LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Idaho

Photo of Clay Salmon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clay Salmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
I am a queer licensed clinical social worker who works to hold space and affirm all persons with LGBTQIA2S+ identities.
Hello! My name is Clay (he/they). You are probably looking for a therapist if you are ready for something to change. Maybe the experience is recent or from years ago. Stress, depression, anxiety and trauma show up for us in different ways over time and sometimes they get in the way of moving through the world in a way that works for us. Sometimes it is understanding how past and current systems, oppression, or identity and impact our internal and external experiences in our now day to day lives. What are you struggling with? What do you want to be different?
I am a queer licensed clinical social worker who works to hold space and affirm all persons with LGBTQIA2S+ identities.
Hello! My name is Clay (he/they). You are probably looking for a therapist if you are ready for something to change. Maybe the experience is recent or from years ago. Stress, depression, anxiety and trauma show up for us in different ways over time and sometimes they get in the way of moving through the world in a way that works for us. Sometimes it is understanding how past and current systems, oppression, or identity and impact our internal and external experiences in our now day to day lives. What are you struggling with? What do you want to be different?
(208) 793-7217 View (208) 793-7217
Photo of Stephanie Grover, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Grover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83709
As a queer neurodiverse therapist I prioritize working with marginalized groups as I understand aspects of overt as well as nuanced intersections occurring throughout a lifetime.
Hello beautiful people! My main focus as a therapist is to work alongside you and to meet you where you're at, finding peace, identifying resilience and feeling empowered while making progress, whatever that means for you. My approach is warm, interactive, and client-centered. I view the work as a collaborative process, continually checking in and creating a safe space as well as a place to look at holistic aspects of identity. I value transparency and authenticity. We may jive if you are self-reflective, are ready to work, are pleasure-positive, vaxxed, and believe Black Lives Matter.
As a queer neurodiverse therapist I prioritize working with marginalized groups as I understand aspects of overt as well as nuanced intersections occurring throughout a lifetime.
Hello beautiful people! My main focus as a therapist is to work alongside you and to meet you where you're at, finding peace, identifying resilience and feeling empowered while making progress, whatever that means for you. My approach is warm, interactive, and client-centered. I view the work as a collaborative process, continually checking in and creating a safe space as well as a place to look at holistic aspects of identity. I value transparency and authenticity. We may jive if you are self-reflective, are ready to work, are pleasure-positive, vaxxed, and believe Black Lives Matter.
(208) 266-2901 View (208) 266-2901
Photo of Alyssa Becker, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Becker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
Alyssa is a compassionate therapist who works with a wide range of populations, specializing in working with the LGBTQ+ population and trauma survivors. She approaches her work with sensitivity and empathy, recognizing the importance of honoring each client's unique experiences and identities. Alyssa enjoys working with adolescents, teens, and adults. She has experience with PTSD, religious or spiritual transitions, LGBTQ+ populations, anxiety, depression, and phobias. In her therapeutic practice, Alyssa employs an integrative approach that is tailored to each individual client.
Alyssa is a compassionate therapist who works with a wide range of populations, specializing in working with the LGBTQ+ population and trauma survivors. She approaches her work with sensitivity and empathy, recognizing the importance of honoring each client's unique experiences and identities. Alyssa enjoys working with adolescents, teens, and adults. She has experience with PTSD, religious or spiritual transitions, LGBTQ+ populations, anxiety, depression, and phobias. In her therapeutic practice, Alyssa employs an integrative approach that is tailored to each individual client.
(986) 300-2121 View (986) 300-2121
Photo of Michael Wilson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a queer person, I have a passion and experience for working with the unique experiences of LGBTQ folks, as well as young adults and men. I am kink-aware and poly/CNM-affirming.
As a queer person, I have a passion and experience for working with the unique experiences of LGBTQ folks, as well as young adults and men. I am kink-aware and poly/CNM-affirming.
(208) 826-1481 View (208) 826-1481
Photo of Jo Seiders, LCSW, CDE®, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo Seiders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDE®
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83705
If you feel different or misunderstood a lot of the time, we would likely vibe. If you are a treatment provider experiencing compassion fatigue or burnout, I got you. I thrive working with kiddos, teens and their families/support systems. Do you require assistance animal/service companion? Nice, I do as well. If you have multiple diagnoses and are experiencing high amounts of distress at work and/or school and you’re not sure what to do, we should talk. Do you identify as Two-Spirit, LGBTQIA+, disabled, of the Global Majority, or another group or culture that experience discrimination and intolerance on the daily? Might be a match.
