LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in McKinney, TX

Photo of Mackenzie Ulam, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in McKinney, TX
Mackenzie Ulam
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
As a queer therapist, I understand what it is like to meet someone new and not know if you will be accepted.
I’m Mackenzie, a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate at Sharp Wellness supervised by Dr. Lisa Grubbs, Ph.D., LPC-S. I like to think of myself as your greatest ally, someone who will get down in the mud with you and help you pull yourself out of it. I help adolescents and adults navigate our unpredictable world and learn how to love themselves in the process. While I have experience working with clients of a variety of ages and backgrounds, I am particularly passionate about providing LGBTQIA+ affirmative care and supporting those with high levels of anxiety.
As a queer therapist, I understand what it is like to meet someone new and not know if you will be accepted.
I’m Mackenzie, a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate at Sharp Wellness supervised by Dr. Lisa Grubbs, Ph.D., LPC-S. I like to think of myself as your greatest ally, someone who will get down in the mud with you and help you pull yourself out of it. I help adolescents and adults navigate our unpredictable world and learn how to love themselves in the process. While I have experience working with clients of a variety of ages and backgrounds, I am particularly passionate about providing LGBTQIA+ affirmative care and supporting those with high levels of anxiety.
(469) 382-4883 View (469) 382-4883
Photo of Stefan Waltke, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Stefan Waltke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Seeking mental health is an important step towards general well-being. Just as you would not be expected to simply “tough out” a broken leg, for instance, neither should you do the same for depression, anxiety, or even more importantly, finding yourself at a crossroads and uncertain what to do next. I am here to lend a non-judgmental ear, and to help you move through difficult aspects of your life. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, uncertainty about paths forward in life, and addiction for adults, and with a particular interest in the LGBTQ population.
Seeking mental health is an important step towards general well-being. Just as you would not be expected to simply “tough out” a broken leg, for instance, neither should you do the same for depression, anxiety, or even more importantly, finding yourself at a crossroads and uncertain what to do next. I am here to lend a non-judgmental ear, and to help you move through difficult aspects of your life. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, uncertainty about paths forward in life, and addiction for adults, and with a particular interest in the LGBTQ population.
(972) 798-4079 View (972) 798-4079
Photo of Brittany Woolard, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Brittany Woolard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Hello! I work with children, teens, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, grief, low self-esteem, body image, life transitions, gender identity, and sexuality. I utilize affirming counseling practices with all clients, and especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families.
Hello! I work with children, teens, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, grief, low self-esteem, body image, life transitions, gender identity, and sexuality. I utilize affirming counseling practices with all clients, and especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families.
(903) 269-9107 View (903) 269-9107
Photo of Megan Novak in McKinney, TX
Megan Novak
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Finding the right fitting counselor, someone you click with can be challenging. Break away from the usual counseling approach with a neurodivergent, person-centered, and LGBTQ-affirming counselor. With a blend of professional expertise and personal understanding, I specialize in autistic adults, ADHD, trauma, and dissociation (DID/OSDD). Learn to navigate your goals, responsibilities, and relationships with newfound confidence and joy as we celebrate your authentic self and empower you to advocate for your needs.
Finding the right fitting counselor, someone you click with can be challenging. Break away from the usual counseling approach with a neurodivergent, person-centered, and LGBTQ-affirming counselor. With a blend of professional expertise and personal understanding, I specialize in autistic adults, ADHD, trauma, and dissociation (DID/OSDD). Learn to navigate your goals, responsibilities, and relationships with newfound confidence and joy as we celebrate your authentic self and empower you to advocate for your needs.
(469) 871-7206 View (469) 871-7206
Photo of Kristie Keeling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Kristie Keeling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC-A
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
Kristie always works LGBTQ, low self-esteem, Anger outbursts, depression, anxiety, and general life changes.
Kristie Keeling is supervised by Kacey Vasquez, LPC-S. Earning a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus in play therapy from the University of North Texas at Dallas. Upon graduation, she was inducted into the International Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society. With over 15 years of experience working one on one with children prior to graduate school, Kristie developed a passion early on for child development and play therapy. Specializing in kids from the ages of two to sixteen with learning and developmental disabilities such as ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia and Dyscalculia.
