LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in University City, MO

Photo of Raymond L Scott - Raymond L. Scott, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Raymond L. Scott, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
One important mission for me is to provide lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer communities an affirming therapeutic environment where one's sexual orientation and gender identity are understood and supported, free from the judgment that homosexual, bisexual or transgender experiences are pathological.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I administer, interpret, and prepare culturally sensitive reports based on psychological test data. Cultural considerations play a crucial role in understanding an individual’s beliefs, learning styles, educational attainment, and values and which provide a foundation for her or his pursue of happiness, attainment of career success, and development of a sense of purpose and situatedness. I conduct aptitude and achievement evaluations, assessments to evaluate an individual’s intellectual and emotional intelligence, assessments to evaluate an individual’s personality and social functioning.
One important mission for me is to provide lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer communities an affirming therapeutic environment where one's sexual orientation and gender identity are understood and supported, free from the judgment that homosexual, bisexual or transgender experiences are pathological.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I administer, interpret, and prepare culturally sensitive reports based on psychological test data. Cultural considerations play a crucial role in understanding an individual’s beliefs, learning styles, educational attainment, and values and which provide a foundation for her or his pursue of happiness, attainment of career success, and development of a sense of purpose and situatedness. I conduct aptitude and achievement evaluations, assessments to evaluate an individual’s intellectual and emotional intelligence, assessments to evaluate an individual’s personality and social functioning.
(314) 260-9040 View (314) 260-9040
Photo of Meagan Vorce, MEd, P-LPC
Meagan Vorce
MEd, P-LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130  (Online Only)
Are you looking to make a change but keep getting stuck in old, unsatisfying patterns? Is there a life transition (for example, opening up a relationship or a later-in-life coming out) you're having trouble with? I'm a queer therapist passionate about working with people who want support in navigating life's complexities. Together, in a non-judgmental space, we will find approaches that work to repair attachment wounds, address past traumas, and get curious about limiting beliefs so you can live a more expansive and authentic life.
Are you looking to make a change but keep getting stuck in old, unsatisfying patterns? Is there a life transition (for example, opening up a relationship or a later-in-life coming out) you're having trouble with? I'm a queer therapist passionate about working with people who want support in navigating life's complexities. Together, in a non-judgmental space, we will find approaches that work to repair attachment wounds, address past traumas, and get curious about limiting beliefs so you can live a more expansive and authentic life.
(314) 907-0258 View (314) 907-0258
Photo of Celine Noelle Reinoso, MSW, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Celine Noelle Reinoso
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a queer woman of color, I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
You might be feeling gravity pulling you down, or fighting hard to keep afloat. Your friends and family might not understand, and you feel like all you have is yourself in your corner. You have been working hard to keep yourself safe–but what if you didn’t have to work so hard anymore? Let me be someone to offer a moment of relief, companionship, and compassion.
As a queer woman of color, I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
You might be feeling gravity pulling you down, or fighting hard to keep afloat. Your friends and family might not understand, and you feel like all you have is yourself in your corner. You have been working hard to keep yourself safe–but what if you didn’t have to work so hard anymore? Let me be someone to offer a moment of relief, companionship, and compassion.
(314) 350-7525 View (314) 350-7525
Photo of Alyssa Aleesa Nagel-Wild, EdS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Aleesa Nagel-Wild
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130  (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained through the EMDR Institute, Emotionally-Focused Therapy trained, observe guidelines of Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling, am ENM/polyam and Queer welcoming, and have completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training.
Currently accepting limited individual clients for telehealth in Missouri and Oregon. I specialize in the areas of relationship and attachment issues, later-in-life autism diagnoses (or suspected autism), difficult life experiences, depression, and anxiety, ENM/polyamory, and exploring existence/spirituality. I am Queer welcoming, sex positive, and ENM relationship experienced. I work with ages 18+. I believe firmly in the power of radical acceptance. Whatever the experience may be...noticing, accepting, expressing, and finding true choice helps us get underneath the symptoms to facilitate true growth and empowerment.
I am EMDR trained through the EMDR Institute, Emotionally-Focused Therapy trained, observe guidelines of Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling, am ENM/polyam and Queer welcoming, and have completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training.
