Photo of Larry Tonberg Edwards, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Larry Tonberg Edwards
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
LGBTQ focus on identity, sexuality, internalized homophobia, and nontraditional relationships.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to develop a new compassionate understanding of yourself and your relationship to others. Whether you are looking for symptom relief or personal growth, the work of psychotherapy begins with establishing a trusting relationship with the therapist who will be your guide, ally, and occasionally your nemesis in exploration. I encourage my clients to become relentlessly curious about themselves by carefully looking at their past and present relationships and the patterns of their emotional and psychological lives.
LGBTQ focus on identity, sexuality, internalized homophobia, and nontraditional relationships.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to develop a new compassionate understanding of yourself and your relationship to others. Whether you are looking for symptom relief or personal growth, the work of psychotherapy begins with establishing a trusting relationship with the therapist who will be your guide, ally, and occasionally your nemesis in exploration. I encourage my clients to become relentlessly curious about themselves by carefully looking at their past and present relationships and the patterns of their emotional and psychological lives.
(510) 403-8479 View (510) 403-8479
Photo of Niku (Nick) Ashok Shah, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Niku (Nick) Ashok Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
As a queer, South Asian American therapist, I specialize in providing body-centered psychodynamic therapy to Queer, Trans, Non-Binary, people of color and immigrants of the diasporas. With a relational and somatic approach in treatment, I can help you manage depression, anxiety, overwhelm, worry, stress and dis-ease. My hope is to help you heal trauma, manage dissociation, build insight around how your mind works and compassionately transform unhelpful internalized messages. I specialize in working with adults and teens.
As a queer, South Asian American therapist, I specialize in providing body-centered psychodynamic therapy to Queer, Trans, Non-Binary, people of color and immigrants of the diasporas. With a relational and somatic approach in treatment, I can help you manage depression, anxiety, overwhelm, worry, stress and dis-ease. My hope is to help you heal trauma, manage dissociation, build insight around how your mind works and compassionately transform unhelpful internalized messages. I specialize in working with adults and teens.
(510) 473-2440 View (510) 473-2440
Photo of Abby Weintraub, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Abby Weintraub
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Welcome! I work with people across many areas, but those who seek me out tend to be queer/LGBTQIAA2+, neurodivergent in some way, trans/non-binary/gender non-conforming, chronically or acutely ill, disabled, fat-identified and/or working on an empowered relationship with their body, polyamorous, kinky, sex workers, and non-traditional family structures. I'll be with you every step of the way as you move from shame to self-compassion, and work through the expression of anger, sadness, and grief around what you've lost, or what you never got to have.
Welcome! I work with people across many areas, but those who seek me out tend to be queer/LGBTQIAA2+, neurodivergent in some way, trans/non-binary/gender non-conforming, chronically or acutely ill, disabled, fat-identified and/or working on an empowered relationship with their body, polyamorous, kinky, sex workers, and non-traditional family structures. I'll be with you every step of the way as you move from shame to self-compassion, and work through the expression of anger, sadness, and grief around what you've lost, or what you never got to have.
(510) 890-3436 View (510) 890-3436
Photo of Mischa Freeman, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
Mischa Freeman
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I work with individuals and couples across many backgrounds, particularly within queer and trans community, kink and polyamory, and people who are in recovery and survivors.
Hi there, I’m glad you’re here. I know that looking for a therapist can be hard, especially when you’re hurting or feeling low. I may be able to help. You might feel lonely, anxious, or full of guilt…or you might not know what you feel. You may be confused about the choices you make in life, or you may feel frustrated with the unjust world you live in. Many critical thought patterns, painful feelings, and unwanted behaviors started out as survival strategies to protect us during difficult life experiences. These strategies helped us cope in the past, but can lead to conflict and suffering in the present.
I work with individuals and couples across many backgrounds, particularly within queer and trans community, kink and polyamory, and people who are in recovery and survivors.
