Therapists in Woodstock, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
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.
Torrie L Benson-Pryor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
Waitlist for new clients
My experience in social services consists of 20+ years of growth, first as a case manager and Social Svc. Director prior to licensure, then clinical experience as a child and family therapist in community mental health, an LCSW in an small group practice, and now my own practice since February 2016. I have extensive knowledge working with people living with grief/loss, Childhood trauma, Depression, Anxiety/Panic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and Personality disorders. I am experienced and passionate about working with First Responders, Military, Medical Professional, and anyone that has had traumatic experiences.
My experience in social services consists of 20+ years of growth, first as a case manager and Social Svc. Director prior to licensure, then clinical experience as a child and family therapist in community mental health, an LCSW in an small group practice, and now my own practice since February 2016. I have extensive knowledge working with people living with grief/loss, Childhood trauma, Depression, Anxiety/Panic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and Personality disorders. I am experienced and passionate about working with First Responders, Military, Medical Professional, and anyone that has had traumatic experiences.
Amanda Eannarino
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodstock, IL 60098
I have been providing psychological services to Mchenry county for the last 17 years. My experience is diverse and my approach to therapy is evidenced-based. I comprehend mental health issues from not only a psychological, but also from a social and neurological perspective. With this being stated I have developed a unique and comprehensive understanding of my clients. I have worked with several challenging clients and pride myself in my ability to modify treatment interventions for each client's unique needs. Essentially treatment is a team approach and I am here to walk with the client on the path to recovery.
I have been providing psychological services to Mchenry county for the last 17 years. My experience is diverse and my approach to therapy is evidenced-based. I comprehend mental health issues from not only a psychological, but also from a social and neurological perspective. With this being stated I have developed a unique and comprehensive understanding of my clients. I have worked with several challenging clients and pride myself in my ability to modify treatment interventions for each client's unique needs. Essentially treatment is a team approach and I am here to walk with the client on the path to recovery.
Janette Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098 (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Illinois. I received my doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. I have worked with clients of all ages and have extensive experience treating those with mood disorders and those who have experienced trauma. My approach is fundamentally humanistic. Through my own life experience and work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has proven to bring about great resolve. I believe the therapeutic relationship to be of the utmost importance. A "Good fit" is ideal and should be sought as well as treatment tailored to an individuals needs.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Illinois. I received my doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. I have worked with clients of all ages and have extensive experience treating those with mood disorders and those who have experienced trauma. My approach is fundamentally humanistic. Through my own life experience and work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has proven to bring about great resolve. I believe the therapeutic relationship to be of the utmost importance. A "Good fit" is ideal and should be sought as well as treatment tailored to an individuals needs.
Cherry Hill Counseling
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
More Therapists Nearby
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
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 and Integrative approach and have 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 and Integrative approach and have 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.
Center for Therapeutic Services-Crystal Lake
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
At Center for Therapeutic Services and Psychodiagnostics, we are committed to helping you with the most comprehensive, holistic services that are established in evidence-based treatment. You are unique and your circumstances are unique! We will apply a broad range of dynamic assessments that are individualized and tailored to fit your unique needs. We take a creative approach to treating complex mental health problems both on an individual and group level.
At Center for Therapeutic Services and Psychodiagnostics, we are committed to helping you with the most comprehensive, holistic services that are established in evidence-based treatment. You are unique and your circumstances are unique! We will apply a broad range of dynamic assessments that are individualized and tailored to fit your unique needs. We take a creative approach to treating complex mental health problems both on an individual and group level.
Meghan Scully
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I respect your courage and vision to seek a higher self, and I would be honored to assist you in this journey. In our individual and collective paths in life, clarity is sometimes elusive and the path foggy. It's good to join forces. My goal is to help you break free from what holds you in the pain of the past, so that you may walk freely in your own truth and light. Welcome to your next chapter!
