LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Apex, NC

Photo of Julia Bernards, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Julia Bernards
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Apex, NC 27502
The therapeutic work I know by heart includes couples’ issues, parenting, family cohesiveness, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+ identity exploration, faith journeys/ transitions, and trauma (including religious trauma).
It can get better. Just getting by in your life or relationships, or feeling like things are overwhelming, unsafe or out of control is worth getting help with. Feeling lost in a life transition is worth getting help with. Finding a way to thrive instead of just survive is worth getting help with. You can have help focusing your efforts on what will actually make a difference, so it can get better. Models I use to understand where you are & how to get where you want to go include Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Attachment-Based Family Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Neurobiology & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
The therapeutic work I know by heart includes couples’ issues, parenting, family cohesiveness, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+ identity exploration, faith journeys/ transitions, and trauma (including religious trauma).
It can get better. Just getting by in your life or relationships, or feeling like things are overwhelming, unsafe or out of control is worth getting help with. Feeling lost in a life transition is worth getting help with. Finding a way to thrive instead of just survive is worth getting help with. You can have help focusing your efforts on what will actually make a difference, so it can get better. Models I use to understand where you are & how to get where you want to go include Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Attachment-Based Family Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Neurobiology & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
(919) 705-0057 View (919) 705-0057
Photo of Jasmin K Ahluwalia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST, L2 IFST, L1 CGT
Jasmin K Ahluwalia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST, L2 IFST, L1 CGT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have experience working with diverse populations, including the LGBTQIA+ community, people of color, those who have experienced trauma, individuals exploring sexual and gender identity, & those with alternative relationship structures.
“You are perfect the way you are and you can always grow and do better” This statement is central to my approach and the kind of space I create for my clients. Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and stressful, but self-acceptance and self-love free us to build the skills we need to cope with relationships, family, work, and life. This journey is not easy. It requires self-reflection, awareness, exploration of thoughts and feelings, and a willingness to change. As a therapist, I believe that our mental health, sex life, and relationships are all interconnected and approach therapy from a holistic perspective.
I have experience working with diverse populations, including the LGBTQIA+ community, people of color, those who have experienced trauma, individuals exploring sexual and gender identity, & those with alternative relationship structures.
“You are perfect the way you are and you can always grow and do better” This statement is central to my approach and the kind of space I create for my clients. Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and stressful, but self-acceptance and self-love free us to build the skills we need to cope with relationships, family, work, and life. This journey is not easy. It requires self-reflection, awareness, exploration of thoughts and feelings, and a willingness to change. As a therapist, I believe that our mental health, sex life, and relationships are all interconnected and approach therapy from a holistic perspective.
(984) 459-7635 View (984) 459-7635
Photo of Savannah Lorraine Swartout, Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Savannah Lorraine Swartout
Counselor, LCMHC, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My passion is to help women & those in the LGBTQIA+ community reclaim their identities, find their voices, and learn how to harness their inner power in an uplifting and therapeutic manner.
I have experience working with a plethora of individuals who have experienced anxiety, depression, PTSD, conduct disorders, trauma related disorders, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. As each person is unique I implement individualized treatment approaches to therapy to best fit the needs of each client.
My passion is to help women & those in the LGBTQIA+ community reclaim their identities, find their voices, and learn how to harness their inner power in an uplifting and therapeutic manner.
I have experience working with a plethora of individuals who have experienced anxiety, depression, PTSD, conduct disorders, trauma related disorders, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. As each person is unique I implement individualized treatment approaches to therapy to best fit the needs of each client.
(919) 752-4307 View (919) 752-4307
Photo of Jourdan Brickey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jourdan Brickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a body positive, LGBTQ+ affirming therapist whose work is work is anti-oppressive and trauma informed.
Does it feel like you're constantly in a pattern of being misunderstood, undervalued, and overwhelmed? Do you feel like you know “better” but don't always "do better?" Does it feel like no matter how well you are doing in one part of your life, others are chaotic? Starting therapy doesn't always have to be done while in crisis. I know firsthand what it feels like to show up for myself, even when I don’t feel it. I specialize in working to support clients in developing a sense of stability and confidence, self-esteem and personal growth, overcoming intimacy issues, and becoming the best version of themselves.
