LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Los Angeles, CA
Erika Morris
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
My specialty is LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, and I welcome clients from all sexual orientations and gender identities.
Welcome to a space where you can embrace your true self and explore your journey towards becoming the person you aspire to be. In therapy, I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where you don't have to face life's challenges alone. I'm here to offer you a warm, authentic connection as we work together to navigate your personal stressors, transitions, and past experiences. Drawing from my experience and specialized training, I'll help you move closer to your goals, discover and harness your inner strengths, and cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in your life.
My specialty is LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, and I welcome clients from all sexual orientations and gender identities.
Welcome to a space where you can embrace your true self and explore your journey towards becoming the person you aspire to be. In therapy, I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where you don't have to face life's challenges alone. I'm here to offer you a warm, authentic connection as we work together to navigate your personal stressors, transitions, and past experiences. Drawing from my experience and specialized training, I'll help you move closer to your goals, discover and harness your inner strengths, and cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in your life.
Ashley Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027 (Online Only)
As a queer woman, I am attuned to questions regarding gender and sexuality and welcome clients who are in the process of exploring these and other parts of self.
Hi, I'm Ashley, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 13 years of experience working with adults, couples and families affected by substance use disorders, trauma and acute mental health disorders. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings which include residential, outpatient, community mental health, private practice and teaching graduate students in an adjunct role.
As a queer woman, I am attuned to questions regarding gender and sexuality and welcome clients who are in the process of exploring these and other parts of self.
Hi, I'm Ashley, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 13 years of experience working with adults, couples and families affected by substance use disorders, trauma and acute mental health disorders. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings which include residential, outpatient, community mental health, private practice and teaching graduate students in an adjunct role.
Allison Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
) I specialize in affirmative & sex-positive care with LGBTQIA+ people exploring their sexuality, gender, and relationship-expansive (kink, poly, CNM) identities.
Starting a new relationship is a big step. And one of the most important steps in therapy is finding a therapist to build connection and space for healing. I aim to co-create an attuned, safe, and collaborative relationship. Where we go in your therapeutic journey centers around your goals and individuality. Together, we can explore problem narratives, relationship patterns, oppressions that may impact you, and mind-body connection with warmth, curiosity, and compassion. I hope to accompany you through the (re)discovery of your inherent resilience to pursue growth that enables you to live authentically and explore new possibilities.
) I specialize in affirmative & sex-positive care with LGBTQIA+ people exploring their sexuality, gender, and relationship-expansive (kink, poly, CNM) identities.
Starting a new relationship is a big step. And one of the most important steps in therapy is finding a therapist to build connection and space for healing. I aim to co-create an attuned, safe, and collaborative relationship. Where we go in your therapeutic journey centers around your goals and individuality. Together, we can explore problem narratives, relationship patterns, oppressions that may impact you, and mind-body connection with warmth, curiosity, and compassion. I hope to accompany you through the (re)discovery of your inherent resilience to pursue growth that enables you to live authentically and explore new possibilities.
Philip “Tad” King
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046 (Online Only)
While I work with clients of all sexual orientations, I specialize in work with LGBTQ+ clients.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and addiction. In recent years I have developed a focus on work with couples, utilizing the science of human bonding and love. I have a strength in helping couples decode negative patterns or cycles that keep them feeling disconnected and alone. I will help you build a strong and lasting bond with your partner or spouse that provides a deeper sense of safety and connection.
While I work with clients of all sexual orientations, I specialize in work with LGBTQ+ clients.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and addiction. In recent years I have developed a focus on work with couples, utilizing the science of human bonding and love. I have a strength in helping couples decode negative patterns or cycles that keep them feeling disconnected and alone. I will help you build a strong and lasting bond with your partner or spouse that provides a deeper sense of safety and connection.
Kyle McCurdy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
As a queer therapist, I provide a secure and nurturing space for you to come as you are.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or lost? Is your past weighing you down? It seems like you've tried everything to get through this and you're not getting anywhere. If you feel alone, you don't have to be. Together, we'll find traction and get you back to living a meaningful life.
As a queer therapist, I provide a secure and nurturing space for you to come as you are.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or lost? Is your past weighing you down? It seems like you've tried everything to get through this and you're not getting anywhere. If you feel alone, you don't have to be. Together, we'll find traction and get you back to living a meaningful life.
