LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Ann Arbor, MI

Photo of Joe Breakey, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joe Breakey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
If anxiety and/or depression are getting in the way of a good life, I am in business to help you get on a better track. Perhaps a relationship is faltering or has recently ended and you are looking for extra support. I have particular interest and training in the following areas: Issues involving Relationship troubles and trauma, sexual orientation and gender expression ( LGBTQ), Couples Counseling (EFT- Emotionally Focused Therapy), Mindfulness and Body/Emotion connections.
If anxiety and/or depression are getting in the way of a good life, I am in business to help you get on a better track. Perhaps a relationship is faltering or has recently ended and you are looking for extra support. I have particular interest and training in the following areas: Issues involving Relationship troubles and trauma, sexual orientation and gender expression ( LGBTQ), Couples Counseling (EFT- Emotionally Focused Therapy), Mindfulness and Body/Emotion connections.
(734) 681-3632 View (734) 681-3632
Photo of Ben Lemanski, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Lemanski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I am a queer, fat, neuro-divergent, Psychotherapist that specializes in working with queer individuals no matter where they fall on the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum. I have been working with queer folks for the past 6 years on issues surrounding access to health care, behavioral health, and advocacy. I also specialize in gender affirming care working with clients to access hormone therapy and procedures through advocating for their needs and letter writing. Another specialization is working with fat individuals on navigating our fatphobic/sizeist society, medical system, and internalized fatphobia. I am also available for LLMSW supervision.
I am a queer, fat, neuro-divergent, Psychotherapist that specializes in working with queer individuals no matter where they fall on the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum. I have been working with queer folks for the past 6 years on issues surrounding access to health care, behavioral health, and advocacy. I also specialize in gender affirming care working with clients to access hormone therapy and procedures through advocating for their needs and letter writing. Another specialization is working with fat individuals on navigating our fatphobic/sizeist society, medical system, and internalized fatphobia. I am also available for LLMSW supervision.
(734) 336-7885 View (734) 336-7885
Photo of Kristie Carpenter, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristie Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Accepting New Clients! A large part of therapy includes the relationship and rapport between a client and their therapist. I understand the importance of having an affirming therapist and I strive to be that therapist. I am passionate about working with a variety of diverse populations, with the majority including LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent adolescents and young adults. I also have experience working with anxiety, depression, self esteem issues, and interpersonal relationship struggles.
Accepting New Clients! A large part of therapy includes the relationship and rapport between a client and their therapist. I understand the importance of having an affirming therapist and I strive to be that therapist. I am passionate about working with a variety of diverse populations, with the majority including LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent adolescents and young adults. I also have experience working with anxiety, depression, self esteem issues, and interpersonal relationship struggles.
(734) 985-2929 View (734) 985-2929
Photo of Rachyl Lyons, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachyl Lyons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I specialize in working with members of the queer community.
As a queer person, I aim to serve LGBTQIA2S+ clients as much as possible. I also work with those outside the queer community, especially those struggling with anxiety, depression, eating concerns, big emotions, and a history of trauma; I work with BPD but not through a certified DBT program. I aim to highlight each client's individual strengths and existing skills to build off of. My desire is to create a space where you feel you can be open, and your successes are celebrated. My ideal client is someone motivated for weekly therapy, putting in a focused effort to learn to utilize coping skills, self-reflection, and behavior changes.
I specialize in working with members of the queer community.
As a queer person, I aim to serve LGBTQIA2S+ clients as much as possible. I also work with those outside the queer community, especially those struggling with anxiety, depression, eating concerns, big emotions, and a history of trauma; I work with BPD but not through a certified DBT program. I aim to highlight each client's individual strengths and existing skills to build off of. My desire is to create a space where you feel you can be open, and your successes are celebrated. My ideal client is someone motivated for weekly therapy, putting in a focused effort to learn to utilize coping skills, self-reflection, and behavior changes.
(734) 519-6535 View (734) 519-6535
Photo of Al Wauldron, LLMSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Al Wauldron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
Let’s work together to make sense of your experiences and curate your path towards a fulfilling life. If you're seeking someone to support you through life transitions, personal challenges, or self exploration, we might make a great team. As a therapist, I aim to create a deeply safe environment to support clients in their journeys towards change and healing; I prioritize meeting clients where they’re at and centering their strengths and experiences as core to the therapeutic process. I am a queer-affirming, trans-affirming, anti-racist, anti-ableist, intersectionality-minded therapist.