Currently accepting limited individual clients for telehealth in Missouri and Oregon. I specialize in the areas of relationship and attachment issues, later-in-life autism diagnoses (or suspected autism), difficult life experiences, depression, and anxiety, ENM/polyamory, and exploring existence/spirituality. I am Queer welcoming, sex positive, and ENM relationship experienced. I work with ages 18+. I believe firmly in the power of radical acceptance. Whatever the experience may be...noticing, accepting, expressing, and finding true choice helps us get underneath the symptoms to facilitate true growth and empowerment.
(971) 298-8069 View (971) 298-8069
Photo of Tiffany J Walehwa, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany J Walehwa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
I am trauma-informed therapist that has experience working with a diverse population that includes children, adolescents and adults. Dedicated to creating an inclusive environment, I continue my training throughout the year to effectively serve marginalized communities, including those related to the LGBTQIA community. Born and raised in St. Louis City, I am aware of some of the treasures and challenges that come from living in the area. However, I remain committed to serving the systemic issues that face the clientele in other states, including California and Texas. I strive to provide a safe, client-focused environment.
I am trauma-informed therapist that has experience working with a diverse population that includes children, adolescents and adults. Dedicated to creating an inclusive environment, I continue my training throughout the year to effectively serve marginalized communities, including those related to the LGBTQIA community. Born and raised in St. Louis City, I am aware of some of the treasures and challenges that come from living in the area. However, I remain committed to serving the systemic issues that face the clientele in other states, including California and Texas. I strive to provide a safe, client-focused environment.
(314) 701-7058 View (314) 701-7058
Photo of Melissa T Scolaro, MSW, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa T Scolaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of special interest or experience include: anxiety, depression, gay and lesbian issues, women's issues including fertility and parenting, men's issues, veterans (trauma, PTSD), grief/loss, life transition, sexuality, attachment, adoption, marriage/couples, premarital work.
When the challenges of life and relationship present you with complex dilemmas and create painful or uncomfortable symptoms, therapy offers an opportunity for healing and long-lasting psychological change. The power of therapy is in the way it expands your choice in behaviors or ways of seeing others, yourself and your life circumstances. Through a compassionate journey of self-exploration I will help you work toward a fuller understanding of yourself which will lead to greater choice in how you live, love, work and play. It is a privilege to join you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.
Areas of special interest or experience include: anxiety, depression, gay and lesbian issues, women's issues including fertility and parenting, men's issues, veterans (trauma, PTSD), grief/loss, life transition, sexuality, attachment, adoption, marriage/couples, premarital work.
When the challenges of life and relationship present you with complex dilemmas and create painful or uncomfortable symptoms, therapy offers an opportunity for healing and long-lasting psychological change. The power of therapy is in the way it expands your choice in behaviors or ways of seeing others, yourself and your life circumstances. Through a compassionate journey of self-exploration I will help you work toward a fuller understanding of yourself which will lead to greater choice in how you live, love, work and play. It is a privilege to join you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.
(314) 828-1020 View (314) 828-1020
Photo of Cherese M Alcorn, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cherese M Alcorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
Her therapy, tailored for people of color and the LGBTQIA+ community, offers a distinct path of healing, insight, and growth.
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs, but you’re able to take care of everyone else’s? Are you exhausted but unable to rest peacefully? Do you doubt yourself and minimize your accomplishments? Mental health care is different for people of color and LGBTQIA+ individuals. You may face unique hardships, including discrimination, affecting your mental health. Traditional therapy can feel inadequate, but, as a black female therapist, Cherese M. Alcorn, MSW, LCSW, offers a profound understanding and empathetic approach. She aids high-achievers in balancing their mind, body, and spirit so they can lead effectively.
Her therapy, tailored for people of color and the LGBTQIA+ community, offers a distinct path of healing, insight, and growth.
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs, but you’re able to take care of everyone else’s? Are you exhausted but unable to rest peacefully? Do you doubt yourself and minimize your accomplishments? Mental health care is different for people of color and LGBTQIA+ individuals. You may face unique hardships, including discrimination, affecting your mental health. Traditional therapy can feel inadequate, but, as a black female therapist, Cherese M. Alcorn, MSW, LCSW, offers a profound understanding and empathetic approach. She aids high-achievers in balancing their mind, body, and spirit so they can lead effectively.
(314) 310-6458 View (314) 310-6458
Photo of Hanz Dismer - Psychosocial Services, LCSW, MSW, MPH, CSE, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Psychosocial Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MPH, CSE
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
Our practice is explicitly queer and trans-affirming, sex-positive, pro-abortion, and feminist.
