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Online Therapists

Photo of Present Beings Couple & Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Manzanita, OR
Present Beings Couple & Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Currently, I have 1-2 openings for individual clients; a waitlist for relational therapy; and quarterly openings in my two therapy groups, 'Queer Authenticity & Attachment', and the 'TransMasc Group Therapy'. Reach out fore more info! + + + + + Hi! I'm Del, founder of Present Beings. As a therapist, I see individual, couple & adult families. My clients are LGBTQIA2S+ folks from all backgrounds & abilities who are tired of going in circles with their people or parts - this includes partners, colleagues, siblings, parents and even conflicting aspects of one's Self!
Currently, I have 1-2 openings for individual clients; a waitlist for relational therapy; and quarterly openings in my two therapy groups, 'Queer Authenticity & Attachment', and the 'TransMasc Group Therapy'. Reach out fore more info! + + + + + Hi! I'm Del, founder of Present Beings. As a therapist, I see individual, couple & adult families. My clients are LGBTQIA2S+ folks from all backgrounds & abilities who are tired of going in circles with their people or parts - this includes partners, colleagues, siblings, parents and even conflicting aspects of one's Self!
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Photo of Abby Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Manzanita, OR
Abby Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I am a queer identifying therapist who focuses her practice on working with queer populations.
I provide queer affirming therapy for adult individuals and couples who are wanting to explore their identity, sexuality or navigate relationships. In our sessions I utilize attachment and trauma-based techniques to work through your concerns, create a better relationship with your body and relationships, and explore your experiences around intimacy. While I work with a wide variety of identities, I specifically specialize in working with individuals on the asexual spectrum and couple who are navigating mixed orientation relationships.
I am a queer identifying therapist who focuses her practice on working with queer populations.
I provide queer affirming therapy for adult individuals and couples who are wanting to explore their identity, sexuality or navigate relationships. In our sessions I utilize attachment and trauma-based techniques to work through your concerns, create a better relationship with your body and relationships, and explore your experiences around intimacy. While I work with a wide variety of identities, I specifically specialize in working with individuals on the asexual spectrum and couple who are navigating mixed orientation relationships.
(971) 265-8082 View (971) 265-8082
Photo of Mik Dailey, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Manzanita, OR
Mik Dailey
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I'm intimately familiar with the magic (and exhaustion) of being trans in a cisnormative society.
I hold unflinching space for folks wanting to survive and thrive outside the norms. Quirky oddballs, freaky queers, radical rebels, whatever trail you're blazing, you'll be celebrated here. It's an intense time to be alive and it takes guts to be yourself in a world that is often unkind. You may be navigating understandably scary questions about who you want to be, how to reconnect with your partner, or where to find reprieve from overwhelming stress. You don't have to do it alone. I will skillfully hold the tough stuff, while also supporting you in sowing seeds of joy, pleasure, and resistance.
I'm intimately familiar with the magic (and exhaustion) of being trans in a cisnormative society.
I hold unflinching space for folks wanting to survive and thrive outside the norms. Quirky oddballs, freaky queers, radical rebels, whatever trail you're blazing, you'll be celebrated here. It's an intense time to be alive and it takes guts to be yourself in a world that is often unkind. You may be navigating understandably scary questions about who you want to be, how to reconnect with your partner, or where to find reprieve from overwhelming stress. You don't have to do it alone. I will skillfully hold the tough stuff, while also supporting you in sowing seeds of joy, pleasure, and resistance.
(503) 966-2343 View (503) 966-2343
Photo of Alma Hadzidedic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manzanita, OR
Alma Hadzidedic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Your willingness to seek help is a courageous step towards healing & change. I believe in the transformative power of a therapeutic relationship and view it as our combined effort. I use LGBTQIA+ affirming, social justice-oriented, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approaches to foster a safe, consistent and curious environment that supports your wisdom while guiding your pursuit of valued and meaningful living. Our partnership will include my extensive education & advanced training working with individuals who have been adversely impacted by relational and attachment disruptions, abuse/neglect and complex traumatic experiences.
