore new perspectives and unknowns in these transitional periods, helping to equip you with the confidence to move forward, uncovering patterns, parts, and habits that may no longer fit you in their current state.
(424) 401-3903 View (424) 401-3903
Photo of Colin Ebeling, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Colin Ebeling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
Together, we can embark on a journey towards healing, leaving behind endless struggle and embracing a path of hope and transformation.
“Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.” ― C.G. Jung . . . Are you feeling stuck, heavy, and depressed? Are you ready to wake up and uncover profound meanings in your experiences? Do you desire a supportive environment to explore your unique identities, relationships, and histories?
Together, we can embark on a journey towards healing, leaving behind endless struggle and embracing a path of hope and transformation.
“Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.” ― C.G. Jung . . . Are you feeling stuck, heavy, and depressed? Are you ready to wake up and uncover profound meanings in your experiences? Do you desire a supportive environment to explore your unique identities, relationships, and histories?
(818) 293-2014 View (818) 293-2014
Photo of Jacey Milliner, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jacey Milliner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
She specializes in clients seeking help with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, and the BIPOC/ LGBTQ+ community.
Jacey Milliner (AMFT 140322) is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in facilitating profound self- transformation. When working with individuals, couples, and families, her approach is firmly rooted in the belief that each person possesses inherent value and untapped potential. She is deeply committed to nurturing the therapeutic relationship, recognizing it as the cornerstone of the transformative journey with her clients. Within this dedicated space, her goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment, empowering clients to explore the depths of their emotions.
She specializes in clients seeking help with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, and the BIPOC/ LGBTQ+ community.
Jacey Milliner (AMFT 140322) is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in facilitating profound self- transformation. When working with individuals, couples, and families, her approach is firmly rooted in the belief that each person possesses inherent value and untapped potential. She is deeply committed to nurturing the therapeutic relationship, recognizing it as the cornerstone of the transformative journey with her clients. Within this dedicated space, her goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment, empowering clients to explore the depths of their emotions.
(747) 239-4789 View (747) 239-4789
Photo of Toby Barron, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toby Barron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
I honestly love my work. Working in LGBTQ+ mental health since 2013, I get to support clients with many different needs. A lot of my work focuses on: gender identity, medical and social gender transition, gender-affirming surgery prep & letters, coming out, self-esteem, HIV/AIDS, nonmonogamy, kink, stigma, discrimination, and building healthy relationships. My liberation-focused framework is collaborative, affirming, and intersectional. Beyond queer-specific issues, my focus also includes EMDR, trauma recovery, PTSD, ADHD, autism, neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, & recovery from unhealthy/narcissistic relationships.
I honestly love my work. Working in LGBTQ+ mental health since 2013, I get to support clients with many different needs. A lot of my work focuses on: gender identity, medical and social gender transition, gender-affirming surgery prep & letters, coming out, self-esteem, HIV/AIDS, nonmonogamy, kink, stigma, discrimination, and building healthy relationships. My liberation-focused framework is collaborative, affirming, and intersectional. Beyond queer-specific issues, my focus also includes EMDR, trauma recovery, PTSD, ADHD, autism, neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, & recovery from unhealthy/narcissistic relationships.
(213) 861-4796 View (213) 861-4796
Photo of Traci Time, PsyD, Psychologist
Traci Time
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
I assist persons struggling to manage relationships, LGBTQ-based difficulties, and post-military adjustment.
It has been a privilege for me to have worked across my career with diverse individuals, couples, and families, and I have served clients in a multitude of settings. I treat those struggling with a wide range of problems, such as coping with adverse past and present circumstances, trauma, managing transitions, grief and loss, existential conflicts, medical conditions, aging, women's issues, work-based challenges, and just feeling overwhelmed by day-to-day demands. I have extensive experience working with clients whose careers involve personal creativity.
I assist persons struggling to manage relationships, LGBTQ-based difficulties, and post-military adjustment.
It has been a privilege for me to have worked across my career with diverse individuals, couples, and families, and I have served clients in a multitude of settings. I treat those struggling with a wide range of problems, such as coping with adverse past and present circumstances, trauma, managing transitions, grief and loss, existential conflicts, medical conditions, aging, women's issues, work-based challenges, and just feeling overwhelmed by day-to-day demands. I have extensive experience working with clients whose careers involve personal creativity.
