Photo of Julleon Garrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist 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."
(312) 262-2473 View (312) 262-2473
Photo of Britt Shearin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Britt Shearin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I practice from a queer affirming, poly-affirming, kink-friendly, intersectional, harm-reduction lens.
I work with folks who are seeking a stronger sense of self-trust, ease, and ability to be connected and present in their life, hobbies, and relationships. Whether you are seeking to understand yourself, develop tools for managing stress, or align decisions with your values, you don't have to do it alone. Maybe you understand some of your patterns and past hurts, but still feel frustrated with what to do about them. Maybe life is changing and you need stability and a listening ear. I believe that self-compassion and acceptance paired with supportive relationships creates a more fulfilling life (with a little humor along the way)!
I practice from a queer affirming, poly-affirming, kink-friendly, intersectional, harm-reduction lens.
I work with folks who are seeking a stronger sense of self-trust, ease, and ability to be connected and present in their life, hobbies, and relationships. Whether you are seeking to understand yourself, develop tools for managing stress, or align decisions with your values, you don't have to do it alone. Maybe you understand some of your patterns and past hurts, but still feel frustrated with what to do about them. Maybe life is changing and you need stability and a listening ear. I believe that self-compassion and acceptance paired with supportive relationships creates a more fulfilling life (with a little humor along the way)!
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Photo of Mallory Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Mallory Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience providing affirming therapy to the LGBTQIA+ community and individuals impacted by HIV+/AIDS.
I strive to develop a collaborative environment with each client so they can feel safe and comfortable discussing what brought them to therapy, identify their goals, and take steps to building a meaningful and rich life. I am interactive in the therapy process and support clients with practical tools and strategies to challenge old patterns, while incorporating new skills that aim to improve the client's ability to live more intentionally and authentically. I employ elements of ACT, DBT, and CBT to respond to the unique needs of the individual.
I have experience providing affirming therapy to the LGBTQIA+ community and individuals impacted by HIV+/AIDS.
I strive to develop a collaborative environment with each client so they can feel safe and comfortable discussing what brought them to therapy, identify their goals, and take steps to building a meaningful and rich life. I am interactive in the therapy process and support clients with practical tools and strategies to challenge old patterns, while incorporating new skills that aim to improve the client's ability to live more intentionally and authentically. I employ elements of ACT, DBT, and CBT to respond to the unique needs of the individual.
(773) 345-9515 View (773) 345-9515
Photo of Devon Migues, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Devon Migues
Counselor, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in identity development & life transition work, harm reduction for individuals with substance use issues, relationship issues, mood & anxiety challenges, and supporting individuals who have endured trauma. I am a kink and poly aware therapist who enjoys working with relationships. I relying on an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) lens when working with relationship struggles. I am dedicated to serving Chicagoland’s LGBTQIA+ community and have a deep background in advocacy and direct service. I am especially dedicated to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journeys.
I specialize in identity development & life transition work, harm reduction for individuals with substance use issues, relationship issues, mood & anxiety challenges, and supporting individuals who have endured trauma. I am a kink and poly aware therapist who enjoys working with relationships. I relying on an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) lens when working with relationship struggles. I am dedicated to serving Chicagoland’s LGBTQIA+ community and have a deep background in advocacy and direct service. I am especially dedicated to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journeys.
(773) 309-6652 View (773) 309-6652
Photo of Erin Shea Brady, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Erin Shea Brady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
The majority of my work centers on trauma and recovery, which can look like a lot of things. I work primarily (but not exclusively!) with LGBTQ+ individuals, neurodivergent folks, and those who have experienced addiction. My practice is strongly aligned with fat liberation and HAES (Health at Every Size). I love working with creative folks or those aiming to pursue something hard/worthwhile. I'm also available to work with other white folks who are looking to engage in anti-racist work.
