Photo of Luis Ocampo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Luis Ocampo
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Ian Walker Crowe, Counselor in Washington, DC
Ian Walker Crowe
Counselor, MA, NCC, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
While I work with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ clients to process difficult feelings, relationships, and life transitions.
I strive to empower clients in session to make sense of personal circumstances and experiences. Through greater exploration and self-understanding, clients can strengthen their sense of self and break down barriers. I use a client-centered and strengths-based integrative approach to improve self-esteem and autonomy. With a holistic, multicultural lens I help clients grow and seek clarity as they work through times of stress, anxiety, change, or stagnation. I believe self-compassion is one of the most important tenets of growth, and one of the most compassionate things one can do is seek and accept support.
While I work with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ clients to process difficult feelings, relationships, and life transitions.
I strive to empower clients in session to make sense of personal circumstances and experiences. Through greater exploration and self-understanding, clients can strengthen their sense of self and break down barriers. I use a client-centered and strengths-based integrative approach to improve self-esteem and autonomy. With a holistic, multicultural lens I help clients grow and seek clarity as they work through times of stress, anxiety, change, or stagnation. I believe self-compassion is one of the most important tenets of growth, and one of the most compassionate things one can do is seek and accept support.
(202) 519-0309 View (202) 519-0309
Photo of Kris Oseth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Kris Oseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Joshua Kline, Psychological Associate in Washington, DC
Joshua Kline
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I work with adults, with a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+, and young adults transitioning to college and the workforce.
I believe in providing a safe, judgment-free, and supportive space for my clients. From a cognitive-behavioral approach, I aim to balance symptom relief in the present while managing life’s challenges and uncertainties. Along with this, I help develop insights and depth into why one’s struggles may be happening. I value a strong therapeutic relationship as a channel for understanding and a way to foster open and honest dialogue. My therapy style can be described as compassionate, direct, solution-oriented, and mind-body-focused. Together, we will create a personalized and flexible plan to create a more authentic and fulfilling life.
I work with adults, with a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+, and young adults transitioning to college and the workforce.
I believe in providing a safe, judgment-free, and supportive space for my clients. From a cognitive-behavioral approach, I aim to balance symptom relief in the present while managing life’s challenges and uncertainties. Along with this, I help develop insights and depth into why one’s struggles may be happening. I value a strong therapeutic relationship as a channel for understanding and a way to foster open and honest dialogue. My therapy style can be described as compassionate, direct, solution-oriented, and mind-body-focused. Together, we will create a personalized and flexible plan to create a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(202) 816-7916 View (202) 816-7916
Photo of Glen Bradley, Counselor in Washington, DC
Glen Bradley
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037
Stop scrolling if you're looking for a therapist who is queer, specializes in trauma and LGBTQ+ affirming therapy, and wants you to talk about your mind-body connection. Ok, now breathe. Sigh. Come as you are. Being queer is a gift to the world. We are sparks of authenticity, joy, and zest! No two of us are alike. And yet, our community shares many themes: identity-based trauma, religious trauma, "missing out" on our childhood, "getting stuck" on pleasing others, limiting ourselves, delaying relationships, balancing other sources of identity, and–even if you've come out–feeling like something is still left unresolved.
Stop scrolling if you're looking for a therapist who is queer, specializes in trauma and LGBTQ+ affirming therapy, and wants you to talk about your mind-body connection. Ok, now breathe. Sigh. Come as you are. Being queer is a gift to the world. We are sparks of authenticity, joy, and zest! No two of us are alike. And yet, our community shares many themes: identity-based trauma, religious trauma, "missing out" on our childhood, "getting stuck" on pleasing others, limiting ourselves, delaying relationships, balancing other sources of identity, and–even if you've come out–feeling like something is still left unresolved.
(202) 900-3971 x5 View (202) 900-3971 x5
Photo of Jeremy Ayers, Counselor in Washington, DC
Jeremy Ayers
Counselor, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I believe you’re stronger and wiser than your current struggles might lead you to believe. It’s just that sometimes our core strength gets covered up by the stress of life and the difficulties we’ve faced. With me, therapy is about helping your best self emerge, which often takes a big dose of compassion and a much-needed break. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including anxiety and depression, relationships and sex, career changes, grief, trauma, and growing up in dysfunctional families. I'm also passionate about supporting LGBTQ, trans, and gender expansive clients.
I believe you’re stronger and wiser than your current struggles might lead you to believe. It’s just that sometimes our core strength gets covered up by the stress of life and the difficulties we’ve faced. With me, therapy is about helping your best self emerge, which often takes a big dose of compassion and a much-needed break. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including anxiety and depression, relationships and sex, career changes, grief, trauma, and growing up in dysfunctional families. I'm also passionate about supporting LGBTQ, trans, and gender expansive clients.
