Therapists in Rockingham County, NC

Photo of Shanea Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rockingham County, NC
Shanea Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Reidsville, NC 27320
I specialize and have extensive experience in providing affirming care within the LGBTQ+ community particularly surrounding self-acceptance.
Grab a cozy blanket, and we can chat about finding your way together. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina with Irenic Therapy, PLLC. Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but I'm here to chat and see if I might be a good fit for you. I'm honored to be considered on your journey, and I'm here to offer my expertise. Like peeling back an onion, let's uncover your layers together! My therapy space welcomes vulnerability while fostering support. Sharing your life stories, experiences, and feelings in a safe, judgment-free space is central to my approach.
I specialize and have extensive experience in providing affirming care within the LGBTQ+ community particularly surrounding self-acceptance.
Grab a cozy blanket, and we can chat about finding your way together. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina with Irenic Therapy, PLLC. Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but I'm here to chat and see if I might be a good fit for you. I'm honored to be considered on your journey, and I'm here to offer my expertise. Like peeling back an onion, let's uncover your layers together! My therapy space welcomes vulnerability while fostering support. Sharing your life stories, experiences, and feelings in a safe, judgment-free space is central to my approach.
(336) 360-3830 View (336) 360-3830
Photo of Irenic Therapy, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rockingham County, NC
Irenic Therapy, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reidsville, NC 27320
Waitlist for new clients
We are a practice that is providing therapy to Families, Couples, individuals. We worked with a variety of clients struggles; anxiety, depression, bi-polar, family issues, LGBTQ specifics- coming out to the family, non-monogamous relationships, and living your best life especially in a non acceptance environment. With further specialization in Trauma Therapy for anyone who is suffering from a traumatic event in their life. We work with clients struggling with intimacy concerns and sex therapy. We also offer Sexual Harm Risk Assessments for juveniles.
We are a practice that is providing therapy to Families, Couples, individuals. We worked with a variety of clients struggles; anxiety, depression, bi-polar, family issues, LGBTQ specifics- coming out to the family, non-monogamous relationships, and living your best life especially in a non acceptance environment. With further specialization in Trauma Therapy for anyone who is suffering from a traumatic event in their life. We work with clients struggling with intimacy concerns and sex therapy. We also offer Sexual Harm Risk Assessments for juveniles.
(336) 344-7139 View (336) 344-7139
Photo of Kathy Kirstner, LCMHC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Rockingham County, NC
Kathy Kirstner, LCMHC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSEdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Reidsville, NC 27320
LCHMC - Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor - Struggling with anxiety or depression? Feeling stressed and overwhelmed or feel your mood changing often? I have over 20 years experience helping people resolve their difficulties and make decisions to help them move forward. I have experience with mood disorders, trauma, abuse, Together we'll navigate the obstacles which hold you back from who you want to be. I provide a safe and secure environment for you to find your path to meet your goals. Take that first step to make a positive change in your life. I work with teenagers, adults & families. I am also LGBTQ affirming.
LCHMC - Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor - Struggling with anxiety or depression? Feeling stressed and overwhelmed or feel your mood changing often? I have over 20 years experience helping people resolve their difficulties and make decisions to help them move forward. I have experience with mood disorders, trauma, abuse, Together we'll navigate the obstacles which hold you back from who you want to be. I provide a safe and secure environment for you to find your path to meet your goals. Take that first step to make a positive change in your life. I work with teenagers, adults & families. I am also LGBTQ affirming.
(336) 295-6257 View (336) 295-6257
Photo of Gail Eaves Price, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Rockingham County, NC
Gail Eaves Price
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC, PhD, Student
Verified Verified
Eden, NC 27288
ANOTHER ANXIETY EPISODE? I am here for you; I will help you with your daily struggles of anxiety symptoms. I know that you are tired of living in a state of panic, but you don't know how to change things or how to make the FEAR go away. Staying home in your SAFE ZONE rather than going out in public is your way to avoid these controlling symptoms of feeling like you are having a heart attack, fear of dying, feeling like you can't breathe, palms are sweaty, fear of being negatively judged, fear that people think that you are stupid, are fearful that you are going to do something "stupid looking," or fear that you are going crazy.
ANOTHER ANXIETY EPISODE? I am here for you; I will help you with your daily struggles of anxiety symptoms. I know that you are tired of living in a state of panic, but you don't know how to change things or how to make the FEAR go away. Staying home in your SAFE ZONE rather than going out in public is your way to avoid these controlling symptoms of feeling like you are having a heart attack, fear of dying, feeling like you can't breathe, palms are sweaty, fear of being negatively judged, fear that people think that you are stupid, are fearful that you are going to do something "stupid looking," or fear that you are going crazy.
