LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 75093
Ba Bunansa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, BC TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I’m also experienced in and passionate about supporting the LGBTQIA+ and Asian American communities.
Knowing ourselves can be tough. Accepting and loving ourselves? Even tougher. So if you’re struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, understanding your identity, or navigating relationships with loved ones who may or may not accept you for who you are – well, you definitely aren’t alone! As a teen and even into adulthood, there can be a lot of stumbling blocks on the path toward celebrating who you really are. It can be a challenging journey… But the good news? It’s not a journey you need to take by yourself. You can find support and guidance along the way. And it can all feel a lot easier than it might right now.
I’m also experienced in and passionate about supporting the LGBTQIA+ and Asian American communities.
Knowing ourselves can be tough. Accepting and loving ourselves? Even tougher. So if you’re struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, understanding your identity, or navigating relationships with loved ones who may or may not accept you for who you are – well, you definitely aren’t alone! As a teen and even into adulthood, there can be a lot of stumbling blocks on the path toward celebrating who you really are. It can be a challenging journey… But the good news? It’s not a journey you need to take by yourself. You can find support and guidance along the way. And it can all feel a lot easier than it might right now.
Christopher B Meador
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
For 30 years, I have specialized in working with Self Esteem & Self Worth, Mens Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Grief/Loss, Relationship Issues, LGBTQ Issues, Memory Loss and Dementia and Senior Adult Specific Issues.
Psychotherapy consists of learning new ways of thinking, feeling & communicating in order to bring about life changing experiences. I assist you in navigating life's challenges in a place of acceptance, warmth, creativity and peacefulness. Motivational, Cognitive Behavioral & Solution Focused Therapy are just a few of the treatment approaches I incorporate into your individualized treatment. I accept you where you are & help you to gain insight. I offer suggestions & together we work to find the best "fit" for you.
For 30 years, I have specialized in working with Self Esteem & Self Worth, Mens Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, Grief/Loss, Relationship Issues, LGBTQ Issues, Memory Loss and Dementia and Senior Adult Specific Issues.
Psychotherapy consists of learning new ways of thinking, feeling & communicating in order to bring about life changing experiences. I assist you in navigating life's challenges in a place of acceptance, warmth, creativity and peacefulness. Motivational, Cognitive Behavioral & Solution Focused Therapy are just a few of the treatment approaches I incorporate into your individualized treatment. I accept you where you are & help you to gain insight. I offer suggestions & together we work to find the best "fit" for you.
Bria Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
She also enjoys working with people of color and those aligned with the LGBTQ+ community.
Bria Harris is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. Bria takes the approach that people are the greatest experts in their own life and that therapy is the opportunity to collaborate in getting clients the help that they need. Part of the journey includes looking at all facets of a person's life such as relationships, physical health, and self-care. Bria encourages exploration of self, development of a support system, and understanding the past in order to confront current problems and struggles to build a healthier life.
She also enjoys working with people of color and those aligned with the LGBTQ+ community.
Bria Harris is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. Bria takes the approach that people are the greatest experts in their own life and that therapy is the opportunity to collaborate in getting clients the help that they need. Part of the journey includes looking at all facets of a person's life such as relationships, physical health, and self-care. Bria encourages exploration of self, development of a support system, and understanding the past in order to confront current problems and struggles to build a healthier life.
Ashlyne Kukreja
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I am passionate about working with women's health, teens, substance use, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hi there! I know finding the right counselor can be stressful and my goal is to meet you wherever you are on your mental health journey. In my practice, I prioritize the therapeutic relationship as a catalyst for change. I also love that having fun and exploring new things together in the therapy space is totally encouraged! I understand that every individual is unique, and their experiences, challenges, and aspirations are equally distinct so we will work together to make sure you are getting what you need from your time in counseling. I want to empower you to be your most authentic self during our work together.
I am passionate about working with women's health, teens, substance use, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hi there! I know finding the right counselor can be stressful and my goal is to meet you wherever you are on your mental health journey. In my practice, I prioritize the therapeutic relationship as a catalyst for change. I also love that having fun and exploring new things together in the therapy space is totally encouraged! I understand that every individual is unique, and their experiences, challenges, and aspirations are equally distinct so we will work together to make sure you are getting what you need from your time in counseling. I want to empower you to be your most authentic self during our work together.
Barbara Ritchie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I have experience counseling LGBT clients.