Let’s work together to make sense of your experiences and curate your path towards a fulfilling life. If you're seeking someone to support you through life transitions, personal challenges, or self exploration, we might make a great team. As a therapist, I aim to create a deeply safe environment to support clients in their journeys towards change and healing; I prioritize meeting clients where they’re at and centering their strengths and experiences as core to the therapeutic process. I am a queer-affirming, trans-affirming, anti-racist, anti-ableist, intersectionality-minded therapist.
(734) 822-9270 View (734) 822-9270
Photo of Lio Riley, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lio Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Note: current availability is limited to daytime appointments - Welcome! I’m Lio, a therapist at the Mala Child & Family Institute. I’m dedicated to empowering teens and young adults as they navigate LGBTQ+ identity, disability, Autism (including PDA and high-masking profiles), ADHD, and anxiety. As a neurodivergent and queer adult, I know that these experiences are often misunderstood and encounter a range of barriers. I also understand the impact that a safe environment can have on the development of self-worth, self-advocacy, and self-compassion.
Note: current availability is limited to daytime appointments - Welcome! I’m Lio, a therapist at the Mala Child & Family Institute. I’m dedicated to empowering teens and young adults as they navigate LGBTQ+ identity, disability, Autism (including PDA and high-masking profiles), ADHD, and anxiety. As a neurodivergent and queer adult, I know that these experiences are often misunderstood and encounter a range of barriers. I also understand the impact that a safe environment can have on the development of self-worth, self-advocacy, and self-compassion.
(734) 441-2388 View (734) 441-2388
Photo of Cass Carpenter, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cass Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
I am a trans and queer therapist who is passionate about creating an open, healing space for clients to share their own unique story, learn more about their minds, and face life's challenges with new confidence. I have 3 years of practice history with a wide range of ages, identities, and diagnoses. I work with clients presenting with any combination of anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder(s), ADHD, autism, and more. Much of my work aims to create space and safety for my LGBTQIA+ clients explore gender and sexuality as it pertains to their own identity as well as processing the lived and social experience of queerness.
I am a trans and queer therapist who is passionate about creating an open, healing space for clients to share their own unique story, learn more about their minds, and face life's challenges with new confidence. I have 3 years of practice history with a wide range of ages, identities, and diagnoses. I work with clients presenting with any combination of anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder(s), ADHD, autism, and more. Much of my work aims to create space and safety for my LGBTQIA+ clients explore gender and sexuality as it pertains to their own identity as well as processing the lived and social experience of queerness.
(734) 999-3626 View (734) 999-3626
Photo of Dr. Jovany Avendano, PsyD, CCATP, CTMH, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Jovany Avendano
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PsyD, CCATP, CTMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
My experiences as a queer, POC, latino, cis-male have shaped my personal and professional values and philosophies, which come with me into every relationship.
It's no surprise life can feel overwhelming at times, making it harder to do even the simplest of things. And yet you're here! We manage to get through it, either by luck, grit, will power, or sheer determination. But sometimes, the pressures from society, culture, expectations...etc can really bog us down. We can find ourselves feeling stuck, thinking, "why is nothing working?" or "no one really gets it." We all deserve peace, safety, and belonging, and sometimes, we might need a helping hand to get us "unstuck." Let's work together to explore what's keeping us stuck, build up our resources, and create the life you'll be proud of.
My experiences as a queer, POC, latino, cis-male have shaped my personal and professional values and philosophies, which come with me into every relationship.
It's no surprise life can feel overwhelming at times, making it harder to do even the simplest of things. And yet you're here! We manage to get through it, either by luck, grit, will power, or sheer determination. But sometimes, the pressures from society, culture, expectations...etc can really bog us down. We can find ourselves feeling stuck, thinking, "why is nothing working?" or "no one really gets it." We all deserve peace, safety, and belonging, and sometimes, we might need a helping hand to get us "unstuck." Let's work together to explore what's keeping us stuck, build up our resources, and create the life you'll be proud of.
