Transgender Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Trey Greene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Trey Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28215
I am a member of the Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group and an expert in LGBTQ issues.
My top priority is to provide a safe, supportive environment for anyone struggling with their identity, experiences, or beliefs in addition to other mental health concerns. I work with a variety of issues with a focus on PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, trauma, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, relationship difficulties, spirituality and/or religious trauma in addition to other concerns. I am especially passionate about work with anyone seeking a supportive space to heal, discover who they are, or navigate existential concerns, welcoming those of all beliefs in finding connection, hope, and peace.
I am a member of the Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group and an expert in LGBTQ issues.
My top priority is to provide a safe, supportive environment for anyone struggling with their identity, experiences, or beliefs in addition to other mental health concerns. I work with a variety of issues with a focus on PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, trauma, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, relationship difficulties, spirituality and/or religious trauma in addition to other concerns. I am especially passionate about work with anyone seeking a supportive space to heal, discover who they are, or navigate existential concerns, welcoming those of all beliefs in finding connection, hope, and peace.
(704) 419-8509 View (704) 419-8509
Photo of Jemma Battaglia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Jemma Battaglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am especially enthusiastic to work with individuals who are of a queer or transgender experience.
Operating through a queer lens, I lean into EMDR, parts work, existential wanderings, and narrative therapy to support you in moving through difficult moments, while identifying a path that reduces harm and promotes joy.
I am especially enthusiastic to work with individuals who are of a queer or transgender experience.
Operating through a queer lens, I lean into EMDR, parts work, existential wanderings, and narrative therapy to support you in moving through difficult moments, while identifying a path that reduces harm and promotes joy.
(828) 675-7823 View (828) 675-7823
Photo of Daphne Krantz, Counselor, LCMHCA, MA, NCC
Daphne Krantz
Counselor, LCMHCA, MA, NCC
5 Endorsed
Online Only
As a proud, openly transgender femme, I love providing space to explore the fullness of your humanity, not just your transness or queerness.
My goal as a therapist is to help you heal yourself, create healthier relationships, and befriend the parts of you that feel shameful or unloveable in order to access the gold buried within. I primarily use body-oriented IFS, and also incorporate ACT, psychodynamic approaches, Jungian dreamwork, and other techniques to attune to your unique needs.
As a proud, openly transgender femme, I love providing space to explore the fullness of your humanity, not just your transness or queerness.
My goal as a therapist is to help you heal yourself, create healthier relationships, and befriend the parts of you that feel shameful or unloveable in order to access the gold buried within. I primarily use body-oriented IFS, and also incorporate ACT, psychodynamic approaches, Jungian dreamwork, and other techniques to attune to your unique needs.
(828) 944-4273 View (828) 944-4273
Photo of Ashley Parks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ashley Parks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also specialize in transgender and women's issues.
The weight of trauma from abuse is an invisible burden that lingers long after the wounds have healed. It manifests as a constant, heavy presence—memories that replay without warning, fear that shapes your actions, and a deep sense of distrust in yourself and others. The emotional scars often feel insurmountable, making it difficult to feel safe, worthy, or loved. Every relationship, decision, and moment of peace is overshadowed by the pain of past experiences. It’s an internal struggle, where the mind and body carry the echoes of abuse, often leaving you feeling lost, isolated, and unsure of how to heal. Help is available.
I also specialize in transgender and women's issues.
The weight of trauma from abuse is an invisible burden that lingers long after the wounds have healed. It manifests as a constant, heavy presence—memories that replay without warning, fear that shapes your actions, and a deep sense of distrust in yourself and others. The emotional scars often feel insurmountable, making it difficult to feel safe, worthy, or loved. Every relationship, decision, and moment of peace is overshadowed by the pain of past experiences. It’s an internal struggle, where the mind and body carry the echoes of abuse, often leaving you feeling lost, isolated, and unsure of how to heal. Help is available.
(980) 480-5248 View (980) 480-5248
Photo of Becky Stamler, MA, LCMHC
Becky Stamler
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is to provide services to Transgender clients, ages 18-64.
