Photo of JoAnna Randisi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
JoAnna Randisi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
When working with the LGBTQ+ community, I strive to provide affirmative therapy for individuals to explore their identities and navigate the unique challenges they may face.
As a Licensed Master Social Worker, I am passionate about creating a warm and safe environment without judgment for clients to express themselves and share their stories. I offer empathy and empowerment to cultivate positive change and promote overall emotional and mental wellness. Whether you are a child, a teenager, or an adult struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, and/or family dynamics, we will work together toward establishing your goals and equipping you with coping skills for your daily life. No matter what you are coming to therapy for, know that you are not alone.
When working with the LGBTQ+ community, I strive to provide affirmative therapy for individuals to explore their identities and navigate the unique challenges they may face.
As a Licensed Master Social Worker, I am passionate about creating a warm and safe environment without judgment for clients to express themselves and share their stories. I offer empathy and empowerment to cultivate positive change and promote overall emotional and mental wellness. Whether you are a child, a teenager, or an adult struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, and/or family dynamics, we will work together toward establishing your goals and equipping you with coping skills for your daily life. No matter what you are coming to therapy for, know that you are not alone.
(631) 801-0702 View (631) 801-0702
Photo of Javier Gomez Martinez, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Javier Gomez Martinez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11385  (Online Only)
Collaboratively with my clients I work to help each one craft goals and an individualized plan to achieve them. I can help you work through a diverse set of issues including feelings of anxiety and depression, ADHD, and LGBTQ+ concerns. I draw on different modalities such as contemplative practices and mindfulness, existential therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other approaches. This integrative approach works to craft a client centered therapeutic plan.
Collaboratively with my clients I work to help each one craft goals and an individualized plan to achieve them. I can help you work through a diverse set of issues including feelings of anxiety and depression, ADHD, and LGBTQ+ concerns. I draw on different modalities such as contemplative practices and mindfulness, existential therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other approaches. This integrative approach works to craft a client centered therapeutic plan.
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Photo of Frank Rupp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Frank Rupp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I practice from a judgment-free, sex-positive, queer-aligned perspective that encourages clients to view themselves holistically.
Many individuals go through periods of their life where they are searching for a deeper, more meaningful understanding of who they are as a person. I enjoy working with clients who are navigating this phase of life as it can be so rewarding to see the transformational changes that my clients make. I invite you to explore the meaning and correlation between topics like anxiety, communication, family, and work to your relationship with substance use, grief, sex, identity, trauma, and/or new medical diagnoses.
I practice from a judgment-free, sex-positive, queer-aligned perspective that encourages clients to view themselves holistically.
Many individuals go through periods of their life where they are searching for a deeper, more meaningful understanding of who they are as a person. I enjoy working with clients who are navigating this phase of life as it can be so rewarding to see the transformational changes that my clients make. I invite you to explore the meaning and correlation between topics like anxiety, communication, family, and work to your relationship with substance use, grief, sex, identity, trauma, and/or new medical diagnoses.
(332) 529-7685 View (332) 529-7685
Photo of Dan Clavin, Counselor in New York
Dan Clavin
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with gay and queer populations on a range of experiences from general life transitions to grief and death, anxiety and low mood, self-esteem and self-concept, and sex and relationships.
Finding the right therapist is often the hardest part of therapy. I believe that life is about relationships and that mental health is relational health, so I aim to create a dynamic and expansive environment where you can show up as your most authentic self as we explore the contexts, cultures, and intersections that shape your life. Together we will explore your struggles, successes, hopes, and fears with curiosity, compassion, and courage.
I specialize in working with gay and queer populations on a range of experiences from general life transitions to grief and death, anxiety and low mood, self-esteem and self-concept, and sex and relationships.
Finding the right therapist is often the hardest part of therapy. I believe that life is about relationships and that mental health is relational health, so I aim to create a dynamic and expansive environment where you can show up as your most authentic self as we explore the contexts, cultures, and intersections that shape your life. Together we will explore your struggles, successes, hopes, and fears with curiosity, compassion, and courage.
