Photo of Kai Korpak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kai Korpak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
As a queer transgender therapist, I believe there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to living our lives. The same goes for therapy - there isn't a "right way" to do it. In my practice, I am committed to helping individuals tap into their personal strengths and uncover a path that is meaningful and fulfilling. I trust that my clients are the experts on their own lives and have the skills and tools they need to navigate their problems. However, I'm here to provide support and guidance when they need it.
As a queer transgender therapist, I believe there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to living our lives. The same goes for therapy - there isn't a "right way" to do it. In my practice, I am committed to helping individuals tap into their personal strengths and uncover a path that is meaningful and fulfilling. I trust that my clients are the experts on their own lives and have the skills and tools they need to navigate their problems. However, I'm here to provide support and guidance when they need it.
(773) 862-8454 View (773) 862-8454
Photo of Paul Fressola, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
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.
(773) 639-2768 View (773) 639-2768
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 Lisa D Tarr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
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.
(312) 646-3886 View (312) 646-3886
Photo of Lotus Wellness Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Lotus Wellness Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
I am compassionate and understanding psychotherapist who is dedicated to helping you through your daily struggles that might be interfering with your life. I'm able to support individuals (youth, adults, and elderly) while utilizing an integrative and collaborative approach. Being able to work with the individual to identify skills and values that they each hold to help them to the fullest. I have experience working with the LGBTQIA++ community. I am a trauma informed therapist, who utilizes active listening. Feeling alone when you are struggling is not ideal; I am here to help you identify coping skills to help you.
I am compassionate and understanding psychotherapist who is dedicated to helping you through your daily struggles that might be interfering with your life. I'm able to support individuals (youth, adults, and elderly) while utilizing an integrative and collaborative approach. Being able to work with the individual to identify skills and values that they each hold to help them to the fullest. I have experience working with the LGBTQIA++ community. I am a trauma informed therapist, who utilizes active listening. Feeling alone when you are struggling is not ideal; I am here to help you identify coping skills to help you.
(847) 416-8227 View (847) 416-8227
Photo of Kat Zwick, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kat Zwick
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LCPC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660  (Online Only)
Availability for new full fee clients in Spring 2024! I provide ADHD solutions-focused therapy to gender expansive, queer, and neurodivergent adult clients. This work is skills-based, fun, sometimes hilarious, compassionate, non-judgmental and meant to help clients reach their goals with executive functioning, distress tolerance, behavior change, task completion, short-term blocks or hurdles, and long-term planning, organization, and emotion regulation. I also offer short-term DBT 'tune-up' individual therapy for those who already have DBT skills training and are seeking some short-term assistance with a particular challenge.
Availability for new full fee clients in Spring 2024! I provide ADHD solutions-focused therapy to gender expansive, queer, and neurodivergent adult clients. This work is skills-based, fun, sometimes hilarious, compassionate, non-judgmental and meant to help clients reach their goals with executive functioning, distress tolerance, behavior change, task completion, short-term blocks or hurdles, and long-term planning, organization, and emotion regulation. I also offer short-term DBT 'tune-up' individual therapy for those who already have DBT skills training and are seeking some short-term assistance with a particular challenge.
(831) 740-8296 View (831) 740-8296
Photo of Ride The Wave Recovery, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ride The Wave Recovery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LCPC, LPC, LMHC, CGP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660  (Online Only)
We proudly serve trans, non-binary and gender diverse clients, kinky, poly, and neurodivergent clients, clients of various sexual and romantic orientations, as well as those from a wide array of cultural, ethnic, socioeconomic, and racial backgrounds.
Accepting a limited number of new full fee clients or ADHD/Executive Functioning solutions-oriented therapy! Ride The Wave Recovery can serve clients in greater Santa Cruz, CA; Seattle/Tacoma, WA; and Chicago, IL. RtW offers solutions-oriented group and individual therapy to clients of all genders and sexualities living with ADHD and AuDHD with executive functioning support needs! RtW also provides social justice-oriented and neurodivergent-affirming DBT groups. All via Telehealth.
We proudly serve trans, non-binary and gender diverse clients, kinky, poly, and neurodivergent clients, clients of various sexual and romantic orientations, as well as those from a wide array of cultural, ethnic, socioeconomic, and racial backgrounds.
Accepting a limited number of new full fee clients or ADHD/Executive Functioning solutions-oriented therapy! Ride The Wave Recovery can serve clients in greater Santa Cruz, CA; Seattle/Tacoma, WA; and Chicago, IL. RtW offers solutions-oriented group and individual therapy to clients of all genders and sexualities living with ADHD and AuDHD with executive functioning support needs! RtW also provides social justice-oriented and neurodivergent-affirming DBT groups. All via Telehealth.
(831) 703-9309 View (831) 703-9309
Photo of James Searing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
James Searing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625  (Online Only)
I work well with creatives, LGBTQ+ folx, neurodivergent thinks, geeks, and gamers.
