LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Pawtucket, RI

Photo of Keith A Marks, LMHC, Counselor
Keith A Marks
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02860
I have 10 years experience and I am competent in addressing: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexuality, gender identity, self-esteem, life transitions and addiction/recovery.
Sept.2024 - I have openings for new clients looking for morning and day time appointments. Please email me with any inquires. I do well with client's seeking a relationship that has the potential to help you understand yourself better. Therapy can be a safe place for you to get honest and work towards better mental health. With the hope to help you identify your barriers towards emotional growth, and better understand how your past has impacted your present. This is done with a strong focus on self compassion and grace.
I have 10 years experience and I am competent in addressing: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexuality, gender identity, self-esteem, life transitions and addiction/recovery.
Sept.2024 - I have openings for new clients looking for morning and day time appointments. Please email me with any inquires. I do well with client's seeking a relationship that has the potential to help you understand yourself better. Therapy can be a safe place for you to get honest and work towards better mental health. With the hope to help you identify your barriers towards emotional growth, and better understand how your past has impacted your present. This is done with a strong focus on self compassion and grace.
(401) 283-7950 View (401) 283-7950
Photo of Sarah Palomo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Palomo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pawtucket, RI 02860
I work with teenagers, emerging adults, and adults. I care deeply about offering queer and gender affirming therapy and welcome queer and gender expansive folks of all ages. I draw on relational, intersectional feminist, narrative, internal family systems, attachment, and somatic approaches to therapy. I am also trained in EMDR and can support folks looking to process trauma in this way. I strive to make each client feel understood, valued, and empowered because I believe healing and growth emerge from a strong therapeutic relationship.
I work with teenagers, emerging adults, and adults. I care deeply about offering queer and gender affirming therapy and welcome queer and gender expansive folks of all ages. I draw on relational, intersectional feminist, narrative, internal family systems, attachment, and somatic approaches to therapy. I am also trained in EMDR and can support folks looking to process trauma in this way. I strive to make each client feel understood, valued, and empowered because I believe healing and growth emerge from a strong therapeutic relationship.
(401) 358-6300 View (401) 358-6300
Photo of Jose Rosario, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jose Rosario
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pawtucket, RI 02861  (Online Only)
I truly enjoy supporting clients in understanding themselves and their experiences through a compassionate lens. I am honored to support identity exploration (e.g., LGBTQ+, communities of color) in ways that move clients to the life that they want. I firmly believe that it is my job as a therapist to hold client's hope for them when they cannot hope for themselves. We can sit in the discomfort together and savor the moments that feel aligned. My goal is to provide clients with skills and tools to cope with the tough moments, knowing we cannot get rid of them, to live a full life.
I truly enjoy supporting clients in understanding themselves and their experiences through a compassionate lens. I am honored to support identity exploration (e.g., LGBTQ+, communities of color) in ways that move clients to the life that they want. I firmly believe that it is my job as a therapist to hold client's hope for them when they cannot hope for themselves. We can sit in the discomfort together and savor the moments that feel aligned. My goal is to provide clients with skills and tools to cope with the tough moments, knowing we cannot get rid of them, to live a full life.
(401) 592-5044 View (401) 592-5044
Photo of Kira Keenan, LICSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kira Keenan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02861  (Online Only)
Beyond therapy, I'm also an experienced sex educator with expertise in sex and disabilities, LGBTQIA+ health, BDSM, sexual pleasure, and non-monogamous relationships.
I work with clients from a very wide diversity of experiences and identities. I have significant experience focusing on issues of sexual functioning and pleasure, desire in longterm relationships, gender and/or sexual identity, and healing from sexual violence and/or complex trauma. I notice that these often occur alongside depression, anxiety and other mood-related challenges. As every person is unique, I have learned that how I work is also unique to each therapeutic relationship. My clinical work integrates exploring and understanding one's deeply held values, and working to build a life that reflects these.
Beyond therapy, I'm also an experienced sex educator with expertise in sex and disabilities, LGBTQIA+ health, BDSM, sexual pleasure, and non-monogamous relationships.
