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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melanie Wert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Montclair, VA
Melanie Wert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dumfries, VA 22025
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel stuck and uncertain about the future, desiring to become the best version of yourself? I specialize in utilizing a strengths-based approach to treatment providing freedom from negative self-talk and past trauma. Anxiety, depression, life transition, and day to day stress can be hard to manage. Feelings of isolation and loneliness can become cumbersome and create a sense of hopelessness and helplessness. I utilize integrative strategies and a holistic model to develop self-acceptance and freedom from painful thoughts and feelings.
Do you feel stuck and uncertain about the future, desiring to become the best version of yourself? I specialize in utilizing a strengths-based approach to treatment providing freedom from negative self-talk and past trauma. Anxiety, depression, life transition, and day to day stress can be hard to manage. Feelings of isolation and loneliness can become cumbersome and create a sense of hopelessness and helplessness. I utilize integrative strategies and a holistic model to develop self-acceptance and freedom from painful thoughts and feelings.
(540) 306-4477 View (540) 306-4477
Photo of Indelible Changes, LLC (Nick Williams), Licensed Professional Counselor in Montclair, VA
Indelible Changes, LLC (Nick Williams)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Dumfries, VA 22025
Our mission is "To empower individuals, couples, and families to break free from the chains that bind them, in order to create present and multi-generational changes that last forever." Indelible means that which cannot be undone; permanent." Too often, individuals, couples, and families cycle through services and treatment providers, only to continue suffering and feeling as if no one understands and/or no one can help. This can be traumatic. Often, issues can run deep and last for generations. Indelible Changes was born out of the desire to help individuals, couples, and families break free from the chains that bind them.
Our mission is "To empower individuals, couples, and families to break free from the chains that bind them, in order to create present and multi-generational changes that last forever." Indelible means that which cannot be undone; permanent." Too often, individuals, couples, and families cycle through services and treatment providers, only to continue suffering and feeling as if no one understands and/or no one can help. This can be traumatic. Often, issues can run deep and last for generations. Indelible Changes was born out of the desire to help individuals, couples, and families break free from the chains that bind them.
(571) 458-1989 View (571) 458-1989
Photo of Steven Milgrim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Montclair, VA
Steven Milgrim
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dumfries, VA 22025
In mental health since 1987, I have been in private practice since 2000. I offer competence and caring in a supportive, safe, inclusive and confidential environment. My varied experience offers me insight into a wide range of areas. I custom craft a growth and learning experience for each individual, family and intimate relationship. Special training in the areas of substance abuse and couples counseling allows me to work with challenging and difficult issues with skill and caring. I promise to provide each client with the maximum potential for growth and healing. Please call me at (703) 499-9889 to speak to me directly.
In mental health since 1987, I have been in private practice since 2000. I offer competence and caring in a supportive, safe, inclusive and confidential environment. My varied experience offers me insight into a wide range of areas. I custom craft a growth and learning experience for each individual, family and intimate relationship. Special training in the areas of substance abuse and couples counseling allows me to work with challenging and difficult issues with skill and caring. I promise to provide each client with the maximum potential for growth and healing. Please call me at (703) 499-9889 to speak to me directly.
(540) 315-3448 View (540) 315-3448

Online Therapists

Photo of Christine M Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montclair, VA
Christine M Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23229
I have worked extensively with families of and individuals who are trans and non-binary, as well as people who identify as poly, kink, pansexual, and/or LGB.
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
I have worked extensively with families of and individuals who are trans and non-binary, as well as people who identify as poly, kink, pansexual, and/or LGB.
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
(804) 259-2076 View (804) 259-2076
Photo of Christopher Boler, Resident in Counseling in Montclair, VA
Christopher Boler
Resident in Counseling, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
My specialties include LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, attachment work, people living with HIV, gender exploration, sex therapy, trauma, life adjustments, depression/anxiety, perfectionism and other mental health concerns.
Are some of your past coping skills not having the same effect? In our sessions, we will focus on being present with our mind and body. Through this gained awareness, we will co-construct meaningful experiences. Sometimes we may need the space or support to tune into our needs, body and its reactions. Therapy can be a place to learn and cultivate that. I use an integrative approach to counseling and therapy. This way, I tailor make our treatment to meet your goals. I'm trained in LGBTQ+ affirming counseling, CBT, Person Centered, Gestalt and Narrative Therapies.