Sophie Shekarchian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I am passionate and experienced in working with the LGBTQIA community and issues of diversity, such as race, class, and culture.
Finding a therapist who is the right fit is a vital part of the healing process. I engage my clients through curiosity, warmth, direct feedback, and, when fitting, a sense of humor. We will work together to help connect your past with your present in order to move towards greater self-awareness, authenticity, and active participation in all areas of life.
I am passionate and experienced in working with the LGBTQIA community and issues of diversity, such as race, class, and culture.
Finding a therapist who is the right fit is a vital part of the healing process. I engage my clients through curiosity, warmth, direct feedback, and, when fitting, a sense of humor. We will work together to help connect your past with your present in order to move towards greater self-awareness, authenticity, and active participation in all areas of life.
Sarah Brock Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90039
I identify as a queer, femme, Chicana therapist. I provide Psychotherapy that is Intersectional and Trauma-informed treatment. Combining techniques of traditional Psychodynamic Therapy as well as Somatic Therapy together we investigate your past and what is happening currently in your body (physical pain, ailments, sensations) in relation to environmental triggers (systemic racism, queer & trans-phobia, sexism, micro-aggressions), as well as attachment styles that inform your core beliefs to get you to a place of a fully developed and embodied sense of self and well being.
I identify as a queer, femme, Chicana therapist. I provide Psychotherapy that is Intersectional and Trauma-informed treatment. Combining techniques of traditional Psychodynamic Therapy as well as Somatic Therapy together we investigate your past and what is happening currently in your body (physical pain, ailments, sensations) in relation to environmental triggers (systemic racism, queer & trans-phobia, sexism, micro-aggressions), as well as attachment styles that inform your core beliefs to get you to a place of a fully developed and embodied sense of self and well being.
Brandon Gescheidle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064 (Online Only)
I identify as a gay, cisgender man and enjoy working with the chronic pain and queer communities.
I do this work because I genuinely love it. I am very honest and direct with clients and encourage openness from each of us. Therapy is an opportunity to slow down, get reacquainted with ourselves, and engage in vulnerability and playfulness that is too often not accessed. I offer a supportive, completely non-judgmental space where everything and anything is on the table (trust me, as therapists, we’ve heard it all). Trust and comfortability take time, and I respect clients’ pace and readiness to travel in difficult directions. I also promise to (compassionately) hold you accountable to promote growth and healing.
I identify as a gay, cisgender man and enjoy working with the chronic pain and queer communities.
I do this work because I genuinely love it. I am very honest and direct with clients and encourage openness from each of us. Therapy is an opportunity to slow down, get reacquainted with ourselves, and engage in vulnerability and playfulness that is too often not accessed. I offer a supportive, completely non-judgmental space where everything and anything is on the table (trust me, as therapists, we’ve heard it all). Trust and comfortability take time, and I respect clients’ pace and readiness to travel in difficult directions. I also promise to (compassionately) hold you accountable to promote growth and healing.
Jason Rizzo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I work with the LGBTQ+ community, those in the entertainment industry, and many others.
My passion lies in helping you find your path to increased happiness and living a life that is authentically yours. Through our conversations, you will gain deeper insight into elements in your life that might be challenging to shift. Together we will work to understand your experiences, process feelings and create inner peace and acceptance from within.
I work with the LGBTQ+ community, those in the entertainment industry, and many others.
My passion lies in helping you find your path to increased happiness and living a life that is authentically yours. Through our conversations, you will gain deeper insight into elements in your life that might be challenging to shift. Together we will work to understand your experiences, process feelings and create inner peace and acceptance from within.
Matthew Spector
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90039
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+/queer community and also tend to work with individuals and partners of all ages and gender identities dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship concerns, grief, perfectionism, life transitions, and body image issues.
Welcome! My task as your therapist is to first provide a space where you’ll feel free to talk openly and be your truest self. Then, together, we will get to the bottom of whatever it is that may be contributing to the way you're feeling, and collaborate on ways you can begin to feel more at ease, empowered, and in alignment with your personal values, goals, and unique identity. I believe that we all hold the ability to manage life's challenges. To do this, we sometimes need a supportive guide. Enter therapy.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+/queer community and also tend to work with individuals and partners of all ages and gender identities dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship concerns, grief, perfectionism, life transitions, and body image issues.