I am a body positive, LGBTQ+ affirming therapist whose work is work is anti-oppressive and trauma informed.
Does it feel like you're constantly in a pattern of being misunderstood, undervalued, and overwhelmed? Do you feel like you know “better” but don't always "do better?" Does it feel like no matter how well you are doing in one part of your life, others are chaotic? Starting therapy doesn't always have to be done while in crisis. I know firsthand what it feels like to show up for myself, even when I don’t feel it. I specialize in working to support clients in developing a sense of stability and confidence, self-esteem and personal growth, overcoming intimacy issues, and becoming the best version of themselves.
(704) 270-6586 View (704) 270-6586
Brett Maher
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, life transitions, divorce, grief, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, trauma, abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, insomnia, and all personality disorders.
Are you feeling like your life needs a change but you are not sure where to start? It seems, as life becomes more complex, more and more people are suffering from the devastating effects of stress, depression and anxiety and can benefit from the support and insight that therapy provides. I am a NC Licensed Psychologist working clinically with a wide range of ages and issues. I've worked in the field for 20 years, in schools, day treatment, and the private practice setting with adults, families, couples and children; focusing on adjustment difficulties, relationship problems, childhood abuse and maladaptive coping.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, life transitions, divorce, grief, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, trauma, abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, insomnia, and all personality disorders.
Are you feeling like your life needs a change but you are not sure where to start? It seems, as life becomes more complex, more and more people are suffering from the devastating effects of stress, depression and anxiety and can benefit from the support and insight that therapy provides. I am a NC Licensed Psychologist working clinically with a wide range of ages and issues. I've worked in the field for 20 years, in schools, day treatment, and the private practice setting with adults, families, couples and children; focusing on adjustment difficulties, relationship problems, childhood abuse and maladaptive coping.
(919) 429-8751 View (919) 429-8751
Photo of Madison Petermann, Pre-Licensed Professional, LCMHCA
Madison Petermann
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCMHCA
Online Only
I aspire to create a LGBTQ+ affirming, sex/kink-positive, and neurodivergent-friendly environment where you can show up as your full self.
Healing isn’t linear, but with the right support, it can be transformative. I specialize in trauma therapy and have a particular passion for supporting people through life’s toughest moments. I have experience working with PTSD, C-PTSD, ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety Disorders. Healing isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is my therapy style. I want work with you to figure out the best, personalized strategies for managing challenges and building the skills you need for long-term growth.
I aspire to create a LGBTQ+ affirming, sex/kink-positive, and neurodivergent-friendly environment where you can show up as your full self.
Healing isn’t linear, but with the right support, it can be transformative. I specialize in trauma therapy and have a particular passion for supporting people through life’s toughest moments. I have experience working with PTSD, C-PTSD, ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety Disorders. Healing isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is my therapy style. I want work with you to figure out the best, personalized strategies for managing challenges and building the skills you need for long-term growth.
(984) 422-3096 View (984) 422-3096
Photo of Jennifer Lieberman Schiappa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Lieberman Schiappa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
LGBTQIA+ friendly
I use a Cognitive Behavioral approach to help people identify triggers, improve self talk, learn mindfulness skills, and learn healthy coping skills to manage struggles.
LGBTQIA+ friendly
I use a Cognitive Behavioral approach to help people identify triggers, improve self talk, learn mindfulness skills, and learn healthy coping skills to manage struggles.
