Therapists in Orange County, CA
Affirming Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92614
Therapists at Affirming Psychological Services have various subspecialties, such as transgender care, behavioral analysis, and substance abuse treatment.
The clinicians at Affirming Psychological Services are highly experienced in treating trauma, anxiety, and depression. All of our clinicians are also trained in treating the needs of the LGBT+ community, and many of our clinicians have lived experience as part of this community. We are conveniently located in Irvine, CA, and can provide both in person and telehealth services for you and your loved ones. We provide individual, couples, and family therapy as well as psychological testing and diagnostic clarification services. We provide a safe, comforting environment and expert therapists to help you meet your therapeutic goals.
Therapists at Affirming Psychological Services have various subspecialties, such as transgender care, behavioral analysis, and substance abuse treatment.
The clinicians at Affirming Psychological Services are highly experienced in treating trauma, anxiety, and depression. All of our clinicians are also trained in treating the needs of the LGBT+ community, and many of our clinicians have lived experience as part of this community. We are conveniently located in Irvine, CA, and can provide both in person and telehealth services for you and your loved ones. We provide individual, couples, and family therapy as well as psychological testing and diagnostic clarification services. We provide a safe, comforting environment and expert therapists to help you meet your therapeutic goals.
Steven Su
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92832
I have experience working effectively with adults, young adults, and teenagers facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, phase-of-life issues, trauma, and grief. Additionally, I provide couples therapy to enhance relationships and communication skills. My specialization includes supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, racial minorities, Asian Americans, children of immigrants, individuals with autism, and their families.
I have experience working effectively with adults, young adults, and teenagers facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, phase-of-life issues, trauma, and grief. Additionally, I provide couples therapy to enhance relationships and communication skills. My specialization includes supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, racial minorities, Asian Americans, children of immigrants, individuals with autism, and their families.
Hilary Ghozali
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92614
Hilary enjoys working with people who are undergoing life transitions, those who have unique cultural needs, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hilary is an open and objective clinician who provides a safe, non-judgmental space for clients. She believes that respectfulness and acceptance of her clients is key to building a therapeutic relationship. Hilary grew up in Indonesia and understands the unique struggles of clients with diverse backgrounds. Hilary believes that cultural differences play a crucial role in each client’s life. Hilary holds a master's degree in psychology from Pepperdine University and is currently working to obtain her doctorate in clinical psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Hilary enjoys working with people who are undergoing life transitions, those who have unique cultural needs, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hilary is an open and objective clinician who provides a safe, non-judgmental space for clients. She believes that respectfulness and acceptance of her clients is key to building a therapeutic relationship. Hilary grew up in Indonesia and understands the unique struggles of clients with diverse backgrounds. Hilary believes that cultural differences play a crucial role in each client’s life. Hilary holds a master's degree in psychology from Pepperdine University and is currently working to obtain her doctorate in clinical psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Stuart Stock-Tucker
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, MS, CTRS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92663
I also specialize in LGBTQIA+, and addiction.
I am here to help you manage your anxiety, help you battle addiction, cope with traumatic experiences, and discover your identity. It is not only important to me that I help increase your self-esteem, but to help you improve your self-worth and confidence.
I also specialize in LGBTQIA+, and addiction.
I am here to help you manage your anxiety, help you battle addiction, cope with traumatic experiences, and discover your identity. It is not only important to me that I help increase your self-esteem, but to help you improve your self-worth and confidence.
Eliott Gillooly
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I work with children, teenagers, and adults, and I am especially passionate about working with LGBTQ, Disabled, and Neurodivergent individuals of all ages. I am here to create an empathetic and supportive space to assist clients in exploring a range of mental health concerns effectively, including depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, ADHD, Autism, self-harm, suicidal ideation, trauma and PTSD.
I work with children, teenagers, and adults, and I am especially passionate about working with LGBTQ, Disabled, and Neurodivergent individuals of all ages. I am here to create an empathetic and supportive space to assist clients in exploring a range of mental health concerns effectively, including depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, ADHD, Autism, self-harm, suicidal ideation, trauma and PTSD.
Yanel Bueno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92841 (Online Only)
As a non-binary, queer, Latine therapist, I understand the nuance of intersectional identities on our mental health.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA2S+ community, specifically gender and sexual identity exploration, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, codependency, people-pleasing, intergenerational trauma, intimate partner violence, embracing neurodiversity and unmasking, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. Intersectionality is important to my therapeutic space. I find power in vulnerability and encourage you to bring or find your most authentic self to the therapy room. You are valid because you exist! I love challenging folks to reframe negative thinking patterns learned through socialization and embrace the life they want to live.