Your willingness to seek help is a courageous step towards healing & change. I believe in the transformative power of a therapeutic relationship and view it as our combined effort. I use LGBTQIA+ affirming, social justice-oriented, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approaches to foster a safe, consistent and curious environment that supports your wisdom while guiding your pursuit of valued and meaningful living. Our partnership will include my extensive education & advanced training working with individuals who have been adversely impacted by relational and attachment disruptions, abuse/neglect and complex traumatic experiences.
(503) 300-6261 View (503) 300-6261
Photo of Joshua Bytendorp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Manzanita, OR
Joshua Bytendorp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97266  (Online Only)
As a queer neurodivergent (autism/ADHD) sex therapist, I provide a unique experience for my clients to be able to work through issues around sex, sexuality, trauma, religious trauma, gender dysphoria and other mental health issues. I provide a safe nonjudgmental place for those who identify as queer, neurodivergent, kinky, ENM who wants a therapist who has extensive training and understanding of the issues that you face and deal with.
As a queer neurodivergent (autism/ADHD) sex therapist, I provide a unique experience for my clients to be able to work through issues around sex, sexuality, trauma, religious trauma, gender dysphoria and other mental health issues. I provide a safe nonjudgmental place for those who identify as queer, neurodivergent, kinky, ENM who wants a therapist who has extensive training and understanding of the issues that you face and deal with.
(503) 400-3683 View (503) 400-3683
Photo of Jarrad Malamed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manzanita, OR
Jarrad Malamed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
In psychotherapy, I, Jarrad Malamed, an LGBTQIA-identified therapist, prioritize diversity and inclusivity. Through an integrative approach blending interpersonal, relational, gestalt, experiential, and cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT), I aim to customize healing and growth experiences for my clients. Interpersonal therapy (IPT) focuses on relationships' impact on mental well-being, emphasizing communication, conflict resolution, and healthy boundaries. Relational therapy explores past and present relationship dynamics, aiding clients in understanding attachment styles and fostering authentic connections.
In psychotherapy, I, Jarrad Malamed, an LGBTQIA-identified therapist, prioritize diversity and inclusivity. Through an integrative approach blending interpersonal, relational, gestalt, experiential, and cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT), I aim to customize healing and growth experiences for my clients. Interpersonal therapy (IPT) focuses on relationships' impact on mental well-being, emphasizing communication, conflict resolution, and healthy boundaries. Relational therapy explores past and present relationship dynamics, aiding clients in understanding attachment styles and fostering authentic connections.
(424) 688-7011 View (424) 688-7011
Photo of Gary Conachan III, Pre-Licensed Professional in Manzanita, OR
Gary Conachan III
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97266  (Online Only)
As an ex-evangelical queer person, I am passionate about partnering with LGBTQIA+ adults to help them live authentic and fulfilling sexual, relational, and spiritual lives through sex and relationship therapy. Client issues include but are not limited to navigating non-affirming relationships, sexual concerns and "dysfunctions," and breakdowns in communication or values conflicts. I collaborate with my clients to increase self-understanding, foster agency, clarify self-defined values, build communication skills, increase emotional well-being in relationships, heal from religious trauma, and explore spirituality.
As an ex-evangelical queer person, I am passionate about partnering with LGBTQIA+ adults to help them live authentic and fulfilling sexual, relational, and spiritual lives through sex and relationship therapy. Client issues include but are not limited to navigating non-affirming relationships, sexual concerns and "dysfunctions," and breakdowns in communication or values conflicts. I collaborate with my clients to increase self-understanding, foster agency, clarify self-defined values, build communication skills, increase emotional well-being in relationships, heal from religious trauma, and explore spirituality.
(503) 543-1994 View (503) 543-1994
Photo of Wyatt Okeefe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Manzanita, OR
Wyatt Okeefe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
As a therapist who identifies as queer and transmasculine, my expertise lies in creating a secure and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community. I conduct private online sessions and hold licenses in Washington, Oregon, Georgia, Florida and New York. Specializing in individual telehealth therapy for adults navigating issues such as coming out, social and/or physical transitioning, and mental health management, I approach each situation with compassion. I am attuned to the distinctive challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and am committed to fostering a safer world through advocacy and support for all my clients.