I work with clients from a very wide diversity of experiences and identities. I have significant experience focusing on issues of sexual functioning and pleasure, desire in longterm relationships, gender and/or sexual identity, and healing from sexual violence and/or complex trauma. I notice that these often occur alongside depression, anxiety and other mood-related challenges. As every person is unique, I have learned that how I work is also unique to each therapeutic relationship. My clinical work integrates exploring and understanding one's deeply held values, and working to build a life that reflects these.
(401) 343-6294 View (401) 343-6294
Photo of Christina Stang, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Stang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02860  (Online Only)
I am a clinical social worker who specializes in perinatal mental health. Whether you are pregnant, the partner of someone who is, or postpartum, I am here to support you in your experience. In addition to treating perinatal issues, I focus on grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorders, and treating trauma. I enjoy working with LGBTQ populations, particularly with teens, and issues around family planning and relationships. Depending on what we see as your areas of need, I am happy to work on a short or longer term basis. I am currently conducting all appointments via Zoom or phone only.
I am a clinical social worker who specializes in perinatal mental health. Whether you are pregnant, the partner of someone who is, or postpartum, I am here to support you in your experience. In addition to treating perinatal issues, I focus on grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorders, and treating trauma. I enjoy working with LGBTQ populations, particularly with teens, and issues around family planning and relationships. Depending on what we see as your areas of need, I am happy to work on a short or longer term basis. I am currently conducting all appointments via Zoom or phone only.
(401) 340-2853 View (401) 340-2853
Photo of Deb Deragon, LICSW, MPA, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deb Deragon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MPA, MSW
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02860
Have you hit a roadblock, feel stuck or overwhelmed? You can overcome this challenge and I can help! I focus on individualized and collaborative treatment with teens, adults, and families. We can work together to build on your strengths and develop new skills to manage stress, anxiety, depression, have better communication and overall wellness.
Have you hit a roadblock, feel stuck or overwhelmed? You can overcome this challenge and I can help! I focus on individualized and collaborative treatment with teens, adults, and families. We can work together to build on your strengths and develop new skills to manage stress, anxiety, depression, have better communication and overall wellness.
(401) 307-5482 View (401) 307-5482
Photo of Syd LaBonte (Loiselle), LICSW, CACYFSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Syd LaBonte (Loiselle)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CACYFSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pawtucket, RI 02860
Fall 2024 - Accepting new clients with after school availability. Syd is an experienced individual and family therapist with over six years of practice in various settings, including home, community, & office based care. Syd has worked extensively with children, youth, and families dealing with attachment disruptions, trauma, and chronic mental illness. Specializing in client-centered, strengths-based care for youth ages 7-18, Syd's areas of expertise include gender-affirming therapy, trauma, family conflict, self-harm and suicidality, and educational advocacy.
Fall 2024 - Accepting new clients with after school availability. Syd is an experienced individual and family therapist with over six years of practice in various settings, including home, community, & office based care. Syd has worked extensively with children, youth, and families dealing with attachment disruptions, trauma, and chronic mental illness. Specializing in client-centered, strengths-based care for youth ages 7-18, Syd's areas of expertise include gender-affirming therapy, trauma, family conflict, self-harm and suicidality, and educational advocacy.
(401) 366-4117 View (401) 366-4117
Photo of James M Geckler, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
James M Geckler
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02860  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Openings available for telehealth (mid-day Saturdays) only at this time. I enjoy working with people who want to learn more about themselves and explore their identity, children and adolescents experiencing emotional and life adjustment concerns, and people experiencing major life transitions (grief and loss, college and career issues, stress, and finding meaning and purpose). I have worked with individuals from all paths of life, race and ethnic backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, belief systems, abilities, education levels, family and relationship structures, and economic backgrounds.
Openings available for telehealth (mid-day Saturdays) only at this time. I enjoy working with people who want to learn more about themselves and explore their identity, children and adolescents experiencing emotional and life adjustment concerns, and people experiencing major life transitions (grief and loss, college and career issues, stress, and finding meaning and purpose). I have worked with individuals from all paths of life, race and ethnic backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, belief systems, abilities, education levels, family and relationship structures, and economic backgrounds.