As a non-binary, queer, Latine therapist, I understand the nuance of intersectional identities on our mental health.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA2S+ community, specifically gender and sexual identity exploration, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, codependency, people-pleasing, intergenerational trauma, intimate partner violence, embracing neurodiversity and unmasking, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. Intersectionality is important to my therapeutic space. I find power in vulnerability and encourage you to bring or find your most authentic self to the therapy room. You are valid because you exist! I love challenging folks to reframe negative thinking patterns learned through socialization and embrace the life they want to live.
Nick Ulrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92835
I believe that one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Beginning in therapy can be a way for you to start to put together the pieces of your life and who you are. And ultimately, you deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. If you're someone that struggles with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, LGBTQIA issues, and past trauma, I'd love to help you work through those challenges. I want to be the therapist that helps you along that journey.
I believe that one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Beginning in therapy can be a way for you to start to put together the pieces of your life and who you are. And ultimately, you deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. If you're someone that struggles with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, LGBTQIA issues, and past trauma, I'd love to help you work through those challenges. I want to be the therapist that helps you along that journey.
Monique Merritt Romick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
I am a client-centered, Black, queer therapist.
Welcome! As a therapist, I strive to reflect upon and understand the needs of my clients. Navigating life and all its challenges can be tough - we can all use a bit of support from time to time. Managing our moods, our needs, and learning to express them effectively is no easy task. I believe we all seek understanding, kindness, and compassion in our lives. Increasing our sense of confidence in living a life aligned with our goals and desires is the key to improved well-being.
I am a client-centered, Black, queer therapist.
Welcome! As a therapist, I strive to reflect upon and understand the needs of my clients. Navigating life and all its challenges can be tough - we can all use a bit of support from time to time. Managing our moods, our needs, and learning to express them effectively is no easy task. I believe we all seek understanding, kindness, and compassion in our lives. Increasing our sense of confidence in living a life aligned with our goals and desires is the key to improved well-being.
Myles Marcotte
Associate Clinical Social Worker, BSW, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92649 (Online Only)
You hope for a therapist who won't shy away from the difficult topics. Every part of you is welcome here. As a trans therapist and HAES-informed provider, I believe that you deserve a non-judgemental space where you can build a sense of safety and trust on your own terms. You want to shed feelings of shame and guilt that keep you looping back to unhealthy behaviors. I believe in your ability to learn new coping skills and your capacity to become even more resilient. If you decide you want to, together we can face the memories and emotions you've had to avoid in order to survive. You choose the destination, I’ll help you get there.
You hope for a therapist who won't shy away from the difficult topics. Every part of you is welcome here. As a trans therapist and HAES-informed provider, I believe that you deserve a non-judgemental space where you can build a sense of safety and trust on your own terms. You want to shed feelings of shame and guilt that keep you looping back to unhealthy behaviors. I believe in your ability to learn new coping skills and your capacity to become even more resilient. If you decide you want to, together we can face the memories and emotions you've had to avoid in order to survive. You choose the destination, I’ll help you get there.
Dr. Roxanne Cherry
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Congratulations on taking a step closer to a solution and a life you love. I'd be happy to help you or your loved ones discover and practice more effective ways to experience and express. You'll learn to honor yourself, live your truth, and enjoy fulfilling relationships. Of course, making that happen requires your commitment and effort. I'll provide safe, non-judgmental listening and proven tools; you bring willingness and commitment to inquire, experiment and practice. As an expert in human behavior, I am a gender-affirming advocate for LGBTQ+ people and families. Sessions can be conducted via telehealth, in-person or by phone.
Congratulations on taking a step closer to a solution and a life you love. I'd be happy to help you or your loved ones discover and practice more effective ways to experience and express. You'll learn to honor yourself, live your truth, and enjoy fulfilling relationships. Of course, making that happen requires your commitment and effort. I'll provide safe, non-judgmental listening and proven tools; you bring willingness and commitment to inquire, experiment and practice. As an expert in human behavior, I am a gender-affirming advocate for LGBTQ+ people and families. Sessions can be conducted via telehealth, in-person or by phone.
OC Teen Center- Adolescent and Teen Mental Health
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
If your child has depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal ideation, or trans/identity issues please call us.
