LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Apex, NC

Photo of Jasmin K Ahluwalia, MSW, LCSW, CST, L2 IFST, L1 CGT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmin K Ahluwalia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST, L2 IFST, L1 CGT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27539  (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 Julia Bernards, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia Bernards
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
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 Ashley Lee, MS, LCMHCA, Counselor
Ashley Lee
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27539
We are not meant to hurt alone. Starting therapy can be the best decision that you can make for yourself. Ashley is passionate about guiding her clients through their unique journey of self-discovery, building self-esteem, and healing. Ashley enjoys pulling strength and resiliency out of her clients. Ashley believes counseling is a collaborative venture, walking alongside, embracing, encouraging, and inspiring all to become the best version of themselves, and when appropriate, to dig into life’s complexities. Ashley’s specializations extend to helping women, teens, LGBTQ+ community, life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma.
We are not meant to hurt alone. Starting therapy can be the best decision that you can make for yourself. Ashley is passionate about guiding her clients through their unique journey of self-discovery, building self-esteem, and healing. Ashley enjoys pulling strength and resiliency out of her clients. Ashley believes counseling is a collaborative venture, walking alongside, embracing, encouraging, and inspiring all to become the best version of themselves, and when appropriate, to dig into life’s complexities. Ashley’s specializations extend to helping women, teens, LGBTQ+ community, life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma.
(919) 980-9406 View (919) 980-9406
Photo of Savannah Lorraine Swartout, LCMHC-A, MA, Counselor
Savannah Lorraine Swartout
Counselor, LCMHC-A, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
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.
Accepting virtual midday sessions. By integrating a strengths-based approach to counseling, I focus on clients ingrained power and how they can use personal attributes to live a life that this authentic to their own self-imposed values. By using humor & creating a warm non-judgmental environment I embrace each client’s unique needs with enthusiasm and determination. 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. All are welcome here!
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.
Accepting virtual midday sessions. By integrating a strengths-based approach to counseling, I focus on clients ingrained power and how they can use personal attributes to live a life that this authentic to their own self-imposed values. By using humor & creating a warm non-judgmental environment I embrace each client’s unique needs with enthusiasm and determination. 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. All are welcome here!
(919) 752-4307 View (919) 752-4307
Photo of Jourdan Brickey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jourdan Brickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502  (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
Photo of Shea Rouse, LCSW-A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shea Rouse
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Waitlist for new clients
I am a LGBTQ+ affirming and culturally responsive therapist.
Hi! My name is Shea, and I want to support and empower you to become your most authentic self. I provide a safe and collaborative space that encourages curiosity, healing, and growth. We will find the tools you need to cope with and overcome the challenges you are facing. You are the expert of your own experiences and I am interested in learning more about you. Let’s work together to create the life you want to live.
I am a LGBTQ+ affirming and culturally responsive therapist.
Hi! My name is Shea, and I want to support and empower you to become your most authentic self. I provide a safe and collaborative space that encourages curiosity, healing, and growth. We will find the tools you need to cope with and overcome the challenges you are facing. You are the expert of your own experiences and I am interested in learning more about you. Let’s work together to create the life you want to live.
(919) 893-0700 View (919) 893-0700
Photo of Brett Maher, PsyD, Psychologist
Brett Maher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
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 Meaghan Henry, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meaghan Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
I help adult and teenage Women, and Trans persons.
Are you interested in therapy, but worry about finding someone you can relate to and trust? Do you feel overwhelmed and wonder why life is so hard? Are you struggling with anxiety, ADHD, Autism, health concerns, parenting, problems at work, or a recent life change? No matter what challenge brings you here, I’m ready to help! I offer a down-to-Earth approach with unique solutions for real problems. We will identify your strengths and together create a plan to meet your goals on your terms. You are in control. Change can be a difficult process, but I am here to walk through it with you.
I help adult and teenage Women, and Trans persons.