As a therapist who identifies as queer and transmasculine, my expertise lies in creating a secure and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community. I conduct private online sessions and hold licenses in Washington, Oregon, Georgia, Florida and New York. Specializing in individual telehealth therapy for adults navigating issues such as coming out, social and/or physical transitioning, and mental health management, I approach each situation with compassion. I am attuned to the distinctive challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and am committed to fostering a safer world through advocacy and support for all my clients.
(971) 328-3803 View (971) 328-3803
Photo of Alex Bershon, Pre-Licensed Professional in Manzanita, OR
Alex Bershon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I specialize in supporting queer individuals ready for a profound therapeutic journey, particularly those navigating topics like sex/sexuality, trauma, relationships (including non-monogamy), grief, and the challenges of people-pleasing.
I want to create a judgment-free space where your unique story is cherished, perfections are embraced, and your journey is the center of our work. My commitment is to use warmth, compassion, and understanding to help unravel the narratives we all weave about how we "should" navigate life. It's about your authenticity, vulnerability, and rawness. In the therapeutic space, perfection is neither expected nor sought. It's a comforting space for the beautiful messiness of your experiences, where words don't need to be flawless, imperfections are treated as unique threads in your story, and self-discovery unfolds at your pace.
I specialize in supporting queer individuals ready for a profound therapeutic journey, particularly those navigating topics like sex/sexuality, trauma, relationships (including non-monogamy), grief, and the challenges of people-pleasing.
I want to create a judgment-free space where your unique story is cherished, perfections are embraced, and your journey is the center of our work. My commitment is to use warmth, compassion, and understanding to help unravel the narratives we all weave about how we "should" navigate life. It's about your authenticity, vulnerability, and rawness. In the therapeutic space, perfection is neither expected nor sought. It's a comforting space for the beautiful messiness of your experiences, where words don't need to be flawless, imperfections are treated as unique threads in your story, and self-discovery unfolds at your pace.
(503) 966-8180 x28 View (503) 966-8180 x28
Photo of Shayna MacLean, Licensed Professional Counselor in Manzanita, OR
Shayna MacLean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Shayna and it's nice to meet you. I currently have openings for new clients. I am passionate about serving marginalized communities who have previously experienced harm within the mental health system as a result of institutionalized biases. Additionally, I specialize in working with folx transitioning into adulthood, individuals exploring their various identities including gender and sexuality identities, and survivors of trauma related to domestic violence and sexual assault. I have passion in serving the LGBTQ+ community and identify as part of the community. Trauma informed therapy is the basis for my work.
Hello my name is Shayna and it's nice to meet you. I currently have openings for new clients. I am passionate about serving marginalized communities who have previously experienced harm within the mental health system as a result of institutionalized biases. Additionally, I specialize in working with folx transitioning into adulthood, individuals exploring their various identities including gender and sexuality identities, and survivors of trauma related to domestic violence and sexual assault. I have passion in serving the LGBTQ+ community and identify as part of the community. Trauma informed therapy is the basis for my work.
(503) 212-6681 View (503) 212-6681
Photo of Kylar Batten, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Manzanita, OR
Kylar Batten
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MAT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I am a therapist who enjoys working with couples, individuals, and youth ages 11-17 . Marginalized folx are my specialty: Queer / GNC / Neurodivergent, POC. My goal is to help you find a better understanding of who you are and who you want to become and then together we will chart a path forward. When I work with couples, I consider your relationship the client. My couples therapy work is from an emotionally focused, trauma informed, and attachment style lens. With all of my clients I find it helpful to examine how your historical and present contexts impact your relationship with yourself and others.
I am a therapist who enjoys working with couples, individuals, and youth ages 11-17 . Marginalized folx are my specialty: Queer / GNC / Neurodivergent, POC. My goal is to help you find a better understanding of who you are and who you want to become and then together we will chart a path forward. When I work with couples, I consider your relationship the client. My couples therapy work is from an emotionally focused, trauma informed, and attachment style lens. With all of my clients I find it helpful to examine how your historical and present contexts impact your relationship with yourself and others.
(503) 832-4876 View (503) 832-4876
Photo of Garrison Cox, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Manzanita, OR
Garrison Cox
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I work primarily with queer clients and have a focus on gay men's issues.
