LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 94115

Photo of Ashley Gallagher, Pre-Licensed Professional in 94115, CA
Ashley Gallagher
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I specialize in working with adults and adolescents who struggle with the effects of relational trauma. My experience has been predominately working with the LGBTQ community, but I welcome ALL identities. Attachment wounding, addictions or negative internal narratives can leave us feeling stuck in certain thought patterns, maladaptive behaviors, or relationships- this is where I can help. My approach allows my clients to decrease their anxiety, overcome self-doubt and cultivate a new sense of loving, caring for and trusting themselves.
I specialize in working with adults and adolescents who struggle with the effects of relational trauma. My experience has been predominately working with the LGBTQ community, but I welcome ALL identities. Attachment wounding, addictions or negative internal narratives can leave us feeling stuck in certain thought patterns, maladaptive behaviors, or relationships- this is where I can help. My approach allows my clients to decrease their anxiety, overcome self-doubt and cultivate a new sense of loving, caring for and trusting themselves.
(415) 301-7360 View (415) 301-7360
Photo of Claire Perelman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94115, CA
Claire Perelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
We might be a good fit if you are looking for a sex-positive, kink, polyam, and Queer affirming therapist (that gets it).
You deserve to feel deeply connected to yourself, your partner(s), and the world around you. I’m here to help. Talking about sex with your partner - or anyone - might feel like a daunting task. Having sex might feel difficult, impossible, or like too much effort - or lead to conflict with your partner. You might be questioning your sexual desires or wondering if you and your partner are still compatible. I help clients overcome their sexual and relational difficulties to feel confident in and outside the bedroom. Together, we will collaborate on how to help you reach your goals, through therapy sessions and home assignments.
We might be a good fit if you are looking for a sex-positive, kink, polyam, and Queer affirming therapist (that gets it).
You deserve to feel deeply connected to yourself, your partner(s), and the world around you. I’m here to help. Talking about sex with your partner - or anyone - might feel like a daunting task. Having sex might feel difficult, impossible, or like too much effort - or lead to conflict with your partner. You might be questioning your sexual desires or wondering if you and your partner are still compatible. I help clients overcome their sexual and relational difficulties to feel confident in and outside the bedroom. Together, we will collaborate on how to help you reach your goals, through therapy sessions and home assignments.
(415) 985-4279 View (415) 985-4279
Photo of Megan Sullivan-Tuba, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94115, CA
Megan Sullivan-Tuba
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
LGBTQ+ couples and non-monogamous partners of all genders and orientations are welcome and encouraged to reach out! Please contact our office to schedule a free, 20-minute consultation to learn more about my work and get on my calendar.
Therapy isn’t easy — but that doesn't mean it has to be joyless. If you’re looking for a therapist who can delve into the dark stuff with both the compassionate support and the sense of humor that it deserves, you’ve come to the right place. I'm an Associate Marriage and Family therapist who works with individuals and couples of all genders and orientations to improve their relationships. I love working with clients to improve communication and increasing intimacy, especially when partners come from different cultural backgrounds and hold different values.
LGBTQ+ couples and non-monogamous partners of all genders and orientations are welcome and encouraged to reach out! Please contact our office to schedule a free, 20-minute consultation to learn more about my work and get on my calendar.
Therapy isn’t easy — but that doesn't mean it has to be joyless. If you’re looking for a therapist who can delve into the dark stuff with both the compassionate support and the sense of humor that it deserves, you’ve come to the right place. I'm an Associate Marriage and Family therapist who works with individuals and couples of all genders and orientations to improve their relationships. I love working with clients to improve communication and increasing intimacy, especially when partners come from different cultural backgrounds and hold different values.
(415) 741-5533 View (415) 741-5533
Photo of Lark Nierenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94115, CA
Lark Nierenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a therapeutic focus on gender and sexuality, early trauma, and family and relationship dynamics. My approach is empathic, warm, and thoughtful. My clients often wish to understand their identities more deeply; seek support staying true to themselves in their relationships and community; and pursue healing and meaning-making following trauma. Through our work, you can develop new insights and coping skills to manage overwhelm, anxiety, depression, or life transitions. I'm particularly dedicated to working with queer, transgender, non-binary, and kink communities.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a therapeutic focus on gender and sexuality, early trauma, and family and relationship dynamics. My approach is empathic, warm, and thoughtful. My clients often wish to understand their identities more deeply; seek support staying true to themselves in their relationships and community; and pursue healing and meaning-making following trauma. Through our work, you can develop new insights and coping skills to manage overwhelm, anxiety, depression, or life transitions. I'm particularly dedicated to working with queer, transgender, non-binary, and kink communities.