Kristie always works LGBTQ, low self-esteem, Anger outbursts, depression, anxiety, and general life changes.
Kristie Keeling is supervised by Kacey Vasquez, LPC-S. Earning a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus in play therapy from the University of North Texas at Dallas. Upon graduation, she was inducted into the International Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society. With over 15 years of experience working one on one with children prior to graduate school, Kristie developed a passion early on for child development and play therapy. Specializing in kids from the ages of two to sixteen with learning and developmental disabilities such as ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia and Dyscalculia.
(214) 571-7908 View (214) 571-7908
Photo of Mica Dow, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Mica Dow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
Mica has worked with at-risk youth for over 8 years. She has lived in Texas most of her life and received her Master's degree in Counseling and Development from Texas Woman's University. Mica has a passion for working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, substance abuse, relationship issues, and trauma. She also enjoys working with the LGBTQ population and minorities. Mica believes that building a healthy relationship with her clients is the foundation for successful therapy.
Mica has worked with at-risk youth for over 8 years. She has lived in Texas most of her life and received her Master's degree in Counseling and Development from Texas Woman's University. Mica has a passion for working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, substance abuse, relationship issues, and trauma. She also enjoys working with the LGBTQ population and minorities. Mica believes that building a healthy relationship with her clients is the foundation for successful therapy.
(214) 483-1399 View (214) 483-1399
Photo of Hayley Lastovica, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Hayley Lastovica
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
My passion as a therapist is supporting young adults in navigating their lives & mental health. I help with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, substance use, relationships, & life transitions. My specialties are complex trauma & working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I try to bring practicality & humor to my sessions while creating a safe & inviting space. I will also challenge you to go deeper. I want us to explore what has brought you to therapy instead of sticking to the surface. We will work together to empower you to understand patterns of behavior, let go of what no longer serves you, & cultivate your strengths.
My passion as a therapist is supporting young adults in navigating their lives & mental health. I help with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, substance use, relationships, & life transitions. My specialties are complex trauma & working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I try to bring practicality & humor to my sessions while creating a safe & inviting space. I will also challenge you to go deeper. I want us to explore what has brought you to therapy instead of sticking to the surface. We will work together to empower you to understand patterns of behavior, let go of what no longer serves you, & cultivate your strengths.
(469) 564-5682 View (469) 564-5682
Photo of Jennifer Sandlin, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in McKinney, TX
Jennifer Sandlin
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Jennifer Sandlin provides a safe non-judgmental space for all clients, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community and adults with ADHD, to explore the concerns that bring them to therapy. She works with clients to create a therapeutic alliance where they can feel comfortable processing trauma. She is passionate about removing barriers to mental health care and normalizing treatment instead of silence.
Jennifer Sandlin provides a safe non-judgmental space for all clients, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community and adults with ADHD, to explore the concerns that bring them to therapy. She works with clients to create a therapeutic alliance where they can feel comfortable processing trauma. She is passionate about removing barriers to mental health care and normalizing treatment instead of silence.
(972) 236-7500 View (972) 236-7500
Photo of Scott D Altamirano, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072  (Online Only)
I work through a lens of attachment theory, which is highly focused on how we make bonds and relationships; I identify as gay, Mexican-American, and ex-military; I play Dungeons and Dragons, board games, and do stand-up comedy; lastly, I bring directness, homework assignments, and a heavy dose of dark humor to sessions!.
Accepting clients Apr 2024. I help couples work their way through crisis events by helping them find their feet amist the chaos. My role is to help couples have difficult conversations. With my background is in probation/parole therapy, I bring strong elements of fairness, repair, and rehabilitation to couples who have faced injuries. Some topics I have strong experience in are: infidelity, bisexuality, addiction, codependency, anger management, emotional availability, parenting approach, and lack of sexual intimacy.
I work through a lens of attachment theory, which is highly focused on how we make bonds and relationships; I identify as gay, Mexican-American, and ex-military; I play Dungeons and Dragons, board games, and do stand-up comedy; lastly, I bring directness, homework assignments, and a heavy dose of dark humor to sessions!.
