LGBTQ+ Therapists in Downtown, Washington, DC

Photo of Leila Barzegar, Counselor in Downtown, Washington, DC
Leila Barzegar
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
My approach is anchored in creating an identity-affirming, judgment-free space that fosters self-awareness, behavioral change, and personal growth. I offer a combination of traditional talk therapy and somatic work, empowering clients to understand their body's stress response and learn to regulate their emotions and nervous system. Drawing from a strength-based approach, I emphasize clients' resilience and unique strengths while acknowledging the enduring impact of early relationships and experiences. I specialize in supporting LGBTQIA+ adults on their journey of identity exploration, affirmation, and celebration.
My approach is anchored in creating an identity-affirming, judgment-free space that fosters self-awareness, behavioral change, and personal growth. I offer a combination of traditional talk therapy and somatic work, empowering clients to understand their body's stress response and learn to regulate their emotions and nervous system. Drawing from a strength-based approach, I emphasize clients' resilience and unique strengths while acknowledging the enduring impact of early relationships and experiences. I specialize in supporting LGBTQIA+ adults on their journey of identity exploration, affirmation, and celebration.
(202) 949-6723 View (202) 949-6723
Photo of Pride Therapy DC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Washington, DC
Pride Therapy DC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
More than your Therapist -Your Biographer-- In sharing your story- you can get Perspective , Power and Peace. LGBTQ- Supportive Therapy-providing an empathetic ear and concrete solutions. Whether your struggling with Anxiety, Trauma or Relationship Issues- or not being in one -you don't have to do it alone. Have You - your kid or spouse come out as Transgender, Lesbian Bisexual or Gay or HIV+ and have questions I have helped many others like you and have trained thousands of Healthcare Providers on how to be more clinically competent and sensitive in their care. Let's do the work together!
More than your Therapist -Your Biographer-- In sharing your story- you can get Perspective , Power and Peace. LGBTQ- Supportive Therapy-providing an empathetic ear and concrete solutions. Whether your struggling with Anxiety, Trauma or Relationship Issues- or not being in one -you don't have to do it alone. Have You - your kid or spouse come out as Transgender, Lesbian Bisexual or Gay or HIV+ and have questions I have helped many others like you and have trained thousands of Healthcare Providers on how to be more clinically competent and sensitive in their care. Let's do the work together!
(202) 899-8456 View (202) 899-8456
Photo of Kris Oseth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Downtown, Washington, DC
Kris Oseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Washington, DC 20036
I work with clients of all backgrounds, while specializing in following areas: LGBTQ+, Transgender/Gender-Diverse/Non-binary transitioning process and identity; kink/poly/non-monogamous relationships, sex work, substance use/misuse – goals for sobriety/recovery or harm reduction, out of control sexual behavior, anxiety/trauma, Personal Training, EMDR.
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
I work with clients of all backgrounds, while specializing in following areas: LGBTQ+, Transgender/Gender-Diverse/Non-binary transitioning process and identity; kink/poly/non-monogamous relationships, sex work, substance use/misuse – goals for sobriety/recovery or harm reduction, out of control sexual behavior, anxiety/trauma, Personal Training, EMDR.
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
(202) 759-8060 View (202) 759-8060
Photo of Joseph Kosowsky, Psychologist in Downtown, Washington, DC
Joseph Kosowsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Washington, DC 20005
I specialize in affirming work with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Do you feel like life has become more challenging? Have you begun to feel less fulfilled or feel like something is wrong? People seek therapy at various stages of their life to address their challenges. Sometimes you might know why, and other times it can be confusing or difficult to pinpoint. Therapy not only can help you understand your sources of stress but also to improve symptoms that prevent you from feeling your best. Together, we will work to support you, face challenges within yourself, work towards your goals, and, most importantly, improve your own sense of a life that is meaningful and fulfilled.
I specialize in affirming work with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Do you feel like life has become more challenging? Have you begun to feel less fulfilled or feel like something is wrong? People seek therapy at various stages of their life to address their challenges. Sometimes you might know why, and other times it can be confusing or difficult to pinpoint. Therapy not only can help you understand your sources of stress but also to improve symptoms that prevent you from feeling your best. Together, we will work to support you, face challenges within yourself, work towards your goals, and, most importantly, improve your own sense of a life that is meaningful and fulfilled.