(415) 851-8370 View (415) 851-8370
Photo of Justine Fan, Pre-Licensed Professional in 94115, CA
Justine Fan
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
If you're looking for a therapist who brings authenticity, warmth, and a feminist sensibility to their work, I might be the person to help! I typically work with clients who find themselves at complex intersections of identity, especially around sexuality, gender and culture. Many of my clients are children of immigrants, and/or queer and trans people of color, navigating questions about family and relationships. I can offer an affirming space work through intergenerational trauma and feelings of cultural guilt or shame. I am also able to support clients wit common concerns like anxiety, depression, stress management & more.
If you're looking for a therapist who brings authenticity, warmth, and a feminist sensibility to their work, I might be the person to help! I typically work with clients who find themselves at complex intersections of identity, especially around sexuality, gender and culture. Many of my clients are children of immigrants, and/or queer and trans people of color, navigating questions about family and relationships. I can offer an affirming space work through intergenerational trauma and feelings of cultural guilt or shame. I am also able to support clients wit common concerns like anxiety, depression, stress management & more.
(415) 741-5533 View (415) 741-5533
Photo of Kadence Mitchell, Pre-Licensed Professional in 94115, CA
Kadence Mitchell
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
As a Black, queer femme with mixed ancestry, I carry with me both a personal and professional understanding of the systems of oppression and domination that entangle with identity and wreak havoc in our lives. I have specific interest and experience working with those struggling with racial identity, sexual identity and gender identity; those healing from and finding their independence from/within dysfunctional family dynamics; folks who have been affected by intimate partner violence and dating violence; and those seeking to uncover patterns of intergenerational trauma within themselves and their family systems.
As a Black, queer femme with mixed ancestry, I carry with me both a personal and professional understanding of the systems of oppression and domination that entangle with identity and wreak havoc in our lives. I have specific interest and experience working with those struggling with racial identity, sexual identity and gender identity; those healing from and finding their independence from/within dysfunctional family dynamics; folks who have been affected by intimate partner violence and dating violence; and those seeking to uncover patterns of intergenerational trauma within themselves and their family systems.
(415) 360-3764 View (415) 360-3764
Photo of Wendi Vecchiarelli, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Wendi Vecchiarelli
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients. Hello and welcome to my practice. I have extensive experience and training in, and enjoy, working with the LGBTQ, trans, poly, sex-positive, sex work, kink, and asexual communities, as well as with anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, IVF and surrogacy, single parenting, and careers in the arts, law, and tech. Please note that I am currently conducting sessions exclusively by phone. You may find that not having to commute to a therapy office saves time and that being able to take a walk while speaking is not only effective but also pleasant.
Currently accepting new clients. Hello and welcome to my practice. I have extensive experience and training in, and enjoy, working with the LGBTQ, trans, poly, sex-positive, sex work, kink, and asexual communities, as well as with anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, IVF and surrogacy, single parenting, and careers in the arts, law, and tech. Please note that I am currently conducting sessions exclusively by phone. You may find that not having to commute to a therapy office saves time and that being able to take a walk while speaking is not only effective but also pleasant.
(415) 574-0965 View (415) 574-0965
Photo of Jenn Torres Duran, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 94115, CA
Jenn Torres Duran
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I have a particular passion for working with both the LGBTQIA+ and latiné community as I have a lot of lived and professional experience with both communities.
Change is terrifying, but it can also be beautiful. It can be difficult to navigate cultural, societal, familial, & even personal expectations to give life to your true authentic self. From navigating anxiety, working to understand your sexual/gender identity, navigating what aspects of your cultural make sense for you, depression, or even just trying to get the world to acknowledge you as the person you are - I'm so glad you haven't given up. The change you're working towards will be worth it and oh-so spectacular. I know you have the power, skills, & desire to Transform Your Story. I'm honored to help you any way I can.
