LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Nashville, TN

Photo of Gabriel Starner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gabriel Starner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
My areas of special clinical interest include working with LGBTQIA+ clients, existential distress, religious trauma and abuse, ethical non-monogamy/non-traditional relationships, couple conflict, sex therapy, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I am a caring and empathetic person who has a heart for helping people. As a therapist I seek to work collaboratively with clients in establishing treatment goals. My hope is that clients will learn new and healthier ways of living and gain a greater ability to treat both themselves and others with compassion. It takes courage to step into the therapy room, so I work to provide a disarming and open space for clients to share. My curiosity guides me as I get to know people for who they are and I enjoy helping clients learn to think, feel, and act in new, productive ways to become the people they want to be.
My areas of special clinical interest include working with LGBTQIA+ clients, existential distress, religious trauma and abuse, ethical non-monogamy/non-traditional relationships, couple conflict, sex therapy, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I am a caring and empathetic person who has a heart for helping people. As a therapist I seek to work collaboratively with clients in establishing treatment goals. My hope is that clients will learn new and healthier ways of living and gain a greater ability to treat both themselves and others with compassion. It takes courage to step into the therapy room, so I work to provide a disarming and open space for clients to share. My curiosity guides me as I get to know people for who they are and I enjoy helping clients learn to think, feel, and act in new, productive ways to become the people they want to be.
(615) 471-6433 View (615) 471-6433
Photo of Lydia Henderson, MA, ATR-P, Art Therapist
Lydia Henderson
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211
Together we will foster a sacred space to experience the transformative process of witnessing and being witnessed.
Hi there! I’m Lydia and my pronouns are she/her. As a queer, neurodivergent woman, my lived experiences propel me towards advocacy for LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities. As an art therapist, my goal is to create a judgement-free space where you feel supported in your journey towards your most authentic self. It’s not uncommon for folks to feel unsure of or intimidated by the thought of art therapy, but my favorite thing about it is that you don’t have to be an artist or “good” at making art to benefit from the experience!
Together we will foster a sacred space to experience the transformative process of witnessing and being witnessed.
Hi there! I’m Lydia and my pronouns are she/her. As a queer, neurodivergent woman, my lived experiences propel me towards advocacy for LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities. As an art therapist, my goal is to create a judgement-free space where you feel supported in your journey towards your most authentic self. It’s not uncommon for folks to feel unsure of or intimidated by the thought of art therapy, but my favorite thing about it is that you don’t have to be an artist or “good” at making art to benefit from the experience!
(629) 280-4109 View (629) 280-4109
Photo of Cole G. Putman, MEd, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cole G. Putman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I am passionate about working with queer folks in the South - individuals, couples, and parents of LGBTQIA+ persons.
As a therapist, I strive to create an environment for my clients that fosters acceptance and connection in a way that best supports their healing and their journey. It is one of the greatest honors of my life to walk beside my clients through sorrow, anxiety, joy – all the experiences inherent in being human. I seek to aid clients in recognizing their own strengths as well as assist them in developing new coping skills to meet life’s challenges. As a therapist, I aim to greet every client, every session with non-judgment, radical acceptance, and a genuine interest in their wellbeing.
I am passionate about working with queer folks in the South - individuals, couples, and parents of LGBTQIA+ persons.
As a therapist, I strive to create an environment for my clients that fosters acceptance and connection in a way that best supports their healing and their journey. It is one of the greatest honors of my life to walk beside my clients through sorrow, anxiety, joy – all the experiences inherent in being human. I seek to aid clients in recognizing their own strengths as well as assist them in developing new coping skills to meet life’s challenges. As a therapist, I aim to greet every client, every session with non-judgment, radical acceptance, and a genuine interest in their wellbeing.
(615) 219-2690 View (615) 219-2690
Photo of Urielle Samis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Urielle Samis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that prevent you from thriving and succeeding in ways that deep down you know you can? Perhaps your relationships are suffering, or intimacy feels hard or scary. Whether it's anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress, relationship problems, self-harm, addictions, or something else, my guess is these patterns emerged from a need to cope or survive. As a queer person, I know how hard finding an affirming and non-judgmental therapist can be, especially if you are LGBTQ+. A therapist who meets you exactly where you are right now can be the first step to building the life you want!