Hello! I respect your courage and vision to seek a higher self, and I would be honored to assist you in this journey. In our individual and collective paths in life, clarity is sometimes elusive and the path foggy. It's good to join forces. My goal is to help you break free from what holds you in the pain of the past, so that you may walk freely in your own truth and light. Welcome to your next chapter!
Online Therapists
Luke (Frank Luke) Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ABS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
Expertise: sexual & gender diversity, erotic pleasure, relational intimacy, honesty, breaking the drug-sex link, men (cis & trans), masculinities, men's sexuality, discovering/ owning/ exchanging power, ethical alternative relationships, Kink/Fetish/BDSM.
Do other therapists seem judgmental? Don't understand? Won't listen to you? If you need to talk about anything and everything, clients tell me I have a strong capacity for compassion, empathy, and care. At the same time, I’m forthright and candid. I see you and hear you—a whole person (body, mind, spirit) living in an interactive and interconnected world. I believe you're the expert in you - even if you're not yet aware of it. My role is to help you find that, and bring my own holistic vision, experience, training, expertise, and tools to the table, so you can work to be the best possible version of you. I am a trauma specialist.
Expertise: sexual & gender diversity, erotic pleasure, relational intimacy, honesty, breaking the drug-sex link, men (cis & trans), masculinities, men's sexuality, discovering/ owning/ exchanging power, ethical alternative relationships, Kink/Fetish/BDSM.
Do other therapists seem judgmental? Don't understand? Won't listen to you? If you need to talk about anything and everything, clients tell me I have a strong capacity for compassion, empathy, and care. At the same time, I’m forthright and candid. I see you and hear you—a whole person (body, mind, spirit) living in an interactive and interconnected world. I believe you're the expert in you - even if you're not yet aware of it. My role is to help you find that, and bring my own holistic vision, experience, training, expertise, and tools to the table, so you can work to be the best possible version of you. I am a trauma specialist.
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.
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.
Harmony Center for Holistic Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Loves Park, IL 61111
Lisa Breisch specializes in the following: Depression/Mood/Anxiety Disorders, Child/Adolescent Behavioral Problems, ADHD, Brief Psychological Testing, Couples & Family Therapy, Eating Disorders & Weight Problems, Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender Issues, Trauma & Abuse, Addictions, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Chronic Pain, Stress Management, Hypnotherapy, Spirituality Concerns, and Holistic Healthcare.
Welcome! We provide traditional and holistic healing for mind, body & spirit health. We work with individuals, couples, families & groups age 5 and up. The facility is located on a main street with free parking. This is a private practice with a private waiting room in a very comfortable & soothing setting. Look for the yellow house with raspberry trim. Hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. When you call, we will do a brief intake, verify your insurance benefits & schedule your first appointment. We do not have a waiting list and can schedule your first appointment within the same week.
Lisa Breisch specializes in the following: Depression/Mood/Anxiety Disorders, Child/Adolescent Behavioral Problems, ADHD, Brief Psychological Testing, Couples & Family Therapy, Eating Disorders & Weight Problems, Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender Issues, Trauma & Abuse, Addictions, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Chronic Pain, Stress Management, Hypnotherapy, Spirituality Concerns, and Holistic Healthcare.
Welcome! We provide traditional and holistic healing for mind, body & spirit health. We work with individuals, couples, families & groups age 5 and up. The facility is located on a main street with free parking. This is a private practice with a private waiting room in a very comfortable & soothing setting. Look for the yellow house with raspberry trim. Hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. When you call, we will do a brief intake, verify your insurance benefits & schedule your first appointment. We do not have a waiting list and can schedule your first appointment within the same week.
Guided Path Psychological Services
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60074
I welcome folks regardless of group identification (LGBTQ, diversity, social status, religious affiliation etc.
"When life brings challenges that exceed your ability to cope, it might be the time to consider working with a competent, respectful, and understanding therapist. I believe in living life to the fullest extent possible, and sometimes that means peering into your past to understand how the solutions of yesterday transform to the problems of today. Whether your issue is substance abuse, unhealthy expression of anger, depression, anxiety, self esteem/body imagine or difficult relationships with others; counseling can be your first step towards a healthy way of living. Make that first step in your journey towards wellness.
