Transgender Therapists in Idaho

Photo of Dianne Grace Piggott, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dianne Grace Piggott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, ID 83714
I specialize in working with transgender and gender non-binary people, and their families.
If you are not where you want to be, or who you want to be, there is a path towards a future. And looking for change is a great start! Depression, anxiety, obstructive/destructive habits; these can be telling you that it’s time to look at your life, understand what creates discomfort and what works, and find the momentum to take action. Your past may have shaped you but you can shape your future. If it’s time for change then come and talk. Life is full of transitions. In fact, all of life is a transition. And as a transgender woman I know about transitional challenges! When change comes along it can be very stressful.
I specialize in working with transgender and gender non-binary people, and their families.
If you are not where you want to be, or who you want to be, there is a path towards a future. And looking for change is a great start! Depression, anxiety, obstructive/destructive habits; these can be telling you that it’s time to look at your life, understand what creates discomfort and what works, and find the momentum to take action. Your past may have shaped you but you can shape your future. If it’s time for change then come and talk. Life is full of transitions. In fact, all of life is a transition. And as a transgender woman I know about transitional challenges! When change comes along it can be very stressful.
(208) 647-3715 View (208) 647-3715
Photo of Bobbi Kizer, PhD, Psychologist
Bobbi Kizer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
I am experienced working with individuals from all areas of the LGBTQIA+ umbrella and also routinely write recommendation/referral letters for transgender and gender diverse hormones and surgeries.
I believe that healing can happen through the process of empathic and supportive counseling. I work with mood issues, personality disorders, grief, substance use and more. I utilize a culturally sensitive and holistic psychodynamic style of therapy. This approach encourages development in all areas of life, and pays special attention to unconscious factors, childhood upbringing, trauma, and cultural identity (race, religion, sexuality, gender, disability, etc). I am currently accepting clients for group therapy, that will combine the sport/art of crew rowing with group talk therapy. This is a powerful way of feeling connection.
I am experienced working with individuals from all areas of the LGBTQIA+ umbrella and also routinely write recommendation/referral letters for transgender and gender diverse hormones and surgeries.
I believe that healing can happen through the process of empathic and supportive counseling. I work with mood issues, personality disorders, grief, substance use and more. I utilize a culturally sensitive and holistic psychodynamic style of therapy. This approach encourages development in all areas of life, and pays special attention to unconscious factors, childhood upbringing, trauma, and cultural identity (race, religion, sexuality, gender, disability, etc). I am currently accepting clients for group therapy, that will combine the sport/art of crew rowing with group talk therapy. This is a powerful way of feeling connection.
(504) 226-7035 View (504) 226-7035
Photo of Jamie K Lange, MACoun, LCPC, NCC, MA Comm, RYT-200, Counselor
Jamie K Lange
Counselor, MACoun, LCPC, NCC, MA Comm, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
I published "Narrating Gender: A Feminist Approach to the Narratives of the Transgender Experience" in 2012.
Coming to counseling does not mean you are broken; it means you have made a courageous choice to heal. I see humans as extraordinary beings who can look inward to find the places most needing love, compassion, and acceptance. Together, we create the world in which you will shine the brightest. Looking at yourself through a holistic lens where we connect the mind, body, and spirit, you can heal yourself. At my healing center, I offer talk therapy, somatic therapy, breath therapy, yoga therapy, group work, and spiritual therapy! I have an office and a small studio for all the trauma work necessary to set you free!
I published "Narrating Gender: A Feminist Approach to the Narratives of the Transgender Experience" in 2012.
Coming to counseling does not mean you are broken; it means you have made a courageous choice to heal. I see humans as extraordinary beings who can look inward to find the places most needing love, compassion, and acceptance. Together, we create the world in which you will shine the brightest. Looking at yourself through a holistic lens where we connect the mind, body, and spirit, you can heal yourself. At my healing center, I offer talk therapy, somatic therapy, breath therapy, yoga therapy, group work, and spiritual therapy! I have an office and a small studio for all the trauma work necessary to set you free!
(208) 647-4435 View (208) 647-4435
Photo of Luke R Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Luke R Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
(208) 987-1498 View (208) 987-1498
Photo of Jeremy Wayne Irvin - Idaho Gender and Sex Therapy (Jeremy Irvin, LCSW), LCSW, MEd, CST, CSTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Idaho Gender and Sex Therapy (Jeremy Irvin, LCSW)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd, CST, CSTS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83709
My primary therapy treatment style is emotionally-focused feminist therapy and I am also trained in EMDR and transgender health services (WPATH).
Welcome! I know that taking your first steps into finding a therapist can seem like a daunting task. Every therapist is slightly different, so the most important thing that you can do is to find a therapist who is right for you. Personally, I believe that therapy works best when we are able to work together in a friendly, collaborative environment, where you can feel seen, heard, and known. I also believe that there is no “one size fits all” model, and therefore I tailor my therapy sessions to each client's individual needs.
My primary therapy treatment style is emotionally-focused feminist therapy and I am also trained in EMDR and transgender health services (WPATH).