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that prevent you from thriving and succeeding in ways that deep down you know you can? Perhaps your relationships are suffering, or intimacy feels hard or scary. Whether it's anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress, relationship problems, self-harm, addictions, or something else, my guess is these patterns emerged from a need to cope or survive. As a queer person, I know how hard finding an affirming and non-judgmental therapist can be, especially if you are LGBTQ+. A therapist who meets you exactly where you are right now can be the first step to building the life you want!
(615) 552-0598 View (615) 552-0598
Photo of Kevin Khye, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kevin Khye
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
Hi! I'm Kevin- your mindful therapist for the LGBTQIA+ community, trauma survivors, and those battling the twists and turns of anxiety and depression. I think of therapy like gardening. Taming the overgrowth of ignored emotions, tending to the roots of your experiences, and pruning away what no longer serves you. I am here to support you as you hone your green thumb for personal growth. It takes work and sometimes is uncomfortable. But thankfully discomfort leads to growth. Together, we'll meet that discomfort in a different way to cultivate an inner landscape where you can flourish.
Hi! I'm Kevin- your mindful therapist for the LGBTQIA+ community, trauma survivors, and those battling the twists and turns of anxiety and depression. I think of therapy like gardening. Taming the overgrowth of ignored emotions, tending to the roots of your experiences, and pruning away what no longer serves you. I am here to support you as you hone your green thumb for personal growth. It takes work and sometimes is uncomfortable. But thankfully discomfort leads to growth. Together, we'll meet that discomfort in a different way to cultivate an inner landscape where you can flourish.
(615) 492-2712 View (615) 492-2712
Photo of Taylor Renwick, BSW, MSSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Taylor Renwick
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
My special interests include pleasure mentoring, kink, ethical non-monogamy, polyamorous relationships, trans and non-binary care, religious trauma, anti-racism, and vicarious trauma.
I know how vital a welcoming, compassionate environment is to your safety, genuine growth, and wellbeing. I'm so excited to stand alongside you as we begin that journey! You may be trans or nonbinary, ethically nonmonogamous, polyamorous, queer, gay, questioning, in the kink community, or marginalized by society in other ways. Regardless, you deserve to feel seen, heard, and accepted as we work through whatever may be present in your life.
My special interests include pleasure mentoring, kink, ethical non-monogamy, polyamorous relationships, trans and non-binary care, religious trauma, anti-racism, and vicarious trauma.
I know how vital a welcoming, compassionate environment is to your safety, genuine growth, and wellbeing. I'm so excited to stand alongside you as we begin that journey! You may be trans or nonbinary, ethically nonmonogamous, polyamorous, queer, gay, questioning, in the kink community, or marginalized by society in other ways. Regardless, you deserve to feel seen, heard, and accepted as we work through whatever may be present in your life.
(615) 592-2979 View (615) 592-2979
Photo of Nat Nigro, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nat Nigro
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Whether you are experiencing the impacts of trauma, or are wanting to learn how to better navigate the world as a queer or neurodivergent person, we can work towards tangible change in your life.
I believe we all have the innate capacity for healing and it is not something you need to do alone. As a non-binary autistic therapist, I specialize in working with late identified autistics and ADHDers along with queer/ trans people of all ages. I am affirming of all neurodivergence, including experiences beyond ADHD and Autism like OCD, plurality, and BPD. I also often work with non-monogamous and polyamorous people and take a sex positive approach to therapy. Reaching out for support can be hard and you deserve to feel seen, valued, and understood in who you are and your story.
Whether you are experiencing the impacts of trauma, or are wanting to learn how to better navigate the world as a queer or neurodivergent person, we can work towards tangible change in your life.
I believe we all have the innate capacity for healing and it is not something you need to do alone. As a non-binary autistic therapist, I specialize in working with late identified autistics and ADHDers along with queer/ trans people of all ages. I am affirming of all neurodivergence, including experiences beyond ADHD and Autism like OCD, plurality, and BPD. I also often work with non-monogamous and polyamorous people and take a sex positive approach to therapy. Reaching out for support can be hard and you deserve to feel seen, valued, and understood in who you are and your story.
(629) 276-5278 View (629) 276-5278
Photo of Lee Owen, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lee Owen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37207
I have a special interest in working with young adults around identity exploration, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community.