(336) 203-7476 View (336) 203-7476
Photo of DSM Theraputic Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockingham County, NC
DSM Theraputic Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Madison, NC 27025  (Online Only)
Life is full of challenges that may impact our mental health for a moment or a lifetime. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty adjusting to life’s challenges, or relationship issues, I am here for you. Allow me to be a part of your journey to live a happier and healthier life. I believe you are the driver in therapy, as you know you best and I am here to provide hope and help you when you feel lost or off track. My job is to work myself out of a job. If you allow me the honor of being a part of your journey I promise to work as hard as you do.
Life is full of challenges that may impact our mental health for a moment or a lifetime. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty adjusting to life’s challenges, or relationship issues, I am here for you. Allow me to be a part of your journey to live a happier and healthier life. I believe you are the driver in therapy, as you know you best and I am here to provide hope and help you when you feel lost or off track. My job is to work myself out of a job. If you allow me the honor of being a part of your journey I promise to work as hard as you do.
(910) 519-8257 View (910) 519-8257
Photo of Sheryl Norris Ketner in Rockingham County, NC
Sheryl Norris Ketner
MEd, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reidsville, NC 27320
Not accepting new clients
Fisher Park Counseling is a private counseling practice located near downtown Greensboro. I offer a warm, safe, and inviting atmosphere where you can share your concerns and we can work towards positive changes. I welcome all ethnicities, sexual identities and and spiritual orientations. I am qualified to work with individuals and couples experiencing a number of concerns including mood disorders, sexual abuse, anxiety disorders, adjustment issues, relationship and family concerns and social issues to name a few.
Fisher Park Counseling is a private counseling practice located near downtown Greensboro. I offer a warm, safe, and inviting atmosphere where you can share your concerns and we can work towards positive changes. I welcome all ethnicities, sexual identities and and spiritual orientations. I am qualified to work with individuals and couples experiencing a number of concerns including mood disorders, sexual abuse, anxiety disorders, adjustment issues, relationship and family concerns and social issues to name a few.
(336) 542-2076 View (336) 542-2076

Online Therapists

Photo of Angela Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockingham County, NC
Angela Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am a member of the LGBTQ community.
Therapy is not always easy, but I will walk with you on your journey of self discovery as you work to achieve a better life. Together, we will strive to attain self confidence, self love and acceptance. You will no longer need to live a pain filled life. I will help you to work through grief, anger, shame, guilt or insecurity.
I am a member of the LGBTQ community.
Therapy is not always easy, but I will walk with you on your journey of self discovery as you work to achieve a better life. Together, we will strive to attain self confidence, self love and acceptance. You will no longer need to live a pain filled life. I will help you to work through grief, anger, shame, guilt or insecurity.
(919) 680-1723 View (919) 680-1723
Photo of Caroline A. Hall, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Rockingham County, NC
Caroline A. Hall
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I am particularly passionate about working with clients in the LGBTQIA+ and queer communities.
How much do you think about the stories that impact our lives? If you’re here, you’re taking the brave first step in exploring and taking charge of your own story. Maybe you want your future chapters to be more fulfilling or in line with your values. Maybe you want to reexamine the chapters of your past through an alternative perspective or with more compassion and understanding. Welcome! You’re in the right place. In sessions, I strive to create a safe, warm, and open environment that prioritizes empathy, compassion, and authenticity. This forms a foundation for us to dive deeper and ask the truly important questions.
I am particularly passionate about working with clients in the LGBTQIA+ and queer communities.
How much do you think about the stories that impact our lives? If you’re here, you’re taking the brave first step in exploring and taking charge of your own story. Maybe you want your future chapters to be more fulfilling or in line with your values. Maybe you want to reexamine the chapters of your past through an alternative perspective or with more compassion and understanding. Welcome! You’re in the right place. In sessions, I strive to create a safe, warm, and open environment that prioritizes empathy, compassion, and authenticity. This forms a foundation for us to dive deeper and ask the truly important questions.
(919) 944-8333 View (919) 944-8333
Photo of Cameron Garrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockingham County, NC
Cameron Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
Welcome to my page; I'm really glad you're here. I imagine you may be dealing with feelings of overwhelming anxiety, stress with your job/school or within your personal relationships, LGBTQ+ concerns, over indulgence in alcohol, feeling "stuck" or unsatisfied, or possibly wanting to work through childhood or more acute trauma. In therapy, you can begin to heal from your past, or learn ways to better manage/decrease any negative feelings holding you back from really living the life you want.
