Transgender Therapists in Michigan

Photo of Anangabii Stewart, Pre-Licensed Professional
Anangabii Stewart
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
My name is Anangabii (uh-nung-uh-bee). I am an enrolled citizen of the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians and am two-spirit/trans nonbinary. I aim to help people of all ages who struggle with adjustments, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, sexuality, gender dysphoria, racial trauma and communication.
My name is Anangabii (uh-nung-uh-bee). I am an enrolled citizen of the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians and am two-spirit/trans nonbinary. I aim to help people of all ages who struggle with adjustments, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, sexuality, gender dysphoria, racial trauma and communication.
(734) 749-9770 View (734) 749-9770
Photo of Rowan Anastasia, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rowan Anastasia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
As a transgender therapist specializing in working w/LGBTQIA+, Autism, ADHD, & Trauma clients, these are the emotions I see clients having difficulty regulating.
Do you ever get a cold isolated feeling when everyone around you seems to know exactly what they want to do in life or at least who they are and how to get there? That stomach-dropping loneliness that leaves you wondering if you’ll ever belong? Or maybe you know what it’s like to stare at an insurmountable mountain between you and who you want to be. So instead you put what everybody else wants and needs first, and hope no one ever asks you these questions because you don’t know what you’d be able to tell them? If so, my name is Rowan Anastasia LLMSW and I am the therapist for you.
As a transgender therapist specializing in working w/LGBTQIA+, Autism, ADHD, & Trauma clients, these are the emotions I see clients having difficulty regulating.
Do you ever get a cold isolated feeling when everyone around you seems to know exactly what they want to do in life or at least who they are and how to get there? That stomach-dropping loneliness that leaves you wondering if you’ll ever belong? Or maybe you know what it’s like to stare at an insurmountable mountain between you and who you want to be. So instead you put what everybody else wants and needs first, and hope no one ever asks you these questions because you don’t know what you’d be able to tell them? If so, my name is Rowan Anastasia LLMSW and I am the therapist for you.
(734) 336-2456 View (734) 336-2456
Photo of Ryver Maddern, LLMSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryver Maddern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I enjoy working with clients who may be struggling with gender identity, gender dysphoria, religious trauma, and/or complex trauma.
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 :)
I enjoy working with clients who may be struggling with gender identity, gender dysphoria, religious trauma, and/or complex trauma.
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 Sam Darrow, MA, LLPC, NCC, Counselor
Sam Darrow
Counselor, MA, LLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Sam is passionate about their work with clients under the LGBTQIA+ umbrella, including those who are experiencing gender dysphoria.
Sam Darrow (they/them/theirs) is a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC) who has earned certification from the National Board of Certified Counselors. They received their Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Western Michigan University. They provide counseling to individuals ages 16 and older, couples, and families.
Sam is passionate about their work with clients under the LGBTQIA+ umbrella, including those who are experiencing gender dysphoria.
Sam Darrow (they/them/theirs) is a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC) who has earned certification from the National Board of Certified Counselors. They received their Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Western Michigan University. They provide counseling to individuals ages 16 and older, couples, and families.
(616) 523-3534 View (616) 523-3534
Photo of Ryan Kunz, LMSW, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan Kunz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a transgender therapist, I understand the value in community and work to build intentional relationships that support your individual growth.
It is hard to seek help especially when you are not feeling 100%, and I recognize the strength it is taking for you in this moment. Maybe you are struggling with family or your support system, acceptance of yourself, coming to terms with sexual orientation or gender identity, motivation, hopelessness, a recent loss, or an overall sense that something has got to give. If you are looking for a space where you are looking for empathetic and identity affirming support, coping skills, gentle guidance, and strategies for managing challenges, you have come to the right place. There is no right way to grow, there is only finding your way.
As a transgender therapist, I understand the value in community and work to build intentional relationships that support your individual growth.