My specialties include LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, attachment work, people living with HIV, gender exploration, sex therapy, trauma, life adjustments, depression/anxiety, perfectionism and other mental health concerns.
Are some of your past coping skills not having the same effect? In our sessions, we will focus on being present with our mind and body. Through this gained awareness, we will co-construct meaningful experiences. Sometimes we may need the space or support to tune into our needs, body and its reactions. Therapy can be a place to learn and cultivate that. I use an integrative approach to counseling and therapy. This way, I tailor make our treatment to meet your goals. I'm trained in LGBTQ+ affirming counseling, CBT, Person Centered, Gestalt and Narrative Therapies.
(571) 418-6281 View (571) 418-6281
Photo of Jacob Caflisch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Montclair, VA
Jacob Caflisch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Glen Allen, VA 23060
Jacob is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, and is passionate about assisting queer individuals, couples, and adjacent family members.
Jacob Caflisch is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Specializing in Anxiety disorders, OCD, phobias, depression, and other challenges related to the different phases of life for individuals 14 and up. Jacob takes a person-centered approach while utilizing a combination of elements of CBT, ACT, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Jacob is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, and is passionate about assisting queer individuals, couples, and adjacent family members.
Jacob Caflisch is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Specializing in Anxiety disorders, OCD, phobias, depression, and other challenges related to the different phases of life for individuals 14 and up. Jacob takes a person-centered approach while utilizing a combination of elements of CBT, ACT, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing.
(804) 369-8756 View (804) 369-8756
Photo of Dr. Peter T. Luehring-Jones, Psychologist in Montclair, VA
Dr. Peter T. Luehring-Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
As a gay man, I enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ community and take pride in providing care that affirms both gender and sexuality.
I provide affirming, nonjudgmental, and person-centered therapy to help you make positive and sustainable change in your life. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, the lasting effects of trauma, or the challenges of everyday life? Do you feel stuck in place, surrounded by obstacles, and unsure of how to move forward? Together, we'll explore the patterns of thought and behavior that have contributed to your current distress and then chart a path toward making changes that bring greater understanding, empowerment, and peace into your life.
As a gay man, I enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ community and take pride in providing care that affirms both gender and sexuality.
I provide affirming, nonjudgmental, and person-centered therapy to help you make positive and sustainable change in your life. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, the lasting effects of trauma, or the challenges of everyday life? Do you feel stuck in place, surrounded by obstacles, and unsure of how to move forward? Together, we'll explore the patterns of thought and behavior that have contributed to your current distress and then chart a path toward making changes that bring greater understanding, empowerment, and peace into your life.
(571) 351-1669 View (571) 351-1669
Photo of Philip W Meilman, Psychologist in Montclair, VA
Philip W Meilman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22207  (Online Only)
I like to work with adults, young adults, and late adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal concerns, LGBTQ+ issues, and/or substance abuse difficulties, often using an action-oriented and cognitive-behavioral (CBT) approach. Of necessity, the approach will vary somewhat depending on the need. A licensed clinical psychologist, I have been in practice for 46 years, and previously served as director for the Counseling and Psychiatric Service (CAPS) at Georgetown University for 15 years. Currently I am providing services virtually, by teletherapy, using a secure video platform.
I like to work with adults, young adults, and late adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal concerns, LGBTQ+ issues, and/or substance abuse difficulties, often using an action-oriented and cognitive-behavioral (CBT) approach. Of necessity, the approach will vary somewhat depending on the need. A licensed clinical psychologist, I have been in practice for 46 years, and previously served as director for the Counseling and Psychiatric Service (CAPS) at Georgetown University for 15 years. Currently I am providing services virtually, by teletherapy, using a secure video platform.
(607) 358-7129 View (607) 358-7129
Photo of Connor McLaren, Pre-Licensed Professional in Montclair, VA
Connor McLaren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
I bring my lived experience to my work with queer and trans youth & adults.
Are you struggling? Starting to think that depression or anxiety will never stop? I’m passionate about supporting folx who transcend “norms” through their unique experience. I'm especially interested in supporting LGBTQ+ and disability-identified folks. My approach is warm, curious, trauma informed, & relationship-centered. I view my role as a psychotherapist as a co-explorer – I walk alongside you as you navigate your authentic experience of this world. Everyone’s entitled to strut their full peacock. Part of life is figuring out what that means to you.
