LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in New Tazewell, TN

Photo of Chelsea Monroe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Chelsea Monroe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW
Verified Verified
New Tazewell, TN 37825
Hi! I am a Certified Social Worker with experience in a variety of populations and disorders. My specialty consists of primarily Substance Use treatment in individuals with co-occurring disorders. I am best able to help my clients based on my ability to individualize their treatment with realistic goals and coping skills. My approach is often strengths- based, with the utilization of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-centered approach, and Motivational Interviewing to assist clients with finding the tools to navigate the issue at hand.
Hi! I am a Certified Social Worker with experience in a variety of populations and disorders. My specialty consists of primarily Substance Use treatment in individuals with co-occurring disorders. I am best able to help my clients based on my ability to individualize their treatment with realistic goals and coping skills. My approach is often strengths- based, with the utilization of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-centered approach, and Motivational Interviewing to assist clients with finding the tools to navigate the issue at hand.
(423) 482-9877 View (423) 482-9877

Online Therapists

Photo of Michelle Proctor, Counselor in New Tazewell, TN
Michelle Proctor
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
I enjoy and have experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community, especially trans youth and adults.
As a queer therapist with ADHD, I understand the struggles of navigating unwelcoming and ill-equipped systems. Many people who grow up with undiagnosed ADHD experience unique challenges. Often, this involves a constant battle of self-blame for not being able to effortlessly accomplish what seems to come naturally to others. The emotional distress created by this leaves people feeling confused and misunderstood. I help people to: better understand their diagnosis; work to reduce and eliminate years of shame; and develop functional, realistic skills beyond just using a planner.
I enjoy and have experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community, especially trans youth and adults.
As a queer therapist with ADHD, I understand the struggles of navigating unwelcoming and ill-equipped systems. Many people who grow up with undiagnosed ADHD experience unique challenges. Often, this involves a constant battle of self-blame for not being able to effortlessly accomplish what seems to come naturally to others. The emotional distress created by this leaves people feeling confused and misunderstood. I help people to: better understand their diagnosis; work to reduce and eliminate years of shame; and develop functional, realistic skills beyond just using a planner.
(865) 737-2915 View (865) 737-2915
Photo of Shannon Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Shannon Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
We are a Queer-owned, LGBTQ+, QBIPOC, body positive, kink positive, & chronic illness safe & affirming practice. We provide a safe & protected space for our LGBTQ+ community members & their families. In compliance with state law, we DO NOT provide referrals for trans/non-binary gender affirming medical interventions for minors. Shannon has almost 20 years experience in trauma & queer mental health for all ages, family dynamics, & religious structures, is a Certified Emergency Responder & Public Safety Clinician for Queer LEOs, EMS, 911 Operators, Fire Fighters & Vets. Laila specializes in working with new mothers & postpartum issues
We are a Queer-owned, LGBTQ+, QBIPOC, body positive, kink positive, & chronic illness safe & affirming practice. We provide a safe & protected space for our LGBTQ+ community members & their families. In compliance with state law, we DO NOT provide referrals for trans/non-binary gender affirming medical interventions for minors. Shannon has almost 20 years experience in trauma & queer mental health for all ages, family dynamics, & religious structures, is a Certified Emergency Responder & Public Safety Clinician for Queer LEOs, EMS, 911 Operators, Fire Fighters & Vets. Laila specializes in working with new mothers & postpartum issues
(865) 590-8003 View (865) 590-8003
Photo of Hayden Chaple, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Hayden Chaple
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
Proud LGBTQIA+ Self-identified Community Member.
Life often presents us with challenges that outdo our ability to effectively cope. In such moments, seeking support becomes essential. Whether you're seeking assistance in navigating through life transitions, family/friend/academic/career stressors, major life decisions, overcoming trauma, or dealing with other distressing experiences, I'm here to lend a helping hand. If you find yourself battling daily depression or anxiety, grief, or feeling completely overwhelmed to the point where functioning seems near impossible, I seek to offer my support, compassion, and guidance. Together, let's work towards the positive future you deserve.
