Transgender Therapists in New York, NY

Photo of Benjamin Davis, Art Therapist in New York, NY
Benjamin Davis
Art Therapist, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
While the focus of my practice and orientation is gender affirming and non-pathologizing with regards to queer and transgender issues, I welcome individuals of all gender identities and orientations.
Looking for a therapist, and particularly a queer and trans affirming therapist, can be a difficult and often complex process. We want someone who will understand our needs and our background, help us grow and develop new skills, and will support us in making sense of something that remains unsettling, perhaps years after a trauma or thought pattern first emerged.
While the focus of my practice and orientation is gender affirming and non-pathologizing with regards to queer and transgender issues, I welcome individuals of all gender identities and orientations.
Looking for a therapist, and particularly a queer and trans affirming therapist, can be a difficult and often complex process. We want someone who will understand our needs and our background, help us grow and develop new skills, and will support us in making sense of something that remains unsettling, perhaps years after a trauma or thought pattern first emerged.
(917) 525-5361 View (917) 525-5361
Photo of Nayeli Azul Salazar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Nayeli Azul Salazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space so you can speak openly about your experiences. I bring understanding working with LGBTQ+ individuals, first and second-generation immigrants, sex workers, and those in non-monogamous relationships. As a Latina transgender woman, I understand the importance of receiving affirming care that honors your unique identity and experiences. I want to hear your values and goals to help guide the direction of therapy.
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space so you can speak openly about your experiences. I bring understanding working with LGBTQ+ individuals, first and second-generation immigrants, sex workers, and those in non-monogamous relationships. As a Latina transgender woman, I understand the importance of receiving affirming care that honors your unique identity and experiences. I want to hear your values and goals to help guide the direction of therapy.
(332) 244-1248 View (332) 244-1248
Photo of Renee H Reopell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Renee H Reopell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm so glad you're here. Finding a supportive, therapeutic home can be a difficult challenge for us as queer, transgender, and non-binary people. Therefore, I hold some values to create a safer space: you are the expert in your own lived experience; you already posses the strengths that will help you with the challenges you're facing; you deserve a place without judgement; and you are entitled to be your authentic self. I come from a cross-cultural, social justice perspective, and believe collaboration with you is necessary for your best self. I serve individuals and families.
I'm so glad you're here. Finding a supportive, therapeutic home can be a difficult challenge for us as queer, transgender, and non-binary people. Therefore, I hold some values to create a safer space: you are the expert in your own lived experience; you already posses the strengths that will help you with the challenges you're facing; you deserve a place without judgement; and you are entitled to be your authentic self. I come from a cross-cultural, social justice perspective, and believe collaboration with you is necessary for your best self. I serve individuals and families.
(347) 662-2516 View (347) 662-2516
Photo of Lana Hurst, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Lana Hurst
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038
Waitlist for new clients
As a transgender woman who grew up in a politically and religiously conservative context, I know that change and healing can be terrifying.
Let’s say therapy works for you, what do you imagine will be different about your life? I always ask this question in our initial session, because therapy is about helping you get where you’re trying to go. My role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where curiosity is natural, compassion is the baseline, and exploration is key. To do this, I believe that a positive and strong relationship between therapist and client is essential. I typically work with clients who are navigating gender identity, life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and/or trauma—especially religious/spiritual trauma.
As a transgender woman who grew up in a politically and religiously conservative context, I know that change and healing can be terrifying.
Let’s say therapy works for you, what do you imagine will be different about your life? I always ask this question in our initial session, because therapy is about helping you get where you’re trying to go. My role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where curiosity is natural, compassion is the baseline, and exploration is key. To do this, I believe that a positive and strong relationship between therapist and client is essential. I typically work with clients who are navigating gender identity, life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and/or trauma—especially religious/spiritual trauma.
(347) 391-3629 View (347) 391-3629
Photo of Jacob Wangel-Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Jacob Wangel-Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I’m a trans and queer psychotherapist and World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Certified Member. I’m dedicated to providing safe, therapeutic space for transgender, gender expansive, queer, and questioning clients. As a dual-state licensed clinician in California and New York, my clinical practice, Trans Affirming Therapy serves to fill a critical need in creating competent, affirming, accessible care for our community and offers a warm environment to explore, process, and repair relationships within the self and with others. We’ll explore how your lived experience impacts your internal and external worlds.