Accepting clients Apr 2024. I help couples work their way through crisis events by helping them find their feet amist the chaos. My role is to help couples have difficult conversations. With my background is in probation/parole therapy, I bring strong elements of fairness, repair, and rehabilitation to couples who have faced injuries. Some topics I have strong experience in are: infidelity, bisexuality, addiction, codependency, anger management, emotional availability, parenting approach, and lack of sexual intimacy.
(469) 472-5167 View (469) 472-5167
Photo of Scott D Altamirano, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072
Accepting clients Apr 2024. I help gay men - from the newly gay to the seasoned queen - navigate and understand topics related to dating monogamously, polyamory, sexual anxiety, fetishes, understanding Grindr, Sniffies, and bathhouses, drugs/alcohol/food/sex as coping, body insecurities, masculinity, developing self esteem, hobbies, and the most importantly - the friends we made along the way.
Accepting clients Apr 2024. I help gay men - from the newly gay to the seasoned queen - navigate and understand topics related to dating monogamously, polyamory, sexual anxiety, fetishes, understanding Grindr, Sniffies, and bathhouses, drugs/alcohol/food/sex as coping, body insecurities, masculinity, developing self esteem, hobbies, and the most importantly - the friends we made along the way.
(281) 915-2147 View (281) 915-2147
Photo of Scott Altamirano, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Scott Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072  (Online Only)
I work through a lens of attachment theory, which is highly focused on how we make bonds and relationships; I identify as gay, Mexican-American, and ex-military; I play Dungeons and Dragons, board games, and do stand-up comedy; lastly, I bring directness, homework assignments, and a heavy dose of dark humor to sessions!.
Accepting clients Apr 2024. Without judgment, I help clients overcome addictions to alcohol, weed, sex, food, and hard drugs by helping them face the very difficult triggers behind the addictions itself (such as unaddressed depression, trauma, and self esteem, etc; I particularly work with sexual addictions). This approach can be very emotionally difficult, so I recommend only clients who are ready for major life changes apply.
I work through a lens of attachment theory, which is highly focused on how we make bonds and relationships; I identify as gay, Mexican-American, and ex-military; I play Dungeons and Dragons, board games, and do stand-up comedy; lastly, I bring directness, homework assignments, and a heavy dose of dark humor to sessions!.
Accepting clients Apr 2024. Without judgment, I help clients overcome addictions to alcohol, weed, sex, food, and hard drugs by helping them face the very difficult triggers behind the addictions itself (such as unaddressed depression, trauma, and self esteem, etc; I particularly work with sexual addictions). This approach can be very emotionally difficult, so I recommend only clients who are ready for major life changes apply.
(512) 890-3603 View (512) 890-3603
Photo of Scott Altamirano, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Scott Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072  (Online Only)
I work through a lens of attachment theory, which is highly focused on how we make bonds and relationships; I identify as gay, Mexican-American, and ex-military; I play Dungeons and Dragons, board games, and do stand-up comedy; lastly, I bring directness, homework assignments, and a heavy dose of dark humor to sessions!.
Accepting clients Apr 2024. I help clients have happier and more fulfilling lives by overcoming their anxieties to create happy and healthy relationships. Let me help you learn to invest in yourself and your overall wellbeing through habit building, dating, socializing, and improving our overall self esteem!
I work through a lens of attachment theory, which is highly focused on how we make bonds and relationships; I identify as gay, Mexican-American, and ex-military; I play Dungeons and Dragons, board games, and do stand-up comedy; lastly, I bring directness, homework assignments, and a heavy dose of dark humor to sessions!.
Accepting clients Apr 2024. I help clients have happier and more fulfilling lives by overcoming their anxieties to create happy and healthy relationships. Let me help you learn to invest in yourself and your overall wellbeing through habit building, dating, socializing, and improving our overall self esteem!
(323) 433-6354 View (323) 433-6354
Photo of Shannon LaDawn McGaugh, Pre-Licensed Professional in McKinney, TX
Shannon LaDawn McGaugh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
I specialize in the following: depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, LGBT, Addictions, marriage and family, and all of the mental disabilities.