Proud LGBTQIA+ Self-identified Community Member.
Life often presents us with challenges that outdo our ability to effectively cope. In such moments, seeking support becomes essential. Whether you're seeking assistance in navigating through life transitions, family/friend/academic/career stressors, major life decisions, overcoming trauma, or dealing with other distressing experiences, I'm here to lend a helping hand. If you find yourself battling daily depression or anxiety, grief, or feeling completely overwhelmed to the point where functioning seems near impossible, I seek to offer my support, compassion, and guidance. Together, let's work towards the positive future you deserve.
(865) 448-5091 View (865) 448-5091
Photo of Keilan Rickard, Psychologist in New Tazewell, TN
Keilan Rickard
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Talbott, TN 37877  (Online Only)
While I am a generalist, I have expertise in working with college students as well as folks from the queer and trans community.
I have been a licensed psychologist for more than a decade. I offer individual therapy (via telehealth only) to treat a wide range of concerns. If you are located in Tennessee, North Carolina, or Georgia, contact me for a free consultation.
While I am a generalist, I have expertise in working with college students as well as folks from the queer and trans community.
I have been a licensed psychologist for more than a decade. I offer individual therapy (via telehealth only) to treat a wide range of concerns. If you are located in Tennessee, North Carolina, or Georgia, contact me for a free consultation.
(404) 738-6072 View (404) 738-6072
Photo of Lauren Green, Pre-Licensed Professional in New Tazewell, TN
Lauren Green
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC, T-LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
I will work with clients through most issues, and specific areas of interest include: religious trauma, sexual trauma, PTSD, LGBTQ+ issues, life transitions, and mood disorders.
I consider it one of my greatest privileges to partner with people as they navigate their stories. I know from personal experience that therapy can be invaluable when processing change, emotional turmoil, and questions about self. While I often utilize concepts from CBT, DBT, and other theories, I most often draw from Narrative Theory and take a Person-Centered approach in my work with clients. I am trained in TF-CBT and EMDR, and my professional history includes over four years working exclusively with survivors of sexual trauma.
I will work with clients through most issues, and specific areas of interest include: religious trauma, sexual trauma, PTSD, LGBTQ+ issues, life transitions, and mood disorders.
I consider it one of my greatest privileges to partner with people as they navigate their stories. I know from personal experience that therapy can be invaluable when processing change, emotional turmoil, and questions about self. While I often utilize concepts from CBT, DBT, and other theories, I most often draw from Narrative Theory and take a Person-Centered approach in my work with clients. I am trained in TF-CBT and EMDR, and my professional history includes over four years working exclusively with survivors of sexual trauma.
(865) 344-6830 View (865) 344-6830
Photo of Logan Mahan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Logan Mahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
I work with men dealing with addiction, trauma, LGBTQ+ identity concerns, grief from fractured relationships, confusion around sex and intimacy, and anxiety and existential confusion about their faith & sexuality.
Visit my website for real-time availability and to request an appointment. Maybe you can’t do this anymore. You’re stronger than most have ever had to be, but inside you swing between anger and helpless shame, if you let yourself feel anything at all. You keep doing it over and over again—maybe drinking, drugs, sex, rage, self-harm—and you hate it...but on the other hand, hasn't it been more reliable than anything or anyone else? You ask into that inner darkness, "Why am I like this?" But all you get in reply is a desperation to leave it all behind, and then a familiar fear: maybe this is all I deserve or am ever going to get.
I work with men dealing with addiction, trauma, LGBTQ+ identity concerns, grief from fractured relationships, confusion around sex and intimacy, and anxiety and existential confusion about their faith & sexuality.
Visit my website for real-time availability and to request an appointment. Maybe you can’t do this anymore. You’re stronger than most have ever had to be, but inside you swing between anger and helpless shame, if you let yourself feel anything at all. You keep doing it over and over again—maybe drinking, drugs, sex, rage, self-harm—and you hate it...but on the other hand, hasn't it been more reliable than anything or anyone else? You ask into that inner darkness, "Why am I like this?" But all you get in reply is a desperation to leave it all behind, and then a familiar fear: maybe this is all I deserve or am ever going to get.