I’m a trans and queer psychotherapist and World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Certified Member. I’m dedicated to providing safe, therapeutic space for transgender, gender expansive, queer, and questioning clients. As a dual-state licensed clinician in California and New York, my clinical practice, Trans Affirming Therapy serves to fill a critical need in creating competent, affirming, accessible care for our community and offers a warm environment to explore, process, and repair relationships within the self and with others. We’ll explore how your lived experience impacts your internal and external worlds.
(818) 431-2297 View (818) 431-2297
Photo of Mickey Field - Jamron Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Mickey Field - Jamron Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10009  (Online Only)
As a queer and transgender person, I understand the importance of having a safe and affirming space for self-exploration and strive to create a space without judgement.
One of the few certainties of life is change, which can come with excitement but also uncertainty and hardship. Whether you are experiencing the stressors of adolescence or young adulthood, confronting relationship issues, or wanting to examine your inner world, therapy can be a useful tool in navigating life transitions. I’m particularly interested in exploring issues surrounding anxiety, depression, relationships, self-worth, grief, gender identity, and sexuality. Together we can discover your wants and needs and take action towards reaching your goals.
As a queer and transgender person, I understand the importance of having a safe and affirming space for self-exploration and strive to create a space without judgement.
One of the few certainties of life is change, which can come with excitement but also uncertainty and hardship. Whether you are experiencing the stressors of adolescence or young adulthood, confronting relationship issues, or wanting to examine your inner world, therapy can be a useful tool in navigating life transitions. I’m particularly interested in exploring issues surrounding anxiety, depression, relationships, self-worth, grief, gender identity, and sexuality. Together we can discover your wants and needs and take action towards reaching your goals.
(929) 339-1569 View (929) 339-1569
Photo of Katie Douglass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Katie Douglass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
I am a Queer-identified therapist with over 20 years of experience working with diverse Transgender, Queer, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Gay identified individuals. My style is warm, active, and authentic. Starting therapy is hard, so my priority in early sessions is for you to feel relaxed, understood, and comfortable. Your laughter and questions are welcomed. With a background in LGBTQ+ public health, I am sensitive to the challenges and stressors that come with living outside cisgender/hetero norms. I also value subjugated knowledge​ - the wisdom we possess from not fitting into the dominant culture.
I am a Queer-identified therapist with over 20 years of experience working with diverse Transgender, Queer, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Gay identified individuals. My style is warm, active, and authentic. Starting therapy is hard, so my priority in early sessions is for you to feel relaxed, understood, and comfortable. Your laughter and questions are welcomed. With a background in LGBTQ+ public health, I am sensitive to the challenges and stressors that come with living outside cisgender/hetero norms. I also value subjugated knowledge​ - the wisdom we possess from not fitting into the dominant culture.
(929) 415-9936 View (929) 415-9936
Photo of Lara Brodzinsky, Psychologist in New York, NY
Lara Brodzinsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist who works with children and adolescents, parents, and young adults using an evidence-based approach. Areas of expertise include anxiety and mood disorders, gender dysphoria, chronic illness adjustment, pain management and medical non-adherence. My practice includes individual therapy, parent training, and group therapy; psychological, psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessment; as well as professional consultation and supervision. In addition, I am Assistant Professor within the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU Langone where I teach and supervise student trainees.
I am a licensed psychologist who works with children and adolescents, parents, and young adults using an evidence-based approach. Areas of expertise include anxiety and mood disorders, gender dysphoria, chronic illness adjustment, pain management and medical non-adherence. My practice includes individual therapy, parent training, and group therapy; psychological, psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessment; as well as professional consultation and supervision. In addition, I am Assistant Professor within the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU Langone where I teach and supervise student trainees.