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Photo of Dr. Quillian D Murphy, PhD,  MS, MSEd, DLLP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Quillian D Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, MSEd, DLLP, LPC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I am glad you are here. As a mental health professional, I provide support and intervention for a variety of psychological, career, academic, and relational experiences across the lifespan to diverse persons. This includes services to individuals, various partner structures, families, and groups. My work centers on decolonization and destigmatization of mental health services with emphasis on culturally-affirming care. As such, I identify as a LGBTQIA+, Kink, Disability, and Gender Affirming provider. The experiences of marginalized, minoritized, and disenfranchised communities remain at the forefront of my clinical work.
Welcome! I am glad you are here. As a mental health professional, I provide support and intervention for a variety of psychological, career, academic, and relational experiences across the lifespan to diverse persons. This includes services to individuals, various partner structures, families, and groups. My work centers on decolonization and destigmatization of mental health services with emphasis on culturally-affirming care. As such, I identify as a LGBTQIA+, Kink, Disability, and Gender Affirming provider. The experiences of marginalized, minoritized, and disenfranchised communities remain at the forefront of my clinical work.
(734) 875-9115 View (734) 875-9115
Photo of Jimmy Dagostino, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Jimmy Dagostino
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48109  (Online Only)
My main specialty is the LGBTQ+ community, which I am a member of. I also work with depression, anxiety, trauma, and adults with ADHD or Autism. I have particular experience with non-binary (I myself am non-binary) and transgender individuals, childhood trauma, and addiction. Whoever you are, whatever you're dealing with, my goal and my passion is to help people find their inner strength and get to know themselves. I want to help you trust yourself, rely on yourself, and to help you learn how to not just overcome your challenges but go beyond that and become the best version of yourself you can be because you deserve that.
My main specialty is the LGBTQ+ community, which I am a member of. I also work with depression, anxiety, trauma, and adults with ADHD or Autism. I have particular experience with non-binary (I myself am non-binary) and transgender individuals, childhood trauma, and addiction. Whoever you are, whatever you're dealing with, my goal and my passion is to help people find their inner strength and get to know themselves. I want to help you trust yourself, rely on yourself, and to help you learn how to not just overcome your challenges but go beyond that and become the best version of yourself you can be because you deserve that.
(248) 916-1841 View (248) 916-1841
Photo of Katy Clark, LLMSW, RN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katy Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108  (Online Only)
I work with individual adults, couples, polycules, friends & families (18+) on issues related to developmental trauma, attachment, relationship problems, and emotion regulation. These issues might show up as difficulty connecting with others, frequent interpersonal conflict, mood swings, substance use or self harm behavior, or fears of abandonment. We will work together to create new understanding around these problems and new experiences connecting with others in a meaningful way. I am dedicated to creating celebratory, non-judgmental spaces for queer and trans folks and people who practice polyamory or other ethical non-monogamy.
I work with individual adults, couples, polycules, friends & families (18+) on issues related to developmental trauma, attachment, relationship problems, and emotion regulation. These issues might show up as difficulty connecting with others, frequent interpersonal conflict, mood swings, substance use or self harm behavior, or fears of abandonment. We will work together to create new understanding around these problems and new experiences connecting with others in a meaningful way. I am dedicated to creating celebratory, non-judgmental spaces for queer and trans folks and people who practice polyamory or other ethical non-monogamy.
(734) 294-6147 View (734) 294-6147
Photo of Dana Demchak, MS, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Dana Demchak
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108  (Online Only)
Have you had trauma or relationships in your life that you are struggling to move past? Are you living with constant anxiety, stress, and/or depression? Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community looking for a safe, understanding environment to discuss freely who you are? Whatever brings you to therapy, I would be honored to help you find a way forward. We can collaborate to understand what is not working for you, how it came to be, and how we can find a path through together.
Have you had trauma or relationships in your life that you are struggling to move past? Are you living with constant anxiety, stress, and/or depression? Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community looking for a safe, understanding environment to discuss freely who you are? Whatever brings you to therapy, I would be honored to help you find a way forward. We can collaborate to understand what is not working for you, how it came to be, and how we can find a path through together.
(734) 206-7130 View (734) 206-7130
Photo of Sarah Bryan, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Bryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone should feel equally welcome in therapy, so no matter what you bring, I will meet you without judgment, and we will find solutions together. I believe that people heal through being fully heard and understood, and solving problems collaboratively. I work with a wide variety of issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues (both monogamous and non-monogamous), ADHD, substance addiction, sexual identity and gender identity concerns, and others. I take an anti-racist, intersectional feminist, LGBTQIA-affirming, body-positive, kink-aware approach to therapy.