(865) 337-8396 View (865) 337-8396
Photo of Transgender Dysphoria Diagnosis - WPATH Letters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Transgender Dysphoria Diagnosis - WPATH Letters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37902  (Online Only)
Your transition ally is waiting at Queer Talk Therapy. Specializing in gender identity, they offer thorough assessments and readiness letters, rooted in an informed consent model, simplifying your path to medical transition. Your $175 investment goes beyond an assessment—it's a comprehensive, WPATH-compliant roadmap, inclusive of letter updates and ongoing support. More than an assessment, it’s an invaluable bridge to your next chapter. Simply visit our WEBSITE to schedule and get started today.
Your transition ally is waiting at Queer Talk Therapy. Specializing in gender identity, they offer thorough assessments and readiness letters, rooted in an informed consent model, simplifying your path to medical transition. Your $175 investment goes beyond an assessment—it's a comprehensive, WPATH-compliant roadmap, inclusive of letter updates and ongoing support. More than an assessment, it’s an invaluable bridge to your next chapter. Simply visit our WEBSITE to schedule and get started today.
Photo of Rebecca Delaney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Rebecca Delaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (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 Marci S Burroughs, Psychologist in New Tazewell, TN
Marci S Burroughs
Psychologist, PhD, CST
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping couples/intimate partners with communication and intimacy issues including conflict management, decrease in intimacy, mismatched libidos, the impact of societal and religious messages on sex and sexuality and the impacts of trauma on the individual and the couple. I also work with couples and individuals that are struggling with sexual dysfunctions such as ED, PE, DE and genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder. I provide a non-judgmental environment for people who identify as LGBTQ+, poly, nonmonogamous and kink to explore their concerns within the context of their lifestyle.
I specialize in helping couples/intimate partners with communication and intimacy issues including conflict management, decrease in intimacy, mismatched libidos, the impact of societal and religious messages on sex and sexuality and the impacts of trauma on the individual and the couple. I also work with couples and individuals that are struggling with sexual dysfunctions such as ED, PE, DE and genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder. I provide a non-judgmental environment for people who identify as LGBTQ+, poly, nonmonogamous and kink to explore their concerns within the context of their lifestyle.
(865) 213-7517 View (865) 213-7517
Photo of Lizzie Nichols, Pre-Licensed Professional in New Tazewell, TN
Lizzie Nichols
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC, MHSP(T)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
Navigating the world today can be extremely challenging and overwhelming. It’s so common to experience frustration, anger, and shame as a result of the day to day challenges that come from just simply being human. Throw in substance abuse, gender or sexual identity challenges, or relationship issues, and it's easy to feel consumed by it all with no idea of where to turn. As a therapist, I am passionate about having a space where any and all can come to seek refuge. I specialize in working with substance abuse issues, sexual dysfunction, sexual trauma, LGBTQ+ matters, polyamorous couples, infidelity, and life transitions.
Navigating the world today can be extremely challenging and overwhelming. It’s so common to experience frustration, anger, and shame as a result of the day to day challenges that come from just simply being human. Throw in substance abuse, gender or sexual identity challenges, or relationship issues, and it's easy to feel consumed by it all with no idea of where to turn. As a therapist, I am passionate about having a space where any and all can come to seek refuge. I specialize in working with substance abuse issues, sexual dysfunction, sexual trauma, LGBTQ+ matters, polyamorous couples, infidelity, and life transitions.
(865) 830-3167 View (865) 830-3167
Photo of Aleana Young-Hilsinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Aleana Young-Hilsinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922  (Online Only)
Aleana Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 14 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about working with women, LGBTQIA+, and trauma victims. She primarily works with adults that are dealing with mental health issues, life stressors, and traumatic experiences. Aleana specializes in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, and trauma-related disorders. She has a lot of experience working with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and PTSD. It is her mission to empower those that have been oppressed by violence and prejudice.