(917) 900-1104 View (917) 900-1104
Photo of Matthew Oransky, Psychologist in New York, NY
Matthew Oransky
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
Finally, I have significant expertise in working with transgender, nonbinary and gender expansive youth and young adults.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with ten years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, young adults and families. My therapeutic approach is warm, collaborative and evidence-based. I take great care to tailor my treatment approach to the unique goals of each client. In general, I strive to help clients both understand the underlying causes of their difficulties while simultaneously developing the skills needed for more immediate relief. I received my training at Fordham University and the Yale School of Medicine. I am currently on faculty at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
Finally, I have significant expertise in working with transgender, nonbinary and gender expansive youth and young adults.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with ten years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, young adults and families. My therapeutic approach is warm, collaborative and evidence-based. I take great care to tailor my treatment approach to the unique goals of each client. In general, I strive to help clients both understand the underlying causes of their difficulties while simultaneously developing the skills needed for more immediate relief. I received my training at Fordham University and the Yale School of Medicine. I am currently on faculty at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
(646) 374-4340 View (646) 374-4340
Photo of Daniel M Tehrani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Daniel M Tehrani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
Affirming queer identity is an essential part of my practice as is social justice and liberation from oppressive systems. With a focus on mental health, trauma, and substance use within the LGBTQ community, I work primarily with queer, transgender, and gender non-conforming people of color. Our work together is focused on your needs and goals. Through my background as a writer, I understand the value of a supportive space to explore feelings. In our sessions, you'll find a safe environment for self-expression and personal reflection. From this foundation, insights emerge and growth takes place.
Affirming queer identity is an essential part of my practice as is social justice and liberation from oppressive systems. With a focus on mental health, trauma, and substance use within the LGBTQ community, I work primarily with queer, transgender, and gender non-conforming people of color. Our work together is focused on your needs and goals. Through my background as a writer, I understand the value of a supportive space to explore feelings. In our sessions, you'll find a safe environment for self-expression and personal reflection. From this foundation, insights emerge and growth takes place.
(914) 342-7379 View (914) 342-7379
Photo of Cherish Dawn Bookless in New York, NY
Cherish Dawn Bookless
MA, MHC LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Adults Children Teens Elders (65+) LGBTQ Transgender Allied Bisexual Allied Gay Allied Non- Binary Allied Lesbian Allied.
I am a Mental Health Counselor, who has a Masters Degree in Applied Behavioral Psychology and Advanced Certification in Mental Health Counseling. I offer my clients psychotherapy with an integrative approach, utilizing different theoretical frameworks to individualize a therapeutic plan for every person, group, and couple I work with. I primarily focus on CBT, Person-Centered, DBT, Relational, Psychodynamic, mindfulness, and meditation, but offer other techniques listed below. ​ My own philosophy is based on a holistic approach, so I do not always focus on diagnoses or pathology. However, I do recognize that sometimes it is needed.
Adults Children Teens Elders (65+) LGBTQ Transgender Allied Bisexual Allied Gay Allied Non- Binary Allied Lesbian Allied.
I am a Mental Health Counselor, who has a Masters Degree in Applied Behavioral Psychology and Advanced Certification in Mental Health Counseling. I offer my clients psychotherapy with an integrative approach, utilizing different theoretical frameworks to individualize a therapeutic plan for every person, group, and couple I work with. I primarily focus on CBT, Person-Centered, DBT, Relational, Psychodynamic, mindfulness, and meditation, but offer other techniques listed below. ​ My own philosophy is based on a holistic approach, so I do not always focus on diagnoses or pathology. However, I do recognize that sometimes it is needed.
(347) 752-5707 View (347) 752-5707
Photo of Laura A Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Laura A Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10013  (Online Only)
Lesbian, bisexual, gay, straight, queer, questioning, pansexual, asexual, trans, transgender, transsexual, nonbinary, genderqueer, gender nonconforming, detransitioner, kinky, BDSM, sex worker, vanilla, monogamous, single, polyamorous, even unicorn – let's improve your life.
We can all live rewarding, empowered lives. As someone with multiple intersecting identities, I understand the horrific effects of trauma, stigma, and mental/emotional health. I seek to establish a comfortable environment in which we can safely ask questions to help you make empowered decisions while we simultaneously investigate questions of meaning. I never require a client ‘prove’ their identity to me.
Lesbian, bisexual, gay, straight, queer, questioning, pansexual, asexual, trans, transgender, transsexual, nonbinary, genderqueer, gender nonconforming, detransitioner, kinky, BDSM, sex worker, vanilla, monogamous, single, polyamorous, even unicorn – let's improve your life.