(401) 312-4070 View (401) 312-4070
Photo of Normand Brissette, MA, LMHC, LCDP, CADC, CCSP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Normand Brissette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCDP, CADC, CCSP
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02860
For over 23 years, I have been working in addictions counseling with individuals in all stages of addiction and recovery, and I’ve worked with individuals of all age groups. I believe recovery is possible for everyone who wants it and I want to assist you in meeting your own recovery goals.
For over 23 years, I have been working in addictions counseling with individuals in all stages of addiction and recovery, and I’ve worked with individuals of all age groups. I believe recovery is possible for everyone who wants it and I want to assist you in meeting your own recovery goals.
(401) 561-7586 View (401) 561-7586
Photo of Malaysia King - New England Wellness Collaborative, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New England Wellness Collaborative
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pawtucket, RI 02860
The client is the true “expert” in their own life and I see myself as a guide and mentor along the way. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and obtained a Master of Social Work from Rhode Island College. I enjoy working with young children, teens and emerging adults. I have a wide variety of experience working with clients with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, self-harm, suicidal ideation, substance and alcohol use, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, developmental disabilities, and more. I have experience in group work, domestic violence, divorce, DCYF and teenage adjustment.
The client is the true “expert” in their own life and I see myself as a guide and mentor along the way. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and obtained a Master of Social Work from Rhode Island College. I enjoy working with young children, teens and emerging adults. I have a wide variety of experience working with clients with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, self-harm, suicidal ideation, substance and alcohol use, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, developmental disabilities, and more. I have experience in group work, domestic violence, divorce, DCYF and teenage adjustment.
(401) 267-9810 x130 View (401) 267-9810 x130
Cynthia Perrine Wilcox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02861
My clients are stuck in certain patterns of behavior or thought that prevent them from living fuller more rewarding lives. They want to get unstuck.
My clients are stuck in certain patterns of behavior or thought that prevent them from living fuller more rewarding lives. They want to get unstuck.
(401) 251-0980 View (401) 251-0980
Photo of Kate Niles, MA, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Niles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02860
Waitlist for new clients
I love a diverse caseload but have special expertise in trauma work, relationship issues (co-dependence, setting boundaries, self-esteem), life transitions (especially for women), and late teen/coIlege-aged adults.
My ideal client is an adult or late teen/young adult, with an interest in improving and transforming their life via therapy. I focus on the whole person, contextualizing presenting problems/diagnoses within the framework of family dynamics, peer relations, trauma history, physical health, and job/school experience. That is, I don't consider it useful to assume that issues arise in a vacuum! The greatest gift my clients give me is their ability to teach me far more than I could possibly teach them. I consider our time in session one of validation, hope, and intense curiosity about my client's lives.
I love a diverse caseload but have special expertise in trauma work, relationship issues (co-dependence, setting boundaries, self-esteem), life transitions (especially for women), and late teen/coIlege-aged adults.
My ideal client is an adult or late teen/young adult, with an interest in improving and transforming their life via therapy. I focus on the whole person, contextualizing presenting problems/diagnoses within the framework of family dynamics, peer relations, trauma history, physical health, and job/school experience. That is, I don't consider it useful to assume that issues arise in a vacuum! The greatest gift my clients give me is their ability to teach me far more than I could possibly teach them. I consider our time in session one of validation, hope, and intense curiosity about my client's lives.
(970) 840-2047 View (970) 840-2047
Photo of Jenny DeSilva, LMHC, Counselor
Jenny DeSilva
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pawtucket, RI 02861  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with people across the lifespan; including children, parents, teenagers, young adults transitioning into new phases of life, and adults.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Rhode Island. I have over 10 years experience in trauma-informed work, including family dynamics, children, teens, young adults, and adults. I completed a my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Seton Hall University and I previously worked in private practice, agency, and in-home settings. 
Using a variety of psychodynamic approaches as well as holistic strategies, I work with each client to create a treatment plan that reflects the goals and lifestyle of each individual.
I enjoy working with people across the lifespan; including children, parents, teenagers, young adults transitioning into new phases of life, and adults.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Rhode Island. I have over 10 years experience in trauma-informed work, including family dynamics, children, teens, young adults, and adults. I completed a my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Seton Hall University and I previously worked in private practice, agency, and in-home settings. 
