Transgender Therapists in Detroit, MI

Photo of Iris Mapes, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Iris Mapes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a transgender woman, I specialize in gender-affirming therapy and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help transform and lessen the negative self-perceptions and shame that often arise when one's identity doesn't fit inside of society's norms.
Currently accepting new clients at no-cost. As a therapist, I base the foundation of my practice on the notion that you are the expert on your own life, and it is my privilege to be invited into your world to be an extra pair of eyes to help you navigate it. I see therapy as an inherently collaborative process, where we explore the ways in which various coping strategies have served you throughout your life, reinforce the strategies that are helpful, and work together to develop and practice new coping strategies for the future.
As a transgender woman, I specialize in gender-affirming therapy and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help transform and lessen the negative self-perceptions and shame that often arise when one's identity doesn't fit inside of society's norms.
Currently accepting new clients at no-cost. As a therapist, I base the foundation of my practice on the notion that you are the expert on your own life, and it is my privilege to be invited into your world to be an extra pair of eyes to help you navigate it. I see therapy as an inherently collaborative process, where we explore the ways in which various coping strategies have served you throughout your life, reinforce the strategies that are helpful, and work together to develop and practice new coping strategies for the future.
(248) 846-1645 View (248) 846-1645
Photo of Radha K Bhatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Radha K Bhatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Radha, I am a sex therapist who provides an affirming space for BIPOC Transgender, Non-binary and Queer/2SLBGIAA+ identified individuals and couples/triads/polycules to explore and understand sex/intimacy/sexual health and gender through trauma informed care.
I am mixed race/multi-ethnic, queer, non-binary person who enjoys focusing on attachment theory, Internal family systems, aspects of CBT, enjoys exploring how feelings are stored in our body using Somatic/Sensorimotor techniques. Weather permitting and upon request- Walking therapy is offered.
My name is Radha, I am a sex therapist who provides an affirming space for BIPOC Transgender, Non-binary and Queer/2SLBGIAA+ identified individuals and couples/triads/polycules to explore and understand sex/intimacy/sexual health and gender through trauma informed care.
I am mixed race/multi-ethnic, queer, non-binary person who enjoys focusing on attachment theory, Internal family systems, aspects of CBT, enjoys exploring how feelings are stored in our body using Somatic/Sensorimotor techniques. Weather permitting and upon request- Walking therapy is offered.
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Photo of Joanna Ransdell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Joanna Ransdell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Additionally, I provide empathic and affirming support to the LGBTQ+ community, specializing in the treatment of gender dysphoria and working with transgender clients.
Whether you are feeling anxious, depressed, or having trouble adjusting to life stressors, professional support can be immensely beneficial. I admire the strength and courage required to take the first step to getting help. Therapy can be a life-changing and transformative experience, and it's a great honor to serve as a guide for those who are on their personal path to healing.
Additionally, I provide empathic and affirming support to the LGBTQ+ community, specializing in the treatment of gender dysphoria and working with transgender clients.
Whether you are feeling anxious, depressed, or having trouble adjusting to life stressors, professional support can be immensely beneficial. I admire the strength and courage required to take the first step to getting help. Therapy can be a life-changing and transformative experience, and it's a great honor to serve as a guide for those who are on their personal path to healing.
(734) 391-6957 View (734) 391-6957
Photo of Jack Bartel - The Evergreen Initiative, LLC, Psychologist, PsyD
The Evergreen Initiative, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
I specialize in LGBTQA+ & transgender/non-binary healthcare (including gender affirming letters of support), habit & lifestyle change (smoking cessation, weight management, sleep, chronic pain, time management/procrastination), helping patients who are having having trouble coping or adjusting to medical conditions & general mental health.
Hi there! I'm Jack and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. My practice The Evergreen Initiative, LLC is 100% virtual. I am PSYPACT certified and able to see patients in the following states: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, ND, NC, OH, OK, PA, RI, TN, TX, UT, VA, WV, WI, WY
I specialize in LGBTQA+ & transgender/non-binary healthcare (including gender affirming letters of support), habit & lifestyle change (smoking cessation, weight management, sleep, chronic pain, time management/procrastination), helping patients who are having having trouble coping or adjusting to medical conditions & general mental health.