Hi there, I’m glad you’re here. I know that looking for a therapist can be hard, especially when you’re hurting or feeling low. I may be able to help. You might feel lonely, anxious, or full of guilt…or you might not know what you feel. You may be confused about the choices you make in life, or you may feel frustrated with the unjust world you live in. Many critical thought patterns, painful feelings, and unwanted behaviors started out as survival strategies to protect us during difficult life experiences. These strategies helped us cope in the past, but can lead to conflict and suffering in the present.
(510) 949-3808 View (510) 949-3808
Photo of Celine Williams Thea Integrative Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Celine Williams Thea Integrative Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
I specialize in working with teens, couples, and adults within the LGBTQIA+ community, and gender nonconforming, trans, polyamorous, and those who identify as kinky/sexually expansive.
You have the power to harness your unique experiences and strengths to truly thrive, and I can show you how. Hi, my name is Celine, and I will support your in-depth self learning to embrace the joy of your individuality. Taking a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach, I will meet you in your stage of healing to empower you to integrate and understand your formative life experiences. If you feel that your lifestyle or mental health is not matching who you would like to become, I can guide you there. Together, we will make a plan to help you imagine and achieve your most Authentic Self and live a fulfilling life.
I specialize in working with teens, couples, and adults within the LGBTQIA+ community, and gender nonconforming, trans, polyamorous, and those who identify as kinky/sexually expansive.
You have the power to harness your unique experiences and strengths to truly thrive, and I can show you how. Hi, my name is Celine, and I will support your in-depth self learning to embrace the joy of your individuality. Taking a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach, I will meet you in your stage of healing to empower you to integrate and understand your formative life experiences. If you feel that your lifestyle or mental health is not matching who you would like to become, I can guide you there. Together, we will make a plan to help you imagine and achieve your most Authentic Self and live a fulfilling life.
(925) 722-5853 View (925) 722-5853
Photo of Walt Odets, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Walt Odets
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
My practice is devoted to therapy with gay men and counseling for gay couples. I specialize in gay, bisexual and trans issues, including relationships, intimacy and sex, as well as depression, anxiety, trauma, isolation and HIV. I have written extensively about the psychological and social issues of gay men and gay communities. My most recent book, released by Farrar, Straus and Giroux (and Penguin Random House in the U.K.), is "Out of the Shadows: Reimagining Gay Men's Lives."
My practice is devoted to therapy with gay men and counseling for gay couples. I specialize in gay, bisexual and trans issues, including relationships, intimacy and sex, as well as depression, anxiety, trauma, isolation and HIV. I have written extensively about the psychological and social issues of gay men and gay communities. My most recent book, released by Farrar, Straus and Giroux (and Penguin Random House in the U.K.), is "Out of the Shadows: Reimagining Gay Men's Lives."
(510) 858-2863 View (510) 858-2863
Photo of Max Kopeikin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Max Kopeikin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, PgDip, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I help adults and teens looking to become more aware, learn and better themselves. Maybe there is something that needs to shift/change or maybe it is just a growth-oriented process. I have done a lot of my work with people who identify as Trans/Gender Non-Conforming/Nonbinary. Other queer populations who I have a lot of experience helping include couples, polyamorous relationships, the Latinx community, long-term HIV survivors, and gay/Queer men. My work celebrates diverse genders, sexualities and kink identities. My ideal client is open to work in a way that combines talk therapy, yoga/somatic approaches and art-based therapies.
I help adults and teens looking to become more aware, learn and better themselves. Maybe there is something that needs to shift/change or maybe it is just a growth-oriented process. I have done a lot of my work with people who identify as Trans/Gender Non-Conforming/Nonbinary. Other queer populations who I have a lot of experience helping include couples, polyamorous relationships, the Latinx community, long-term HIV survivors, and gay/Queer men. My work celebrates diverse genders, sexualities and kink identities. My ideal client is open to work in a way that combines talk therapy, yoga/somatic approaches and art-based therapies.