If you feel different or misunderstood a lot of the time, we would likely vibe. If you are a treatment provider experiencing compassion fatigue or burnout, I got you. I thrive working with kiddos, teens and their families/support systems. Do you require assistance animal/service companion? Nice, I do as well. If you have multiple diagnoses and are experiencing high amounts of distress at work and/or school and you’re not sure what to do, we should talk. Do you identify as Two-Spirit, LGBTQIA+, disabled, of the Global Majority, or another group or culture that experience discrimination and intolerance on the daily? Might be a match.
(208) 408-3895 View (208) 408-3895
Photo of Steven I Lanzet, MEd, LMFT-S, LCPC-S, CSAT-S, Counselor
Steven I Lanzet
Counselor, MEd, LMFT-S, LCPC-S, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83705
Whether it's anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, alcohol, drugs, porn, or sex, it's such a relief to move from pain, guilt, and shame with a realistic plan that makes sense.
People say my style is different from other counselors. "He's not the kind of counselor who just sits back and says uh-huh every few minutes." I am not shy about giving feedback and responding to my clients. Counseling is a relationship and I strive to create an engaging and healing dialogue from the beginning. Whatever your issue is, if it's not getting better with what you have been doing so far, now is the time to seek assistance. Call me to discuss your concerns and we can decide if I am the right resource for you.
Whether it's anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, alcohol, drugs, porn, or sex, it's such a relief to move from pain, guilt, and shame with a realistic plan that makes sense.
People say my style is different from other counselors. "He's not the kind of counselor who just sits back and says uh-huh every few minutes." I am not shy about giving feedback and responding to my clients. Counseling is a relationship and I strive to create an engaging and healing dialogue from the beginning. Whatever your issue is, if it's not getting better with what you have been doing so far, now is the time to seek assistance. Call me to discuss your concerns and we can decide if I am the right resource for you.
(208) 269-9388 View (208) 269-9388
Photo of J Bass, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC, Counselor
J Bass
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83701
I proudly identify as an LGBTQ therapist who believes in a therapeutic relationship that is steeped in active listening, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I offer an integrative approach to clients that focuses on the client’s unique needs and identities. One of my primary specialties is affirmative and knowledgable therapy for LGBTQ clients. I use various counseling techniques such as unconditional positive regard, Nurture Play Structure (NPS), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy as well as psychoeducation to provide an individualized plan of care.
I proudly identify as an LGBTQ therapist who believes in a therapeutic relationship that is steeped in active listening, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I offer an integrative approach to clients that focuses on the client’s unique needs and identities. One of my primary specialties is affirmative and knowledgable therapy for LGBTQ clients. I use various counseling techniques such as unconditional positive regard, Nurture Play Structure (NPS), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy as well as psychoeducation to provide an individualized plan of care.
(919) 298-8795 View (919) 298-8795
Photo of Pam Major, LCSW, CSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pam Major
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83701
Areas I focus on are persistent depression, anxiety, social anxiety, trauma, faith challenges, LGBTQ+, ADHD, ASD, open relationships, and relationship/marital problems.
I'm here to work with anyone who feels like a misfit and outcast in this community. Especially LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent (ADHD and ASD) folk. Also all sexual, relationship, and gender orientations and all body types. I see you! I welcome you! You are accepted as you are! Feeling different can often lead to trauma, and trauma can lead to feeling misunderstood and hopelessness. I'm here for it all. I'm here to help you heal and thrive in this wonderful, crazy world. I also work with couples navigating mixed-faith marriages, non-monogamy, intimacy, and communication barriers.
Areas I focus on are persistent depression, anxiety, social anxiety, trauma, faith challenges, LGBTQ+, ADHD, ASD, open relationships, and relationship/marital problems.
I'm here to work with anyone who feels like a misfit and outcast in this community. Especially LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent (ADHD and ASD) folk. Also all sexual, relationship, and gender orientations and all body types. I see you! I welcome you! You are accepted as you are! Feeling different can often lead to trauma, and trauma can lead to feeling misunderstood and hopelessness. I'm here for it all. I'm here to help you heal and thrive in this wonderful, crazy world. I also work with couples navigating mixed-faith marriages, non-monogamy, intimacy, and communication barriers.
