Photo of Dr. John DeHart, Psychologist in Cumberland, MD
Dr. John DeHart
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cumberland, MD 21502  (Online Only)
I have counseled people from a variety of sociocultural backgrounds, but most of my expertise has involved working with people on the LGBTQ+ spectrum, young adults, individuals in antagonistic relationships, and those coping with HIV or other illnesses.
Because each person is a complex individual, my approach to therapy addresses the whole person and extends beyond the reduction of symptoms. My focus is on understanding and addressing your individual needs, and my primary goal is to help you to make sustainable changes and to live a fuller life. Whatever your circumstances, I want you to know that you are being heard and understood and are not alone in facing the challenges in your life. However you identify yourself, I want you to feel comfortable and respected.
I have counseled people from a variety of sociocultural backgrounds, but most of my expertise has involved working with people on the LGBTQ+ spectrum, young adults, individuals in antagonistic relationships, and those coping with HIV or other illnesses.
Because each person is a complex individual, my approach to therapy addresses the whole person and extends beyond the reduction of symptoms. My focus is on understanding and addressing your individual needs, and my primary goal is to help you to make sustainable changes and to live a fuller life. Whatever your circumstances, I want you to know that you are being heard and understood and are not alone in facing the challenges in your life. However you identify yourself, I want you to feel comfortable and respected.
(240) 716-5448 View (240) 716-5448
Photo of Karen M Hillman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Karen M Hillman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cumberland, MD 21502  (Online Only)
I have a particular interest in working with members of LGBTQIA+ communities, with Autistic adults, and with partners and family members of Autistic adults.
Feeling “stuck,” is often the reason for seeking therapy: feeling stuck in relationships or relational patterns, in grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions and more. You may be feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood or unseen. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, compassionate, and affirming space for individuals who are looking to create change or find a sense of peace in their lives.
I have a particular interest in working with members of LGBTQIA+ communities, with Autistic adults, and with partners and family members of Autistic adults.
Feeling “stuck,” is often the reason for seeking therapy: feeling stuck in relationships or relational patterns, in grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions and more. You may be feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood or unseen. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, compassionate, and affirming space for individuals who are looking to create change or find a sense of peace in their lives.
(443) 730-5940 View (443) 730-5940
Photo of Donna L Rice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Donna L Rice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MAC, ADS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Cumberland, MD 21502
I am a clinical social worker who practices therapy in the area of dual diagnosis. I work with adult clients who have behavioral health or addictions issues, or both. I believe to feel better, we need to work on the WHOLE person not just a part. I worked for the Military for five years and I have background in trauma, PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injuries and many addiction issues.
I am a clinical social worker who practices therapy in the area of dual diagnosis. I work with adult clients who have behavioral health or addictions issues, or both. I believe to feel better, we need to work on the WHOLE person not just a part. I worked for the Military for five years and I have background in trauma, PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injuries and many addiction issues.
(301) 710-6784 View (301) 710-6784
Photo of Lisa M Castleman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Lisa M Castleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Cumberland, MD 21502
Having started my profession a little later in life, I have an understanding of many issues that people of all ages face today. I have worked in many areas and hope to help those with mental health, behavioral health and personal issues that are troubling them. My education is in social work, which provides a broader generalist perspective to my work with children and adults.
Having started my profession a little later in life, I have an understanding of many issues that people of all ages face today. I have worked in many areas and hope to help those with mental health, behavioral health and personal issues that are troubling them. My education is in social work, which provides a broader generalist perspective to my work with children and adults.
(240) 839-4748 View (240) 839-4748
Photo of Rayelle Davis, Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Rayelle Davis
Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LCPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Cumberland, MD 21502  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I help people break cycles and patterns that no longer serve them so that they can live a life that aligns with their values. If you are looking for increased understanding of yourself or coping skills to help you navigate the stressors of an ever changing world, I got you! I use a trauma informed systems approach to help you unpack, unlearn, and heal. I have additional expertise treating adults with ADHD.