I have a particular passion for working with both the LGBTQIA+ and latiné community as I have a lot of lived and professional experience with both communities.
Change is terrifying, but it can also be beautiful. It can be difficult to navigate cultural, societal, familial, & even personal expectations to give life to your true authentic self. From navigating anxiety, working to understand your sexual/gender identity, navigating what aspects of your cultural make sense for you, depression, or even just trying to get the world to acknowledge you as the person you are - I'm so glad you haven't given up. The change you're working towards will be worth it and oh-so spectacular. I know you have the power, skills, & desire to Transform Your Story. I'm honored to help you any way I can.
(669) 288-1417 View (669) 288-1417
Photo of Deborah V Kohloss, Psychologist in 94115, CA
Deborah V Kohloss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I've been in private practice for twenty years offering psychodynamic therapy and psychoanalysis. I received my B.A. at the Un. of Iowa where I studied poetry and creative writing, my Ph.D. in clinical psychology at U.C. Berkeley, trained in psychoanalysis at PANY-NYU. I am on the Faculty at San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis, currently accepting new patients only in my San Francisco CA office. I take Aetna insurance through Headway. I've worked with children and families on early attachment issues, adults with depression, anxiety, early trauma, creative blocks, gay and lesbian issues, psychosomatic problems.
I've been in private practice for twenty years offering psychodynamic therapy and psychoanalysis. I received my B.A. at the Un. of Iowa where I studied poetry and creative writing, my Ph.D. in clinical psychology at U.C. Berkeley, trained in psychoanalysis at PANY-NYU. I am on the Faculty at San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis, currently accepting new patients only in my San Francisco CA office. I take Aetna insurance through Headway. I've worked with children and families on early attachment issues, adults with depression, anxiety, early trauma, creative blocks, gay and lesbian issues, psychosomatic problems.
(415) 237-4357 View (415) 237-4357
Photo of John Andonakakis, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
John Andonakakis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I work with adults who are struggling with challenging life transitions, repercussions of traumatic experience, challenges with emotional regulation, relationships, and concerns related to psycho-spiritual development. I am proud to serve the LGBT and straight communities. I accept Tele-therapy referrals.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I work with adults who are struggling with challenging life transitions, repercussions of traumatic experience, challenges with emotional regulation, relationships, and concerns related to psycho-spiritual development. I am proud to serve the LGBT and straight communities. I accept Tele-therapy referrals.
(415) 795-2912 View (415) 795-2912
Photo of Stephen Manning, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Stephen Manning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Gay, straight or unlabeled, having a male-affirmative and experienced ally who treats you with respect, competence, understanding and confidentiality can be the next step in better responding to the issues that are affecting you.
Are you a man being troubled by conflict in relationships or dissatisfaction in work? Dark moods, sexual questions? Self-sabotaging ideas, or habits like substances or porn? Doubts or fears about yourself? Being an ally for the male soul under challenge: that is what my work is about.
Gay, straight or unlabeled, having a male-affirmative and experienced ally who treats you with respect, competence, understanding and confidentiality can be the next step in better responding to the issues that are affecting you.
Are you a man being troubled by conflict in relationships or dissatisfaction in work? Dark moods, sexual questions? Self-sabotaging ideas, or habits like substances or porn? Doubts or fears about yourself? Being an ally for the male soul under challenge: that is what my work is about.
(415) 463-4162 View (415) 463-4162
Photo of Matthew Moreno, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Matthew Moreno
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
In addition to working extensively with anxiety issues, I specialize in helping clients improve their relationships with their partners/spouses. I wholeheartedly welcome both straight and LGBT clients into my practice. I often tell clients that everything makes perfect sense (ie. the problems they share and how they react), and all we need to do is find the right pieces of the puzzle to help them understand. It is from this understanding that relief and solutions arise. By truly understanding what anxiety is and isn't, we learn how to navigate it so it doesn't control our lives.
In addition to working extensively with anxiety issues, I specialize in helping clients improve their relationships with their partners/spouses. I wholeheartedly welcome both straight and LGBT clients into my practice. I often tell clients that everything makes perfect sense (ie. the problems they share and how they react), and all we need to do is find the right pieces of the puzzle to help them understand. It is from this understanding that relief and solutions arise. By truly understanding what anxiety is and isn't, we learn how to navigate it so it doesn't control our lives.
