Photo of Solomon Zinn Hallal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Solomon Zinn Hallal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
(802) 255-8683 View (802) 255-8683
Photo of Cassidy Dallas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Cassidy Dallas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Cassidy works through a trauma informed lens with LGBTQIA+ people and those who love us, navigating gender identity exploration, ADHD, autism, and more.
Welcome! The process of starting therapy seeking self-discovery, change, and growth can feel as scary and overwhelming as it can feel hopeful and necessary. You deserve compassionate, skilled support while you face these challenges, and to work with someone who makes you feel safe, listened to, understood and seen. Within a professional and supportive therapeutic environment, Cassidy will guide you with sensitivity and kindness through a psychotherapy journey tailored to your unique needs and desires. The result will be that you will navigate complexities and build a meaningful life with warmth, authenticity, connection, and joy.
Cassidy works through a trauma informed lens with LGBTQIA+ people and those who love us, navigating gender identity exploration, ADHD, autism, and more.
Welcome! The process of starting therapy seeking self-discovery, change, and growth can feel as scary and overwhelming as it can feel hopeful and necessary. You deserve compassionate, skilled support while you face these challenges, and to work with someone who makes you feel safe, listened to, understood and seen. Within a professional and supportive therapeutic environment, Cassidy will guide you with sensitivity and kindness through a psychotherapy journey tailored to your unique needs and desires. The result will be that you will navigate complexities and build a meaningful life with warmth, authenticity, connection, and joy.
(978) 216-2986 View (978) 216-2986
Photo of Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC, Counselor in Massachusetts
Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it is like to be queer? Or a therapist that can help you navigate the ups and downs of non traditional relationships or family styles? You deserve therapy that is affirming and judgement-free while working through difficulties with communication, intimacy, mental health, sleep, eating, addiction, career stress, faith/religion, gender dysphoria and/or transitioning. You deserve therapy in the comfort of your own home that is easily accessible through computer or phone via secure tele-health.
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it is like to be queer? Or a therapist that can help you navigate the ups and downs of non traditional relationships or family styles? You deserve therapy that is affirming and judgement-free while working through difficulties with communication, intimacy, mental health, sleep, eating, addiction, career stress, faith/religion, gender dysphoria and/or transitioning. You deserve therapy in the comfort of your own home that is easily accessible through computer or phone via secure tele-health.
(508) 403-9111 View (508) 403-9111
Photo of Piero Goytizolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Piero Goytizolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02143  (Online Only)
Hello/hola! My name is Piero and I am a gay, Peruvian, Spanish-speaking man who loves pizza. I deeply enjoy meeting with individuals, couples, and families, and it would be an honor to see how I can help you. I believe the most important thing in the therapeutic relationship is our connection, and that you enjoy meeting with me. You want a therapist who you look forward to seeing and who you feel comfortable and safe with, who is also willing to challenge you and help you grow. I like to be warm and friendly as well as direct and blunt, use humor when appropriate, and am comfortable talking about anything.
Hello/hola! My name is Piero and I am a gay, Peruvian, Spanish-speaking man who loves pizza. I deeply enjoy meeting with individuals, couples, and families, and it would be an honor to see how I can help you. I believe the most important thing in the therapeutic relationship is our connection, and that you enjoy meeting with me. You want a therapist who you look forward to seeing and who you feel comfortable and safe with, who is also willing to challenge you and help you grow. I like to be warm and friendly as well as direct and blunt, use humor when appropriate, and am comfortable talking about anything.
(617) 996-8904 View (617) 996-8904
Photo of Celeste Souza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Celeste Souza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02126  (Online Only)
Celeste is a seasoned psychotherapist with over twenty years’ experience helping people cope with emotional pain and improve the way they navigate relationships. She specializes in treating depression and anxiety; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and substance use disorders. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Celeste ensures that therapy occurs in a supportive and nurturing environment that is sensitive to client concerns around issues of sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender dysphoria. Celeste uses she/her pronouns and lives with her wife and three Portuguese Podengo rescue dogs.