Being a person is hard. Whether for a lifelong struggle or a short-term issue, we all need space to breathe and talk it through sometimes. Whatever your reason, whatever your goals, I'm here as a companion on your journey. My goal is to help you connect to your values and live authentically.
I have a special interest in working with young adults around identity exploration, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community.
Being a person is hard. Whether for a lifelong struggle or a short-term issue, we all need space to breathe and talk it through sometimes. Whatever your reason, whatever your goals, I'm here as a companion on your journey. My goal is to help you connect to your values and live authentically.
(615) 861-1933 View (615) 861-1933
Photo of Payton Lindner, MMFT
Payton Lindner
MMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
Yo! I’m Payton, I’m an openly queer + nonbinary human and my pronoun are they/she! I think that humans are the coolest. My philosophy as an Identity Doula + Healing Practitioner takes into consideration that every human and every situation is different, thus unique tools and approaches are required for unique people and things. Sessions with me will go beyond standard talk therapy, as it is my personal and professional opinion that humans often heal with art, movement, visuals, embodiment, activities, and music better than they do with standard talk therapy alone. (Try to think of this as fun and exciting, not scary or awkward!)
Yo! I’m Payton, I’m an openly queer + nonbinary human and my pronoun are they/she! I think that humans are the coolest. My philosophy as an Identity Doula + Healing Practitioner takes into consideration that every human and every situation is different, thus unique tools and approaches are required for unique people and things. Sessions with me will go beyond standard talk therapy, as it is my personal and professional opinion that humans often heal with art, movement, visuals, embodiment, activities, and music better than they do with standard talk therapy alone. (Try to think of this as fun and exciting, not scary or awkward!)
(629) 230-3151 View (629) 230-3151
Photo of Nora Honeyman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nora Honeyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216
I specialize in individual counseling for those struggling with anxiety, relationship, work, and school stress, negative thoughts, mood disorders, and LGBTQ+ concerns including gender and sexual identity. My goal is to make the therapeutic process as stress-free as possible for my clients by providing an open, welcoming environment where you can express yourself freely while we work together to meet your needs.
I specialize in individual counseling for those struggling with anxiety, relationship, work, and school stress, negative thoughts, mood disorders, and LGBTQ+ concerns including gender and sexual identity. My goal is to make the therapeutic process as stress-free as possible for my clients by providing an open, welcoming environment where you can express yourself freely while we work together to meet your needs.
(615) 685-4515 View (615) 685-4515
Photo of Michael Stover, LMSW
Michael Stover
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37228
Many people, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community, often feel lonely and struggle with depression and anxiety. It's important to know that you don't have to go through this alone. With time, effort, and support, things can get better.
Many people, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community, often feel lonely and struggle with depression and anxiety. It's important to know that you don't have to go through this alone. With time, effort, and support, things can get better.
(615) 205-7791 View (615) 205-7791
Photo of Travis Munnerlyn, PsyD, Psychologist
Travis Munnerlyn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37206  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with adults and couples related to LGBTQ+ identity, gay couples, PTSD, anxiety, life transition, and other relationship issues.
For many of us, childhood was mentally and emotionally confusing. And we may find that these experiences impact us even now — they season how we relate to others, how we interact with our worlds, and even how we conceive of our future. Making sense of all of this requires a respect for very human needs like safety, stability, and positive and corrective emotional experiences. Therapy is often the single most helpful and effective intervention to those ends—it certainly has been healing for me. I hold a deep respect and honor for those who are able to show up to do this work.
I have extensive experience working with adults and couples related to LGBTQ+ identity, gay couples, PTSD, anxiety, life transition, and other relationship issues.
For many of us, childhood was mentally and emotionally confusing. And we may find that these experiences impact us even now — they season how we relate to others, how we interact with our worlds, and even how we conceive of our future. Making sense of all of this requires a respect for very human needs like safety, stability, and positive and corrective emotional experiences. Therapy is often the single most helpful and effective intervention to those ends—it certainly has been healing for me. I hold a deep respect and honor for those who are able to show up to do this work.
(314) 350-4891 View (314) 350-4891
Photo of Charles B Cobble, BCD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charles B Cobble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BCD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212  (Online Only)
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2016 and have worked with diverse populations, including active duty military, veterans in transition, & the LGBTQ+ community.