I have worked in a variety of settings over my 25 years of practice. These experiences have prepared me to treat a wide variety of issues. My first work experience was in an adolescent treatment center and with children in foster care. I have worked as a psychotherapist treating individuals and families.I have worked closely with the Psychiatry staff and school staff treating children and adolescents with a team approach. I also worked as a school counselor where I became aware of the stresses and issues for both children and educators in the school system.
I have experience counseling LGBT clients.
I have worked in a variety of settings over my 25 years of practice. These experiences have prepared me to treat a wide variety of issues. My first work experience was in an adolescent treatment center and with children in foster care. I have worked as a psychotherapist treating individuals and families.I have worked closely with the Psychiatry staff and school staff treating children and adolescents with a team approach. I also worked as a school counselor where I became aware of the stresses and issues for both children and educators in the school system.
Elizabeth Ledford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
My experience has prepared me to work with body image issues, crises, self-harm, suicide ideation, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, interpersonal issues, grief, coping skills, religious trauma, disordered eating, and LGBTQIA+ matters. I specifically have a heart for clients who are navigating and processing their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. I also love supporting individuals who are working through religious trauma or concerns. I have deep understanding and empathy for how difficult it can be to navigate personal growth through the lens of changing or leaving behind belief systems, cultures, and communities.
My experience has prepared me to work with body image issues, crises, self-harm, suicide ideation, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, interpersonal issues, grief, coping skills, religious trauma, disordered eating, and LGBTQIA+ matters. I specifically have a heart for clients who are navigating and processing their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. I also love supporting individuals who are working through religious trauma or concerns. I have deep understanding and empathy for how difficult it can be to navigate personal growth through the lens of changing or leaving behind belief systems, cultures, and communities.
Taryn Colgrove
LPC Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Waitlist for new clients
My passion is to help you uproot your trauma rather than just treat symptoms (which can often feel unhelpful and frustrating long-term). I frequently work with complex trauma/complex PTSD, insecure attachment patterns, LGBTQIA+ identities, ADHD, and Autism. Clients often come to me feeling "stuck", deeply misunderstood, repeating painful patterns, having had negative therapy experiences in the past, feeling like "nothing works", and have a history of intellectualizing their feelings. It is my goal to help you work through your trauma, navigate your identity, and feel more present and safe in your every day life.
My passion is to help you uproot your trauma rather than just treat symptoms (which can often feel unhelpful and frustrating long-term). I frequently work with complex trauma/complex PTSD, insecure attachment patterns, LGBTQIA+ identities, ADHD, and Autism. Clients often come to me feeling "stuck", deeply misunderstood, repeating painful patterns, having had negative therapy experiences in the past, feeling like "nothing works", and have a history of intellectualizing their feelings. It is my goal to help you work through your trauma, navigate your identity, and feel more present and safe in your every day life.
Stacee Reicherzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093 (Online Only)
Hi there, my name’s Stacee and I’m a transgender therapist who specializes in work with adult LGBTQ+ clients. There are so many parts to our shared experience: Trauma that’s related to our families-of-origin. For many of us, our families were our first bullies. Grief from our losses of intimate partners, lovers, friends, family, and pets. Anxiety and perfectionism that comes with trying to prove our worth in the world. Spiritual trauma from histories with shame-based religious systems. History with abusive or exploitative relationships, whether bullying bosses, predatory ex-partners or family members.
Hi there, my name’s Stacee and I’m a transgender therapist who specializes in work with adult LGBTQ+ clients. There are so many parts to our shared experience: Trauma that’s related to our families-of-origin. For many of us, our families were our first bullies. Grief from our losses of intimate partners, lovers, friends, family, and pets. Anxiety and perfectionism that comes with trying to prove our worth in the world. Spiritual trauma from histories with shame-based religious systems. History with abusive or exploitative relationships, whether bullying bosses, predatory ex-partners or family members.
Amie McNamara
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Beyond mood disorders, I specialize in sex therapy with a particular focus on queer identities, kink dynamics, and everything consent.
Therapy is an intensely personal process which can be both exquisitely liberating and excruciatingly difficult. To honor this, I focus on developing a strong relationship with you characterized by compassion and a suspension of judgments. No topic is off-limits in my office; nothing is "unspeakable" or "unthinkable." What I ask of my clients is to be honest and searching. I will never coerce you into divulging something before you are ready, but I may encourage you to examine the deeper meanings behind interactions that have been troubling you. Together we will uncover truths and sort through whatever may rise up.