I believe that everyone should feel equally welcome in therapy, so no matter what you bring, I will meet you without judgment, and we will find solutions together. I believe that people heal through being fully heard and understood, and solving problems collaboratively. I work with a wide variety of issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues (both monogamous and non-monogamous), ADHD, substance addiction, sexual identity and gender identity concerns, and others. I take an anti-racist, intersectional feminist, LGBTQIA-affirming, body-positive, kink-aware approach to therapy.
(734) 530-4508 View (734) 530-4508
Photo of Sarah Rollins - Embodied Wellness, PLLC | Immediate Openings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Embodied Wellness, PLLC | Immediate Openings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108  (Online Only)
We are LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC friendly and have immediate openings.
You feel exhausted and stuck. You are disconnected from yourself and others. You’re sick of being on autopilot. You are tired of being brave. You find yourself in the same old patterns. You want to change but you don't know how. You can't help but replay the same painful memories, worries, and negative self-talk in your mind. Maybe you've tried self-care practices, meditation, or yoga and they helped, but you can't shake the feeling that there's more to explore on your healing path. We are here for folks with the desire to look inward and make the changes in their lives that they have been craving.
We are LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC friendly and have immediate openings.
You feel exhausted and stuck. You are disconnected from yourself and others. You’re sick of being on autopilot. You are tired of being brave. You find yourself in the same old patterns. You want to change but you don't know how. You can't help but replay the same painful memories, worries, and negative self-talk in your mind. Maybe you've tried self-care practices, meditation, or yoga and they helped, but you can't shake the feeling that there's more to explore on your healing path. We are here for folks with the desire to look inward and make the changes in their lives that they have been craving.
(248) 487-8898 View (248) 487-8898
Photo of Chidimma Ozor Commer, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chidimma Ozor Commer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Dr Chidimma Ozor Commer is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2021. Dr Ozor Commer’s specialty is treating mental health concerns through individual therapy in a holistic manner, emphasizing trauma work utilizing various options of evidence-based psychotherapy. In addition, Dr Ozor Commer hopes to come alongside Black women, Black folks, members of the LGBTQ+ community, transracially adopted and displaced people, and those who have experienced spiritual abuse in their healing journeys.
Dr Chidimma Ozor Commer is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2021. Dr Ozor Commer’s specialty is treating mental health concerns through individual therapy in a holistic manner, emphasizing trauma work utilizing various options of evidence-based psychotherapy. In addition, Dr Ozor Commer hopes to come alongside Black women, Black folks, members of the LGBTQ+ community, transracially adopted and displaced people, and those who have experienced spiritual abuse in their healing journeys.
(734) 304-7090 View (734) 304-7090
Photo of Katy Rose Robeson - Immediate Openings, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katy Rose Robeson - Immediate Openings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
You haven’t felt like yourself in a long time. Despite many attempts, you struggle to show up for your responsibilities, loved ones, and yourself. You have dreams and aspirations, but somehow taking those first steps feels insurmountable. You feel like you’re spending all your energy just to make it through the day, aimlessly spinning your wheels. You are ready for additional support to build a more robust and fulfilling life. My background lends itself well to teens and adults facing the negative impacts of ADHD, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am also passionate about working with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent folks.
You haven’t felt like yourself in a long time. Despite many attempts, you struggle to show up for your responsibilities, loved ones, and yourself. You have dreams and aspirations, but somehow taking those first steps feels insurmountable. You feel like you’re spending all your energy just to make it through the day, aimlessly spinning your wheels. You are ready for additional support to build a more robust and fulfilling life. My background lends itself well to teens and adults facing the negative impacts of ADHD, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am also passionate about working with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent folks.
(734) 997-7274 View (734) 997-7274
Photo of Susan Willacker-Brown, MA, TLLP, NCSP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Susan Willacker-Brown
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP, NCSP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
I am particularly interested in supporting families working to co-parent during/after parental separation, and LGBTQ+ parents/families.
I believe that parents/caregivers are not only their child's first teachers, but often their best therapists. I seek to support parents (biological, adoptive, step, foster) and families of all types as they navigate the often-challenging work of nurturing and supporting the children in their care. I believe in helping parents to "secure their own oxygen masks before assisting others," by providing a safe space for parents to explore their own identities, values, challenges and experiences as caregivers. I am also experienced at providing practical guidance to parents facing challenging moments with their children.
