Photo of John Cabonce, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Beverly Hills, CA
John Cabonce
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC, ASW, PPS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+, trauma survivors, teens, adults, and couples.
Welcome new clients! Do traumatic memories impact different areas of your life? You tried so hard to cope with them, and yet they still affect you, your relationships, and your hopes for the future. The trauma limits your capacity to move on to the next chapter and hold you back from creating your preferred life story. The trauma does not get the final say on how you live your life. What if I tell you that you are able to reclaim that life you have always wanted, as you get in touch with your strengths and values in a safe space to create your solutions and build hope. You are the author of your story! Let me help you write it.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+, trauma survivors, teens, adults, and couples.
Welcome new clients! Do traumatic memories impact different areas of your life? You tried so hard to cope with them, and yet they still affect you, your relationships, and your hopes for the future. The trauma limits your capacity to move on to the next chapter and hold you back from creating your preferred life story. The trauma does not get the final say on how you live your life. What if I tell you that you are able to reclaim that life you have always wanted, as you get in touch with your strengths and values in a safe space to create your solutions and build hope. You are the author of your story! Let me help you write it.
(442) 233-3895 View (442) 233-3895
Photo of Rainer Geissler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Rainer Geissler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90209  (Online Only)
I'm proud to support the LGBTQ+, sex-positive, polyamorous, and non-monogamy communities and consider sexuality to be an important part of life that should be fun for everyone.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in Los Angeles, California. I strive to create an environment of compassion, authenticity and understanding, inclusive and welcoming to all clients. In working with me, you will identify the thoughts, feelings, behaviors and beliefs that are preventing you from living joyfully. I work with you to help you discover your strengths and capabilities so that you can live a life that is meaningful, rewarding and free from conflict. I believe that therapy must be engaging, non-judgmental, and supportive to facilitate growth.
I'm proud to support the LGBTQ+, sex-positive, polyamorous, and non-monogamy communities and consider sexuality to be an important part of life that should be fun for everyone.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in Los Angeles, California. I strive to create an environment of compassion, authenticity and understanding, inclusive and welcoming to all clients. In working with me, you will identify the thoughts, feelings, behaviors and beliefs that are preventing you from living joyfully. I work with you to help you discover your strengths and capabilities so that you can live a life that is meaningful, rewarding and free from conflict. I believe that therapy must be engaging, non-judgmental, and supportive to facilitate growth.
(415) 322-0761 View (415) 322-0761
Photo of Elizabeth Green, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Elizabeth Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Elizabeth. My pronouns are they/them/elle. I identify as a bicultural nonbinary therapist (Mexican-American). I have worked with the LGBT community for several years connecting clients to not only mental health, but medical gender affirming care as well.
Hello, my name is Elizabeth. My pronouns are they/them/elle. I identify as a bicultural nonbinary therapist (Mexican-American). I have worked with the LGBT community for several years connecting clients to not only mental health, but medical gender affirming care as well.
(619) 350-0309 View (619) 350-0309
Photo of Kai Korpak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Kai Korpak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
As a queer transgender therapist, I believe there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to living our lives. The same goes for therapy - there isn't a "right way" to do it. In my practice, I am committed to helping individuals tap into their personal strengths and uncover a path that is meaningful and fulfilling. I trust that my clients are the experts on their own lives and have the skills and tools they need to navigate their problems. However, I'm here to provide support and guidance when they need it.
As a queer transgender therapist, I believe there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to living our lives. The same goes for therapy - there isn't a "right way" to do it. In my practice, I am committed to helping individuals tap into their personal strengths and uncover a path that is meaningful and fulfilling. I trust that my clients are the experts on their own lives and have the skills and tools they need to navigate their problems. However, I'm here to provide support and guidance when they need it.
(773) 862-8454 View (773) 862-8454
Photo of Dann Grindeman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Dann Grindeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
I am eager to help LGBT and straight couples improve the quality of their relationships"”to move away from surface anger to the vulnerable expression of deeper emotions, like disappointment, sadness and fear. The ultimate goal is to increase the level of connection and trust for a loving couple. My work with couples and individuals addresses emotionally focused topics that promote stronger relationships, interpersonal growth, and deep healing. Specifically, I seek to understand the "framework" of connections to others, cultivate "valuing of differences" between us and others, and promote the growth of a confident "sense of self.
I am eager to help LGBT and straight couples improve the quality of their relationships"”to move away from surface anger to the vulnerable expression of deeper emotions, like disappointment, sadness and fear. The ultimate goal is to increase the level of connection and trust for a loving couple. My work with couples and individuals addresses emotionally focused topics that promote stronger relationships, interpersonal growth, and deep healing. Specifically, I seek to understand the "framework" of connections to others, cultivate "valuing of differences" between us and others, and promote the growth of a confident "sense of self.
