LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 92123
Hazel Hamann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
UPDATE 8/24: I'M on LEAVE through OCTOBER 2024. Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
UPDATE 8/24: I'M on LEAVE through OCTOBER 2024. Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
Hi! Thanks for reading through my profile. Seeking support outside of your social circle can feel vulnerable. You’re here because you know there’s something inside of you ready to be explored, attended to, and integrated. Therapy is a space of collaboration and curiosity, a space to inquire about who we think we are and the limits of our beliefs, a space to delve into new shapes. I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults (particularly the queer community) for a wide range of concerns including recovery from substance abuse, trauma, stress, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and anxiety.
Hi! Thanks for reading through my profile. Seeking support outside of your social circle can feel vulnerable. You’re here because you know there’s something inside of you ready to be explored, attended to, and integrated. Therapy is a space of collaboration and curiosity, a space to inquire about who we think we are and the limits of our beliefs, a space to delve into new shapes. I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults (particularly the queer community) for a wide range of concerns including recovery from substance abuse, trauma, stress, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and anxiety.
Nathan Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
I specialize in working with people within the BIPOC and LGBTQ communities and all are welcome here.
Do you feel stuck in your patterns of thought and behavior? Do you feel like there must be a better way to live as an individual and in relationships? Do you struggle to live with the impacts of depression, anxiety, or ADHD? You are not alone and I'm here to help. So much of how you experience yourself, others, and the world can be understood through experiences you had within your family, school, and culture. Understanding these influences and the ideas that they made reality, can free up space for you to choose your own experiences and relationships.
I specialize in working with people within the BIPOC and LGBTQ communities and all are welcome here.
Do you feel stuck in your patterns of thought and behavior? Do you feel like there must be a better way to live as an individual and in relationships? Do you struggle to live with the impacts of depression, anxiety, or ADHD? You are not alone and I'm here to help. So much of how you experience yourself, others, and the world can be understood through experiences you had within your family, school, and culture. Understanding these influences and the ideas that they made reality, can free up space for you to choose your own experiences and relationships.
Debra Berl is a Licensed Clinical Social worker who completed her graduate degree in 1991 and was licensed in 1995. She has been working in the field of Social Work and Counseling since 1991. Debra treats clients from all backgrounds with a focus on adults and adolescents. Debra's area of experience and training include: grief and loss, coping with chronic pain and illness, depression, women's issues, LGBTQ concerns, supporting parents of children with special needs and treating anxiety disorders.
Debra Berl is a Licensed Clinical Social worker who completed her graduate degree in 1991 and was licensed in 1995. She has been working in the field of Social Work and Counseling since 1991. Debra treats clients from all backgrounds with a focus on adults and adolescents. Debra's area of experience and training include: grief and loss, coping with chronic pain and illness, depression, women's issues, LGBTQ concerns, supporting parents of children with special needs and treating anxiety disorders.
Dr. Laura Castro
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
Although therapy can't change the marginalization and oppression faced by the queer community, it can provide a space for healing and empowerment.
LGBTQIA+ and Gender Affirmative Therapy for adolescents, adults, and their families. Are you struggling with identity- or relationship-related problems? Do you feel stuck or long to overcome trauma, anxiety, & depression? Whether it's dealing with patterns of unhealthy or unsatisfying relationships, societal injustices ( transphobia, homophobia, racism, discrimination, and more), or the effects of violence, trauma, or familial rejection, your feelings are valid, and you're not alone. Together, we can work towards healing and building the life you desire in an affirming and supportive environment.
Although therapy can't change the marginalization and oppression faced by the queer community, it can provide a space for healing and empowerment.
LGBTQIA+ and Gender Affirmative Therapy for adolescents, adults, and their families. Are you struggling with identity- or relationship-related problems? Do you feel stuck or long to overcome trauma, anxiety, & depression? Whether it's dealing with patterns of unhealthy or unsatisfying relationships, societal injustices ( transphobia, homophobia, racism, discrimination, and more), or the effects of violence, trauma, or familial rejection, your feelings are valid, and you're not alone. Together, we can work towards healing and building the life you desire in an affirming and supportive environment.
Whether you are in mourning, facing difficulties of neurodivergence, struggling with a chronic illness, experiencing systemic issues as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, or facing constant change as a military family member, it can be daunting to confront these challenges on your own. As a queer, NB, neurodivergent therapist with chronic illness and raised in a military family, I can empathize with the complex struggles you may be facing. I offer a supportive and collaborative environment to explore and address these diverse and unique aspects of your life.
Whether you are in mourning, facing difficulties of neurodivergence, struggling with a chronic illness, experiencing systemic issues as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, or facing constant change as a military family member, it can be daunting to confront these challenges on your own. As a queer, NB, neurodivergent therapist with chronic illness and raised in a military family, I can empathize with the complex struggles you may be facing. I offer a supportive and collaborative environment to explore and address these diverse and unique aspects of your life.