We work with individuals on a variety of different issues directly impacting their lives: pregnancy, abortion, sexuality, gender identity, relationships, and the intersection of these experiences with religion/spirituality. The things we most need to talk about are often the things that make us uncomfortable, challenge our worldview, or are deemed “socially unacceptable”. Exploring these issues and our feelings in a safe environment expands our horizons and helps us to better understand ourselves and the world around us. Learning allows us to grow and develop as human beings. Personal growth can help us heal.
Our practice is explicitly queer and trans-affirming, sex-positive, pro-abortion, and feminist.
We work with individuals on a variety of different issues directly impacting their lives: pregnancy, abortion, sexuality, gender identity, relationships, and the intersection of these experiences with religion/spirituality. The things we most need to talk about are often the things that make us uncomfortable, challenge our worldview, or are deemed “socially unacceptable”. Exploring these issues and our feelings in a safe environment expands our horizons and helps us to better understand ourselves and the world around us. Learning allows us to grow and develop as human beings. Personal growth can help us heal.
(618) 278-5010 View (618) 278-5010
Photo of Emily Lombardo, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Lombardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is LGBTQ+ affirming, Health At Every Size informed & challenges systems of oppression.
Young adulthood is an exciting journey of SELF discovery- so why is it so easy to obsess about the approval of OTHERS? Whether it’s food & body image, academics, or relationships, the pressure to compete & compare is not only overwhelming, it implies personal failure when we fall short of unrealistic standards. Imagine the possibilities if we all felt empowered to embrace uncertainty & authenticity- rejoicing in the knowledge that we don’t owe anyone perfection at the expense of being ourselves.
My approach is LGBTQ+ affirming, Health At Every Size informed & challenges systems of oppression.
Young adulthood is an exciting journey of SELF discovery- so why is it so easy to obsess about the approval of OTHERS? Whether it’s food & body image, academics, or relationships, the pressure to compete & compare is not only overwhelming, it implies personal failure when we fall short of unrealistic standards. Imagine the possibilities if we all felt empowered to embrace uncertainty & authenticity- rejoicing in the knowledge that we don’t owe anyone perfection at the expense of being ourselves.
(314) 671-0603 View (314) 671-0603
Photo of Carolyn Versical - Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
At Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy, we specialize in brief and long-term therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. We believe everyone possess within themselves the potential for transformation, growth, and healing, and have experience helping clients address a variety of concerns: anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, identity development, LGBTQ+ issues, healthy relationships, career concerns, women's issues, eating and body image concerns, substance use, trauma, and living with chronic illness.
At Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy, we specialize in brief and long-term therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. We believe everyone possess within themselves the potential for transformation, growth, and healing, and have experience helping clients address a variety of concerns: anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, identity development, LGBTQ+ issues, healthy relationships, career concerns, women's issues, eating and body image concerns, substance use, trauma, and living with chronic illness.
(314) 310-8020 View (314) 310-8020
Photo of Brandon Noel, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandon Noel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
I am a US Marine Corps combat veteran, and I enjoy working with young and older adults in areas related to anxiety, depression, relationships, identity (including LGBTQ+), self-esteem, family dynamics, and trauma/PTSD (including veterans).
Each day brings new challenges. Some involve our families or our jobs or our relationships, but all involve our minds. Healing begins with the recognition that these battles are not obstacles, but doorways, to a better life — opportunities to develop ourselves in ways we couldn’t previously imagine. You possess the capacity for greatness. You have a purpose! Awareness and the vulnerability to trust another human are keys to unlocking your potential in these ways. Therapy provides an outlet to experience yourself as such, and to work toward the harmony and inner peace you’ve longed for.
I am a US Marine Corps combat veteran, and I enjoy working with young and older adults in areas related to anxiety, depression, relationships, identity (including LGBTQ+), self-esteem, family dynamics, and trauma/PTSD (including veterans).
Each day brings new challenges. Some involve our families or our jobs or our relationships, but all involve our minds. Healing begins with the recognition that these battles are not obstacles, but doorways, to a better life — opportunities to develop ourselves in ways we couldn’t previously imagine. You possess the capacity for greatness. You have a purpose! Awareness and the vulnerability to trust another human are keys to unlocking your potential in these ways. Therapy provides an outlet to experience yourself as such, and to work toward the harmony and inner peace you’ve longed for.