Beyond mood disorders, I specialize in sex therapy with a particular focus on queer identities, kink dynamics, and everything consent.
Therapy is an intensely personal process which can be both exquisitely liberating and excruciatingly difficult. To honor this, I focus on developing a strong relationship with you characterized by compassion and a suspension of judgments. No topic is off-limits in my office; nothing is "unspeakable" or "unthinkable." What I ask of my clients is to be honest and searching. I will never coerce you into divulging something before you are ready, but I may encourage you to examine the deeper meanings behind interactions that have been troubling you. Together we will uncover truths and sort through whatever may rise up.
Amy Doar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include EMDR, High IQ/Giftedness, LGBTQIA, Neurodiverse, Career Transitions, University success, Anxiety & Depression, Relationships, Grief & Loss, and Supervision.
I'm so glad you stopped by! I am a solution focused, person-centered, EMDR trained counselor who offers a wide variety of approaches. Counseling should never be a "one size fits all" solution. Working with me is a journey into mindfulness, self-awareness, and personal growth. My office is a safe space, and I would be delighted to see you there. I provide Telehealth to the entire state of Texas, and in-person counseling to Collin and Dallas counties. I also provide Supervision to LPC-Associates. I have an easily accessible and comfortable private office situated on 190 between Hwy 75 and the Dallas North Tollway.
My specialties include EMDR, High IQ/Giftedness, LGBTQIA, Neurodiverse, Career Transitions, University success, Anxiety & Depression, Relationships, Grief & Loss, and Supervision.
I'm so glad you stopped by! I am a solution focused, person-centered, EMDR trained counselor who offers a wide variety of approaches. Counseling should never be a "one size fits all" solution. Working with me is a journey into mindfulness, self-awareness, and personal growth. My office is a safe space, and I would be delighted to see you there. I provide Telehealth to the entire state of Texas, and in-person counseling to Collin and Dallas counties. I also provide Supervision to LPC-Associates. I have an easily accessible and comfortable private office situated on 190 between Hwy 75 and the Dallas North Tollway.
Owens Outpatient Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I am an LGBTQIA-affirming therapist and truly believe this world would be a better place if everyone had a therapist.
Do you ever say to yourself, "I know I could be doing better. I can't handle the stress in my life. I don't feel like I have anyone to talk to?" People often describe me as "A warm, tell- it -like- it -is therapist who doesn't just sit there and nod her head." We ALL go through tough times where we may look back and say, "It would've been helpful if I had seen a therapist.''
I am an LGBTQIA-affirming therapist and truly believe this world would be a better place if everyone had a therapist.
Do you ever say to yourself, "I know I could be doing better. I can't handle the stress in my life. I don't feel like I have anyone to talk to?" People often describe me as "A warm, tell- it -like- it -is therapist who doesn't just sit there and nod her head." We ALL go through tough times where we may look back and say, "It would've been helpful if I had seen a therapist.''
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Elizabeth Ledford
Sabrina S Austin
Rachel Moore
Counseling and Nature Therapy, PLLC
Doreen Simonian
Lauren Thomas Hale
Michelle Di Paolo
Megan Pardy
Riley Nyberg
Blanca Kleinfall Counseling
Donna P. Xu
Alexis Kubiak
Jennifer Kendall
Michael Ferraro
Adrienne Parker
Natalie Kingsley
Tom Earnshaw
Rachel E. Nanney
Janice Rose-Gill (at Canvas Counseling & Wellness)
Daniel Steinberg
Sabrina S Austin
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Members of all faiths and of the LGBTQIA+ community will find my practice to be a safe space for exploration and celebration.
Are your health issues overwhelming your life? Living with chronic medical issues like pain can be isolating, frightening, and dejecting. As a health psychologist, I offer hope, knowledge, and support to individuals struggling with complex challenges. Every day, scientific advancements illuminate the integral relationship between mind and body. Effective treatment of one requires caring for both. In working with me, you can expect kindness, humor, acceptance, and a lot of mixed metaphors. I hope that, through our work together, you can find sources of light on your darkest days.
Members of all faiths and of the LGBTQIA+ community will find my practice to be a safe space for exploration and celebration.
Are your health issues overwhelming your life? Living with chronic medical issues like pain can be isolating, frightening, and dejecting. As a health psychologist, I offer hope, knowledge, and support to individuals struggling with complex challenges. Every day, scientific advancements illuminate the integral relationship between mind and body. Effective treatment of one requires caring for both. In working with me, you can expect kindness, humor, acceptance, and a lot of mixed metaphors. I hope that, through our work together, you can find sources of light on your darkest days.
