LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Ferndale, MI
Paul Wierzbicki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220 (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
Christina Gallardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220 (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, and working with LGBTQ+ folks.
Do you wake up every morning promising yourself that today will be the day you figure out what you need to feel better, only to lay your head down at night exhausted from repeating the same patterns? Are you stuck in a cycle of anxiety or depression and feel like you are just trying to get through each day? You don’t have to be alone in your pain any longer. Healing and happiness are possible with the help of therapy. As your therapist, I will walk alongside you and together we will examine the roadblocks in your life, identify the skills and tools you need to make changes, and use them to create a happier, fuller life.
I specialize in anxiety, and working with LGBTQ+ folks.
Do you wake up every morning promising yourself that today will be the day you figure out what you need to feel better, only to lay your head down at night exhausted from repeating the same patterns? Are you stuck in a cycle of anxiety or depression and feel like you are just trying to get through each day? You don’t have to be alone in your pain any longer. Healing and happiness are possible with the help of therapy. As your therapist, I will walk alongside you and together we will examine the roadblocks in your life, identify the skills and tools you need to make changes, and use them to create a happier, fuller life.
Josh Curie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
I have extensive experience with a wide range of diverse clients but feel particularly suited to serve the following communities; LGBTQ, HIV+, polyamorous, kink/fetish, substance abuse, mixed-orientation marriages, couples.
While I am full, we have other therapists within the practice who have some availability. Sometimes life throws challenges at us and it is hard to know how to keep moving forward. I see myself as a collaborator in the messiness of life, coming alongside you to help maneuver through challenges and obstacles. I meet you exactly where you are, serving as a supportive person that helps you identify and accomplish your goals. I treat each client as a unique person and do not employ a one size fits all approach. I am direct and non-judgmental and see an equal amount of individuals and couples/groups.
I have extensive experience with a wide range of diverse clients but feel particularly suited to serve the following communities; LGBTQ, HIV+, polyamorous, kink/fetish, substance abuse, mixed-orientation marriages, couples.
While I am full, we have other therapists within the practice who have some availability. Sometimes life throws challenges at us and it is hard to know how to keep moving forward. I see myself as a collaborator in the messiness of life, coming alongside you to help maneuver through challenges and obstacles. I meet you exactly where you are, serving as a supportive person that helps you identify and accomplish your goals. I treat each client as a unique person and do not employ a one size fits all approach. I am direct and non-judgmental and see an equal amount of individuals and couples/groups.
Joel B. Davidson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
I work with individuals who are at various stages of coming out as LGBTQ+.
Warm, kind, compassionate, empathetic and nonjudgmental. These are the qualities that I value and practice as a therapist and educator for over 30 years. Working with pre-teens, teens, young adults and their families to problem solve and fulfill their goals is my life’s work. I have been a teacher, school counselor and now a therapist, working with kids on a variety of issues in their lives. I have a special passion working with LGBTQ+ individuals to help them be their authentic selves, fulfill their dreams, live their lives and follow their journeys at their own pace – and support their parents and families in the process.
I work with individuals who are at various stages of coming out as LGBTQ+.
Warm, kind, compassionate, empathetic and nonjudgmental. These are the qualities that I value and practice as a therapist and educator for over 30 years. Working with pre-teens, teens, young adults and their families to problem solve and fulfill their goals is my life’s work. I have been a teacher, school counselor and now a therapist, working with kids on a variety of issues in their lives. I have a special passion working with LGBTQ+ individuals to help them be their authentic selves, fulfill their dreams, live their lives and follow their journeys at their own pace – and support their parents and families in the process.
Jimmy Dagostino
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220 (Online Only)
My main specialty is the LGBTQ+ community, which I am a member of. I also work with depression, anxiety, trauma, and adults with ADHD or Autism. I have particular experience with non-binary (I myself am non-binary) and transgender individuals, childhood trauma, and addiction. Whoever you are, whatever you're dealing with, my goal and my passion is to help people find their inner strength and get to know themselves. I want to help you trust yourself, rely on yourself, and to help you learn how to not just overcome your challenges but go beyond that and become the best version of yourself you can be because you deserve that.