Welcome to my page; I'm really glad you're here. I imagine you may be dealing with feelings of overwhelming anxiety, stress with your job/school or within your personal relationships, LGBTQ+ concerns, over indulgence in alcohol, feeling "stuck" or unsatisfied, or possibly wanting to work through childhood or more acute trauma. In therapy, you can begin to heal from your past, or learn ways to better manage/decrease any negative feelings holding you back from really living the life you want.
(704) 842-3466 View (704) 842-3466
Photo of Emilee Futrell, Counselor in Rockingham County, NC
Emilee Futrell
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Emilee has experience working with young adult and adult individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, sports related concerns, and LGBTQIA+ issues. She also has worked with clients who have experienced trauma in many forms. She also enjoys working with athletes at all levels and recognizes the specific challenges that this community faces.
Emilee has experience working with young adult and adult individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, sports related concerns, and LGBTQIA+ issues. She also has worked with clients who have experienced trauma in many forms. She also enjoys working with athletes at all levels and recognizes the specific challenges that this community faces.
(704) 850-6706 View (704) 850-6706
Photo of Shaunda Randleman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockingham County, NC
Shaunda Randleman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28027
I am passionate about and specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ population, including clients exploring sexual/romantic orientation, gender expression, and transition. I work with adults 18 and up. I have experience working with grief/loss, trauma, crisis, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance abuse, and PTSD. I am accepting and affirming of all genders, races, nationalities, ages, and abilities. I utilize a person-centered approach and an eclectic combination of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy (MBCBT).
I am passionate about and specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ population, including clients exploring sexual/romantic orientation, gender expression, and transition. I work with adults 18 and up. I have experience working with grief/loss, trauma, crisis, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance abuse, and PTSD. I am accepting and affirming of all genders, races, nationalities, ages, and abilities. I utilize a person-centered approach and an eclectic combination of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy (MBCBT).
(704) 459-3958 View (704) 459-3958
Photo of Tori Carrice, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockingham County, NC
Tori Carrice
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Waitlist for new clients
I commit to anti-oppressive and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy.
Therapy is such a unique experience but what I appreciate most is that each therapeutic relationship is particular and solely for YOU. In my therapy practice, I collaborate with you around your wishes and hopes, ideally creating a space where you feel empowered and as much a facilitator of your progress as I am. I believe in the healing potentials of a safe and supportive relationship, and this is what I strive to cultivate with each of my clients. I feel comfortable working with folks around anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodivergence needs, and burnout from their helping/healing roles.
I commit to anti-oppressive and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy.
Therapy is such a unique experience but what I appreciate most is that each therapeutic relationship is particular and solely for YOU. In my therapy practice, I collaborate with you around your wishes and hopes, ideally creating a space where you feel empowered and as much a facilitator of your progress as I am. I believe in the healing potentials of a safe and supportive relationship, and this is what I strive to cultivate with each of my clients. I feel comfortable working with folks around anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodivergence needs, and burnout from their helping/healing roles.
(984) 646-6239 View (984) 646-6239
Photo of Nakita Noël LCSW Therapy, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockingham County, NC
Nakita Noël LCSW Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703
I am a queer, Black, fully-licensed therapist (LCSW) with over 10 years of clinical experience. I’ve worked with individuals as they face a terminal diagnosis; with patients who have experienced losses in their relationships and livelihood due to mental illness or a chronic condition; with couples as they navigate role shifts, parenting, and caregiving of elder family members; with clients whose life experience of social marginalization have led to depression; and with those presenting to their primary care doctor for stomach pain and heart palpitations, only to learn that anxiety is the root cause.
I am a queer, Black, fully-licensed therapist (LCSW) with over 10 years of clinical experience. I’ve worked with individuals as they face a terminal diagnosis; with patients who have experienced losses in their relationships and livelihood due to mental illness or a chronic condition; with couples as they navigate role shifts, parenting, and caregiving of elder family members; with clients whose life experience of social marginalization have led to depression; and with those presenting to their primary care doctor for stomach pain and heart palpitations, only to learn that anxiety is the root cause.
(919) 367-1353 View (919) 367-1353
Photo of Kimberly J Lackey, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Rockingham County, NC
Kimberly J Lackey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Ronda, NC 28670  (Online Only)
I work with clients on issues surrounding anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, gender identity and expression, family dynamics, relationship issues, self-discovery, and career exploration. I approach the therapeutic relationship creating a non-judgmental space where you can share and learn more about yourself and your motivations. I will help you look at your assumptions, patterns, behaviors that work for you or aren’t working for you to achieve your goals in therapy. Mindfulness and present moment awareness is incorporated into moving forward as we work together.