I bring my lived experience to my work with queer and trans youth & adults.
Are you struggling? Starting to think that depression or anxiety will never stop? I’m passionate about supporting folx who transcend “norms” through their unique experience. I'm especially interested in supporting LGBTQ+ and disability-identified folks. My approach is warm, curious, trauma informed, & relationship-centered. I view my role as a psychotherapist as a co-explorer – I walk alongside you as you navigate your authentic experience of this world. Everyone’s entitled to strut their full peacock. Part of life is figuring out what that means to you.
(571) 520-5323 View (571) 520-5323
Photo of Dr. Nadia Alsamadi, Psychologist in Montclair, VA
Dr. Nadia Alsamadi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
As a queer bicultural Palestinian American, I have experience working with LGBTQ+, and second generation immigrants.
You may feel constantly distracted from the present moment or like you’re on autopilot. Our minds often hand us thoughts that are distressing and it’s very easy to become wrapped up and stuck in them! I enjoy working with folks to disempower negative thoughts and get back to the things and people that are important to them. Together, we’ll work on developing a more compassionate and non-judgmental understanding of how your relationships, culture, and oppressive experiences have shaped your behaviors. By reclaiming your narrative, we can forge a path towards meaningful change that's rooted in your values.
As a queer bicultural Palestinian American, I have experience working with LGBTQ+, and second generation immigrants.
You may feel constantly distracted from the present moment or like you’re on autopilot. Our minds often hand us thoughts that are distressing and it’s very easy to become wrapped up and stuck in them! I enjoy working with folks to disempower negative thoughts and get back to the things and people that are important to them. Together, we’ll work on developing a more compassionate and non-judgmental understanding of how your relationships, culture, and oppressive experiences have shaped your behaviors. By reclaiming your narrative, we can forge a path towards meaningful change that's rooted in your values.
(703) 936-7191 x717 View (703) 936-7191 x717
Photo of MySpectrum Counseling & Coaching, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montclair, VA
MySpectrum Counseling & Coaching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
North Chesterfield, VA 23236
The specialty areas of the Therapists at MySpectrum include (but are not limited to): children, adolescents, adults (any age); substance use and addiction, LGBTQ (including coming out, identity, etc.
MySpectrum is an outpatient therapy practice located at 707 North Courthouse Road in North Chesterfield, Virginia. We offer outpatient counseling and coaching to any person, on any spectrum. We focus on the Autism Spectrum, Mental Health Spectrum, Substance Use Spectrum, and the Whole Life Spectrum. Our philosophy is that any person, regardless of situation, should have access to skilled Therapists who will truly meet you where you are at in your journey. To that end, each Therapist specializes in certain areas so that we can capture the needs of any person. We serve all of Virginia through Teletherapy.
The specialty areas of the Therapists at MySpectrum include (but are not limited to): children, adolescents, adults (any age); substance use and addiction, LGBTQ (including coming out, identity, etc.
MySpectrum is an outpatient therapy practice located at 707 North Courthouse Road in North Chesterfield, Virginia. We offer outpatient counseling and coaching to any person, on any spectrum. We focus on the Autism Spectrum, Mental Health Spectrum, Substance Use Spectrum, and the Whole Life Spectrum. Our philosophy is that any person, regardless of situation, should have access to skilled Therapists who will truly meet you where you are at in your journey. To that end, each Therapist specializes in certain areas so that we can capture the needs of any person. We serve all of Virginia through Teletherapy.
(804) 424-5754 View (804) 424-5754
Photo of Trevor Dunn, Psychologist in Montclair, VA
Trevor Dunn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203
Dr. Dunn specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ+ concerns, life transitions, relationship/interpersonal concerns, gender affirming treatment evaluations, grief/loss, identity concerns, and multicultural psychology (e.g., gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity). Trained as a counseling psychologist, he provides evidence-based, culturally centered therapy to adults in Washington DC, Virginia, and other PSYPACT states. Using warmth and empathy, he helps clients examine and reflect on their lives, and move in the direction of their goals and values.
