Therapists in Chicago, IL
Julleon Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
I am allied with and passionate about serving the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community and other marginalized groups including immigrant populations.
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
I am allied with and passionate about serving the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community and other marginalized groups including immigrant populations.
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
Paul Fressola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604 (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, substance use and abuse, grief and loss, LGBT, mid-life issues, health issues including HIV/AIDS, creation of meaning and purpose.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and a Certified Addictions Counselor
(CADC).
I see therapy as a collaborative process of growth and change. My approach is flexible, warm and empathic. I have over 10 years of experience with individuals, couples and groups and utilize psychodynamics, CBT, Motivational Interviewing,
family systems, relational, and relapse prevention strategies.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, substance use and abuse, grief and loss, LGBT, mid-life issues, health issues including HIV/AIDS, creation of meaning and purpose.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and a Certified Addictions Counselor
(CADC).
I see therapy as a collaborative process of growth and change. My approach is flexible, warm and empathic. I have over 10 years of experience with individuals, couples and groups and utilize psychodynamics, CBT, Motivational Interviewing,
family systems, relational, and relapse prevention strategies.
Dr. Devin Bercaw
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC, E-RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with both heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ issues and have extensive experience working with people dealing with anxiety, depression, HIV/AIDS, relationship issues, and vocational concerns.
I believe in a holistic approach to counseling and therapy and provide full-spectrum and client-specific treatment in a warm and non-judgmental setting. Most of us lead complicated and stressful lives and often find ourselves unable to cope with the many challenges facing us on a daily basis. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy and draw from various therapeutic approaches to address the unique needs of each client. I also incorporate mindfulness, breathing, and meditation into sessions when it is appropriate for dealing with stress, anxiety, and related issues.
I specialize in working with both heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ issues and have extensive experience working with people dealing with anxiety, depression, HIV/AIDS, relationship issues, and vocational concerns.
I believe in a holistic approach to counseling and therapy and provide full-spectrum and client-specific treatment in a warm and non-judgmental setting. Most of us lead complicated and stressful lives and often find ourselves unable to cope with the many challenges facing us on a daily basis. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy and draw from various therapeutic approaches to address the unique needs of each client. I also incorporate mindfulness, breathing, and meditation into sessions when it is appropriate for dealing with stress, anxiety, and related issues.
Christopher Manvel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I work with individuals and couples (straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans) who are dealing with a range of issues in their lives. A meaningful, authentic client-therapist relationship is of utmost importance to me, and I strive to create safe and welcoming spaces for all by fostering an environment of empathy, openness and honesty. Clients who see me receive compassionate care without negative judgment, creating opportunities to make meaning of the events of their lives.
I work with individuals and couples (straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans) who are dealing with a range of issues in their lives. A meaningful, authentic client-therapist relationship is of utmost importance to me, and I strive to create safe and welcoming spaces for all by fostering an environment of empathy, openness and honesty. Clients who see me receive compassionate care without negative judgment, creating opportunities to make meaning of the events of their lives.
Cree Noble
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60641 (Online Only)
If you are someone interested in talking about cultural-related issues, cultural and historical trauma, cultural acceptance, and LGBTQ+-related topics, I am here to support you through collaboration, acceptance, and resiliency.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, and/or stressed in your life? Are you looking to find inner peace and strength within yourself? If this sounds like you, I would like to help guide you on that journey of relieving your worries and making positive changes in your life.
If you are someone interested in talking about cultural-related issues, cultural and historical trauma, cultural acceptance, and LGBTQ+-related topics, I am here to support you through collaboration, acceptance, and resiliency.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, and/or stressed in your life? Are you looking to find inner peace and strength within yourself? If this sounds like you, I would like to help guide you on that journey of relieving your worries and making positive changes in your life.
Lisa D Tarr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, addiction issues (substance abuse), troubled teens, school failure, LGBTQ+, and trauma and identity issues. As a lifelong allied and friend to the LGBTQ+ community, I work very hard to remain current to concerns that are specific to marginalized communities. I tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique needs. I will work with you to think outside of the box and build strength through our therapeutic relationship.
I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, addiction issues (substance abuse), troubled teens, school failure, LGBTQ+, and trauma and identity issues. As a lifelong allied and friend to the LGBTQ+ community, I work very hard to remain current to concerns that are specific to marginalized communities. I tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique needs. I will work with you to think outside of the box and build strength through our therapeutic relationship.
Nicholas McCarley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
My areas of special interest include processing emotion, multicultural identity, relational conflict, depression, self-compassion, and LGBTQ concerns.
Therapy is a rich opportunity for gaining invaluable insights regarding the ways in which fears, disavowed wishes, and injustices from the past can motivate current behavior, and how individuals, often resiliently, continue to live above a rubble of neglected wounds. I believe the success of treatment is dependent upon the establishment of a solid therapeutic relationship and that the therapeutic alliance is a reciprocal "we-relationship" where healing and growth can occur. I also may incorporate more direct mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral approaches in therapy when effective to promote symptomatic change.