We can all live rewarding, empowered lives. As someone with multiple intersecting identities, I understand the horrific effects of trauma, stigma, and mental/emotional health. I seek to establish a comfortable environment in which we can safely ask questions to help you make empowered decisions while we simultaneously investigate questions of meaning. I never require a client ‘prove’ their identity to me.
(845) 304-7915 View (845) 304-7915
Photo of Barbara E Warren, Counselor in New York, NY
Barbara E Warren
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
I have over 30 years of experience working with clients of all backgrounds to take positive action on a variety of health, mental health and life issues. I have special expertise in facilitating behavior change including weight control, smoking cessation and alcohol/drug use and with LGBT issues; realtionships, transgender transition and HIV related support. I provide both individual and couples psychotherapy and counseling services.
I have over 30 years of experience working with clients of all backgrounds to take positive action on a variety of health, mental health and life issues. I have special expertise in facilitating behavior change including weight control, smoking cessation and alcohol/drug use and with LGBT issues; realtionships, transgender transition and HIV related support. I provide both individual and couples psychotherapy and counseling services.
(646) 849-6676 View (646) 849-6676
Photo of Tanya Koifman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Tanya Koifman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10036  (Online Only)
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
(646) 798-6332 View (646) 798-6332
Photo of Louis Pansulla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Louis Pansulla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I have expertise in Relationship issues, working with Sexuality and Gender Identity(Transgender) , Stress/anxiety and depressive disorders, Addictions, and 'Life Transitions' and challenges.
Psychotherapy lets people be their most 'authentic' selves and live at their highest potential; it also helps them understand barriers to optimal living. Expecting that you have all the answers is not realistic, and entering therapy is a helpful step to deepening understanding, resolving problematic relational patterns and simply making changes. Also,Therapy need not be a 'lifelong process'. I have a proven track record working with people achieving results. My treatment approach combines a Relational psychodynamic frame with goal-focused techniques. I tend to work very interactively with clients relationally, while also allowing abundant space for clients their own insights and self-reflection.
I have expertise in Relationship issues, working with Sexuality and Gender Identity(Transgender) , Stress/anxiety and depressive disorders, Addictions, and 'Life Transitions' and challenges.
Psychotherapy lets people be their most 'authentic' selves and live at their highest potential; it also helps them understand barriers to optimal living. Expecting that you have all the answers is not realistic, and entering therapy is a helpful step to deepening understanding, resolving problematic relational patterns and simply making changes. Also,Therapy need not be a 'lifelong process'. I have a proven track record working with people achieving results. My treatment approach combines a Relational psychodynamic frame with goal-focused techniques. I tend to work very interactively with clients relationally, while also allowing abundant space for clients their own insights and self-reflection.
(212) 633-8070 View (212) 633-8070
Photo of Yi Zhou, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Yi Zhou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
In my practice, I play a crucial role in helping clients navigate the complexities of mental health challenges and various life transitions. Specializing in gender dysphoria and the intricate processes of transition, I provide dedicated support to individuals navigating these unique journeys. In recognizing the diversity of human relationships, I work with clients across various relationship forms, including those engaged in non-monogamous dynamics. My goal is to assist individuals, couples and families in achieving a greater sense of unity and satisfaction in their lives.
In my practice, I play a crucial role in helping clients navigate the complexities of mental health challenges and various life transitions. Specializing in gender dysphoria and the intricate processes of transition, I provide dedicated support to individuals navigating these unique journeys. In recognizing the diversity of human relationships, I work with clients across various relationship forms, including those engaged in non-monogamous dynamics. My goal is to assist individuals, couples and families in achieving a greater sense of unity and satisfaction in their lives.
(646) 751-0647 View (646) 751-0647
Photo of Joanne N Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Joanne N Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10007
My specialty is with LGBTQ -lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning people.
As a relational therapist who believes that interpersonal issues are important to traditional or non-traditional relationships, I work with a diverse population racial, ethnic differences, sexualities, genders in an affirming arena. Building a relationship and trust with clients as we work through their issues with partners, spouses, family, stress, difficulties at work, home or school. Help people explore and express feelings of sadness, depression, anxiety, confusion, grief and pain. I use my skills to help clients feel better about themselves so they can choose to make necessary and thoughtful changes in their lives.