Dr. Dunn specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ+ concerns, life transitions, relationship/interpersonal concerns, gender affirming treatment evaluations, grief/loss, identity concerns, and multicultural psychology (e.g., gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity). Trained as a counseling psychologist, he provides evidence-based, culturally centered therapy to adults in Washington DC, Virginia, and other PSYPACT states. Using warmth and empathy, he helps clients examine and reflect on their lives, and move in the direction of their goals and values.
(703) 884-1802 View (703) 884-1802
Photo of Karl Fua, Psychologist in Montclair, VA
Karl Fua
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Life often has its ups and downs. I provide a safe, affirming, compassionate, and non-judgmental space, where we can fully honor your experiences and personhood, and where you can take the steps toward self-exploration, discovery, self-compassion, and growth. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, grief, interpersonal concerns, relationship challenges, and depression. I frequently work with individuals on issues relating to multi-cultural diversity, LGBTQIA+ identities and experiences, and life transitions.
Life often has its ups and downs. I provide a safe, affirming, compassionate, and non-judgmental space, where we can fully honor your experiences and personhood, and where you can take the steps toward self-exploration, discovery, self-compassion, and growth. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, grief, interpersonal concerns, relationship challenges, and depression. I frequently work with individuals on issues relating to multi-cultural diversity, LGBTQIA+ identities and experiences, and life transitions.
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Photo of Casey White, Licensed Professional Counselor in Montclair, VA
Casey White
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Glen Allen, VA 23060
Casey is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, and is passionate about assisting queer individuals and couples in overcoming adversity and pursuing wellness.
Casey White is a Licensed Professional Counselor who uses a collaborative approach to equip clients with the information and tools necessary to grow and create positive change. Casey works with clients aged 12-65 who experience social and generalized anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, trauma, and many other areas.
Casey is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, and is passionate about assisting queer individuals and couples in overcoming adversity and pursuing wellness.
Casey White is a Licensed Professional Counselor who uses a collaborative approach to equip clients with the information and tools necessary to grow and create positive change. Casey works with clients aged 12-65 who experience social and generalized anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, trauma, and many other areas.
(804) 410-5154 View (804) 410-5154
Photo of Shannon Graves, Licensed Professional Counselor in Montclair, VA
Shannon Graves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LIMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046  (Online Only)
My expertise is in working with the LGBTQ+ community, adults who live with addiction, anxiety, trauma, family-of-origin and boundary-setting exploration.
Do you often feel anxious or negative toward yourself? Do you want to create better relationships or feel more confident? Are there parts of yourself that you haven't explored and you're nervous about diving in? If any of these experiences resonate with you, I could be a great fit for you. We all need validation and a space to be entirely authentic and unedited, but also to be challenged to dig deeper and grow. I will offer you that space to create a stronger, healthier relationship with yourself. My experience has allowed me to work with a wide variety of therapeutic issues and I am passionate about guiding people toward healing.
My expertise is in working with the LGBTQ+ community, adults who live with addiction, anxiety, trauma, family-of-origin and boundary-setting exploration.
Do you often feel anxious or negative toward yourself? Do you want to create better relationships or feel more confident? Are there parts of yourself that you haven't explored and you're nervous about diving in? If any of these experiences resonate with you, I could be a great fit for you. We all need validation and a space to be entirely authentic and unedited, but also to be challenged to dig deeper and grow. I will offer you that space to create a stronger, healthier relationship with yourself. My experience has allowed me to work with a wide variety of therapeutic issues and I am passionate about guiding people toward healing.
(571) 497-5355 View (571) 497-5355
Photo of Lighthouse Counseling of Fredericksburg, PLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Montclair, VA
Lighthouse Counseling of Fredericksburg, PLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, VA 22408
Lighthouse Counseling specializes in providing quality treatment to gay/lesbian/transgender/gender diverse persons, those whose substance use is causing problems, and those with emotion regulation problems including coping with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Lighthouse Counseling of Fredericksburg, PLC is a group practice committed to working with those who are suffering, marginalized, and feeling like no one understands. So many times, we all struggle to verbalize and contend with emotional difficulties and finding someone to walk that path with you, can be healing and hopeful. We strive to make our practice “A Place to find Hope” using evidence-based therapeutic interventions provided in a compassionate and validating environment.