(314) 582-3574 View (314) 582-3574
Photo of Anessa Kemna, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Anessa Kemna
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130  (Online Only)
When you’re neurodivergent, queer, or disabled, it can feel like you’re constantly trying to meet unreachable standards. Shame, doubt, and overwhelm often show up, making you feel like you’re falling short no matter how hard you try. But you’re not failing. The problem is the world’s one-size-fits-none expectations. Together, we’ll create new expectations and redefine what success means for you. We’ll embrace every part of you, especially the parts you’ve been told don’t belong.
When you’re neurodivergent, queer, or disabled, it can feel like you’re constantly trying to meet unreachable standards. Shame, doubt, and overwhelm often show up, making you feel like you’re falling short no matter how hard you try. But you’re not failing. The problem is the world’s one-size-fits-none expectations. Together, we’ll create new expectations and redefine what success means for you. We’ll embrace every part of you, especially the parts you’ve been told don’t belong.
(314) 370-2233 View (314) 370-2233
Photo of Darla Belflower, LCSW, LSCSW, LAC, CRAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darla Belflower
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, LAC, CRAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people who have substance use disorders, part of the LGBTQ+ community, mood disorders and trauma.
Licensed in both Missouri and Kansas, I have over 30 years of experience working with people who have substance use disorder, trauma, and most behavioral health disorders. We all strive for wellness, but sometimes, events, circumstances, or behaviors get in the way of achieving that for ourselves. By actively listening and understanding your challenges, we will collaborate to set goals you want to work on. We will also create a path for you to reach those goals. Reach out to see if I am a good fit to guide you on your journey to wellness.
I specialize in working with people who have substance use disorders, part of the LGBTQ+ community, mood disorders and trauma.
Licensed in both Missouri and Kansas, I have over 30 years of experience working with people who have substance use disorder, trauma, and most behavioral health disorders. We all strive for wellness, but sometimes, events, circumstances, or behaviors get in the way of achieving that for ourselves. By actively listening and understanding your challenges, we will collaborate to set goals you want to work on. We will also create a path for you to reach those goals. Reach out to see if I am a good fit to guide you on your journey to wellness.
(816) 675-5250 View (816) 675-5250
Photo of Travis Wood Munnerlyn, PsyD, Psychologist
Travis Wood Munnerlyn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
I’m a licensed psychologist providing online therapy across 39 states. As an integrative psychotherapist, I bring curiosity, warmth, compassion, and humor to our sessions. I consider societal and cultural influences while helping clients navigate relationship issues, sexuality, identity, and challenges like depression, anxiety, and trauma. My sex-positive approach is inclusive of poly, non-monogamous, open, kink, and BDSM clients. I believe that understanding the science behind mental health struggles empowers clients to thrive. Let's work together to explore your unique journey.
I’m a licensed psychologist providing online therapy across 39 states. As an integrative psychotherapist, I bring curiosity, warmth, compassion, and humor to our sessions. I consider societal and cultural influences while helping clients navigate relationship issues, sexuality, identity, and challenges like depression, anxiety, and trauma. My sex-positive approach is inclusive of poly, non-monogamous, open, kink, and BDSM clients. I believe that understanding the science behind mental health struggles empowers clients to thrive. Let's work together to explore your unique journey.
(314) 947-5011 View (314) 947-5011
Photo of Kat Seal, LMSW
Kat Seal
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
Feeling fractured from your once-strong sense of self can be confusing, isolating, and painful. Oftentimes these feelings can arise from societal pressures to conform, living in a sex-negative society, or relationship and systemic trauma. Sex & relationship therapy can be a good fit for improving the relational quality of your life and accessing desire as a tool for living well. I specialize in supporting individuals and relationships (of all styles) who struggle to access authenticity and wholeness in their daily lives. I work best with engaged clients who practice active self reflection.
Feeling fractured from your once-strong sense of self can be confusing, isolating, and painful. Oftentimes these feelings can arise from societal pressures to conform, living in a sex-negative society, or relationship and systemic trauma. Sex & relationship therapy can be a good fit for improving the relational quality of your life and accessing desire as a tool for living well. I specialize in supporting individuals and relationships (of all styles) who struggle to access authenticity and wholeness in their daily lives. I work best with engaged clients who practice active self reflection.
(314) 897-4049 View (314) 897-4049
Photo of Prof. Carol Robinson - Windhorse LLC, MEd, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Windhorse LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
Interested in understanding how past challenges impact life today? Curious about what is getting in the way of your ability to genuinely enjoy a life worth celebrating? We can work together to understand what is happening for you today and open possibilities for your future. Together we identify the best way to address your long or short-term goals.