My areas of special interest include processing emotion, multicultural identity, relational conflict, depression, self-compassion, and LGBTQ concerns.
Therapy is a rich opportunity for gaining invaluable insights regarding the ways in which fears, disavowed wishes, and injustices from the past can motivate current behavior, and how individuals, often resiliently, continue to live above a rubble of neglected wounds. I believe the success of treatment is dependent upon the establishment of a solid therapeutic relationship and that the therapeutic alliance is a reciprocal "we-relationship" where healing and growth can occur. I also may incorporate more direct mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral approaches in therapy when effective to promote symptomatic change.
Kyra Keuben
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618 (Online Only)
As a queer, person, my work is rooted in anti-racism and social justice with an intersectional feminist lens.
"Be what you are becoming, without clinging to what you might have been, what you might yet be." Our relationship is an opportunity for you to take up space and fill concert halls. It is easy for us to view our lives like a piece of sheet music and get caught up in the theory. As a result, we end up missing the beautiful symphony all around up. I want to create a space with you where you don't have to worry about being too much. Our space will be warm, protected, and healing. I want us to create a space where you get to live your life on your own terms.
As a queer, person, my work is rooted in anti-racism and social justice with an intersectional feminist lens.
"Be what you are becoming, without clinging to what you might have been, what you might yet be." Our relationship is an opportunity for you to take up space and fill concert halls. It is easy for us to view our lives like a piece of sheet music and get caught up in the theory. As a result, we end up missing the beautiful symphony all around up. I want to create a space with you where you don't have to worry about being too much. Our space will be warm, protected, and healing. I want us to create a space where you get to live your life on your own terms.
Jennifer Black
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LBS1, MSEd
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603 (Online Only)
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 16+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 16+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
Dr. Kala Taylor-The Psychology Center-Certified Life Coach
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, MS, MBA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643 (Online Only)
Specializations/Interests Adjustment/Depression; Grief/Bereavement; Stress; Trauma; Activism & Occupation Burnout; Social Justice; Academic & Career Concerns; Perfectionism; Religious/Spiritual Concerns; Shame; Body dysmorphic, Weight Issues, Imposter/Impostor Syndrome; Multicultural/Diversity Issues; LGBTQ+ Concerns; Polyamor/Bullying/Time Management.
Hello! I’m Dr. Kala Taylor ,(She), I currently work private practice with (The Psychology Center) in Chicago. Previously I worked psychotherapy in the State Government Correctional setting under the exempt licensure title Clinical Psychologist/Sr Psych. Inmates under my care have described my therapeutic approach as "nonjudgmental" and "compassionate." My personal experiences have led me to cultivate a deep empathy for all beings. and I’m committed to being (not just inclusive but) welcoming towards “others.” My experience working in mental health has led me to focus on working to help individuals with personal challenges.
Specializations/Interests Adjustment/Depression; Grief/Bereavement; Stress; Trauma; Activism & Occupation Burnout; Social Justice; Academic & Career Concerns; Perfectionism; Religious/Spiritual Concerns; Shame; Body dysmorphic, Weight Issues, Imposter/Impostor Syndrome; Multicultural/Diversity Issues; LGBTQ+ Concerns; Polyamor/Bullying/Time Management.
Hello! I’m Dr. Kala Taylor ,(She), I currently work private practice with (The Psychology Center) in Chicago. Previously I worked psychotherapy in the State Government Correctional setting under the exempt licensure title Clinical Psychologist/Sr Psych. Inmates under my care have described my therapeutic approach as "nonjudgmental" and "compassionate." My personal experiences have led me to cultivate a deep empathy for all beings. and I’m committed to being (not just inclusive but) welcoming towards “others.” My experience working in mental health has led me to focus on working to help individuals with personal challenges.
Michel Rosenthal
Counselor, LCPC, MA, Coach
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
I am a thoughtful, caring, therapist, with 25+ yrs experience helping people heal, enrich & stimulate their lives. Therapy relies on connection & the process of therapy. In these difficult times there's pervasive confusion & disappointment. Talking things through & exploring complicated feelings is essential. I can help articulate goals & make plans to help you feel fulfilled. Through the years I work with teens, adults, LGBTQ & straight couples, & groups. I also teach the Artist Way, about connecting with your creativity and finding your voice. In addition I do career counseling. I love my work and feel lucky to do what I do.
I am a thoughtful, caring, therapist, with 25+ yrs experience helping people heal, enrich & stimulate their lives. Therapy relies on connection & the process of therapy. In these difficult times there's pervasive confusion & disappointment. Talking things through & exploring complicated feelings is essential. I can help articulate goals & make plans to help you feel fulfilled. Through the years I work with teens, adults, LGBTQ & straight couples, & groups. I also teach the Artist Way, about connecting with your creativity and finding your voice. In addition I do career counseling. I love my work and feel lucky to do what I do.