(628) 244-3943 View (628) 244-3943
Photo of Ida Ahmadi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Ida Ahmadi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612
Waitlist for new clients
While I specialize in working with queer & trans adolescents, individuals, and couples—I love working with all kinds of people from diverse backgrounds, ages, sexualities, and relationship styles.
If you've ever felt lost or stuck in a painful pattern or conflict, or struggle with overwhelming emotions, or have trouble connecting with them, therapy with me is a profound way to discover yourself again and have new experiences. To restore balance and flexibility, and to reawaken your inherent capacity for joy and resilience. I listen with attention, empathy, & curiosity as we encounter and explore your conflicts, pains, and desires. We accomplish your goals by concentrating on what is important to you in a space where you will be listened to and heard, and where we will share an honest & accurate reflection of your experience.
While I specialize in working with queer & trans adolescents, individuals, and couples—I love working with all kinds of people from diverse backgrounds, ages, sexualities, and relationship styles.
If you've ever felt lost or stuck in a painful pattern or conflict, or struggle with overwhelming emotions, or have trouble connecting with them, therapy with me is a profound way to discover yourself again and have new experiences. To restore balance and flexibility, and to reawaken your inherent capacity for joy and resilience. I listen with attention, empathy, & curiosity as we encounter and explore your conflicts, pains, and desires. We accomplish your goals by concentrating on what is important to you in a space where you will be listened to and heard, and where we will share an honest & accurate reflection of your experience.
(510) 256-7495 View (510) 256-7495
Photo of Justin Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Justin Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I want to thank you for being here, for taking this very large step towards your growth and towards enhancing your wellbeing. Whether you're looking for support with a specific issue or to build on your insights and quality of life, I am here for you. I am a queer therapist and enjoy working with other LGBTQ+ individuals. I also enjoy working with adults, teens, and couples of all identities and intersections. I look forward to connecting with you.
I want to thank you for being here, for taking this very large step towards your growth and towards enhancing your wellbeing. Whether you're looking for support with a specific issue or to build on your insights and quality of life, I am here for you. I am a queer therapist and enjoy working with other LGBTQ+ individuals. I also enjoy working with adults, teens, and couples of all identities and intersections. I look forward to connecting with you.
(510) 422-1031 View (510) 422-1031
Photo of Frankie Phipps, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oakland, CA
Frankie Phipps
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Counseling, to me, is a collaborative space where clients are empowered to explore, find their own path, and work towards their goals. I’m a queer, neurodiverse counselor, and while I am especially passionate about discussing gender, sexuality, and neurodiversity with clients, I enjoy working on a variety of concerns with clients of any identity or experience. Therapy with me often includes building self-awareness, learning and practicing validation, and challenging oneself to make desired changes at a realistic pace.
Counseling, to me, is a collaborative space where clients are empowered to explore, find their own path, and work towards their goals. I’m a queer, neurodiverse counselor, and while I am especially passionate about discussing gender, sexuality, and neurodiversity with clients, I enjoy working on a variety of concerns with clients of any identity or experience. Therapy with me often includes building self-awareness, learning and practicing validation, and challenging oneself to make desired changes at a realistic pace.
View
Photo of Heather Buchheim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Heather Buchheim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
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 Quetzal Francois, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Quetzal Francois
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
As a mixed-race queer woman I hold an intimate understanding of the need for a therapeutic approach that is intersectional.
I believe that inside each of our struggles there is a choice and it's from this place that we can reconnect to and reclaim our inherent wisdom and power. My intention in our work together is to help shed light on the path to help guide you home to yourself
As a mixed-race queer woman I hold an intimate understanding of the need for a therapeutic approach that is intersectional.
I believe that inside each of our struggles there is a choice and it's from this place that we can reconnect to and reclaim our inherent wisdom and power. My intention in our work together is to help shed light on the path to help guide you home to yourself
(341) 444-2078 View (341) 444-2078
Photo of J Julian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
J J Julian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94606
I am a queer artist, activist and therapist. I believe deeply in healing, and my practice as a therapist is one way I use my own healing journey to inform and create space for others to explore theirs. I seek to center my work on empowering and supporting people in the LGBTQIA+ community navigating all the emotional work it takes to exist in an oppressive culture - anxiety, depression, relationships, sex, gender, substance use, family, housing, employment, etc. Whether directly or indirectly through my practice, I also work to uplift and center the empowerment of queer, trans*, Black, indigenous and people of color (QTBIPOC).