I’m glad to see you are considering therapy to overcome your challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, stress, or another other issue, I can help you find relief and overcome obstacles on your path to success. I’m compassionate and supportive. Our conversation is confidential in the comfort of your own home.
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2016 and have worked with diverse populations, including active duty military, veterans in transition, & the LGBTQ+ community.
I’m glad to see you are considering therapy to overcome your challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, stress, or another other issue, I can help you find relief and overcome obstacles on your path to success. I’m compassionate and supportive. Our conversation is confidential in the comfort of your own home.
(615) 703-4090 View (615) 703-4090
Photo of Glynn Griggs, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Glynn Griggs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
OTHER SPECIALTIES: LGBTQ Affirmative Counseling, exploring Spirituality vs.
As an artist, I understand the life-long vitality of artistic growth, & the importance of creativity to one’s perception of the world. As a professional counselor, I treat issues unique to artists, performers and other creative individuals. I encourage my clients to work with the highs/lows of the creative process, integrate them, and channel them appropriately through their art. Let’s explore ways to balance intense periods of creative work with healthy self-care and self-compassion. See more on my website on ways I can support you on your artist’s journey.
OTHER SPECIALTIES: LGBTQ Affirmative Counseling, exploring Spirituality vs.
As an artist, I understand the life-long vitality of artistic growth, & the importance of creativity to one’s perception of the world. As a professional counselor, I treat issues unique to artists, performers and other creative individuals. I encourage my clients to work with the highs/lows of the creative process, integrate them, and channel them appropriately through their art. Let’s explore ways to balance intense periods of creative work with healthy self-care and self-compassion. See more on my website on ways I can support you on your artist’s journey.
(615) 560-7143 View (615) 560-7143
Photo of Adrian Kunemund, PhD, Psychologist
Adrian Kunemund
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37219
I am a lesbian and feminist centered thereapist.
As queer women, we often have more challenges to navigate than others and sometimes we need extra support. I can provide you with that support. I work with queer women who are struggling with feelings of stress, relationships concerns, dating, anxiety, parenting, marriage, depression, & frustration. I also help people struggling with ADHD and with grief/loss. I am a doctoral level psychologist & have graduated & trained in programs accredited by the American Psychological Association.
I am a lesbian and feminist centered thereapist.
As queer women, we often have more challenges to navigate than others and sometimes we need extra support. I can provide you with that support. I work with queer women who are struggling with feelings of stress, relationships concerns, dating, anxiety, parenting, marriage, depression, & frustration. I also help people struggling with ADHD and with grief/loss. I am a doctoral level psychologist & have graduated & trained in programs accredited by the American Psychological Association.
(720) 637-8459 View (720) 637-8459
Photo of Rebecca Delaney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Delaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37201  (Online Only)
I have experience helping individuals living with substance misuse, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ specific issues, negative self-esteem, stress, and life transitions.
Do you feel like you are in a rut? Are you struggling to overcome a habit? Do you want to make improvements but do not know where to start? Are you struggling with negative thoughts about yourself? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping people overcome barriers and achieve goals that are important to them! I provide telehealth therapy for those in the state of TN. I strive to provide a safe and accepting environment for you to overcome barriers and achieve goals that are important to you.
I have experience helping individuals living with substance misuse, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ specific issues, negative self-esteem, stress, and life transitions.
Do you feel like you are in a rut? Are you struggling to overcome a habit? Do you want to make improvements but do not know where to start? Are you struggling with negative thoughts about yourself? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping people overcome barriers and achieve goals that are important to them! I provide telehealth therapy for those in the state of TN. I strive to provide a safe and accepting environment for you to overcome barriers and achieve goals that are important to you.
(865) 345-2968 View (865) 345-2968
Photo of Stephen Lockridge, MA, MTS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephen Lockridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MTS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220
I particularly like working with those in the LGBTQ+ community dealing with issues of cultural or religious judgment and the potentially resulting shame.
