Photo of Ann-Marie Manning, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Ann-Marie Manning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Furthermore, I find it fulfilling to work with individuals that identify as BIPOC, multiracial, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, polyamory/non-monogamy, kink friendly, women, and providing supervision for MSWs, LSWs, & LPCCs pursuing licensure.
I believe it is important to find the right therapist so you feel like you can be yourself and talk about the challenges you are facing. An essential part of my practice is to build rapport with my clients, so they feel comfortable talking about their problems and the hurtful issues they’ve experienced. I have enjoyed assisting individuals from multiple cultural, educational, gender, spirituality, and socioeconomic backgrounds who have experienced challenges with trauma, grief, anxiety, social identities, life transitions, sleep disturbances, mental health, health issues, adult children of alcoholics/addicts, & DV survivors.
Furthermore, I find it fulfilling to work with individuals that identify as BIPOC, multiracial, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, polyamory/non-monogamy, kink friendly, women, and providing supervision for MSWs, LSWs, & LPCCs pursuing licensure.
I believe it is important to find the right therapist so you feel like you can be yourself and talk about the challenges you are facing. An essential part of my practice is to build rapport with my clients, so they feel comfortable talking about their problems and the hurtful issues they’ve experienced. I have enjoyed assisting individuals from multiple cultural, educational, gender, spirituality, and socioeconomic backgrounds who have experienced challenges with trauma, grief, anxiety, social identities, life transitions, sleep disturbances, mental health, health issues, adult children of alcoholics/addicts, & DV survivors.
(719) 581-5490 View (719) 581-5490
Photo of A. J. Durben, Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
A. J. Durben
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80902  (Online Only)
As both a therapist and a fellow traveler of life, I know the complexity and challenges of being a human in this world. I believe our identities are our most precious assets, despite what society has conditioned us to believe. Because of my own queer identity, I am particularly delighted to support folks who identify as queer/LGBTQ+. My work is centered around helping clients reconnect with their inherent worth, heal the impact of the past, and learn to regulate. I will help you explore the life experiences and narratives that challenge you showing up exactly as you are, and guide you towards the healing and wellness you deserve.
As both a therapist and a fellow traveler of life, I know the complexity and challenges of being a human in this world. I believe our identities are our most precious assets, despite what society has conditioned us to believe. Because of my own queer identity, I am particularly delighted to support folks who identify as queer/LGBTQ+. My work is centered around helping clients reconnect with their inherent worth, heal the impact of the past, and learn to regulate. I will help you explore the life experiences and narratives that challenge you showing up exactly as you are, and guide you towards the healing and wellness you deserve.
(720) 730-6798 View (720) 730-6798
Photo of Dr. Brett Bartruff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Dr. Brett Bartruff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80916  (Online Only)
I am a proud LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapist and advocate. I aim to help clients discover and engage in a meaningful and purposeful life. The great thing about therapy and wellness is it is different for everyone and should be based on each unique individual. I focus on understanding people holistically, with particular attention on a person’s strengths, attachments, stressful/traumatic events, and cultural environment. I integrate aspects of cognitive therapy, psycho-dynamic principles, adaptive processing theory, and motivational interviewing as part of my therapeutic practice.
I am a proud LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapist and advocate. I aim to help clients discover and engage in a meaningful and purposeful life. The great thing about therapy and wellness is it is different for everyone and should be based on each unique individual. I focus on understanding people holistically, with particular attention on a person’s strengths, attachments, stressful/traumatic events, and cultural environment. I integrate aspects of cognitive therapy, psycho-dynamic principles, adaptive processing theory, and motivational interviewing as part of my therapeutic practice.
(385) 284-0423 View (385) 284-0423
Photo of Alan Hale (Now Accepting New Clients!), Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Colorado Springs, CO
Alan Hale (Now Accepting New Clients!)
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, MFTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80901
Schedule instantly through my website! (Link in profile). As a queer BIPOC individual, my passion is working with other individuals, relationships, and family systems of the queer and or BIPOC community. If you grew up in a culture that viewed mental health as taboo, you may be feeling alone and hopeless. Know that you are not alone in your journey. I believe that people and relationships can thrive if given the proper support, nourishment, and environment. We are all given the same tools, but how helpful can it be if we were never taught how to use them?