(202) 979-9503 View (202) 979-9503
Photo of John Drollinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
John Drollinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I am committed to providing queer- and LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and I believe in the collaborative exploration of all intersections of identity that feel important to you.
Time and again, the same struggles can show up in relationships or at work. I know how hard it is to break the cycle. Other times, events and life changes challenge our ability to cope and accomplish what we need. Healing and self-discovery are possible in a safe and supportive therapy relationship. My goal is to help you create a rich and meaningful life and better navigate life's challenges. I work with folks facing a range of issues, with a specialty in trauma, burnout, relationship issues and eco-anxiety/climate grief. If you experience stress from caring for/about others and our environment, I am ready to support you.
I am committed to providing queer- and LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and I believe in the collaborative exploration of all intersections of identity that feel important to you.
Time and again, the same struggles can show up in relationships or at work. I know how hard it is to break the cycle. Other times, events and life changes challenge our ability to cope and accomplish what we need. Healing and self-discovery are possible in a safe and supportive therapy relationship. My goal is to help you create a rich and meaningful life and better navigate life's challenges. I work with folks facing a range of issues, with a specialty in trauma, burnout, relationship issues and eco-anxiety/climate grief. If you experience stress from caring for/about others and our environment, I am ready to support you.
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Photo of Joseph LaFleur & Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Joseph LaFleur & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CPATP, CDWF, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or those feeling lonely or bored with life. I have been practicing 20 plus years and will develop a treatment regime for you. The work is meaningful, rewarding, insightful, and life-changing. Good mental health is primary since it affects everything, so let's work together on fixing things. Some of my specialties include men's issues, LGBTQ, shame, and trauma. My goal is to ensure you have a safe, comfortable environment to share and explore your thoughts and life experiences. You have the skills. I bring them to your consciousness, through courage or psychedelics
I work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or those feeling lonely or bored with life. I have been practicing 20 plus years and will develop a treatment regime for you. The work is meaningful, rewarding, insightful, and life-changing. Good mental health is primary since it affects everything, so let's work together on fixing things. Some of my specialties include men's issues, LGBTQ, shame, and trauma. My goal is to ensure you have a safe, comfortable environment to share and explore your thoughts and life experiences. You have the skills. I bring them to your consciousness, through courage or psychedelics
(202) 559-4759 View (202) 559-4759
Photo of Amy Feeser, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Amy Feeser
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I specialize in working with 18+ individuals around LGBTQ issues, anxiety, OCD, depression, religious trauma, and financial education.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or money? Maybe you don't quite feel like yourself anymore, and you're not sure what to do. I'm here to support you in creating new coping skills and building the bridge to connect to yourself and your relationships fully again. I value leaning into our strengths and understanding how the systems we live in impact our daily lives. I utilize an eclectic mix of trauma informed approaches including CBT, mindfulness, interpersonal, and somatic tools. I especially welcome humor in our sessions as a tool to find relief in our daily struggles
I specialize in working with 18+ individuals around LGBTQ issues, anxiety, OCD, depression, religious trauma, and financial education.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or money? Maybe you don't quite feel like yourself anymore, and you're not sure what to do. I'm here to support you in creating new coping skills and building the bridge to connect to yourself and your relationships fully again. I value leaning into our strengths and understanding how the systems we live in impact our daily lives. I utilize an eclectic mix of trauma informed approaches including CBT, mindfulness, interpersonal, and somatic tools. I especially welcome humor in our sessions as a tool to find relief in our daily struggles
(888) 594-2877 View (888) 594-2877
Photo of Trevor Dunn, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Trevor Dunn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Dr. Dunn specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ+ concerns, life transitions, relationship/interpersonal concerns, gender affirming treatment evaluations, grief/loss, identity concerns, and multicultural psychology (e.g., gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity). Trained as a counseling psychologist, he provides evidence-based, culturally centered therapy to adults in Washington DC, Virginia, and other PSYPACT states. Using warmth and empathy, he helps clients examine and reflect on their lives, and move in the direction of their goals and values.
Dr. Dunn specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ+ concerns, life transitions, relationship/interpersonal concerns, gender affirming treatment evaluations, grief/loss, identity concerns, and multicultural psychology (e.g., gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity). Trained as a counseling psychologist, he provides evidence-based, culturally centered therapy to adults in Washington DC, Virginia, and other PSYPACT states. Using warmth and empathy, he helps clients examine and reflect on their lives, and move in the direction of their goals and values.