Hi there! I'm Jack and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. My practice The Evergreen Initiative, LLC is 100% virtual. I am PSYPACT certified and able to see patients in the following states: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, ND, NC, OH, OK, PA, RI, TN, TX, UT, VA, WV, WI, WY
(689) 210-4095 View (689) 210-4095
Photo of Liz Curtis, Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, CAADC, NCC
Liz Curtis
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, CAADC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I also specialize in LGBTQ+ and women's issues, specifically with transgender clients.
Currently open to new daytime patients! Working from a feminist theoretical perspective, I feel that your unique voice deserves to be believed, be heard, and be taken seriously. I strive to create a trusted space in which you feel comfortable to work through your difficulties without fear of judgment or discrimination. I believe you will find me approachable, down to earth, and friendly!
I also specialize in LGBTQ+ and women's issues, specifically with transgender clients.
Currently open to new daytime patients! Working from a feminist theoretical perspective, I feel that your unique voice deserves to be believed, be heard, and be taken seriously. I strive to create a trusted space in which you feel comfortable to work through your difficulties without fear of judgment or discrimination. I believe you will find me approachable, down to earth, and friendly!
(313) 462-2146 View (313) 462-2146
Photo of Dan Cooke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, ADS
Dan Cooke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, ADS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My experience over the past 20+ years as a therapist includes addressing trauma/PTSD, substance use/abuse and recovery, anxiety, depression, transgender and gender dysphoria, and LGBTQ+ issues for adolescents and adults as an ally.
Seeking a therapist can be a challenge to find the right fit, but when you find it you can work on your behaviors, explore struggles with difficult moods and emotions, and process stress in a non-judgmental environment.
My experience over the past 20+ years as a therapist includes addressing trauma/PTSD, substance use/abuse and recovery, anxiety, depression, transgender and gender dysphoria, and LGBTQ+ issues for adolescents and adults as an ally.
Seeking a therapist can be a challenge to find the right fit, but when you find it you can work on your behaviors, explore struggles with difficult moods and emotions, and process stress in a non-judgmental environment.
(616) 583-3107 View (616) 583-3107
Photo of Skye Monforton, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Skye Monforton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Anxiety, Addiction, Neurodiversity, ADD/ADHD, Cancer, Career , Chronic Illness/Pain, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Emotions, Gender, Legal Concerns, LGBTQ+, Life Transitions, Men’s/Women’s Issues, Mood, Neurodiversity, PTSD, Relationships/Couples, Self Esteem, Substance Use, Transgender & Trauma through an integrative/holistic approach.
Are you weary, fragile and coasting through life, checking all of the boxes? You are masking your true feelings and are not yielding results. You question yourself and are unsure how to move forward. You struggle to manage and overcome difficulties or achieve life goals. Ignoring your intuition and gut feelings to please others causes: attachment to ideas, people or possessions. You are done trying to fit into boxes and expectations. You are ready to honor your unique needs and preferences. Together, we will discover the necessary skills and tools for you to move forward with confidence, balance and a sense of pride.
Anxiety, Addiction, Neurodiversity, ADD/ADHD, Cancer, Career , Chronic Illness/Pain, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Emotions, Gender, Legal Concerns, LGBTQ+, Life Transitions, Men’s/Women’s Issues, Mood, Neurodiversity, PTSD, Relationships/Couples, Self Esteem, Substance Use, Transgender & Trauma through an integrative/holistic approach.
Are you weary, fragile and coasting through life, checking all of the boxes? You are masking your true feelings and are not yielding results. You question yourself and are unsure how to move forward. You struggle to manage and overcome difficulties or achieve life goals. Ignoring your intuition and gut feelings to please others causes: attachment to ideas, people or possessions. You are done trying to fit into boxes and expectations. You are ready to honor your unique needs and preferences. Together, we will discover the necessary skills and tools for you to move forward with confidence, balance and a sense of pride.
(947) 957-5427 View (947) 957-5427
Photo of Paige Kasper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Paige Kasper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
Along with panic, phobias, self-esteem, sexuality, stress, trauma/PTSD, and body, family, identity, intimacy, transgender, and women issues.
Telehealth Therapist: Throughout our lifetime we encounter various transitions and challenges, I believe these experiences hold opportunities for transformation and growth. I believe that you are the expert in your own life and that each person’s journey is unique; therefore, this is not a “one size fits all” therapeutic experience. I strive to assist people in achieving their highest potential for fulfillment and well-being. I aim to assist clients in discovering their authentic selves by providing a trusting and compassionate therapeutic environment where you feel safe engaging in problem-solving and self-discovery.