The majority of my work centers on trauma and recovery, which can look like a lot of things. I work primarily (but not exclusively!) with LGBTQ+ individuals, neurodivergent folks, and those who have experienced addiction. My practice is strongly aligned with fat liberation and HAES (Health at Every Size). I love working with creative folks or those aiming to pursue something hard/worthwhile. I'm also available to work with other white folks who are looking to engage in anti-racist work.
(773) 302-1462 View (773) 302-1462
Photo of Daniel Brewer, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Daniel Brewer
Psychologist, PsyD, CTMH
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Are you struggling with identity and belonging, questioning the essence of who you are? Your roles, culture, sexual orientation, gender, relationships, spirituality, body image, profession? I've specialized in work with members of the LGBTQIA communities, across the lifespan. I am particularly qualified to help you with coming out issues, self-esteem, substance abuse, trauma, depression, and anxiety. I believe everyone needs support, and when you're ready, I'll be honored to witness and encourage your healing. "Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be, and Embrace Who You Are." ~Brene Brown
Are you struggling with identity and belonging, questioning the essence of who you are? Your roles, culture, sexual orientation, gender, relationships, spirituality, body image, profession? I've specialized in work with members of the LGBTQIA communities, across the lifespan. I am particularly qualified to help you with coming out issues, self-esteem, substance abuse, trauma, depression, and anxiety. I believe everyone needs support, and when you're ready, I'll be honored to witness and encourage your healing. "Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be, and Embrace Who You Are." ~Brene Brown
(773) 672-8629 View (773) 672-8629
Photo of Patrick Gehrlich LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Patrick Gehrlich LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am a strong believer that with the aid of a trusting, warm, skillful and open minded therapist people can bring about real, positive changes to their lives. I work with my clients in an empathetic and open dialogue to not only find the root causes of current behaviors and thinking patterns but also to help change them. I do so understanding that each individual is the expert on themselves so the entire process is collaborative.
I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am a strong believer that with the aid of a trusting, warm, skillful and open minded therapist people can bring about real, positive changes to their lives. I work with my clients in an empathetic and open dialogue to not only find the root causes of current behaviors and thinking patterns but also to help change them. I do so understanding that each individual is the expert on themselves so the entire process is collaborative.
(312) 564-5821 View (312) 564-5821
Photo of Paige Davis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Paige Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
I am currently interning at Flourishing Affinity as a part of Roosevelt University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program with the intention of graduating in Spring 2022. A large focus of my graduate studies has been LGBTQIA+ issues. As a member of the queer community, I understand the importance of compassionate healthcare and I am passionate about providing identity affirming treatment. I also specialize in anxiety disorders, and depressive and mood disorders.
I am currently interning at Flourishing Affinity as a part of Roosevelt University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program with the intention of graduating in Spring 2022. A large focus of my graduate studies has been LGBTQIA+ issues. As a member of the queer community, I understand the importance of compassionate healthcare and I am passionate about providing identity affirming treatment. I also specialize in anxiety disorders, and depressive and mood disorders.
(773) 673-9843 View (773) 673-9843
Photo of Connor McInerney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Connor McInerney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
As a queer therapist, I have a unique perspective on what it is like to be different from what society dictates.
Do you struggle with your inner critic? Have you felt lonely or rejected? Maybe you've tried to avoid anxiety, depression, or traumatic memories, seeking a way out of a rollercoaster of emotions. Have you experienced difficulty with life transitions; career/school stress; relationship issues including polyamory and CNM; bigotry; grief; addiction; sex/drug linked behavior; sexual assault/abuse; self-harm, or suicidal thoughts? Are you somewhere on the LGBTQ+ spectrum and feel like no one in your life understands you? If you answered yes to any of these issues, when was the last time you had a space to talk that was just for you?
As a queer therapist, I have a unique perspective on what it is like to be different from what society dictates.