My own healing journey has taught me that life gets hard and healing is messy. You don’t have to go through this alone. Sometimes the journey leaves us in many pieces, scattered thoughts, overwhelming tasks, grief, and broken dreams. It can feel like looking at a whole mountain before you. The view from higher up is worth every step. I'm here to travel with you-challenging, cheering, and celebrating your wins along the way. Little by little, you can turn your dreams into reality. The world is now full of new problems from endless tabs, too much scrolling, and coping with collective existential stress.
I work well with creatives, LGBTQ+ folx, neurodivergent thinks, geeks, and gamers.
My own healing journey has taught me that life gets hard and healing is messy. You don’t have to go through this alone. Sometimes the journey leaves us in many pieces, scattered thoughts, overwhelming tasks, grief, and broken dreams. It can feel like looking at a whole mountain before you. The view from higher up is worth every step. I'm here to travel with you-challenging, cheering, and celebrating your wins along the way. Little by little, you can turn your dreams into reality. The world is now full of new problems from endless tabs, too much scrolling, and coping with collective existential stress.
(872) 219-0711 View (872) 219-0711
Photo of Kat Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kat Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
My areas of specialty include processing emotion, identity, relational conflict, depression, anxiety, self-compassion, and LGBTQ concerns.
Therapy is a place that balances acceptance and change. Maybe you have noticed an imbalance in your life and are struggling to either find out or work towards what matters most to you. I want to be your collaborator as we work towards what you care about by integrating mindfulness, looking at past patterns, and understanding how larger societal systems impact you. My goal is to help you live a life you feel connected to and are proud of. The success of our work together is dependent upon the establishment of a solid relationship between us and collaboration.
My areas of specialty include processing emotion, identity, relational conflict, depression, anxiety, self-compassion, and LGBTQ concerns.
Therapy is a place that balances acceptance and change. Maybe you have noticed an imbalance in your life and are struggling to either find out or work towards what matters most to you. I want to be your collaborator as we work towards what you care about by integrating mindfulness, looking at past patterns, and understanding how larger societal systems impact you. My goal is to help you live a life you feel connected to and are proud of. The success of our work together is dependent upon the establishment of a solid relationship between us and collaboration.
(312) 635-5698 View (312) 635-5698
Photo of Michelle Robinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
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.
(312) 313-4413 View (312) 313-4413
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Avis Calhoun, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Avis Calhoun
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
I also offer a rich background in working with the LGBTQIA+ & neurodivergent community, while specializing in gender trauma and other related challenges.
My approach is to create a nurturing environment where you feel accepted and understood. Collaborating closely, I will focus on establishing a respectful and safe space, empowering you throughout your journey. I hope to support you to confidently navigating the thoughts and emotions that hinder your progress, drawing upon your inner strengths and values to foster meaningful and lasting change with autonomy.
I also offer a rich background in working with the LGBTQIA+ & neurodivergent community, while specializing in gender trauma and other related challenges.
My approach is to create a nurturing environment where you feel accepted and understood. Collaborating closely, I will focus on establishing a respectful and safe space, empowering you throughout your journey. I hope to support you to confidently navigating the thoughts and emotions that hinder your progress, drawing upon your inner strengths and values to foster meaningful and lasting change with autonomy.
(312) 674-1033 View (312) 674-1033
Photo of Kathleen M Pendergast, Counselor in Chicago, IL
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.
(773) 717-5538 View (773) 717-5538
Photo of Lolita Drummond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lolita Drummond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Hello! I am delighted to introduce myself to you. My name is Li Drummond. I have worked with many different presenting issues including adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, suicide risk, stress, loss, trauma, struggles with drugs and alcohol, family problems, child welfare, family problems, offenders, and relationship difficulties. I feel comfortable working with clients ranging in age from children to adults and feel especially well-equipped to work with clients facing discrimination and marginalization including members of various immigrant communities, LGBTQIA+ clientele, black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC).
Hello! I am delighted to introduce myself to you. My name is Li Drummond. I have worked with many different presenting issues including adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, suicide risk, stress, loss, trauma, struggles with drugs and alcohol, family problems, child welfare, family problems, offenders, and relationship difficulties. I feel comfortable working with clients ranging in age from children to adults and feel especially well-equipped to work with clients facing discrimination and marginalization including members of various immigrant communities, LGBTQIA+ clientele, black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC).
(773) 985-6279 View (773) 985-6279
Photo of J Kenney Post Doctoral Fellow, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
J Kenney Post Doctoral Fellow
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I also have experience working with related difficulties, such as chemical and process addictions as well as eating disorders, and in marginalized populations, particularly LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Many people struggle with feeling lost and directionless or anxious about their ability to cope with life on life’s terms. For some people, these feelings can linger and become the painful lens through which you see yourself and the world. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With care and support, you can become more confident and loving toward yourself. You might even wake up one day and realize that instead of needing to read the instructional manual for life, you are ready to write your own. However, you might need some rough drafts and edits first. That is where therapy comes in.
I also have experience working with related difficulties, such as chemical and process addictions as well as eating disorders, and in marginalized populations, particularly LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Many people struggle with feeling lost and directionless or anxious about their ability to cope with life on life’s terms. For some people, these feelings can linger and become the painful lens through which you see yourself and the world. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With care and support, you can become more confident and loving toward yourself. You might even wake up one day and realize that instead of needing to read the instructional manual for life, you are ready to write your own. However, you might need some rough drafts and edits first. That is where therapy comes in.