(646) 722-0725 View (646) 722-0725
Photo of Marcelo Abramovich Gay Men's Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Marcelo Abramovich Gay Men's Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
When facing life's difficult challenges, it is good to know that there are places that you can turn to for help and guidance. However, finding a gay therapist can be anxiety producing because when people decide they would benefit from seeing a therapist, they are often experiencing significant upset in their lives. This is usually not the ideal moment to be dealing with the stress involved in finding someone with whom it feels safe and right to be vulnerable.
When facing life's difficult challenges, it is good to know that there are places that you can turn to for help and guidance. However, finding a gay therapist can be anxiety producing because when people decide they would benefit from seeing a therapist, they are often experiencing significant upset in their lives. This is usually not the ideal moment to be dealing with the stress involved in finding someone with whom it feels safe and right to be vulnerable.
(646) 506-4362 View (646) 506-4362
Photo of Taoru Huang in New York
Taoru Huang
MHC-LP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
As an Asian queer therapist, I recognize the limitations of contemporary psychotherapy due to its Eurocentric, heteronormative, and pathological foundations.
In a city where millions of people pretend to be someone they are not, an authentic self might be the most luxurious thing for one to own and celebrate. However, I believe that we can still make it without having to fake it. I am here to hold space for you to express, explore, and embrace yourself. By providing a judgement-free, gender-expansive, culturally-responsive, and trauma-informed environment, I hope to help you transform moments of challenge into opportunities for empowerment.
As an Asian queer therapist, I recognize the limitations of contemporary psychotherapy due to its Eurocentric, heteronormative, and pathological foundations.
In a city where millions of people pretend to be someone they are not, an authentic self might be the most luxurious thing for one to own and celebrate. However, I believe that we can still make it without having to fake it. I am here to hold space for you to express, explore, and embrace yourself. By providing a judgement-free, gender-expansive, culturally-responsive, and trauma-informed environment, I hope to help you transform moments of challenge into opportunities for empowerment.
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Photo of Mark Cutolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Mark Cutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bronx, NY 10463  (Online Only)
Life is challenging, and sometimes we need extra support to help cope with life's difficulties. Whether you're looking for someone to talk about life's big questions (Who am I? Why am I here? What ought I to do? What meaning can be found in the universe?) or to feel relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, we can work together to help you meet your therapy goals. Since entering the social work field, I’ve worked with diverse populations in community mental health clinics, nonprofits, research centers, colleges, and hospitals, and have particular experience working with LGBTQ people and college-age students.
Life is challenging, and sometimes we need extra support to help cope with life's difficulties. Whether you're looking for someone to talk about life's big questions (Who am I? Why am I here? What ought I to do? What meaning can be found in the universe?) or to feel relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, we can work together to help you meet your therapy goals. Since entering the social work field, I’ve worked with diverse populations in community mental health clinics, nonprofits, research centers, colleges, and hospitals, and have particular experience working with LGBTQ people and college-age students.
(718) 865-3703 View (718) 865-3703
Photo of Adrian Rodriguez-Targa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Adrian Rodriguez-Targa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I have also experienced challenges in finding my place.
In the eyes of others, you present as confident, successful & outgoing, but inside, you struggle with anxiety and feelings of inadequacy. You often feel like your friends and peers seem to have it figured out, but you don't. Maintaining relationships, both romantic and platonic has been a challenge. Understanding your own needs and wants can feel trivial. You're feeling isolated, despite being surrounded. You want to feel more secure and balanced.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I have also experienced challenges in finding my place.
In the eyes of others, you present as confident, successful & outgoing, but inside, you struggle with anxiety and feelings of inadequacy. You often feel like your friends and peers seem to have it figured out, but you don't. Maintaining relationships, both romantic and platonic has been a challenge. Understanding your own needs and wants can feel trivial. You're feeling isolated, despite being surrounded. You want to feel more secure and balanced.
(203) 293-8859 View (203) 293-8859
Photo of Jingfei Zuo, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Jingfei Zuo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that Identities and relationships are keys in life. I value my clients' culture experience, and I care about how different identities and relationships can shape, limit, or empower oneself. In the past, I have worked with issues such as family dynamics, ADHD, trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, and so on. I also did 2 years of volunteer jobs in Chinese NGOs to serve the LGBTQ+ community regarding topics such as minority stress, internalized homophobia, intimate relationships, family relationships, gender dysphoria, coming out, and so on - I am willing to discuss these topics with you in the counseling sessions.