Schedule instantly through my website! (Link in profile). As a queer BIPOC individual, my passion is working with other individuals, relationships, and family systems of the queer and or BIPOC community. If you grew up in a culture that viewed mental health as taboo, you may be feeling alone and hopeless. Know that you are not alone in your journey. I believe that people and relationships can thrive if given the proper support, nourishment, and environment. We are all given the same tools, but how helpful can it be if we were never taught how to use them?
(720) 923-8580 View (720) 923-8580
Photo of M Pacheco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
M Pacheco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, CSWC, ADDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80901
My work centers with LGBTQIA+ BIPOC, Domestic Violence, Family Violence, Foster Care, Adoption, Immigrant & Refugee traumas. To co-elevate with community members intersectionality, resilience and journey toward healing.
My work centers with LGBTQIA+ BIPOC, Domestic Violence, Family Violence, Foster Care, Adoption, Immigrant & Refugee traumas. To co-elevate with community members intersectionality, resilience and journey toward healing.
(720) 973-1475 View (720) 973-1475
Photo of Chingonx Counseling & Consulting, LLC, Clinical Social Work Candidate in Colorado Springs, CO
Chingonx Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work Candidate, MSSW, CSWC, ADDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918  (Online Only)
I welcome all of my clients intersectionality in sessions. My clinical practice engages in culturally responsive trauma- informed healing. My work centers with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities.
I welcome all of my clients intersectionality in sessions. My clinical practice engages in culturally responsive trauma- informed healing. My work centers with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities.
(720) 784-5408 View (720) 784-5408
Photo of Amanda Scheibelhut - Remedy Mental Health, Clinical Social Work Candidate in Colorado Springs, CO
Amanda Scheibelhut - Remedy Mental Health
Clinical Social Work Candidate, MSW, SWC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran, former first responder, and LGBTQIA+.
Anxiety, depression, trauma, and a host of other challenges can rob us of our identity and potential in life. The importance of finding a person you feel safe exploring the brightest and darkest parts of you with can’t be overstated. My goal is to help you see and achieve your unique potential, to uncover that beautiful self beneath the wounds of your life, and ultimately – to feel better!
I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran, former first responder, and LGBTQIA+.
Anxiety, depression, trauma, and a host of other challenges can rob us of our identity and potential in life. The importance of finding a person you feel safe exploring the brightest and darkest parts of you with can’t be overstated. My goal is to help you see and achieve your unique potential, to uncover that beautiful self beneath the wounds of your life, and ultimately – to feel better!
(719) 624-4736 View (719) 624-4736
Photo of Jean Parcher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Jean Parcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
I help people GET & KEEP the change they want in life. As a lesbian military veteran, I offer compassionate and non-judgmental assistance to people who desire to grow & live a complete & more balanced life. I will help identify the root causes of problems and to assist with resolution. Equipping people with life skills and tools helps people achieve internal balance, success, and self-discovery. I specialize in LGBT+ issues, transgender transitions, gender identity counseling, and light sensitivity.
I help people GET & KEEP the change they want in life. As a lesbian military veteran, I offer compassionate and non-judgmental assistance to people who desire to grow & live a complete & more balanced life. I will help identify the root causes of problems and to assist with resolution. Equipping people with life skills and tools helps people achieve internal balance, success, and self-discovery. I specialize in LGBT+ issues, transgender transitions, gender identity counseling, and light sensitivity.
(719) 259-2299 View (719) 259-2299
Photo of Lisa Schoenstein, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Colorado Springs, CO
Lisa Schoenstein
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
I'm a queer genderfluid therapist, meeting ALL clients with: safety, transparency, mutuality, and curiosity.
You need not walk alone through trauma, grief, loss, anger, stuckness, numbness, overwhelm. You're getting through the day, exhausted from saying "It's fine," needing new perspectives and tools. We will work together to foster a new way forward, carried by meaning-making, gentle curiosity, inviting change, and recalibration toward wholeness. I approach therapy as an intentional, collaborative relationship rooted in the belief that people are inherently adaptive and fundamentally whole. My approach is trauma-informed and person-centered, both reflective and practical. We uncover, discover, discard, reimagine, restore, re-story.
I'm a queer genderfluid therapist, meeting ALL clients with: safety, transparency, mutuality, and curiosity.