My main specialty is the LGBTQ+ community, which I am a member of. I also work with depression, anxiety, trauma, and adults with ADHD or Autism. I have particular experience with non-binary (I myself am non-binary) and transgender individuals, childhood trauma, and addiction. Whoever you are, whatever you're dealing with, my goal and my passion is to help people find their inner strength and get to know themselves. I want to help you trust yourself, rely on yourself, and to help you learn how to not just overcome your challenges but go beyond that and become the best version of yourself you can be because you deserve that.
I am a queer, nonmongamous neurodivergent myself so I know those identities best but I am also trained to work with other marginalized identities such as ethnic/racial minorities, people with physical disabilities, pagans or other religious minorities and people living with HIV.
I specialize in neurodivergent, queer and other marginalized individuals. People with different neurotypes, including plurality/DID and especially ADHD and autism, trying to better adapt to an inaccessible world are a good fit. Queer clients are a good fit whether trying to address issues like anxiety, depression and trauma or if they're trying to figure out their identity. Polyamorous clients are also well-suited.
I am a queer, nonmongamous neurodivergent myself so I know those identities best but I am also trained to work with other marginalized identities such as ethnic/racial minorities, people with physical disabilities, pagans or other religious minorities and people living with HIV.
I specialize in neurodivergent, queer and other marginalized individuals. People with different neurotypes, including plurality/DID and especially ADHD and autism, trying to better adapt to an inaccessible world are a good fit. Queer clients are a good fit whether trying to address issues like anxiety, depression and trauma or if they're trying to figure out their identity. Polyamorous clients are also well-suited.
Hope Marie Doucet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
" As a pan/ lesbian person, I come from a place of non-judgement, open mindedness, and kindness.
What dreams do you want to manifest? What does your inner child want you to know? What parts of yourself want to be awakened? The prolonged impacts of trauma can feel like looking into a distorted mirror and wondering, "Who am I?" Wherever you are in life, I meet you with guidance to empower you to reject a false self so that your true self is accepted. Accepting yourself may mean accepting your feelings, identity, perspective, values, and authentic inner nature! I believe you have the power within to manifest changes in your unique reality. I primarily work with LGBTQ+ people, trauma survivors, children, youth, and young adults.
" As a pan/ lesbian person, I come from a place of non-judgement, open mindedness, and kindness.
What dreams do you want to manifest? What does your inner child want you to know? What parts of yourself want to be awakened? The prolonged impacts of trauma can feel like looking into a distorted mirror and wondering, "Who am I?" Wherever you are in life, I meet you with guidance to empower you to reject a false self so that your true self is accepted. Accepting yourself may mean accepting your feelings, identity, perspective, values, and authentic inner nature! I believe you have the power within to manifest changes in your unique reality. I primarily work with LGBTQ+ people, trauma survivors, children, youth, and young adults.
Stephanie DiPonio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220 (Online Only)
I am passionate about social justice and I bring a queer and intersectional feminist lens to all the work I do.
I believe that therapy is a process for self-exploration and healing. My goal is to create an inclusive safe space for you to be your authentic self and we can work on your goals together. My knowledge and specialties include gender and sexuality, intuitive eating, sexual health, non-monogamy/polyamory, kink/BDSM, sexual and relationship violence, and attachment theory. I aim to affirm individual needs and experiences while maintaining an awareness of how structural issues, societal expectations, and community connections uniquely impact each person.
I am passionate about social justice and I bring a queer and intersectional feminist lens to all the work I do.
I believe that therapy is a process for self-exploration and healing. My goal is to create an inclusive safe space for you to be your authentic self and we can work on your goals together. My knowledge and specialties include gender and sexuality, intuitive eating, sexual health, non-monogamy/polyamory, kink/BDSM, sexual and relationship violence, and attachment theory. I aim to affirm individual needs and experiences while maintaining an awareness of how structural issues, societal expectations, and community connections uniquely impact each person.
Taylor Eastman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220 (Online Only)
I have worked with adult individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ issues, OCD, substance use/addiction, life transitions, and stress.
I strive to create a non-judgmental and affirming space for growth and healing. Please reach out if you are interested in setting up a time to meet to see if we would be a good fit!
I have worked with adult individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ issues, OCD, substance use/addiction, life transitions, and stress.
I strive to create a non-judgmental and affirming space for growth and healing. Please reach out if you are interested in setting up a time to meet to see if we would be a good fit!
