LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Michael Garber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Michael Garber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people often face additional concerns when choosing a mental health professional due to past discrimination.
I stress the importance of a strong, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. My approach depends on each person's goals. My approach is exploratory and less structured for those with general concerns about identity issues, transitions, or relationships. For those seeking a resolution of a particular problem (e.g., depression, PTSD, OCD), I take a structured, goal-oriented approach. I have advanced training in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, and personality disorders. I often utilize EMDR for trauma, DBT for emotional dysregulation, and exposure therapy for anxiety disorders.
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people often face additional concerns when choosing a mental health professional due to past discrimination.
I stress the importance of a strong, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. My approach depends on each person's goals. My approach is exploratory and less structured for those with general concerns about identity issues, transitions, or relationships. For those seeking a resolution of a particular problem (e.g., depression, PTSD, OCD), I take a structured, goal-oriented approach. I have advanced training in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, and personality disorders. I often utilize EMDR for trauma, DBT for emotional dysregulation, and exposure therapy for anxiety disorders.
(202) 925-8545 View (202) 925-8545
Photo of Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, Sex, Therapi
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I am the owner and CEO of the Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness (CCPW). We provide individual, group, couples, family therapy, psychological testing, psychiatry, dietitians, acupuncture, personal training, massage therapy, and teaching. Our approach to care is client centered. We help to figure out your unique individual needs and tailor treatment to you. I am a clinical psychologist, certified sex therapist, and completing a PhD in Sexology. I specialize in working with all things sex related, LGBTQ+, social justice, mood disorders, eating concerns, body image, relationships, couples counseling, and group therapy.
I am the owner and CEO of the Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness (CCPW). We provide individual, group, couples, family therapy, psychological testing, psychiatry, dietitians, acupuncture, personal training, massage therapy, and teaching. Our approach to care is client centered. We help to figure out your unique individual needs and tailor treatment to you. I am a clinical psychologist, certified sex therapist, and completing a PhD in Sexology. I specialize in working with all things sex related, LGBTQ+, social justice, mood disorders, eating concerns, body image, relationships, couples counseling, and group therapy.
(202) 759-6364 View (202) 759-6364
Photo of Miranda Jean, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Miranda Jean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
As an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, I create a space where clients feel respected, understood and accepted for who they are, without judgment or bias.
Are you struggling with your sexuality or gender identity? Do you need help coming out? Is dating creating a lot of anxiety for you? If so, you've come to the right place. I'm a queer-identifying therapist with the knowledge and lived experience to help clients within the LGBTQ+ community and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. Working from a strength-based and person-centered foundation, I help adults with anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and life transitions.
As an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, I create a space where clients feel respected, understood and accepted for who they are, without judgment or bias.
Are you struggling with your sexuality or gender identity? Do you need help coming out? Is dating creating a lot of anxiety for you? If so, you've come to the right place. I'm a queer-identifying therapist with the knowledge and lived experience to help clients within the LGBTQ+ community and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. Working from a strength-based and person-centered foundation, I help adults with anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and life transitions.
(833) 559-3151 View (833) 559-3151
Photo of David Pennington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
David Pennington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011
I have worked extensively with young adults, folks who identify as LGBTQ+, and people experiencing grief or loss.
I work with adults experiencing a wide range of issues, from anxiety, depression and trauma to relationship issues, personal identity, and life transitions or grief. Therapy can help you get unstuck in any of these areas, support you in creating your own life story, and assist you in feeling better and more in control.
I have worked extensively with young adults, folks who identify as LGBTQ+, and people experiencing grief or loss.
I work with adults experiencing a wide range of issues, from anxiety, depression and trauma to relationship issues, personal identity, and life transitions or grief. Therapy can help you get unstuck in any of these areas, support you in creating your own life story, and assist you in feeling better and more in control.
(202) 851-2670 View (202) 851-2670
Photo of William G McVey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
William G McVey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I have been in the field since 2013 providing psychotherapy regarding LGBTQ+ issues, addiction, sex, couples therapy, trauma, anger management, grief, adjustment issues, and mood disorders.
Life's journey can be intricate, layered, and unpredictable, often leaving us overwhelmed by anxiety and depression. As a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Clinical Sexology, I specialize in helping individuals regain control and find fulfillment. With a trauma-informed and integrative approach, including EMDR and cognitive-based therapy, I empower clients to transform their lives. Let's embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery together.
I have been in the field since 2013 providing psychotherapy regarding LGBTQ+ issues, addiction, sex, couples therapy, trauma, anger management, grief, adjustment issues, and mood disorders.
Life's journey can be intricate, layered, and unpredictable, often leaving us overwhelmed by anxiety and depression. As a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Clinical Sexology, I specialize in helping individuals regain control and find fulfillment. With a trauma-informed and integrative approach, including EMDR and cognitive-based therapy, I empower clients to transform their lives. Let's embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery together.