Lighthouse Counseling specializes in providing quality treatment to gay/lesbian/transgender/gender diverse persons, those whose substance use is causing problems, and those with emotion regulation problems including coping with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Lighthouse Counseling of Fredericksburg, PLC is a group practice committed to working with those who are suffering, marginalized, and feeling like no one understands. So many times, we all struggle to verbalize and contend with emotional difficulties and finding someone to walk that path with you, can be healing and hopeful. We strive to make our practice “A Place to find Hope” using evidence-based therapeutic interventions provided in a compassionate and validating environment.
(540) 469-5033 View (540) 469-5033
Photo of Jackson Caswell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Montclair, VA
Jackson Caswell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23219  (Online Only)
I believe that feeling heard is a crucial step toward mental wellbeing. I prioritize meeting clients where they are and understanding how the world around each person impacts them. This inspires me to create an affirming and encouraging therapeutic environment for clients of any age or background, particularly LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent clients.
I believe that feeling heard is a crucial step toward mental wellbeing. I prioritize meeting clients where they are and understanding how the world around each person impacts them. This inspires me to create an affirming and encouraging therapeutic environment for clients of any age or background, particularly LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent clients.
(804) 587-7366 View (804) 587-7366
Photo of Christina Triantafillou, Licensed Professional Counselor in Montclair, VA
Christina Triantafillou
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230
I have extensive training in LGBTQ+ issues, including the transition process for transgender individuals.
Do you feel like you’re running yourself ragged trying to make everyone else happy? Like you don’t know who you are outside of others’ expectations? I work with people who are struggling with identity in different ways. Some feel like their identity was lost to abuse or to a bigger personality in the house. Others are recovering from losing who they are because of a traumatic experience that seemed to change them forever. Still others do not feel like their true identity is within the body they were born in.
I have extensive training in LGBTQ+ issues, including the transition process for transgender individuals.
Do you feel like you’re running yourself ragged trying to make everyone else happy? Like you don’t know who you are outside of others’ expectations? I work with people who are struggling with identity in different ways. Some feel like their identity was lost to abuse or to a bigger personality in the house. Others are recovering from losing who they are because of a traumatic experience that seemed to change them forever. Still others do not feel like their true identity is within the body they were born in.
(757) 379-8816 View (757) 379-8816
Photo of Sarah Nealy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Montclair, VA
Sarah Nealy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22207
With over 15 years working in the mental health field, Sarah "SC" Nealy has their second Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is the Clinical Director at LGBT+ Counseling Collaborative, a group therapy practice for queer therapists for queer clients and their allies/families. With a person-centered, emotion-focused approach aimed at finding solutions, healing trauma, building resilience, improving interpersonal relationships, connecting the mind and body, and working through triggers and past pain, SC wants their clients to feel heard, understood, and valued in the therapeutic space and in their lives.
With over 15 years working in the mental health field, Sarah "SC" Nealy has their second Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is the Clinical Director at LGBT+ Counseling Collaborative, a group therapy practice for queer therapists for queer clients and their allies/families. With a person-centered, emotion-focused approach aimed at finding solutions, healing trauma, building resilience, improving interpersonal relationships, connecting the mind and body, and working through triggers and past pain, SC wants their clients to feel heard, understood, and valued in the therapeutic space and in their lives.
(703) 688-8812 View (703) 688-8812
Photo of Alison Morogiello, Licensed Professional Counselor in Montclair, VA
Alison Morogiello
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakton, VA 22124
I provide a safe space for all LGBTQIA+ individuals, including gender transition support.
When struggling with anxious thoughts, a difficult past, or any other mental health challenges, it can be overwhelming to begin the journey of therapy. Luckily, the most difficult step toward change is the first one. Once dedicated to the process, we can work together to achieve your personalized goals toward wellness, and positive change in your life. I hope to meet you soon!
I provide a safe space for all LGBTQIA+ individuals, including gender transition support.
When struggling with anxious thoughts, a difficult past, or any other mental health challenges, it can be overwhelming to begin the journey of therapy. Luckily, the most difficult step toward change is the first one. Once dedicated to the process, we can work together to achieve your personalized goals toward wellness, and positive change in your life. I hope to meet you soon!
(703) 755-8200 View (703) 755-8200

See more therapy options for Montclair

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.