Photo of Obsidian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Counselor in Homewood, IL
Obsidian Institute of Integrative Medicine
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Homewood, IL 60430
Issues we work with: Anxiety, Depression, Anger Management, LGBTQ+ counseling, Premarital counseling, Trauma/PTSD, Substance Abuse, DUI, Co-occurring disorders, Stress Management, Boundary work, Attachment issues, Infidelity, Adaptive learning, and many more issues that can be discussed during consultation.
We work from a relational and cultural lense because the people you engage with on a daily basis affect the lense through which you view your world. Those lenses can diminish your ability to cope and form new, stable, and healthy connections, continuing to utilize unhealthy means of solving your dilemmas. The goal of therapy is to guide you in using your innate abilities to develop healthier lenses to view the world and healthy coping mechanisms. Mental Health Services: Individual Therapy, Group Therapy, Life Coaching, Mindfulness Meditation, Reiki, Vibration therapy, Crystal Work, and Cannabis-assisted Therapy.
Issues we work with: Anxiety, Depression, Anger Management, LGBTQ+ counseling, Premarital counseling, Trauma/PTSD, Substance Abuse, DUI, Co-occurring disorders, Stress Management, Boundary work, Attachment issues, Infidelity, Adaptive learning, and many more issues that can be discussed during consultation.
We work from a relational and cultural lense because the people you engage with on a daily basis affect the lense through which you view your world. Those lenses can diminish your ability to cope and form new, stable, and healthy connections, continuing to utilize unhealthy means of solving your dilemmas. The goal of therapy is to guide you in using your innate abilities to develop healthier lenses to view the world and healthy coping mechanisms. Mental Health Services: Individual Therapy, Group Therapy, Life Coaching, Mindfulness Meditation, Reiki, Vibration therapy, Crystal Work, and Cannabis-assisted Therapy.
(708) 367-3713 View (708) 367-3713
Photo of Krista Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Homewood, IL
Krista Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Homewood, IL 60430
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
Have you been struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety or panic attacks? Or are you tired of people using you or struggling to get motivated? I provide compassionate care while providing the tools and information to help you heal. Other challenges like drugs/alcohol, bipolar disorder; or if you're not sure what the problem is but need help and support, I will work with you to help you live a better, healthier life. My extensive experience also includes helping children, teens and adults impacted by foster care, have been adopted, are birth parents, or who are adoptive/ foster parents.
(708) 669-0730 View (708) 669-0730
Photo of Ke'ana Lampkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Homewood, IL
Ke'ana Lampkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Homewood, IL 60422
The things that we experience and go through in life can create different lens in which we see ourselves. Like a pair of glasses, each one is different and can have a different impact on the story we tell about who we are. Sometimes with the things we experience can create a lens of low sense of self, anxiety, depression, or even trauma responses. It's important to have someone you trust who can aid in walking you through those different experiences to be able to dismantle the thoughts and the emotions, from the experiences to lead you to living a happier and more fulfilling life.
The things that we experience and go through in life can create different lens in which we see ourselves. Like a pair of glasses, each one is different and can have a different impact on the story we tell about who we are. Sometimes with the things we experience can create a lens of low sense of self, anxiety, depression, or even trauma responses. It's important to have someone you trust who can aid in walking you through those different experiences to be able to dismantle the thoughts and the emotions, from the experiences to lead you to living a happier and more fulfilling life.
(872) 274-3322 View (872) 274-3322
Photo of Janice Boykin-Miles LCSW-Homewood & Burnham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Homewood, IL
Janice Boykin-Miles LCSW-Homewood & Burnham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Homewood, IL 60430
I have offices located in both Homewood & Burnham & I am a Christian Therapist who has worked in field of Social Services & Social work for the State of Illinois in various capacities (Caseworker, Child Welfare Specialist, Child Protection Investigator, Public Service Adm., CWS Trainer (at the Dept. of Children & Family Serv.), Part-time Univ. Lecturer (at GSU) & a Medical Social Worker at Advocate Health Care). As a seasoned Social Worker, I specialize in providing Individual, family & marriage counseling to teens, adolescents, young adults & Seniors. I am dedicated & confident that I can help you & your family achieve your goals.
I have offices located in both Homewood & Burnham & I am a Christian Therapist who has worked in field of Social Services & Social work for the State of Illinois in various capacities (Caseworker, Child Welfare Specialist, Child Protection Investigator, Public Service Adm., CWS Trainer (at the Dept. of Children & Family Serv.), Part-time Univ. Lecturer (at GSU) & a Medical Social Worker at Advocate Health Care). As a seasoned Social Worker, I specialize in providing Individual, family & marriage counseling to teens, adolescents, young adults & Seniors. I am dedicated & confident that I can help you & your family achieve your goals.