Welcome. You’re here because something within you feels stuck. Maybe it feels like the pieces are in the air and have yet to land. You might be coping with painful emotions that don’t seem to resolve, no matter how much time you spend thinking your way through them. You might want the best for yourself and your close relationships, but struggle to unburden yourself from irritation, anxiety, or depression. I’ve been there too. I believe wholeheartedly that every person has their own path toward transformation and healing, and it is my role to help you walk that path and clear the branches and thorns from the way.
I work primarily with queer clients and have a focus on gay men's issues.
Welcome. You’re here because something within you feels stuck. Maybe it feels like the pieces are in the air and have yet to land. You might be coping with painful emotions that don’t seem to resolve, no matter how much time you spend thinking your way through them. You might want the best for yourself and your close relationships, but struggle to unburden yourself from irritation, anxiety, or depression. I’ve been there too. I believe wholeheartedly that every person has their own path toward transformation and healing, and it is my role to help you walk that path and clear the branches and thorns from the way.
(971) 414-3105 View (971) 414-3105
Photo of Hazel Hamann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manzanita, OR
Hazel Hamann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
(858) 251-8653 View (858) 251-8653
Photo of Heartland Healing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manzanita, OR
Heartland Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC, MSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Heartland Psychotherapy centers LGBTQ+ and other marginalized communities, working with motivated individuals to build insight, confront obstacles to well-being, and heal trauma to move toward self-actualization & joy. Our team of LBGTQ+ and allied therapists represent many identities & theoretical perspectives, and work from queer feminist and family systems frameworks. We value self-determination, holistic health, harm reduction, and disability & racial justice. Relationships are built through collaboration, creativity, and recognition of the environmental & cultural factors that impact clients' lives.
Heartland Psychotherapy centers LGBTQ+ and other marginalized communities, working with motivated individuals to build insight, confront obstacles to well-being, and heal trauma to move toward self-actualization & joy. Our team of LBGTQ+ and allied therapists represent many identities & theoretical perspectives, and work from queer feminist and family systems frameworks. We value self-determination, holistic health, harm reduction, and disability & racial justice. Relationships are built through collaboration, creativity, and recognition of the environmental & cultural factors that impact clients' lives.
(720) 961-2439 View (720) 961-2439
Photo of Jayna Bates, Professional Counselor Associate in Manzanita, OR
Jayna Bates
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203  (Online Only)
Hello there! I am a professional counselor associate who has been working for over 3 years. I am a queer non-binary femme and have a lot of experience with LGBTQIA+ clients, as well as partners and family of transgender individuals. Furthermore, I enjoy working with clients in non-traditional relationship styles, such as polyamory or long-distance relationships. I can assist in processing religious trauma and figuring out how to meet spiritual needs in new ways. I also have a lot of insight and compassion for men who want to build introspective skills.
Hello there! I am a professional counselor associate who has been working for over 3 years. I am a queer non-binary femme and have a lot of experience with LGBTQIA+ clients, as well as partners and family of transgender individuals. Furthermore, I enjoy working with clients in non-traditional relationship styles, such as polyamory or long-distance relationships. I can assist in processing religious trauma and figuring out how to meet spiritual needs in new ways. I also have a lot of insight and compassion for men who want to build introspective skills.
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Photo of Jules Duncan-Martinez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Manzanita, OR
Jules Duncan-Martinez
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCA
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
It is important to understand systematic oppression as it affects marginalized communities, including BIPOC and LGBTQ+.
Hello my name is Jules (she/her) it is nice to meet you. I’m a mental health therapist located in Oregon, welcoming to people of diverse social, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. I specialize in working with adolescents (14+) and adults presenting with issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, history of abuse, sexual assault, sexual and gender identity, and self-harm. In my approach, traumatic experiences must be approached through a trauma informed lens, meaning creating an environment that understands trauma as multifaceted while minimizing risk of re-traumatization
It is important to understand systematic oppression as it affects marginalized communities, including BIPOC and LGBTQ+.
Hello my name is Jules (she/her) it is nice to meet you. I’m a mental health therapist located in Oregon, welcoming to people of diverse social, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. I specialize in working with adolescents (14+) and adults presenting with issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, history of abuse, sexual assault, sexual and gender identity, and self-harm. In my approach, traumatic experiences must be approached through a trauma informed lens, meaning creating an environment that understands trauma as multifaceted while minimizing risk of re-traumatization
(503) 809-5582 View (503) 809-5582
Photo of Trisha Nozumi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Manzanita, OR
Trisha Nozumi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, QMHP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
My areas of professional interest involve working with individuals who have experienced trauma, family and relationship therapy, and LGBTQIA(plus) populations.