(385) 304-3973 View (385) 304-3973
Photo of Eric Hales, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eric Hales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rexburg, ID 83440
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals, clients who struggle to build meaningful relationships, people navigating spiritual journeys or faith transitions, those facing addiction-related issues, individuals in mixed-orientation marriages, and those who experience OCD, anxiety, and depression.
As a gay man, I validate and support clients’ identities, sexuality, and spiritual beliefs. Raised in the LDS faith, I understand the cultural, familial, social, and spiritual complexities that can arise from growing up in that environment. I focus on helping clients heal from shame-based trauma, improve their relationship skills, and build a life that aligns with their sexuality, gender identity, goals, and values.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals, clients who struggle to build meaningful relationships, people navigating spiritual journeys or faith transitions, those facing addiction-related issues, individuals in mixed-orientation marriages, and those who experience OCD, anxiety, and depression.
As a gay man, I validate and support clients’ identities, sexuality, and spiritual beliefs. Raised in the LDS faith, I understand the cultural, familial, social, and spiritual complexities that can arise from growing up in that environment. I focus on helping clients heal from shame-based trauma, improve their relationship skills, and build a life that aligns with their sexuality, gender identity, goals, and values.
(385) 448-5054 View (385) 448-5054
Photo of Isabel Menchaca, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Isabel Menchaca
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
I offer LGBTQIA+ affirming counseling, and do my best to provide a safe, secure space for your healing work to take place.
I specialize in working with trauma. While I have a particular focus on working with issues around sexual trauma, sexuality and gender, and religious trauma, I work with trauma of all kinds. I believe that our behaviors, thoughts, physical sensations, worldviews, and ways of being are parts of us that all have stories, waiting to be heard and explored if they are given the opportunity. Giving these parts of us care and attention builds our emotional intelligence, essential to improving not only our lives, but also the lives of those around us in our close relationships, families, and broader communities.
I offer LGBTQIA+ affirming counseling, and do my best to provide a safe, secure space for your healing work to take place.
I specialize in working with trauma. While I have a particular focus on working with issues around sexual trauma, sexuality and gender, and religious trauma, I work with trauma of all kinds. I believe that our behaviors, thoughts, physical sensations, worldviews, and ways of being are parts of us that all have stories, waiting to be heard and explored if they are given the opportunity. Giving these parts of us care and attention builds our emotional intelligence, essential to improving not only our lives, but also the lives of those around us in our close relationships, families, and broader communities.
(208) 428-5280 View (208) 428-5280
Photo of Kayanna Gunther, LMSW
Kayanna Gunther
LMSW
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83705
I am passionate about working with individual teens and adults, specifically those in the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities.
Hello, I’m Kayanna! My goal is to provide safe, supportive, sex-positive/kink allied, and trauma informed assistance to any and all who seek it out. Building community and connection, I believe, both professionally and personally, is an integral part of being human and supporting healing within yourself. Through the collaborative therapeutic process, I believe I can provide the needed support and assistance as you address your concerns.
I am passionate about working with individual teens and adults, specifically those in the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities.
Hello, I’m Kayanna! My goal is to provide safe, supportive, sex-positive/kink allied, and trauma informed assistance to any and all who seek it out. Building community and connection, I believe, both professionally and personally, is an integral part of being human and supporting healing within yourself. Through the collaborative therapeutic process, I believe I can provide the needed support and assistance as you address your concerns.
(208) 428-5216 View (208) 428-5216
Photo of Misty L Wall, PhD, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Misty L Wall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked, advocated, and published extensively in the experiences of people who identify as LGBTQIA.
I use 25 years of experience and a strong sense humor to be a part of creating solutions to pressing challenges like behavioral and relationship distress, discovering your strengths, and making ambitious progress toward your chosen future. I enjoy working with most people. Some of my favorite clients are those discovering who they are and summoning the courage to let the world know. I support client's by listening, hearing, and seeing them and looking for patterns that are lifting them up and holding them back. Together we untangle the past and make sense of the future.
I have worked, advocated, and published extensively in the experiences of people who identify as LGBTQIA.
I use 25 years of experience and a strong sense humor to be a part of creating solutions to pressing challenges like behavioral and relationship distress, discovering your strengths, and making ambitious progress toward your chosen future. I enjoy working with most people. Some of my favorite clients are those discovering who they are and summoning the courage to let the world know. I support client's by listening, hearing, and seeing them and looking for patterns that are lifting them up and holding them back. Together we untangle the past and make sense of the future.
