Transgender Therapists in Indiana

Photo of Leo Andrew Bowman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leo Andrew Bowman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi I'm Leo I'm a non binary transgender man. I have my master’s degree in social work from the University of Louisville and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social worker in Indiana and Kentucky. My professional background has been working with the University of Louisville as a therapist at the Trager Institute Optimal Aging Clinic. While working at University of Louisville Trager Institute, I gained experience in treatment areas such as conversion disorders/PNES, PTSD/Trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, transgender issues, gender dysphoria and LGBTQ+ issues.
Hi I'm Leo I'm a non binary transgender man. I have my master’s degree in social work from the University of Louisville and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social worker in Indiana and Kentucky. My professional background has been working with the University of Louisville as a therapist at the Trager Institute Optimal Aging Clinic. While working at University of Louisville Trager Institute, I gained experience in treatment areas such as conversion disorders/PNES, PTSD/Trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, transgender issues, gender dysphoria and LGBTQ+ issues.
(463) 287-7155 View (463) 287-7155
Photo of Trevor Payne, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trevor Payne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Noblesville, IN 46060
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with clients who have ADHD, autism, and anxiety, as well as members of the transgender and gender-diverse community, along with the broader queer community. I provide a safe space for those navigating religious trauma, helping you create meaning outside of those experiences. I understand that life transitions can lead to feelings of grief, which isn’t limited to the loss of loved ones; we can grieve many things throughout our lives.
I specialize in working with clients who have ADHD, autism, and anxiety, as well as members of the transgender and gender-diverse community, along with the broader queer community. I provide a safe space for those navigating religious trauma, helping you create meaning outside of those experiences. I understand that life transitions can lead to feelings of grief, which isn’t limited to the loss of loved ones; we can grieve many things throughout our lives.
(463) 292-1199 View (463) 292-1199
Photo of Mary-Margaret Sweeney, MSW, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary-Margaret Sweeney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
My expertise includes desire discrepancy in couples; mixed sexual orientation relationships; sexual dysfunctions related to aging & medical concerns; supporting transgender clients, particularly through sex & intimacy during transition; sex & intimacy after sexual trauma; & support of those partnered with a survivor of sexual trauma.
Are you and your partner in conflict about sex? Maybe you disagree about how much sex is "enough;" maybe you are feeling rejected or misunderstood by your partner. Maybe a sexual dysfunction or a history of sexual trauma is making sex feel impossible. And now that you have fought about the topic, which is a vulnerable one, solving the problem feels all the more tender and insurmountable. Many life changes can impact our sex lives, and partners can struggle to navigate these changes when they impact our sense of connection, intimacy, and validation. Engaging in sex therapy with your partner can help.
My expertise includes desire discrepancy in couples; mixed sexual orientation relationships; sexual dysfunctions related to aging & medical concerns; supporting transgender clients, particularly through sex & intimacy during transition; sex & intimacy after sexual trauma; & support of those partnered with a survivor of sexual trauma.
Are you and your partner in conflict about sex? Maybe you disagree about how much sex is "enough;" maybe you are feeling rejected or misunderstood by your partner. Maybe a sexual dysfunction or a history of sexual trauma is making sex feel impossible. And now that you have fought about the topic, which is a vulnerable one, solving the problem feels all the more tender and insurmountable. Many life changes can impact our sex lives, and partners can struggle to navigate these changes when they impact our sense of connection, intimacy, and validation. Engaging in sex therapy with your partner can help.
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Photo of Kristen Cole, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist
Kristen Cole
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Additionally, I specialize in working with diverse clientele, including ethnic minorities and individuals identifying as transgender or LGB.
Life is constantly changing, and difficulties inevitably arise. There are times when these difficulties can become so overwhelming that it seems impossible to overcome. I offer help to those who are experiencing various hardships so that they are able to understand the underlying dynamics that are the root cause of their problems, and help them create positive changes in their life. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere my clients are offered a highly personalized approach where they can safely attain the personal growth they are striving for.
Additionally, I specialize in working with diverse clientele, including ethnic minorities and individuals identifying as transgender or LGB.
Life is constantly changing, and difficulties inevitably arise. There are times when these difficulties can become so overwhelming that it seems impossible to overcome. I offer help to those who are experiencing various hardships so that they are able to understand the underlying dynamics that are the root cause of their problems, and help them create positive changes in their life. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere my clients are offered a highly personalized approach where they can safely attain the personal growth they are striving for.