Do you struggle with your inner critic? Have you felt lonely or rejected? Maybe you've tried to avoid anxiety, depression, or traumatic memories, seeking a way out of a rollercoaster of emotions. Have you experienced difficulty with life transitions; career/school stress; relationship issues including polyamory and CNM; bigotry; grief; addiction; sex/drug linked behavior; sexual assault/abuse; self-harm, or suicidal thoughts? Are you somewhere on the LGBTQ+ spectrum and feel like no one in your life understands you? If you answered yes to any of these issues, when was the last time you had a space to talk that was just for you?
(281) 688-4954 View (281) 688-4954
Photo of Randall O'Neill, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Randall O'Neill
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MAT, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand how important it is to find a therapist with whom one can identify and feel comfortable sharing the very personal reasons that bring individuals to counseling. As such, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space in which to explore the needs of my clients. For me, finding meaning and purpose is paramount to maintaining one's mental health. As such I work in collaboration with my clients to help find those things that make one feel whole and connected.
As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand how important it is to find a therapist with whom one can identify and feel comfortable sharing the very personal reasons that bring individuals to counseling. As such, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space in which to explore the needs of my clients. For me, finding meaning and purpose is paramount to maintaining one's mental health. As such I work in collaboration with my clients to help find those things that make one feel whole and connected.
(872) 704-8370 View (872) 704-8370
Photo of E Ardron, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
E Ardron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I am committed to creating an affirming, non-judgemental environment for LGBTQ+ folx to feel empowered and supported.
You are resilient, capable, and unwilling to settle for the status quo. Your reluctance to fit the mold may complicate things, but it’s worth it. However, sometimes, the space between who we are and who we want to be can feel vast, and life can overwhelm our capacity to cope - in those moments, it takes bravery to reach out for support. Together we will celebrate your uniqueness, investigate the barriers to your progress, increase feelings of self-worth and efficacy and expand upon your existing strengths to cultivate an authentic future full of possibilities.
I am committed to creating an affirming, non-judgemental environment for LGBTQ+ folx to feel empowered and supported.
You are resilient, capable, and unwilling to settle for the status quo. Your reluctance to fit the mold may complicate things, but it’s worth it. However, sometimes, the space between who we are and who we want to be can feel vast, and life can overwhelm our capacity to cope - in those moments, it takes bravery to reach out for support. Together we will celebrate your uniqueness, investigate the barriers to your progress, increase feelings of self-worth and efficacy and expand upon your existing strengths to cultivate an authentic future full of possibilities.
(312) 635-4068 View (312) 635-4068
Photo of Divya Daripalli, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Divya Daripalli
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I understand that systemic issues and stigmatization make reaching out for support a daunting task. I understand how difficult talking about emotions and past experiences can be. You may be yearning for someone to recognize the experience of being in your skin. My goal is to work with you to develop strategies that align with your unique strengths and challenges. As your therapist, I intend to foster a sense of safety and trust in our sessions, nurturing you into your most authentic self. I am passionate about exploring how our experiences and backgrounds shape our identities.
As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I understand that systemic issues and stigmatization make reaching out for support a daunting task. I understand how difficult talking about emotions and past experiences can be. You may be yearning for someone to recognize the experience of being in your skin. My goal is to work with you to develop strategies that align with your unique strengths and challenges. As your therapist, I intend to foster a sense of safety and trust in our sessions, nurturing you into your most authentic self. I am passionate about exploring how our experiences and backgrounds shape our identities.
(773) 673-9085 View (773) 673-9085
Photo of Alyse Ruriani, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Alyse Ruriani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I’m a queer art therapist & counselor who provides therapy that is down-to-earth, collaborative, anti-oppressive, and affirming.
Let’s face it–shit has hit the fan. Between the pandemic, systems of oppression, and so much uncertainty...we’re all trying to figure it out. Plus, you have things you were already dealing with– depression, trauma responses, grief, existential questions...Maybe you’re tired of “blank slate” therapists. You want to explore healing through art and creativity instead of just talking. You want space to process your past & present experiences and to deepen your understanding of and reconnect with yourself. You’re looking for someone who "gets" it– who validates your lived experience and who has been on that side of the couch.
