Photo of Jen Zegan-Lister, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Jen Zegan-Lister
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23236
Hello! I’m Jen and I specialize in working with the queer community, trauma, and substance use (you do not need to qualify for all or any of these to come see me). If complex trauma and PTS/D symptoms are things you struggle with, I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting. In my office you choose what you’d like to address and what is off limits. This is your space to explore and process what you need and want to. You are the only expert of yourself. I like to meet you where you’re at and explore what is challenging and/or painful. My goal is to help my community heal and find wholeheartedness and acceptance, exactly as you are.
Hello! I’m Jen and I specialize in working with the queer community, trauma, and substance use (you do not need to qualify for all or any of these to come see me). If complex trauma and PTS/D symptoms are things you struggle with, I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting. In my office you choose what you’d like to address and what is off limits. This is your space to explore and process what you need and want to. You are the only expert of yourself. I like to meet you where you’re at and explore what is challenging and/or painful. My goal is to help my community heal and find wholeheartedness and acceptance, exactly as you are.
(804) 538-3113 View (804) 538-3113
Photo of Bobby Salazar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Bobby Salazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTS
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23231
I am also interested in working with LGBTQ issues among teenagers, adolescents, and adults.
I am committed to helping individuals find the strength within themselves and to share that with those most important to them. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, relationship difficulties, or life transitions, I always seek to assist you in finding the most effective way to help you achieve your goals and live a happier life. My orientation is interpersonal, psychodynamic and emotionally focused. I am very active in the therapy.
I am also interested in working with LGBTQ issues among teenagers, adolescents, and adults.
I am committed to helping individuals find the strength within themselves and to share that with those most important to them. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, relationship difficulties, or life transitions, I always seek to assist you in finding the most effective way to help you achieve your goals and live a happier life. My orientation is interpersonal, psychodynamic and emotionally focused. I am very active in the therapy.
(804) 376-9909 View (804) 376-9909
Photo of Dr. Danielle Armour, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Dr. Danielle Armour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23221  (Online Only)
A few things to note: I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, kink-positive & CNM aware.
I specialize in sexual health, intimacy, and relationships, especially the one we have with self. I am passionate about helping you (and yours) enrich your lives—by empowering you to unpack what’s preventing you from fully embracing all of life’s pleasures. I believe that we all have the intrinsic ability to heal ourselves. In my practice, psychotherapy is a journey of self healing, with me as your guide. Connection is one of our most powerful tools, and through connecting with me, together, we will cultivate transformation and uncover the peace that lies within you.
A few things to note: I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, kink-positive & CNM aware.
I specialize in sexual health, intimacy, and relationships, especially the one we have with self. I am passionate about helping you (and yours) enrich your lives—by empowering you to unpack what’s preventing you from fully embracing all of life’s pleasures. I believe that we all have the intrinsic ability to heal ourselves. In my practice, psychotherapy is a journey of self healing, with me as your guide. Connection is one of our most powerful tools, and through connecting with me, together, we will cultivate transformation and uncover the peace that lies within you.
(804) 531-5166 View (804) 531-5166
Photo of Bridget Dunnavant, Psychologist in Richmond, VA
Bridget Dunnavant
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23225
I have special expertise in LGBTQ and gender issues, attachment and couples therapy, fertility and family planning, and end of life concerns and grief.
I offer both individual and couples counseling to adults of all ages, also teaching mindfulness meditation when desired. In addition to ameliorating symptoms, decreasing emotional pain, and helping to solve difficult problems, therapy and meditation can facilitate significant personal growth and increased wellness. My approach is broadly humanistic, meaning we seek together in a safe and secure environment, mutual understanding of you as a whole person, honing your internal "voice" and tapping into your existing strengths. Once we identify who you really are and what is most important to you, the path to bringing your life into alignment becomes clearer.
I have special expertise in LGBTQ and gender issues, attachment and couples therapy, fertility and family planning, and end of life concerns and grief.