Are you interested in therapy, but worry about finding someone you can relate to and trust? Do you feel overwhelmed and wonder why life is so hard? Are you struggling with anxiety, ADHD, Autism, health concerns, parenting, problems at work, or a recent life change? No matter what challenge brings you here, I’m ready to help! I offer a down-to-Earth approach with unique solutions for real problems. We will identify your strengths and together create a plan to meet your goals on your terms. You are in control. Change can be a difficult process, but I am here to walk through it with you.
(984) 300-4724 View (984) 300-4724
Photo of Bethany Minster, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany Minster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 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 chronic illness ,life transitions, interpersonal conflict and setting boundaries, finding freedom from eating disorders/disordered eating, anxiety and depression.
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 chronic illness ,life transitions, interpersonal conflict and setting boundaries, finding freedom from eating disorders/disordered eating, anxiety and depression.
(919) 276-8572 View (919) 276-8572
Photo of Jennifer Lieberman Schiappa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Lieberman Schiappa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
I work with clients ages 15 on up struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes who desire to improve mood and learn healthy coping skills. I have experience working with people on the autism spectrum as well as people diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. LGBTQIA+ friendly. "You don't have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you." -Dan Millman
I work with clients ages 15 on up struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes who desire to improve mood and learn healthy coping skills. I have experience working with people on the autism spectrum as well as people diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. LGBTQIA+ friendly. "You don't have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you." -Dan Millman
(919) 635-1854 View (919) 635-1854
Photo of Jesse Parrish, LCSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jesse Parrish
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
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 Nikki Sargent, LCSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nikki Sargent
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Special interests of mine include grief and loss therapy, trauma-focused therapy and LGBTQ+ issues. Please consider therapy with me to be a safe place for all ages, identities, sexualities, religions, races, and socioeconomic statuses. I will make every effort to use my education, experience, and genuine care for you to help move you through difficult times, past or present.
Special interests of mine include grief and loss therapy, trauma-focused therapy and LGBTQ+ issues. Please consider therapy with me to be a safe place for all ages, identities, sexualities, religions, races, and socioeconomic statuses. I will make every effort to use my education, experience, and genuine care for you to help move you through difficult times, past or present.
(984) 314-1474 View (984) 314-1474
Photo of Anna May, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Anna May
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Waitlist for new clients
As a mental health counselor, I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples overcome their struggles and achieve a fulfilling life. I hold strong values of compassion, empathy, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background, beliefs, or sexual orientation. I have experience working with individuals, couples, parents, and families. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and ENM affirming.
As a mental health counselor, I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples overcome their struggles and achieve a fulfilling life. I hold strong values of compassion, empathy, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background, beliefs, or sexual orientation. I have experience working with individuals, couples, parents, and families. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and ENM affirming.
(919) 887-8874 View (919) 887-8874
Photo of Amelia Kelley, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR,  RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amelia Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR, RYT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. 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.
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. 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.
(919) 794-8350 View (919) 794-8350
Photo of Fswc Therapists - Family Solutions and Wellness Center, LMFT, LCMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Family Solutions and Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Our team offers specialties in working with individuals, couples, families, trauma, anxiety, depression, racial identity, polyamorous/CNM couples, self esteem, self harm, sex therapy and LGBTQ+ services.
FSWC is a private practice serving Cary & Wilmington, NC, as well as 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 - www.FamilySolutionsAndWellness.com. Finding a good fit is important!
Our team offers specialties in working with individuals, couples, families, trauma, anxiety, depression, racial identity, polyamorous/CNM couples, self esteem, self harm, sex therapy and LGBTQ+ services.
FSWC is a private practice serving Cary & Wilmington, NC, as well as 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 - www.FamilySolutionsAndWellness.com. Finding a good fit is important!
(919) 648-1438 View (919) 648-1438
Photo of Sabrina Longley, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabrina Longley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I am proudly LGBTQIA+ affirming, neurodivergent affirming, and fat positive.
Fat, Black, Neurodivergent, Queer. This is your safe space to feel seen, heard, validated, affirmed, and celebrated. Experiencing oppression, a lack of safety in who you are, living in a world deeply not made for you. I understand how painful this can be, and I also understand that it’s possible to build your own world. Surrounded by the right people, and with a profound sense of self-worth. As you go through life your relationship with others and even yourself can bring stress, anger, hopelessness, and other emotions which become too much to handle alone.