(415) 675-1848 View (415) 675-1848
Photo of Heather Buchheim, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Heather Buchheim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I bring my lens as a queer, non-binary, poly, kinky, neurodivergent, radical, white, Jewish person.
How you feel towards yourself can profoundly impact your relationships, work, school, and more. And a lot can make it hard to feel your best. You might be: Exhausted by a relentless self-critical voice...Considering your next steps to feel authentically aligned with your gender and sexuality...Struggling with boundaries and people-pleasing... Stressed and stuck in your closest relationships...Curious about non-monogamy but unsure where to start...Looking for nonjudgmental guidance navigating dynamics within polyamory and kink — not to mention managing all of this under capitalism. No wonder you'd like support!
I bring my lens as a queer, non-binary, poly, kinky, neurodivergent, radical, white, Jewish person.
How you feel towards yourself can profoundly impact your relationships, work, school, and more. And a lot can make it hard to feel your best. You might be: Exhausted by a relentless self-critical voice...Considering your next steps to feel authentically aligned with your gender and sexuality...Struggling with boundaries and people-pleasing... Stressed and stuck in your closest relationships...Curious about non-monogamy but unsure where to start...Looking for nonjudgmental guidance navigating dynamics within polyamory and kink — not to mention managing all of this under capitalism. No wonder you'd like support!
(925) 438-6553 View (925) 438-6553
Photo of CK Olivieri Blackmore, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
CK Olivieri Blackmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
(518) 269-5458 View (518) 269-5458
Photo of Isobel Heath, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Isobel Heath
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I have a particular interest in working with highly sensitive individuals and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Therapy improves relationships. The individuals I work with are often tired of repeating the same patterns again and again, whether it's dating abuse, codependency, or chronic relationship conflict, anxiety, avoidance or indecision. They're ready to get to the root causes and finally make real change. Of course, all relationships start with and reflect your relationship to yourself. If you're dealing with a harsh inner critic, imposter syndrome or low self-worth, this internal relationship deserves your careful attention first.
I have a particular interest in working with highly sensitive individuals and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Therapy improves relationships. The individuals I work with are often tired of repeating the same patterns again and again, whether it's dating abuse, codependency, or chronic relationship conflict, anxiety, avoidance or indecision. They're ready to get to the root causes and finally make real change. Of course, all relationships start with and reflect your relationship to yourself. If you're dealing with a harsh inner critic, imposter syndrome or low self-worth, this internal relationship deserves your careful attention first.
(415) 630-7460 View (415) 630-7460
Photo of Elizabeth Miller, Counselor in 94115, CA
Elizabeth Miller
Counselor, MA, PPS, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I’ve been working as a Mental Health Clinician in various roles for over a decade. I’ve had the privilege of connecting and supporting humans from all ages and backgrounds. I have an integrative holistic approach with an emphasis in bottom-up body-based modalities. I believe everyone has their own unique path to finding balance and healing. I make it a priority to provide a space that is trauma informed, culturally inclusive, and LGBTQIA+ safe. EMDR. IFS. Somatic. Mindfulness. Self-Compassion. Attachment. Reiki.
I’ve been working as a Mental Health Clinician in various roles for over a decade. I’ve had the privilege of connecting and supporting humans from all ages and backgrounds. I have an integrative holistic approach with an emphasis in bottom-up body-based modalities. I believe everyone has their own unique path to finding balance and healing. I make it a priority to provide a space that is trauma informed, culturally inclusive, and LGBTQIA+ safe. EMDR. IFS. Somatic. Mindfulness. Self-Compassion. Attachment. Reiki.
(415) 319-9913 View (415) 319-9913
Photo of Alexandra Haas, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Alexandra Haas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Psychedelic Integration, MAPS trained psychedelic therapist,Addiction/Codependency, Attachment Theory, (Internal) Family Systems, Relationship Conflicts, life transitions, managing work/life balance, gay couples therapy & LGBT acceptance.