(202) 915-2081 View (202) 915-2081
Photo of Gotel & Thrive, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Gotel & Thrive, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Gotel & Thrive is the restorative space for queer and heterosexual men of color, women of color, and children & youth of diverse backgrounds to undo the thinking and behaviors that block joy and provide tools to cope when life forces you to pivot.
You are trying to shine bright like a diamond and have the things most of us desire for a good life. But there is something dimming your brilliance—it constricts you. You know, those feelings of doubt, dread, disgruntlement, desperation, or despair. Like that constant wondering about whether you are viewed as competent at work; like that disappointment you cover up with food, drink or overachieving because you haven’t met “the one;” like that hurt you carry from a past that shamed you or the depths of grief; or like the helplessness feel when your child is struggling.
Gotel & Thrive is the restorative space for queer and heterosexual men of color, women of color, and children & youth of diverse backgrounds to undo the thinking and behaviors that block joy and provide tools to cope when life forces you to pivot.
You are trying to shine bright like a diamond and have the things most of us desire for a good life. But there is something dimming your brilliance—it constricts you. You know, those feelings of doubt, dread, disgruntlement, desperation, or despair. Like that constant wondering about whether you are viewed as competent at work; like that disappointment you cover up with food, drink or overachieving because you haven’t met “the one;” like that hurt you carry from a past that shamed you or the depths of grief; or like the helplessness feel when your child is struggling.
(202) 980-2433 View (202) 980-2433
Photo of Joseph Kosowsky, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Joseph Kosowsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in affirming work with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Do you feel like life has become more challenging? Have you begun to feel less fulfilled or feel like something is wrong? People seek therapy at various stages of their life to address their challenges. Sometimes you might know why, and other times it can be confusing or difficult to pinpoint. Therapy not only can help you understand your sources of stress but also to improve symptoms that prevent you from feeling your best. Together, we will work to support you, face challenges within yourself, work towards your goals, and, most importantly, improve your own sense of a life that is meaningful and fulfilled.
I specialize in affirming work with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Do you feel like life has become more challenging? Have you begun to feel less fulfilled or feel like something is wrong? People seek therapy at various stages of their life to address their challenges. Sometimes you might know why, and other times it can be confusing or difficult to pinpoint. Therapy not only can help you understand your sources of stress but also to improve symptoms that prevent you from feeling your best. Together, we will work to support you, face challenges within yourself, work towards your goals, and, most importantly, improve your own sense of a life that is meaningful and fulfilled.
(202) 831-4943 View (202) 831-4943
Photo of DeLante Fludd, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
DeLante Fludd
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
I'm a Washington, DC Native with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Trinity Washington University. I have developed a passion for combining my 10+ years of experience in the arts with helping individuals meet their mental health and wellness goals in a counseling setting. I am passionate about the experience of gender diverse and members of the LGBTQ+ community, I believe every individual is unique and their worldview should be validated.
I'm a Washington, DC Native with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Trinity Washington University. I have developed a passion for combining my 10+ years of experience in the arts with helping individuals meet their mental health and wellness goals in a counseling setting. I am passionate about the experience of gender diverse and members of the LGBTQ+ community, I believe every individual is unique and their worldview should be validated.
(202) 831-7830 View (202) 831-7830
Photo of Dallas Williams-Sierra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Dallas Williams-Sierra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I recognize that LGBTQ persons have unique challenges and may face additional obstacles when choosing a psychotherapist.
*At this time, I am only accepting new clients for EMDR treatment* Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
I recognize that LGBTQ persons have unique challenges and may face additional obstacles when choosing a psychotherapist.
*At this time, I am only accepting new clients for EMDR treatment* Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
(202) 556-3451 View (202) 556-3451
Photo of Nakea Jeffers, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Nakea Jeffers
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW, CYT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Moving through the ups and downs of life can be challenging. You might feel uncertain about who you are or where you are going. You might feel lonely or misunderstood. Maybe you feel stuck trying to move past painful experiences. Let’s work together to create a path toward healing, growth, and self-acceptance. I recognize how difficult it can be to find a therapist who gets it. I warmly welcome people from the queer community, black people, and people of color to contact me for services. Whether you are exploring your identity, navigating relationships, or feeling isolated.
Moving through the ups and downs of life can be challenging. You might feel uncertain about who you are or where you are going. You might feel lonely or misunderstood. Maybe you feel stuck trying to move past painful experiences. Let’s work together to create a path toward healing, growth, and self-acceptance. I recognize how difficult it can be to find a therapist who gets it. I warmly welcome people from the queer community, black people, and people of color to contact me for services. Whether you are exploring your identity, navigating relationships, or feeling isolated.