(317) 900-4398 View (317) 900-4398
Photo of Christy Jennings, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Christy Jennings
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a lesbian, I'm also passionate about serving LGBTQIA+ folk, including transgender and non-binary individuals.
Are the relationships and connections in your life struggling? Do you and your partner argue over everything? Do you have issues or concerns related to your sexual orientation or gender identity? My name is Christy and I'm here to work through these and other issues with you. I'm an LGBTQIA+ affirming, inclusive provider utilizing several types of therapy to ensure the care I provide is the care you need. My goal is to walk alongside you on your journey as coauthor as you write the next chapter in your story.
As a lesbian, I'm also passionate about serving LGBTQIA+ folk, including transgender and non-binary individuals.
Are the relationships and connections in your life struggling? Do you and your partner argue over everything? Do you have issues or concerns related to your sexual orientation or gender identity? My name is Christy and I'm here to work through these and other issues with you. I'm an LGBTQIA+ affirming, inclusive provider utilizing several types of therapy to ensure the care I provide is the care you need. My goal is to walk alongside you on your journey as coauthor as you write the next chapter in your story.
(812) 393-2629 View (812) 393-2629
Photo of Carrie A Hunter - New Hope Counseling, LMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
New Hope Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henryville, IN 47126
I am experienced in working with gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals and their families.
I enjoy partnering with people as they make changes in their lives. I recently helped satisfied clients have significantly lowered depression levels, reduced panic attacks, let go of disturbing memories from childhood victimization, learn to successfully manage stressful work situations, speak up for themselves with families & friends, begin new romantic relationships, strengthen their partner relationships, and become more effective and loving parents, among many, many more exciting life ventures.
I am experienced in working with gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals and their families.
I enjoy partnering with people as they make changes in their lives. I recently helped satisfied clients have significantly lowered depression levels, reduced panic attacks, let go of disturbing memories from childhood victimization, learn to successfully manage stressful work situations, speak up for themselves with families & friends, begin new romantic relationships, strengthen their partner relationships, and become more effective and loving parents, among many, many more exciting life ventures.
(502) 437-9987 View (502) 437-9987
Photo of Cindy Quivey, LMHC, Counselor
Cindy Quivey
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, IN 46563
I have been assisting the Transgender community with their concerns by individual meetings and by facilitating group sessions.
I have been working with survivors of PTSD and trauma for some time. My working with domestic violence, sexual assault, and rape survivors has given me experience with trauma and the ramifications it has on someone's life. Currently, I have been working with veterans, from many different wars, on PTSD and how they can regain some normalcy back into their lives. I was recently trained to provide Eye Movement Desensitization Response (EMDR) which increased my capacity to assist individuals with the trauma they have endured.
I have been assisting the Transgender community with their concerns by individual meetings and by facilitating group sessions.
I have been working with survivors of PTSD and trauma for some time. My working with domestic violence, sexual assault, and rape survivors has given me experience with trauma and the ramifications it has on someone's life. Currently, I have been working with veterans, from many different wars, on PTSD and how they can regain some normalcy back into their lives. I was recently trained to provide Eye Movement Desensitization Response (EMDR) which increased my capacity to assist individuals with the trauma they have endured.
(574) 598-4625 View (574) 598-4625
Photo of Dawn Bontrager - Bontrager Therapy Services, LCSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bontrager Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Mishawaka, IN 46545
Treatment areas I specialize in are depression, panic, anxiety, childhood abuse, domestic violence, post traumatic stress disorder, relationship problems, grief and loss, stress management, conflict resolution, and gay/lesbian/bisexual/ transgender issues.
As a therapist I have a passion to help people heal from difficult experiences. Using an integrative approach I work with people to resolve issues that interfere with their ability to live with self-acceptance and peace of mind. This integrative system allows people to organize aspects of their personalities into a coordinated harmonious whole.
Treatment areas I specialize in are depression, panic, anxiety, childhood abuse, domestic violence, post traumatic stress disorder, relationship problems, grief and loss, stress management, conflict resolution, and gay/lesbian/bisexual/ transgender issues.