(703) 884-1802 View (703) 884-1802
Photo of Nakea Jeffers, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Nakea Jeffers
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW, CYT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Moving through the ups and downs of life can be challenging. You might feel uncertain about who you are or where you are going. You might feel lonely or misunderstood. Maybe you feel stuck trying to move past painful experiences. Let’s work together to create a path toward healing, growth, and self-acceptance. I recognize how difficult it can be to find a therapist who gets it. I warmly welcome people from the queer community, black people, and people of color to contact me for services. Whether you are exploring your identity, navigating relationships, or feeling isolated.
Moving through the ups and downs of life can be challenging. You might feel uncertain about who you are or where you are going. You might feel lonely or misunderstood. Maybe you feel stuck trying to move past painful experiences. Let’s work together to create a path toward healing, growth, and self-acceptance. I recognize how difficult it can be to find a therapist who gets it. I warmly welcome people from the queer community, black people, and people of color to contact me for services. Whether you are exploring your identity, navigating relationships, or feeling isolated.
(202) 845-7629 View (202) 845-7629
Photo of William G McVey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
William G McVey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I have been in the field since 2013 providing psychotherapy regarding LGBTQ+ issues, addiction, sex, couples therapy, trauma, anger management, grief, adjustment issues, and mood disorders.
Life's journey can be intricate, layered, and unpredictable, often leaving us overwhelmed by anxiety and depression. As a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Clinical Sexology, I specialize in helping individuals regain control and find fulfillment. With a trauma-informed and integrative approach, including EMDR and cognitive-based therapy, I empower clients to transform their lives. Let's embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery together.
I have been in the field since 2013 providing psychotherapy regarding LGBTQ+ issues, addiction, sex, couples therapy, trauma, anger management, grief, adjustment issues, and mood disorders.
Life's journey can be intricate, layered, and unpredictable, often leaving us overwhelmed by anxiety and depression. As a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Clinical Sexology, I specialize in helping individuals regain control and find fulfillment. With a trauma-informed and integrative approach, including EMDR and cognitive-based therapy, I empower clients to transform their lives. Let's embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery together.
(202) 915-2081 View (202) 915-2081
Photo of Connor McLaren, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Connor McLaren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20024
I bring my lived experience to my work with queer and trans youth & adults.
Are you struggling? Starting to think that depression or anxiety will never stop? I’m passionate about supporting folx who transcend “norms” through their unique experience. I'm especially interested in supporting LGBTQ+ and disability-identified folks. My approach is warm, curious, trauma informed, & relationship-centered. I view my role as a psychotherapist as a co-explorer – I walk alongside you as you navigate your authentic experience of this world. Everyone’s entitled to strut their full peacock. Part of life is figuring out what that means to you.
I bring my lived experience to my work with queer and trans youth & adults.
Are you struggling? Starting to think that depression or anxiety will never stop? I’m passionate about supporting folx who transcend “norms” through their unique experience. I'm especially interested in supporting LGBTQ+ and disability-identified folks. My approach is warm, curious, trauma informed, & relationship-centered. I view my role as a psychotherapist as a co-explorer – I walk alongside you as you navigate your authentic experience of this world. Everyone’s entitled to strut their full peacock. Part of life is figuring out what that means to you.
(571) 520-5323 View (571) 520-5323
Photo of Dr. Kenya A. Ford, Psychological Associate in Washington, DC
Dr. Kenya A. Ford
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with all minorities in society, including LGBTQ+ folx. I have experience working through taboo topics, trauma, racial identity and women's issues, and am vocal about my stance on social justice when necessary. I use an integrative approach to therapy to tailor sessions to the specific needs of each of my clients. I am humanistic, person-centered in my approach and facilitate interpersonal relational work. I am always strength based and really enjoy working with Black folx & people of color, but I am willing to work with anyone who is ready to work through current life stressors in non judgmental space.
I am passionate about working with all minorities in society, including LGBTQ+ folx. I have experience working through taboo topics, trauma, racial identity and women's issues, and am vocal about my stance on social justice when necessary. I use an integrative approach to therapy to tailor sessions to the specific needs of each of my clients. I am humanistic, person-centered in my approach and facilitate interpersonal relational work. I am always strength based and really enjoy working with Black folx & people of color, but I am willing to work with anyone who is ready to work through current life stressors in non judgmental space.
(202) 798-2923 View (202) 798-2923
Photo of Jeannette Craigfeld, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jeannette Craigfeld
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and relationship concerns. I work particularly well with clients who struggle with being compassionate towards themselves and need a space to understand and embrace their authentic selves so they can pursue what they truly value in life.