(208) 904-2016 View (208) 904-2016
Photo of Victoria Brenner, MCoun, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria Brenner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCoun, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703
Hello! My name is Victoria, and I graduated from Idaho State University - Meridian with my clinical mental health counseling degree, and I'm waiting to meet you! Whether you're an adult struggling with the stress and trauma you may have experienced, or a parent looking to find a safe space for your teen, I'm here and ready to help you find the path through life. I enjoy work with the LGBTQIA+ community, with a special passion for working with adolescents (14+) and young adults.
Hello! My name is Victoria, and I graduated from Idaho State University - Meridian with my clinical mental health counseling degree, and I'm waiting to meet you! Whether you're an adult struggling with the stress and trauma you may have experienced, or a parent looking to find a safe space for your teen, I'm here and ready to help you find the path through life. I enjoy work with the LGBTQIA+ community, with a special passion for working with adolescents (14+) and young adults.
(208) 629-2467 View (208) 629-2467
Photo of Jessica Ivancic, LCPC
Jessica Ivancic
LCPC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83704
I have extensive experience with providing LGBTQIA+ mental health services, gender affirming care, and trauma recovery.
Currently accepting new clients. Difficult life experiences and obstacles can impact your ability to thrive - experiencing life as if you're going through the motions without purpose and direction. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, or guilt. You may begin to experience a lack of motivation, feeling out of control, and you may want to avoid or numb the feelings altogether. You would like to feel differently, but you don't know where to begin. Together, we will work on reducing guilt and shame, increasing empowerment, and meeting your personal goals.
I have extensive experience with providing LGBTQIA+ mental health services, gender affirming care, and trauma recovery.
Currently accepting new clients. Difficult life experiences and obstacles can impact your ability to thrive - experiencing life as if you're going through the motions without purpose and direction. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, or guilt. You may begin to experience a lack of motivation, feeling out of control, and you may want to avoid or numb the feelings altogether. You would like to feel differently, but you don't know where to begin. Together, we will work on reducing guilt and shame, increasing empowerment, and meeting your personal goals.
(208) 218-8746 View (208) 218-8746
Photo of Heidi R Maurer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi R Maurer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Idaho Falls, ID 83402
Waitlist for new clients
I am here to change that! I am passionate about serving individuals who identify as LGBTQ and those who are considered "different" or too diverse.
I believe therapy is the ultimate form of bravery and vulnerability. Those who engage in treatment with me will find I take a client centered, trauma informed approach to therapy. Meaning, that our therapeutic relationship is of the utmost importance to me and I will pull from a variety of methodologies in order to tailor your treatment to your unique situation. I have found that clients who succeed in therapy are those willing to invite their true selves into the room regardless of what they might be feeling, thinking, or experiencing. By doing so, this allows full understanding of their issues and growth towards sustainable joy.
I am here to change that! I am passionate about serving individuals who identify as LGBTQ and those who are considered "different" or too diverse.
I believe therapy is the ultimate form of bravery and vulnerability. Those who engage in treatment with me will find I take a client centered, trauma informed approach to therapy. Meaning, that our therapeutic relationship is of the utmost importance to me and I will pull from a variety of methodologies in order to tailor your treatment to your unique situation. I have found that clients who succeed in therapy are those willing to invite their true selves into the room regardless of what they might be feeling, thinking, or experiencing. By doing so, this allows full understanding of their issues and growth towards sustainable joy.
(986) 946-5579 View (986) 946-5579
Photo of Breonna Krafft, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Breonna Krafft
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
In addition to treating the general population, I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, marginalized folks, individuals who want to live their lives authentically, and prison-impacted people.
The world feels grim right now. You're tired, angry, scared. You feel alone and like so many people have turned their backs on you. Some days getting out of bed is hard. But "hope has dirt on her face, blood on her knuckles, the grit of cobblestone in her hair, and just spat out a tooth as she rises for another go." Hope isn't gone, even though it feels like she is. Resilience can help you find her again. Call or text me today at 208-274-9373 and let's get started.
In addition to treating the general population, I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, marginalized folks, individuals who want to live their lives authentically, and prison-impacted people.
The world feels grim right now. You're tired, angry, scared. You feel alone and like so many people have turned their backs on you. Some days getting out of bed is hard. But "hope has dirt on her face, blood on her knuckles, the grit of cobblestone in her hair, and just spat out a tooth as she rises for another go." Hope isn't gone, even though it feels like she is. Resilience can help you find her again. Call or text me today at 208-274-9373 and let's get started.
