LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Ann Arbor, MI

Photo of Lio Riley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
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 Ben Lemanski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
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 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.
(734) 336-7885 View (734) 336-7885
Photo of Joe Breakey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
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 Rachyl Lyons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Rachyl Lyons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
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.
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 Cass Carpenter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Cass Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
I am passionate about creating an open/healing space for clients to share and their own unique story. I have 2 years of practice history with clients of all ages and wide range of identities. A primary practice passion of mine is assisting LGBTQIA+ individuals explore gender and sexuality as it pertains to their own identity as well as processing the lived, social experience of being queer. My goal is to help all of my clients find moments to express and celebrate their own joy while also processing the diverse obstacles and emotions of their unique experience(s).
I am passionate about creating an open/healing space for clients to share and their own unique story. I have 2 years of practice history with clients of all ages and wide range of identities. A primary practice passion of mine is assisting LGBTQIA+ individuals explore gender and sexuality as it pertains to their own identity as well as processing the lived, social experience of being queer. My goal is to help all of my clients find moments to express and celebrate their own joy while also processing the diverse obstacles and emotions of their unique experience(s).
(734) 999-3626 View (734) 999-3626
Photo of Kristie Carpenter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
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 and 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 and depression, self esteem issues, and interpersonal relationship struggles.
(734) 985-2929 View (734) 985-2929
Photo of Al Wauldron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Al Wauldron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are seeking a therapist to support your navigation through difficult experiences, personal challenges, or life changes, we might make a great team. Let’s work together to make sense of your experiences and curate your path towards a fulfilling life. 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.
If you are seeking a therapist to support your navigation through difficult experiences, personal challenges, or life changes, we might make a great team. Let’s work together to make sense of your experiences and curate your path towards a fulfilling life. 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 Dr. Jovany Avendano, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
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, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ann Arbor, MI
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
Jasmin Ashakih, PLLC
Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
Living in a university community I have a long history of working with BIPOC and LGBT clients navigating social/familial challenges in midst of higher education/PHD pursuits.
I have unique perspective and experience working with immigrants and children of immigrants from Africa, the Middle East, Europe and Asia, drawing on my own journey as an immigrant.
Living in a university community I have a long history of working with BIPOC and LGBT clients navigating social/familial challenges in midst of higher education/PHD pursuits.
I have unique perspective and experience working with immigrants and children of immigrants from Africa, the Middle East, Europe and Asia, drawing on my own journey as an immigrant.
(734) 526-6309 View (734) 526-6309
Photo of Karin Ahbel-Rappe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
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
Photo of Susan Willacker-Brown, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Ann Arbor, MI
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 Sarah Bryan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ann Arbor, MI
Sarah Bryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
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 Freddie Wyatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Freddie Wyatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Freddie is a non-binary, queer therapist dedicated to upholding gender-affirming, sex-positive, and social justice values in their personal and professional lives.
Freddie Wyatt is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2013. Sometimes we all need somebody to genuinely meet us where we are at in life with radical acceptance and compassion for who we are and where we want to go from here. But searching for the right person to connect with can be a daunting prospect, especially if you or your loved ones have lived experiences enduring societal rejections and systematic oppression.
Freddie is a non-binary, queer therapist dedicated to upholding gender-affirming, sex-positive, and social justice values in their personal and professional lives.
Freddie Wyatt is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2013. Sometimes we all need somebody to genuinely meet us where we are at in life with radical acceptance and compassion for who we are and where we want to go from here. But searching for the right person to connect with can be a daunting prospect, especially if you or your loved ones have lived experiences enduring societal rejections and systematic oppression.
(734) 802-1588 View (734) 802-1588
Photo of Katy Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Katy Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
I work with individual adults, couples, and polycules 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, and polycules 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 Toni Hughes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Toni Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, MSSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I primarily work with anxiety disorders, OCD, ADHD, ASD, the LGBTQ+ community, relationship issues, self-esteem, and trauma.
Hello! I wanted to use this space to share a little about my approach to therapy to see if we'd be a good fit for each other. My approach revolves around you, the client. I believe that you are the expert of your story, your experiences, your struggles, and your goals for therapy. I will meet you where you are and provide warmth, acceptance, and empathy. I enjoy building modalities and interventions based on your needs and interests and finding what works best for you. Recognizing that as this all can be a challenging and hard thing to do, I want to create a safe and validating place for you so we can tackle what needs tackling.
I primarily work with anxiety disorders, OCD, ADHD, ASD, the LGBTQ+ community, relationship issues, self-esteem, and trauma.
Hello! I wanted to use this space to share a little about my approach to therapy to see if we'd be a good fit for each other. My approach revolves around you, the client. I believe that you are the expert of your story, your experiences, your struggles, and your goals for therapy. I will meet you where you are and provide warmth, acceptance, and empathy. I enjoy building modalities and interventions based on your needs and interests and finding what works best for you. Recognizing that as this all can be a challenging and hard thing to do, I want to create a safe and validating place for you so we can tackle what needs tackling.
(734) 530-3926 View (734) 530-3926
Photo of Nicholas Paron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Nicholas Paron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
I primarily work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and difficult life transitions, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community.
You’re here looking for a therapist because you’re suffering, doubting yourself, and feeling all alone. Or maybe you’re here because you’ve experienced trauma or loss and can’t seem to move past it. You’re also here because you want to change, to be your best self and overcome the obstacles life has thrown at you. Change is scary, but I’ve got your back. I can collaborate with you to create healthier coping strategies, better self-care, and more effective communication. Through compassion and respect, I want to help you thrive instead of just survive.
I primarily work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and difficult life transitions, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community.
You’re here looking for a therapist because you’re suffering, doubting yourself, and feeling all alone. Or maybe you’re here because you’ve experienced trauma or loss and can’t seem to move past it. You’re also here because you want to change, to be your best self and overcome the obstacles life has thrown at you. Change is scary, but I’ve got your back. I can collaborate with you to create healthier coping strategies, better self-care, and more effective communication. Through compassion and respect, I want to help you thrive instead of just survive.
(734) 600-9581 View (734) 600-9581
Photo of Kaci Girard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Kaci Girard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48108  (Online Only)
I’m a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
First and foremost, thank you for seeking out therapy. Choosing to be emotionally open with someone you don’t know can be extremely difficult. You might feel skeptical or anxious, like it’s a waste of time or I’ll judge you for what you tell me. You don’t know me yet, but please trust me when I say that neither of those are true. Regardless of your reason for seeing me, I am your advocate. I will stand with you and help you accomplish whatever it is you want to accomplish. Think of me like your well-informed sidekick.
I’m a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
First and foremost, thank you for seeking out therapy. Choosing to be emotionally open with someone you don’t know can be extremely difficult. You might feel skeptical or anxious, like it’s a waste of time or I’ll judge you for what you tell me. You don’t know me yet, but please trust me when I say that neither of those are true. Regardless of your reason for seeing me, I am your advocate. I will stand with you and help you accomplish whatever it is you want to accomplish. Think of me like your well-informed sidekick.
(734) 294-6091 View (734) 294-6091
Photo of Katy Rose Robeson | Somatic Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
Katy Rose Robeson | Somatic Therapy
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, 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, and trauma. I am also passionate about working with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent folks.
(734) 997-7274 View (734) 997-7274
Photo of Chidimma Ozor Commer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ann Arbor, MI
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

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.