I am fluent in English, Spanish and Hebrew and I work with many culturally diverse clients, including LGBTQ, the Jewish community, the Military community and immigrants from all backgrounds.
My approach is based on neuro-developmental, psychodynamic and attachment theories, with a strong focus on creativity and self-empowerment.
I am fluent in English, Spanish and Hebrew and I work with many culturally diverse clients, including LGBTQ, the Jewish community, the Military community and immigrants from all backgrounds.
My approach is based on neuro-developmental, psychodynamic and attachment theories, with a strong focus on creativity and self-empowerment.
Kelly Goldsteinholm
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
You have found a safe, judgment-free space for kinksters, non-monogamists, swingers, and people with otherwise “alternative” relationship structures, dynamics, and roles to discuss issues of sexuality and identity. As a gay, kinky, queer therapist, I understand the complexities and importance of relationships - both with each other and with ourselves. If you experience disordered eating, we will work together, utilizing the Healthy at Every Size (HAES) approach, to holistically heal and restructure your overall mindset toward food and your physical body. Because bodies of all sizes deserve to be loved and respected.
You have found a safe, judgment-free space for kinksters, non-monogamists, swingers, and people with otherwise “alternative” relationship structures, dynamics, and roles to discuss issues of sexuality and identity. As a gay, kinky, queer therapist, I understand the complexities and importance of relationships - both with each other and with ourselves. If you experience disordered eating, we will work together, utilizing the Healthy at Every Size (HAES) approach, to holistically heal and restructure your overall mindset toward food and your physical body. Because bodies of all sizes deserve to be loved and respected.
Kink-Informed Sex Therapist Renee Santos
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123 (Online Only)
We can work together on your personal growth, self-compassion, anxiety management, life stressors, as well as supporting you through life transitions.
I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. If you want to achieve greater self-awareness and understanding, and develop the skills and insights necessary to make positive changes in your life, then let’s talk. I’d love to help you live a fulfilling and satisfying life, free from fear of discrimination or stigma, while cultivating healthy and fulfilling relationships that align with your values and desires. Additionally, if you are a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I want to provide you with a safe and affirming space.
We can work together on your personal growth, self-compassion, anxiety management, life stressors, as well as supporting you through life transitions.
I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. If you want to achieve greater self-awareness and understanding, and develop the skills and insights necessary to make positive changes in your life, then let’s talk. I’d love to help you live a fulfilling and satisfying life, free from fear of discrimination or stigma, while cultivating healthy and fulfilling relationships that align with your values and desires. Additionally, if you are a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I want to provide you with a safe and affirming space.
Dr. Jason N Linder & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
I help people, especially entrepreneurs, have better relationships, resolve painful memories (I'm certified & train in EMDR), embrace who they are, and decrease anxiety. I adjust my approach to fit your needs and preferences. Expert in transgender, ESA, VA, immigration, and trauma evaluations. Advanced in trauma, addiction, relationships, and mindfulness (I write about them on Psychology Today). You can usually expect change in 2-8 sessions. As a psychology doctor and professor, I’m updated on the latest research, and am dedicated, caring, and collaborative. You should feel understood, hopeful, and safe in your confidential therapy.
I help people, especially entrepreneurs, have better relationships, resolve painful memories (I'm certified & train in EMDR), embrace who they are, and decrease anxiety. I adjust my approach to fit your needs and preferences. Expert in transgender, ESA, VA, immigration, and trauma evaluations. Advanced in trauma, addiction, relationships, and mindfulness (I write about them on Psychology Today). You can usually expect change in 2-8 sessions. As a psychology doctor and professor, I’m updated on the latest research, and am dedicated, caring, and collaborative. You should feel understood, hopeful, and safe in your confidential therapy.
Are you looking for a supportive space to learn from the past, consider the present, and determine the possibilities for a better future? If you’re looking to explore various aspects of yourself with a candid spirit, I can help you orient toward joy, harmony, and well-being in your life and relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and proud ally of the LGBTQ community. I offer a non-judgmental space for you to open your mind and heart toward a more hopeful, optimistic, and happier future. In granting yourself that space, you gift yourself freedom to love—to love yourself—and to express, give and receive love in relationships.
Are you looking for a supportive space to learn from the past, consider the present, and determine the possibilities for a better future? If you’re looking to explore various aspects of yourself with a candid spirit, I can help you orient toward joy, harmony, and well-being in your life and relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and proud ally of the LGBTQ community. I offer a non-judgmental space for you to open your mind and heart toward a more hopeful, optimistic, and happier future. In granting yourself that space, you gift yourself freedom to love—to love yourself—and to express, give and receive love in relationships.