Along with panic, phobias, self-esteem, sexuality, stress, trauma/PTSD, and body, family, identity, intimacy, transgender, and women issues.
Telehealth Therapist: Throughout our lifetime we encounter various transitions and challenges, I believe these experiences hold opportunities for transformation and growth. I believe that you are the expert in your own life and that each person’s journey is unique; therefore, this is not a “one size fits all” therapeutic experience. I strive to assist people in achieving their highest potential for fulfillment and well-being. I aim to assist clients in discovering their authentic selves by providing a trusting and compassionate therapeutic environment where you feel safe engaging in problem-solving and self-discovery.
(509) 517-7256 View (509) 517-7256
Photo of Deborah Fishman Bienstock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Deborah Fishman Bienstock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy working with adults of all ages and have particular interests in grief and loss, adjustment to illness, issues associated with aging, and transgender health.
Most of my psychotherapy experience has been helping adults understand, manage, and improve depression and anxiety. If you want to feel differently, you have to do things differently. I can support you in the process of finding what those changes will be for you.
I enjoy working with adults of all ages and have particular interests in grief and loss, adjustment to illness, issues associated with aging, and transgender health.
Most of my psychotherapy experience has been helping adults understand, manage, and improve depression and anxiety. If you want to feel differently, you have to do things differently. I can support you in the process of finding what those changes will be for you.
(248) 587-8256 View (248) 587-8256
Photo of Paul Wierzbicki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Paul Wierzbicki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Queer, here, and ready to help you heal! If you're looking for someone to help you identify your strengths, reach a new level of insight about you and who you want to become, plus meet you where you're at; I'm here for you. Problems that I can help with include self-esteem building, anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress management, anger management, grief and loss, and adjustments and acceptance of major events, as well as other problems you may be struggling with. I am trained in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). I can help you identify your thoughts and help provide support forming balanced and adaptive thinking
Queer, here, and ready to help you heal! If you're looking for someone to help you identify your strengths, reach a new level of insight about you and who you want to become, plus meet you where you're at; I'm here for you. Problems that I can help with include self-esteem building, anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress management, anger management, grief and loss, and adjustments and acceptance of major events, as well as other problems you may be struggling with. I am trained in cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). I can help you identify your thoughts and help provide support forming balanced and adaptive thinking
(248) 422-1716 View (248) 422-1716
Photo of J. Bryce Routhier, Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
J. Bryce Routhier
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with something in your life or the world as a whole? Do you need someone who can listen with a nonjudgmental & discerning ear? Have you come to a place in your personal growth where you need help? Are you curious about your identity or need help making that identity a reality? If any of the above describes you, feel free to contact me. My name is Bryce. I am a counselor working in Michigan via Teletherapy. I am also a trans woman. I have spent the last decade learning everything I can to support people with compassion and skills to aid them on their personal journey.
Are you struggling with something in your life or the world as a whole? Do you need someone who can listen with a nonjudgmental & discerning ear? Have you come to a place in your personal growth where you need help? Are you curious about your identity or need help making that identity a reality? If any of the above describes you, feel free to contact me. My name is Bryce. I am a counselor working in Michigan via Teletherapy. I am also a trans woman. I have spent the last decade learning everything I can to support people with compassion and skills to aid them on their personal journey.
(810) 355-4098 View (810) 355-4098
Photo of Zoe Russick Steinfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, CAADC
Zoe Russick Steinfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, CAADC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Available in MI (in-person and virtually) and NC (virtually). You're at a crossroads. Maybe you're ready to take your next steps, and seeking guidance. Maybe you're still doubting whether you could make the changes you know you need in your life, identity, or relationships. Either way, looking here is an expression of hope. I believe anyone can change their life, heal, and grow, if you feel safe enough to be vulnerable, and you have the right support for your needs. What I offer is calm non-judgment, and navigation for healing pain, resolving ambivalence, finding joy, and facing hardships, grounded in your authentic self and values.
Available in MI (in-person and virtually) and NC (virtually). You're at a crossroads. Maybe you're ready to take your next steps, and seeking guidance. Maybe you're still doubting whether you could make the changes you know you need in your life, identity, or relationships. Either way, looking here is an expression of hope. I believe anyone can change their life, heal, and grow, if you feel safe enough to be vulnerable, and you have the right support for your needs. What I offer is calm non-judgment, and navigation for healing pain, resolving ambivalence, finding joy, and facing hardships, grounded in your authentic self and values.