Celeste is a seasoned psychotherapist with over twenty years’ experience helping people cope with emotional pain and improve the way they navigate relationships. She specializes in treating depression and anxiety; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and substance use disorders. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Celeste ensures that therapy occurs in a supportive and nurturing environment that is sensitive to client concerns around issues of sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender dysphoria. Celeste uses she/her pronouns and lives with her wife and three Portuguese Podengo rescue dogs.
(314) 328-6094 View (314) 328-6094
Photo of Rachel Ellingson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Rachel Ellingson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144
Hi, my name is Rachel, and I’m excited to be providing queer-affirming therapy through Queer Therapy Boston. As a queer and nonbinary neurodivergent fat person, I bring not only clinical experience but also lived experience in these areas. I specialize in working with queer and trans individuals, couples and polycules. I am poly and kink friendly, and have extensive experience working with people who have experienced complex trauma, are exploring their identities, going through life transitions, and just trying to survive under capitalism.
Hi, my name is Rachel, and I’m excited to be providing queer-affirming therapy through Queer Therapy Boston. As a queer and nonbinary neurodivergent fat person, I bring not only clinical experience but also lived experience in these areas. I specialize in working with queer and trans individuals, couples and polycules. I am poly and kink friendly, and have extensive experience working with people who have experienced complex trauma, are exploring their identities, going through life transitions, and just trying to survive under capitalism.
(857) 226-3278 View (857) 226-3278
Photo of Cody S Timmons, Counselor in Massachusetts
Cody S Timmons
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medford, MA 02155  (Online Only)
I have increased experience with helping individuals of the LGBTQIA population and particular issues that are associated with the community. I have a wide range of experience working with children, adolescents, families, couples, and individuals in therapy. I work to provide a judgement free space for individuals to share and explore who they are. I am a strong believer in supporting people through difficult change and helping them discover more about themselves through the process. My main focus of theoretical orientation is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy.
I have increased experience with helping individuals of the LGBTQIA population and particular issues that are associated with the community. I have a wide range of experience working with children, adolescents, families, couples, and individuals in therapy. I work to provide a judgement free space for individuals to share and explore who they are. I am a strong believer in supporting people through difficult change and helping them discover more about themselves through the process. My main focus of theoretical orientation is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy.
(508) 519-3786 View (508) 519-3786
Photo of David Hensley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
David Hensley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02122  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a background in working with families, older adults, and individuals with significant mental health struggles; I also have a passion for working with LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Are you finding yourself struggling to get through your day? Having trouble motivating yourself to take that next step? Are you having challenges in your personal relationships? Everyone struggles with these issues but despite how difficult and overwhelming it may feel, the first step to change can be reaching out to a therapist. While it may be hard to reach out, you will be better off for it in the long run. Whether you are dealing with feelings of sadness, overwhelmed in your day to day life, general stress, or anxiety/depression, I know that together we can build a plan to address and improve your future.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a background in working with families, older adults, and individuals with significant mental health struggles; I also have a passion for working with LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Are you finding yourself struggling to get through your day? Having trouble motivating yourself to take that next step? Are you having challenges in your personal relationships? Everyone struggles with these issues but despite how difficult and overwhelming it may feel, the first step to change can be reaching out to a therapist. While it may be hard to reach out, you will be better off for it in the long run. Whether you are dealing with feelings of sadness, overwhelmed in your day to day life, general stress, or anxiety/depression, I know that together we can build a plan to address and improve your future.
(617) 925-9703 View (617) 925-9703
Photo of Monique Noelle, Psychologist in Massachusetts
Monique Noelle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139  (Online Only)
Therapy clients may be seeking insight, new ways of coping, relief from suffering, or to be less alone with life’s challenges. I draw flexibly from many approaches, and ultimately, I believe it is the relationship that heals, as well as learning to be a kind friend to oneself. I believe that good mental health means feeling you have choices and making them consciously. Many of my clients strive to be more fully themselves. My practice has a focus on the BGLTQ+ Community, especially trans, gender diverse, and polyamorous people, and I also tend to see a lot of geeky and neurodivergent people.