As a therapist I have a passion to help people heal from difficult experiences. Using an integrative approach I work with people to resolve issues that interfere with their ability to live with self-acceptance and peace of mind. This integrative system allows people to organize aspects of their personalities into a coordinated harmonious whole.
(574) 651-7985 View (574) 651-7985
Photo of Heather Street, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Street
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Waitlist for new clients
I provide therapy for LGBTQ+ adults and individuals processing trauma. I have experience working with a wide range of clients, including transgender and nonbinary individuals, couples, older teens and college-age adults, and survivors of domestic abuse. I also facilitate the Healing Religious Trauma Group.
I provide therapy for LGBTQ+ adults and individuals processing trauma. I have experience working with a wide range of clients, including transgender and nonbinary individuals, couples, older teens and college-age adults, and survivors of domestic abuse. I also facilitate the Healing Religious Trauma Group.
(463) 500-1831 View (463) 500-1831
Photo of Sarah Nevin, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Nevin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Areas of experience include: marriage or partnership / family / friendship / co-worker issues; divorce, dating and adult singlehood challenges; nourishing the creative soul; relationships with food, exercise, energy, and the body; lesbian, gay and transgender issues.
I work with people who want to move from emotional pain, conflict or confusion toward more happiness, peace and passion in their life, work, and relationships. Together, we'll learn to observe repeating life patterns and examine how the past might be influencing your present and future. Our work together can also help you discover and strengthen the creative, emotional, and intuitive resources that can lead you toward more passionate, fulfilling life.
Areas of experience include: marriage or partnership / family / friendship / co-worker issues; divorce, dating and adult singlehood challenges; nourishing the creative soul; relationships with food, exercise, energy, and the body; lesbian, gay and transgender issues.
I work with people who want to move from emotional pain, conflict or confusion toward more happiness, peace and passion in their life, work, and relationships. Together, we'll learn to observe repeating life patterns and examine how the past might be influencing your present and future. Our work together can also help you discover and strengthen the creative, emotional, and intuitive resources that can lead you toward more passionate, fulfilling life.
(317) 662-2862 View (317) 662-2862
Photo of Jennifer E Bradley, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist
Jennifer E Bradley
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47404
My practice includes EMDR therapy and more traditional psychotherapy for clinical concerns including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, LGBTQ-related issues, eating disorders, gender dysphoria, relationship problems, trauma, and grief.
I believe that human beings have an inherent longing and need for wholeness and balance, which is our natural state of being. However, we sometimes encounter damaging or traumatic events or long term stress that interrupt this natural state. When we are imbalanced, we develop psychological and/or physical symptoms, and we begin to use ineffective coping mechanisms. The good news is that with the right tools, these struggles can be used as a path back to the wholeness we seek. Having worked with clients for over twenty years, I know firsthand the power of using our difficulties to point the way towards healing.
My practice includes EMDR therapy and more traditional psychotherapy for clinical concerns including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, LGBTQ-related issues, eating disorders, gender dysphoria, relationship problems, trauma, and grief.
I believe that human beings have an inherent longing and need for wholeness and balance, which is our natural state of being. However, we sometimes encounter damaging or traumatic events or long term stress that interrupt this natural state. When we are imbalanced, we develop psychological and/or physical symptoms, and we begin to use ineffective coping mechanisms. The good news is that with the right tools, these struggles can be used as a path back to the wholeness we seek. Having worked with clients for over twenty years, I know firsthand the power of using our difficulties to point the way towards healing.
(812) 496-5891 View (812) 496-5891
Photo of Cathy Batka - The Highlands Psychology Group, Psychologist
The Highlands Psychology Group
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IN 47408
We specialize in working with clients who have experienced trauma, disordered eating, couples therapy, and working with gay, lesbian, transgender, and queer identified people.
We are accepting new clients! We are a dedicated group of mental health therapists who provide the highest level of services. We have decades of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Our main focus is the care of our clients. We take our time to truly understand what you are experiencing. Through this process, we will also work to help you to notice your feelings and reactions, develop your voice, and when appropriate, share this with key people in your life.
We specialize in working with clients who have experienced trauma, disordered eating, couples therapy, and working with gay, lesbian, transgender, and queer identified people.
We are accepting new clients! We are a dedicated group of mental health therapists who provide the highest level of services. We have decades of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Our main focus is the care of our clients. We take our time to truly understand what you are experiencing. Through this process, we will also work to help you to notice your feelings and reactions, develop your voice, and when appropriate, share this with key people in your life.