Welcome! I know that taking your first steps into finding a therapist can seem like a daunting task. Every therapist is slightly different, so the most important thing that you can do is to find a therapist who is right for you. Personally, I believe that therapy works best when we are able to work together in a friendly, collaborative environment, where you can feel seen, heard, and known. I also believe that there is no “one size fits all” model, and therefore I tailor my therapy sessions to each client's individual needs.
(208) 639-2401 View (208) 639-2401
Photo of Rebecca A Bohnenkamp, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca A Bohnenkamp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewiston, ID 83501
While I specialize in trauma recovery, I also have extensive experience dealing with the treatment of domestic violence related issues and transgender transitional concerns.
Bohnenkamp Behavioral Health is currently accepting new patients. In my practice I often say "I am not a 'Friends with Coffee-type' therapist". Over the past 21 years my style has developed throughout my varied experiences and has been shaped by my personality as well. I tend to be very direct so I can provide you with support and challenges to reach your personal goals in a progressive manner. I am skilled in creating a strong therapeutic relationship with my patients that is built on my warmth, humor and directness which has proven to be very effective when paired with my education, creativity, and experience.
While I specialize in trauma recovery, I also have extensive experience dealing with the treatment of domestic violence related issues and transgender transitional concerns.
Bohnenkamp Behavioral Health is currently accepting new patients. In my practice I often say "I am not a 'Friends with Coffee-type' therapist". Over the past 21 years my style has developed throughout my varied experiences and has been shaped by my personality as well. I tend to be very direct so I can provide you with support and challenges to reach your personal goals in a progressive manner. I am skilled in creating a strong therapeutic relationship with my patients that is built on my warmth, humor and directness which has proven to be very effective when paired with my education, creativity, and experience.
(208) 298-5796 View (208) 298-5796
Photo of Christina Franklin, LCMHCA, NCC
Christina Franklin
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pocatello, ID 83201
As the spouse of a transgender person, I am passionate about working with individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community and helping them to navigate their journey surrounding their gender identity and sexuality.
Currently accepting new clients! It takes courage to get this far in your pursuit of healing and growth. I support people who are navigating challenging relationships and who are exploring their identity. I am here to provide a therapeutic space that is personalized and safe where you are welcome to be vulnerable. I offer complimentary consultations to ensure we are a good fit and to make sure you have the best therapeutic experience.
As the spouse of a transgender person, I am passionate about working with individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community and helping them to navigate their journey surrounding their gender identity and sexuality.
Currently accepting new clients! It takes courage to get this far in your pursuit of healing and growth. I support people who are navigating challenging relationships and who are exploring their identity. I am here to provide a therapeutic space that is personalized and safe where you are welcome to be vulnerable. I offer complimentary consultations to ensure we are a good fit and to make sure you have the best therapeutic experience.
(910) 708-6142 View (910) 708-6142
Photo of Tanya Koifman - Licensed Clinical Social Worker, NY, NJ, ID, PA, DE, VT, RI, SC, FL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanya Koifman - Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, NY, NJ, ID, PA, DE, VT, RI, SC, FL
Verified Verified
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 Paige C Bruce - Healing Hearts Counseling Services, LCPC, LPC
Healing Hearts Counseling Services
LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hailey, ID 83333
I am LGTBQIA+ informed and trained and often work with individuals that identify as transgender or are navigating their gender and sexual identities.
Hi! I’m Paige Bruce, the owner of Healing Hearts Counseling Services. I work with clients ages 6 through adulthood. My strength-based nature is utilized to build rapport and a trusting relationship with my clients while empowering each client to progress towards their goals. I am a Clinical Certified Trauma Specialist and an LGBTQIA-informed practitioner. I continue to receive ongoing training on subjects such as trauma-informed care and counseling interventions with methods including CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), Person-centered Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I am LGTBQIA+ informed and trained and often work with individuals that identify as transgender or are navigating their gender and sexual identities.
Hi! I’m Paige Bruce, the owner of Healing Hearts Counseling Services. I work with clients ages 6 through adulthood. My strength-based nature is utilized to build rapport and a trusting relationship with my clients while empowering each client to progress towards their goals. I am a Clinical Certified Trauma Specialist and an LGBTQIA-informed practitioner. I continue to receive ongoing training on subjects such as trauma-informed care and counseling interventions with methods including CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), Person-centered Therapy, and Play Therapy.
(208) 268-5597 View (208) 268-5597
Photo of Ashleigh Griffin, L, P, C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashleigh Griffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, L, P, C
Verified Verified
Garden City, ID 83714
I am also a mom to three teens, one of whom is transgender.
The way you were cared for or not cared for as you grew up shaped your beliefs about yourself and the people around you. You may have also had traumatic experiences throughout your life. Those experiences and beliefs may still be affecting you today, causing symptoms including anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship problems, or other concerns. I believe you can heal! My role is to offer you compassion and safety as you do that. My practice is trauma-focused and I am EMDR trained.
I am also a mom to three teens, one of whom is transgender.
The way you were cared for or not cared for as you grew up shaped your beliefs about yourself and the people around you. You may have also had traumatic experiences throughout your life. Those experiences and beliefs may still be affecting you today, causing symptoms including anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship problems, or other concerns. I believe you can heal! My role is to offer you compassion and safety as you do that. My practice is trauma-focused and I am EMDR trained.