Namaste.. I acknowledge the divine in me and I look forward to meeting the divine in you. I have been in this field for over 13 years and enjoy every new pathway that you may bring to my life. We can research new pathways together.. Life is a very difficult challenge for all of us..may we take haste in exploring the more pleasant aspects that life offers to each of us. No matter what you maybe facing in life believe that within you is the power to overcome or make changes .. I am trained in many lines of counseling and will not turn anyone away who is willing to seek deeper in their soul with direction to transform their life.
I specialize in the following: depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, LGBT, Addictions, marriage and family, and all of the mental disabilities.
Namaste.. I acknowledge the divine in me and I look forward to meeting the divine in you. I have been in this field for over 13 years and enjoy every new pathway that you may bring to my life. We can research new pathways together.. Life is a very difficult challenge for all of us..may we take haste in exploring the more pleasant aspects that life offers to each of us. No matter what you maybe facing in life believe that within you is the power to overcome or make changes .. I am trained in many lines of counseling and will not turn anyone away who is willing to seek deeper in their soul with direction to transform their life.
(469) 871-8082 View (469) 871-8082
Photo of Dr. Desiree L. Stephens, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Dr. Desiree L. Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, TH LMHC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
I pride myself in multicultural counseling, my allyship with the LGBTQ+ community, and helping the neurodivergent.
Children often do not have the words to express what they are thinking or feeling. Traditional talk therapy alone is rarely successful in helping children process difficult life situations. I help children overcome anxiety, depression, and other challenges. I also assist parents in building strong, open relationships with their children. If your child is going through anxiety, sadness, behavior problems, social issues, or life changes (divorce, loss of a loved one, etc.) I am happy to walk along side them in their journey. In addition to working with children, I also see teens and adults.
I pride myself in multicultural counseling, my allyship with the LGBTQ+ community, and helping the neurodivergent.
Children often do not have the words to express what they are thinking or feeling. Traditional talk therapy alone is rarely successful in helping children process difficult life situations. I help children overcome anxiety, depression, and other challenges. I also assist parents in building strong, open relationships with their children. If your child is going through anxiety, sadness, behavior problems, social issues, or life changes (divorce, loss of a loved one, etc.) I am happy to walk along side them in their journey. In addition to working with children, I also see teens and adults.
(469) 904-1439 View (469) 904-1439
Photo of Nancy G Millico, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Nancy G Millico, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I have an extensive background working with children, troubled teens and their parents, as well as Gay, Lesbian and Transexual individuals.
Therapy can be very helpful in addressing problems you may be having in your life. If you struggle with relationship problems, decision making, depression, anxiety, self esteem, impluse control, trauma, substance abuse, grief, addiction or life transitions; I can provide a neutral non-judgmental space to explore and resolve these issues. Many people believe they should be able to solve problems on their own and seek help often waiting until the situation has grown unmanageable. However, early interventions and proactive actions tend to lesson the impact of painful experiences, allowing you to move past problems more easily and quickly.
I have an extensive background working with children, troubled teens and their parents, as well as Gay, Lesbian and Transexual individuals.
Therapy can be very helpful in addressing problems you may be having in your life. If you struggle with relationship problems, decision making, depression, anxiety, self esteem, impluse control, trauma, substance abuse, grief, addiction or life transitions; I can provide a neutral non-judgmental space to explore and resolve these issues. Many people believe they should be able to solve problems on their own and seek help often waiting until the situation has grown unmanageable. However, early interventions and proactive actions tend to lesson the impact of painful experiences, allowing you to move past problems more easily and quickly.
(805) 322-8715 View (805) 322-8715
Photo of Patricia Whynot, LPC Intern in McKinney, TX
Patricia Whynot
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I also work with clients with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, substance abuse, suicidal ideations, LGBTQIA+.
Mental health is a critical component of our overall health, and we are most often aware of this during times of struggle or transition. While these experiences may feel overwhelming and at times even painful, you no longer have to face these trials alone. You and I will join this journey together and work to achieve the more satisfying, meaningful, and mentally healthy life that you were meant to live.
I also work with clients with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, substance abuse, suicidal ideations, LGBTQIA+.