I’m a queer art therapist & counselor who provides therapy that is down-to-earth, collaborative, anti-oppressive, and affirming.
Let’s face it–shit has hit the fan. Between the pandemic, systems of oppression, and so much uncertainty...we’re all trying to figure it out. Plus, you have things you were already dealing with– depression, trauma responses, grief, existential questions...Maybe you’re tired of “blank slate” therapists. You want to explore healing through art and creativity instead of just talking. You want space to process your past & present experiences and to deepen your understanding of and reconnect with yourself. You’re looking for someone who "gets" it– who validates your lived experience and who has been on that side of the couch.
(872) 246-8154 View (872) 246-8154
Photo of Behavioral Health at Center on Halsted, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Behavioral Health at Center on Halsted
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
For more than 35 years, Center on Halsted has helped Chicago's LGBTQ community and caring allies meet their behavioral health needs. Our team of therapists offer individual therapy, group therapy, and letters of support for gender affirming surgeries. Our Behavioral Health phone line operates as a bank of information about our services (including scheduling an initial screening), community resources, and possible referrals. These services are offered both in English and Spanish.
For more than 35 years, Center on Halsted has helped Chicago's LGBTQ community and caring allies meet their behavioral health needs. Our team of therapists offer individual therapy, group therapy, and letters of support for gender affirming surgeries. Our Behavioral Health phone line operates as a bank of information about our services (including scheduling an initial screening), community resources, and possible referrals. These services are offered both in English and Spanish.
(773) 657-2925 x460 View (773) 657-2925 x460
Photo of Betsey Zemke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Betsey Zemke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
I have a broad range of experience with individual therapy, with personal and professional experience addressing the needs of those who are queer, trans, polyamorous, or kinky. I offer knowledgeable and affirming practice to a spectrum of folks who may struggle to find the “right fit” with their therapist. I’m committed to working with individuals within LGBTQ+ communities, particularly those who are gender expansive; other areas of focus include depression and anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, intergenerational and complex trauma, mental health in the workplace, sexuality and health, and identity development.
I have a broad range of experience with individual therapy, with personal and professional experience addressing the needs of those who are queer, trans, polyamorous, or kinky. I offer knowledgeable and affirming practice to a spectrum of folks who may struggle to find the “right fit” with their therapist. I’m committed to working with individuals within LGBTQ+ communities, particularly those who are gender expansive; other areas of focus include depression and anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, intergenerational and complex trauma, mental health in the workplace, sexuality and health, and identity development.
(872) 259-4554 View (872) 259-4554
Photo of Lauren Mulligan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lauren Mulligan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R-DMT, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I am passionate about working with members of the expansive queer, trans, kink and polyamorous communities.
I believe my role as a therapist is to help you hold and find meaning in your pain, and delight with you in what is playful and pleasureful in your life. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative. I am interested in creating a genuine, transparent and accountable relationship with you. My hope is that within our relationship we can identify and interrupt harmful patterns that may emerge in your relationships and reinforce patterns that bring you joy and connection. Therapy is inherently political, and I aim to engage with my clients in ways that are liberatory, anti-racist and affirming of their intersecting identities.
I am passionate about working with members of the expansive queer, trans, kink and polyamorous communities.
I believe my role as a therapist is to help you hold and find meaning in your pain, and delight with you in what is playful and pleasureful in your life. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative. I am interested in creating a genuine, transparent and accountable relationship with you. My hope is that within our relationship we can identify and interrupt harmful patterns that may emerge in your relationships and reinforce patterns that bring you joy and connection. Therapy is inherently political, and I aim to engage with my clients in ways that are liberatory, anti-racist and affirming of their intersecting identities.
(312) 874-6545 View (312) 874-6545
Photo of Kate Zucker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kate Zucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My central area of focus has been working with those in the queer community to navigate non-traditional relationships, coming out, experiences and experimentation with gender, and every day life.