(424) 788-2869 View (424) 788-2869
Photo of Dr. Karla Mayorga, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Dr. Karla Mayorga
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90211  (Online Only)
I specialized in helping adult individuals that are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, relationship, LGBTQ+, school/vocational, women, men, grief, trauma, immigration, & cultural issues.
You are probably looking for immediate help due to a crisis or some pressing issue. You might be struggling with test anxiety or may need help dealing with a break-up and/or finding your soul mate. You might also be curious about therapy & what it can do. I am glad you found me & I am here to help you achieve a better tomorrow. I provide a warm and nonjudgmental environment where you can feel comfortable and at ease. The therapeutic work is a collaborative effort between therapist & client. If you are ready to make changes, let's do it together. Remember, Hope plus action equal success. Today is the best day to start. Call me!
I specialized in helping adult individuals that are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, relationship, LGBTQ+, school/vocational, women, men, grief, trauma, immigration, & cultural issues.
You are probably looking for immediate help due to a crisis or some pressing issue. You might be struggling with test anxiety or may need help dealing with a break-up and/or finding your soul mate. You might also be curious about therapy & what it can do. I am glad you found me & I am here to help you achieve a better tomorrow. I provide a warm and nonjudgmental environment where you can feel comfortable and at ease. The therapeutic work is a collaborative effort between therapist & client. If you are ready to make changes, let's do it together. Remember, Hope plus action equal success. Today is the best day to start. Call me!
(747) 285-7050 View (747) 285-7050
Photo of Michael Southerland, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Michael Southerland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
In addition to my primary experience, I have experience in working with those in the LGBT community and gay men living with HIV/AIDS.
My ideal client has the potential to recognize that they have the answer lies within and that I, as a therapist, am there to help them find the answer within themselves. All of us seeking therapy have that potential within ourselves. I am trained and skilled in working with all ages. I have experience in working with clients with different cultural backgrounds, especially LGBT clients.
In addition to my primary experience, I have experience in working with those in the LGBT community and gay men living with HIV/AIDS.
My ideal client has the potential to recognize that they have the answer lies within and that I, as a therapist, am there to help them find the answer within themselves. All of us seeking therapy have that potential within ourselves. I am trained and skilled in working with all ages. I have experience in working with clients with different cultural backgrounds, especially LGBT clients.
(323) 473-5015 View (323) 473-5015
Photo of Macayla Meyers, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Beverly Hills, CA
Macayla Meyers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community with lived experience, I am committed to providing compassionate and affirming care to this population.
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community with lived experience, I am committed to providing compassionate and affirming care to this population.
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
(949) 776-8428 View (949) 776-8428
Photo of CopeHouse Collective, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
CopeHouse Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210  (Online Only)
We work with individuals and couples on issues of sex & intimacy, security, attachment, trauma, non-monogamy, kink, the LGBTQ+ community, body image, disordered eating, and more.
We are a group psychotherapy practice offering Telehealth therapy for California residents. Our team is made up of Licensed and Registered Associate Therapists with a variety of different specialties, training, strengths, styles, and identities.
We work with individuals and couples on issues of sex & intimacy, security, attachment, trauma, non-monogamy, kink, the LGBTQ+ community, body image, disordered eating, and more.
We are a group psychotherapy practice offering Telehealth therapy for California residents. Our team is made up of Licensed and Registered Associate Therapists with a variety of different specialties, training, strengths, styles, and identities.
(424) 667-5824 View (424) 667-5824
Photo of Rick (Richard B.) Deaton, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Rick (Richard B.) Deaton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
I treat both couples and individuals (18+) and tailor psychotherapy to meet the goals and needs of the patient. The therapeutic relationship is especially important and my goal is to provide a collaborative and interactive psychotherapy experience. I have almost 20 years experience treating people who experience depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder and symptoms of alcohol and drug abuse. I also have the experience and privilege of serving a culturally and ethnically diverse population, including the gay and lesbian community. My office is located on Beverly Boulevard across the street from El Coyote Restaurant.
I treat both couples and individuals (18+) and tailor psychotherapy to meet the goals and needs of the patient. The therapeutic relationship is especially important and my goal is to provide a collaborative and interactive psychotherapy experience. I have almost 20 years experience treating people who experience depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder and symptoms of alcohol and drug abuse. I also have the experience and privilege of serving a culturally and ethnically diverse population, including the gay and lesbian community. My office is located on Beverly Boulevard across the street from El Coyote Restaurant.