(812) 871-4018 View (812) 871-4018
Photo of Julia Pickett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Pickett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender queer or questioning persons are welcome in my practice.
I enjoy working with adults and young adults who are experiencing overwhelm, loss of sense of self, intrusive/unwanted thoughts, repetitive behaviors, worry, self-doubt, perfectionism and stress due to life transitions. I have many adults in my practice who are working to find balance in their close relationships and making changes toward a more fulfilling life. I have specialized training and expertise in treating OCD, skin picking/hair pulling (aka "BFRBs"), ADHD/ASD and supporting parents of adult children with anxiety disorders.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender queer or questioning persons are welcome in my practice.
I enjoy working with adults and young adults who are experiencing overwhelm, loss of sense of self, intrusive/unwanted thoughts, repetitive behaviors, worry, self-doubt, perfectionism and stress due to life transitions. I have many adults in my practice who are working to find balance in their close relationships and making changes toward a more fulfilling life. I have specialized training and expertise in treating OCD, skin picking/hair pulling (aka "BFRBs"), ADHD/ASD and supporting parents of adult children with anxiety disorders.
(502) 501-3646 View (502) 501-3646
Photo of Beth Pictor, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Beth Pictor
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46845
Beth has experience assisting parents of chlidren/adult children with same-sex attraction, homosexual orientation, or who identify as transgender with loving their children as they navigate challenging relationships.
Beth creates a warm, safe, non-judgmental environment for individuals, couples, and families to address their hurt. She partners with her clients to explore their questions, concerns, and pain and to develop a plan to enhance well-being. Beth is trained to address interpersonal concerns, family conflict, relationship issues, as well as mental health disorders such as ADHD, depression, and anxiety. She also works through issues related to grief, loss, betrayal, and deception.
Beth has experience assisting parents of chlidren/adult children with same-sex attraction, homosexual orientation, or who identify as transgender with loving their children as they navigate challenging relationships.
Beth creates a warm, safe, non-judgmental environment for individuals, couples, and families to address their hurt. She partners with her clients to explore their questions, concerns, and pain and to develop a plan to enhance well-being. Beth is trained to address interpersonal concerns, family conflict, relationship issues, as well as mental health disorders such as ADHD, depression, and anxiety. She also works through issues related to grief, loss, betrayal, and deception.
(260) 373-0880 View (260) 373-0880
Photo of Carl Hufford, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carl Hufford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am experienced in helping individuals who are struggling with ADHD/ADD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, anger, gender dysphoria, autism spectrum, addiction, and trauma.
As your therapist I will help you reach your goals by building and empowering you to overcome obstacles while gaining the confidence and knowledge to build on for a stronger future. My hope is to encourage and support you as you work toward your goals and assist you in building skills along the way that are supportive of your individualized needs. I offer a safe and comfortable environment free from judgment and welcoming for all individuals.
I am experienced in helping individuals who are struggling with ADHD/ADD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, anger, gender dysphoria, autism spectrum, addiction, and trauma.
As your therapist I will help you reach your goals by building and empowering you to overcome obstacles while gaining the confidence and knowledge to build on for a stronger future. My hope is to encourage and support you as you work toward your goals and assist you in building skills along the way that are supportive of your individualized needs. I offer a safe and comfortable environment free from judgment and welcoming for all individuals.
(219) 758-7804 View (219) 758-7804
Angela Marshall
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Are sexual issues causing distress in your life? As one of just a few sex therapists certified by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) in Indiana, I have trained extensively in issues related to sexuality. Common problems include those related to sexual functioning (desire, arousal, orgasm), compulsive sexual behavior, intimacy concerns, sexual orientation struggles, and transgender issues. My training is as a Clinical Psychologist first, with specializations in areas of sexual and behavioral health. Preemptive therapy, to explore interpersonal and interpersonal issues before they become too problematic, is also a service I offer.
Are sexual issues causing distress in your life? As one of just a few sex therapists certified by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) in Indiana, I have trained extensively in issues related to sexuality. Common problems include those related to sexual functioning (desire, arousal, orgasm), compulsive sexual behavior, intimacy concerns, sexual orientation struggles, and transgender issues. My training is as a Clinical Psychologist first, with specializations in areas of sexual and behavioral health. Preemptive therapy, to explore interpersonal and interpersonal issues before they become too problematic, is also a service I offer.