(708) 699-6086 View (708) 699-6086
Photo of Daryl Howard, Pre-Licensed Professional in Homewood, IL
Daryl Howard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Homewood, IL 60422
My ideal client is anyone who feels brave and willing enough to take the journey into self-discovery. Regardless of their issues clients need to know and experience positive regard, attentive listening and judgement free interactions. Clients need to feel that their concerns or needs can be met by a clinical professional. The goals of any client would come from collaboration and would hopefully be deemed realistic, worthwhile and attainable.
My ideal client is anyone who feels brave and willing enough to take the journey into self-discovery. Regardless of their issues clients need to know and experience positive regard, attentive listening and judgement free interactions. Clients need to feel that their concerns or needs can be met by a clinical professional. The goals of any client would come from collaboration and would hopefully be deemed realistic, worthwhile and attainable.
(708) 572-3109 View (708) 572-3109

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa D Tarr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Homewood, IL
Lisa D Tarr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Calumet City, IL 60409  (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 Edlicia Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Homewood, IL
Edlicia Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643  (Online Only)
I service various types of couples (heterosexual, poly, LGBTQIA, high conflict), various family compositions and individuals experiencing, abuse, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem and identity issues.
Relationships are challenging and trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, worry, shame and guilt are just some of the things that can hinder you from not only achieving a healthy relationship but also being the best version of yourself. As a Couples and Family therapist I help individuals, couples and families achieve relationship satisfaction, gain a deeper understanding of self and each other and heal from wounds that are negatively impacting the ability to heal. I believe that each individual in a relationship has their own individual thoughts and beliefs that are impacted by childhood and the families we are born into.
I service various types of couples (heterosexual, poly, LGBTQIA, high conflict), various family compositions and individuals experiencing, abuse, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem and identity issues.
Relationships are challenging and trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, worry, shame and guilt are just some of the things that can hinder you from not only achieving a healthy relationship but also being the best version of yourself. As a Couples and Family therapist I help individuals, couples and families achieve relationship satisfaction, gain a deeper understanding of self and each other and heal from wounds that are negatively impacting the ability to heal. I believe that each individual in a relationship has their own individual thoughts and beliefs that are impacted by childhood and the families we are born into.
(312) 598-1578 View (312) 598-1578
Photo of Lolita Drummond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Homewood, IL
Lolita Drummond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Dolton, IL 60419  (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 Khalilah Bruton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Homewood, IL
Khalilah Bruton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tinley Park, IL 60477
I also prioritize providing a safe and validating therapeutic environment for BIPOC individuals, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and other minorities struggling to survive under oppressive societal systems.
Sometimes life’s challenges can be difficult to navigate on our own. As a therapist, my role is to walk alongside you on your journey of healing and wellness. If you’ve been struggling with feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or stuck, we can work together to get you to a place where you have peace, clarity, and happiness.
I also prioritize providing a safe and validating therapeutic environment for BIPOC individuals, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and other minorities struggling to survive under oppressive societal systems.
Sometimes life’s challenges can be difficult to navigate on our own. As a therapist, my role is to walk alongside you on your journey of healing and wellness. If you’ve been struggling with feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or stuck, we can work together to get you to a place where you have peace, clarity, and happiness.
(708) 742-8245 View (708) 742-8245
Photo of Tolaya Geredine, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Homewood, IL
Tolaya Geredine
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Flossmoor, IL 60422  (Online Only)
I have special insights for people of color, professionals, mothers (single or not), and my LGBTQ+ family.
Feeling completed overwhelmed by a recent major life change? Are you a parent, recently ended a relationship, or simply experiencing the growing pains of life? Maybe you are ready to make some changes, but not sure exactly where to start. I am passionate in assisting you with sorting through family of origin issues, & then interrupting patterns that have kept you from the life & relationships that you deserve, including the one with self! l I am also trained in perinatal mental health. I can support you through pre-pregnancy through postpartum. Wherever you are on your life's journey, you don't have to live unfavorably in any way.
I have special insights for people of color, professionals, mothers (single or not), and my LGBTQ+ family.
Feeling completed overwhelmed by a recent major life change? Are you a parent, recently ended a relationship, or simply experiencing the growing pains of life? Maybe you are ready to make some changes, but not sure exactly where to start. I am passionate in assisting you with sorting through family of origin issues, & then interrupting patterns that have kept you from the life & relationships that you deserve, including the one with self! l I am also trained in perinatal mental health. I can support you through pre-pregnancy through postpartum. Wherever you are on your life's journey, you don't have to live unfavorably in any way.