(213) 400-2434 View (213) 400-2434
Photo of Dr. Luke Allen, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Dr. Luke Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210  (Online Only)
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
(341) 895-5594 View (341) 895-5594
Photo of Diosa Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Diosa Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
We provide resources and a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community by providing access to LGBTQ+ affirming therapists.
Now accepting new patients via Telehealth or in person in Victorville, CA. Diosa Counseling Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community mental health center.
We provide resources and a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community by providing access to LGBTQ+ affirming therapists.
Now accepting new patients via Telehealth or in person in Victorville, CA. Diosa Counseling Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community mental health center.
(442) 259-1462 View (442) 259-1462
Photo of Dr. Jennifer A Boisvert, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Dr. Jennifer A Boisvert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212  (Online Only)
I specialize in eating disorders and weight disorders in women and men of all ages. I am passionate about this specialty. My other specialties include body image issues, anxiety disorders, LGBT, gender and sexuality issues, mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, health and wellness issues, relationship issues, and life transition issues. My unique background has included working with racially, ethnically, culturally, sexually and spiritually diverse individuals, including soldiers returning from combat with PTSD. I have a heart for alleviating human suffering, offering a safe, comfortable, welcoming space in which to explore painful experiences. I am sensitive, gentle, understanding and caring.
I specialize in eating disorders and weight disorders in women and men of all ages. I am passionate about this specialty. My other specialties include body image issues, anxiety disorders, LGBT, gender and sexuality issues, mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, health and wellness issues, relationship issues, and life transition issues. My unique background has included working with racially, ethnically, culturally, sexually and spiritually diverse individuals, including soldiers returning from combat with PTSD. I have a heart for alleviating human suffering, offering a safe, comfortable, welcoming space in which to explore painful experiences. I am sensitive, gentle, understanding and caring.
(562) 606-1094 View (562) 606-1094
Photo of Cary Frank Schwimmer, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Cary Frank Schwimmer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
Testing/evaluation for pre-treatment transgender.
I have over 30 years of experience in working with adults. I am an expert in the treatment of anxiety and depression. If I am not in your insurance network I can still work with you. I will help you to get reimbursement. I have a wide range of knowledge about anxiety, depression, OCD, panic disorder, addictions, fears, relationship issues, PTSD, phobias and family issues. One Specialty: Childhood and Adult Trauma. I believe that the exploration of your life helps us to understand who you are today. 20 years of experience with EMDR. Neurofeedback for anxiety, ADHD, brain fog, TBI, depression, concussion and a range of other issues.
Testing/evaluation for pre-treatment transgender.
I have over 30 years of experience in working with adults. I am an expert in the treatment of anxiety and depression. If I am not in your insurance network I can still work with you. I will help you to get reimbursement. I have a wide range of knowledge about anxiety, depression, OCD, panic disorder, addictions, fears, relationship issues, PTSD, phobias and family issues. One Specialty: Childhood and Adult Trauma. I believe that the exploration of your life helps us to understand who you are today. 20 years of experience with EMDR. Neurofeedback for anxiety, ADHD, brain fog, TBI, depression, concussion and a range of other issues.
(954) 874-8417 View (954) 874-8417
Photo of Katie Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Katie Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I have extensive experience with addiction as well as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, self-esteem, life transitions, LGBTQIA, family issues, grief and loss, anger management, and stress management.
My goal is to provide you a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to explore the issues you are struggling with and create a plan on how we can resolve those issues together so you can live your best life. I take a holistic, client-centered, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed approach to ensure I am meeting your specific needs. I provide supportive and evidenced based practices to my clients and have worked with both adolescents and adults, utilizing various modalities.
I have extensive experience with addiction as well as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, self-esteem, life transitions, LGBTQIA, family issues, grief and loss, anger management, and stress management.
My goal is to provide you a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to explore the issues you are struggling with and create a plan on how we can resolve those issues together so you can live your best life. I take a holistic, client-centered, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed approach to ensure I am meeting your specific needs. I provide supportive and evidenced based practices to my clients and have worked with both adolescents and adults, utilizing various modalities.
(626) 240-1953 View (626) 240-1953
Photo of Jillian Ziesmer, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Beverly Hills, CA
Jillian Ziesmer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212  (Online Only)
I am here to help you find a deeper understanding of yourself, cultivate personal growth, and improve your relationships. In a collaborative relationship with the client, I explore family dynamics, relationship patterns, and underlying feelings and unconscious drives that impede a sense of well being. Some of the issues I treat include depression, anxiety, substance abuse, recovery, trauma (emotional, physical, sexual), suicidal ideation, grief/loss, cancer survivors, LGBTQ, and pre-marital counseling/relationship/marital issues. I help clients explore their feelings, past experiences, present situations, and hopes for the future.