I specialize in attachment theory, addiction/addiction related issues, & becoming more aligned with your authentic self. I also enjoy working with couples wanting to strengthen communication skills or rebuild trust within their relationship. Caregivers were the first to teach us how to relate to others. Healthy relationships are often not modeled for us & we wonder why the same patterns repeat. I can help you gain insight into these patterns & we will work together to have healthier relationships. My goal is to get to know you, establish a strong connection, and provide a safe space to begin your healing journey together.
Psychedelic Integration, MAPS trained psychedelic therapist,Addiction/Codependency, Attachment Theory, (Internal) Family Systems, Relationship Conflicts, life transitions, managing work/life balance, gay couples therapy & LGBT acceptance.
I specialize in attachment theory, addiction/addiction related issues, & becoming more aligned with your authentic self. I also enjoy working with couples wanting to strengthen communication skills or rebuild trust within their relationship. Caregivers were the first to teach us how to relate to others. Healthy relationships are often not modeled for us & we wonder why the same patterns repeat. I can help you gain insight into these patterns & we will work together to have healthier relationships. My goal is to get to know you, establish a strong connection, and provide a safe space to begin your healing journey together.
(415) 569-2869 View (415) 569-2869
Photo of A. Maya Borgueta, Psychologist in 94115, CA
A. Maya Borgueta
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
And if you're a woman of color or LGBTQ+, know that you're especially welcome to connect with me.
We put so much effort into our careers – from years of schooling to endless job searching and hours spent at work. Our jobs often become a big part of who we are, affecting how we feel about ourselves and even becoming our main social circle. It's no wonder that our mental health can be strongly influenced by our work lives. That's where I come in. I specialize in helping professional women build healthier relationships with their work, so that they can thrive in their careers and at home.
And if you're a woman of color or LGBTQ+, know that you're especially welcome to connect with me.
We put so much effort into our careers – from years of schooling to endless job searching and hours spent at work. Our jobs often become a big part of who we are, affecting how we feel about ourselves and even becoming our main social circle. It's no wonder that our mental health can be strongly influenced by our work lives. That's where I come in. I specialize in helping professional women build healthier relationships with their work, so that they can thrive in their careers and at home.
(415) 741-5533 View (415) 741-5533
Photo of Jessica Hegedus, Psychologist in 94115, CA
Jessica Hegedus
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I can help you make changes in your life. I work with adults, couples, families and children to address stress, emotion and identity. I provide a nonjudgmental, safe and supportive space for you to explore stuck and challenging relationships, alter unproductive thoughts and behavior patterns and navigate transitions in your life. While therapy doesn't have all the answers, working together on some of these issues can help you to feel more empowered. I enjoy working with LGBTQ families, those who identify as polyamorous, and women of all shapes and sizes.
I can help you make changes in your life. I work with adults, couples, families and children to address stress, emotion and identity. I provide a nonjudgmental, safe and supportive space for you to explore stuck and challenging relationships, alter unproductive thoughts and behavior patterns and navigate transitions in your life. While therapy doesn't have all the answers, working together on some of these issues can help you to feel more empowered. I enjoy working with LGBTQ families, those who identify as polyamorous, and women of all shapes and sizes.
(415) 914-8923 View (415) 914-8923
Photo of Sage Swiatek, Pre-Licensed Professional in 94115, CA
Sage Swiatek
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Healing isn't something we do best in isolation. As a therapist, I work with clients to build greater connection and community to support them on their path. My clients are women and LGBTQIA+ folks seeking therapy where they can show up and be seen as their authentic selves. Many have a history of trauma or have experienced interpersonal violence, such as domestic abuse or sexual assault. Others are working to manage chronic stress and anxiety at work or at home. Whatever concerns are bringing you to my (online) office today, I'll work with you from a place of respect, curiosity, and collaboration.
Healing isn't something we do best in isolation. As a therapist, I work with clients to build greater connection and community to support them on their path. My clients are women and LGBTQIA+ folks seeking therapy where they can show up and be seen as their authentic selves. Many have a history of trauma or have experienced interpersonal violence, such as domestic abuse or sexual assault. Others are working to manage chronic stress and anxiety at work or at home. Whatever concerns are bringing you to my (online) office today, I'll work with you from a place of respect, curiosity, and collaboration.
(415) 741-5533 View (415) 741-5533
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.