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Lola Wang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
As a queer-identified woman of color, I understand the unique issue of identity exploration and intersectionality.
I appreciate your willingness to take the time to put yourself first and look for a new therapist. In working with me, you will find a safe space where differences are honored. Together, we will explore challenging topics while incorporating different skills and tools that you can utilize regularly. My approach to psychotherapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, with a social justice lens. The goal is to have a holistic approach to healing so that you can reduce symptoms, meet goals, strengthen supports and overcome everyday stress as well as past trauma.
As a queer-identified woman of color, I understand the unique issue of identity exploration and intersectionality.
I appreciate your willingness to take the time to put yourself first and look for a new therapist. In working with me, you will find a safe space where differences are honored. Together, we will explore challenging topics while incorporating different skills and tools that you can utilize regularly. My approach to psychotherapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, with a social justice lens. The goal is to have a holistic approach to healing so that you can reduce symptoms, meet goals, strengthen supports and overcome everyday stress as well as past trauma.
Crystal Adams
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614 (Online Only)
As a psychotherapist, I enjoy working with individuals struggling with a range of mental health issues, some of which include: depression/anxiety, body image, life transitions, stress management, and issues relevant to LGBTQ+ .
Let’s face it, life can be tough. This may be one of those challenging times for you. You may be struggling to make peace with a situation/event, dealing with relationship issues, or perhaps you have a general sense of not feeling quite like yourself. Despite your challenges, I believe growth and healing is possible for you.
As a psychotherapist, I enjoy working with individuals struggling with a range of mental health issues, some of which include: depression/anxiety, body image, life transitions, stress management, and issues relevant to LGBTQ+ .
Let’s face it, life can be tough. This may be one of those challenging times for you. You may be struggling to make peace with a situation/event, dealing with relationship issues, or perhaps you have a general sense of not feeling quite like yourself. Despite your challenges, I believe growth and healing is possible for you.
Michelle Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me! My ideal clients are looking for a strength-based approach where they are more than a "psychiatric diagnosis." My clients come from many backgrounds - they are children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families - and are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, women’s issues, anger management, ADHD, autistic spectrum disorder, addiction issues, couples therapy, and working through LGBTQ+ issues. I partner with my clients in the change process and empower them through using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and other tailored approaches.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me! My ideal clients are looking for a strength-based approach where they are more than a "psychiatric diagnosis." My clients come from many backgrounds - they are children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families - and are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, women’s issues, anger management, ADHD, autistic spectrum disorder, addiction issues, couples therapy, and working through LGBTQ+ issues. I partner with my clients in the change process and empower them through using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and other tailored approaches.
Allison Sheade
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Allison treats depression and anxiety; trauma and PTSD; life changes/transitions; women's issues; relationship and intimacy issues; issues related to gender, sex, and sexuality; LGBTQ issues; body image/self esteem issues; family and relational challenges; occupational/academic difficulties; and parenting challenges, techniques, and strategies.
Allison Sheade is a feminist psychodynamic, relational, trauma-focused LCPC in Chicago. Her style is warm, empathic, collaborative, and direct. Allison has an active style, and clients enjoy knowing that she will offer insights, interpretations, and feedback that are effective, helpful, and supportive. Allison has worked in community mental health, at the Women's Center at Northwestern University, and in outpatient settings. Allison works with diverse populations and operates from a multicultural perspective, valuing differences of race, ethnicity, culture, religion, gender and sexuality (+ poly & kink), ableness, and world-view.
Allison treats depression and anxiety; trauma and PTSD; life changes/transitions; women's issues; relationship and intimacy issues; issues related to gender, sex, and sexuality; LGBTQ issues; body image/self esteem issues; family and relational challenges; occupational/academic difficulties; and parenting challenges, techniques, and strategies.
Allison Sheade is a feminist psychodynamic, relational, trauma-focused LCPC in Chicago. Her style is warm, empathic, collaborative, and direct. Allison has an active style, and clients enjoy knowing that she will offer insights, interpretations, and feedback that are effective, helpful, and supportive. Allison has worked in community mental health, at the Women's Center at Northwestern University, and in outpatient settings. Allison works with diverse populations and operates from a multicultural perspective, valuing differences of race, ethnicity, culture, religion, gender and sexuality (+ poly & kink), ableness, and world-view.
Tyler Fortman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Dr. Fortman serves as clinical faculty at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine and in full-time private practice. A former member of the Sexual Orientation and Gender Institute (SOGI) and staff psychologist at the Center on Halsted, he continues to provide supervision to graduate students. He trained at The Ohio State University, University of Virginia, and Sarah Lawrence College and has worked onsite at Google and Uber. Dr. Fortman is experienced in helping people who are struggling with relationship difficulties, anxiety & depression, low self esteem, LGBT related issues, grief, abuse & neglect, and trauma.