I am a queer artist, activist and therapist. I believe deeply in healing, and my practice as a therapist is one way I use my own healing journey to inform and create space for others to explore theirs. I seek to center my work on empowering and supporting people in the LGBTQIA+ community navigating all the emotional work it takes to exist in an oppressive culture - anxiety, depression, relationships, sex, gender, substance use, family, housing, employment, etc. Whether directly or indirectly through my practice, I also work to uplift and center the empowerment of queer, trans*, Black, indigenous and people of color (QTBIPOC).
(510) 800-7282 View (510) 800-7282
Photo of Mikaela A Wapman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Mikaela A Wapman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601
I am passionate about working with queer and polyamorous people! I specialize in working with those navigating fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and parenting.
Many people want to change in some way: to feel more ease, more pleasure, less anxiety, more freedom, greater connection. I offer a reliably warm space for clients to discover what they want to feel and experience in their lives. With a balance of curiosity and direction, I partner with clients to understand their strengths and challenges, to take action in alignment with their desires. As clarity and agency develop, we stabilize and encourage the emerging self. I think of this process as cultivating the capacity to hold steady in ourselves to connect truly with others, so that we can feel a sense of vitality and ease in our lives.
I am passionate about working with queer and polyamorous people! I specialize in working with those navigating fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and parenting.
Many people want to change in some way: to feel more ease, more pleasure, less anxiety, more freedom, greater connection. I offer a reliably warm space for clients to discover what they want to feel and experience in their lives. With a balance of curiosity and direction, I partner with clients to understand their strengths and challenges, to take action in alignment with their desires. As clarity and agency develop, we stabilize and encourage the emerging self. I think of this process as cultivating the capacity to hold steady in ourselves to connect truly with others, so that we can feel a sense of vitality and ease in our lives.
(510) 488-1327 View (510) 488-1327
Photo of Julia Simone Fogelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Julia Simone Fogelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I work from a poly-friendly, kink-knowledgeable, queer- and gender-affirming perspective.
Welcome! I offer psychotherapy to adults, couples and other relationship configurations, families and teens, as well as sex therapy. I am a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT and am also a gender care provider. I believe therapy is a collaborative process; you can think of me as a companion as we travel down the roads of your growth together. If you have been thinking about starting therapy, I invite you to contact me. I am committed to helping my clients become the most authentic version of themselves.
I work from a poly-friendly, kink-knowledgeable, queer- and gender-affirming perspective.
Welcome! I offer psychotherapy to adults, couples and other relationship configurations, families and teens, as well as sex therapy. I am a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT and am also a gender care provider. I believe therapy is a collaborative process; you can think of me as a companion as we travel down the roads of your growth together. If you have been thinking about starting therapy, I invite you to contact me. I am committed to helping my clients become the most authentic version of themselves.
(510) 681-0729 View (510) 681-0729
Photo of Chelsea DeMarte, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Chelsea DeMarte
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
While I work with diverse individuals from all walks of life, I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ community and regularly integrate EMDR into treatment.
Navigating through our human journey can be daunting, and everyone can benefit from support along the way. My role as a therapist is to help you gain more insight into the nature of your inner world and a greater perspective of your outer circumstances so that you can become empowered to create the intentional and meaningful life that you truly desire. With compassion and deep presence, we will identify unconscious patterns that are limiting you so that you can gain the awareness and tools needed to create effective changes for yourself.
While I work with diverse individuals from all walks of life, I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ community and regularly integrate EMDR into treatment.