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Photo of Clay Salmon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clay Salmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
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?
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 Christine Tolman - Tolman Counseling, LCPC, Counselor
Tolman Counseling
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83705
Are you looking for a sex positive provider? Look no further, you found me. Humor is an important part of life and a powerful coping skill. I often utilize humor in therapy as a way to connect and process your experiences. I also like to follow and meet my client's needs, and adjust my approach accordingly. I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ people, trauma, polyamory, kink, desire discrepancy, and gender. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and both a BSU and UI graduate. I also graduated from University of Michigan with a certificate sex therapy and sex education.
Are you looking for a sex positive provider? Look no further, you found me. Humor is an important part of life and a powerful coping skill. I often utilize humor in therapy as a way to connect and process your experiences. I also like to follow and meet my client's needs, and adjust my approach accordingly. I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ people, trauma, polyamory, kink, desire discrepancy, and gender. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and both a BSU and UI graduate. I also graduated from University of Michigan with a certificate sex therapy and sex education.
(208) 314-3171 View (208) 314-3171
Photo of Breonna Krafft, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Breonna Krafft
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
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 Nolan Fellows, LCPC, Counselor
Nolan Fellows
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Talking about sex can be very challenging, particularly because we've receive so many mixed messages leading to feelings of internalized shame, guilt, and doubt. We are left wondering, "Am I normal? Are my desires and expressions okay?" We are rarely given space to have an honest, open conversation about our sexuality, gender or relationship structures and its impact on the larger self. My purpose in therapy is to create the space where understanding, healing, and integration of your authentic self can begin, where you can freely explore your sexual identity, expressions and ideal relationship configurations.
Talking about sex can be very challenging, particularly because we've receive so many mixed messages leading to feelings of internalized shame, guilt, and doubt. We are left wondering, "Am I normal? Are my desires and expressions okay?" We are rarely given space to have an honest, open conversation about our sexuality, gender or relationship structures and its impact on the larger self. My purpose in therapy is to create the space where understanding, healing, and integration of your authentic self can begin, where you can freely explore your sexual identity, expressions and ideal relationship configurations.
(208) 203-8704 View (208) 203-8704
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 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 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 Alicia M Garber, LCPC, ACADC, LCMHC, Counselor
Alicia M Garber
Counselor, LCPC, ACADC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you want to connect with someone who understands the nuances of the gay experience? Have you experienced stigma, discrimination, bullying, or harassment because of your gender identity, sexual orientation, or gender expression? Have you found yourself feeling lonely more often than not? Do you struggle with using drugs and/or alcohol to take the edge off of social situations? Have you contemplated taking your own life because you feel no one can understand what you are going through?
Do you want to connect with someone who understands the nuances of the gay experience? Have you experienced stigma, discrimination, bullying, or harassment because of your gender identity, sexual orientation, or gender expression? Have you found yourself feeling lonely more often than not? Do you struggle with using drugs and/or alcohol to take the edge off of social situations? Have you contemplated taking your own life because you feel no one can understand what you are going through?
(208) 546-9216 View (208) 546-9216
Photo of Daniel Hardin, LCPC, Counselor
Daniel Hardin
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83704
Since 2007, I have been dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health journeys with compassion and understanding. With extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, psychosis, and LGBTQ+ issues, I create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their concerns freely. My approach is rooted in a humanistic philosophy, using Client-Centered therapy within a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) framework to empower clients in developing the insight and coping skills they need. My broad life experiences enable me to quickly build rapport and connect deeply with those I work with
Since 2007, I have been dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health journeys with compassion and understanding. With extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, psychosis, and LGBTQ+ issues, I create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their concerns freely. My approach is rooted in a humanistic philosophy, using Client-Centered therapy within a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) framework to empower clients in developing the insight and coping skills they need. My broad life experiences enable me to quickly build rapport and connect deeply with those I work with
(986) 886-4453 View (986) 886-4453
Photo of Stephanie Grover, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Grover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83709
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.
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 Carol Vernon Anderson, PhD, ABPP-CN, Psychologist
Carol Vernon Anderson
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
Idaho Falls, ID 83402
I am here to help you realize who you really are and to express that living awareness. My intention is to create a safe environment where individuals can explore ways to overcome obstacles, release suffering, and live a more peaceful, compassionate, curious, wisdom-based, and joyful life. I also do evaluations for diagnosis/documentation of Learning Disabilities, ADHD, and intellectual functioning (e.g. Gifted/Talented; Social Security Disability).
I am here to help you realize who you really are and to express that living awareness. My intention is to create a safe environment where individuals can explore ways to overcome obstacles, release suffering, and live a more peaceful, compassionate, curious, wisdom-based, and joyful life. I also do evaluations for diagnosis/documentation of Learning Disabilities, ADHD, and intellectual functioning (e.g. Gifted/Talented; Social Security Disability).
(986) 786-3205 x1 View (986) 786-3205 x1
Photo of Jo Seiders, LCSW, CDE®, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo Seiders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDE®
Verified Verified
2 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
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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.