It is hard to seek help especially when you are not feeling 100%, and I recognize the strength it is taking for you in this moment. Maybe you are struggling with family or your support system, acceptance of yourself, coming to terms with sexual orientation or gender identity, motivation, hopelessness, a recent loss, or an overall sense that something has got to give. If you are looking for a space where you are looking for empathetic and identity affirming support, coping skills, gentle guidance, and strategies for managing challenges, you have come to the right place. There is no right way to grow, there is only finding your way.
(313) 513-6658 View (313) 513-6658
Photo of Kris Lewis-Grinwis, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kris Lewis-Grinwis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with LGBQ, Transgender, and consensually nonmonogamous clients; as well as clients in the kink/BDSM community.
Making the decision to change your life can be scary. I'm dedicated to helping others work through difficult choices and helping them move their lives in a positive direction. I want to help you discover patterns and behaviors that have been holding you back, and build skills to make your life better in the future. I use an intersectional trans-inclusive feminist lens and use an eclectic combination of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Behavioral Therapy to help solve problems. Making the decision to seek treatment is the first step. I would love to help you make your life one worth living!
I specialize in working with LGBQ, Transgender, and consensually nonmonogamous clients; as well as clients in the kink/BDSM community.
Making the decision to change your life can be scary. I'm dedicated to helping others work through difficult choices and helping them move their lives in a positive direction. I want to help you discover patterns and behaviors that have been holding you back, and build skills to make your life better in the future. I use an intersectional trans-inclusive feminist lens and use an eclectic combination of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Behavioral Therapy to help solve problems. Making the decision to seek treatment is the first step. I would love to help you make your life one worth living!
(734) 365-7850 View (734) 365-7850
Photo of Radha K Bhatt, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Radha K Bhatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Hi there! 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 provide a Feminist and Multicultural framework centering Pleasure as an everyday experience. I provide somatic and sensorimotor focused work exploring how current or past trauma impacts feeling present in your body and feeling attuned in your relationships. We will also explore how larger oppressive systems can interfere with pleasure.
Hi there! 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 provide a Feminist and Multicultural framework centering Pleasure as an everyday experience. I provide somatic and sensorimotor focused work exploring how current or past trauma impacts feeling present in your body and feeling attuned in your relationships. We will also explore how larger oppressive systems can interfere with pleasure.
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Photo of Matt Gooder, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Gooder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MI 48170
My goal is to create a safe and accepting environment that will allow clients to reflect, heal and grow. As a queer, neurodivergent transgender man, my experiences have directly influenced the personal and professional values that I hold and advocate for. I understand firsthand the importance of holding room for each client’s unique experiences and feelings in order to create a space in which they can be their most authentic selves in exploring difficult, uncomfortable or sensitive topics.
My goal is to create a safe and accepting environment that will allow clients to reflect, heal and grow. As a queer, neurodivergent transgender man, my experiences have directly influenced the personal and professional values that I hold and advocate for. I understand firsthand the importance of holding room for each client’s unique experiences and feelings in order to create a space in which they can be their most authentic selves in exploring difficult, uncomfortable or sensitive topics.
(248) 609-1801 View (248) 609-1801
Photo of Davison Sarai Nicholas, MA, LPC, CAADC, MST-PSB, Counselor
Davison Sarai Nicholas
Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC, MST-PSB
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a transgender woman myself, I understand the unique challenges that face not only trans* clients, but of individuals from all walks of life who are struggling.
It is my personal and professional belief that everyone is capable of discovering their most authentic and successful self, but may occasionally need assistance in their journey to personal enrichment. I have been lucky enough to find those people in my own life, and I consider it an honor to serve that purpose for my clients in a warm, welcoming, yet professional fashion. I respect the individual needs of varying cultural backgrounds, and enjoy finding common ground with varying clientele.
As a transgender woman myself, I understand the unique challenges that face not only trans* clients, but of individuals from all walks of life who are struggling.
It is my personal and professional belief that everyone is capable of discovering their most authentic and successful self, but may occasionally need assistance in their journey to personal enrichment. I have been lucky enough to find those people in my own life, and I consider it an honor to serve that purpose for my clients in a warm, welcoming, yet professional fashion. I respect the individual needs of varying cultural backgrounds, and enjoy finding common ground with varying clientele.