(919) 635-1854 View (919) 635-1854
Photo of Bethany Dalton, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, CRC, NCC
Bethany Dalton
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, CRC, NCC
Online Only
I am • a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, trained in Yale LGBT-CBT and offering experienced and affirming support for our community • challenging the gender binary and systems of oppression with a transfeminism perspective • using cultural humility focused on anti-racism and multicultural intersectionality to treat minority stress • a HAES-aligned advocate for body positivity and acceptance of humans of all sizes, shapes, gender expressions, ability levels, and backgrounds • focused on intersectionality and cultural humility • trauma-informed and certified in grief counseling
I offer • support for neurodivergent individuals and people with disabilities, chronic illness, and chronic pain • experience with eating disorders, aging, sexuality, gender nonconformity, anxiety, depression, dissociative identity disorder, substance misuse • psychotherapy with mindfulness, creativity, and written expression to align internal parts
I am • a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, trained in Yale LGBT-CBT and offering experienced and affirming support for our community • challenging the gender binary and systems of oppression with a transfeminism perspective • using cultural humility focused on anti-racism and multicultural intersectionality to treat minority stress • a HAES-aligned advocate for body positivity and acceptance of humans of all sizes, shapes, gender expressions, ability levels, and backgrounds • focused on intersectionality and cultural humility • trauma-informed and certified in grief counseling
I offer • support for neurodivergent individuals and people with disabilities, chronic illness, and chronic pain • experience with eating disorders, aging, sexuality, gender nonconformity, anxiety, depression, dissociative identity disorder, substance misuse • psychotherapy with mindfulness, creativity, and written expression to align internal parts
(919) 355-0930 View (919) 355-0930
Photo of Bethany Keeler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Bethany Keeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and approach all clients with empathy and compassion.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here! My name is Bethany and I am an Outpatient Psychotherapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health and Wellness. My hope is that you find a space to feel heard and understood. Whether or not you are new to therapy or not, I know it takes a lot of strength to reach out. I would love to support you in your journey whether navigating anxiety, depression, chronic pain/illness ,life transitions, interpersonal conflict and setting boundaries.
I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and approach all clients with empathy and compassion.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here! My name is Bethany and I am an Outpatient Psychotherapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health and Wellness. My hope is that you find a space to feel heard and understood. Whether or not you are new to therapy or not, I know it takes a lot of strength to reach out. I would love to support you in your journey whether navigating anxiety, depression, chronic pain/illness ,life transitions, interpersonal conflict and setting boundaries.
(919) 276-8572 View (919) 276-8572
Photo of Jesse Parrish, Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Jesse Parrish
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Apex, NC 27502
I am also an ally and supporter of LGBT+ community.
Hello! I'm Jesse and happy to be accepting new clients! Once your intake paperwork is submitted, I should be able to start sessions within the week. We can meet either in office or remotely depending on your preference.
I am also an ally and supporter of LGBT+ community.
Hello! I'm Jesse and happy to be accepting new clients! Once your intake paperwork is submitted, I should be able to start sessions within the week. We can meet either in office or remotely depending on your preference.
(984) 367-4417 View (984) 367-4417
Photo of Fswc Therapists - Family Solutions and Wellness Center, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMHC
Family Solutions and Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Our team offers specialties in working with individuals, couples, families, trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, polyamorous/CNM couples, self esteem, self harm, sex therapy and LGBTQ+ services.
FSWC is a private practice serving Cary, Durham & Wilmington, NC, as well as providing state-wide telehealth services. We offer daytime, evening, and weekend appointments, and use an online scheduler to make booking appointments easy! If you don't see an available time online, please contact us and we will do our best to accommodate your needs. Please read more about each of our therapist on our website - finding a good fit is important!
Our team offers specialties in working with individuals, couples, families, trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, polyamorous/CNM couples, self esteem, self harm, sex therapy and LGBTQ+ services.
FSWC is a private practice serving Cary, Durham & Wilmington, NC, as well as providing state-wide telehealth services. We offer daytime, evening, and weekend appointments, and use an online scheduler to make booking appointments easy! If you don't see an available time online, please contact us and we will do our best to accommodate your needs. Please read more about each of our therapist on our website - finding a good fit is important!
(919) 648-1438 View (919) 648-1438
Photo of Sabrina Longley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Sabrina Longley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Fat, Black, Neurodivergent, Queer.
In therapy, I am an authentic, open, direct, funny and caring support on your journey. You know your life, your feelings, and your experiences. I know the skills and can view your life in an unconditionally positive and validating way. As we walk together on this journey of self-exploration there will be laughs, and sighs, and tears, and I hope, growth.
Fat, Black, Neurodivergent, Queer.