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Shari L Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123 (Online Only)
I'm here to support you, with respect, authenticity & transparency.
Whatever suffering has brought you here, welcome. You may be exhausted from feeling “Never Good Enough”, overwhelmed with shame, worry or sadness, hopeless about things getting better…or just need a safe, supportive place to heal? I would be honored to help. My clients tell me they feel “heard", listened to without being judged and feel better able to cope. I'm passionate about helping people struggling due to Narcissistic Abuse, Trauma & complex PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/Autism Neurodivergence, Relationship concerns, Suicidal thoughts, Borderline Personality traits, Alcohol & Drug problems, and LGBTQ/ Diversity issues.
I'm here to support you, with respect, authenticity & transparency.
Whatever suffering has brought you here, welcome. You may be exhausted from feeling “Never Good Enough”, overwhelmed with shame, worry or sadness, hopeless about things getting better…or just need a safe, supportive place to heal? I would be honored to help. My clients tell me they feel “heard", listened to without being judged and feel better able to cope. I'm passionate about helping people struggling due to Narcissistic Abuse, Trauma & complex PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/Autism Neurodivergence, Relationship concerns, Suicidal thoughts, Borderline Personality traits, Alcohol & Drug problems, and LGBTQ/ Diversity issues.
Micah Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123 (Online Only)
Some common issues I have worked with include anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, neurodivergence, body image, self-esteem, multicultural issues, LGBTQIA identities, and intergenerational trauma, especially for individuals from immigrant families.
Whether it’s shame, helplessness, unhealthy behavioral patterns you’re trying to break, or simply feeling like you’re never enough, you’ve come to the right place. It takes courage to admit you’re struggling, and even more so to ask for help. The environment, culture, and family we grow up in affect how we navigate the world. As a second-generation queer-identifying Filipina American, I know how difficult it is growing up in two different cultures and upbringings. My goal as a therapist is to make you feel seen and heard in a safe, supportive environment. I aim to co-create a space tailored to your emotions, needs, and experiences.
Some common issues I have worked with include anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, neurodivergence, body image, self-esteem, multicultural issues, LGBTQIA identities, and intergenerational trauma, especially for individuals from immigrant families.
Whether it’s shame, helplessness, unhealthy behavioral patterns you’re trying to break, or simply feeling like you’re never enough, you’ve come to the right place. It takes courage to admit you’re struggling, and even more so to ask for help. The environment, culture, and family we grow up in affect how we navigate the world. As a second-generation queer-identifying Filipina American, I know how difficult it is growing up in two different cultures and upbringings. My goal as a therapist is to make you feel seen and heard in a safe, supportive environment. I aim to co-create a space tailored to your emotions, needs, and experiences.
Do you want to live a more pleasure-positive life? Don’t allow stigma, guilt, or judgment to hold you back from the life you crave and the love you deserve. Sexual pleasure is a birthright. If you’re looking to create more intimacy in your life and relationships, I offer affirming care for you as a whole person. As a member of the LGBTQ community and a kink identified therapist with over 15 years of study and work in sexual health, I am familiar with the thriving spectrums of Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity (GSRD) and the many ways in which love can be both offered and received in relationships.
Do you want to live a more pleasure-positive life? Don’t allow stigma, guilt, or judgment to hold you back from the life you crave and the love you deserve. Sexual pleasure is a birthright. If you’re looking to create more intimacy in your life and relationships, I offer affirming care for you as a whole person. As a member of the LGBTQ community and a kink identified therapist with over 15 years of study and work in sexual health, I am familiar with the thriving spectrums of Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity (GSRD) and the many ways in which love can be both offered and received in relationships.
It is so courageous to be human, especially for QTBIPOC folx. The freedom to be or express ourselves can feel impossible. The big emotions with life transitions and internal crises can be overwhelming. The pressures of family and cultural expectations can make you feel lost or inadequate. The confusion of answering existential questions: “Who am I?” or “Why am I like this?” can be a never ending spiral. We are not meant to navigate our humanness alone. Together, we can hold the tenderness and expansion of life. I am a queer Khmer Filipinx gender fluid person with roots from the Central Valley of CA.
It is so courageous to be human, especially for QTBIPOC folx. The freedom to be or express ourselves can feel impossible. The big emotions with life transitions and internal crises can be overwhelming. The pressures of family and cultural expectations can make you feel lost or inadequate. The confusion of answering existential questions: “Who am I?” or “Why am I like this?” can be a never ending spiral. We are not meant to navigate our humanness alone. Together, we can hold the tenderness and expansion of life. I am a queer Khmer Filipinx gender fluid person with roots from the Central Valley of CA.
I offer support and guidance to ease transitions and facilitate transformation by employing evidence-based treatment methods, including psychedelic-assisted healing, that are designed to move you from struggle to strength.