Interested in understanding how past challenges impact life today? Curious about what is getting in the way of your ability to genuinely enjoy a life worth celebrating? We can work together to understand what is happening for you today and open possibilities for your future. Together we identify the best way to address your long or short-term goals.
(314) 649-5844 View (314) 649-5844
Photo of Nicholas Maio-Aether, MAMFT, MSPSY, LBA, CSC, IBA
Nicholas Maio-Aether
MAMFT, MSPSY, LBA, CSC, IBA
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
NOTE: I do have a waitlist, currently, but I am Clinical Director/Supervisor of some amazing clinicians who adhere to the same models and philosophy as I. Utilizing systemic principles and effective methodology, I work with clients of all backgrounds, sexualities, genders, and relationship dynamics. Clients come to me to work on sexual and/or sociosexual concerns, including low desire, infidelity, lack of partnership skills, poor impulsivity control, coming out, inner shame, exploring new dynamics and/or kinks, and also for vaginal pain and erectile dysfunction.
NOTE: I do have a waitlist, currently, but I am Clinical Director/Supervisor of some amazing clinicians who adhere to the same models and philosophy as I. Utilizing systemic principles and effective methodology, I work with clients of all backgrounds, sexualities, genders, and relationship dynamics. Clients come to me to work on sexual and/or sociosexual concerns, including low desire, infidelity, lack of partnership skills, poor impulsivity control, coming out, inner shame, exploring new dynamics and/or kinks, and also for vaginal pain and erectile dysfunction.
(314) 310-6534 View (314) 310-6534
Photo of Robert Hackleman - Robert Hackleman LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Hackleman LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
I can help by providing tools to escape feeling anxious, depressed, fearful, overworked, underappreciated, or overwhelmed. It has been reported that the single most important factor in determining the success of therapy is not the therapeutic model the practitioner uses, rather it is the therapeutic relationship. Knowing this, I strive to make you feel comfortable and begin to trust the therapeutic process. As we explore problems and dilemmas, you will gain new insights and perspectives.
I can help by providing tools to escape feeling anxious, depressed, fearful, overworked, underappreciated, or overwhelmed. It has been reported that the single most important factor in determining the success of therapy is not the therapeutic model the practitioner uses, rather it is the therapeutic relationship. Knowing this, I strive to make you feel comfortable and begin to trust the therapeutic process. As we explore problems and dilemmas, you will gain new insights and perspectives.
(314) 888-5151 View (314) 888-5151
Photo of Eric Jones, LMSW
Eric Jones
LMSW
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
Do you feel like you have been treading water for ages, barely able to keep your head above water? Or maybe you couldn’t tread any longer and have just been drowning? Maybe you’ve been searching for a lifeline, a pathway back to you. The you before all the hurt, pain, and confusion. You, who had a strong sense of self and who was not afraid to live authentically and vibrantly. But every time those bad experiences rise to the surface, you push them down. And the truth is that pushing it all down is just as tiring as you imagine addressing them head on would be. I know that you're tired of saying you’re okay when you are far from it.
Do you feel like you have been treading water for ages, barely able to keep your head above water? Or maybe you couldn’t tread any longer and have just been drowning? Maybe you’ve been searching for a lifeline, a pathway back to you. The you before all the hurt, pain, and confusion. You, who had a strong sense of self and who was not afraid to live authentically and vibrantly. But every time those bad experiences rise to the surface, you push them down. And the truth is that pushing it all down is just as tiring as you imagine addressing them head on would be. I know that you're tired of saying you’re okay when you are far from it.
(314) 876-7357 View (314) 876-7357
Photo of Jamie Kraushaar, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Kraushaar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
I strive to help clients feel accepted and supported while providing a safe space to work towards mental health goals in Missouri and Florida. I use an evidence based therapeutic approach to construct healthy solutions to life concerns. We will work on discovering your coping abilities, resources, skills and strengths to help you navigate success in life.
I strive to help clients feel accepted and supported while providing a safe space to work towards mental health goals in Missouri and Florida. I use an evidence based therapeutic approach to construct healthy solutions to life concerns. We will work on discovering your coping abilities, resources, skills and strengths to help you navigate success in life.
(417) 275-0176 View (417) 275-0176
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LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.