Welcome! My task as your therapist is to first provide a space where you’ll feel free to talk openly and be your truest self. Then, together, we will get to the bottom of whatever it is that may be contributing to the way you're feeling, and collaborate on ways you can begin to feel more at ease, empowered, and in alignment with your personal values, goals, and unique identity. I believe that we all hold the ability to manage life's challenges. To do this, we sometimes need a supportive guide. Enter therapy.
Connor McCabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
I work with a wide range of people, though through my own personal experience and specialized education, I have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community, creative individuals, couples and those with relational trauma.
Change can feel impossible. No matter how badly we want it, we feel stuck in a loop trying the same things over and over again. We want a sense of relief, for things to feel easier, but it can feel hopeless constantly fighting the same battles. Despite this, I do believe we are all inherently resilient. We possess unique strengths, but they get shielded from our view because societal expectations and past experiences box us into how we think we ‘should’ be or act. We no longer see ourselves as who we actually are, but rather who the world has told us we are. We want to hold more hopeful beliefs about ourselves and the future.
I work with a wide range of people, though through my own personal experience and specialized education, I have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community, creative individuals, couples and those with relational trauma.
Change can feel impossible. No matter how badly we want it, we feel stuck in a loop trying the same things over and over again. We want a sense of relief, for things to feel easier, but it can feel hopeless constantly fighting the same battles. Despite this, I do believe we are all inherently resilient. We possess unique strengths, but they get shielded from our view because societal expectations and past experiences box us into how we think we ‘should’ be or act. We no longer see ourselves as who we actually are, but rather who the world has told us we are. We want to hold more hopeful beliefs about ourselves and the future.
15 Second Videos
Brian Carpenter
Jen Rivers
Andrew Borden
Aaron M. Mason
Robert O'Brien
Anthony Barnes
Leigh Wakeford - Shame Resilience Specialist
Terra Friedman - Open Space Therapy Collective
Eric Burke
Essy Knopf
Jennie Dopf
Chris Datiles
Laura Minero
The Pink Moon Healing Collective
Patrick Tully - Psychotherapist (CA / TX / FL)
Open Space Therapy Collective
Larry A Woodland
Travis Bauer
James Dvorak
David Blacker
Gay Therapy Center
Eric Sullivan
Gay Therapy LA (Ken Howard, LCSW, CST)
Aaron Chavez Martin
Rina Schul
Leonidas Gkimisis
Brian Loveless
Nicholas F Flickinger
Bryan Schnebelt
Chris Tompkins
Mark Chaney-Gay
Steven Su
Hailey Williford
Red Galura
Marina Costanzo
Angela Medrano
Dani Coleman
Bobbie Emetu
Kristen Crowe - Open Space Therapy Collective
Shelby Solomon
Jessica Hyatt
Gregory Cason
Dani Reisbaum
Robin Roemer
Spencer Scott
Emily Sculthorpe
Victoria Maria Gerdts
Amy-Lynn Gerber
Melanie Rashbaum
Dean Stahl
Brian Carpenter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048 (Online Only)
Are you an LGBT person who struggles with coming out, doubts your own self-worth, believes others' negative opinions, or is affected by prejudice and discrimination? I help LGBT folks to be proud of who they are and to empower themselves.
I work with individuals and couples. I address such questions as: Are you having difficulties in your relationships? Do you experience anxiety or depression? Do you just want to feel better about yourself and reach your full potential? And I'm especially qualified to help Creative and LGBT people. Are you a Creative person with high standards for yourself or who has a hard time dealing with rejection? As a long-time member of SAG-AFTRA, I help you to recognize that being creative is hard and to strive for excellence instead of "perfection."
Are you an LGBT person who struggles with coming out, doubts your own self-worth, believes others' negative opinions, or is affected by prejudice and discrimination? I help LGBT folks to be proud of who they are and to empower themselves.
I work with individuals and couples. I address such questions as: Are you having difficulties in your relationships? Do you experience anxiety or depression? Do you just want to feel better about yourself and reach your full potential? And I'm especially qualified to help Creative and LGBT people. Are you a Creative person with high standards for yourself or who has a hard time dealing with rejection? As a long-time member of SAG-AFTRA, I help you to recognize that being creative is hard and to strive for excellence instead of "perfection."
Thomas Mondragon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90029 (Online Only)
With my LGBTQ+ clients, I will actively affirm the exceptional and unquestioned value of your rich identities as we explore what brings you into therapy.