Jasper H Wurster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MAAT, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220 (Online Only)
Several of my lived identities help clients feel connected during our work, such as: transgender, nonbinary, first gen biracial Asian, queer, Autistic/neurodivergent, ADHDer, birthing parent.
Do you feel stuck, unmotivated, or not like "yourself"? I'm here to help you find peace of mind, freedom, & personal relief to take charge of your life. I'm an Integrative Internal Family Systems counselor & Adlerian art therapist, with 12+ years of experience, who excels in addressing mood shifts, anxiety, work-life balance, grief, & trauma. I listen with an insightful, patient disposition and an engaging, compassionate heart when we talk about your values, identities, and challenges. Together, we approach obstacles to discover new solutions & apply intuitive skill sets, gaining newfound confidence, authenticity, & wholeness.
Several of my lived identities help clients feel connected during our work, such as: transgender, nonbinary, first gen biracial Asian, queer, Autistic/neurodivergent, ADHDer, birthing parent.
Do you feel stuck, unmotivated, or not like "yourself"? I'm here to help you find peace of mind, freedom, & personal relief to take charge of your life. I'm an Integrative Internal Family Systems counselor & Adlerian art therapist, with 12+ years of experience, who excels in addressing mood shifts, anxiety, work-life balance, grief, & trauma. I listen with an insightful, patient disposition and an engaging, compassionate heart when we talk about your values, identities, and challenges. Together, we approach obstacles to discover new solutions & apply intuitive skill sets, gaining newfound confidence, authenticity, & wholeness.
Kaitlin Vens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
I have specialized training in working with folks of the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you feel that you are overwhelmed, unfulfilled and searching for peace, belonging and acceptance - it can be the loneliest feeling in the world. You don't have to navigate these challenges alone. Through our work together, we will make progress identifying those issues that are holding you back from the life you want. As a person-centered therapist skilled in cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral approaches, I will help you understand yourself more deeply and create strategies to create the life and relationships you wish for. I will be there with you to celebrate your progress and encourage your continued work.
I have specialized training in working with folks of the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you feel that you are overwhelmed, unfulfilled and searching for peace, belonging and acceptance - it can be the loneliest feeling in the world. You don't have to navigate these challenges alone. Through our work together, we will make progress identifying those issues that are holding you back from the life you want. As a person-centered therapist skilled in cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral approaches, I will help you understand yourself more deeply and create strategies to create the life and relationships you wish for. I will be there with you to celebrate your progress and encourage your continued work.
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Dr. Ellie Tripp
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220 (Online Only)
As a queer psychologist, I’m passionate about providing an affirming space for you to grow more fully into your authentic self, where you don't have to be "on" and can exhale.
You just can't take it anymore. You are juggling so much, taking care of everything for everyone, and you feel like you're ready to snap! The anxiety and pressure are becoming too much. Your mind won't stop racing, you're having trouble sleeping, and you end up crying in your car from the overwhelm. You wonder what's wrong with you and how others make it look so easy. You have a hard time trusting yourself and prioritizing what you want and need - hell, you don't even know how to do that! You feel too guilty to put yourself first, but you know you need some balance in your life. You want to relax but wonder - am I asking too much?
As a queer psychologist, I’m passionate about providing an affirming space for you to grow more fully into your authentic self, where you don't have to be "on" and can exhale.
You just can't take it anymore. You are juggling so much, taking care of everything for everyone, and you feel like you're ready to snap! The anxiety and pressure are becoming too much. Your mind won't stop racing, you're having trouble sleeping, and you end up crying in your car from the overwhelm. You wonder what's wrong with you and how others make it look so easy. You have a hard time trusting yourself and prioritizing what you want and need - hell, you don't even know how to do that! You feel too guilty to put yourself first, but you know you need some balance in your life. You want to relax but wonder - am I asking too much?
Are you struggling with your sexual orientation and/or gender identity? Do feel isolated within the LGBTQIA community? Are your mental health symptoms (i.e. depression, anxiety, mood instability, insomnia, addiction, low self-esteem, poor body image) holding you back from fulfilling your dreams? Is trauma/PTSD ruining your life and your relationships? Do you often wonder how to help yourself? You may feel alone, isolated and withdrawn. Your challenges are not insurmountable! There is real help and the biggest step is to ask. There is no shame in asking for help. Be free from addiction, mental health and relationship struggles.