(202) 831-4943 View (202) 831-4943
Photo of Emma Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Washington, DC
Emma Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Washington, DC 20005
As an individual who identifies with and works with the LGBTQ+ community, I know how important it is to feel safe when sharing your story authentically.
Are you exhausted and overwhelmed trying to navigate adulthood as a 20- or 30-something? Feeling pressure to figure out who you are and what you want from life, your relationships, or your career? Can't shed negative patterns you've developed? Know you need a change but need help figuring out where to start? You're not alone in feeling anxious, lost, or stuck. If you've tried everything and leaning on friends and family hasn't been enough, it's time to change.
As an individual who identifies with and works with the LGBTQ+ community, I know how important it is to feel safe when sharing your story authentically.
Are you exhausted and overwhelmed trying to navigate adulthood as a 20- or 30-something? Feeling pressure to figure out who you are and what you want from life, your relationships, or your career? Can't shed negative patterns you've developed? Know you need a change but need help figuring out where to start? You're not alone in feeling anxious, lost, or stuck. If you've tried everything and leaning on friends and family hasn't been enough, it's time to change.
(202) 816-7061 View (202) 816-7061
Photo of Jamaal A. Crone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Downtown, Washington, DC
Jamaal A. Crone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAR, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Downtown, Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
We work with adult clients and couples of all identities; with a focus on the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you are seeking to enhance your life by building connection, character, and community, we invite you to contact us so we can begin the journey together. Although our clinical team varies, we work, primarily, from a Cognitive-Behavioral foundation. Our clinicians use multiple counseling methodologies including: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Relational Cultural Therapy (RCT), Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Couples Method, and others. Email inquiries preferred!
We work with adult clients and couples of all identities; with a focus on the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you are seeking to enhance your life by building connection, character, and community, we invite you to contact us so we can begin the journey together. Although our clinical team varies, we work, primarily, from a Cognitive-Behavioral foundation. Our clinicians use multiple counseling methodologies including: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Relational Cultural Therapy (RCT), Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Couples Method, and others. Email inquiries preferred!
(202) 875-5176 View (202) 875-5176
Photo of Nancie E. Henley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Washington, DC
Nancie E. Henley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Downtown, Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
You can become someone who you can learn to love and trust, and I would like to help you with that. My name is Ella Henley and I am a trauma therapist with over 20 years of experience working with survivors. I offer individual talk therapy services to address CPTSD, anxiety, dissociation, emotional regulation, identity, and attachment and developmental trauma. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse individuals. I am a member of AASECT, am certified as a Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP) and am working towards credentialing in sex and couples therapy. I am Anti-Racist, and am Queer, Trans, Kink, and Poly affirming.
You can become someone who you can learn to love and trust, and I would like to help you with that. My name is Ella Henley and I am a trauma therapist with over 20 years of experience working with survivors. I offer individual talk therapy services to address CPTSD, anxiety, dissociation, emotional regulation, identity, and attachment and developmental trauma. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse individuals. I am a member of AASECT, am certified as a Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP) and am working towards credentialing in sex and couples therapy. I am Anti-Racist, and am Queer, Trans, Kink, and Poly affirming.
(202) 519-8471 View (202) 519-8471
Photo of Luis Ocampo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Downtown, Washington, DC
Luis Ocampo
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
We'll explore how to identify and reframe negative thoughts, regulate mood, improve communication, learn and implement new behaviors . We'll also explore how your childhood experiences might impact and inform your current ability to form meaningful bonds. I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients to be candid about their experiences. We identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral distress related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, roles an expectations, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma and/or abuse, racial, ethic and cultural identity, and relationships.
We'll explore how to identify and reframe negative thoughts, regulate mood, improve communication, learn and implement new behaviors . We'll also explore how your childhood experiences might impact and inform your current ability to form meaningful bonds. I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients to be candid about their experiences. We identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral distress related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, roles an expectations, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma and/or abuse, racial, ethic and cultural identity, and relationships.