Dr. Fortman serves as clinical faculty at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine and in full-time private practice. A former member of the Sexual Orientation and Gender Institute (SOGI) and staff psychologist at the Center on Halsted, he continues to provide supervision to graduate students. He trained at The Ohio State University, University of Virginia, and Sarah Lawrence College and has worked onsite at Google and Uber. Dr. Fortman is experienced in helping people who are struggling with relationship difficulties, anxiety & depression, low self esteem, LGBT related issues, grief, abuse & neglect, and trauma.
Nicolas Kertesz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Are you uncertain of where you're at in life either emotionally, mentally, or vocationally? Are you struggling to cope with feelings of anxiety or low self-esteem? I help folks from a variety of backgrounds, such as veterans, new parents, BIPOC, queer, and trans individuals, through maintaining a validating space and tailoring my approach to suit your specific needs. I keep an open mind and awareness of current events to ensure I’m observing all of the nuances that come with your intersecting identities. I also encourage men in particular to explore and challenge their concepts of masculinity in a positive, healthy light.
Are you uncertain of where you're at in life either emotionally, mentally, or vocationally? Are you struggling to cope with feelings of anxiety or low self-esteem? I help folks from a variety of backgrounds, such as veterans, new parents, BIPOC, queer, and trans individuals, through maintaining a validating space and tailoring my approach to suit your specific needs. I keep an open mind and awareness of current events to ensure I’m observing all of the nuances that come with your intersecting identities. I also encourage men in particular to explore and challenge their concepts of masculinity in a positive, healthy light.
Kathleen M Pendergast
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647 (Online Only)
My goal is to provide each client with an emotionally safe environment where they feel comfortable exploring even the biggest challenges, whether it is how to manage overwhelming emotions such as anxiety or depression, rebuild a more honest sense of identity, learn to recognize and fight unhealthy or toxic patterns in life & relationships, confront past trauma or abuse, or other flavors of struggle. Many of my clients battle mood disorders, daunting life transitions, relationship issues, as well as cultural issues, LGBTQ integration struggles, grief/loss, trauma, & body image discomfort/disordered eating.
My goal is to provide each client with an emotionally safe environment where they feel comfortable exploring even the biggest challenges, whether it is how to manage overwhelming emotions such as anxiety or depression, rebuild a more honest sense of identity, learn to recognize and fight unhealthy or toxic patterns in life & relationships, confront past trauma or abuse, or other flavors of struggle. Many of my clients battle mood disorders, daunting life transitions, relationship issues, as well as cultural issues, LGBTQ integration struggles, grief/loss, trauma, & body image discomfort/disordered eating.
Olivia Santiago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Olivia has worked with clients of all ages with various levels of trauma experiences, narcissistic/ sexual/ physical abuse survivors, attachment difficulties, life transitions, codepedency, depression, anxiety, grief, and familial/peer relationship concerns. Practicing both personally and professionally from an anti-racist/ anti-oppressive lens and being LGBTQIA+ affirming, Olivia honors the intersectionalities of identities, lived experiences, and the ways in which these experiences are held in our bodies. She uses movement and expression to promote holistic healing that can aid with how these experiences show up in our bodies.
Olivia has worked with clients of all ages with various levels of trauma experiences, narcissistic/ sexual/ physical abuse survivors, attachment difficulties, life transitions, codepedency, depression, anxiety, grief, and familial/peer relationship concerns. Practicing both personally and professionally from an anti-racist/ anti-oppressive lens and being LGBTQIA+ affirming, Olivia honors the intersectionalities of identities, lived experiences, and the ways in which these experiences are held in our bodies. She uses movement and expression to promote holistic healing that can aid with how these experiences show up in our bodies.
Active Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
I have worked with a variety of clients and multiple issues. This includes adults, couples, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, family/relationship issues, and childhood and adolescent disorders. Having worked with a variety of different ethnicities and cultures including LGBTQ, I attempt to bring that cultural sensitivity to my practice. My work with clients includes helping them to identify patterns of problematic thought and behavior, and explore ways these patterns may have developed. My objective is to help clients find ways to enjoy and succeed in their lives.
I have worked with a variety of clients and multiple issues. This includes adults, couples, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, family/relationship issues, and childhood and adolescent disorders. Having worked with a variety of different ethnicities and cultures including LGBTQ, I attempt to bring that cultural sensitivity to my practice. My work with clients includes helping them to identify patterns of problematic thought and behavior, and explore ways these patterns may have developed. My objective is to help clients find ways to enjoy and succeed in their lives.
See more therapy options for Chicago
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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.