(269) 355-6527 View (269) 355-6527
Photo of Stephen L Rassi, PhD, LMSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephen L Rassi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, MA
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
I have a great deal of experience assisting clients who have anxiety disorders, helping those who have difficulty with focus and concentration, and supporting those who are transgender or gender non-conforming, or who simply have gender identity concerns or who are questioning their gender.
I am a clinical social worker and PhD educator. As a therapist I see clients in person at my private practice in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and by Doxy (like Zoom). In addition, I conduct research on gender diversity, and I have done policy work to change the national recommendations for provision of mental health services to transgender and gender non-conforming people, serving as the lead author of the NASW National Policy on Work with Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Clients.
I have a great deal of experience assisting clients who have anxiety disorders, helping those who have difficulty with focus and concentration, and supporting those who are transgender or gender non-conforming, or who simply have gender identity concerns or who are questioning their gender.
I am a clinical social worker and PhD educator. As a therapist I see clients in person at my private practice in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and by Doxy (like Zoom). In addition, I conduct research on gender diversity, and I have done policy work to change the national recommendations for provision of mental health services to transgender and gender non-conforming people, serving as the lead author of the NASW National Policy on Work with Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Clients.
(734) 629-4380 View (734) 629-4380
Photo of Iris Mapes, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Iris Mapes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
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 Jonelle Tunney, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Jonelle Tunney
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Life is difficult, and sometimes challenges can overwhelm us. In over 20 years of counseling, I have gained a wealth of experience in helping people achieve meaningful growth and a greater sense of well-being. I feel called to help others through periods of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, substance abuse, divorce, disability, trauma, abuse, and issues related to gender identity and sexuality. And as someone who identifies as a transgender female, I am naturally a strong advocate and ally for all those within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Life is difficult, and sometimes challenges can overwhelm us. In over 20 years of counseling, I have gained a wealth of experience in helping people achieve meaningful growth and a greater sense of well-being. I feel called to help others through periods of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, substance abuse, divorce, disability, trauma, abuse, and issues related to gender identity and sexuality. And as someone who identifies as a transgender female, I am naturally a strong advocate and ally for all those within the LGBTQIA+ community.
(616) 404-3754 View (616) 404-3754
Photo of Eli Simmons, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eli Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a transgender Queer person, I also provide a space for other transgender and Queer people to cope with related issues, such as discrimination.
Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or you have spent ages trying to connect with the right fit, everyone is welcome regardless of where they are at in their healing journey. I am a firm believer in my clients being the experts in their life and my role as a therapist is to provide a safe, affirming space for clients to explore and grow. I also believe that there is no one-shoe-fits-all approach to therapy and that each client brings their own knowledge and strengths. No matter what you are experiencing, I am here to help you get where you want to be.
As a transgender Queer person, I also provide a space for other transgender and Queer people to cope with related issues, such as discrimination.
Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or you have spent ages trying to connect with the right fit, everyone is welcome regardless of where they are at in their healing journey. I am a firm believer in my clients being the experts in their life and my role as a therapist is to provide a safe, affirming space for clients to explore and grow. I also believe that there is no one-shoe-fits-all approach to therapy and that each client brings their own knowledge and strengths. No matter what you are experiencing, I am here to help you get where you want to be.
(989) 656-1501 View (989) 656-1501
Photo of Joanna Ransdell, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanna Ransdell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
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 Alexander Eliot Fry, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexander Eliot Fry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Coldwater, MI 49036
I am skilled and trained in Transgender needs, polyamory relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, and much more.
I value working with a variety of different populations and presenting issues. It can be a difficult process finding the right person to talk to openly, my goal is to help create a safe, warm, and respectful environment. I am very passionate about what I do, and my areas of specialization and look forward to helping you become the person you would like to see in all areas of your life. I do also see teens- but at least a few sessions will be family based to better understand the system and the identified problem.
I am skilled and trained in Transgender needs, polyamory relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, and much more.