(818) 918-4984 View (818) 918-4984
Photo of Gregory Walston, PhD, MFT, CPRP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gregory Walston
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, CPRP
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty is in working with LGBTQI issues in an affirming, creative way that promotes acceptance, understanding, and a renewed commitment to pursuing your life goals.
I specialize in issues important to LGBTQI individuals/couples/families, like substance use recovery, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, coming out process, acceptance/family issues, HIV adjustment issues, men's issues, grief/loss, men and trauma, other gender issues, and psychological recovery from trauma. I enjoy helping LGBT people resolve early child/family issues that continue to block happiness. Also, I am experienced in helping teens. Whether you feel lost, stuck, or empty, let's work together to help you build a happier foundation, resolving any issues that hold you back so you can move forward and reclaim your life!
My specialty is in working with LGBTQI issues in an affirming, creative way that promotes acceptance, understanding, and a renewed commitment to pursuing your life goals.
I specialize in issues important to LGBTQI individuals/couples/families, like substance use recovery, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, coming out process, acceptance/family issues, HIV adjustment issues, men's issues, grief/loss, men and trauma, other gender issues, and psychological recovery from trauma. I enjoy helping LGBT people resolve early child/family issues that continue to block happiness. Also, I am experienced in helping teens. Whether you feel lost, stuck, or empty, let's work together to help you build a happier foundation, resolving any issues that hold you back so you can move forward and reclaim your life!
(818) 351-7109 View (818) 351-7109
Photo of Ren Barnebey Psych. Inc., MA, MFT, CGT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ren Barnebey Psych. Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CGT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
Whatever it is that's bringing you to therapy, whether it be anxiety, depression, intimacy issues or sexual difficulties, struggling with relationships or self esteem, therapy can help. I utilize a variety of methods including mindfulness of emotions and Focusing to help you feel more at home with yourself and more comfortable in your own skin. I am a sex positive, LGBTQ+ affirmative, kink friendly therapist. Everyone is welcome.
Whatever it is that's bringing you to therapy, whether it be anxiety, depression, intimacy issues or sexual difficulties, struggling with relationships or self esteem, therapy can help. I utilize a variety of methods including mindfulness of emotions and Focusing to help you feel more at home with yourself and more comfortable in your own skin. I am a sex positive, LGBTQ+ affirmative, kink friendly therapist. Everyone is welcome.
(323) 800-4946 View (323) 800-4946
Photo of Charles Adrian Bewley, MS, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charles Adrian Bewley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
My goal is to offer a safe and affirming space for you to explore the things you want to improve in your life, as well as the things you want to transform - no matter how big or small.
One of the best things my dad ever said to me was: Unless you believe in reincarnation, it’s time to be happy now. (Personally, I think this applies even if you do believe in reincarnation.) How to make the most of our time, our relationships, and ourselves - for me, these are the key questions that led me to become a marriage and family therapist. Along with traditional talk therapy, I use EMDR (if desired), as well as IFS, to help you work through present challenges and past difficult experiences so that you can live more freely in the here and now - unencumbered by old self-defeating beliefs and fears.
My goal is to offer a safe and affirming space for you to explore the things you want to improve in your life, as well as the things you want to transform - no matter how big or small.
One of the best things my dad ever said to me was: Unless you believe in reincarnation, it’s time to be happy now. (Personally, I think this applies even if you do believe in reincarnation.) How to make the most of our time, our relationships, and ourselves - for me, these are the key questions that led me to become a marriage and family therapist. Along with traditional talk therapy, I use EMDR (if desired), as well as IFS, to help you work through present challenges and past difficult experiences so that you can live more freely in the here and now - unencumbered by old self-defeating beliefs and fears.
(747) 205-1104 View (747) 205-1104
Photo of Tiffany Bushnell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Bushnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
Many of my clients struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, avoidance, and emotional intimacy. My work with individuals centers on self-examination, increasing present awareness, and exploring interpersonal dynamics. Whatever it is that brings you here, therapy can help you cultivate self-compassion, balance, and choice. In my work with couples and intimate partnerships, my focus lies in enhancing communication and conflict resolution skills, fostering emotional and sexual intimacy, and nurturing compassion and understanding. I am inclusive of monogamous, non-monogamous, heterosexual, and LGBTQIA+ individuals and relationships.