(812) 733-4781 View (812) 733-4781
Photo of Jackson (Jack) Garner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jackson (Jack) Garner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you identify as gender diverse/non-conforming? Are you questioning or discovering your gender, do you need a safe space to process gender related concerns, or just seeking a referral letter? Jack is a licensed therapist in the states of IN, KY, TN, & IL. Their practice provides Individual Counseling, Holistic Life Coaching, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and WPATH Referral Letters for medical transition steps (Note: All letters are written per WPATH standards and provided under an Informed Consent Model, meaning just one session with NO additional fees).
Do you identify as gender diverse/non-conforming? Are you questioning or discovering your gender, do you need a safe space to process gender related concerns, or just seeking a referral letter? Jack is a licensed therapist in the states of IN, KY, TN, & IL. Their practice provides Individual Counseling, Holistic Life Coaching, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and WPATH Referral Letters for medical transition steps (Note: All letters are written per WPATH standards and provided under an Informed Consent Model, meaning just one session with NO additional fees).
(317) 953-8823 View (317) 953-8823
Photo of David Michael James, LCSW, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Michael James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Tired of people who just don’t "get” you because you’re different? Looking for someone who will affirm you and your identity? Maybe you need help with depression, anxiety, addiction, or relationship issues but you’re worried about being misunderstood or judged for being queer. Or maybe the issue IS sorting out your sexual orientation or gender identity. As a transman, I get what that feels like. This is a safe space for you. I have more than 25 years of experience in helping people improve their mood and their lives. We'll work on getting you feeling better, even when the world has been less than kind. You deserve no less.
Tired of people who just don’t "get” you because you’re different? Looking for someone who will affirm you and your identity? Maybe you need help with depression, anxiety, addiction, or relationship issues but you’re worried about being misunderstood or judged for being queer. Or maybe the issue IS sorting out your sexual orientation or gender identity. As a transman, I get what that feels like. This is a safe space for you. I have more than 25 years of experience in helping people improve their mood and their lives. We'll work on getting you feeling better, even when the world has been less than kind. You deserve no less.
(317) 360-3942 View (317) 360-3942
Photo of Cassandra Avenatti - Heartland Healing Counseling & Consultation, LCSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heartland Healing Counseling & Consultation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
HHC centers LGBTQ+ and other marginalized communities, working with motivated individuals to build insight, confront obstacles to well-being, and heal trauma to move toward self-actualization & joy. Our team of therapists represent many identities & theoretical perspectives, and work from queer feminist and family systems frameworks. We value self-determination, holistic health, harm reduction, and disability & racial justice. Relationships are built through collaboration, creativity, and recognition of the environmental & cultural factors that impact client's lives. We currently have a fantastic team of 7 providers and an intern.
HHC centers LGBTQ+ and other marginalized communities, working with motivated individuals to build insight, confront obstacles to well-being, and heal trauma to move toward self-actualization & joy. Our team of therapists represent many identities & theoretical perspectives, and work from queer feminist and family systems frameworks. We value self-determination, holistic health, harm reduction, and disability & racial justice. Relationships are built through collaboration, creativity, and recognition of the environmental & cultural factors that impact client's lives. We currently have a fantastic team of 7 providers and an intern.
(812) 799-2069 View (812) 799-2069
Photo of Keight Wrightmire, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keight Wrightmire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47404
Do you find yourself uninterested in viewing your emotional well-being and personhood solely through a pathological lens? Do you want a gentle therapist who believes that you know yourself better than anyone else? Are you interested in integrating your love of knitting, crocheting, mending, or other soft arts into your self-care? Would you like to explore ways that you can use these interests to settle your body, practice mindfulness, or even work through hard things from the past or present? Let’s chat!
Do you find yourself uninterested in viewing your emotional well-being and personhood solely through a pathological lens? Do you want a gentle therapist who believes that you know yourself better than anyone else? Are you interested in integrating your love of knitting, crocheting, mending, or other soft arts into your self-care? Would you like to explore ways that you can use these interests to settle your body, practice mindfulness, or even work through hard things from the past or present? Let’s chat!
(812) 612-3250 View (812) 612-3250
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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.