You need not walk alone through trauma, grief, loss, anger, stuckness, numbness, overwhelm. You're getting through the day, exhausted from saying "It's fine," needing new perspectives and tools. We will work together to foster a new way forward, carried by meaning-making, gentle curiosity, inviting change, and recalibration toward wholeness. I approach therapy as an intentional, collaborative relationship rooted in the belief that people are inherently adaptive and fundamentally whole. My approach is trauma-informed and person-centered, both reflective and practical. We uncover, discover, discard, reimagine, restore, re-story.
(719) 628-1454 View (719) 628-1454
Photo of Cameron Em Mais, LPC Intern in Colorado Springs, CO
Cameron Em Mais
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
As a queer, disabled, neurodivergent person, I am passionate about giving back to my community and providing affirming mental health care for individuals from underserved and/or marginalized communities.
You are the expert on your life. As a counselor, I take a client-centered, culture-centered, anti-oppressive approach. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where we can collaborate on practical and creative solutions to the challenges you encounter. I believe community and relationships are integral to individual wellness and seek to support clients through creating a healthy counseling relationship, integrating clients’ existing support systems, and/or providing encouragement and skills to clients as they build new relationships and communities.
As a queer, disabled, neurodivergent person, I am passionate about giving back to my community and providing affirming mental health care for individuals from underserved and/or marginalized communities.
You are the expert on your life. As a counselor, I take a client-centered, culture-centered, anti-oppressive approach. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where we can collaborate on practical and creative solutions to the challenges you encounter. I believe community and relationships are integral to individual wellness and seek to support clients through creating a healthy counseling relationship, integrating clients’ existing support systems, and/or providing encouragement and skills to clients as they build new relationships and communities.
(719) 427-6504 View (719) 427-6504
Photo of Samantha Bunecke, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colorado Springs, CO
Samantha Bunecke
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
As a military spouse, I have a passion for working with military members and their families. Additionally, I have a particular focus on working with sexual assault survivors, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and first responders. Occasionally, we encounter situations that override our ability to cope and are at a loss for how to move forward. In these times, having a dedicated space where you can show-up however you need and process through the experience in a supportive environment is game-changing. I have sliding scale fees in an effort to make therapy affordable for everyone.
As a military spouse, I have a passion for working with military members and their families. Additionally, I have a particular focus on working with sexual assault survivors, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and first responders. Occasionally, we encounter situations that override our ability to cope and are at a loss for how to move forward. In these times, having a dedicated space where you can show-up however you need and process through the experience in a supportive environment is game-changing. I have sliding scale fees in an effort to make therapy affordable for everyone.
(719) 259-5243 View (719) 259-5243
Photo of Alexis Phillips, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in Colorado Springs, CO
Alexis Phillips
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
Additionally, I have a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community, nontraditional relationships, and transitioning individuals.
Deciding to go to therapy is a big step that may cause you to feel nervous, vulnerable, and maybe even a bit overwhelmed. At this point you have probably tried many things to fix the problem, and you are unsure of what to try or where to go next. You are in the right place. Searching for a therapist can be difficult and it is important to find the right fit for you. I work with a variety of people with a variety of concerns utilizing systemic and relational therapies. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment of mutual respect and open communication.
Additionally, I have a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community, nontraditional relationships, and transitioning individuals.
Deciding to go to therapy is a big step that may cause you to feel nervous, vulnerable, and maybe even a bit overwhelmed. At this point you have probably tried many things to fix the problem, and you are unsure of what to try or where to go next. You are in the right place. Searching for a therapist can be difficult and it is important to find the right fit for you. I work with a variety of people with a variety of concerns utilizing systemic and relational therapies. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment of mutual respect and open communication.
(719) 751-5752 View (719) 751-5752
Photo of Patsy Agpalza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Patsy Agpalza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80901  (Online Only)
As a non-binary queer therapist of color, I recognize there is no “right” way to live one’s life and each person has a right and need to be seen and heard at the authentic level.
Hey There! I believe that every thought, emotion, and behavior that a person entertains is actively shaping their current reality. I view our therapeutic relationship as a partnership. You & I will define your intentions for therapy and create active goals to shift patterns. I have always had a strong calling to support others. I believe that people can learn to accept, love, and claim authenticity by moving away from patterns that are no longer serving the individual, by actively exploring their unique interests & evolving needs. I respect and acknowledge all relationship styles & sexual identities. My goal is to hold space.