I help people break cycles and patterns that no longer serve them so that they can live a life that aligns with their values. If you are looking for increased understanding of yourself or coping skills to help you navigate the stressors of an ever changing world, I got you! I use a trauma informed systems approach to help you unpack, unlearn, and heal. I have additional expertise treating adults with ADHD.
(240) 213-9294 View (240) 213-9294
Photo of Best Life Therapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Best Life Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Cumberland, MD 21502
Experienced and compassionate therapist ready to listen, guide and offer you a different perspective to help you live your best life. An eclectic approach is utilized to help you process and overcome past trauma, learn new ways of coping with life stressors and improve how you feel about yourself. Specializing in helping you cope with loss, life transitions, symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Experienced and compassionate therapist ready to listen, guide and offer you a different perspective to help you live your best life. An eclectic approach is utilized to help you process and overcome past trauma, learn new ways of coping with life stressors and improve how you feel about yourself. Specializing in helping you cope with loss, life transitions, symptoms of depression and anxiety.
(240) 202-3169 View (240) 202-3169
Photo of Loretta Clarise Pettiford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Loretta Clarise Pettiford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, CP
Verified Verified
Cumberland, MD 21502  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with sadness and emotional pain, help is available. I am a Clinical Social Worker and a Creative Arts therapist. I am a Certified Sand Tray therapist, and Psychodramatist. As a Clinician with the Department of Defense, I have treated all branches of the military and their family members for over 20 years, both in the states and overseas. I currently have a private practice in Washington D.C. and Maryland. I also provide Online Video Therapy, texting, and Skype. As your therapist, my role is to help you navigate through emotional pain while obtaining workable solutions.
If you are struggling with sadness and emotional pain, help is available. I am a Clinical Social Worker and a Creative Arts therapist. I am a Certified Sand Tray therapist, and Psychodramatist. As a Clinician with the Department of Defense, I have treated all branches of the military and their family members for over 20 years, both in the states and overseas. I currently have a private practice in Washington D.C. and Maryland. I also provide Online Video Therapy, texting, and Skype. As your therapist, my role is to help you navigate through emotional pain while obtaining workable solutions.
(301) 338-6067 View (301) 338-6067
Photo of Misti Slaughter, Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Misti Slaughter
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Cumberland, MD 21502  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Approved Supervisor in the State of MD. I have many years of experience as a mental health professional where I have been employed in a variety of settings. I have worked in a traditional outpatient counseling office, as a crisis counselor, and within primary care offices. Prior to completion of my master’s degree I worked as a Certified Addiction Counselor.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Approved Supervisor in the State of MD. I have many years of experience as a mental health professional where I have been employed in a variety of settings. I have worked in a traditional outpatient counseling office, as a crisis counselor, and within primary care offices. Prior to completion of my master’s degree I worked as a Certified Addiction Counselor.
(240) 213-4392 View (240) 213-4392

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Ronald J. Dahl, Psychologist in Cumberland, MD
Dr. Ronald J. Dahl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lavale, MD 21502
Virtual Visits are possible. Sometimes the demands of everyday life can be overwhelming. Relationships, work, and daily life can be difficult to navigate when we are stuck in symptoms. But you don't have to let issues negatively impact your life. We will work together to move you out of the difficulties and on to better living. My treatment style is collaborative, using a non-judgmental approach, with achievable goals to help develop effective coping skills and reduce symptoms.
Virtual Visits are possible. Sometimes the demands of everyday life can be overwhelming. Relationships, work, and daily life can be difficult to navigate when we are stuck in symptoms. But you don't have to let issues negatively impact your life. We will work together to move you out of the difficulties and on to better living. My treatment style is collaborative, using a non-judgmental approach, with achievable goals to help develop effective coping skills and reduce symptoms.
(240) 376-3350 View (240) 376-3350

Online Therapists

Photo of Marvida Lake, Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Marvida Lake
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Pregnancy and motherhood, life transitions, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ identity, career stress, relationships issues, trauma, self worth, worry and overwhelm and concentration issues are my areas of clinical expertise. I use Trauma Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to decrease and manage the frequency, duration and intensity of their symptoms.  I'll incorporate your values, identities, faith and cultural practices and belief systems. We will identify symptoms and implement long-term coping strategies that are practical for your personality and lifestyle.