I am particularly interested in supporting families working to co-parent during/after parental separation, and LGBTQ+ parents/families.
I believe that parents/caregivers are not only their child's first teachers, but often their best therapists. I seek to support parents (biological, adoptive, step, foster) and families of all types as they navigate the often-challenging work of nurturing and supporting the children in their care. I believe in helping parents to "secure their own oxygen masks before assisting others," by providing a safe space for parents to explore their own identities, values, challenges and experiences as caregivers. I am also experienced at providing practical guidance to parents facing challenging moments with their children.
(734) 508-5021 View (734) 508-5021
Photo of Alexandria Conger, LLPC, Counselor
Alexandria Conger
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Hi, I'm Alex! I'm a limited license professional counselor (LLPC) with experience working with teens, adults, and couples in individual and group counseling settings. I am passionate about reflecting on how the past influences your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors in the present, and how to create goals to realistically address struggles you may be experiencing. I also love working with LGBTQ+ clients or clients exploring their identity. My job as a therapist is to instill hope in yourself and confidence in your strengths as a human being, while also providing some new perspectives if needed.
Hi, I'm Alex! I'm a limited license professional counselor (LLPC) with experience working with teens, adults, and couples in individual and group counseling settings. I am passionate about reflecting on how the past influences your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors in the present, and how to create goals to realistically address struggles you may be experiencing. I also love working with LGBTQ+ clients or clients exploring their identity. My job as a therapist is to instill hope in yourself and confidence in your strengths as a human being, while also providing some new perspectives if needed.
(734) 212-1320 x726 View (734) 212-1320 x726
Photo of Jennifer Blough - Deepwater Counseling, LPC, CAADC, LMSW, Counselor
Deepwater Counseling
Counselor, LPC, CAADC, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Deepwater Counseling therapists are nonjudgmental, culturally sensitive, and LGBTQ+ friendly.
Do you feel different, disconnected, or damaged? Are you tired of trying to fit into a nice little box or live up to society's expectations of who you're "supposed" to be? Let us help you find your own voice, discover your strengths, accept your true self, and live an authentic life! Through compassionate counseling, we'll help you learn how to express your wants and needs, develop healthy coping skills, practice self-care, improve your relationships, and achieve your goals.
Deepwater Counseling therapists are nonjudgmental, culturally sensitive, and LGBTQ+ friendly.
Do you feel different, disconnected, or damaged? Are you tired of trying to fit into a nice little box or live up to society's expectations of who you're "supposed" to be? Let us help you find your own voice, discover your strengths, accept your true self, and live an authentic life! Through compassionate counseling, we'll help you learn how to express your wants and needs, develop healthy coping skills, practice self-care, improve your relationships, and achieve your goals.
(734) 707-9491 x700 View (734) 707-9491 x700
Photo of Karin Ahbel-Rappe, PhD, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karin Ahbel-Rappe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
individual therapy--marriage/couples therapy --- professors, college and graduate students ---sexual abuse --- gay/ lesbian/ queer community -- family of origin issues -- mood problems--personality patterns/dysfunctions .
It's hard being a person. We all struggle to some extent in fundamental areas of human life-- relationships, identity, work, destructive behaviors, the meaning of life itself. Satisfying marriage/committed relationships are a specific challenge faced by many. I work in both individual and couples therapy. There are many ways to approach human problems, including: how family of origin influences personality; one's relationship to one's thoughts and feelings; self-defeating beliefs, both conscious and unconscious; self-defeating behavior. I value thoughtfulness and compassion, working together, and recognizing your goals and ideas.
individual therapy--marriage/couples therapy --- professors, college and graduate students ---sexual abuse --- gay/ lesbian/ queer community -- family of origin issues -- mood problems--personality patterns/dysfunctions .
It's hard being a person. We all struggle to some extent in fundamental areas of human life-- relationships, identity, work, destructive behaviors, the meaning of life itself. Satisfying marriage/committed relationships are a specific challenge faced by many. I work in both individual and couples therapy. There are many ways to approach human problems, including: how family of origin influences personality; one's relationship to one's thoughts and feelings; self-defeating beliefs, both conscious and unconscious; self-defeating behavior. I value thoughtfulness and compassion, working together, and recognizing your goals and ideas.
(734) 430-0681 View (734) 430-0681
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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.