(773) 694-9906 x2 View (773) 694-9906 x2
Photo of Breon Rose, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Breon Rose
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Hello, my name is Breon Rose. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. My approach to therapy involves collaborating with those I serve to decrease their distress and support their overall health. My approach to treatment requires teamwork and authenticity to solve problems. I have much experience supporting working-class clients and communities. I also support teenagers, culturally diverse persons, young adults, aging adults, and LGBTQIA+ persons. My scope of practice includes anxiety, stress, relationship, mood, and trauma-related concerns.
Hello, my name is Breon Rose. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. My approach to therapy involves collaborating with those I serve to decrease their distress and support their overall health. My approach to treatment requires teamwork and authenticity to solve problems. I have much experience supporting working-class clients and communities. I also support teenagers, culturally diverse persons, young adults, aging adults, and LGBTQIA+ persons. My scope of practice includes anxiety, stress, relationship, mood, and trauma-related concerns.
(773) 694-8399 View (773) 694-8399
Photo of Martha Tyler, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Martha Tyler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
I am LGBTQIA+ Affirming and dedicate time to learning about culturally sensitive approaches to treatment and unlearning personal racial/ethnic biases.
Change and growth happen within a safe and secure relationship. I am here to walk alongside you, offering compassionate curiosity, a safe space to explore your inner life, and deep insight. Wherever you are in your mental health journey, I’ll meet you there and together we can embrace the ambiguity of the human experience with humor, a sense of play, and compassion.
I am LGBTQIA+ Affirming and dedicate time to learning about culturally sensitive approaches to treatment and unlearning personal racial/ethnic biases.
Change and growth happen within a safe and secure relationship. I am here to walk alongside you, offering compassionate curiosity, a safe space to explore your inner life, and deep insight. Wherever you are in your mental health journey, I’ll meet you there and together we can embrace the ambiguity of the human experience with humor, a sense of play, and compassion.
(773) 840-0851 View (773) 840-0851
Photo of SFC Searching For Change, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
SFC Searching For Change
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT-S, SE-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
My practice works with a diverse population. I specialize in addiction, both Sex Addiction and a range of other addictions. I run groups for sex addicts and for the partners of sex addicts. I also specialize in trauma and work with adolescent and adult trauma survivors, both male and female. The practice also works with the LGBTQ community.
My practice works with a diverse population. I specialize in addiction, both Sex Addiction and a range of other addictions. I run groups for sex addicts and for the partners of sex addicts. I also specialize in trauma and work with adolescent and adult trauma survivors, both male and female. The practice also works with the LGBTQ community.
(917) 746-5114 View (917) 746-5114
Photo of Marco Coleman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Marco Coleman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I am anti-racist/ableist/sexist, sex positive and LGBTQIA affirming therapist striving to create a safe space for those who work with me.
For most people, we often find ourselves stuck in patterns, overwhelmed with circumstances and life can be unfair at the worst times. Life has a lot of metaphors for journeys because of how much they shape and twist around us, we can still get lost on the path forward. I believe that by building awareness in our behaviors, identity, emotions, social connections and past, will give you the best road map to really understand what is best for you. By acknowledging each client's unique background and identity (personality, goals, passions) I can create a strong and tailored treatment plan for their possible symptoms and concerns.
I am anti-racist/ableist/sexist, sex positive and LGBTQIA affirming therapist striving to create a safe space for those who work with me.
For most people, we often find ourselves stuck in patterns, overwhelmed with circumstances and life can be unfair at the worst times. Life has a lot of metaphors for journeys because of how much they shape and twist around us, we can still get lost on the path forward. I believe that by building awareness in our behaviors, identity, emotions, social connections and past, will give you the best road map to really understand what is best for you. By acknowledging each client's unique background and identity (personality, goals, passions) I can create a strong and tailored treatment plan for their possible symptoms and concerns.
(773) 923-2898 View (773) 923-2898
Photo of Aaron Karmin, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Aaron Karmin
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I am an active therapist in that I ask questions and offer consistent feedback to guide the session’s focus. I utilize an integrative style – applying a variety of approaches to best meet the needs of each client/couple and their concerns. I am a BIPOC affirming, anti-racist, LGBTQ+ inclusive therapist who strives to hold space for your unique narrative and intersectional self. I recognize the need for flexibility and creativity to address the mind and body. My approach focuses on identifying physical cues, recognizing thoughts, considering consequences, implementing solutions, choosing behaviors, and promoting expression.
I am an active therapist in that I ask questions and offer consistent feedback to guide the session’s focus. I utilize an integrative style – applying a variety of approaches to best meet the needs of each client/couple and their concerns. I am a BIPOC affirming, anti-racist, LGBTQ+ inclusive therapist who strives to hold space for your unique narrative and intersectional self. I recognize the need for flexibility and creativity to address the mind and body. My approach focuses on identifying physical cues, recognizing thoughts, considering consequences, implementing solutions, choosing behaviors, and promoting expression.
(888) 539-5275 View (888) 539-5275
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.