I believe that Identities and relationships are keys in life. I value my clients' culture experience, and I care about how different identities and relationships can shape, limit, or empower oneself. In the past, I have worked with issues such as family dynamics, ADHD, trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, and so on. I also did 2 years of volunteer jobs in Chinese NGOs to serve the LGBTQ+ community regarding topics such as minority stress, internalized homophobia, intimate relationships, family relationships, gender dysphoria, coming out, and so on - I am willing to discuss these topics with you in the counseling sessions.
(929) 463-9522 View (929) 463-9522
Photo of Julie Lichtstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Julie Lichtstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I have advanced training in psychotherapy/psychoanalysis, and in substance abuse/addictions, with particular experience with the LGBTQIA+ communities, young adults, teens, and with parents around the challenges of raising healthy, self-actualizing children.
Psychotherapy . . . a dynamic, interactive journey. I offer a safe, caring, professional environment in which we co-create a relationship essential for your healing and growth to occur naturally. With you, I undertake the opportunity to cultivate a supportive and trusting relationship. In my 30+ years as a therapist, I have come to know that it is the genuine connection between us that paves the way to successful, fulfilling therapy. I will help you to learn more about yourself, to understand why you do what you do and to uncover, strengthen and integrate the many aspects that make you authentically you.
I have advanced training in psychotherapy/psychoanalysis, and in substance abuse/addictions, with particular experience with the LGBTQIA+ communities, young adults, teens, and with parents around the challenges of raising healthy, self-actualizing children.
Psychotherapy . . . a dynamic, interactive journey. I offer a safe, caring, professional environment in which we co-create a relationship essential for your healing and growth to occur naturally. With you, I undertake the opportunity to cultivate a supportive and trusting relationship. In my 30+ years as a therapist, I have come to know that it is the genuine connection between us that paves the way to successful, fulfilling therapy. I will help you to learn more about yourself, to understand why you do what you do and to uncover, strengthen and integrate the many aspects that make you authentically you.
(646) 490-0575 View (646) 490-0575
Photo of Zero X (Aka Charlie) in New York
Zero X (Aka Charlie)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10007  (Online Only)
I'm a trans, queer, Mexican-American therapist who works from an attuned, responsive, and relationship oriented approach. As all of us have a tendency to get lost in a narrative or storyline, I invite clients to slow down with me and get intimate with their direct experience—the raging emotions in the body, the coming and going of thoughts, the feeling of shaky vulnerability, the rage, the loneliness—honoring it all and creating a safe holding space for these lost emotions, perhaps for the first time ever. In addition to psychotherapy, I offer end-of-life support, and coaching.
I'm a trans, queer, Mexican-American therapist who works from an attuned, responsive, and relationship oriented approach. As all of us have a tendency to get lost in a narrative or storyline, I invite clients to slow down with me and get intimate with their direct experience—the raging emotions in the body, the coming and going of thoughts, the feeling of shaky vulnerability, the rage, the loneliness—honoring it all and creating a safe holding space for these lost emotions, perhaps for the first time ever. In addition to psychotherapy, I offer end-of-life support, and coaching.
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Photo of Josh Boscarino, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Josh Boscarino
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Attending therapy can be crucial to heIping us feel unstuck. I specialize in working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and interpersonal conflict. I work with individuals and couples. I bring a unique perspective from my background in acting and corporate accounting. I understand the pressures and burnout that come with high-stress jobs. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am especially passionate about serving LGBTQIA+ clients. I utilize an integrative approach drawing from person-centered, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), and mindfulness techniques.
Attending therapy can be crucial to heIping us feel unstuck. I specialize in working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and interpersonal conflict. I work with individuals and couples. I bring a unique perspective from my background in acting and corporate accounting. I understand the pressures and burnout that come with high-stress jobs. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am especially passionate about serving LGBTQIA+ clients. I utilize an integrative approach drawing from person-centered, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), and mindfulness techniques.
(646) 604-2708 View (646) 604-2708
Photo of Amos Wolff, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York
Amos Wolff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I utilize affirming frameworks that: embrace LGBTQ+ identity and sex and kink positivity in monogamous or alternative relationship structures, manage negative consequences associated with drug use through a Harm Reduction paradigm, and help heal past trauma through grounding and mindfulness practices.