Each of us has our own unique path and challenges to navigate in this life. Many of us struggle to find the freedom to live out our truth and to follow our hearts because we are bound by societal and/or familial conditioning and programming that pressures us to fit into a certain mold that may not align with who we are and what we find to be true. This binding can often show up as anxiety or unhappiness, and many of us have trauma that continues to live in our bodies influencing the ways in which we react to what we encounter in life. We can work together to understand and alleviate what is keeping you from being more free.
I particularly like working with those in the LGBTQ+ community dealing with issues of cultural or religious judgment and the potentially resulting shame.
Each of us has our own unique path and challenges to navigate in this life. Many of us struggle to find the freedom to live out our truth and to follow our hearts because we are bound by societal and/or familial conditioning and programming that pressures us to fit into a certain mold that may not align with who we are and what we find to be true. This binding can often show up as anxiety or unhappiness, and many of us have trauma that continues to live in our bodies influencing the ways in which we react to what we encounter in life. We can work together to understand and alleviate what is keeping you from being more free.
(615) 398-6645 View (615) 398-6645
Photo of Mary Cullen Servodidio, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Cullen Servodidio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I am an LGBTQ+ affirming, actively anti-racist, and social justice focused therapist.
I am so pumped that you're here! I know what it feels like to seek out a new therapist, and I don’t take for granted the courage and vulnerability it takes for you to share these parts of yourself. My goal is to create a pathway to help you reveal your authentic self. We do this by examining what’s been conditioned and impressed upon you while also identifying what feels true and authentic to who you are. I approach this work first and foremost with compassion, curiosity, open-mindedness, and authenticity. I believe there is room for pain and humor in therapy. I promise to keep it real with you and to share some laughs, too!
I am an LGBTQ+ affirming, actively anti-racist, and social justice focused therapist.
I am so pumped that you're here! I know what it feels like to seek out a new therapist, and I don’t take for granted the courage and vulnerability it takes for you to share these parts of yourself. My goal is to create a pathway to help you reveal your authentic self. We do this by examining what’s been conditioned and impressed upon you while also identifying what feels true and authentic to who you are. I approach this work first and foremost with compassion, curiosity, open-mindedness, and authenticity. I believe there is room for pain and humor in therapy. I promise to keep it real with you and to share some laughs, too!
(615) 257-3156 View (615) 257-3156
Photo of Leah E. Newman, LPC, MHSP, MEd, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah E. Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216  (Online Only)
LGBTQ+. Gender. Sexuality. Alternative Spirituality. Adult ADHD Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Kink. Sex Work. Vegan. Life Coaching. Tarot. Reiki. Virtual. 420 Friendly. Anxiety. Depression. . BPD. Couples. Meditation. I specialize in gender transitions, LGBTQ+ living, alternative spiritualities, and mindfulness. Don't worry, our straight friends are always welcome too! Find out more at www.LeahNewmanCounseling.com
LGBTQ+. Gender. Sexuality. Alternative Spirituality. Adult ADHD Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Kink. Sex Work. Vegan. Life Coaching. Tarot. Reiki. Virtual. 420 Friendly. Anxiety. Depression. . BPD. Couples. Meditation. I specialize in gender transitions, LGBTQ+ living, alternative spiritualities, and mindfulness. Don't worry, our straight friends are always welcome too! Find out more at www.LeahNewmanCounseling.com
(615) 745-3862 View (615) 745-3862
Photo of Dr. Sarah E. Bollinger, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Sarah E. Bollinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209  (Online Only)
My hope is that our work together can reignite those things that bring you the most joy and life. Often this process involves working through the impact of loss, pain, or trauma in a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship. I work extensively with artists, musicians, womxn and queer folx, and much of my experience centers around religious trauma and spiritual wounding. My work is informed by humanistic and existential perspectives of psychotherapy, and I often incorporate the use of mindfulness techniques. I am also trained in a number of evidence-based clinical treatments including IFS, ACT, and EMDR.
My hope is that our work together can reignite those things that bring you the most joy and life. Often this process involves working through the impact of loss, pain, or trauma in a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship. I work extensively with artists, musicians, womxn and queer folx, and much of my experience centers around religious trauma and spiritual wounding. My work is informed by humanistic and existential perspectives of psychotherapy, and I often incorporate the use of mindfulness techniques. I am also trained in a number of evidence-based clinical treatments including IFS, ACT, and EMDR.
(615) 815-1568 View (615) 815-1568
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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.