In therapy, I am an authentic, open, direct, funny and caring support on your journey. You know your life, your feelings, and your experiences. I know the skills and can view your life in an unconditionally positive and validating way. As we walk together on this journey of self-exploration there will be laughs, and sighs, and tears, and I hope, growth.
(984) 985-2078 View (984) 985-2078
Photo of Alison York, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CCMHC
Alison York
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CCMHC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with couples from all walks of life, including LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse partnerships, and create a safe, affirming space to unpack the pain, rebuild trust, and reconnect on a deeper level.
Wheather you're in the aftermath of infidelity, navigating recovery from substance abuse or simply feel stuck in a cycle of hurt and disconnection - I'm here to help. Together, we'll explore the patterns keeping you apart and build new ways of relating that foster security, understanding, and real emotional closeness.
I work with couples from all walks of life, including LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse partnerships, and create a safe, affirming space to unpack the pain, rebuild trust, and reconnect on a deeper level.
Wheather you're in the aftermath of infidelity, navigating recovery from substance abuse or simply feel stuck in a cycle of hurt and disconnection - I'm here to help. Together, we'll explore the patterns keeping you apart and build new ways of relating that foster security, understanding, and real emotional closeness.
(919) 670-5075 View (919) 670-5075
Photo of Meena Statz, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, CRC, LCMHC, LPC, LPCC
Meena Statz
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, CRC, LCMHC, LPC, LPCC
Online Only
I also am well versed in queer, transgender, and non-binary needs in treatment.
As a woman of color, I provide a unique cultural lens through which I provide therapy. I utilize EMDR therapy and other evidenced based trauma treatments to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. I also am a yoga teacher and implement movement and mindfulness into sessions if needed.
I also am well versed in queer, transgender, and non-binary needs in treatment.
As a woman of color, I provide a unique cultural lens through which I provide therapy. I utilize EMDR therapy and other evidenced based trauma treatments to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. I also am a yoga teacher and implement movement and mindfulness into sessions if needed.
(262) 383-4589 View (262) 383-4589
Photo of Anna May At Brinkley Brown, Counselor, LCMHCA
Anna May At Brinkley Brown
Counselor, LCMHCA
Serves Area
My practice is LGBTQ+ and ENM-affirming, and I tailor therapy to your needs.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trapped by phobias, or stuck in cycles of conflict in your relationships. You want to communicate more effectively, feel more in control of your emotions, and build stronger, healthier connections. Whether you're an individual seeking relief from persistent anxiety or a couple or family struggling with miscommunication and tension, you’re looking for support to navigate these challenges and create lasting change.
My practice is LGBTQ+ and ENM-affirming, and I tailor therapy to your needs.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trapped by phobias, or stuck in cycles of conflict in your relationships. You want to communicate more effectively, feel more in control of your emotions, and build stronger, healthier connections. Whether you're an individual seeking relief from persistent anxiety or a couple or family struggling with miscommunication and tension, you’re looking for support to navigate these challenges and create lasting change.
(984) 309-3937 View (984) 309-3937
Photo of Cheri Coats, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHC
Cheri Coats
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I also work with a range of mental health and other life concerns including depression, anxiety, LGBTQ community concerns, trauma, grief, academic concerns, and personal growth.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are going through transition/change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. I see therapy as collaborative between therapist and client. I strive to get to know clients on an individual level including your strengths, challenges, goals, and beliefs. My goal is to help you identify aspects of your life that you would like to change and help you to use the strengths you already possess to reach your life goals. I find that clients appreciate that I am compassionate but direct.
I also work with a range of mental health and other life concerns including depression, anxiety, LGBTQ community concerns, trauma, grief, academic concerns, and personal growth.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are going through transition/change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. I see therapy as collaborative between therapist and client. I strive to get to know clients on an individual level including your strengths, challenges, goals, and beliefs. My goal is to help you identify aspects of your life that you would like to change and help you to use the strengths you already possess to reach your life goals. I find that clients appreciate that I am compassionate but direct.