I welcome folks regardless of group identification (LGBTQ, diversity, social status, religious affiliation etc.
"When life brings challenges that exceed your ability to cope, it might be the time to consider working with a competent, respectful, and understanding therapist. I believe in living life to the fullest extent possible, and sometimes that means peering into your past to understand how the solutions of yesterday transform to the problems of today. Whether your issue is substance abuse, unhealthy expression of anger, depression, anxiety, self esteem/body imagine or difficult relationships with others; counseling can be your first step towards a healthy way of living. Make that first step in your journey towards wellness.
Patricia Yadgir
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I am LGBTQ+ affirming with experience with individuals and couples in this population.
Life is full of transition and change. In times that are difficult, you may feel like you need a professional to help you process this time in your life. With over 25 years experience as a therapist, I work with individuals as well as couples on relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-esteem and body image disorders. I am goal-oriented and client-centered. As we talk, you will begin to understand why certain things may be happening in your life and learn tools and new ways of thinking that will allow you to leave therapy feeling more in charge of your life with the changes that you came in looking for.
I am LGBTQ+ affirming with experience with individuals and couples in this population.
Life is full of transition and change. In times that are difficult, you may feel like you need a professional to help you process this time in your life. With over 25 years experience as a therapist, I work with individuals as well as couples on relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-esteem and body image disorders. I am goal-oriented and client-centered. As we talk, you will begin to understand why certain things may be happening in your life and learn tools and new ways of thinking that will allow you to leave therapy feeling more in charge of your life with the changes that you came in looking for.
Melissa Mahon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Geneva, IL 60134
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and also offer life coaching and energy therapies. I have specialties working with adolescents and young adults, though enjoy adults at all ages. I have specialized training in the LGBTQ population and much of my passion is working with anxiety and self-confidence. Something I enjoy helping people with is coming out of definition and conclusion about who they are or what their life has to be. Instead of looking for what's wrong with you, I much prefer to ask the question, "What's right about you?" and how can you use to that to create the life you can't wait to get out of bed for every morning?
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and also offer life coaching and energy therapies. I have specialties working with adolescents and young adults, though enjoy adults at all ages. I have specialized training in the LGBTQ population and much of my passion is working with anxiety and self-confidence. Something I enjoy helping people with is coming out of definition and conclusion about who they are or what their life has to be. Instead of looking for what's wrong with you, I much prefer to ask the question, "What's right about you?" and how can you use to that to create the life you can't wait to get out of bed for every morning?
Dr. Mrnalini Rao
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
My clinical interests include identity concerns, relationship issues, family concerns, body image/eating concerns, intimacy concerns, trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment concerns, LGBTQIA+ support, cultural and racial issues.
I believe therapy is a journey of healing, understanding one’s self and creating ways to overcome challenges together. My clinical approach includes being supportive, collaborative, understanding each individual’s unique experience and creating a warm, safe and non-judgmental space. I embrace diversity, authenticity and am committed to being culturally sensitive and sex and gender affirming. I approach therapy from a variety of perspectives to accommodate needs of each individual using psychodynamic, process oriented, feminist, decolonizing therapy, social justice and multicultural models.
My clinical interests include identity concerns, relationship issues, family concerns, body image/eating concerns, intimacy concerns, trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment concerns, LGBTQIA+ support, cultural and racial issues.
I believe therapy is a journey of healing, understanding one’s self and creating ways to overcome challenges together. My clinical approach includes being supportive, collaborative, understanding each individual’s unique experience and creating a warm, safe and non-judgmental space. I embrace diversity, authenticity and am committed to being culturally sensitive and sex and gender affirming. I approach therapy from a variety of perspectives to accommodate needs of each individual using psychodynamic, process oriented, feminist, decolonizing therapy, social justice and multicultural models.