As a non-binary queer therapist of color, I recognize there is no “right” way to live one’s life and each person has a right and need to be seen and heard at the authentic level.
Hey There! I believe that every thought, emotion, and behavior that a person entertains is actively shaping their current reality. I view our therapeutic relationship as a partnership. You & I will define your intentions for therapy and create active goals to shift patterns. I have always had a strong calling to support others. I believe that people can learn to accept, love, and claim authenticity by moving away from patterns that are no longer serving the individual, by actively exploring their unique interests & evolving needs. I respect and acknowledge all relationship styles & sexual identities. My goal is to hold space.
(720) 707-1250 View (720) 707-1250
Photo of Shannon J Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Shannon J Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80901  (Online Only)
I am a sex positive and BDSM, kink, fetish, queer aware therapist.
Accepting clients in Colorado and Oklahoma Pronouns: she/her/hers Fuck fear and self-doubt! Held back from fulfilling experiences? Feeling overwhelmed? Can't find your voice? Struggling with feeling unable, not good enough, or like you're too much? I have helped hundreds of people learn what is holding them back, and tap into their personal power to live their best life. I believe you already have it in you. I just help you find it. I will help you identify what is keeping you stuck and develop a plan for hope.
I am a sex positive and BDSM, kink, fetish, queer aware therapist.
Accepting clients in Colorado and Oklahoma Pronouns: she/her/hers Fuck fear and self-doubt! Held back from fulfilling experiences? Feeling overwhelmed? Can't find your voice? Struggling with feeling unable, not good enough, or like you're too much? I have helped hundreds of people learn what is holding them back, and tap into their personal power to live their best life. I believe you already have it in you. I just help you find it. I will help you identify what is keeping you stuck and develop a plan for hope.
(405) 588-1734 View (405) 588-1734
Photo of Amanda Earle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Amanda Earle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80906  (Online Only)
What if I can't handle Polyamory or Non-Monogamy? Am I Queer enough? Where do I even begin to explore my Kinks or Power-exchange dynamics? Am I really Addicted?... I offer a safe and supportive space for my clients to address these questions, as well as explore other concerns regarding their identity, relationships, needs, and behaviors. As a Narrative therapist, I consider myself an active and collaborative clinician. My approach is creative and engaging, and will often incorporate metaphor, storytelling, experiential exercises, skill-building, and an emphasis on Harm Reduction. I also offer EMDR for healing trauma.
What if I can't handle Polyamory or Non-Monogamy? Am I Queer enough? Where do I even begin to explore my Kinks or Power-exchange dynamics? Am I really Addicted?... I offer a safe and supportive space for my clients to address these questions, as well as explore other concerns regarding their identity, relationships, needs, and behaviors. As a Narrative therapist, I consider myself an active and collaborative clinician. My approach is creative and engaging, and will often incorporate metaphor, storytelling, experiential exercises, skill-building, and an emphasis on Harm Reduction. I also offer EMDR for healing trauma.
(720) 806-9546 View (720) 806-9546
Photo of Jade McGahan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Jade McGahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80906  (Online Only)
New Name, Same Dame! I love working with BIPOC and Queer humans! I am well versed in both evidence-based practices and lived experiences. I fancy myself an Emotional Support Human. I provide a set of very strong shoulders. I can't take your problems away but I can help you carry them. I am an excellent qualm-crushing mediator and love facilitator when it comes to interracial couples and our unique concerns. You will be provided a comfortable, authentic, and empathetic space to encourage open expression without the fear of judgment. Stop for a free consultation; Stay for acknowledgment, validation, and total self-exploration.
New Name, Same Dame! I love working with BIPOC and Queer humans! I am well versed in both evidence-based practices and lived experiences. I fancy myself an Emotional Support Human. I provide a set of very strong shoulders. I can't take your problems away but I can help you carry them. I am an excellent qualm-crushing mediator and love facilitator when it comes to interracial couples and our unique concerns. You will be provided a comfortable, authentic, and empathetic space to encourage open expression without the fear of judgment. Stop for a free consultation; Stay for acknowledgment, validation, and total self-exploration.
(719) 569-5653 View (719) 569-5653
Photo of Paul Courtland Soper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Paul Courtland Soper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, CCTP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80926  (Online Only)
I'm a sex therapist and psychotherapist, specializing in trauma, polyamory, consensual non monogamy and open relationships, with a particular focus on the LGBTQ+ community.