Many of my clients struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, avoidance, and emotional intimacy. My work with individuals centers on self-examination, increasing present awareness, and exploring interpersonal dynamics. Whatever it is that brings you here, therapy can help you cultivate self-compassion, balance, and choice. In my work with couples and intimate partnerships, my focus lies in enhancing communication and conflict resolution skills, fostering emotional and sexual intimacy, and nurturing compassion and understanding. I am inclusive of monogamous, non-monogamous, heterosexual, and LGBTQIA+ individuals and relationships.
(323) 381-5148 View (323) 381-5148
Photo of Dr. Jose Guerra, PsyD, LMFT, CEAP, Psychologist
Dr. Jose Guerra
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT, CEAP
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
My clinical focus includes LGBTQ+ individuals, first-gen college students, and oppressed communities, guided by a social justice and trauma-informed approach.
Life can present unexpected challenges that feel overwhelming. During these times, having support can make a difference. Whether you're exploring your sexuality, LGBTQ+ and POC concerns, dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, intimacy issues, or complex relationships, therapy can help you work towards emotional health. We can navigate these difficulties together.
My clinical focus includes LGBTQ+ individuals, first-gen college students, and oppressed communities, guided by a social justice and trauma-informed approach.
Life can present unexpected challenges that feel overwhelming. During these times, having support can make a difference. Whether you're exploring your sexuality, LGBTQ+ and POC concerns, dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, intimacy issues, or complex relationships, therapy can help you work towards emotional health. We can navigate these difficulties together.
(323) 310-1194 View (323) 310-1194
Photo of Maricela Hurtado, MFT, BIPOC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maricela Hurtado
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, BIPOC
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
Hiii there, welcome to my page! Whatever the reasons that have brought you here, take a moment to pause and acknowlege that this process of connecting with someone new, is never easy! So, I'll do my best to bridge that gap of uncertainty by telling you a little about me. I'm a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (this, just a fancy word for saying that I can see adults, children, families, couples and of course, individuals, one on one). I am a parent, a wife, BIPOC, an ally to the Queer community, and all communities that seek equality and justice regardless of gender, race, socioeconomic background, persons with disabilities, etc.
Hiii there, welcome to my page! Whatever the reasons that have brought you here, take a moment to pause and acknowlege that this process of connecting with someone new, is never easy! So, I'll do my best to bridge that gap of uncertainty by telling you a little about me. I'm a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (this, just a fancy word for saying that I can see adults, children, families, couples and of course, individuals, one on one). I am a parent, a wife, BIPOC, an ally to the Queer community, and all communities that seek equality and justice regardless of gender, race, socioeconomic background, persons with disabilities, etc.
(805) 953-7659 View (805) 953-7659
Photo of Judith Whitcher, LPCC
Judith Whitcher
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
My name is Judy Whitcher. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the State of California. I have been licensed in California for 3 years and was licensed in Arkansas (previously) for 13 years. I approach therapy as a collaborative effort between client and therapist where we work together to identify what direction therapy needs to go and move towards that goal together. I have worked with many populations including children, families, school-based, community mental health, LGBTQ+ populations, geriatrics, and severely mentally ill.
My name is Judy Whitcher. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the State of California. I have been licensed in California for 3 years and was licensed in Arkansas (previously) for 13 years. I approach therapy as a collaborative effort between client and therapist where we work together to identify what direction therapy needs to go and move towards that goal together. I have worked with many populations including children, families, school-based, community mental health, LGBTQ+ populations, geriatrics, and severely mentally ill.
(818) 740-3861 View (818) 740-3861
Photo of Richelle Nichols, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Richelle Nichols
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
Your struggles and your stories are unique to you and can get in the way of the successes you want to have. I enjoy working with adults and young adults who are looking to be healthier mentally and develop skills to manage emotional stresses and responses. I also enjoy working with couples in traditional and non-traditional relationships. I am open to different spiritualities and friendly to LGBTQIA individuals. I have experience working with caregivers of seniors with dementia, mood disorders, relationship issues, addiction, and family dysfunction. I provide a culturally sensitive therapeutic space that is non-judgmental.