I offer both individual and couples counseling to adults of all ages, also teaching mindfulness meditation when desired. In addition to ameliorating symptoms, decreasing emotional pain, and helping to solve difficult problems, therapy and meditation can facilitate significant personal growth and increased wellness. My approach is broadly humanistic, meaning we seek together in a safe and secure environment, mutual understanding of you as a whole person, honing your internal "voice" and tapping into your existing strengths. Once we identify who you really are and what is most important to you, the path to bringing your life into alignment becomes clearer.
(804) 793-8685 View (804) 793-8685
Photo of Eli Marano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Eli Marano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23219  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty are LGBTQIA+ concerns, relationship issues, suicidality, depression, and anxiety/panic.
Beginning therapy can be a difficult, anxiety-provoking, or, possibly, a relieving decision. It is an important step towards healing, and I am excited to begin that journey with you. As a therapist, I believe in meeting you wherever you are at, working collaboratively to establish goals, and finding connection to the process.
My areas of specialty are LGBTQIA+ concerns, relationship issues, suicidality, depression, and anxiety/panic.
Beginning therapy can be a difficult, anxiety-provoking, or, possibly, a relieving decision. It is an important step towards healing, and I am excited to begin that journey with you. As a therapist, I believe in meeting you wherever you are at, working collaboratively to establish goals, and finding connection to the process.
(804) 336-3849 View (804) 336-3849
Photo of Harley Jones, Resident in Counseling in Richmond, VA
Harley Jones
Resident in Counseling, MA, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with a wide range of clients, including young adults navigating adulthood, members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as adults who are seeking to process and cope with difficult or traumatic childhood experiences.
In therapy and beyond, I believe in the power of self-expression to help us grow and experience the best that life has to offer. I see therapy as a place to better get to know ourselves, process experiences and emotions, and hear a different perspective about challenges that we may struggle to see clearly. Therapy can be many things: a place to clarify our identity, strengthen communication skills, change habits, or support mindfulness in our everyday lives.
I enjoy working with a wide range of clients, including young adults navigating adulthood, members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as adults who are seeking to process and cope with difficult or traumatic childhood experiences.
In therapy and beyond, I believe in the power of self-expression to help us grow and experience the best that life has to offer. I see therapy as a place to better get to know ourselves, process experiences and emotions, and hear a different perspective about challenges that we may struggle to see clearly. Therapy can be many things: a place to clarify our identity, strengthen communication skills, change habits, or support mindfulness in our everyday lives.
(540) 845-6940 x1 View (540) 845-6940 x1
Photo of Celeste Kelly, Psychologist in Richmond, VA
Celeste Kelly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23220
I identify as a queer woman, and this informs my passion for providing affirmative care to those within the LGBTQIA community.
I believe everyone can benefit from therapy. Whether you come to explore your identity, your relationships, a life-changing event, or just the feeling that something is “off,” I believe powerful change can happen in the context of a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship. It can be so difficult to seek out a therapist, and I understand you may have had negative experiences with therapy in the past. I appreciate the inner strength that allowed you to reach out and find this page. Together, we can explore patterns in your life to help illuminate your present and future.
I identify as a queer woman, and this informs my passion for providing affirmative care to those within the LGBTQIA community.
I believe everyone can benefit from therapy. Whether you come to explore your identity, your relationships, a life-changing event, or just the feeling that something is “off,” I believe powerful change can happen in the context of a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship. It can be so difficult to seek out a therapist, and I understand you may have had negative experiences with therapy in the past. I appreciate the inner strength that allowed you to reach out and find this page. Together, we can explore patterns in your life to help illuminate your present and future.
(804) 361-8213 View (804) 361-8213
Photo of Vee Fuhriman (Mayhem And Tranquility Therapy), Resident in Counseling in Richmond, VA
Vee Fuhriman (Mayhem And Tranquility Therapy)
Resident in Counseling, MA, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23173
Have you ever wanted a queer, neurodivergent therapist that just understands what you're going through without having to be looked at like you have a third eyeball? I meet you where you are with a trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ safe place with professional and personal knowledge to draw from to help you on your journey to healing from your masking and from your deep wounds. Living doesn't have to be so painful and you don't need to hide in the shadows and from yourself, you can thrive and be the best version of yourself when trauma wounds are healed and you learn to love yourself where you are at today and for who you will be tomorrow.