(919) 694-6889 View (919) 694-6889
Photo of Emily Early, Counselor, LCMHCA
Emily Early
Counselor, LCMHCA
Serves Area
I am a trauma-informed, LGBTQ+ affirming therapist with a person-centered approach, dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space for healing.
My professional background includes working in community mental health, residential treatment, partial hospitalization, crisis hotline, and outpatient settings, where I have encountered individuals facing a wide variety of challenges. I worked in perinatal mental health for over 2 years, and enjoy working with children, teens, and families.
I am a trauma-informed, LGBTQ+ affirming therapist with a person-centered approach, dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space for healing.
My professional background includes working in community mental health, residential treatment, partial hospitalization, crisis hotline, and outpatient settings, where I have encountered individuals facing a wide variety of challenges. I worked in perinatal mental health for over 2 years, and enjoy working with children, teens, and families.
(984) 400-5077 View (984) 400-5077
Photo of Eric Knee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Eric Knee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Though I have worked with a diverse array of populations, most of my experience has been with survivors of traumatic experiences, anxiety/depression, people in recovery from substances, and the LGBTQ community.
Imagine beginning every day feeling energized, confident and ready to take on whatever comes your way. You might feel better about your progress with life goals, be able create meaningful and close relationships, maintain healthier habits, and have a regular sense of pride and accomplishment. You know you have so much potential, but may not know exactly how to reach it. I hope to join you on your journey by providing you with an emotionally safe space where you are able to authentically express yourself as well as feel supported and not judged.
Though I have worked with a diverse array of populations, most of my experience has been with survivors of traumatic experiences, anxiety/depression, people in recovery from substances, and the LGBTQ community.
Imagine beginning every day feeling energized, confident and ready to take on whatever comes your way. You might feel better about your progress with life goals, be able create meaningful and close relationships, maintain healthier habits, and have a regular sense of pride and accomplishment. You know you have so much potential, but may not know exactly how to reach it. I hope to join you on your journey by providing you with an emotionally safe space where you are able to authentically express yourself as well as feel supported and not judged.
(910) 838-6532 View (910) 838-6532
Photo of Amelia Kelley, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR, RYT
Amelia Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR, RYT
13 Endorsed
Serves Area
We specialize in treating addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, family discord, school issues, chronic pain and stress, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
I base our approach on your needs, ensuring a sense of safety and control over your treatment. Safety is paramount in treatments I offer, as I am an integrative, trauma therapist and am actively involved in research and implementation of trauma treatments such as; EMDR, Brain Spotting, IRT and Somatic Oriented Therapy, and Trauma Sensitive Yoga.
We specialize in treating addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, family discord, school issues, chronic pain and stress, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
I base our approach on your needs, ensuring a sense of safety and control over your treatment. Safety is paramount in treatments I offer, as I am an integrative, trauma therapist and am actively involved in research and implementation of trauma treatments such as; EMDR, Brain Spotting, IRT and Somatic Oriented Therapy, and Trauma Sensitive Yoga.
(919) 794-8350 View (919) 794-8350
Photo of Lisa Caprioli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Lisa Caprioli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I welcome clients from all ethnic and religious (or non-religious) backgrounds, and am an ally to LGBTQIA+ clients.
Are you an overwhelmed parent having difficulty balancing work and family responsibilities? Are you asking yourself why it's so hard for you to say no? Do you ever feel like an imposter? Perhaps you've been struggling with symptoms of anxiety or not feeling good enough. We have access to so much information on parenting, stress relief, relationships, and self-care that it can be overwhelming to figure out what works best for you. Sometimes, looking for the best advice can feel like a second job.
I welcome clients from all ethnic and religious (or non-religious) backgrounds, and am an ally to LGBTQIA+ clients.
Are you an overwhelmed parent having difficulty balancing work and family responsibilities? Are you asking yourself why it's so hard for you to say no? Do you ever feel like an imposter? Perhaps you've been struggling with symptoms of anxiety or not feeling good enough. We have access to so much information on parenting, stress relief, relationships, and self-care that it can be overwhelming to figure out what works best for you. Sometimes, looking for the best advice can feel like a second job.
(919) 634-6456 View (919) 634-6456

See more therapy options for Apex

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.