I hope to provide a safe, non-judgmental space with emphasis on meeting each person's needs for gender therapy, related to my skill-set & training for gender identity. Support models include use of motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, emotional regulation, gender identity development, family education, informed consent, & WPATH guidelines
My focus is to provide services to Transgender clients, ages 18-64.
I hope to provide a safe, non-judgmental space with emphasis on meeting each person's needs for gender therapy, related to my skill-set & training for gender identity. Support models include use of motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, emotional regulation, gender identity development, family education, informed consent, & WPATH guidelines
(704) 912-0957 View (704) 912-0957
Photo of Jennifer Ratajczak - Rooted Therapy, MA, LCMHCS, NCC
Rooted Therapy
Verified Verified
27 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Jen serves as the Clinical Director at Rooted Therapy and 3 years on the Executive Board of the Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group.
Our small group of providers specialize in helping to uncover and empower authentic selves. Trans and Neuro-divergent competent trauma support to sort through what life has thrown your way! It can be overwhelming to sort through alone and often anxiety, depression, gender, relationships, and interpersonal trauma experiences are addressed when the time is right! The space we create together can foster internal communication between the different 'parts' of yourself to heal, grow, thrive, and find peaceful confidence. Explore together in the private safe space we build together or can invite loved ones to join at times.
Jen serves as the Clinical Director at Rooted Therapy and 3 years on the Executive Board of the Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group.
Our small group of providers specialize in helping to uncover and empower authentic selves. Trans and Neuro-divergent competent trauma support to sort through what life has thrown your way! It can be overwhelming to sort through alone and often anxiety, depression, gender, relationships, and interpersonal trauma experiences are addressed when the time is right! The space we create together can foster internal communication between the different 'parts' of yourself to heal, grow, thrive, and find peaceful confidence. Explore together in the private safe space we build together or can invite loved ones to join at times.
(704) 812-5347 View (704) 812-5347
Photo of Scarlett Greene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Scarlett Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients from various backgrounds, but I have a passion for serving the transgender and queer community.
Currently Accepting New Clients & LCSW Associate Supervisees. Additionally providing letters for emotional support animals and gender affirming care. Hi, I'm Scarlett; I am the owner and therapist at Grounded Guidance Counseling, PLLC, where I provide outpatient therapy services to individuals, couples, and polycules. I strive to meet my clients exactly where they are emotionally in a professional but relatable manner, as I desire to break down barriers that could make therapy feel intimidating for anyone involved. My therapy cat Kip is pictured below, and may make an appearance in sessions.
I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients from various backgrounds, but I have a passion for serving the transgender and queer community.
Currently Accepting New Clients & LCSW Associate Supervisees. Additionally providing letters for emotional support animals and gender affirming care. Hi, I'm Scarlett; I am the owner and therapist at Grounded Guidance Counseling, PLLC, where I provide outpatient therapy services to individuals, couples, and polycules. I strive to meet my clients exactly where they are emotionally in a professional but relatable manner, as I desire to break down barriers that could make therapy feel intimidating for anyone involved. My therapy cat Kip is pictured below, and may make an appearance in sessions.
(980) 385-8205 View (980) 385-8205
Photo of Beverly (Mecca) L Moss, Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, LCAS-A
Beverly (Mecca) L Moss
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, LCAS-A
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
Moss Counseling Services specializes in the following populations: Transgender, gender non-conforming, Lesbian ,Gay , Sexually aggressive youth, Trauma Focused(CBT), ADHD * Anxiety Disorder * Bipolar Disorder * Compulsive Disorder * Depression * Sexuality Identity * Childhood /adolescent Behavioral concerns, Learning /academic Disabilities * Panic Disorder * schizophrenia * Substance Abuse * Grief and Loss
"Beginning therapy can be a very difficult decision for one to make. I am so excited that you have taken the first step in this rewarding journey!" My passion and goals are to assist others to experience healing and wholeness in life through management of the symptoms that cause dysfunction in everyday lives. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As an integrated therapist my goal is to help you figure out how to use your own resiliency."