I value working with a variety of different populations and presenting issues. It can be a difficult process finding the right person to talk to openly, my goal is to help create a safe, warm, and respectful environment. I am very passionate about what I do, and my areas of specialization and look forward to helping you become the person you would like to see in all areas of your life. I do also see teens- but at least a few sessions will be family based to better understand the system and the identified problem.
(517) 923-2518 View (517) 923-2518
Photo of Jack Bartel - The Evergreen Initiative, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
The Evergreen Initiative, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
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 Amy Lynn Ver Wey, MA, LLP, RPT
Amy Lynn Ver Wey
MA, LLP, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
She has held full membership with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health since 2017 and is a WPATH Certified Transgender Health Provider.
Amy (she/her) practices an active and interpersonal approach to therapy, incorporating mindfulness, popular culture, art, music, role playing games and technological aspects to modify her treatment on an individualized basis to best meet the needs of her clients. Amy identifies as a queer therapist and strives to create a genuinely warm and inclusive therapeutic environment based upon empathy, resiliency and a relatable atmosphere to help normalize mental health services.
She has held full membership with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health since 2017 and is a WPATH Certified Transgender Health Provider.
Amy (she/her) practices an active and interpersonal approach to therapy, incorporating mindfulness, popular culture, art, music, role playing games and technological aspects to modify her treatment on an individualized basis to best meet the needs of her clients. Amy identifies as a queer therapist and strives to create a genuinely warm and inclusive therapeutic environment based upon empathy, resiliency and a relatable atmosphere to help normalize mental health services.
(219) 979-6696 View (219) 979-6696
Photo of Natasha Lewis-Grinwis, LMSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natasha Lewis-Grinwis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CST
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have been a certified sex therapist for more than 10 years. I enjoy working with individuals and people in their relationships. I employ a variety of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and person first treatment models to help clients identify and attain their goals. I work extensively with the transgender, pansexual, bisexual, lesbian, and gay communities, as well as with members of the kink community.
I have been a certified sex therapist for more than 10 years. I enjoy working with individuals and people in their relationships. I employ a variety of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and person first treatment models to help clients identify and attain their goals. I work extensively with the transgender, pansexual, bisexual, lesbian, and gay communities, as well as with members of the kink community.
(734) 678-5029 View (734) 678-5029
Photo of Ann Bixler, LLP, ICAADC, RPT
Ann Bixler
LLP, ICAADC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
LGBTQ community including the use of WPATH standards and seeing transgender clients through their process of transformation.
I 've been in private practice since 1997. Throughout that time I have continued to expand on my knowledge and develop specialties in play therapy, working with the LGBTQ community, substance abuse, and trauma including PTSD. I work with clients experiencing anxiety and depression. I see each client as unique and feel honored to join them in their journey towards health and wellness. I am affiliated with organizations that keep me abreast of evidence-based practices for the unique situations that clients bring to therapy.
LGBTQ community including the use of WPATH standards and seeing transgender clients through their process of transformation.
I 've been in private practice since 1997. Throughout that time I have continued to expand on my knowledge and develop specialties in play therapy, working with the LGBTQ community, substance abuse, and trauma including PTSD. I work with clients experiencing anxiety and depression. I see each client as unique and feel honored to join them in their journey towards health and wellness. I am affiliated with organizations that keep me abreast of evidence-based practices for the unique situations that clients bring to therapy.
(616) 312-2470 View (616) 312-2470
Photo of Dr. River Melissa Farrell - Equip Counseling , PsyD, Psychologist
Equip Counseling
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have two primary areas of specialization; First I specialize in working with gender and sexual minorities including gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, gender fluid, and gender non-conforming individuals. In this area I frequently see individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. Secondly I specialize in the treatment of interpersonal relationships.
I have two primary areas of specialization; First I specialize in working with gender and sexual minorities including gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, gender fluid, and gender non-conforming individuals. In this area I frequently see individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. Secondly I specialize in the treatment of interpersonal relationships.
(248) 213-7672 View (248) 213-7672
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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.