(202) 845-7629 View (202) 845-7629
Photo of Paul El-Meouchy, Counselor in Washington, DC
Paul El-Meouchy
Counselor, MA, LPA, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I work with LGBTQIA+ and heterosexual couples and individuals, as well as members of the military, veterans, and BIPOC communities (including Arab/Middle-Eastern & North African).
Sometimes, we feel sad, angry, frustrated, disappointed, hurt, or find ourselves repeating patterns, but we are not sure why. Whether it's relationship or work issues, life can throw us curveballs. I look forward to working with those who need guidance, regardless of whether you have been in therapy before or just trying it out; together, we can uncover new pathways to your well-being.
I work with LGBTQIA+ and heterosexual couples and individuals, as well as members of the military, veterans, and BIPOC communities (including Arab/Middle-Eastern & North African).
Sometimes, we feel sad, angry, frustrated, disappointed, hurt, or find ourselves repeating patterns, but we are not sure why. Whether it's relationship or work issues, life can throw us curveballs. I look forward to working with those who need guidance, regardless of whether you have been in therapy before or just trying it out; together, we can uncover new pathways to your well-being.
(844) 987-4171 View (844) 987-4171
Photo of Glen Bradley, Counselor in Washington, DC
Glen Bradley
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037
Stop scrolling if you're looking for a therapist who is queer and specializes in trauma and LGBTQ+ affirming therapy. Imagine having a therapist who gets you, trusts you to know yourself, and who doesn't need you to constantly explain queer culture. We are sparks of authenticity, joy, and zest! No two of us are alike. And yet, our community shares many themes: identity-based trauma, religious trauma, "missing out" on our childhood, "getting stuck" on pleasing others, limiting ourselves, delaying relationships, balancing other sources of identity, and–even after you've come out–feeling like something is still left unresolved.
Stop scrolling if you're looking for a therapist who is queer and specializes in trauma and LGBTQ+ affirming therapy. Imagine having a therapist who gets you, trusts you to know yourself, and who doesn't need you to constantly explain queer culture. We are sparks of authenticity, joy, and zest! No two of us are alike. And yet, our community shares many themes: identity-based trauma, religious trauma, "missing out" on our childhood, "getting stuck" on pleasing others, limiting ourselves, delaying relationships, balancing other sources of identity, and–even after you've come out–feeling like something is still left unresolved.
(202) 900-3971 x5 View (202) 900-3971 x5
Photo of Jason Nicholsen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jason Nicholsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
I have a professional focus in working with members of LGBTQIA communities.
I started this virtual-based therapy practice so that I could connect with individuals struggling to feel connected in their lives. There are no judgements. Together, we can explore the resilience and strength you already have and take action towards a richer, fuller life.  I have a Master's degree in Social Work from New York University and utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with an eclectic mix of other evidence-informed interventions to support you and your goals.
I have a professional focus in working with members of LGBTQIA communities.
I started this virtual-based therapy practice so that I could connect with individuals struggling to feel connected in their lives. There are no judgements. Together, we can explore the resilience and strength you already have and take action towards a richer, fuller life.  I have a Master's degree in Social Work from New York University and utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with an eclectic mix of other evidence-informed interventions to support you and your goals.
(202) 568-8621 View (202) 568-8621
Photo of Kris Oseth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Kris Oseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I work with clients of all backgrounds, while specializing in following areas: LGBTQ+, Transgender/Gender-Diverse/Non-binary transitioning process and identity; kink/poly/non-monogamous relationships, sex work, substance use/misuse – goals for sobriety/recovery or harm reduction, out of control sexual behavior, anxiety/trauma, Personal Training, EMDR.
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
I work with clients of all backgrounds, while specializing in following areas: LGBTQ+, Transgender/Gender-Diverse/Non-binary transitioning process and identity; kink/poly/non-monogamous relationships, sex work, substance use/misuse – goals for sobriety/recovery or harm reduction, out of control sexual behavior, anxiety/trauma, Personal Training, EMDR.
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
(202) 759-8060 View (202) 759-8060
Photo of Jerry St Louis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jerry St Louis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20019  (Online Only)
Helping you find the best you. I tend to focus on LGBTQIA+ Issues, which include but are not limited to social anxiety, fear about coming out or being rejected, and concerns about being alone. I also provide therapeutic services to individuals dealing with addiction (i.e. Crystal Meth, Sex-Drug Fusion). It is important that people of all gender identities, sexual orientations, races, and body size feel respected and heard with me. People of all backgrounds should be able to get the help they need without fear of microaggressions or further oppression by the therapist. I am also an officiant and offer pre-martial counseling.