Jean M Hannigan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
My areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, PTSD, gender identity and LGBTQ issues I am certified in hypnotherapy and have a particular passion for working with the LGBTQ community.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I intimately understand that life can be stressful and that life transitions can be overwhelming and confusing. I understand that the upheaval of life often leads to feelings of fear, helplessness, and hopelessness and can be experienced as anxiety, depression, or simply a loss of self. I understand that you have questions about therapy….
My areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, PTSD, gender identity and LGBTQ issues I am certified in hypnotherapy and have a particular passion for working with the LGBTQ community.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I intimately understand that life can be stressful and that life transitions can be overwhelming and confusing. I understand that the upheaval of life often leads to feelings of fear, helplessness, and hopelessness and can be experienced as anxiety, depression, or simply a loss of self. I understand that you have questions about therapy….
Phillip M Licata
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
If you are looking for a therapist, it can be a very difficult choice. It is a deeply personal relationship, because that person will know you as well as anyone. The relationship is about functioning with less stress and anxiety, without depression holding you down, with relationships that are honest and healthy, and with real connection to family, friends and your highest self. Therapy is a conversation with yourself, facilitated by another, to bring about change in some area of your life. Change your mind and change your life! LGBTQ friendly and experienced. Tele-Health ready
If you are looking for a therapist, it can be a very difficult choice. It is a deeply personal relationship, because that person will know you as well as anyone. The relationship is about functioning with less stress and anxiety, without depression holding you down, with relationships that are honest and healthy, and with real connection to family, friends and your highest self. Therapy is a conversation with yourself, facilitated by another, to bring about change in some area of your life. Change your mind and change your life! LGBTQ friendly and experienced. Tele-Health ready
Ardent Counseling Center
PsyD, LCPC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Our therapists on staff are specially trained, clinical professional counselors, social workers and marriage and family therapist who provide, group therapy, and family therapy, Christian counseling, LGBT issues, eating disorders and a range of other specialized therapies.
The Ardent Counseling Center is a comprehensive psychotherapy practice providing counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families since 1988. We have 9 Chicagoland locations including, Hoffman Estates, Schaumburg, Lakeview (Chicago) and 5 Iowa Locations.
Our therapists on staff are specially trained, clinical professional counselors, social workers and marriage and family therapist who provide, group therapy, and family therapy, Christian counseling, LGBT issues, eating disorders and a range of other specialized therapies.
The Ardent Counseling Center is a comprehensive psychotherapy practice providing counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families since 1988. We have 9 Chicagoland locations including, Hoffman Estates, Schaumburg, Lakeview (Chicago) and 5 Iowa Locations.
Deborah Wilke
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, FAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404 (Online Only)
The Standards of Care put forth by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health direct my efforts at maintaining professionalism.
What? Me go to therapy? Yep. Every car functions better with a tune-up! I am the Founder and Owner of Compassionate Counseling. The practice was given this name because that is what I offer clients who are seeking professional help. The predominant specialty of my practice is treating those with gender identity concerns or sexual orientation issues. I am proud to have founded the first-ever professionally facilitated support group for transgender individuals in Illinois. I am also committed to helping those who have survived the loss of a loved one through death or the death of a relationship, as well as those have survived trauma.
The Standards of Care put forth by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health direct my efforts at maintaining professionalism.
What? Me go to therapy? Yep. Every car functions better with a tune-up! I am the Founder and Owner of Compassionate Counseling. The practice was given this name because that is what I offer clients who are seeking professional help. The predominant specialty of my practice is treating those with gender identity concerns or sexual orientation issues. I am proud to have founded the first-ever professionally facilitated support group for transgender individuals in Illinois. I am also committed to helping those who have survived the loss of a loved one through death or the death of a relationship, as well as those have survived trauma.
See more therapy options for Woodstock
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Woodstock
- Algonquin
- Carpentersville
- Cary
- Crystal Lake
- Fox Lake
- Fox River Grove
- Hampshire
- Huntley
- Lake In The Hills
- McHenry
- Wauconda
- West Dundee
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.