(208) 274-9373 View (208) 274-9373
Photo of Katherine Cooper, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
She is LGBTQIA+ affirming and welcoming, ensuring that individuals of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions feel respected and valued in her practice.
With a focus on trauma-informed care, Katherine works with individuals who are experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and major life transitions. In addition to her expertise in trauma and mental health, In addition to her expertise in trauma and mental health, Katherine also works with individuals navigating issues related to binge eating disorders. She believes in tailoring therapy to each client's unique needs and strengths, empowering them to develop resilience and cultivate effective coping strategies. Katherine is also committed to creating an inclusive and affirming space for all clients.
She is LGBTQIA+ affirming and welcoming, ensuring that individuals of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions feel respected and valued in her practice.
With a focus on trauma-informed care, Katherine works with individuals who are experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and major life transitions. In addition to her expertise in trauma and mental health, In addition to her expertise in trauma and mental health, Katherine also works with individuals navigating issues related to binge eating disorders. She believes in tailoring therapy to each client's unique needs and strengths, empowering them to develop resilience and cultivate effective coping strategies. Katherine is also committed to creating an inclusive and affirming space for all clients.
(208) 289-0539 View (208) 289-0539
Photo of Darren Adams, LCPC, Counselor
Darren Adams
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community I invite you to be courageous and work to start your journey towards becoming your authentic self. Gaining insight into your life can be a complicated process. Most people experience challenging times when dealing with change. Harriet Lerner once said, "What will never change is the will to change and the fear of change. It is the will to change that motivates us to seek help. It is the fear of change that motivates us to resist the very help we seek." If you are feeling a need for change in your life, I invite you to start the process of therapy to change your direction in life.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community I invite you to be courageous and work to start your journey towards becoming your authentic self. Gaining insight into your life can be a complicated process. Most people experience challenging times when dealing with change. Harriet Lerner once said, "What will never change is the will to change and the fear of change. It is the will to change that motivates us to seek help. It is the fear of change that motivates us to resist the very help we seek." If you are feeling a need for change in your life, I invite you to start the process of therapy to change your direction in life.
(208) 782-4355 View (208) 782-4355
Photo of Scot House, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scot House
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hailey, ID 83333
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, he has experience working with diverse populations and those with special needs.
Scot is a Licensed Professional Counselor and board-certified National Certified Counselor who works with individuals grappling with trauma, grief and loss, substance use, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. He develops individualized treatment plans using evidence-based approaches and interventions according to the client’s stated concerns, intentions, and goals. Scot believes that his role as a therapist is to hold space and help guide clients in accessing the profound wisdom that we each possess.
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, he has experience working with diverse populations and those with special needs.
Scot is a Licensed Professional Counselor and board-certified National Certified Counselor who works with individuals grappling with trauma, grief and loss, substance use, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. He develops individualized treatment plans using evidence-based approaches and interventions according to the client’s stated concerns, intentions, and goals. Scot believes that his role as a therapist is to hold space and help guide clients in accessing the profound wisdom that we each possess.
(208) 369-9725 View (208) 369-9725
Photo of Lydia Blackwell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lydia Blackwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have extensive experience working with the queer community, religious trauma, gender affirming care, and trauma recovery.
We're living through a difficult time period, which can compound upon pre-existing traumas, anxieties, stressors, and relational difficulties. I would love to join you alongside your journey to stability, improved quality of life/relationships, and mental health. I will explore with you your past and current experiences and feelings to get to the root of what is causing struggle and assist in locating a path of healing and relief. If you need to be witnessed in the experiences you've had, explore deeply the emotional impacts they have had on you, and examine with intention the direction you'd like to head, reach out.
I have extensive experience working with the queer community, religious trauma, gender affirming care, and trauma recovery.
We're living through a difficult time period, which can compound upon pre-existing traumas, anxieties, stressors, and relational difficulties. I would love to join you alongside your journey to stability, improved quality of life/relationships, and mental health. I will explore with you your past and current experiences and feelings to get to the root of what is causing struggle and assist in locating a path of healing and relief. If you need to be witnessed in the experiences you've had, explore deeply the emotional impacts they have had on you, and examine with intention the direction you'd like to head, reach out.
(208) 606-4063 View (208) 606-4063
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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.