I specialize in working with anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and relationship concerns. I work particularly well with clients who struggle with being compassionate towards themselves and need a space to understand and embrace their authentic selves so they can pursue what they truly value in life.
(240) 339-6268 View (240) 339-6268
Photo of Dr. Nadia Alsamadi, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Nadia Alsamadi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
As a queer bicultural Palestinian American, I have experience working with LGBTQ+, and second generation immigrants.
You may feel constantly distracted from the present moment or like you’re on autopilot. Our minds often hand us thoughts that are distressing and it’s very easy to become wrapped up and stuck in them! I enjoy working with folks to disempower negative thoughts and get back to the things and people that are important to them. Together, we’ll work on developing a more compassionate and non-judgmental understanding of how your relationships, culture, and oppressive experiences have shaped your behaviors. By reclaiming your narrative, we can forge a path towards meaningful change that's rooted in your values.
As a queer bicultural Palestinian American, I have experience working with LGBTQ+, and second generation immigrants.
You may feel constantly distracted from the present moment or like you’re on autopilot. Our minds often hand us thoughts that are distressing and it’s very easy to become wrapped up and stuck in them! I enjoy working with folks to disempower negative thoughts and get back to the things and people that are important to them. Together, we’ll work on developing a more compassionate and non-judgmental understanding of how your relationships, culture, and oppressive experiences have shaped your behaviors. By reclaiming your narrative, we can forge a path towards meaningful change that's rooted in your values.
(703) 936-7191 View (703) 936-7191
Photo of Liza Brlansky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Liza Brlansky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
I am licensed in both Washington DC and Maryland and can see clients in both locations. I want for clients to have a safe and non-judgmental space to heal and explore their experiences to find meaning. My interest and experience is with queer topics and populations, trauma and trauma related disorders, substance abuse, psychosis and mood disorders.
I am licensed in both Washington DC and Maryland and can see clients in both locations. I want for clients to have a safe and non-judgmental space to heal and explore their experiences to find meaning. My interest and experience is with queer topics and populations, trauma and trauma related disorders, substance abuse, psychosis and mood disorders.
(202) 902-6592 View (202) 902-6592
Photo of Morgan Summers-Slaughter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Morgan Summers-Slaughter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I love to work with clients in the process of working through identity struggles, and dynamics at play that impact a person's ability to be authentic. I'm particularly interested in working with young adults, and those in and around the LGBTQIA+ community. I work to provide an affirming, supportive space for healing and growth for all clients regardless of their age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background and practices (or lack thereof), or any other factor.
I love to work with clients in the process of working through identity struggles, and dynamics at play that impact a person's ability to be authentic. I'm particularly interested in working with young adults, and those in and around the LGBTQIA+ community. I work to provide an affirming, supportive space for healing and growth for all clients regardless of their age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background and practices (or lack thereof), or any other factor.
(240) 219-6923 View (240) 219-6923
Photo of Maggie Carroll, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Maggie Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I'm a therapist committed to serving queer and trans youth, and all young people, with respect, compassion, and attentiveness. I specialize in helping kids with self-regulation, anxiety management, and processing grief and trauma. I work to build collaborative relationships with kids and their parents to create a safe(r) space where kids can get the support they need. In therapy, they will learn new skills and work on changing patterns that no longer work for them.
I'm a therapist committed to serving queer and trans youth, and all young people, with respect, compassion, and attentiveness. I specialize in helping kids with self-regulation, anxiety management, and processing grief and trauma. I work to build collaborative relationships with kids and their parents to create a safe(r) space where kids can get the support they need. In therapy, they will learn new skills and work on changing patterns that no longer work for them.
(855) 673-1259 View (855) 673-1259
Photo of Micki Duran, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Micki Duran
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
I have experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and other minorities.
I work with clients who are navigating discovering who they are as a person; who struggle with being heard or expressing themselves in interpersonal relationships; who have had difficult experiences that may make them feel overwhelmed to think of, let alone discuss. It can be difficult to even know where to start, and that is okay. I commend and welcome clients who are taking that first unsure step in therapy, or are continuing treatment to continue their journey towards a more fulfilling and enjoyable life.
I have experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and other minorities.
I work with clients who are navigating discovering who they are as a person; who struggle with being heard or expressing themselves in interpersonal relationships; who have had difficult experiences that may make them feel overwhelmed to think of, let alone discuss. It can be difficult to even know where to start, and that is okay. I commend and welcome clients who are taking that first unsure step in therapy, or are continuing treatment to continue their journey towards a more fulfilling and enjoyable life.
(202) 929-0942 View (202) 929-0942
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.