My specialty is with LGBTQ -lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning people.
As a relational therapist who believes that interpersonal issues are important to traditional or non-traditional relationships, I work with a diverse population racial, ethnic differences, sexualities, genders in an affirming arena. Building a relationship and trust with clients as we work through their issues with partners, spouses, family, stress, difficulties at work, home or school. Help people explore and express feelings of sadness, depression, anxiety, confusion, grief and pain. I use my skills to help clients feel better about themselves so they can choose to make necessary and thoughtful changes in their lives.
(917) 512-2464 View (917) 512-2464
Photo of Joie A DeRitis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Joie A DeRitis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting transgender and gender non-conforming people, polyamorous and non-monogamous folks, and those interested in kink and BDSM.
I am currently accepting new clients. I am a psychotherapist offering weekly care to adult individuals, couples, and multi-partner relationships. My clinical approach is highly relational, and is designed to keep you grounded in your personal sovereignty as we collaborate toward your goals. I help people with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, gender and sexuality, eroticism, interpersonal dysfunction, intrusive thoughts, body image, spirituality and religious trauma, life changes and transitions, and the shame and blame that linger from the past.
I specialize in supporting transgender and gender non-conforming people, polyamorous and non-monogamous folks, and those interested in kink and BDSM.
I am currently accepting new clients. I am a psychotherapist offering weekly care to adult individuals, couples, and multi-partner relationships. My clinical approach is highly relational, and is designed to keep you grounded in your personal sovereignty as we collaborate toward your goals. I help people with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, gender and sexuality, eroticism, interpersonal dysfunction, intrusive thoughts, body image, spirituality and religious trauma, life changes and transitions, and the shame and blame that linger from the past.
(929) 369-0579 View (929) 369-0579
Photo of Katherine Rachlin, Psychologist in New York, NY
Katherine Rachlin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10014  (Online Only)
Are you or your loved-one exploring gender and sexuality? I have decades of experience working with transgender, and gender diverse individuals, their partners and families. I work with adults at all stages of gender exploration and transition. I also support people who have decided not to transition for now or who are post-transition or for whom transition is no longer a central issue. I also specialize in relationship therapy for people of all sexual orientations - therapy for individuals who are in the most traditional of relationships as well as for those exploring Kink and DS lifestyles and nonmonogamy.
Are you or your loved-one exploring gender and sexuality? I have decades of experience working with transgender, and gender diverse individuals, their partners and families. I work with adults at all stages of gender exploration and transition. I also support people who have decided not to transition for now or who are post-transition or for whom transition is no longer a central issue. I also specialize in relationship therapy for people of all sexual orientations - therapy for individuals who are in the most traditional of relationships as well as for those exploring Kink and DS lifestyles and nonmonogamy.
(646) 846-9954 View (646) 846-9954
Photo of Carter Houston, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York, NY
Carter Houston
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10013
Are you a queer, trans, non-binary, or gender expansive person exploring gender/sexuality while coping with homophobia and/or transphobia? If you are TGNC, do you find yourself experiencing gender dysphoria and also want to explore gender euphoria? In a cishet-centered world, it can be difficult to prioritize queer joy and safety. Regardless of where or how you fit into the LGBTQIA+ community, my hope is that we can start that prioritization process together while also holding space for the hard stuff. As a therapist, I believe that you are the expert in your own life. My aim is to listen and provide warmth, patience, and tools.
Are you a queer, trans, non-binary, or gender expansive person exploring gender/sexuality while coping with homophobia and/or transphobia? If you are TGNC, do you find yourself experiencing gender dysphoria and also want to explore gender euphoria? In a cishet-centered world, it can be difficult to prioritize queer joy and safety. Regardless of where or how you fit into the LGBTQIA+ community, my hope is that we can start that prioritization process together while also holding space for the hard stuff. As a therapist, I believe that you are the expert in your own life. My aim is to listen and provide warmth, patience, and tools.
(914) 690-6317 View (914) 690-6317

Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.