It is possible to create lasting change and build the life you want for yourself. In today’s on-the-go culture, it’s easy to feel swept up in the current of productivity and success, leaving little room to slow down, replenish, and heal. This often results in overwhelming stress, anxiety, or depression that interferes with holistic wellness, happiness, and experience of being. With compassion, curiosity, and a non-judgmental approach, I can help you develop skills to ride the tides of your emotional waves instead of being swept into the storm that brews when attempting to numb, avoid, repress, or deny feelings.
I offer support and guidance to ease transitions and facilitate transformation by employing evidence-based treatment methods, including psychedelic-assisted healing, that are designed to move you from struggle to strength.
It is possible to create lasting change and build the life you want for yourself. In today’s on-the-go culture, it’s easy to feel swept up in the current of productivity and success, leaving little room to slow down, replenish, and heal. This often results in overwhelming stress, anxiety, or depression that interferes with holistic wellness, happiness, and experience of being. With compassion, curiosity, and a non-judgmental approach, I can help you develop skills to ride the tides of your emotional waves instead of being swept into the storm that brews when attempting to numb, avoid, repress, or deny feelings.
I have enjoyed work with women and men, LGBTQIA+ individuals, transition age adults, adults, and older adults.
Counseling is a collaborative relationship where the client is the expert on their life. We bring our expertise together to help the client achieve their goals. Everyone is unique so therapy is personal and unique for each client. I use a variety of approaches that meet the needs of the client and their needs, including Buddhist Psychology and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I want clients to feels respected and valued in the therapeutic process. I love my work as a therapist and feel so privileged to be a part of others lives that supports their healing. My work as a Marriage and Family Therapist has been both broad and deep.
I have enjoyed work with women and men, LGBTQIA+ individuals, transition age adults, adults, and older adults.
Counseling is a collaborative relationship where the client is the expert on their life. We bring our expertise together to help the client achieve their goals. Everyone is unique so therapy is personal and unique for each client. I use a variety of approaches that meet the needs of the client and their needs, including Buddhist Psychology and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I want clients to feels respected and valued in the therapeutic process. I love my work as a therapist and feel so privileged to be a part of others lives that supports their healing. My work as a Marriage and Family Therapist has been both broad and deep.
Bridget Suzanne Kermorris
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, JD, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
Searching for support during a difficult time and/or a season of change can be a big deal. In my therapeutic relationships, I walk alongside clients as they work to transform their most important relationships with loved ones and with themselves. I have a heart for and offer affirming care to all people. I am committed to learning and growing in my care for people in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities. My specialities are journeying with parents as they reconnect with and support their teens, treating complex PTSD, and supporting neurodivergent individuals as well as their partners and families.
Searching for support during a difficult time and/or a season of change can be a big deal. In my therapeutic relationships, I walk alongside clients as they work to transform their most important relationships with loved ones and with themselves. I have a heart for and offer affirming care to all people. I am committed to learning and growing in my care for people in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities. My specialities are journeying with parents as they reconnect with and support their teens, treating complex PTSD, and supporting neurodivergent individuals as well as their partners and families.
I have over 20 years of clinical experience and have come to believe that fostering a trusting and compassionate therapeutic relationship can help us feel empowered and confident in our own healthy sense of self. As a South Asian/Indian woman who identifies as a person of color and within the LGBTQIA+ community, I recognize a need for folks to have a therapist who understands these issues. My approach is collaborative, client-centered, strength-based, and solution-focused. Mazu Master, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
I have over 20 years of clinical experience and have come to believe that fostering a trusting and compassionate therapeutic relationship can help us feel empowered and confident in our own healthy sense of self. As a South Asian/Indian woman who identifies as a person of color and within the LGBTQIA+ community, I recognize a need for folks to have a therapist who understands these issues. My approach is collaborative, client-centered, strength-based, and solution-focused. Mazu Master, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
Hi! My name is Raysean Ford, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I provide therapeutic services via teletherapy to adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger management, conflict resolution, and LGBTQ+ Identity issues. My style and approach could be a good fit for individuals who may be dealing with symptoms that include: Anxiety, Grief, Stress, Anger, Low- Self-esteem, and Peer and Family Conflicts. I collaborate with clients to help them identify their symptoms, identify the source of their symptoms, and learn healthy ways to cope and build skills to feel better about themselves.
Hi! My name is Raysean Ford, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I provide therapeutic services via teletherapy to adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger management, conflict resolution, and LGBTQ+ Identity issues. My style and approach could be a good fit for individuals who may be dealing with symptoms that include: Anxiety, Grief, Stress, Anger, Low- Self-esteem, and Peer and Family Conflicts. I collaborate with clients to help them identify their symptoms, identify the source of their symptoms, and learn healthy ways to cope and build skills to feel better about themselves.
See more therapy options for 92123
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.