I am currently taking new telehealth clients for sex therapy, couples therapy and trauma therapy. My ideal client wants to heal. With all the trauma from the past few years, self-work has never been more necessary and normalized. Coming out of a global pandemic, with relationships and sex lives suffering, we all need to be intentional about rebuilding emotional, mental and sexual health. Whether you’re trying to heal from trauma, improve communication and intimacy in your relationship(s), explore polyamory or consensual non monogamy, or explore sexual and/or gender identity, I believe I can help you to achieve your personal goals.
I'm a sex therapist and psychotherapist, specializing in trauma, polyamory, consensual non monogamy and open relationships, with a particular focus on the LGBTQ+ community.
I am currently taking new telehealth clients for sex therapy, couples therapy and trauma therapy. My ideal client wants to heal. With all the trauma from the past few years, self-work has never been more necessary and normalized. Coming out of a global pandemic, with relationships and sex lives suffering, we all need to be intentional about rebuilding emotional, mental and sexual health. Whether you’re trying to heal from trauma, improve communication and intimacy in your relationship(s), explore polyamory or consensual non monogamy, or explore sexual and/or gender identity, I believe I can help you to achieve your personal goals.
(720) 740-8587 View (720) 740-8587
Photo of Adrienne Marcellus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Adrienne Marcellus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918  (Online Only)
Additionally, as a queer identifying person, I create a safe space for those that identify with the LGBTQ+ and Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Expansive community.
I provide official Autism, ADHD, and OCD assessments, diagnoses, and full clinical report. I specialize in identifying low support needs and high masking adults who are seeking clarity around their neurodivergence. I use the gold standard MIGDAS-2 for Autism and CAARS for ADHD.
Additionally, as a queer identifying person, I create a safe space for those that identify with the LGBTQ+ and Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Expansive community.
I provide official Autism, ADHD, and OCD assessments, diagnoses, and full clinical report. I specialize in identifying low support needs and high masking adults who are seeking clarity around their neurodivergence. I use the gold standard MIGDAS-2 for Autism and CAARS for ADHD.
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Photo of Monina Reyes, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Colorado Springs, CO
Monina Reyes
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, MS, EdS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903  (Online Only)
If you are looking to be fixed, you have come to the wrong place. You are a human being longing to be seen and understood, not a problem to be solved. As a queer, Asian (Filipinx) immigrant, I understand the importance of dismantling internalied narratives, evoking advocacy, and community. Together, we can work to bring awareness to the sociocultural messages and systems of oppression that inform the ways in which we take up space. If you are seeking justice & compassion for inner child you, as well as meaning and belonging for present you - I eagerly invite and welcome you onto this journey of self-liberation and reconstruction.
If you are looking to be fixed, you have come to the wrong place. You are a human being longing to be seen and understood, not a problem to be solved. As a queer, Asian (Filipinx) immigrant, I understand the importance of dismantling internalied narratives, evoking advocacy, and community. Together, we can work to bring awareness to the sociocultural messages and systems of oppression that inform the ways in which we take up space. If you are seeking justice & compassion for inner child you, as well as meaning and belonging for present you - I eagerly invite and welcome you onto this journey of self-liberation and reconstruction.
(720) 442-7562 View (720) 442-7562
Photo of Ersin (Air-Sin) Sulukioglu, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Ersin (Air-Sin) Sulukioglu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80918  (Online Only)
Are you stressed? Anxious? Overwhelmed? Sad? Maybe you're trying to navigate some difficult relationship or family issues. Maybe you're trying to figure out who you are and who you want to be in life. Maybe you're just not exactly sure what's going on. Let's try to figure it out together. I work with MEN and LGBTQ+ clients ages 18+ and I would love to support you on your journey. Please note: My practice is exclusively telehealth based.
Are you stressed? Anxious? Overwhelmed? Sad? Maybe you're trying to navigate some difficult relationship or family issues. Maybe you're trying to figure out who you are and who you want to be in life. Maybe you're just not exactly sure what's going on. Let's try to figure it out together. I work with MEN and LGBTQ+ clients ages 18+ and I would love to support you on your journey. Please note: My practice is exclusively telehealth based.
(720) 924-3037 View (720) 924-3037

See more therapy options for Colorado Springs

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.