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 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.
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 that same thing 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 questions like "Why am I like this?" and "What if they find out?" But all you get in reply is a desperation to leave it all behind, quickly countered by a familiar fear: maybe this is the best 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.
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 that same thing 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 questions like "Why am I like this?" and "What if they find out?" But all you get in reply is a desperation to leave it all behind, quickly countered by a familiar fear: maybe this is the best 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 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 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 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 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 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 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, 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, LGBTQ+ matters, polyamorous couples, infidelity, and life transitions.
(865) 830-3167 View (865) 830-3167
Photo of Melissa Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Melissa Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
With over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages, I offer a nonjudgmental space for growth and healing. My specialties include eating disorders, body image, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions (college, divorce, LGBTQ+), and parent/child relationships. I use different therapy approaches such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, compassion, as well as a non-traditional therapy called Acceptance and Integration Training (AAIT is trademarked and founded by Melanie McGhee, LCSW.).
With over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages, I offer a nonjudgmental space for growth and healing. My specialties include eating disorders, body image, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions (college, divorce, LGBTQ+), and parent/child relationships. I use different therapy approaches such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, compassion, as well as a non-traditional therapy called Acceptance and Integration Training (AAIT is trademarked and founded by Melanie McGhee, LCSW.).
(865) 551-6152 View (865) 551-6152
Photo of Maggie Klotz, Psychologist in New Tazewell, TN
Maggie Klotz
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909
I am an LGBTQ+ affirming provider and consider my office to be a safe place for all.
Accepting New Clients! To have someone open their heart in therapy and trust me with it, is truly an honor. Therapy can be hard. Often times people share things with me they haven’t shared with anyone else. Because of this, I believe the relationship between client and therapist is the most important factor in therapy and what I focus on building first with you. Moreover, I take an integrative approach to therapy, conceptualizing from psychodynamic and interpersonal theories while utilizing interventions from EFT, DBT, CBT and interpersonal theories. All of my work is grounded in multicultural and strength-based views.
I am an LGBTQ+ affirming provider and consider my office to be a safe place for all.
Accepting New Clients! To have someone open their heart in therapy and trust me with it, is truly an honor. Therapy can be hard. Often times people share things with me they haven’t shared with anyone else. Because of this, I believe the relationship between client and therapist is the most important factor in therapy and what I focus on building first with you. Moreover, I take an integrative approach to therapy, conceptualizing from psychodynamic and interpersonal theories while utilizing interventions from EFT, DBT, CBT and interpersonal theories. All of my work is grounded in multicultural and strength-based views.
(865) 205-6286 View (865) 205-6286
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 Sarah McCray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Sarah McCray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Sarah assists clients who are experiencing a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Sarah graduated from East Tennessee State University with her Bachelor's degree in Social Work and her Master's degree in Social Work. She specializes in work with adolescents, emerging adults, and the adult population. Sarah is trained as a Brainspotting Practitioner. She places a large emphasis on building trust and rapport with her clients. Sarah is a firm believer in meeting her clients where they are in the present moment. Sarah sees her clients as the unique, multidimensional individuals that they are. She uses the Person-In-Environment perspective with her clients.
Sarah assists clients who are experiencing a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Sarah graduated from East Tennessee State University with her Bachelor's degree in Social Work and her Master's degree in Social Work. She specializes in work with adolescents, emerging adults, and the adult population. Sarah is trained as a Brainspotting Practitioner. She places a large emphasis on building trust and rapport with her clients. Sarah is a firm believer in meeting her clients where they are in the present moment. Sarah sees her clients as the unique, multidimensional individuals that they are. She uses the Person-In-Environment perspective with her clients.
(423) 556-3032 View (423) 556-3032
Photo of Korrie Xavier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Korrie Xavier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37950  (Online Only)
I am knowledgeable and comfortable working with veterans, people who have experienced the carceral system, and I am LGBTQ+, kink, and polyam affirming.
I view therapy (and the world) through an intersectional, social justice, trauma- and attachment-informed lens. I believe that a diagnosis does not define who people are, have been, or will become and I prefer to work collaboratively to determine what works best in regard to the therapeutic process. My approach is informed by a variety of philosophies and models including Internal Family Systems, somatic practices, and Buddhist/mindfulness philosophy. I provide psychoeducation and support for building resilience, learning effective communication, understanding emotions, and being fully present and embodied.