I am proudly LGBTQIA+ affirming, neurodivergent affirming, and fat positive.
Fat, Black, Neurodivergent, Queer. This is your safe space to feel seen, heard, validated, affirmed, and celebrated. Experiencing oppression, a lack of safety in who you are, living in a world deeply not made for you. I understand how painful this can be, and I also understand that it’s possible to build your own world. Surrounded by the right people, and with a profound sense of self-worth. As you go through life your relationship with others and even yourself can bring stress, anger, hopelessness, and other emotions which become too much to handle alone.
(984) 985-2078 View (984) 985-2078
Photo of Meena Statz, CRC, LCMHC, LPC, LPCC
Meena Statz
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, CRC, LCMHC, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with South Asian and African American women (ages 25-50) living in NC, WI, and MN who are ready to address and treat anxiety, depression, OCD, or trauma. My main areas of interest are the effects of the immigrant experience and biculturalism on mental health and wellness. I also am well versed in queer, transgender, and non-binary needs in treatment. Therapy with me provides clients with a culturally sensitive experience, as I work with clients closely to create a practice that incorporates evidence based practices in a non-oppressive environment.
I work with South Asian and African American women (ages 25-50) living in NC, WI, and MN who are ready to address and treat anxiety, depression, OCD, or trauma. My main areas of interest are the effects of the immigrant experience and biculturalism on mental health and wellness. I also am well versed in queer, transgender, and non-binary needs in treatment. Therapy with me provides clients with a culturally sensitive experience, as I work with clients closely to create a practice that incorporates evidence based practices in a non-oppressive environment.
(262) 383-4589 View (262) 383-4589
Photo of Cheri Coats, MA, LCAS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheri Coats
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27523
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 Shanna Tillman, PsyD, Psychologist
Shanna Tillman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27539
I've worked in a number of settings and my clients have included students, LGBTQIA, parents, veterans, people with disabilities, creatives, professionals and people struggling with or in recovery from addiction or other compulsive behaviors.
Life can be painful and in our efforts to cope, it's easy to get caught in self defeating patterns of thought, emotion and behavior. Sometimes, our challenges will resolve on their own and other times we need to address them more directly. It's hard to reach out, to admit we don't have it all together, but seeking therapy is a wise choice that takes incredible courage. I commend you for taking this step and promise to do my best to offer you a safe space to share your unique story, to heal and to grow.
I've worked in a number of settings and my clients have included students, LGBTQIA, parents, veterans, people with disabilities, creatives, professionals and people struggling with or in recovery from addiction or other compulsive behaviors.
Life can be painful and in our efforts to cope, it's easy to get caught in self defeating patterns of thought, emotion and behavior. Sometimes, our challenges will resolve on their own and other times we need to address them more directly. It's hard to reach out, to admit we don't have it all together, but seeking therapy is a wise choice that takes incredible courage. I commend you for taking this step and promise to do my best to offer you a safe space to share your unique story, to heal and to grow.
(919) 336-0428 View (919) 336-0428
Photo of Yuye Zhang, PhD, HSP-P, Psychologist
Yuye Zhang
Psychologist, PhD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals navigating life's complexities, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, and identity exploration. My clients often include people experiencing interpersonal concerns, survivors recovering from difficult experiences, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and individuals facing challenges related to neurodiversity. I also support people dealing with acculturation issues, particularly within the Asian community. My approach is rooted in empathy, genuine connection, cultural sensitivity, and evidence-based practices. I offer virtual therapy in 35 states as part of PSYPACT.
I specialize in working with individuals navigating life's complexities, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, and identity exploration. My clients often include people experiencing interpersonal concerns, survivors recovering from difficult experiences, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and individuals facing challenges related to neurodiversity. I also support people dealing with acculturation issues, particularly within the Asian community. My approach is rooted in empathy, genuine connection, cultural sensitivity, and evidence-based practices. I offer virtual therapy in 35 states as part of PSYPACT.
(919) 705-0672 View (919) 705-0672
1
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.