(202) 509-9356 View (202) 509-9356
Photo of Michael Garber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Washington, DC
Michael Garber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Downtown, Washington, DC 20006
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people often face additional concerns when choosing a mental health professional due to past discrimination.
I stress the importance of a strong, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. My approach depends on each person's goals. My approach is exploratory and less structured for those with general concerns about identity issues, transitions, or relationships. For those seeking a resolution of a particular problem (e.g., depression, PTSD, OCD), I take a structured, goal-oriented approach. I have advanced training in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, and personality disorders. I often utilize EMDR for trauma, DBT for emotional dysregulation, and exposure therapy for anxiety disorders.
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people often face additional concerns when choosing a mental health professional due to past discrimination.
I stress the importance of a strong, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. My approach depends on each person's goals. My approach is exploratory and less structured for those with general concerns about identity issues, transitions, or relationships. For those seeking a resolution of a particular problem (e.g., depression, PTSD, OCD), I take a structured, goal-oriented approach. I have advanced training in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, and personality disorders. I often utilize EMDR for trauma, DBT for emotional dysregulation, and exposure therapy for anxiety disorders.
(202) 925-8545 View (202) 925-8545
Photo of Sarah Jesup, LPC Intern in Downtown, Washington, DC
Sarah Jesup
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Downtown, Washington, DC 20036
I am currently completing my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern University. My clinical focus includes young adults and couples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and providing guidance during major life transitions, especially marriage and the perinatal/birth phase. I specialize in working with overachievers and perfectionists, assisting them in managing self-imposed pressures and achieving a healthier balance. I look forward to helping you feel understood, validated, and empowered to make positive changes in your lives.
I am currently completing my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern University. My clinical focus includes young adults and couples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and providing guidance during major life transitions, especially marriage and the perinatal/birth phase. I specialize in working with overachievers and perfectionists, assisting them in managing self-imposed pressures and achieving a healthier balance. I look forward to helping you feel understood, validated, and empowered to make positive changes in your lives.
(202) 517-0280 View (202) 517-0280
Photo of Beshaun J Davis, Psychologist in Downtown, Washington, DC
Beshaun J Davis
Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
Downtown, Washington, DC 20222  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. I understand how difficult it can be to entertain the idea that life can be different. It is my belief that therapy is a space for you to interrogate beliefs, regain a sense of agency, and to rewrite your story. I will work with you to gently explore the origins of beliefs that no longer serve you and use evidenced based therapy to empower you. Additionally, I work with couples and those in ENM relationships to improve communication, repair trust, reduce conflict, and, strengthen bonds. As a Black, gay man, I am especially interested in creating a welcoming space for clients from the LGBTQ+ community.
Accepting new clients. I understand how difficult it can be to entertain the idea that life can be different. It is my belief that therapy is a space for you to interrogate beliefs, regain a sense of agency, and to rewrite your story. I will work with you to gently explore the origins of beliefs that no longer serve you and use evidenced based therapy to empower you. Additionally, I work with couples and those in ENM relationships to improve communication, repair trust, reduce conflict, and, strengthen bonds. As a Black, gay man, I am especially interested in creating a welcoming space for clients from the LGBTQ+ community.
(443) 815-4609 View (443) 815-4609
Photo of Matthew R Schottland, Psychologist in Downtown, Washington, DC
Matthew R Schottland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Downtown, Washington, DC 20006
I will work with you to increase insight into your struggles, actively identify and work toward goals, and build resilience against stress. While I enjoy practicing with a wide variety of issues and types of people, I specialize in relationships (straight and gay), young adults, LGBT concerns, couples, anxiety and depression, and life transitions and losses. Building insight involves examining ways one's past impacts the present. I believe that this coupled with making concrete changes in one's life leads to a successful therapy. I am an active psychologist who will help you make these changes thoughtfully and effectively.
I will work with you to increase insight into your struggles, actively identify and work toward goals, and build resilience against stress. While I enjoy practicing with a wide variety of issues and types of people, I specialize in relationships (straight and gay), young adults, LGBT concerns, couples, anxiety and depression, and life transitions and losses. Building insight involves examining ways one's past impacts the present. I believe that this coupled with making concrete changes in one's life leads to a successful therapy. I am an active psychologist who will help you make these changes thoughtfully and effectively.