Melani Massey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093 (Online Only)
Additionally, I am a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist.
If you're looking for a caring, compassionate, personalized therapeutic approach, you've come to the right place. I will give you the attention and support that you need while processing whatever change you are going through. I enjoy helping teen girls and women develop healthy self-esteem and begin to see the value that they add to the world. Helping individuals uncover their authentic selves is my passion! I would love to meet you and help you discover your best you!
Additionally, I am a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist.
If you're looking for a caring, compassionate, personalized therapeutic approach, you've come to the right place. I will give you the attention and support that you need while processing whatever change you are going through. I enjoy helping teen girls and women develop healthy self-esteem and begin to see the value that they add to the world. Helping individuals uncover their authentic selves is my passion! I would love to meet you and help you discover your best you!
Dr. Rachel Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I promote growth by providing a safe, culturally inclusive, and LGBTQ affirming space for you to feel heard and empowered to create lasting change.
I believe healthy relationships are key to living a happier and more fulfilling life. There’s no denying that relationships are hard, especially when life throws unexpected obstacles our way. Relationships are complex, whether it be the relationship you have with yourself, or the ones with your parents, siblings, partner, family members, friends, or co-workers. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or stuck. Perhaps you are feeling disconnected, frustrated, or unappreciated in your relationships. Or you might be on a journey of personal growth or seeking to strengthen your relationships, but are not sure where to start.
I promote growth by providing a safe, culturally inclusive, and LGBTQ affirming space for you to feel heard and empowered to create lasting change.
I believe healthy relationships are key to living a happier and more fulfilling life. There’s no denying that relationships are hard, especially when life throws unexpected obstacles our way. Relationships are complex, whether it be the relationship you have with yourself, or the ones with your parents, siblings, partner, family members, friends, or co-workers. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or stuck. Perhaps you are feeling disconnected, frustrated, or unappreciated in your relationships. Or you might be on a journey of personal growth or seeking to strengthen your relationships, but are not sure where to start.
Counseling and Nature Therapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, CSC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults, trauma, women's issues, and LGBTQ+ specific concerns.
I believe that all people have the ability to overcome their greatest fears to experience a deeply inspired version of their lives. Counseling will help you clarify goals, work toward overcoming insecurities, and give you a place to express yourself. In a non-judgmental relationship with a trained professional, true growth can occur. Whether you need help with relationships, processing trauma, mood disorders, life direction, or other problems of living, you can count on me to provide insightful, and caring counseling services.
I specialize in working with adults, trauma, women's issues, and LGBTQ+ specific concerns.
I believe that all people have the ability to overcome their greatest fears to experience a deeply inspired version of their lives. Counseling will help you clarify goals, work toward overcoming insecurities, and give you a place to express yourself. In a non-judgmental relationship with a trained professional, true growth can occur. Whether you need help with relationships, processing trauma, mood disorders, life direction, or other problems of living, you can count on me to provide insightful, and caring counseling services.
Christy Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093 (Online Only)
I also have extensive experience working with struggles related to depression, burnout, chronic illness, cancer, LGBTQ, and spiritual concerns.
Your life is important and the journey gets complicated. I will walk with you on the path to wholeness and healing to help you live life to the fullest. I take a holistic and relational approach in my work, addressing not only mental and emotional needs but also physical and spiritual ones. I believe that at our core, each of us has the ability to find our way, grow, and transform so that you may live with more peace, joy, and love.
I also have extensive experience working with struggles related to depression, burnout, chronic illness, cancer, LGBTQ, and spiritual concerns.
Your life is important and the journey gets complicated. I will walk with you on the path to wholeness and healing to help you live life to the fullest. I take a holistic and relational approach in my work, addressing not only mental and emotional needs but also physical and spiritual ones. I believe that at our core, each of us has the ability to find our way, grow, and transform so that you may live with more peace, joy, and love.
Doreen Simonian
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Other areas of interest/experience include depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, life transitions, elder care support, parenting issues, wellness/self-care, mindfulness and LGBTQIA support.
Life can often be hard and unexpected challenges can happen to anyone. I believe that having the support of someone in our corner can help us discover our unique qualities so we can emerge from difficulties stronger than we ever thought possible. I will provide a compassionate and supportive environment while we embark on your journey of growth and healing. Taking this first step is often very difficult and I invite you to contact me and see if counseling is right for you and if I would be a good fit for your needs.