Moss Counseling Services specializes in the following populations: Transgender, gender non-conforming, Lesbian ,Gay , Sexually aggressive youth, Trauma Focused(CBT), ADHD * Anxiety Disorder * Bipolar Disorder * Compulsive Disorder * Depression * Sexuality Identity * Childhood /adolescent Behavioral concerns, Learning /academic Disabilities * Panic Disorder * schizophrenia * Substance Abuse * Grief and Loss
"Beginning therapy can be a very difficult decision for one to make. I am so excited that you have taken the first step in this rewarding journey!" My passion and goals are to assist others to experience healing and wholeness in life through management of the symptoms that cause dysfunction in everyday lives. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As an integrated therapist my goal is to help you figure out how to use your own resiliency."
(704) 493-8535 View (704) 493-8535
Photo of Tia Evans - THE Change From Within Counseling Center PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST
THE Change From Within Counseling Center PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
We also specialize in working with those who identify as Transgender, through all stages of their journey.
Are you walking through life feeling as though something is missing? Maybe, it's joy, fulfillment, success, career advancement, or even a relationship? Do you try to please others to avoid working on yourself? Is it possible you've tried to fix yourself, but it was just a matter of time before you fell back into your old habits? If you answered yes to any of those you questions you are not alone & you don't have to go through these feelings by yourself any longer. We want to you get the life you desire, the life you deserve. Let us help you get your life back on track TODAY! Please email us to get started on your journey of change.
We also specialize in working with those who identify as Transgender, through all stages of their journey.
Are you walking through life feeling as though something is missing? Maybe, it's joy, fulfillment, success, career advancement, or even a relationship? Do you try to please others to avoid working on yourself? Is it possible you've tried to fix yourself, but it was just a matter of time before you fell back into your old habits? If you answered yes to any of those you questions you are not alone & you don't have to go through these feelings by yourself any longer. We want to you get the life you desire, the life you deserve. Let us help you get your life back on track TODAY! Please email us to get started on your journey of change.
(828) 604-6241 View (828) 604-6241
Photo of Bill Stewart, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Bill Stewart
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Serves Area
I see a variety of clients with a focus on moral injury, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and gender dysphoria.
My sessions utilize a variety of techniques with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). In our in sessions, you can expect to identify and replace unhelpful or irrational thoughts that are impacting your emotions and behaviors. I also incorporate Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to assist with emotional regulation.
I see a variety of clients with a focus on moral injury, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and gender dysphoria.
My sessions utilize a variety of techniques with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). In our in sessions, you can expect to identify and replace unhelpful or irrational thoughts that are impacting your emotions and behaviors. I also incorporate Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to assist with emotional regulation.
(704) 850-9629 View (704) 850-9629
Photo of Sav Raynor, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, 200 RYT
Sav Raynor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, 200 RYT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I work with transgender individuals with PATH scholarships to receive access to affirming care.
I believe it is my job to collaborate with my clients to create a Narrative that feels authentic and attuned their passions, identities, and values. We often get lost in what we feel like we should or can't do, which confines us in little boxes that make it hard for us to feel vibrant and celebrate our uniqueness. I believe that when we explore and deconstruct the social constructions and dominant discourses in our social-cultural location and biases that don't align with our personal experiences or beliefs we have the autonomy and freedom to get in touch with our most core self and better understand how we interact with our world.
I work with transgender individuals with PATH scholarships to receive access to affirming care.
I believe it is my job to collaborate with my clients to create a Narrative that feels authentic and attuned their passions, identities, and values. We often get lost in what we feel like we should or can't do, which confines us in little boxes that make it hard for us to feel vibrant and celebrate our uniqueness. I believe that when we explore and deconstruct the social constructions and dominant discourses in our social-cultural location and biases that don't align with our personal experiences or beliefs we have the autonomy and freedom to get in touch with our most core self and better understand how we interact with our world.
(704) 610-0204 View (704) 610-0204
Photo of Sophie Reaves, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Sophie Reaves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as those exploring transgender and LGBTQ identities and experiences.
You deserve to feel seen, heard and understood, to be your best self and live your best life! My goal is to create an empowering space to draw from your strengths in overcoming current challenges. I work collaboratively with clients to establish ongoing, flexible goals for therapy to make our sessions most effective. I am particularly interested in the stories we tell about our lives and the meaning we make of them.