Using a variety of psychodynamic approaches as well as holistic strategies, I work with each client to create a treatment plan that reflects the goals and lifestyle of each individual.
(401) 409-8760 View (401) 409-8760
Photo of Yael Bat-Shimon, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Yael Bat-Shimon
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02860
I want couples to achieve "REAL" transformation of their relationships and to grow together towards ever deeper and stronger connection.
I am a Certified Imago Therapist and am passionate about working with couples of all kinds. I help couples live out their wildest dreams for themselves and their relationships. Maybe your relationship/marriage is in crisis or failing. Maybe it's stagnant or full of conflict and, sensing this, your children are beginning to act out in ways that baffle you. Maybe you have become overwhelmed by parenthood and wonder how you and your spouse have managed to drift so far apart and feel so frantic and disconnected. My sessions focus on couples' strengths and resources rather than pathology.
I want couples to achieve "REAL" transformation of their relationships and to grow together towards ever deeper and stronger connection.
I am a Certified Imago Therapist and am passionate about working with couples of all kinds. I help couples live out their wildest dreams for themselves and their relationships. Maybe your relationship/marriage is in crisis or failing. Maybe it's stagnant or full of conflict and, sensing this, your children are beginning to act out in ways that baffle you. Maybe you have become overwhelmed by parenthood and wonder how you and your spouse have managed to drift so far apart and feel so frantic and disconnected. My sessions focus on couples' strengths and resources rather than pathology.
(401) 371-9079 View (401) 371-9079
Photo of Paula M Smith, PhD, MFT, MDiv, Pre-Licensed Professional
Paula M Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pawtucket, RI 02860
My specialty is "COUPLES." The work I do with couples is not covered by insurance(s). I specialize in using Imago relationship therapy, attachment theory, somatic therapy & neuroscience. The issues that concern couples are usually styles of communication, infidelity, conflict, racial distress, commitment & navigating differences. I work with couples on a "short-term" private intensive basis beginning with a 2-hr assessment that gives you hope and insight into areas of strength and growth. My philosophy is grounded in the idea that relationship are an adventure to be had; not a problem to be solved.
My specialty is "COUPLES." The work I do with couples is not covered by insurance(s). I specialize in using Imago relationship therapy, attachment theory, somatic therapy & neuroscience. The issues that concern couples are usually styles of communication, infidelity, conflict, racial distress, commitment & navigating differences. I work with couples on a "short-term" private intensive basis beginning with a 2-hr assessment that gives you hope and insight into areas of strength and growth. My philosophy is grounded in the idea that relationship are an adventure to be had; not a problem to be solved.
(401) 250-8963 View (401) 250-8963
Photo of Brittany Proulx, LMHC , RYT , Counselor
Brittany Proulx
Counselor, LMHC , RYT
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02861  (Online Only)
I look forward to embarking on this transformative journey with you!.
As a compassionate and experienced therapist, I am dedicated to helping individuals like you find healing, resilience, and a renewed sense of well-being. My approach is rooted in empathy and respect to create a safe space of growth. I believe that each person has within them the capacity for transformation and growth, and I am here to guide you on that journey. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply feeling stuck in life, I will work collaboratively with you to develop practical strategies and effective coping skills that can empower you to overcome obstacles & achieve your goals.
I look forward to embarking on this transformative journey with you!.
As a compassionate and experienced therapist, I am dedicated to helping individuals like you find healing, resilience, and a renewed sense of well-being. My approach is rooted in empathy and respect to create a safe space of growth. I believe that each person has within them the capacity for transformation and growth, and I am here to guide you on that journey. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply feeling stuck in life, I will work collaboratively with you to develop practical strategies and effective coping skills that can empower you to overcome obstacles & achieve your goals.
(401) 409-5398 View (401) 409-5398
Photo of Meg Hermann, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Meg Hermann
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pawtucket, RI 02861  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include trauma, life transitions, depression, anxiety, family, school support, suicidality, self-harm, personality disorder, autism spectrum disorder, bereavement, and relationship issues.