Therapy clients may be seeking insight, new ways of coping, relief from suffering, or to be less alone with life’s challenges. I draw flexibly from many approaches, and ultimately, I believe it is the relationship that heals, as well as learning to be a kind friend to oneself. I believe that good mental health means feeling you have choices and making them consciously. Many of my clients strive to be more fully themselves. My practice has a focus on the BGLTQ+ Community, especially trans, gender diverse, and polyamorous people, and I also tend to see a lot of geeky and neurodivergent people.
(617) 751-1178 View (617) 751-1178
Photo of Disha Joshi, Counselor in Massachusetts
Disha Joshi
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adults who are in a transitionary point of their lives, including college students, single parents, first-generation immigrants, people of color, older adults, and Queer folks.
Therapy offers a chance to change things up. Each is its own little safe haven designed to release difficult emotions and gain different perspectives from the one that keeps us stuck. Let me help you clear out the cobwebs of your life! My goal is to create a warm environment that fosters real human connection that leaves you feeling like you are part of something bigger than yourself.
I enjoy working with adults who are in a transitionary point of their lives, including college students, single parents, first-generation immigrants, people of color, older adults, and Queer folks.
Therapy offers a chance to change things up. Each is its own little safe haven designed to release difficult emotions and gain different perspectives from the one that keeps us stuck. Let me help you clear out the cobwebs of your life! My goal is to create a warm environment that fosters real human connection that leaves you feeling like you are part of something bigger than yourself.
(857) 420-5684 View (857) 420-5684
Photo of Kaylin Petracca, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Kaylin Petracca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, MA 01364  (Online Only)
I applaud you for considering therapy, as it can be a challenging decision and may invoke a variety of feelings. You may have experienced a traumatic event or series of events that continue to impact your life, you may be exploring your identity and personal belief systems, or you may be experiencing complex emotions that you'd like support in processing. I am passionate about working with trauma survivors, especially those within the LGBTQ community. Trauma is complex and unique to each survivor.
I applaud you for considering therapy, as it can be a challenging decision and may invoke a variety of feelings. You may have experienced a traumatic event or series of events that continue to impact your life, you may be exploring your identity and personal belief systems, or you may be experiencing complex emotions that you'd like support in processing. I am passionate about working with trauma survivors, especially those within the LGBTQ community. Trauma is complex and unique to each survivor.
(978) 541-1701 View (978) 541-1701
Photo of Cristina Vesprini, Counselor in Massachusetts
Cristina Vesprini
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
I believe "Feeling Good" matters and that it takes both strength and courage to seek out therapy. I am a licensed mental health counselor, who received my master's degree in mental health counseling from The College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY. I have 10+ years of experience working with children, teens, and adults providing both child, individual, and family therapy. Some of my specialty areas include life transitions, relationship/family issues and dynamics, narcissistic abuse, women's issues, self-worth, LGBTQ+, sexuality, and gender identity, along with grief and loss.
I believe "Feeling Good" matters and that it takes both strength and courage to seek out therapy. I am a licensed mental health counselor, who received my master's degree in mental health counseling from The College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY. I have 10+ years of experience working with children, teens, and adults providing both child, individual, and family therapy. Some of my specialty areas include life transitions, relationship/family issues and dynamics, narcissistic abuse, women's issues, self-worth, LGBTQ+, sexuality, and gender identity, along with grief and loss.
(617) 934-3862 View (617) 934-3862
Photo of Andrea Kelley @ The Psyched Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Andrea Kelley @ The Psyched Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middleborough, MA 02346
I am a mental health counselor dedicated to supporting diverse communities, specializing in LGBTQ+ individuals, women, families, and children. My journey began with a deep commitment to addressing mental health within marginalized groups, and I've honed my expertise through specialized training and hands-on experience. I create safe and affirming spaces for ALL individuals to explore identity, relationships, and mental health concerns. With women, I navigate issues related to empowerment, conquering trauma, body image, and gender roles. Working with families, I foster communication and understanding while promoting healthy dynamics.