Your struggles and your stories are unique to you and can get in the way of the successes you want to have. I enjoy working with adults and young adults who are looking to be healthier mentally and develop skills to manage emotional stresses and responses. I also enjoy working with couples in traditional and non-traditional relationships. I am open to different spiritualities and friendly to LGBTQIA individuals. I have experience working with caregivers of seniors with dementia, mood disorders, relationship issues, addiction, and family dysfunction. I provide a culturally sensitive therapeutic space that is non-judgmental.
(844) 478-0053 View (844) 478-0053
Photo of John Rosania, MS, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Rosania
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
My practice is LGBTQ+ affirmative and poly/open relationship aware.
I help individuals, couples, and partnerships develop greater awareness and compassion towards themselves and the stuck places in their lives. Then we consider ways to take action to reduce suffering and create a life worth living.
My practice is LGBTQ+ affirmative and poly/open relationship aware.
I help individuals, couples, and partnerships develop greater awareness and compassion towards themselves and the stuck places in their lives. Then we consider ways to take action to reduce suffering and create a life worth living.
(818) 369-3248 View (818) 369-3248
Photo of Elaine Ahmad, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Ahmad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
I identify as someone within the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities and have worked with these populations throughout my career as a therapist. I am particularly drawn to working with people dealing with life transitions, whether it be leaving a long-term relationship, exploring a new career path, or entering a new phase of life. Transitions can be a scary but also a time of incredible personal growth in which someone can emerge with a new, more resilient sense of their identity and purpose.
I identify as someone within the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities and have worked with these populations throughout my career as a therapist. I am particularly drawn to working with people dealing with life transitions, whether it be leaving a long-term relationship, exploring a new career path, or entering a new phase of life. Transitions can be a scary but also a time of incredible personal growth in which someone can emerge with a new, more resilient sense of their identity and purpose.
(747) 277-7702 View (747) 277-7702
Photo of Christi Gallon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christi Gallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
(626) 784-4864 View (626) 784-4864
Photo of Grace Malonai - TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment , PhD, LPCC, BC-TMH, Counselor
TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
We are LGBTQ+ allies.
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
We are LGBTQ+ allies.
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
(818) 337-7088 View (818) 337-7088
Photo of Mark Chaney-Gay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Chaney-Gay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
Hello. My name is Mark. I am a gay, disabled therapist (licensed clinical social worker, LCSW). I believe that we all have the strengths to overcome or cope with the challenges we face, we might just need a little support. I work with a wide range of clients, but I have a passion for those with disabilities, those with foster care experience, and those in the LGBTQI community. I work with clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. While in session with me you can expect a direct and empathetic approach.
Hello. My name is Mark. I am a gay, disabled therapist (licensed clinical social worker, LCSW). I believe that we all have the strengths to overcome or cope with the challenges we face, we might just need a little support. I work with a wide range of clients, but I have a passion for those with disabilities, those with foster care experience, and those in the LGBTQI community. I work with clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. While in session with me you can expect a direct and empathetic approach.
(442) 233-8249 View (442) 233-8249
Photo of Sterling Walker, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
I specialize in LGBTQ issues, couples therapy, and sex therapy.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
I specialize in LGBTQ issues, couples therapy, and sex therapy.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(415) 980-8479 View (415) 980-8479
Photo of Gregory A. Walston - Growth Rings Relationship & Family Therapy, Inc., PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Growth Rings Relationship & Family Therapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
Specialties include trauma resolution/PTSD; couples; and LGBT,.
Are you ready to change your life for the better? No matter what you are going through, remember: you are not your problem! Life is both complicated and stressful, and we are not born with "how-to" instructions or "live-life-this-way" manuals. We are all in a process of trying to find personal security while feeling our way through life. I invite you to work with me to untangle and understand your life, increase personal security and life satisfaction, and resolve issues and symptoms that are holding you back from becoming the person you really want to be.
Specialties include trauma resolution/PTSD; couples; and LGBT,.
Are you ready to change your life for the better? No matter what you are going through, remember: you are not your problem! Life is both complicated and stressful, and we are not born with "how-to" instructions or "live-life-this-way" manuals. We are all in a process of trying to find personal security while feeling our way through life. I invite you to work with me to untangle and understand your life, increase personal security and life satisfaction, and resolve issues and symptoms that are holding you back from becoming the person you really want to be.
(818) 869-4311 View (818) 869-4311
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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.