(312) 626-3280 View (312) 626-3280
Photo of Sabrina Washington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Homewood, IL
Sabrina Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Monee, IL 60449  (Online Only)
I believe that dealing with stressful situations can become tough and overwhelming. But, I also believe that you have the ability – with professional guidance – to unlock your own potential and solve the problems that are holding you back from a more fulfilling life. My role is to partner with you in change, create specific and achievable goals, and work together in lock-step to help you reach your full potential. My ideal client has been suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship problems, immigration and acculturation issues, LGBTQIA+, burnout, trauma, and substance abuse and is looking to make a change for the better.
I believe that dealing with stressful situations can become tough and overwhelming. But, I also believe that you have the ability – with professional guidance – to unlock your own potential and solve the problems that are holding you back from a more fulfilling life. My role is to partner with you in change, create specific and achievable goals, and work together in lock-step to help you reach your full potential. My ideal client has been suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship problems, immigration and acculturation issues, LGBTQIA+, burnout, trauma, and substance abuse and is looking to make a change for the better.
(708) 938-3148 View (708) 938-3148
Photo of Sophia Aguirre, Psychologist in Homewood, IL
Sophia Aguirre
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, FAGPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603
Our practice is sex-positive, trauma-informed, weight-inclusive, affirming of folks from LGBTQ+, Kink, and Polyamory communities.
I have a passion for helping individuals establish more satisfying, authentic relationships with others and with themselves. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, therapeutic environment that fosters well-being, healing, and growth. I strive to establish a collaborative, empowering atmosphere that strikes the balance between support and challenge. My style is generally warm, direct, and transparent. I am an empathetic listener and actively participate in sessions by sharing my observations, fostering insight, and sharing practical feedback to help my clients find relief and to effectively address the challenges of life.
Our practice is sex-positive, trauma-informed, weight-inclusive, affirming of folks from LGBTQ+, Kink, and Polyamory communities.
I have a passion for helping individuals establish more satisfying, authentic relationships with others and with themselves. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, therapeutic environment that fosters well-being, healing, and growth. I strive to establish a collaborative, empowering atmosphere that strikes the balance between support and challenge. My style is generally warm, direct, and transparent. I am an empathetic listener and actively participate in sessions by sharing my observations, fostering insight, and sharing practical feedback to help my clients find relief and to effectively address the challenges of life.
(404) 565-4385 View (404) 565-4385
Photo of Michelle Robinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Homewood, IL
Michelle Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Glenwood, IL 60425  (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 Khesed Wellness in Homewood, IL
Khesed Wellness
LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Flossmoor, IL 60422
Sessions are $60 or FREE through our numerous pro bono programs for LGBTQ+ individuals, young people, restaurant workers, helping professionals, substance abuse, and those impacted by gun violence.
We believe everyone deserves access to quality mental health therapy they can afford. Our team of therapists offer a variety of expertise, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and substance use, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, faith, sexuality, boundary setting, identity exploration, and more. We offer individual, couples, and family sessions. Our goal is to match you with the therapist who is the best therapeutic, cultural and relational fit to meet your needs. We return all outreaches within one business day and match you with a therapist within one week so you don't have to wait for care. We're here for you.
Sessions are $60 or FREE through our numerous pro bono programs for LGBTQ+ individuals, young people, restaurant workers, helping professionals, substance abuse, and those impacted by gun violence.
We believe everyone deserves access to quality mental health therapy they can afford. Our team of therapists offer a variety of expertise, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and substance use, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, faith, sexuality, boundary setting, identity exploration, and more. We offer individual, couples, and family sessions. Our goal is to match you with the therapist who is the best therapeutic, cultural and relational fit to meet your needs. We return all outreaches within one business day and match you with a therapist within one week so you don't have to wait for care. We're here for you.
(972) 544-4168 View (972) 544-4168
Photo of T.jai Rogers, Counselor in Homewood, IL
T.jai Rogers
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
South Holland, IL 60473
I am culturally sensitive and LGBTQ+ affirming.
My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself that YOU want to be. I provide a positive, compassionate, judgment-free environment, allowing you to be yourself from the first session. When you are in a session with me, you can expect to feel respected, heard, and understood, all while continuing to address your needs. Every session will be catered to you and your specific challenges at that time. I can help you manage anxiety, symptoms of depression, relationship challenges, workplace struggles, or just the stressors of daily life, along with anything else in between. Together, we will make you better.
I am culturally sensitive and LGBTQ+ affirming.