Guided introspection leading to actionable connections is a tonic in an increasingly isolating, and volatile world. Whether this is your first time in therapy or another chapter on your quest for fulfillment in relationship with yourself and others, I am dedicated to meeting you where you are. Together we will bear witness to joys and challenges of being a human in our modern society, and celebrate the richness of humanity. As a trained couples and family therapist, I utilize a variety of theories integrating my past experience in both the performing arts and as a yoga instructor to provide a creative, holistic experience.
I utilize affirming frameworks that: embrace LGBTQ+ identity and sex and kink positivity in monogamous or alternative relationship structures, manage negative consequences associated with drug use through a Harm Reduction paradigm, and help heal past trauma through grounding and mindfulness practices.
Guided introspection leading to actionable connections is a tonic in an increasingly isolating, and volatile world. Whether this is your first time in therapy or another chapter on your quest for fulfillment in relationship with yourself and others, I am dedicated to meeting you where you are. Together we will bear witness to joys and challenges of being a human in our modern society, and celebrate the richness of humanity. As a trained couples and family therapist, I utilize a variety of theories integrating my past experience in both the performing arts and as a yoga instructor to provide a creative, holistic experience.
(917) 708-8559 View (917) 708-8559
Photo of Hanson Qin in New York
Hanson Qin
MEd, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
As an Asian-American gay man who grew up in the US South, I knew from a young age that I lived in a world that did not offer me freedom to author my narrative. Thus, I am passionate about building critical consciousness, self-awareness, and self-confidence to counteract oppression and live in the world with empowerment and authenticity. I am privileged and honored to use my experience to heal any client who has ever felt marginalized, outcasted, or misunderstood simply for "not fitting into boxes." If you are ready to live for yourself rather than for the limiting expectations of society, then I am looking forward to collaborating.
As an Asian-American gay man who grew up in the US South, I knew from a young age that I lived in a world that did not offer me freedom to author my narrative. Thus, I am passionate about building critical consciousness, self-awareness, and self-confidence to counteract oppression and live in the world with empowerment and authenticity. I am privileged and honored to use my experience to heal any client who has ever felt marginalized, outcasted, or misunderstood simply for "not fitting into boxes." If you are ready to live for yourself rather than for the limiting expectations of society, then I am looking forward to collaborating.
(631) 735-6646 View (631) 735-6646
Photo of Gabe Lopez in New York
Gabe Lopez
LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
Inclusivity, antiracism, and LGBTQ+ competency are vital to my work.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are you confused about your gender, sexuality, or relationship with sex? Are you struggling to stop using substances that are causing life to feel out of control, but it feels like too much to take on alone? Finding a therapist to help and support you is the right place to start. If you thought, "Oh, that's me." when reading any of these questions, you've come to the right place. As you begin to talk about what you're going through in a safe and judgement free space, you will soon realize that healing is possible. I am here to join you in the chaos and help make sense of it all.
Inclusivity, antiracism, and LGBTQ+ competency are vital to my work.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are you confused about your gender, sexuality, or relationship with sex? Are you struggling to stop using substances that are causing life to feel out of control, but it feels like too much to take on alone? Finding a therapist to help and support you is the right place to start. If you thought, "Oh, that's me." when reading any of these questions, you've come to the right place. As you begin to talk about what you're going through in a safe and judgement free space, you will soon realize that healing is possible. I am here to join you in the chaos and help make sense of it all.
(347) 970-8331 View (347) 970-8331
Photo of Justin Yong, Counselor in New York
Justin Yong
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
My approach to treatment is integrative with an orientation to LGBTQ+ Affirmative and Multicultural Counseling.
Do you find yourself feeling like a cog in a machine, stuck in a joyless career? Do you feel like you’re moving through life on autopilot, unable to take meaningful action? Are you looking to make personal and professional changes? My goal is to empower you to be more present for the moments and people that truly matter to you. Together we’ll innovate and reimagine new ways of thinking so that you are more present and aligned with what means most to you. Let's take you off autopilot and put you back in the driver's seat.
My approach to treatment is integrative with an orientation to LGBTQ+ Affirmative and Multicultural Counseling.