As a therapist, my approach is grounded in empathy, compassion, and person-centered counseling. I don’t believe that therapy is a “one size fits all,” and I utilize a variety of methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Attachment Theory to provide an approach that will fit your individual needs.
My areas of professional interest involve working with individuals who have experienced trauma, family and relationship therapy, and LGBTQIA(plus) populations.
As a therapist, my approach is grounded in empathy, compassion, and person-centered counseling. I don’t believe that therapy is a “one size fits all,” and I utilize a variety of methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Attachment Theory to provide an approach that will fit your individual needs.
(503) 461-5449 View (503) 461-5449
Photo of Amanda Best, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Manzanita, OR
Amanda Best
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Specializing in sex and relationship therapy, I generally work with erotically marginalized folx who are in the LGBTQIA+, kink, and non-monogamous community.
If you’ve ever felt stuck in your relationship, alone in your sexual exploration, incapable of overcoming your triggers, or just unsupported, you’re in the right place. As a the founder of Bold Growth Therapy, I offer a direct and challenging yet nurturing presence to not only reach your therapeutic goals but to generate a deep internal belief system that speaks to your capability of being loved and deserving of connection. Whether it be navigating relationship injuries, betrayals, sexual concerns, life transitions, family issues, or trauma triggers; managing anxiety, or deepening your relationship, I'm here to facilitate change!
Specializing in sex and relationship therapy, I generally work with erotically marginalized folx who are in the LGBTQIA+, kink, and non-monogamous community.
If you’ve ever felt stuck in your relationship, alone in your sexual exploration, incapable of overcoming your triggers, or just unsupported, you’re in the right place. As a the founder of Bold Growth Therapy, I offer a direct and challenging yet nurturing presence to not only reach your therapeutic goals but to generate a deep internal belief system that speaks to your capability of being loved and deserving of connection. Whether it be navigating relationship injuries, betrayals, sexual concerns, life transitions, family issues, or trauma triggers; managing anxiety, or deepening your relationship, I'm here to facilitate change!
(503) 506-4941 View (503) 506-4941
Photo of Lorin Jonathan Pritts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Manzanita, OR
Lorin Jonathan Pritts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
My goal is to empower those who often find themselves in the margins in our society. My work often focuses on identity issues with LGBTQ individuals, couples or moresomes, and I work with folks in an affirming way that integrates principles of justice and equity. I utilize Narrative and Emotionally Focused systemic approaches in therapy to help my clients celebrate aspects of their identity that are often marginalized by society.
My goal is to empower those who often find themselves in the margins in our society. My work often focuses on identity issues with LGBTQ individuals, couples or moresomes, and I work with folks in an affirming way that integrates principles of justice and equity. I utilize Narrative and Emotionally Focused systemic approaches in therapy to help my clients celebrate aspects of their identity that are often marginalized by society.
(971) 800-2364 View (971) 800-2364
Photo of Lydia Blackwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manzanita, OR
Lydia Blackwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
My practice is trauma informed, antiracist, lgbtqia+, nonmonogomous, and neurodivergent friendly.
We're living through a difficult time period, which can compound upon pre-existing traumas, anxieties, stressors, and relational difficulties. I would love to join you alongside your journey to stability, improved quality of life/relationships, and mental health. I will explore with you your past and current experiences and feelings to get to the root of what is causing struggle and assist in locating a path of healing and relief.
My practice is trauma informed, antiracist, lgbtqia+, nonmonogomous, and neurodivergent friendly.
We're living through a difficult time period, which can compound upon pre-existing traumas, anxieties, stressors, and relational difficulties. I would love to join you alongside your journey to stability, improved quality of life/relationships, and mental health. I will explore with you your past and current experiences and feelings to get to the root of what is causing struggle and assist in locating a path of healing and relief.
(503) 868-2350 View (503) 868-2350

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Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Manzanita

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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.