Navigating through our human journey can be daunting, and everyone can benefit from support along the way. My role as a therapist is to help you gain more insight into the nature of your inner world and a greater perspective of your outer circumstances so that you can become empowered to create the intentional and meaningful life that you truly desire. With compassion and deep presence, we will identify unconscious patterns that are limiting you so that you can gain the awareness and tools needed to create effective changes for yourself.
(510) 944-0842 View (510) 944-0842
Photo of Ilona Margiotta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Ilona Margiotta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I have extensive experience working with lesbian, queer-identified, transgender and gender expansive folks, individuals living with HIV/AIDS, and those exploring their relationship to sexuality, kink, and gender.
With each of my clients, I cultivate a compassionate, non-judgmental, and supportive environment. I believe that the therapeutic relationship provides a safe space for identity exploration, so that you can more fully embody your truth in your day-to-day life. While a sense of progress is integral to the therapeutic journey, we will create a personalized understanding of what growth looks like for you, rather than settling for more prescriptive goals. As a relational therapist, I help people foster deeper understanding and self-awareness, overcome unhelpful and defeating patterns, and build self-esteem.
I have extensive experience working with lesbian, queer-identified, transgender and gender expansive folks, individuals living with HIV/AIDS, and those exploring their relationship to sexuality, kink, and gender.
With each of my clients, I cultivate a compassionate, non-judgmental, and supportive environment. I believe that the therapeutic relationship provides a safe space for identity exploration, so that you can more fully embody your truth in your day-to-day life. While a sense of progress is integral to the therapeutic journey, we will create a personalized understanding of what growth looks like for you, rather than settling for more prescriptive goals. As a relational therapist, I help people foster deeper understanding and self-awareness, overcome unhelpful and defeating patterns, and build self-esteem.
(914) 819-5608 View (914) 819-5608
Photo of Claire Perelman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Claire Perelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
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 Josephine Kelly, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oakland, CA
Josephine Kelly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, people who are longing for intimacy, but feel like their trauma is holding them back.
Is acceptance even worth it if it means showing up inauthentically? How would your life change if you didn’t abandon parts of yourself to find belonging? As a queer & trans affirming, kink aware, and trauma-informed therapist I'll invite you to explore the depths of your inner world. I’ll sit with you and be a witness to your story, no matter how beautiful or horrifying. I want to hear what’s taboo, subversive and usually unspoken. I believe once you confront the fear that's holding you back you can finally figure out how to make the most of this wild and precious life.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, people who are longing for intimacy, but feel like their trauma is holding them back.
Is acceptance even worth it if it means showing up inauthentically? How would your life change if you didn’t abandon parts of yourself to find belonging? As a queer & trans affirming, kink aware, and trauma-informed therapist I'll invite you to explore the depths of your inner world. I’ll sit with you and be a witness to your story, no matter how beautiful or horrifying. I want to hear what’s taboo, subversive and usually unspoken. I believe once you confront the fear that's holding you back you can finally figure out how to make the most of this wild and precious life.
(510) 983-7359 View (510) 983-7359
Photo of Kelly Howard, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Kelly Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed, sex positive psychotherapist offering Telehealth sessions to couples and individuals in California. My practice is affirming and supportive for gender, sexuality, and relationship diversity (GSRD) from early adulthood to later life. With a nurturing and non-judgmental approach, I empower people to explore their desires, overcome obstacles, and create fulfilling relationships. I aim to provide a grounded and warm space for folks to explore the parts of themselves that are challenging to sit with alone. I am kink affirming, queer affirming, and non-monogamy affirming!
I am a trauma-informed, sex positive psychotherapist offering Telehealth sessions to couples and individuals in California. My practice is affirming and supportive for gender, sexuality, and relationship diversity (GSRD) from early adulthood to later life. With a nurturing and non-judgmental approach, I empower people to explore their desires, overcome obstacles, and create fulfilling relationships. I aim to provide a grounded and warm space for folks to explore the parts of themselves that are challenging to sit with alone. I am kink affirming, queer affirming, and non-monogamy affirming!
(341) 758-5091 View (341) 758-5091
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.