I am knowledgeable and comfortable working with veterans, people who have experienced the carceral system, and I am LGBTQ+, kink, and polyam affirming.
I view therapy (and the world) through an intersectional, social justice, trauma- and attachment-informed lens. I believe that a diagnosis does not define who people are, have been, or will become and I prefer to work collaboratively to determine what works best in regard to the therapeutic process. My approach is informed by a variety of philosophies and models including Internal Family Systems, somatic practices, and Buddhist/mindfulness philosophy. I provide psychoeducation and support for building resilience, learning effective communication, understanding emotions, and being fully present and embodied.
(865) 484-3242 View (865) 484-3242
Photo of W. Wyatt Lee Stephens, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Tazewell, TN
W. Wyatt Lee Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Powell, TN 37849
I specialize in Autism, ADHD, and LGBTQIA+ populations and have personal experience in gender transition care and support.
I understand how frustrating it is to be forgetful, feel scattered, to be constantly exhausted, and feel unproductive. My clients struggle with processing issues, and struggle to live in a world that is not designed for those that are neuro-divergent, and I am able to help turn those feelings around!
I specialize in Autism, ADHD, and LGBTQIA+ populations and have personal experience in gender transition care and support.
I understand how frustrating it is to be forgetful, feel scattered, to be constantly exhausted, and feel unproductive. My clients struggle with processing issues, and struggle to live in a world that is not designed for those that are neuro-divergent, and I am able to help turn those feelings around!
(865) 328-1941 View (865) 328-1941
Photo of Alena Porter, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Tazewell, TN
Alena Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37902  (Online Only)
I have presented at conferences on Sex After Sexual Abuse, Normalizing BDSM, and on LGBTQ+ clients.
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you been avoiding talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Some people need a safe place to explore their sexual or gender identity. If you have been waiting for someone to be able to help you understand sexual thoughts, behaviors, and preferences then email me today
I have presented at conferences on Sex After Sexual Abuse, Normalizing BDSM, and on LGBTQ+ clients.
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you been avoiding talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Some people need a safe place to explore their sexual or gender identity. If you have been waiting for someone to be able to help you understand sexual thoughts, behaviors, and preferences then email me today
(865) 672-0819 View (865) 672-0819
Photo of Dawn Fortich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Dawn Fortich, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
The process of initiating therapy can be scary. Trusting someone you don't know isn't always easy. The truth is that life is difficult. We have all experienced sadness, loss, fear, and loneliness. Therapy can help find clarity and strength. My experience is as diverse as those I serve such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, & LGBT issues, marital counseling, and PTSD. I enjoy my work and feel blessed to be a tool for God to help those who are hurting or in need of understanding. My greatest reward comes from empowering people with the confidence and tools to make a positive change.
The process of initiating therapy can be scary. Trusting someone you don't know isn't always easy. The truth is that life is difficult. We have all experienced sadness, loss, fear, and loneliness. Therapy can help find clarity and strength. My experience is as diverse as those I serve such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, & LGBT issues, marital counseling, and PTSD. I enjoy my work and feel blessed to be a tool for God to help those who are hurting or in need of understanding. My greatest reward comes from empowering people with the confidence and tools to make a positive change.
(865) 498-5001 View (865) 498-5001
Photo of Laila Sherrod, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Tazewell, TN
Laila Sherrod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
Life is a balance between holding on and letting go" - Rumi - Do you often feel like you are living in a world where no one really gets what you are experiencing? Do you need a safe, open, non-judgmental space to talk through life's challenges? I am committed to providing a safe space to the people of Tennessee. It is challenging to live in a region where you fear your views, thoughts, and philosophies don't align with the people around you. I am a queer and LGBTQ+ safe and affirming space. Meet Cosmo! He is the pup (old dog) in the last pic. He will be in session unless otherwise requested.
Life is a balance between holding on and letting go" - Rumi - Do you often feel like you are living in a world where no one really gets what you are experiencing? Do you need a safe, open, non-judgmental space to talk through life's challenges? I am committed to providing a safe space to the people of Tennessee. It is challenging to live in a region where you fear your views, thoughts, and philosophies don't align with the people around you. I am a queer and LGBTQ+ safe and affirming space. Meet Cosmo! He is the pup (old dog) in the last pic. He will be in session unless otherwise requested.
(865) 674-9047 View (865) 674-9047
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

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.