Knowing there are times in life where emotional pain, confusion or stress can bring you to a standstill, my aim is to help you untangle roadblocks that can affect your daily life, how you feel about yourself, and that might disrupt your relationships with others. Together we will find ways to navigate difficult situations and challenges to alleviate emotional distress and suffering, to cope with isolation and loneliness, and to bring hope and purpose back into your life. As a gay person of color, I honor your unique individuality as well as all diverse rich backgrounds to bring about greater empowerment and satisfaction in life.
With my LGBTQ+ clients, I will actively affirm the exceptional and unquestioned value of your rich identities as we explore what brings you into therapy.
Knowing there are times in life where emotional pain, confusion or stress can bring you to a standstill, my aim is to help you untangle roadblocks that can affect your daily life, how you feel about yourself, and that might disrupt your relationships with others. Together we will find ways to navigate difficult situations and challenges to alleviate emotional distress and suffering, to cope with isolation and loneliness, and to bring hope and purpose back into your life. As a gay person of color, I honor your unique individuality as well as all diverse rich backgrounds to bring about greater empowerment and satisfaction in life.
Jen Rivers
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Do you feel like you don’t belong anywhere? Maybe you feel like you’re not good enough. Or not queer enough. Maybe you feel like you don’t fit into queer spaces. Perhaps you just don’t fit into the box assigned to you by society and family. Maybe you've been trapped by trauma(s) you experienced, anxiety, and/or depression. Maybe you’re a person that just wants to explore who you are. I‘m here to help support you as you begin to explore who you are as your true, authentic self.
Do you feel like you don’t belong anywhere? Maybe you feel like you’re not good enough. Or not queer enough. Maybe you feel like you don’t fit into queer spaces. Perhaps you just don’t fit into the box assigned to you by society and family. Maybe you've been trapped by trauma(s) you experienced, anxiety, and/or depression. Maybe you’re a person that just wants to explore who you are. I‘m here to help support you as you begin to explore who you are as your true, authentic self.
Andrew Borden
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048 (Online Only)
I am LGBTQ+ affirmative, sex/kink positive, neurodiversity-affirming, poly/CNM-affirming, practice from a Health at Every Size lens, and use "geek therapy", working primarily with queer folks.
Hi, I'm glad you made it. Asking for and finding support is tough, but this is the first step. Tell me, do you find it difficult to stay motivated throughout the day? Are you constantly ruminating on interactions with others, anxious about whether you said or did the "right" thing? Perhaps you spend most of your time and energy worrying about how others perceive you? Or, maybe you struggle to feel deserving to take up space in a conversation or a room full of people? If you identify as a perfectionist, people-pleaser, over-thinker, or struggle with low self-esteem or self-worth, therapy might help cut through some of that noise.
I am LGBTQ+ affirmative, sex/kink positive, neurodiversity-affirming, poly/CNM-affirming, practice from a Health at Every Size lens, and use "geek therapy", working primarily with queer folks.
Hi, I'm glad you made it. Asking for and finding support is tough, but this is the first step. Tell me, do you find it difficult to stay motivated throughout the day? Are you constantly ruminating on interactions with others, anxious about whether you said or did the "right" thing? Perhaps you spend most of your time and energy worrying about how others perceive you? Or, maybe you struggle to feel deserving to take up space in a conversation or a room full of people? If you identify as a perfectionist, people-pleaser, over-thinker, or struggle with low self-esteem or self-worth, therapy might help cut through some of that noise.
Aaron M. Mason
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am committed to LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy that is anti-racist and trauma-informed.
In life we can sometimes feel stuck in old patterns. Or maybe our sleep, eating, or job performance has changed. Mood, physical health, and mental health are all connected. Brain fog, tiredness, loss of interest (or sleepless nights, jittery days, etc) can mean the balance is off. These are times when therapy can help you understand the issues from a new point of view. Primarily, I see my job as one of listener and guide. Together, we can figure out what's keeping you from being a joyful resilient person. It takes courage and strength to ask for help. I am here if you are curious or ready to begin.
I am committed to LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy that is anti-racist and trauma-informed.
In life we can sometimes feel stuck in old patterns. Or maybe our sleep, eating, or job performance has changed. Mood, physical health, and mental health are all connected. Brain fog, tiredness, loss of interest (or sleepless nights, jittery days, etc) can mean the balance is off. These are times when therapy can help you understand the issues from a new point of view. Primarily, I see my job as one of listener and guide. Together, we can figure out what's keeping you from being a joyful resilient person. It takes courage and strength to ask for help. I am here if you are curious or ready to begin.