I am a mental health counselor dedicated to supporting diverse communities, specializing in LGBTQ+ individuals, women, families, and children. My journey began with a deep commitment to addressing mental health within marginalized groups, and I've honed my expertise through specialized training and hands-on experience. I create safe and affirming spaces for ALL individuals to explore identity, relationships, and mental health concerns. With women, I navigate issues related to empowerment, conquering trauma, body image, and gender roles. Working with families, I foster communication and understanding while promoting healthy dynamics.
(508) 504-9887 x715 View (508) 504-9887 x715
Photo of Kelsey Brey, Counselor in Massachusetts
Kelsey Brey
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lynn, MA 01901
As a member of the community, I cultivate an environment that is safe and welcoming for those identifying as LGBTQ+. I support those dealing with more severe psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, self harm, personality disorders, and trauma. I also have interest and commitment to helping my clients navigate the unique challenges associated with young adulthood which include the commonly experienced issues of identity exploration, relationship growth, learning to thrive in academic environments, achieving success with vocational pursuits, and establishing independence.
As a member of the community, I cultivate an environment that is safe and welcoming for those identifying as LGBTQ+. I support those dealing with more severe psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, self harm, personality disorders, and trauma. I also have interest and commitment to helping my clients navigate the unique challenges associated with young adulthood which include the commonly experienced issues of identity exploration, relationship growth, learning to thrive in academic environments, achieving success with vocational pursuits, and establishing independence.
(781) 579-6551 View (781) 579-6551
Photo of Tiffany Crockett, Counselor in Massachusetts
Tiffany Crockett
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Watertown, MA 02472  (Online Only)
Hi, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Expressive Art Therapist. I am not a blank slate therapist and am quite expressive (which could be assumed due to being an expressive art therapist). I have personal experience with mental health illnesses, chronic physical health issues, addiction as well as my own fair share of trauma. I am no stranger to being in your chair. I also am very transparent about where I stand politically aka human rights and am a loud and proud queer! Therapy already has power dynamics and I as a white cis person am very aware of this and do my best to name it, listen and make changes when needed.
Hi, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Expressive Art Therapist. I am not a blank slate therapist and am quite expressive (which could be assumed due to being an expressive art therapist). I have personal experience with mental health illnesses, chronic physical health issues, addiction as well as my own fair share of trauma. I am no stranger to being in your chair. I also am very transparent about where I stand politically aka human rights and am a loud and proud queer! Therapy already has power dynamics and I as a white cis person am very aware of this and do my best to name it, listen and make changes when needed.
(617) 915-3524 View (617) 915-3524
Photo of Karina Gruesz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Karina Gruesz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
While I have experience working with a wide range of people of different ages and backgrounds, I specialize working with ADHD and neurodivergent individuals and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as those experiencing challenges with substance use, borderline personality disorder, complex trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Whether you are brand new to therapy or are many years into your journey, you deserve a place free from judgement where you can deepen your self understanding, build confidence in yourself, and find solutions to the problems you are facing. My approach to therapy is collaborative and strengths-based, centering on your goals and recognizing the capacity all humans possess to grow, heal, and change. I see my role as a therapist to provide you with the tools, resources and supportive environment (with a side of humor) necessary to foster that growth and get "unstuck" when facing challenges in your life.
While I have experience working with a wide range of people of different ages and backgrounds, I specialize working with ADHD and neurodivergent individuals and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as those experiencing challenges with substance use, borderline personality disorder, complex trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Whether you are brand new to therapy or are many years into your journey, you deserve a place free from judgement where you can deepen your self understanding, build confidence in yourself, and find solutions to the problems you are facing. My approach to therapy is collaborative and strengths-based, centering on your goals and recognizing the capacity all humans possess to grow, heal, and change. I see my role as a therapist to provide you with the tools, resources and supportive environment (with a side of humor) necessary to foster that growth and get "unstuck" when facing challenges in your life.
(508) 709-6340 View (508) 709-6340
Photo of Sarah Bolte, Counselor in Massachusetts
Sarah Bolte
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
I am an LGBTQIA+ identified clinician.