My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself that YOU want to be. I provide a positive, compassionate, judgment-free environment, allowing you to be yourself from the first session. When you are in a session with me, you can expect to feel respected, heard, and understood, all while continuing to address your needs. Every session will be catered to you and your specific challenges at that time. I can help you manage anxiety, symptoms of depression, relationship challenges, workplace struggles, or just the stressors of daily life, along with anything else in between. Together, we will make you better.
(331) 204-0126 View (331) 204-0126
Photo of Jose Negrete, Licensed Social Worker in Homewood, IL
Jose Negrete
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Tinley Park, IL 60477  (Online Only)
I am delighted you found me here on Psychology Today. My ideal client comes from many different walks of life - children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My ideal client is looking for change and a therapist that is going to "shoot straight" with them and do more than just nod their head in agreement. My ideal client is looking for direction and change in their lives and wants a partner in change. I work with my ideal client on anxiety, major depression, trauma, couples counseling, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional-defiant disorder (ODD), and substance abuse, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
I am delighted you found me here on Psychology Today. My ideal client comes from many different walks of life - children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My ideal client is looking for change and a therapist that is going to "shoot straight" with them and do more than just nod their head in agreement. My ideal client is looking for direction and change in their lives and wants a partner in change. I work with my ideal client on anxiety, major depression, trauma, couples counseling, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional-defiant disorder (ODD), and substance abuse, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
(312) 376-3499 View (312) 376-3499
Photo of Wholistically Therapeutic, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Homewood, IL
Wholistically Therapeutic, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calumet City, IL 60409  (Online Only)
Are you seeking life changes? Do you want to build a healthy awareness of yourself? Are you experiencing emotional difficulties? If so, taking the first step to figure out the challenges you are enduring can be resolved. My approach to assisting you will be through a trauma-focused, integrated style where compassion is at the forefront of healing. The process is centered on collaboration, communication, authenticity, and trust.
Are you seeking life changes? Do you want to build a healthy awareness of yourself? Are you experiencing emotional difficulties? If so, taking the first step to figure out the challenges you are enduring can be resolved. My approach to assisting you will be through a trauma-focused, integrated style where compassion is at the forefront of healing. The process is centered on collaboration, communication, authenticity, and trust.
(773) 249-9338 View (773) 249-9338
Photo of Free Minded Counseling PLLC, Counselor in Homewood, IL
Free Minded Counseling PLLC
Counselor, PhD, EdD, LCSW, MA, CADC
Verified Verified
Alsip, IL 60658
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, we are here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in our sessions, we promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, we are here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in our sessions, we promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions.
(312) 945-0724 View (312) 945-0724
Photo of Dr. Ari Richelson, Psychologist in Homewood, IL
Dr. Ari Richelson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
In some ways, the decision you’re about to make is the hardest part of this process. Choosing the right therapist and “type of therapy” can be confusing. That’s why I’d like to explain a little about my training and my approach to make your choice a little easier. My training taught me that by knowing what to listen for, I can connect your symptoms to your past life experiences. Once we start to do that, I will help you identify the reasons those experiences were hard to resolve. When something is hard to resolve, we tend to avoid it, which is why our mind then tells us that something still feels unresolved by producing symptoms.
In some ways, the decision you’re about to make is the hardest part of this process. Choosing the right therapist and “type of therapy” can be confusing. That’s why I’d like to explain a little about my training and my approach to make your choice a little easier. My training taught me that by knowing what to listen for, I can connect your symptoms to your past life experiences. Once we start to do that, I will help you identify the reasons those experiences were hard to resolve. When something is hard to resolve, we tend to avoid it, which is why our mind then tells us that something still feels unresolved by producing symptoms.
(708) 478-9319 View (708) 478-9319
Photo of William Barker, Psychologist in Homewood, IL
William Barker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago Heights, IL 60411
Dr. Barker is a licensed clinical psychologist who practices and provides therapy to ethnically and socioeconomically diverse couples. Furthermore, he offers general psychological services to facilitate treatment for various marital issues, including depression, anxiety, stress management, conflict management, interpersonal difficulties, childhood trauma, and men’s issues. To further aid with treatment, he asks poignant questions to understand the underlying concerns and collaboratively works with the client to develop a plan of action.
Dr. Barker is a licensed clinical psychologist who practices and provides therapy to ethnically and socioeconomically diverse couples. Furthermore, he offers general psychological services to facilitate treatment for various marital issues, including depression, anxiety, stress management, conflict management, interpersonal difficulties, childhood trauma, and men’s issues. To further aid with treatment, he asks poignant questions to understand the underlying concerns and collaboratively works with the client to develop a plan of action.
(224) 337-5771 View (224) 337-5771
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.