Are you going through the world trying to navigate systems that aren't made for you? Are you looking for validation and care, as well as tools and skills? The work that I do in the therapeutic space is well suited for clients looking for an affirming, non-judgmental space to process their experiences and make changes towards their best vision of themselves. More than modalities, I believe that it is the strength of the therapeutic relationship that can guide folks towards change and transformation. As a white queer person, I have worked to develop an intersectional lens, making sure to hold space for folks with varying identities.
My central area of focus has been working with those in the queer community to navigate non-traditional relationships, coming out, experiences and experimentation with gender, and every day life.
Are you going through the world trying to navigate systems that aren't made for you? Are you looking for validation and care, as well as tools and skills? The work that I do in the therapeutic space is well suited for clients looking for an affirming, non-judgmental space to process their experiences and make changes towards their best vision of themselves. More than modalities, I believe that it is the strength of the therapeutic relationship that can guide folks towards change and transformation. As a white queer person, I have worked to develop an intersectional lens, making sure to hold space for folks with varying identities.
(773) 207-4186 View (773) 207-4186
Photo of Alexi Peters, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Alexi Peters
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ASDCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Alexi Peters MA, LCPC is a sex-positive, fat positive, queer therapist. They take a warm yet honest approach to therapy strategically supporting clients in achieving their personal and interpersonal goals through actionable work. Alexi primarily utilizes narrative therapy, DBT, and RODBT to work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, eating disorders, body image, LGBTQIA+ and sexual health, including gender identity and gender affirming needs.
Alexi Peters MA, LCPC is a sex-positive, fat positive, queer therapist. They take a warm yet honest approach to therapy strategically supporting clients in achieving their personal and interpersonal goals through actionable work. Alexi primarily utilizes narrative therapy, DBT, and RODBT to work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, eating disorders, body image, LGBTQIA+ and sexual health, including gender identity and gender affirming needs.
(872) 206-9161 View (872) 206-9161
Photo of Lisa J Rivitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lisa J Rivitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also have experience working with compulsive sexual behavior and love addiction and have worked extensively with the LGBT community.
When you are feeling depressed or overwhelmed, you may feel that you have few options. You may feel even worse if you are drinking more than usual or engaged in other compulsive behaviors. I will help you see that you have choices and that you can start acting and thinking in ways that make your vision of a satisfying life a reality. I am solution-focused and although I believe psychotherapy is a process, I am comfortable working with a short-term model as well as in a more ongoing way. I believe in being direct while remaining empathic.
I also have experience working with compulsive sexual behavior and love addiction and have worked extensively with the LGBT community.
When you are feeling depressed or overwhelmed, you may feel that you have few options. You may feel even worse if you are drinking more than usual or engaged in other compulsive behaviors. I will help you see that you have choices and that you can start acting and thinking in ways that make your vision of a satisfying life a reality. I am solution-focused and although I believe psychotherapy is a process, I am comfortable working with a short-term model as well as in a more ongoing way. I believe in being direct while remaining empathic.
(773) 997-2223 View (773) 997-2223
Photo of Alice Bigelow, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Alice Bigelow
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
As a queer-identifying clinician, I have a particular interest in supporting individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who recently joined the staff of SpringSource Psychological Center and have immediate availability for new clients. I obtained my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and my Bachelor’s from the University of Washington. I have experience in working with individuals, families, and groups in various mental health settings, including inpatient, residential, PHP and IOP levels of care. Through a client-centered and trauma-informed lens, I'm here to assist in processing life struggles and work together to meet your unique goals.
As a queer-identifying clinician, I have a particular interest in supporting individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who recently joined the staff of SpringSource Psychological Center and have immediate availability for new clients. I obtained my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and my Bachelor’s from the University of Washington. I have experience in working with individuals, families, and groups in various mental health settings, including inpatient, residential, PHP and IOP levels of care. Through a client-centered and trauma-informed lens, I'm here to assist in processing life struggles and work together to meet your unique goals.
(630) 349-7264 View (630) 349-7264
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.