I am interested in sex-positive and inclusive sex-education, overdose awareness and prevention, supporting survivors of IPV/trafficking, immigration rights, and the advocacy for person-centered terminology and equal treatment access for substance use and mental health. I have experience working with adults with co-occurring substance use diagnoses and utilizes a relational, trauma-informed, mind-body approach with an emphasis on increasing self-motivation and self-esteem collaboratively with clients.
I am an LGBTQIA+ identified clinician.
I am interested in sex-positive and inclusive sex-education, overdose awareness and prevention, supporting survivors of IPV/trafficking, immigration rights, and the advocacy for person-centered terminology and equal treatment access for substance use and mental health. I have experience working with adults with co-occurring substance use diagnoses and utilizes a relational, trauma-informed, mind-body approach with an emphasis on increasing self-motivation and self-esteem collaboratively with clients.
(857) 626-9789 View (857) 626-9789
Photo of Samantha Ricci, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Samantha Ricci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mansfield, MA 02048  (Online Only)
I am a proudly LGBTQ+ Licensed Certified Social Worker who provides outpatient therapy to adults and couples struggling with depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, traumatic histories, LGBTQIA+ issues, and interpersonal relationship problems. You can expect me to show up fully and authentically in my therapeutic work. I believe that you are the expert on your life and my goal is to work collaboratively with you to support you in moving towards a more joyful, authentic, and wholehearted way of living.
I am a proudly LGBTQ+ Licensed Certified Social Worker who provides outpatient therapy to adults and couples struggling with depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, traumatic histories, LGBTQIA+ issues, and interpersonal relationship problems. You can expect me to show up fully and authentically in my therapeutic work. I believe that you are the expert on your life and my goal is to work collaboratively with you to support you in moving towards a more joyful, authentic, and wholehearted way of living.
(774) 500-3731 View (774) 500-3731
Photo of Marguerite Flynn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Marguerite Flynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
Welcome! It’s a significant step forward! I'm a licensed therapist in Tennessee and Massachusetts. With 5+ years in acute psychiatric settings, I focus on individuals and families. I’m passionate about supporting adolescents, teens, young adults, and their families using personalized, evidence-based techniques. Areas of expertise include: depression, trauma recovery, eating disorders, teens, LGBTQ+, and more. I am seeking clients to collaborate on personalized growth strategies, and navigate life's challenges.
Welcome! It’s a significant step forward! I'm a licensed therapist in Tennessee and Massachusetts. With 5+ years in acute psychiatric settings, I focus on individuals and families. I’m passionate about supporting adolescents, teens, young adults, and their families using personalized, evidence-based techniques. Areas of expertise include: depression, trauma recovery, eating disorders, teens, LGBTQ+, and more. I am seeking clients to collaborate on personalized growth strategies, and navigate life's challenges.
(629) 276-6776 x100 View (629) 276-6776 x100
Photo of Bethany Leeman-Weil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Bethany Leeman-Weil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, MA 02186  (Online Only)
Holistic Psychotherapy With Heart. Located in Boston area, licensed to provide telehealth services across Massachusetts. Seasoned Humanistic Therapist caring for LGBTQIA+, polyamorous/CNM, spirituality/metaphysics- and self-development-minded folks, people with HIV/AIDS, substance dependence, grief/loss, medical illness, fertility/peripartum concerns, trauma. Sex/kink-positive. Antiracist. Feminist. Warm, interactive, playful, wise, catalytic. Striving for humility. Trained in cultural competency. Hold all humans as equally worthy of love, safety, resources, peace, health, joy, respect, and dignity.
Holistic Psychotherapy With Heart. Located in Boston area, licensed to provide telehealth services across Massachusetts. Seasoned Humanistic Therapist caring for LGBTQIA+, polyamorous/CNM, spirituality/metaphysics- and self-development-minded folks, people with HIV/AIDS, substance dependence, grief/loss, medical illness, fertility/peripartum concerns, trauma. Sex/kink-positive. Antiracist. Feminist. Warm, interactive, playful, wise, catalytic. Striving for humility. Trained in cultural competency. Hold all humans as equally worthy of love, safety, resources, peace, health, joy, respect, and dignity.
(857) 384-4994 View (857) 384-4994

See more therapy options for Massachusetts

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.