I specialize in working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as those exploring transgender and LGBTQ identities and experiences.
You deserve to feel seen, heard and understood, to be your best self and live your best life! My goal is to create an empowering space to draw from your strengths in overcoming current challenges. I work collaboratively with clients to establish ongoing, flexible goals for therapy to make our sessions most effective. I am particularly interested in the stories we tell about our lives and the meaning we make of them.
(828) 373-3145 View (828) 373-3145
Photo of Cady T Bartle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Cady T Bartle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
My specialties include anxiety, trauma, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ issues, minority stress, and family conflict.
I believe there is no one "right" way to therapy. Just like you are unique, your therapy should be unique to you. My practice draws from evidence-based modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapies , dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), family systems therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, and gender-affirming therapy.
My specialties include anxiety, trauma, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ issues, minority stress, and family conflict.
I believe there is no one "right" way to therapy. Just like you are unique, your therapy should be unique to you. My practice draws from evidence-based modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapies , dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), family systems therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, and gender-affirming therapy.
(704) 286-9971 View (704) 286-9971
Photo of LaKeysha Sawyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
LaKeysha Sawyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
l am dedicated to improving the mental health outcomes of those who struggle with anxiety and depression symptoms, trauma, gender dysphoria and relationship challenges amongst adults 18+ and LGBTQIA+ population.
I thrive in the areas of Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MCBT) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). I work with individuals 18+ in areas of anxiety, depression, family conflict, stress related concerns, and an open invitation to those within the LGBTQIA+ communities.
l am dedicated to improving the mental health outcomes of those who struggle with anxiety and depression symptoms, trauma, gender dysphoria and relationship challenges amongst adults 18+ and LGBTQIA+ population.
I thrive in the areas of Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MCBT) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). I work with individuals 18+ in areas of anxiety, depression, family conflict, stress related concerns, and an open invitation to those within the LGBTQIA+ communities.
(980) 470-6843 View (980) 470-6843
Photo of Annada Hypes, Psychologist, PhD
Annada Hypes
Psychologist, PhD
9 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Some of the things I treat are: depression, self-harm, anxiety, family conflict, gender dysphoria, transition to young adulthood stress, and disordered eating habits.
As a cis, white provider, I am a proud ally to LGBTQ+ youth and their families and aim to have a safe, affirming, inclusive space for all people. I received a BFA from The Ohio State University and a PhD in Clinical Health Psychology from UNC-Charlotte. I am a Licensed Psychologist (LP) and a Health Services Provider Psychologist (HSP-P).
Some of the things I treat are: depression, self-harm, anxiety, family conflict, gender dysphoria, transition to young adulthood stress, and disordered eating habits.
As a cis, white provider, I am a proud ally to LGBTQ+ youth and their families and aim to have a safe, affirming, inclusive space for all people. I received a BFA from The Ohio State University and a PhD in Clinical Health Psychology from UNC-Charlotte. I am a Licensed Psychologist (LP) and a Health Services Provider Psychologist (HSP-P).
(704) 256-0987 View (704) 256-0987
Photo of Kathy Shelton-Riek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kathy Shelton-Riek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Having more than 40 years of experience in the mental health field, I use multimodal therapy which is a holistic approach that integrates techniques from different therapies based on a specific theoretical framework when working with children, young adults, adults, geriatrics, couples, and individuals experiencing behavior issues, life stressors and adjustments to life transitions, mood disorders, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Sexual Addiction, polyamoury, LGBTQA+, transgender neurodivergent, grief, BIPOC, marriage and family issues, active military and veteran issues.
I attempt to create a non-judgmental, trusting. collaborative relationship with my clients based on mutual respect. Depending on the situation, I can use a very gentle tone to be very direct. Clients report feeling validated, listened to, having hope, and a better understanding of their symptoms and symptom management.
Having more than 40 years of experience in the mental health field, I use multimodal therapy which is a holistic approach that integrates techniques from different therapies based on a specific theoretical framework when working with children, young adults, adults, geriatrics, couples, and individuals experiencing behavior issues, life stressors and adjustments to life transitions, mood disorders, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Sexual Addiction, polyamoury, LGBTQA+, transgender neurodivergent, grief, BIPOC, marriage and family issues, active military and veteran issues.