Robert O'Brien
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed or caught in an endless loop of personal challenges? If so, you are not alone. Therapy is where you can heal from current stressors, past wounds, and negative thoughts or behavior patterns that unconsciously create recurring problems in life. As an affirmative clinician, I treat LGBTQ clients, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, shame, self-criticism, and trauma disorders. My practice is rooted in helping people improve their self-worth, daily focus, motivation and executive function skills. I also support people navigating relationship and family conflict, grief/loss and career challenges/transitions.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed or caught in an endless loop of personal challenges? If so, you are not alone. Therapy is where you can heal from current stressors, past wounds, and negative thoughts or behavior patterns that unconsciously create recurring problems in life. As an affirmative clinician, I treat LGBTQ clients, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, shame, self-criticism, and trauma disorders. My practice is rooted in helping people improve their self-worth, daily focus, motivation and executive function skills. I also support people navigating relationship and family conflict, grief/loss and career challenges/transitions.
Jake Weinraub
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) specializing in LGBTQ-affirmative individual and group therapy. For the past seven years I have worked in both individual and community mental health, immersing myself in the unique ways anxiety, depression, and histories of trauma impact LGBTQ+ individuals across a spectrum of intersecting identities. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, joyful, and collaborative space for clients to identify and deepen their existing strengths, as well as build new skills.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) specializing in LGBTQ-affirmative individual and group therapy. For the past seven years I have worked in both individual and community mental health, immersing myself in the unique ways anxiety, depression, and histories of trauma impact LGBTQ+ individuals across a spectrum of intersecting identities. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, joyful, and collaborative space for clients to identify and deepen their existing strengths, as well as build new skills.
Anthony Barnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028 (Online Only)
As an openly gay bi-cultural man, I’ve spent the better part of my adult life unlearning the harmful messages our world tells us about what is means to be different - that we’re somehow broken or unworthy. I am here to tell you they are wrong. You are fabulous, vibrant and deserving of all the gifts this world has to offer. I became a therapist to share what I’ve learned and to bring healing not just to queer folks, but to anyone who knows what it feels like to be left out. When we work together, you can expect a safe, affirming, and sometimes silly space where we collaborate to find real solutions you can implement right away.
As an openly gay bi-cultural man, I’ve spent the better part of my adult life unlearning the harmful messages our world tells us about what is means to be different - that we’re somehow broken or unworthy. I am here to tell you they are wrong. You are fabulous, vibrant and deserving of all the gifts this world has to offer. I became a therapist to share what I’ve learned and to bring healing not just to queer folks, but to anyone who knows what it feels like to be left out. When we work together, you can expect a safe, affirming, and sometimes silly space where we collaborate to find real solutions you can implement right away.
Thomas Charles Keenan-Hunt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
41 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I work with individuals and couples, specializing in gay male/LGBTQ populations.
Are you feeling stuck in relationships, jobs, or entrenched beliefs about yourself that may not be valid? Unhealthy thoughts, feelings, behaviors and attachments can create patterns that lead to anxiety, depression, addiction and more. The definition of insanity is “doing the same thing over and over, expecting different results.” If you want to break the cycle, therapy can be a powerful tool in helping you identify problem areas and begin your personal transformation. The process begins with having someone who will listen, understand your needs, uncover stressors and seek solutions.
I work with individuals and couples, specializing in gay male/LGBTQ populations.
Are you feeling stuck in relationships, jobs, or entrenched beliefs about yourself that may not be valid? Unhealthy thoughts, feelings, behaviors and attachments can create patterns that lead to anxiety, depression, addiction and more. The definition of insanity is “doing the same thing over and over, expecting different results.” If you want to break the cycle, therapy can be a powerful tool in helping you identify problem areas and begin your personal transformation. The process begins with having someone who will listen, understand your needs, uncover stressors and seek solutions.
See more therapy options for Los Angeles
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Los Angeles
- Baldwin Hills
- Beverly Hills
- Century City
- Culver City
- Glassell Park
- Hollywood
- Huntington Park
- Playa Vista
- Silver Lake
- View Park
- West Hollywood
- Windsor 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.