Other areas of interest/experience include depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, life transitions, elder care support, parenting issues, wellness/self-care, mindfulness and LGBTQIA support.
Life can often be hard and unexpected challenges can happen to anyone. I believe that having the support of someone in our corner can help us discover our unique qualities so we can emerge from difficulties stronger than we ever thought possible. I will provide a compassionate and supportive environment while we embark on your journey of growth and healing. Taking this first step is often very difficult and I invite you to contact me and see if counseling is right for you and if I would be a good fit for your needs.
Denise Lucero-Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093 (Online Only)
My specialities include anxiety, trauma recovery, women's issues, young adults, leaderhsip development & LGBTQ+ issues.
Along the journey of life, we will encounter joy, connection, laughter, and a true zest for living. At times, however, we may also experience pain, heartbreak, and an inability to find our light. As a result, our lives may feel disjointed and difficult to navigate. It is during these times that the support of a knowledgeable and caring professional can assist you in reconnecting with your purpose, inner strength, and potential for embracing a rewarding life. The decision to seek help can feel overwhelming yet also be an opportunity to discover how to break negative patterns and find new solutions.
My specialities include anxiety, trauma recovery, women's issues, young adults, leaderhsip development & LGBTQ+ issues.
Along the journey of life, we will encounter joy, connection, laughter, and a true zest for living. At times, however, we may also experience pain, heartbreak, and an inability to find our light. As a result, our lives may feel disjointed and difficult to navigate. It is during these times that the support of a knowledgeable and caring professional can assist you in reconnecting with your purpose, inner strength, and potential for embracing a rewarding life. The decision to seek help can feel overwhelming yet also be an opportunity to discover how to break negative patterns and find new solutions.
Jordan N. Suarez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I have experience working with clients across the lifespan including, but not limited to, individuals, couples, families, eating disorders/disordered eating, body image, trauma, OCD, LGBTQ+ matters, anxiety, and depression.
Sometimes we reach a season of life that we need a little help navigating, and the good news is that you do not have to do it alone. I truly believe in a collaborative counseling relationship that fosters encouragement and growth. I help clients get to the root of what is preventing them from living the life they desire and create a plan to overcome those hardships together. I offer an accepting, warm, judgement free environment that will allow us to explore your past, present and/or future to find the process that fits best for you. You are the expert on your own life and I am here to guide you through your journey.
I have experience working with clients across the lifespan including, but not limited to, individuals, couples, families, eating disorders/disordered eating, body image, trauma, OCD, LGBTQ+ matters, anxiety, and depression.
Sometimes we reach a season of life that we need a little help navigating, and the good news is that you do not have to do it alone. I truly believe in a collaborative counseling relationship that fosters encouragement and growth. I help clients get to the root of what is preventing them from living the life they desire and create a plan to overcome those hardships together. I offer an accepting, warm, judgement free environment that will allow us to explore your past, present and/or future to find the process that fits best for you. You are the expert on your own life and I am here to guide you through your journey.
Fran DeArman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, IC-ADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I also like to bring humor into therapy whenever possible! I support the Health at Every Size (HAES) and intuitive eating philosophies in my disordered eating work, and am LGBTQ+ affirming.
I know it might not feel like it at times, but being miserable is optional! Life is too short to spend it being stuck in that place... There IS hope, and making an appointment is a great step towards your new future. In addition to working with depression and anxiety, I specialize in helping clients with addictions, eating disorders, and self-harm issues break free from these destructive, but powerful patterns. If you can relate to being stuck in some (or all) of those, I can help! My years of clinical experience have allowed me to work with people of all ages, races, genders, body sizes, and sexual orientations.
I also like to bring humor into therapy whenever possible! I support the Health at Every Size (HAES) and intuitive eating philosophies in my disordered eating work, and am LGBTQ+ affirming.
I know it might not feel like it at times, but being miserable is optional! Life is too short to spend it being stuck in that place... There IS hope, and making an appointment is a great step towards your new future. In addition to working with depression and anxiety, I specialize in helping clients with addictions, eating disorders, and self-harm issues break free from these destructive, but powerful patterns. If you can relate to being stuck in some (or all) of those, I can help! My years of clinical experience have allowed me to work with people of all ages, races, genders, body sizes, and sexual orientations.
See more therapy options for 75093
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.