Pregnancy and motherhood, life transitions, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ identity, career stress, relationships issues, trauma, self worth, worry and overwhelm and concentration issues are my areas of clinical expertise. I use Trauma Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to decrease and manage the frequency, duration and intensity of their symptoms.  I'll incorporate your values, identities, faith and cultural practices and belief systems. We will identify symptoms and implement long-term coping strategies that are practical for your personality and lifestyle.
(240) 202-2677 View (240) 202-2677
Photo of Nathaniel Eckland, Psychologist in Cumberland, MD
Nathaniel Eckland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
I provide culturally-humble, LGBTQ+ and gender-affirming care to adolescents (14 and up) and adults (18-80+), and couples.
Problems like depression and anxiety can hold us back from living the life we want. Therapy can be challenging but the rewards are often worth the investment. Through therapy we can learn to change habits (thinking and behavioral) that no longer serve us and learn to accept and face life’s difficulties rather than avoid them. My role is supporting you in envisioning and working towards a fulfilling life. I work to create a warm, collaborative, nonjudgmental environment where you can be comfortable expressing and challenging yourself.
I provide culturally-humble, LGBTQ+ and gender-affirming care to adolescents (14 and up) and adults (18-80+), and couples.
Problems like depression and anxiety can hold us back from living the life we want. Therapy can be challenging but the rewards are often worth the investment. Through therapy we can learn to change habits (thinking and behavioral) that no longer serve us and learn to accept and face life’s difficulties rather than avoid them. My role is supporting you in envisioning and working towards a fulfilling life. I work to create a warm, collaborative, nonjudgmental environment where you can be comfortable expressing and challenging yourself.
(240) 366-2339 View (240) 366-2339
Photo of Aunge (Andrea) Boyer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Aunge (Andrea) Boyer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCMHSP, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
One of my biggest struggles in life has been finding ways to show up authentically. As a Black, non-binary and queer person, finding spaces that validate core aspects of my identity have been challenging. It’s an honor to hold space for individuals who are struggling to find their voice and place in the world. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space where you feel accepted, respected, and understood. I enjoy working with individuals from marginalized and underserved communities (BIPOC, LGBTQ+). My practice is intersectional, collaborative, based in a social justice framework, and sex positive.
One of my biggest struggles in life has been finding ways to show up authentically. As a Black, non-binary and queer person, finding spaces that validate core aspects of my identity have been challenging. It’s an honor to hold space for individuals who are struggling to find their voice and place in the world. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space where you feel accepted, respected, and understood. I enjoy working with individuals from marginalized and underserved communities (BIPOC, LGBTQ+). My practice is intersectional, collaborative, based in a social justice framework, and sex positive.
(240) 488-3595 View (240) 488-3595
Photo of Lia Bostian, Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Lia Bostian
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850
I welcome transgender, genderqueer, and gender non-conforming clients.
I help individual adults with a wide range of emotional problems and decisions, with a special focus on the LGBT community. My goal is to enable people to resolve their issues with lasting results and to live more satisfying, healthier lives. Over the past 28 years, people have turned to me for help with depression, anxiety, loneliness, grief, low self-esteem, work stress, parenting, and relationship problems. I have also worked with people experiencing trauma and substance abuse.
I welcome transgender, genderqueer, and gender non-conforming clients.
I help individual adults with a wide range of emotional problems and decisions, with a special focus on the LGBT community. My goal is to enable people to resolve their issues with lasting results and to live more satisfying, healthier lives. Over the past 28 years, people have turned to me for help with depression, anxiety, loneliness, grief, low self-esteem, work stress, parenting, and relationship problems. I have also worked with people experiencing trauma and substance abuse.