I am here to help you find a deeper understanding of yourself, cultivate personal growth, and improve your relationships. In a collaborative relationship with the client, I explore family dynamics, relationship patterns, and underlying feelings and unconscious drives that impede a sense of well being. Some of the issues I treat include depression, anxiety, substance abuse, recovery, trauma (emotional, physical, sexual), suicidal ideation, grief/loss, cancer survivors, LGBTQ, and pre-marital counseling/relationship/marital issues. I help clients explore their feelings, past experiences, present situations, and hopes for the future.
(323) 736-3464 View (323) 736-3464
Photo of Rashel Keshmiri, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Rashel Keshmiri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
"Trauma Specialist" My Specialties are in: Depression, anxiety, grief/loss, PTSD, trauma, sex therapy;, sexual dysfunctions, sexual Assault , Vaginismus, Gay issues.
Thank you for considering therapy with me. I am looking forward in meeting you. You will find me to be flexible and sensitive. I enjoy helping individuals in achieving personal growth; in a caring & safe environment. Whether you are suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief/loss, sexual dysfunction, we can work together to resolve your issue and minimize your suffering. Your natural state of being is a gift and is what I work with in psychotherapy to bring out your hidden potentials to surface.
"Trauma Specialist" My Specialties are in: Depression, anxiety, grief/loss, PTSD, trauma, sex therapy;, sexual dysfunctions, sexual Assault , Vaginismus, Gay issues.
Thank you for considering therapy with me. I am looking forward in meeting you. You will find me to be flexible and sensitive. I enjoy helping individuals in achieving personal growth; in a caring & safe environment. Whether you are suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief/loss, sexual dysfunction, we can work together to resolve your issue and minimize your suffering. Your natural state of being is a gift and is what I work with in psychotherapy to bring out your hidden potentials to surface.
(310) 494-7019 View (310) 494-7019
Photo of Carl H. Shubs, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Carl H. Shubs
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
YOUR LIFE'S NOT WORKING THE WAY YOU'D LIKE? Find out why, and we can change it together. Want to be heard and understood? Struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, gay/lesbian/bisexual issues, addictions (substances or behaviors including sex addiction), or infidelities? Want to stay together, but your marriage is rocky? Communication problems or behavior problems disrupting your relationship? DON'T LET OLD PATTERNS GET IN YOUR WAY. Visit my website for more information: http://www.DrCarlShubs.com. NEW BOOK: Traumatic Experiences of Normal Development, available on Amazon.
YOUR LIFE'S NOT WORKING THE WAY YOU'D LIKE? Find out why, and we can change it together. Want to be heard and understood? Struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, gay/lesbian/bisexual issues, addictions (substances or behaviors including sex addiction), or infidelities? Want to stay together, but your marriage is rocky? Communication problems or behavior problems disrupting your relationship? DON'T LET OLD PATTERNS GET IN YOUR WAY. Visit my website for more information: http://www.DrCarlShubs.com. NEW BOOK: Traumatic Experiences of Normal Development, available on Amazon.
(323) 433-6731 View (323) 433-6731
Photo of Mary Naa Adjeley Sowah-Quaye, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Mary Naa Adjeley Sowah-Quaye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90211  (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing care to clients struggling with life transitions, interpersonal challenges, depression, anxiety, bipolar family, and relationship issues. I am also specialize in working with people of color and LGBTQIA+ community
Hello. My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing care to clients struggling with life transitions, interpersonal challenges, depression, anxiety, bipolar family, and relationship issues. I am also specialize in working with people of color and LGBTQIA+ community
(661) 718-4883 View (661) 718-4883
Photo of Anna Lopez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Anna Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
Voted Best Family Therapist in 2021! Our therapists assist individuals, couples, parent/child dyadic relations, family systems, other traditional/non-traditional relationships (ethical non-monogamy). Get assistance with healing in a safe "neutral" space. We listen to your concerns, identify core-rooted issues, and generational patterns that contribute to maladaptive behaviors and patterns. We are culturally competent in Mexican/American, Filipino, and/or African American families. We are LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists.
Voted Best Family Therapist in 2021! Our therapists assist individuals, couples, parent/child dyadic relations, family systems, other traditional/non-traditional relationships (ethical non-monogamy). Get assistance with healing in a safe "neutral" space. We listen to your concerns, identify core-rooted issues, and generational patterns that contribute to maladaptive behaviors and patterns. We are culturally competent in Mexican/American, Filipino, and/or African American families. We are LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists.
(442) 233-3541 View (442) 233-3541

See more therapy options for Beverly Hills


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.