Are you struggling with your sexual orientation and/or gender identity? Do feel isolated within the LGBTQIA community? Are your mental health symptoms (i.e. depression, anxiety, mood instability, insomnia, addiction, low self-esteem, poor body image) holding you back from fulfilling your dreams? Is trauma/PTSD ruining your life and your relationships? Do you often wonder how to help yourself? You may feel alone, isolated and withdrawn. Your challenges are not insurmountable! There is real help and the biggest step is to ask. There is no shame in asking for help. Be free from addiction, mental health and relationship struggles.
Rosemary A. Jozwiak, and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LPC, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220
Jozwiak and Associates is a heart-centered, non-judgmental approach that creates a comfortable safe environment for each person to begin the journey towards transforming their life situation.
Rosemary A. Jozwiak and Associates have over 25 years of experience and specializations in the areas of: trauma, resulting from childhood sexual abuse, emotional and physical abuse. Struggles with depression, anxiety, addiction, anger management, grief and loss, life transitions, child and adolescent issues, parenting challenges, women’s issues, sexual identity, self esteem, relationship challenges, divorce or breakup recovery, health and wellness, chronic illness, learning disabilities, self-harming behavior, LGBTQIA life struggles, gender confusion, transgender transitioning plus relevant issues for their family members.
Jozwiak and Associates is a heart-centered, non-judgmental approach that creates a comfortable safe environment for each person to begin the journey towards transforming their life situation.
Rosemary A. Jozwiak and Associates have over 25 years of experience and specializations in the areas of: trauma, resulting from childhood sexual abuse, emotional and physical abuse. Struggles with depression, anxiety, addiction, anger management, grief and loss, life transitions, child and adolescent issues, parenting challenges, women’s issues, sexual identity, self esteem, relationship challenges, divorce or breakup recovery, health and wellness, chronic illness, learning disabilities, self-harming behavior, LGBTQIA life struggles, gender confusion, transgender transitioning plus relevant issues for their family members.
If you are looking for a queer and nonbinary therapist to support you, help you develop skills to improve your life and feelings, and help you reach your goals, please contact me via phone or email.
Are you part of the LGBTQ+ community, feeling isolated and like no one understands you? Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, or finding difficulty relating with family and friends? Are you discovering your identity and navigating personal and emotional challenges that come with that process? It can be very difficult to feel connected to loved ones if they don’t understand every part of you, and the emotions that follow can be hard to navigate alone. I can work with you and provide you the support you need to cope with your emotions; to understand and value your identity; and transition into living authentically.
If you are looking for a queer and nonbinary therapist to support you, help you develop skills to improve your life and feelings, and help you reach your goals, please contact me via phone or email.
Are you part of the LGBTQ+ community, feeling isolated and like no one understands you? Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, or finding difficulty relating with family and friends? Are you discovering your identity and navigating personal and emotional challenges that come with that process? It can be very difficult to feel connected to loved ones if they don’t understand every part of you, and the emotions that follow can be hard to navigate alone. I can work with you and provide you the support you need to cope with your emotions; to understand and value your identity; and transition into living authentically.
Melissa Hill
Counselor, MA, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
Waitlist for new clients
I am a queer, neurodivergent practitioner.
With a curious, collaborative, warm, and direct perspective, I help LGBTQIA+ adults working through trauma, anxiety, stress, depression, and identity exploration. Everyone has a unique story, perspective, and experience. Sometimes it helps to have someone walk with us to explore our identity, work through life challenges or traumas, and to find fulfillment. What do you want to do in your life? Where do you want to go? How do you want to be true to yourself? I have some maps to suggest, but you have the power to choose the one best for you.
I am a queer, neurodivergent practitioner.
With a curious, collaborative, warm, and direct perspective, I help LGBTQIA+ adults working through trauma, anxiety, stress, depression, and identity exploration. Everyone has a unique story, perspective, and experience. Sometimes it helps to have someone walk with us to explore our identity, work through life challenges or traumas, and to find fulfillment. What do you want to do in your life? Where do you want to go? How do you want to be true to yourself? I have some maps to suggest, but you have the power to choose the one best for you.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ clients and others who have been impacted by marginalization, including those with chronic mental health conditions.