Now accepting NEW-CLIENTS: Therapy is a personal journey and experience. Therapy can be used to encourage, strengthen, and change aspects of our lives. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I have experience with and currently provide therapy to children, adolescents, parents, adults, couples, and families. I will strive to cultivate a transparent relationship with you that will provide us with a positive foundation for the work you would like accomplish in therapy.
My areas of specialty include trauma, life transitions, depression, anxiety, family, school support, suicidality, self-harm, personality disorder, autism spectrum disorder, bereavement, and relationship issues.
Now accepting NEW-CLIENTS: Therapy is a personal journey and experience. Therapy can be used to encourage, strengthen, and change aspects of our lives. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I have experience with and currently provide therapy to children, adolescents, parents, adults, couples, and families. I will strive to cultivate a transparent relationship with you that will provide us with a positive foundation for the work you would like accomplish in therapy.
(401) 208-0701 View (401) 208-0701
Photo of Cherie L Davis, PhD, LMHC, CAGS
Cherie L Davis
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CAGS
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02861
Ensure clients acquire the skills necessary to attain success, specializing in issues related to military personnel and their families and those in transitions.
Dr. Cherie has over twenty plus years of experience working with various populations, both civilian and military but admits she learns something everyday from her patients. Dr. Cherie is a disabled military veteran and a dedicated member of various local military organizations. Dr. Cherie proudly admits she was once a patient and therapy has made all the difference in her life. Finally, Dr. Cherie is a proud member of the Association for Allied and Therapeutic Humor and strongly believes in the healing power of humor!
Ensure clients acquire the skills necessary to attain success, specializing in issues related to military personnel and their families and those in transitions.
Dr. Cherie has over twenty plus years of experience working with various populations, both civilian and military but admits she learns something everyday from her patients. Dr. Cherie is a disabled military veteran and a dedicated member of various local military organizations. Dr. Cherie proudly admits she was once a patient and therapy has made all the difference in her life. Finally, Dr. Cherie is a proud member of the Association for Allied and Therapeutic Humor and strongly believes in the healing power of humor!
(401) 305-1764 View (401) 305-1764
Photo of Gina Maclure - URI Couple and Family Therapy Clinic Pawtucket , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
URI Couple and Family Therapy Clinic Pawtucket
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02860
The Couple and Family Therapy Clinic is affiliated with the University of Rhode Island as a teaching, training and research facility with specialized expertise in relationship and family issues. Our process respectfully centers you and your preferences as we work towards your goals. We value a collaborative, empathic and solution-focused framework. Our office is private and easily accessible with ample parking. We match almost all insurance co-pays. If you do not have insurance or struggle with high copays please inquire about our scholarship support.
The Couple and Family Therapy Clinic is affiliated with the University of Rhode Island as a teaching, training and research facility with specialized expertise in relationship and family issues. Our process respectfully centers you and your preferences as we work towards your goals. We value a collaborative, empathic and solution-focused framework. Our office is private and easily accessible with ample parking. We match almost all insurance co-pays. If you do not have insurance or struggle with high copays please inquire about our scholarship support.
(401) 235-4799 View (401) 235-4799
Photo of Janet K Hindley - Janet Hindley Counseling Services, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Hindley Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pawtucket, RI 02861
As a therapist who has been invited to share this transitional journey with clients for many years, I welcome the opportunity to assist you in navigating the transitions in your life's journey.
Transitions - our lives are made up of them.....some long awaited - some unannounced. We will not escape them and they will change our lives. How we navigate transitions will impact our lives going forward - until the next one arrives! Facing the challenges of life's transitions becomes less difficult when we have a trusted, nonjudgmental and objective person with whom we can openly share our thoughts and feelings.
As a therapist who has been invited to share this transitional journey with clients for many years, I welcome the opportunity to assist you in navigating the transitions in your life's journey.
Transitions - our lives are made up of them.....some long awaited - some unannounced. We will not escape them and they will change our lives. How we navigate transitions will impact our lives going forward - until the next one arrives! Facing the challenges of life's transitions becomes less difficult when we have a trusted, nonjudgmental and objective person with whom we can openly share our thoughts and feelings.
(401) 415-0282 View (401) 415-0282
1
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.