Do you find yourself feeling like a cog in a machine, stuck in a joyless career? Do you feel like you’re moving through life on autopilot, unable to take meaningful action? Are you looking to make personal and professional changes? My goal is to empower you to be more present for the moments and people that truly matter to you. Together we’ll innovate and reimagine new ways of thinking so that you are more present and aligned with what means most to you. Let's take you off autopilot and put you back in the driver's seat.
(646) 980-3952 View (646) 980-3952
Photo of David Rust, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
David Rust
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CCM
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
I also have special interests in LGBTQ+ related issues, health care professionals and coaching.
My name is David, and I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified case manager with 14 years of experience in the medical and mental health field. I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University, specializing in healthcare, and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University at Albany, where I graduated with high honors from the School of Social Welfare. Throughout my career, I have devoted myself to helping clients overcome life's struggles in the healthcare and mental health industry. I am licensed in NY, FL and NJ.
I also have special interests in LGBTQ+ related issues, health care professionals and coaching.
My name is David, and I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified case manager with 14 years of experience in the medical and mental health field. I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University, specializing in healthcare, and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University at Albany, where I graduated with high honors from the School of Social Welfare. Throughout my career, I have devoted myself to helping clients overcome life's struggles in the healthcare and mental health industry. I am licensed in NY, FL and NJ.
(929) 262-6247 View (929) 262-6247
Photo of Lloyd Fider, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Lloyd Fider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10120  (Online Only)
I work a lot with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients.
As they say, the only thing permanent in this world is change. Change, like people, comes in different shapes and sizes. It could be as simple as changing clothes, to more complex ones like a break up, death, or coming out. My goal is to help you manage and deal with changes in your life. By providing you with a safe and comfortable environment and my use of various therapeutic techniques, my hope is that you will feel supported, heard, understood, and obtain the necessary coping skills to help you through this journey called life.
I work a lot with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients.
As they say, the only thing permanent in this world is change. Change, like people, comes in different shapes and sizes. It could be as simple as changing clothes, to more complex ones like a break up, death, or coming out. My goal is to help you manage and deal with changes in your life. By providing you with a safe and comfortable environment and my use of various therapeutic techniques, my hope is that you will feel supported, heard, understood, and obtain the necessary coping skills to help you through this journey called life.
(646) 791-2763 View (646) 791-2763
Photo of Dr. Elsa Lau, Psychologist in New York
Dr. Elsa Lau
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
Are you navigating life transitions (career, health, relational) and identity explorations (LGBTQ+, giftedness and neurodivergence, creativity, activism, culture, or spirituality)? Does anxiety influence your experience of intimacy, meaning, and vitality? Processing all of this in a safe space can reveal the powerful possibilities within new chapters of life.
Are you navigating life transitions (career, health, relational) and identity explorations (LGBTQ+, giftedness and neurodivergence, creativity, activism, culture, or spirituality)? Does anxiety influence your experience of intimacy, meaning, and vitality? Processing all of this in a safe space can reveal the powerful possibilities within new chapters of life.
(917) 267-8306 View (917) 267-8306
Photo of Eliza Milliken, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Eliza Milliken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
Specialties: LGBTQIA+, Couples, Trauma, ADHD, Peer Relationships, Family Relationships, New to the City, Dating, Depression, Anxiety, Job Coaching, Self-Esteem, Identity Development, Substance Abuse, Panic Attacks, Grief & Bereavement, Self Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Sex-Related Concerns, Life Transitions.
Eliza Milliken is a Licensed Master Social Worker who specializes in working with Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Depression, Relationship Issues, Family Dynamics, Self-Esteem, Substance Abuse, and Career/Personal Coaching with LGBTQIA+ Adolescents, Adults, Couples, and Families.
Specialties: LGBTQIA+, Couples, Trauma, ADHD, Peer Relationships, Family Relationships, New to the City, Dating, Depression, Anxiety, Job Coaching, Self-Esteem, Identity Development, Substance Abuse, Panic Attacks, Grief & Bereavement, Self Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Sex-Related Concerns, Life Transitions.
Eliza Milliken is a Licensed Master Social Worker who specializes in working with Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Depression, Relationship Issues, Family Dynamics, Self-Esteem, Substance Abuse, and Career/Personal Coaching with LGBTQIA+ Adolescents, Adults, Couples, and Families.
(929) 470-5990 View (929) 470-5990
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.