(734) 336-2518 View (734) 336-2518
Photo of Ryan Townes, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Ryan Townes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients - I have a focus in working with adult individuals, 18 and older, struggling with anxiety and/or seeking support with LGBTQ+ related concerns, such as sexual orientation, sexual identity, and dysphoria. If you, or someone you know, is seeking an LGBTQIA+ affirming counselor who also identifies under the spectrum, or is seeking help with substance use related concerns, ADHD, racial identity, grief, or depression, please contact the office and ask for an appointment with Ryan Townes by texting (616)287-2283, or you can also email me.
Accepting New Clients - I have a focus in working with adult individuals, 18 and older, struggling with anxiety and/or seeking support with LGBTQ+ related concerns, such as sexual orientation, sexual identity, and dysphoria. If you, or someone you know, is seeking an LGBTQIA+ affirming counselor who also identifies under the spectrum, or is seeking help with substance use related concerns, ADHD, racial identity, grief, or depression, please contact the office and ask for an appointment with Ryan Townes by texting (616)287-2283, or you can also email me.
(616) 208-5832 View (616) 208-5832
Photo of Ryver Maddern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, MA
Ryver Maddern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My pronouns are they/them and I specialize in LGBTQIA+ care including Gender Identity, Sexuality, and Religious & Complex Trauma. I also write letters of support for medical gender-affirming care, including HRT and top surgery. I have a strong background in intersectional feminism and social justice. Every person deserves to be valued and every person is valuable. I recognize social oppression can't be healed with therapy alone. I have lived experience navigating our society as a visibly trans/queer/lesbian and neurodivergent individual living in Northern Michigan. My wife and I live upstate in a small town with our three cats :)
My pronouns are they/them and I specialize in LGBTQIA+ care including Gender Identity, Sexuality, and Religious & Complex Trauma. I also write letters of support for medical gender-affirming care, including HRT and top surgery. I have a strong background in intersectional feminism and social justice. Every person deserves to be valued and every person is valuable. I recognize social oppression can't be healed with therapy alone. I have lived experience navigating our society as a visibly trans/queer/lesbian and neurodivergent individual living in Northern Michigan. My wife and I live upstate in a small town with our three cats :)
(616) 739-6535 View (616) 739-6535
Photo of Deirdre Church, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deirdre Church
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Reaching out and seeking support for yourself can be extremely vulnerable and taxing, especially when you've already been trying to manage overwhelming emotions and the issues of every day life. Even if we do not end up working together, I am glad that you are out here exploring what kind of help is available to you. Shopping for therapists can be tricky. Wherever you are in your journey, my goal is to meet you there and help you discover safe and inviting possibilities towards your goals. I work well with queer and trans clients who are coming in with relational, developmental, and/or sexual traumas/injuries.
Reaching out and seeking support for yourself can be extremely vulnerable and taxing, especially when you've already been trying to manage overwhelming emotions and the issues of every day life. Even if we do not end up working together, I am glad that you are out here exploring what kind of help is available to you. Shopping for therapists can be tricky. Wherever you are in your journey, my goal is to meet you there and help you discover safe and inviting possibilities towards your goals. I work well with queer and trans clients who are coming in with relational, developmental, and/or sexual traumas/injuries.
(734) 822-4829 View (734) 822-4829
Photo of Ayyur Sutherland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Ayyur Sutherland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Online Only
Welcome! I am honored to do this work and support people on their path to liberation. I have a deep love for and am endlessly inspired and energized by the healing journey. I practice from a transpersonal, feminist, and anti-oppressive lens. Many of my clients are of marginalized identities, especially LGBTQIA+, and many are also neurodiverse. My passion is treating trauma and supporting folx on their path to liberation. Psychedelics have been a critical catalyst in my own healing journey, and so I also offer Ketamine-assisted therapy for those who feel it's a helpful path for them.
Welcome! I am honored to do this work and support people on their path to liberation. I have a deep love for and am endlessly inspired and energized by the healing journey. I practice from a transpersonal, feminist, and anti-oppressive lens. Many of my clients are of marginalized identities, especially LGBTQIA+, and many are also neurodiverse. My passion is treating trauma and supporting folx on their path to liberation. Psychedelics have been a critical catalyst in my own healing journey, and so I also offer Ketamine-assisted therapy for those who feel it's a helpful path for them.