Aleana Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 14 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about working with women, LGBTQIA+, and trauma victims. She primarily works with adults that are dealing with mental health issues, life stressors, and traumatic experiences. Aleana specializes in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, and trauma-related disorders. She has a lot of experience working with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and PTSD. It is her mission to empower those that have been oppressed by violence and prejudice.
(865) 419-9266 View (865) 419-9266
Photo of Whitewood Counseling & Consultation, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Tazewell, TN
Whitewood Counseling & Consultation
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, MHSP, AS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37604
Working with the LGBT+ community (LGBT+ Affirming / Kink Allied), Veterans, and Adolescents.
Contact me (email preferred) if you are seeking counseling services ... or ... looking for someone to provide supervision for LPC licensure.
Working with the LGBT+ community (LGBT+ Affirming / Kink Allied), Veterans, and Adolescents.
Contact me (email preferred) if you are seeking counseling services ... or ... looking for someone to provide supervision for LPC licensure.
(423) 225-8536 View (423) 225-8536
Photo of Dr. Chandra Feltman, Psychologist in New Tazewell, TN
Dr. Chandra Feltman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
 I am LGBTQ+ affirming and aim for my office to be a place where all clients feel safe and connected.
Being human is hard. It’s messy. And it can feel totally overwhelming at times. However, when we learn to give voice to these inner experiences, they start to become more manageable. We begin to realize the feelings and symptoms we experience aren’t random, they’re telling us something. As your therapist, I can help you learn how to better connect with, understand, and express painful emotions, while also providing tools to help you cope. Through it all, I will offer you compassion, warmth, empathy - maybe even a well timed curse word if necessary. I’ll bring my whole authentic self to the therapy room and invite you to do the same.
 I am LGBTQ+ affirming and aim for my office to be a place where all clients feel safe and connected.
Being human is hard. It’s messy. And it can feel totally overwhelming at times. However, when we learn to give voice to these inner experiences, they start to become more manageable. We begin to realize the feelings and symptoms we experience aren’t random, they’re telling us something. As your therapist, I can help you learn how to better connect with, understand, and express painful emotions, while also providing tools to help you cope. Through it all, I will offer you compassion, warmth, empathy - maybe even a well timed curse word if necessary. I’ll bring my whole authentic self to the therapy room and invite you to do the same.
(865) 412-4138 View (865) 412-4138
Photo of Lyons View Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Tazewell, TN
Lyons View Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Dr. Smelcer has over 15 years of clinical experience specializing in treating depression, anxiety, addiction disorders including behavioral addictions, trauma, grief, sexual identity concerns, premarital, life transitions, ADHD, LGBTQ and childhood disorders. Dr. Smelcer is passionate about helping clients gain insight and build from their strengths to make changes that improve their overall functioning.
Dr. Smelcer has over 15 years of clinical experience specializing in treating depression, anxiety, addiction disorders including behavioral addictions, trauma, grief, sexual identity concerns, premarital, life transitions, ADHD, LGBTQ and childhood disorders. Dr. Smelcer is passionate about helping clients gain insight and build from their strengths to make changes that improve their overall functioning.
(865) 344-6076 View (865) 344-6076
Photo of Amanda Simms, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Tazewell, TN
Amanda Simms
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rockwood, TN 37854  (Online Only)
Immediate openings available! Are you feeling stuck each day? Have lots of goals and dreams but feel as if you aren't moving forward? Or maybe you are just feeling overwhelmed trying to meet the needs of everyone, while wondering when you will have time to take care of your needs. Perhaps you identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and don't feel seen, heard, accepted, or supported. I see you and I want you to know you are not alone! If you are looking for a way to move towards your highest level of wellness and increase the love you have for yourself, I hope you'll give me the opportunity to walk with you on your journey!
Immediate openings available! Are you feeling stuck each day? Have lots of goals and dreams but feel as if you aren't moving forward? Or maybe you are just feeling overwhelmed trying to meet the needs of everyone, while wondering when you will have time to take care of your needs. Perhaps you identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and don't feel seen, heard, accepted, or supported. I see you and I want you to know you are not alone! If you are looking for a way to move towards your highest level of wellness and increase the love you have for yourself, I hope you'll give me the opportunity to walk with you on your journey!