Dr. Lauren Armstrong is a highly passionate licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Director with a PsyD from Pepperdine University, and has been working with children and adolescents for the past ten years. She is an expert in working with challenging psychological presentations such as trauma, self harm, mood changes, aggression, and other unsafe or maladaptive coping mechanisms. Dr. Lauren always believes in her patients, even when everyone else has stopped believing in them. She never loses hope, and tirelessly works with patients and their families on improving their relationships, coping skills, and positive change.
If your child has depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal ideation, or trans/identity issues please call us.
Dr. Lauren Armstrong is a highly passionate licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Director with a PsyD from Pepperdine University, and has been working with children and adolescents for the past ten years. She is an expert in working with challenging psychological presentations such as trauma, self harm, mood changes, aggression, and other unsafe or maladaptive coping mechanisms. Dr. Lauren always believes in her patients, even when everyone else has stopped believing in them. She never loses hope, and tirelessly works with patients and their families on improving their relationships, coping skills, and positive change.
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Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
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.
River Ornellas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (Online Only)
I am passionate about providing gender & neurodivergent affirming care to individuals who are trans, non-binary, gender-expansive, gender-questioning & queer. My priority is to create a safe and supportive space to help you heal from past wounds and find a path toward embodying your most authentic self. My work aims to dismantle white supremacy, capitalism & ableism & help you unlearn harmful internalized beliefs instilled by these systems of oppression. I guide you in learning to care for your unique wellbeing in order to live with less suffering & more freedom. I believe in and hold space for each person's potential to heal & grow
I am passionate about providing gender & neurodivergent affirming care to individuals who are trans, non-binary, gender-expansive, gender-questioning & queer. My priority is to create a safe and supportive space to help you heal from past wounds and find a path toward embodying your most authentic self. My work aims to dismantle white supremacy, capitalism & ableism & help you unlearn harmful internalized beliefs instilled by these systems of oppression. I guide you in learning to care for your unique wellbeing in order to live with less suffering & more freedom. I believe in and hold space for each person's potential to heal & grow
Brittany Ahern Nwachie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701 (Online Only)
I really enjoy working with adult individuals who identify as LGBTQIA2S+, queer, ADHD/Autistic, neurodivergent, 2E/Gifted (or formerly gifted and now just burnt-out), creative, artistic, alt, and anyone who has just felt like an “other”.
Oftentimes we can get pulled into and swept away by our intense emotions, self-defeating thought patterns and our painful experiences and memories. Sometimes we have to wear so many masks that it becomes challenging to know who really is under those masks. Other times we just feel…stuck. Clients that enjoy working with me are wanting to get to know themselves more, learn ways to cope with the chaos of their internal and external experiences, and learn to live a meaningful and full life. It can be scary to admit we want these things, but there may be a part of you that resonates with these statements.
I really enjoy working with adult individuals who identify as LGBTQIA2S+, queer, ADHD/Autistic, neurodivergent, 2E/Gifted (or formerly gifted and now just burnt-out), creative, artistic, alt, and anyone who has just felt like an “other”.
Oftentimes we can get pulled into and swept away by our intense emotions, self-defeating thought patterns and our painful experiences and memories. Sometimes we have to wear so many masks that it becomes challenging to know who really is under those masks. Other times we just feel…stuck. Clients that enjoy working with me are wanting to get to know themselves more, learn ways to cope with the chaos of their internal and external experiences, and learn to live a meaningful and full life. It can be scary to admit we want these things, but there may be a part of you that resonates with these statements.
Emily Belford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I am a queer, neurodivergent nerd and as such, providing a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals is very important to me.
My name is Emily (she/her), and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that provides therapy in California. As your therapist, my goal is to walk alongside you with the understanding that you are the expert in your own life. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can express your full self, and where I'll bring my full self with all of our messy imperfections. Research shows that the quality of the relationship between client and therapist is the strongest predictor for positive therapeutic outcomes, so I always want to make sure folks are comfortable and happy with me as their therapist.
I am a queer, neurodivergent nerd and as such, providing a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals is very important to me.
My name is Emily (she/her), and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that provides therapy in California. As your therapist, my goal is to walk alongside you with the understanding that you are the expert in your own life. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can express your full self, and where I'll bring my full self with all of our messy imperfections. Research shows that the quality of the relationship between client and therapist is the strongest predictor for positive therapeutic outcomes, so I always want to make sure folks are comfortable and happy with me as their therapist.