(720) 807-7865 View (720) 807-7865
Photo of Jayelin Parker, Licensed Master Social Worker, LLMSW, MPH
Jayelin Parker
Licensed Master Social Worker, LLMSW, MPH
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal as a therapist is to support clients in connecting to themselves, building resilience, and enhancing their overall well-being using a strengths-based approach. My clients are looking for care regarding sexual health, LGBTQ+ health, women's health, relationship and intimacy concerns, and attachment concerns. I best serve transitional-aged youth and adults. I'm also involved in cat rescue and can't wait to see your furry friends in the background.
My goal as a therapist is to support clients in connecting to themselves, building resilience, and enhancing their overall well-being using a strengths-based approach. My clients are looking for care regarding sexual health, LGBTQ+ health, women's health, relationship and intimacy concerns, and attachment concerns. I best serve transitional-aged youth and adults. I'm also involved in cat rescue and can't wait to see your furry friends in the background.
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Photo of Elizabeth Gonzalez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CYT
Elizabeth Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CYT
10 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide individual and group psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My work with children is specific to gender identity. My clinical work is focused on eating disorders, gender identity, LGBTQQ+ concerns, multicultural counseling, survivors of sexualized violence and trauma. I work with clients through a social justice and holistic health lens that emphasizes the inseparable connection between our mind, body, and environment. My approach to therapy is strength-based and client centered rooted in cultural humility. I incorporate mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and other evidence-based techniques depending upon the goals of each client.
I provide individual and group psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My work with children is specific to gender identity. My clinical work is focused on eating disorders, gender identity, LGBTQQ+ concerns, multicultural counseling, survivors of sexualized violence and trauma. I work with clients through a social justice and holistic health lens that emphasizes the inseparable connection between our mind, body, and environment. My approach to therapy is strength-based and client centered rooted in cultural humility. I incorporate mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and other evidence-based techniques depending upon the goals of each client.
(734) 274-5477 View (734) 274-5477
Photo of Brooke Houser - Eunoia Mental Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eunoia Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life is not an easy thing to do. If you are struggling with unhelpful habits or unwanted thoughts and would like to improve your mental health, we are here to help! Eunoia is a practice with a diverse range of therapists who can help you reach your goals. Our therapists work with a wide range of issues and always lead with compassion and understanding. Your therapist will work with you to provide tools that match your strengths and address barriers as they come. Eunoia Mental Health is grateful to serve those of all religions, races, sexual preferences, genders, and abilities.
Life is not an easy thing to do. If you are struggling with unhelpful habits or unwanted thoughts and would like to improve your mental health, we are here to help! Eunoia is a practice with a diverse range of therapists who can help you reach your goals. Our therapists work with a wide range of issues and always lead with compassion and understanding. Your therapist will work with you to provide tools that match your strengths and address barriers as they come. Eunoia Mental Health is grateful to serve those of all religions, races, sexual preferences, genders, and abilities.
(248) 617-4780 View (248) 617-4780
Photo of Lawrence Jude Tantay - L Tantay, Master Social Worker, LLMSW
L Tantay
Master Social Worker, LLMSW
1 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48235
Hello, I’m Jude. I’m a queer, trans, second-generation Filipina-American therapist here at S.C. Nash Counseling. I work with children, teens, and adults. I understand the weight of navigating a world that wasn’t built for us. For over two decades, I’ve walked alongside folks who’ve been overlooked, people who’ve had to fight to survive and keep going, showing up with resilience and heart. I provide a space where you are seen, heard, and valued. Together, we’ll explore the stories that have shaped you, break down oppressive narratives, and build a path toward healing and self-empowerment. You don’t have to do this alone.
Hello, I’m Jude. I’m a queer, trans, second-generation Filipina-American therapist here at S.C. Nash Counseling. I work with children, teens, and adults. I understand the weight of navigating a world that wasn’t built for us. For over two decades, I’ve walked alongside folks who’ve been overlooked, people who’ve had to fight to survive and keep going, showing up with resilience and heart. I provide a space where you are seen, heard, and valued. Together, we’ll explore the stories that have shaped you, break down oppressive narratives, and build a path toward healing and self-empowerment. You don’t have to do this alone.
(734) 215-3283 View (734) 215-3283

See more therapy options for Detroit

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.