Have you ever wanted a queer, neurodivergent therapist that just understands what you're going through without having to be looked at like you have a third eyeball? I meet you where you are with a trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ safe place with professional and personal knowledge to draw from to help you on your journey to healing from your masking and from your deep wounds. Living doesn't have to be so painful and you don't need to hide in the shadows and from yourself, you can thrive and be the best version of yourself when trauma wounds are healed and you learn to love yourself where you are at today and for who you will be tomorrow.
(571) 771-1302 View (571) 771-1302
Photo of Elizabeth Paul Therapist At Rivers Of Hope Counseling, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Richmond, VA
Elizabeth Paul Therapist At Rivers Of Hope Counseling
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23222  (Online Only)
She has a variety of client experience with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder Disorder, LGBTQ+ clients, and has worked with clients with various trauma types and ages to include sexual trauma, childhood trauma, and various other mental health needs.
Beth sees her clients truly from the perspective that they are the heart of the work she does. She recognizes that each person is the best representation of who they are and how they connect with themselves and others in their own life. She is a therapist who lends her training, personality, and demeanor to becoming a guide and mentor along the way for her clients. Beth is authentic and genuine as she moves through getting to know her clients and helping them form personal treatment plans during their therapy journey. Her clients often report that they connect with themselves on deeper levels than they initially thought possible.
She has a variety of client experience with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder Disorder, LGBTQ+ clients, and has worked with clients with various trauma types and ages to include sexual trauma, childhood trauma, and various other mental health needs.
Beth sees her clients truly from the perspective that they are the heart of the work she does. She recognizes that each person is the best representation of who they are and how they connect with themselves and others in their own life. She is a therapist who lends her training, personality, and demeanor to becoming a guide and mentor along the way for her clients. Beth is authentic and genuine as she moves through getting to know her clients and helping them form personal treatment plans during their therapy journey. Her clients often report that they connect with themselves on deeper levels than they initially thought possible.
(571) 556-7624 View (571) 556-7624
Photo of Jenny Warne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Jenny Warne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23226  (Online Only)
I welcome and affirm LGBTQ+ clients and have experience writing letters of support for gender confirming care.
Ahhh, spring! Longer days, more sunshine, and the traditional time to do a thorough cleaning. Why not include your brain this year? Let's weed out old thoughts and beliefs that don't fit anymore, sweep out the cobwebs of negativity, and generally spruce up the space between your ears to be a more pleasant place to spend time. Just like with material things, if it's not bringing you joy, peace, or any positive benefit - why are you holding onto it?
I welcome and affirm LGBTQ+ clients and have experience writing letters of support for gender confirming care.
Ahhh, spring! Longer days, more sunshine, and the traditional time to do a thorough cleaning. Why not include your brain this year? Let's weed out old thoughts and beliefs that don't fit anymore, sweep out the cobwebs of negativity, and generally spruce up the space between your ears to be a more pleasant place to spend time. Just like with material things, if it's not bringing you joy, peace, or any positive benefit - why are you holding onto it?
(804) 251-0935 View (804) 251-0935
Photo of Robyn D'Reaux-Rodgers, Pre-Licensed Professional in Richmond, VA
Robyn D'Reaux-Rodgers
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23228
With over 25 years experience as a therapist, I understand the importance of finding a welcoming space for therapy. Often people cope with stress in ways that can cause long-term problems. Whether you struggle with instability in your relationships, have mood swings, or addiction issues, therapy can help you learn more effective ways of coping, allowing you to be more effective and reduce suffering in your life. I specialize in treating individuals with various mental health concerns, including borderline personality disorder (BPD), addiction, LGBTQIA+ related issues, depression, OCT, trauma, and/or anxiety.
With over 25 years experience as a therapist, I understand the importance of finding a welcoming space for therapy. Often people cope with stress in ways that can cause long-term problems. Whether you struggle with instability in your relationships, have mood swings, or addiction issues, therapy can help you learn more effective ways of coping, allowing you to be more effective and reduce suffering in your life. I specialize in treating individuals with various mental health concerns, including borderline personality disorder (BPD), addiction, LGBTQIA+ related issues, depression, OCT, trauma, and/or anxiety.