(240) 821-5369 View (240) 821-5369
Photo of Dr. Jeanni Aubee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Dr. Jeanni Aubee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I embrace LGBTQ+ and BIPOC identities and address the impact of homophobia, racism, sexism, transphobia, patriarchy & more.
Teens (13+) and adults gain insight and skills to decrease or eliminate anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, grief, that make school, relationships, work and everyday life difficult. We'll explore the impact early life experiences, relationships have on identity, thought, behavior and mood. We'll replace or reframe thoughts and interpretations, learn positive behavioral skills, develop healthy relationships and learn mood regulation. We'll identify triggers, understand how past experiences affects and informs the present, improve ability to regulate, and uncover patterns/trauma that impact you and implement new behavior patterns.
I embrace LGBTQ+ and BIPOC identities and address the impact of homophobia, racism, sexism, transphobia, patriarchy & more.
Teens (13+) and adults gain insight and skills to decrease or eliminate anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, grief, that make school, relationships, work and everyday life difficult. We'll explore the impact early life experiences, relationships have on identity, thought, behavior and mood. We'll replace or reframe thoughts and interpretations, learn positive behavioral skills, develop healthy relationships and learn mood regulation. We'll identify triggers, understand how past experiences affects and informs the present, improve ability to regulate, and uncover patterns/trauma that impact you and implement new behavior patterns.
(301) 781-5497 View (301) 781-5497
Photo of Mirshelle Edwards, Counselor in Cumberland, MD
Mirshelle Edwards
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I embrace LGBTQ+, AAPI and BIPOC identities and address the impact of homophobia, racism, sexism, transphobia, patriarchy & more.
My clients are looking develop insight and gain skills to manage anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-worth, adulthood, ADHD, immigrant and cultural identity, mood disorders, experiences, school/work stress, relationships, socializing and difficult transitions. We'll explore the effects of relational dynamics, early life experiences, thought and behavior patterns, culture and identity, transitions and family of origin. We'll identify triggers, understand how the past affects and informs the present, improve ability to regulate, and uncover patterns/trauma that impact you and implement new cognitive and behavior patterns.
I embrace LGBTQ+, AAPI and BIPOC identities and address the impact of homophobia, racism, sexism, transphobia, patriarchy & more.
My clients are looking develop insight and gain skills to manage anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-worth, adulthood, ADHD, immigrant and cultural identity, mood disorders, experiences, school/work stress, relationships, socializing and difficult transitions. We'll explore the effects of relational dynamics, early life experiences, thought and behavior patterns, culture and identity, transitions and family of origin. We'll identify triggers, understand how the past affects and informs the present, improve ability to regulate, and uncover patterns/trauma that impact you and implement new cognitive and behavior patterns.
(240) 202-2667 View (240) 202-2667
Photo of Janely Rivas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Janely Rivas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
My background working with diverse populations including the Latinx and LGBTQIA+ communities has allowed me to see the importance in affirming one's individual identity.
Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been in therapy before, I’m glad you’re here! My hope is to create a safe, encouraging and oftentimes silly and sarcastic environment to partner with you in the next step of your story. I’m a licensed certified social worker - clinical and a psychotherapist. My time working as a psychotherapist in schools and the surrounding community has led me to become passionate in addressing and advocating for a person's needs and strengths. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults and families to address a wide variety of concerns including life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem.
My background working with diverse populations including the Latinx and LGBTQIA+ communities has allowed me to see the importance in affirming one's individual identity.
Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been in therapy before, I’m glad you’re here! My hope is to create a safe, encouraging and oftentimes silly and sarcastic environment to partner with you in the next step of your story. I’m a licensed certified social worker - clinical and a psychotherapist. My time working as a psychotherapist in schools and the surrounding community has led me to become passionate in addressing and advocating for a person's needs and strengths. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults and families to address a wide variety of concerns including life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem.
(240) 202-2675 View (240) 202-2675
Photo of Shantell Pitts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Shantell Pitts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in conducting individual, couples and group therapy with clients from diverse backgrounds including: military service members, seniors, young adults, members of the LGBTQ community, and individuals involved in the criminal justice system in the DMV area.