I attempt to create a non-judgmental, trusting. collaborative relationship with my clients based on mutual respect. Depending on the situation, I can use a very gentle tone to be very direct. Clients report feeling validated, listened to, having hope, and a better understanding of their symptoms and symptom management.
(704) 901-8358 View (704) 901-8358
Photo of Eva Church, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Eva Church
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am also a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health).
Reaching out for help can be scary, yet here you are! Congratulations on taking that first step. Sometimes we have to do the hard thing when we want more for ourselves. Something I hear over and over from my clients is: after they asked for help, some of the weight they had been carrying around became lighter. My hope is the same will be true for you. Human beings are profoundly resilient. We have this ability to come back from our struggles. Therapy offers a reset to figure out our next step and how to get there.
I am also a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health).
Reaching out for help can be scary, yet here you are! Congratulations on taking that first step. Sometimes we have to do the hard thing when we want more for ourselves. Something I hear over and over from my clients is: after they asked for help, some of the weight they had been carrying around became lighter. My hope is the same will be true for you. Human beings are profoundly resilient. We have this ability to come back from our struggles. Therapy offers a reset to figure out our next step and how to get there.
(910) 679-9811 View (910) 679-9811
Photo of Tatim Lace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Tatim Lace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
Prior to private practice, I worked in a variety of community-based jobs including in-home family therapy, crisis response, domestic violence, and adolescents interfacing with the criminal justice system. Now I enjoy working mainly with young adults and adolescents, affirming their life experience and re-imagining what a full life looks like. I'm here for the clients who find themselves operating outside of societal norms and learning how to build their own path. My clinical lens is rooted in harm-reduction, person-in-environment and trauma-informed approaches.
Prior to private practice, I worked in a variety of community-based jobs including in-home family therapy, crisis response, domestic violence, and adolescents interfacing with the criminal justice system. Now I enjoy working mainly with young adults and adolescents, affirming their life experience and re-imagining what a full life looks like. I'm here for the clients who find themselves operating outside of societal norms and learning how to build their own path. My clinical lens is rooted in harm-reduction, person-in-environment and trauma-informed approaches.
(704) 396-4128 View (704) 396-4128
Photo of Joanna Garnett, Counselor, LCMHCA
Joanna Garnett
Counselor, LCMHCA
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Finding the right therapist to feel fully seen, safe and understood can be a journey. Especially if you embody one or more marginalized and misunderstood identities! I understand if you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or alone. I would be honored to support you on your journey of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and personal growth. I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and inclusive therapeutic environment where you can freely express yourself and discover your authentic self.
Finding the right therapist to feel fully seen, safe and understood can be a journey. Especially if you embody one or more marginalized and misunderstood identities! I understand if you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or alone. I would be honored to support you on your journey of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and personal growth. I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and inclusive therapeutic environment where you can freely express yourself and discover your authentic self.
(704) 325-5232 View (704) 325-5232
Photo of Jocie Sweeney - SweeneyPsych, Psychologist, PhD
SweeneyPsych
Psychologist, PhD
11 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
We have found that one of the most difficult steps in therapy is scheduling and attending the first appointment. Our aim is to reward that courage by collaboratively working with clients towards reaching their goals. Our methods are individually tailored to each client based on their needs. Our therapists are trained as generalists and work wide array of issues ranging from stress management, chronic medical conditions, life transitions, and gender affirmations to more severe concerns such as trauma. We specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adults. We use the Informed Consent Model for gender-affirming surgery letters. Email us!
We have found that one of the most difficult steps in therapy is scheduling and attending the first appointment. Our aim is to reward that courage by collaboratively working with clients towards reaching their goals. Our methods are individually tailored to each client based on their needs. Our therapists are trained as generalists and work wide array of issues ranging from stress management, chronic medical conditions, life transitions, and gender affirmations to more severe concerns such as trauma. We specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adults. We use the Informed Consent Model for gender-affirming surgery letters. Email us!
(980) 734-3347 View (980) 734-3347

See more therapy options for Charlotte

Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.