(804) 331-6832 View (804) 331-6832
Photo of Bethany Allen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Richmond, VA
Bethany Allen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23219  (Online Only)
I received my Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville. I work with the following populations: children, adolescents, young adults and LGBTQIA+. I have worked with populations specifically with depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse/assault, domestic violence survivors, among many other mental health challenges. I have a vast array of experience in the mental health field working in a residential, group home, and psychiatric inpatient settings with children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience working with individuals who have been in crisis and who have experienced trauma.
I received my Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville. I work with the following populations: children, adolescents, young adults and LGBTQIA+. I have worked with populations specifically with depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse/assault, domestic violence survivors, among many other mental health challenges. I have a vast array of experience in the mental health field working in a residential, group home, and psychiatric inpatient settings with children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience working with individuals who have been in crisis and who have experienced trauma.
(804) 395-7546 View (804) 395-7546
Photo of Jerry L Mize, Resident in Counseling in Richmond, VA
Jerry L Mize
Resident in Counseling, MA, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23223
I welcome individuals and couples who are struggling with sex/intimacy, anxiety, trauma, and identity. Navigating life's challenges can often feel isolating. If you've ever felt hesitant or unsure about discussing topics that many consider unconventional or taboo, know that you've found a welcoming space here. We could also work on processing traumas and anxiety, and building your coping toolbox. I'm also a strong advocate (and part of) the LGBTQIA+ community, poly aware, and kink/BDSM aware. I'm continuously updating my knowledge to stay informed of the latest insights, ensuring that I offer relevant and evidence-based approaches.
I welcome individuals and couples who are struggling with sex/intimacy, anxiety, trauma, and identity. Navigating life's challenges can often feel isolating. If you've ever felt hesitant or unsure about discussing topics that many consider unconventional or taboo, know that you've found a welcoming space here. We could also work on processing traumas and anxiety, and building your coping toolbox. I'm also a strong advocate (and part of) the LGBTQIA+ community, poly aware, and kink/BDSM aware. I'm continuously updating my knowledge to stay informed of the latest insights, ensuring that I offer relevant and evidence-based approaches.
(804) 259-0679 View (804) 259-0679
Photo of Brianna Knox | Trauma Specialist | Emdr Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Brianna Knox | Trauma Specialist | Emdr Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23173  (Online Only)
As a Black, Queer, Millennial therapist, I am passionate about providing relatable therapy to BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Millennials.
What could your life be without the shame and guilt of childhood trauma? You are struggling to feel worthy of love. You are uncertain of how to give it and often wondering if you will ever find a relationship that just feels good. I get it. It is so difficult to surround yourself with love in adulthood when the people who raised you didn't do so for you in childhood. Come and work with me. I'll help you heal your inner child and break cycles of intergenerational trauma, so that you can build a life and relationships that you will love.
As a Black, Queer, Millennial therapist, I am passionate about providing relatable therapy to BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Millennials.
What could your life be without the shame and guilt of childhood trauma? You are struggling to feel worthy of love. You are uncertain of how to give it and often wondering if you will ever find a relationship that just feels good. I get it. It is so difficult to surround yourself with love in adulthood when the people who raised you didn't do so for you in childhood. Come and work with me. I'll help you heal your inner child and break cycles of intergenerational trauma, so that you can build a life and relationships that you will love.
(704) 610-3278 View (704) 610-3278
Photo of MySpectrum Counseling & Coaching, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
MySpectrum Counseling & Coaching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23235
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 Maxine Wylde, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Maxine Wylde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23220
As someone with who is a part of LGBTQ+, polyamorous and BDSM/kink communities, they appreciate the value of working with providers who are not only trained in these areas but also share identities with their clients.
Maxine's practice is grounded in curiosity, humility, and an anti-oppression framework. She endeavors to foster dynamic, generative, and trusting relationships with clients wherever they may be in their journey. Clients should expect to be compassionately challenged to cultivate insight, create tangible skills and implement measurable changes to their daily lives with Max's guidance.
As someone with who is a part of LGBTQ+, polyamorous and BDSM/kink communities, they appreciate the value of working with providers who are not only trained in these areas but also share identities with their clients.