As a therapist, I aim to create an environment that feels both welcoming and safe to anyone who enters. I most often work with individuals struggling from anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, identity, and life transitions and strive to help individuals identify their strengths, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and mindfulness-based approaches, to support the therapeutic process. I believe in the importance of meeting someone where they are and I aim to empower clients by teaching skills that help them to manage obstacles that interfere with quality of life and wellbeing.
I have experience in conducting individual, couples and group therapy with clients from diverse backgrounds including: military service members, seniors, young adults, members of the LGBTQ community, and individuals involved in the criminal justice system in the DMV area.
As a therapist, I aim to create an environment that feels both welcoming and safe to anyone who enters. I most often work with individuals struggling from anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, identity, and life transitions and strive to help individuals identify their strengths, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and mindfulness-based approaches, to support the therapeutic process. I believe in the importance of meeting someone where they are and I aim to empower clients by teaching skills that help them to manage obstacles that interfere with quality of life and wellbeing.
(301) 450-8924 View (301) 450-8924
Photo of Safiyya Abdul Bari, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland, MD
Safiyya Abdul Bari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Relationship challenges, cultural and identity stressors, transitions, career stress, overwhelm, low self worth or often seek validation, concentration and procrastination, and trauma are my areas of expertise. We'll identify triggers; manage or resolve reactions related to PTSD, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression and more. We'll identify the psychological impact of past and current experiences and relationships on mood, behavior and thought patterns.I affirm BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent clients.
Relationship challenges, cultural and identity stressors, transitions, career stress, overwhelm, low self worth or often seek validation, concentration and procrastination, and trauma are my areas of expertise. We'll identify triggers; manage or resolve reactions related to PTSD, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression and more. We'll identify the psychological impact of past and current experiences and relationships on mood, behavior and thought patterns.I affirm BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent clients.
(410) 673-4873 View (410) 673-4873
Photo of Sarah Cardenas, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cumberland, MD
Sarah Cardenas
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I work with adult to improve self worth, address the impact of immigrant/expat experiences and identity, manage anxiety, depression, ADHD and PTSD, address negative experiences due to LGBTQ+ or BIPOC identity, regulate mood, address stress in relationships, manage transitions, resolve shame, process and resolve trauma. I also offer psychotherapy to manage anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, sexual difficulties, OCD and more. I provide 50-minute therapy sessions to allow clients to gain insight into the psychological impact of past and ongoing relationships, patterns and experiences and learn new skills.
I work with adult to improve self worth, address the impact of immigrant/expat experiences and identity, manage anxiety, depression, ADHD and PTSD, address negative experiences due to LGBTQ+ or BIPOC identity, regulate mood, address stress in relationships, manage transitions, resolve shame, process and resolve trauma. I also offer psychotherapy to manage anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, sexual difficulties, OCD and more. I provide 50-minute therapy sessions to allow clients to gain insight into the psychological impact of past and ongoing relationships, patterns and experiences and learn new skills.
(301) 701-2882 View (301) 701-2882
Photo of Ronald Love, Psychologist in Cumberland, MD
Ronald Love
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877  (Online Only)
Love is interested in working with youth and adults from diverse backgrounds and/or urban settings, as well as individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, or individuals who have experienced community-based trauma.
Dr. Ronald Love is a Licensed Psychologist in the State of Maryland. Dr. Love earned his Doctor of Psychology and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology - Chicago campus, a Master of Arts in Psychology in Education at the Teachers College, Columbia University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at Clark Atlanta University.
Love is interested in working with youth and adults from diverse backgrounds and/or urban settings, as well as individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, or individuals who have experienced community-based trauma.
Dr. Ronald Love is a Licensed Psychologist in the State of Maryland. Dr. Love earned his Doctor of Psychology and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology - Chicago campus, a Master of Arts in Psychology in Education at the Teachers College, Columbia University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at Clark Atlanta University.
(301) 381-5018 View (301) 381-5018

Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Cumberland

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Nearby Searches for Cumberland

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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.