(732) 751-4552 View (732) 751-4552
Photo of Woodford Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Downtown, Washington, DC
Woodford Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Downtown, Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
The vision for Woodford Wellness was birthed from the passion of Dr. Bryant to provide a therapeutic space for persons to bring their entire selves and achieve wellness. To do so, Dr. Bryant integrates both his queer psychological and theological expertise to meet clients where they are. Additionally, Dr. Bryant commonly employs a narrative therapeutic approach with clients to best understand a client’s personal narrative. Such an approach yields the unveiling of a client’s key skills and traits which are fostered to rewrite a client’s personal narrative towards wellness.
The vision for Woodford Wellness was birthed from the passion of Dr. Bryant to provide a therapeutic space for persons to bring their entire selves and achieve wellness. To do so, Dr. Bryant integrates both his queer psychological and theological expertise to meet clients where they are. Additionally, Dr. Bryant commonly employs a narrative therapeutic approach with clients to best understand a client’s personal narrative. Such an approach yields the unveiling of a client’s key skills and traits which are fostered to rewrite a client’s personal narrative towards wellness.
(202) 804-3511 View (202) 804-3511
Photo of Jamy Drapeza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Washington, DC
Jamy Drapeza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Washington, DC 20045  (Online Only)
Jamy Drapeza, LICSW (they/she/siya) operates with a background in community based justice, restorative circle keeping, and people-led social change work. They are passionate about supporting people from all walks of life navigate through life transitions, identity exploration, and building towards their next best selves. Jamy specializes in adjusting to life changes, LGBTQ+ issues, transgender care issues, anxiety, and trauma healing.
Jamy Drapeza, LICSW (they/she/siya) operates with a background in community based justice, restorative circle keeping, and people-led social change work. They are passionate about supporting people from all walks of life navigate through life transitions, identity exploration, and building towards their next best selves. Jamy specializes in adjusting to life changes, LGBTQ+ issues, transgender care issues, anxiety, and trauma healing.
(202) 335-7009 View (202) 335-7009
Photo of Alexzandra Earley, Counselor in Downtown, Washington, DC
Alexzandra Earley
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Washington, DC 20005
I am passionate about my work with the BIPOC & LGBTQ+ communities, as well as, women and college students.
Have you been looking for a BIPOC therapist who prioritizes knowing and respecting all parts of your identity? Are you wanting a therapist who has been in your seat and knows what navigating ‘adulting’ feels like firsthand? I know that your 20's and 30's can feel especially tough while facing various changes: relationship shifts, relocating, career moves, and other intimidating life obligations. I am here to help you navigate these changes through a holistic lens.
I am passionate about my work with the BIPOC & LGBTQ+ communities, as well as, women and college students.
Have you been looking for a BIPOC therapist who prioritizes knowing and respecting all parts of your identity? Are you wanting a therapist who has been in your seat and knows what navigating ‘adulting’ feels like firsthand? I know that your 20's and 30's can feel especially tough while facing various changes: relationship shifts, relocating, career moves, and other intimidating life obligations. I am here to help you navigate these changes through a holistic lens.
(202) 978-4774 View (202) 978-4774
Photo of Kevin Waldorf-Cruz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Washington, DC
Kevin Waldorf-Cruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Washington, DC 20006
My practice focuses on the LGBTQIA+ community.
My style is compassionate and supportive. I specialize in working with clients to enhance psychological growth, build satisfaction, and build community in their lives. I have over 15 years of experience facilitating change and self-integration. Clients often report feeling more alive, willing to take more risks, and feeling secure in their relationships with others following their therapy journey.
My practice focuses on the LGBTQIA+ community.
My style is compassionate and supportive. I specialize in working with clients to enhance psychological growth, build satisfaction, and build community in their lives. I have over 15 years of experience facilitating change and self-integration. Clients often report feeling more alive, willing to take more risks, and feeling secure in their relationships with others following their therapy journey.
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Photo of Margo Beth Rowles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Washington, DC
Margo Beth Rowles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Washington, DC 20006
Special interests of mine include working with members of the LGBTQ community, dealing with the particular issues that arise from managing aging parents and developing children, as well as the depression and anxiety that come from job choices and changes.