(865) 432-0436 View (865) 432-0436
Photo of Jocelyn Ivy, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Tazewell, TN
Jocelyn Ivy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
I have always been interested in understanding the world from other people's points of view. I view my job as a therapist is to understand your story and how your worldview informs the way you react to life stressors. My goal is to help you utilize your own strengths and insight to feel calm, centered, and content in a world that often isn't. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and the LGBTQ/alternative lifestyle community.
I have always been interested in understanding the world from other people's points of view. I view my job as a therapist is to understand your story and how your worldview informs the way you react to life stressors. My goal is to help you utilize your own strengths and insight to feel calm, centered, and content in a world that often isn't. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and the LGBTQ/alternative lifestyle community.
(865) 344-2326 View (865) 344-2326
Photo of Shelby Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Shelby Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
As a queer-identifying and affirming healer, I recognize the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
Owning our story and re-writing our narrative can be incredibly empowering. You are allowed and encouraged to be human with all its complexities in my office. Whether you find growth in verbal processing, journaling, or would like to use art as a therapeutic tool, I enjoy using my skills as an abstract thinker and creative clinician to empower you to reach your goals. I believe in creating a safe and nurturing space where you can tell your story and find healing. We will work collaboratively, building a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and open communication.
As a queer-identifying and affirming healer, I recognize the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
Owning our story and re-writing our narrative can be incredibly empowering. You are allowed and encouraged to be human with all its complexities in my office. Whether you find growth in verbal processing, journaling, or would like to use art as a therapeutic tool, I enjoy using my skills as an abstract thinker and creative clinician to empower you to reach your goals. I believe in creating a safe and nurturing space where you can tell your story and find healing. We will work collaboratively, building a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and open communication.
(865) 830-6336 View (865) 830-6336
Photo of Claudia Hirsemann Lcsw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Claudia Hirsemann Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kodak, TN 37764
Immediate openings online or in person. I treat severe trauma, complex/developmental trauma, toxic relationship trauma, wayward and misfit people, substance abuse, and am LGBTQIA+ affirming. I work with people 16 years and older. Whether you are dealing with a recent or life long issue your experiences have a great impact on your life. Often we are given mixed or untrue messages & labels that follow us throughout life. I want to help you differentiate who YOU really are from who you have been told you "should be." Together we can find your Authentic You.
Immediate openings online or in person. I treat severe trauma, complex/developmental trauma, toxic relationship trauma, wayward and misfit people, substance abuse, and am LGBTQIA+ affirming. I work with people 16 years and older. Whether you are dealing with a recent or life long issue your experiences have a great impact on your life. Often we are given mixed or untrue messages & labels that follow us throughout life. I want to help you differentiate who YOU really are from who you have been told you "should be." Together we can find your Authentic You.
(865) 328-7975 View (865) 328-7975
Photo of Marci M Breedlove, Psychologist in New Tazewell, TN
Marci M Breedlove
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
I work to provide an LGBTQIA-affirming and anti-racist space that feels welcoming and safe.
Everyone wants to be themselves, to be “seen,” and to be valued for their uniqueness. We’re wired to need safe and affirming relationships and connection with others. When we’re struggling, it’s usually because something has gotten in the way of these things - not because we’re somehow "defective" or "flawed." I value authenticity, and strive to help clients feel and honor emotions that may seem “wrong" or unacceptable.
I work to provide an LGBTQIA-affirming and anti-racist space that feels welcoming and safe.
Everyone wants to be themselves, to be “seen,” and to be valued for their uniqueness. We’re wired to need safe and affirming relationships and connection with others. When we’re struggling, it’s usually because something has gotten in the way of these things - not because we’re somehow "defective" or "flawed." I value authenticity, and strive to help clients feel and honor emotions that may seem “wrong" or unacceptable.
(865) 217-0296 View (865) 217-0296
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.