The paradoxical theory of change says that "change happens when a person becomes what they are, not when they try to become what they are not.” I guide my clients to the mirror and help them to squarely face themselves- their strengths, weaknesses, past traumas and future hopes- and know that they are good enough. From that place of self-compassion we can determine the right tools to support you as you set off on a life path that deeply motivates and satisfies you.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ clients and others who have been impacted by marginalization, including those with chronic mental health conditions.
The paradoxical theory of change says that "change happens when a person becomes what they are, not when they try to become what they are not.” I guide my clients to the mirror and help them to squarely face themselves- their strengths, weaknesses, past traumas and future hopes- and know that they are good enough. From that place of self-compassion we can determine the right tools to support you as you set off on a life path that deeply motivates and satisfies you.
J O'Leary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220 (Online Only)
My undergraduate studies include majors in Anthropology and Gender Studies, as well as a certificate in LGBTQ Studies.
I believe that therapeutic change comes from the process of building and maintaining relationships while remaining connected to our sense of self, including within the therapy room. I work primarily from a relational and psychodynamic stance, meaning that I am interested in how your past experiences impact you in the present. My approach to therapy is also informed by attachment patterns (how we act and feel in relationships) and somatic sensations (what our body is telling us about our environment).
My undergraduate studies include majors in Anthropology and Gender Studies, as well as a certificate in LGBTQ Studies.
I believe that therapeutic change comes from the process of building and maintaining relationships while remaining connected to our sense of self, including within the therapy room. I work primarily from a relational and psychodynamic stance, meaning that I am interested in how your past experiences impact you in the present. My approach to therapy is also informed by attachment patterns (how we act and feel in relationships) and somatic sensations (what our body is telling us about our environment).
Nick Salisbury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ferndale, MI 48220
As a Fat, Queer, Non-Binary clinician, I know the power that lived experience can bring to a session.
Can you imagine the relief you will feel when you are no longer carrying the burdens you have held for so long? Being able to have a peaceful loving relationship with food and your body. Coping with stressors without alcohol or drugs. Not having daily panic attacks. I know it may feel impossible but I watch incredible people do this work every day. You can too! I am also available to write a letter to support gender affirming care, clinical supervision for LLMSW, and consultation through a liberation lens.
As a Fat, Queer, Non-Binary clinician, I know the power that lived experience can bring to a session.
Can you imagine the relief you will feel when you are no longer carrying the burdens you have held for so long? Being able to have a peaceful loving relationship with food and your body. Coping with stressors without alcohol or drugs. Not having daily panic attacks. I know it may feel impossible but I watch incredible people do this work every day. You can too! I am also available to write a letter to support gender affirming care, clinical supervision for LLMSW, and consultation through a liberation lens.
RISE
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, CST
Verified Verified
Ferndale, MI 48220 (Online Only)
RISE - Resilient Inclusive Sexual Health Education & Therapy. The framework/lens from which RISE operates are vital components to the practice. RISE unapologetically upholds the following values; to challenge systems of oppression & create positive change in the world through disseminating radical compassion & support for those folxs/communities often marginalized. A Social Justice Lens - Anti Racist - LGBTQ+ Queer Affirming - Trans/Non-binary/GNC - Feminist - Sex Positive - KINK/BDSM - Fat Positive/Health at Every Size - Consensual Non-Monogamy - Disability/Neurodiversity - Intersectional Identities.
RISE - Resilient Inclusive Sexual Health Education & Therapy. The framework/lens from which RISE operates are vital components to the practice. RISE unapologetically upholds the following values; to challenge systems of oppression & create positive change in the world through disseminating radical compassion & support for those folxs/communities often marginalized. A Social Justice Lens - Anti Racist - LGBTQ+ Queer Affirming - Trans/Non-binary/GNC - Feminist - Sex Positive - KINK/BDSM - Fat Positive/Health at Every Size - Consensual Non-Monogamy - Disability/Neurodiversity - Intersectional Identities.
See more therapy options for Ferndale
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Ferndale
- Berkley
- Clawson
- Hamtramck
- Hazel Park
- Huntington Woods
- Lathrup Village
- Madison Heights
- Oak Park
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LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.