Having been a clinical psychotherapist in DC for over thirty years, I am adept at helping adults with practical solutions to current troubling situations. With a nod to exploring your past life experiences and history, we together can identify patterns which are leading you to make personal and professional choices which may not be serving your best interests. I assist people with improving their personal and professional relationships, while managing a wide range of emotions in a relaxed and collaborative environment.
Special interests of mine include working with members of the LGBTQ community, dealing with the particular issues that arise from managing aging parents and developing children, as well as the depression and anxiety that come from job choices and changes.
Having been a clinical psychotherapist in DC for over thirty years, I am adept at helping adults with practical solutions to current troubling situations. With a nod to exploring your past life experiences and history, we together can identify patterns which are leading you to make personal and professional choices which may not be serving your best interests. I assist people with improving their personal and professional relationships, while managing a wide range of emotions in a relaxed and collaborative environment.
(202) 751-3715 View (202) 751-3715
Brian Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I am a gay psychotherapist, and enjoy and have had success working with both LGBTq and heterosexual adult clients. A warm and supportive environment allows for the gradual development of a professional relationship between client and therapist that can provide an important basis for their work together. Individuals often come into my practice dealing with feelings of depression and anxiety, as well as the impact of trauma, that affect both their ability to have a positive self-image and sense of identity, and to move ahead in their life. I support a client around reducing these blocks in their life.
I am a gay psychotherapist, and enjoy and have had success working with both LGBTq and heterosexual adult clients. A warm and supportive environment allows for the gradual development of a professional relationship between client and therapist that can provide an important basis for their work together. Individuals often come into my practice dealing with feelings of depression and anxiety, as well as the impact of trauma, that affect both their ability to have a positive self-image and sense of identity, and to move ahead in their life. I support a client around reducing these blocks in their life.
(202) 759-8326 View (202) 759-8326
Photo of Lyssa Barth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Washington, DC
Lyssa Barth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
It takes courage, strength, and commitment to find and connect with a therapist, which is why I value and respect the time I spend with each and every client. I make sure that treatment is tailored to your needs and that you feel heard. My passion for therapy, in combination with my education and training, keeps me rooted in up-to-date, evidence-based practices, ensuring that I am able to provide the best possible services to our clients. At Barth Therapy, I specialize in providing services for LGBTQ+ persons, with an emphasis on transgender people of color.
It takes courage, strength, and commitment to find and connect with a therapist, which is why I value and respect the time I spend with each and every client. I make sure that treatment is tailored to your needs and that you feel heard. My passion for therapy, in combination with my education and training, keeps me rooted in up-to-date, evidence-based practices, ensuring that I am able to provide the best possible services to our clients. At Barth Therapy, I specialize in providing services for LGBTQ+ persons, with an emphasis on transgender people of color.
(202) 930-9659 View (202) 930-9659
Photo of Makenzie Mims, Counselor in Downtown, Washington, DC
Makenzie Mims
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
I also enjoy exploring sexuality, gender, and identity and specialize in working with bisexual, pansexual, sexually-fluid, bi-curious, and label-free multisexual adults.
Wanting to be loved and accepted doesn’t make you needy, or extra, or selfish, or weak. It makes you human. In our work together my focus is building a relationship where you feel comfortable exploring what you think and feel, want and need. My style as a therapist is warm, relaxed, and conversational. I use playfulness, curiosity, creativity, and laughter to support the therapy process and I prioritize taking time to get to know you and what's important to you.
I also enjoy exploring sexuality, gender, and identity and specialize in working with bisexual, pansexual, sexually-fluid, bi-curious, and label-free multisexual adults.
Wanting to be loved and accepted doesn’t make you needy, or extra, or selfish, or weak. It makes you human. In our work together my focus is building a relationship where you feel comfortable exploring what you think and feel, want and need. My style as a therapist is warm, relaxed, and conversational. I use playfulness, curiosity, creativity, and laughter to support the therapy process and I prioritize taking time to get to know you and what's important to you.
(206) 752-6561 View (206) 752-6561

See more therapy options for Downtown, Washington


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.