Elaine Godoy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92805 (Online Only)
My specialties include serving the LGBTQ community, helping parents who have a child with special needs, relationship issues, and grief.
Life is hard, finding a therapist shouldn’t be this challenging… you're finally ready to give this therapy thing a try so you can stop feeling stuck, unhappy and unable to live a fulfilling life. That’s where I come in. My experience allows me to understand the best ways to address each client’s needs in an effective manner. I am flexible in my approach and use collaboration as the basis of my therapy.
My specialties include serving the LGBTQ community, helping parents who have a child with special needs, relationship issues, and grief.
Life is hard, finding a therapist shouldn’t be this challenging… you're finally ready to give this therapy thing a try so you can stop feeling stuck, unhappy and unable to live a fulfilling life. That’s where I come in. My experience allows me to understand the best ways to address each client’s needs in an effective manner. I am flexible in my approach and use collaboration as the basis of my therapy.
Bren Benoit
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868 (Online Only)
It is a radical act to pursue health, liberation, and self-acceptance in a world that too often seeks to dehumanize and control us. My intention is for therapy to be a refuge from that pressure and trauma, where you can explore who you want to be and how you want to live your life. Everyone has unique needs, strengths, and values, so my therapeutic approach is always as collaborative and egalitarian as possible. As a member of the transgender community, I am particularly experienced in issues relating to LGBTQ+ identity, relationships, and discrimination.
It is a radical act to pursue health, liberation, and self-acceptance in a world that too often seeks to dehumanize and control us. My intention is for therapy to be a refuge from that pressure and trauma, where you can explore who you want to be and how you want to live your life. Everyone has unique needs, strengths, and values, so my therapeutic approach is always as collaborative and egalitarian as possible. As a member of the transgender community, I am particularly experienced in issues relating to LGBTQ+ identity, relationships, and discrimination.
Victoria Grutz Neurodivergence-Informed Therapist
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by. My name is Victoria (she/her) and I am a neurodivergent (Autistic and ADHD) therapist who is deeply passionate about working with adult individuals, couples, polycules, and families in both the neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities. I work from a social justice-oriented lens, acknowledging systems of oppression that exist to serve some while creating barriers to well-being for many others. I particularly enjoy working with clients as they navigate experiences with late-diagnoses, anxiety, existential questions, relational and sexual difficulties, and life transitions.
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by. My name is Victoria (she/her) and I am a neurodivergent (Autistic and ADHD) therapist who is deeply passionate about working with adult individuals, couples, polycules, and families in both the neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities. I work from a social justice-oriented lens, acknowledging systems of oppression that exist to serve some while creating barriers to well-being for many others. I particularly enjoy working with clients as they navigate experiences with late-diagnoses, anxiety, existential questions, relational and sexual difficulties, and life transitions.
Allison Young
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92697
I am a queer, multiracial, cisgender woman providing couples and individual therapy. Specializing in LGBTQ+ issues, multiracial identity, childhood trauma, post-grad identity crisis, neurodiversity-affirming care, and attachment/relationship challenges, I believe in adapting my approach to meet each client’s unique needs. My passion for working with couples stems from valuing secure attachment and promoting collaborative, safe, and equitable environments for partners to deepen their understanding of one another.
I am a queer, multiracial, cisgender woman providing couples and individual therapy. Specializing in LGBTQ+ issues, multiracial identity, childhood trauma, post-grad identity crisis, neurodiversity-affirming care, and attachment/relationship challenges, I believe in adapting my approach to meet each client’s unique needs. My passion for working with couples stems from valuing secure attachment and promoting collaborative, safe, and equitable environments for partners to deepen their understanding of one another.
Sarina Lagor I Anxiety Trauma Attachment
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612 (Online Only)
You should feel safe, comfortable, and understood. I aim to create that environment for each of my clients. I specialize in working with those that want to improve their anxiety, trauma, and/or ADHD. I only do Telehealth sessions, meaning you can wear sweatpants and do phone or video sessions from your couch. I am LGBTQ+ affirming, and strive to be anti-racist in my personal and professional life.
You should feel safe, comfortable, and understood. I aim to create that environment for each of my clients. I specialize in working with those that want to improve their anxiety, trauma, and/or ADHD. I only do Telehealth sessions, meaning you can wear sweatpants and do phone or video sessions from your couch. I am LGBTQ+ affirming, and strive to be anti-racist in my personal and professional life.
See more therapy options for Orange County
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.