Maxine's practice is grounded in curiosity, humility, and an anti-oppression framework. She endeavors to foster dynamic, generative, and trusting relationships with clients wherever they may be in their journey. Clients should expect to be compassionately challenged to cultivate insight, create tangible skills and implement measurable changes to their daily lives with Max's guidance.
(804) 997-5652 View (804) 997-5652
Photo of Courtney Diener, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Richmond, VA
Courtney Diener
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23222
As a therapist, my work centers harm reduction, neurodiversity and LGBTQ+ affirming support, trauma-informed care, sex positivity, and a Health at Every Size anti-diet approach.
I approach all therapy with an understanding of the ways our childhood, the environment around us, and the systems we live in impact our mental health and who we are as people. I use a strengths-based and client-centered approach that centers compassion and a deep respect for the therapeutic relationship as a powerful tool in growing in healing and recovery. I have over nine years of experience supporting survivors of child abuse, dating and domestic violence, and other forms of trauma.
As a therapist, my work centers harm reduction, neurodiversity and LGBTQ+ affirming support, trauma-informed care, sex positivity, and a Health at Every Size anti-diet approach.
I approach all therapy with an understanding of the ways our childhood, the environment around us, and the systems we live in impact our mental health and who we are as people. I use a strengths-based and client-centered approach that centers compassion and a deep respect for the therapeutic relationship as a powerful tool in growing in healing and recovery. I have over nine years of experience supporting survivors of child abuse, dating and domestic violence, and other forms of trauma.
(571) 777-0715 View (571) 777-0715
Photo of Calm Waters Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Calm Waters Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23223
At Calm Waters Counseling we believe that where ever you are right now, you have arrived at honestly. Our goal is to help you figure out where you want to go and help you develop the insight, plan, tools and resources so that you can bring out your healthiest best self. We are an inclusive practice and work well with all clients including clients with CPTSD, neurodivergence, the LGBTQIA community, students, and clients from a range of cultures and ethnicities. We take most insurances including Medicaid and have a self-pay fee for those who are out of network or no insurance.
At Calm Waters Counseling we believe that where ever you are right now, you have arrived at honestly. Our goal is to help you figure out where you want to go and help you develop the insight, plan, tools and resources so that you can bring out your healthiest best self. We are an inclusive practice and work well with all clients including clients with CPTSD, neurodivergence, the LGBTQIA community, students, and clients from a range of cultures and ethnicities. We take most insurances including Medicaid and have a self-pay fee for those who are out of network or no insurance.
(804) 361-8268 View (804) 361-8268
Photo of Micky Greene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Micky Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220
Michelle “Micky” Greene is a therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who strives to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for each person she serves. Micky has experience treating a diverse range of diagnoses and life challenges such as trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, and LGBTQIA+ issues. Micky earned her Master's degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, and majored in psychology and gender/sexuality/women’s studies at William & Mary. She uses a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to build a genuine relationship with her clients.
Michelle “Micky” Greene is a therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who strives to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for each person she serves. Micky has experience treating a diverse range of diagnoses and life challenges such as trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, and LGBTQIA+ issues. Micky earned her Master's degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, and majored in psychology and gender/sexuality/women’s studies at William & Mary. She uses a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to build a genuine relationship with her clients.
(804) 373-8721 View (804) 373-8721
Photo of Paula J. Jean, Psychologist in Richmond, VA
Paula J. Jean
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23222  (Online Only)
I have specialized in women's mental health for over 30 years with particular specialities in eating disorders, sexual abuse and lesbian issues.
I use a very eclectic approach in which I am engaged and actively involved in the therapeutic process. I ask lots of questions. I invite my patients to move away from self-judgment and to be truly curious about themselves and their lives. We look together at patterns of functioning, at assumptions about the self, at how the present reflects the past. The goal is authenticity and the path is self-awareness.
I have specialized in women's mental health for over 30 years with particular specialities in eating disorders, sexual abuse and lesbian issues.
I use a very eclectic approach in which I am engaged and actively involved in the therapeutic process. I ask lots of questions. I invite my patients to move away from self-judgment and to be truly curious about themselves and their lives. We look together at patterns of functioning, at assumptions about the self, at how the present reflects the past. The goal is authenticity and the path is self-awareness.
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LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.