Mental health is a critical component of our overall health, and we are most often aware of this during times of struggle or transition. While these experiences may feel overwhelming and at times even painful, you no longer have to face these trials alone. You and I will join this journey together and work to achieve the more satisfying, meaningful, and mentally healthy life that you were meant to live.
(469) 712-5481 View (469) 712-5481
Photo of Makayla Kunz, LPC Intern in McKinney, TX
Makayla Kunz
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, with degrees from Houston Baptist University and Texas A&M University. I have experience working with clients in both private practice and treatment center settings, specifically to address: addiction (gambling, sex and love, and chemical dependency) ● trauma ● anxiety ● depression ● identity exploration (including LGBTQ+ identity exploration) ● suicidality ● adoption ● parent coaching ● mood disorders ● personality disorders ● somatic experiencing ● life adjustments
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, with degrees from Houston Baptist University and Texas A&M University. I have experience working with clients in both private practice and treatment center settings, specifically to address: addiction (gambling, sex and love, and chemical dependency) ● trauma ● anxiety ● depression ● identity exploration (including LGBTQ+ identity exploration) ● suicidality ● adoption ● parent coaching ● mood disorders ● personality disorders ● somatic experiencing ● life adjustments
(972) 845-4079 View (972) 845-4079
Photo of Deidre Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Deidre Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
The therapies or treatments offered include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Grief Support Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, Solution-Focused Therapy, and I am LGBTQ+ Allied.
Hello and welcome to my page. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist serving clients ages 12+ with concerns such as mood disorders, trauma, addiction/recovery, relationship issues, women's issues, coping, grief, and loss.
The therapies or treatments offered include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Grief Support Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, Solution-Focused Therapy, and I am LGBTQ+ Allied.
Hello and welcome to my page. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist serving clients ages 12+ with concerns such as mood disorders, trauma, addiction/recovery, relationship issues, women's issues, coping, grief, and loss.
(972) 433-5557 View (972) 433-5557
Photo of Jodi McKee, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Jodi McKee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, ATR-BC, MBA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
My lived experience and training have helped me learn how to support the LGBTQIA+ community, healthcare workers, single parents, neurodiverse clients, as well as trauma survivors.
Are you interested in self-development and personal growth? Are you tired of repeating dysfunctional patterns in your life? Are you ready to become the main character of your story? I'd love to walk with you on this journey and help remove any obstacles in your way. I have over 20 years of experience helping children, teens, adults, and families find mental wellness. I am a Board-Certified Registered Art Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, and I believe in the power of art therapy as an efficient and effective tool for healing.
My lived experience and training have helped me learn how to support the LGBTQIA+ community, healthcare workers, single parents, neurodiverse clients, as well as trauma survivors.
Are you interested in self-development and personal growth? Are you tired of repeating dysfunctional patterns in your life? Are you ready to become the main character of your story? I'd love to walk with you on this journey and help remove any obstacles in your way. I have over 20 years of experience helping children, teens, adults, and families find mental wellness. I am a Board-Certified Registered Art Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, and I believe in the power of art therapy as an efficient and effective tool for healing.
(972) 845-8942 View (972) 845-8942
Photo of Laura Auldridge, LPC, CCTP, EMDR-Trained, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Laura Auldridge, LPC, CCTP, EMDR-Trained
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
First off, you are more than enough! What you are experiencing is tough, but so are you! Now that, that’s been said here’s a tidbit about who I am. My name is Laura Auldridge and I am currently accepting new clients in my downtown, Mckinney Town Square office! I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the K-State, and a master’s degree in counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. If you are seeking therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, religious trauma, intimacy/relationship issues, LGBTQIA+ community, personality/mood disorders or need help for your teen/kiddo I am your girl!
First off, you are more than enough! What you are experiencing is tough, but so are you! Now that, that’s been said here’s a tidbit about who I am. My name is Laura Auldridge and I am currently accepting new clients in my downtown, Mckinney Town Square office! I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the K-State, and a master’s degree in counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary. If you are seeking therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, religious trauma, intimacy/relationship issues, LGBTQIA+ community, personality/mood disorders or need help for your teen/kiddo I am your girl!
(469) 840-4253 View (469) 840-4253
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.