Helping you find the best you. I tend to focus on LGBTQIA+ Issues, which include but are not limited to social anxiety, fear about coming out or being rejected, and concerns about being alone. I also provide therapeutic services to individuals dealing with addiction (i.e. Crystal Meth, Sex-Drug Fusion). It is important that people of all gender identities, sexual orientations, races, and body size feel respected and heard with me. People of all backgrounds should be able to get the help they need without fear of microaggressions or further oppression by the therapist. I am also an officiant and offer pre-martial counseling.
(202) 915-3834 View (202) 915-3834
Photo of Trevor Dunn, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Trevor Dunn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Dr. Dunn specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ+ concerns, life transitions, relationship/interpersonal concerns, gender affirming treatment evaluations, grief/loss, identity concerns, and multicultural psychology (e.g., gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity). Trained as a counseling psychologist, he provides evidence-based, culturally centered therapy to adults in Washington DC, Virginia, and other PSYPACT states. Using warmth and empathy, he helps clients examine and reflect on their lives, and move in the direction of their goals and values.
Dr. Dunn specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ+ concerns, life transitions, relationship/interpersonal concerns, gender affirming treatment evaluations, grief/loss, identity concerns, and multicultural psychology (e.g., gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity). Trained as a counseling psychologist, he provides evidence-based, culturally centered therapy to adults in Washington DC, Virginia, and other PSYPACT states. Using warmth and empathy, he helps clients examine and reflect on their lives, and move in the direction of their goals and values.
(703) 884-1802 View (703) 884-1802
Photo of Ian Walker Crowe, Counselor in Washington, DC
Ian Walker Crowe
Counselor, MA, NCC, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
While I work with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ clients to process difficult feelings, relationships, and life transitions.
I strive to empower clients in session to make sense of personal circumstances and experiences. Through greater exploration and self-understanding, clients can strengthen their sense of self and break down barriers. I use a client-centered and strengths-based integrative approach to improve self-esteem and autonomy. With a holistic, multicultural lens I help clients grow and seek clarity as they work through times of stress, anxiety, change, or stagnation. I believe self-compassion is one of the most important tenets of growth, and one of the most compassionate things one can do is seek and accept support.
While I work with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ clients to process difficult feelings, relationships, and life transitions.
I strive to empower clients in session to make sense of personal circumstances and experiences. Through greater exploration and self-understanding, clients can strengthen their sense of self and break down barriers. I use a client-centered and strengths-based integrative approach to improve self-esteem and autonomy. With a holistic, multicultural lens I help clients grow and seek clarity as they work through times of stress, anxiety, change, or stagnation. I believe self-compassion is one of the most important tenets of growth, and one of the most compassionate things one can do is seek and accept support.
(202) 519-0309 View (202) 519-0309
Photo of Joseph LaFleur & Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Joseph LaFleur & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CPATP, CDWF, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or those feeling lonely or bored with life. I have been practicing 20 plus years and will develop a treatment regime for you. The work is meaningful, rewarding, insightful, and life-changing. Good mental health is primary since it affects everything, so let's work together on fixing things. Some of my specialties include men's issues, LGBTQ, shame, and trauma. My goal is to ensure you have a safe, comfortable environment to share and explore your thoughts and life experiences. You have the skills. I bring them to your consciousness, through courage or psychedelics
I work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or those feeling lonely or bored with life. I have been practicing 20 plus years and will develop a treatment regime for you. The work is meaningful, rewarding, insightful, and life-changing. Good mental health is primary since it affects everything, so let's work together on fixing things. Some of my specialties include men's issues, LGBTQ, shame, and trauma. My goal is to ensure you have a safe, comfortable environment to share and explore your thoughts and life experiences. You have the skills. I bring them to your consciousness, through courage or psychedelics
(202) 559-4759 View (202) 559-4759
Photo of Morgan Christie, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Morgan Christie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in trauma treatment, body image concerns, and LGBTQIA+ mental health.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
I have specialized training in trauma treatment, body image concerns, and LGBTQIA+ mental health.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
(202) 953-4328 View (202) 953-4328
Photo of Oz Ezkibel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Oz Ezkibel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
As a Latino Queer Therapist, I have learned that understanding the intersections of my identities and how I show up in multiple spaces has been imperative to my personal growth and my understanding of belonging.  Growing up, I always felt othered and often times unwanted. Therapy for me is about learning to understand our inner dialogues, validate our emotional experiences, and effect change in a way that is consistent with our desired narrative.  
As a Latino Queer Therapist, I have learned that understanding the intersections of my identities and how I show up in multiple spaces has been imperative to my personal growth and my understanding of belonging.  Growing up, I always felt othered and often times unwanted. Therapy for me is about learning to understand our inner dialogues, validate our emotional experiences, and effect change in a way that is consistent with our desired narrative.  
(202) 968-1053 View (202) 968-1053
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.