I work with clients on issues surrounding anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+, gender identity and expression, family dynamics, relationship issues, self-discovery, and career exploration. I approach the therapeutic relationship creating a non-judgmental space where you can share and learn more about yourself and your motivations. I will help you look at your assumptions, patterns, behaviors that work for you or aren’t working for you to achieve your goals in therapy. Mindfulness and present moment awareness is incorporated into moving forward as we work together.
(336) 536-6685 View (336) 536-6685
Photo of Katy Lynn Wogatzke, Counselor in Rockingham County, NC
Katy Lynn Wogatzke
Counselor, LCMHCA, LPSC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mocksville, NC 27028
I have extensive training in military and civilian natural disaster trauma, post-incarceration support, domestic violence, foster care, problem sexual behavior in children and teens, and supporting LGBTQ+ children as well as families of LGBTQ+ children.
While I've spent years supporting children and their families as a child therapist, I am also trained in exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) for specific phobias and specialize in working with both children and adults who struggle with big emotions, symptoms of OCD, anxiety, life transitions, school avoidance, and ADHD. I currently only provide services via telehealth and am available on Saturdays and Sundays.
I have extensive training in military and civilian natural disaster trauma, post-incarceration support, domestic violence, foster care, problem sexual behavior in children and teens, and supporting LGBTQ+ children as well as families of LGBTQ+ children.
While I've spent years supporting children and their families as a child therapist, I am also trained in exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) for specific phobias and specialize in working with both children and adults who struggle with big emotions, symptoms of OCD, anxiety, life transitions, school avoidance, and ADHD. I currently only provide services via telehealth and am available on Saturdays and Sundays.
(980) 393-6770 View (980) 393-6770
Photo of Stephanie Lewis-Myers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockingham County, NC
Stephanie Lewis-Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
I offer LGBTQ+ affirming care and I am IFS informed.
Accepting new clients for online therapy! Feeling confused or lost about where you fit in? Struggling to set boundaries with others? Or maybe overthinking is leaving you feeling burnt out and over it? Let’s work together to build you up, find your strengths, and make positive change! I’m here to help you learn to trust your intuition and recognize your unique gifts. My style is casual, authentic, and I will bring humor and real talk to our sessions. Let's work together to start to unpack the baggage of the past, heal old patterns and build the empowered life you are looking for. Book a free consult now at the website link below!
I offer LGBTQ+ affirming care and I am IFS informed.
Accepting new clients for online therapy! Feeling confused or lost about where you fit in? Struggling to set boundaries with others? Or maybe overthinking is leaving you feeling burnt out and over it? Let’s work together to build you up, find your strengths, and make positive change! I’m here to help you learn to trust your intuition and recognize your unique gifts. My style is casual, authentic, and I will bring humor and real talk to our sessions. Let's work together to start to unpack the baggage of the past, heal old patterns and build the empowered life you are looking for. Book a free consult now at the website link below!
(336) 815-5520 View (336) 815-5520
Photo of Daija Prather, Counselor in Rockingham County, NC
Daija Prather
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, NC 28075
My approach is empathetic and supportive, aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by all - LGBTQIA+ included.
Imagine a space where you're truly heard, understood, and supported, free from judgment. That's what therapy with me offers. Together, we navigate life's challenges, uncovering your strengths and empowering you to achieve your goals. Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety, healing from past traumas, or striving for personal growth, I provide a safe and compassionate environment for your journey towards emotional well-being and resilience. My client is ready to see change in their life and be encouraged and empowered to enjoy life on their terms.
My approach is empathetic and supportive, aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by all - LGBTQIA+ included.
Imagine a space where you're truly heard, understood, and supported, free from judgment. That's what therapy with me offers. Together, we navigate life's challenges, uncovering your strengths and empowering you to achieve your goals. Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety, healing from past traumas, or striving for personal growth, I provide a safe and compassionate environment for your journey towards emotional well-being and resilience. My client is ready to see change in their life and be encouraged and empowered to enjoy life on their terms.
(980) 203-3456 View (980) 203-3456
Photo of Devin Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockingham County, NC
Devin Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carrboro, NC 27510  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Incorporating warmth and humor to create a safe, comfortable therapeutic space, I will partner with you to address your mental health symptoms until you feel back in control of your mood, your thoughts, and your life. I work across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, adults, and families. My expertise includes trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavior management, family conflict, life transitions, and relationship issues through a predominantly Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) approach. As a queer cis female, I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Incorporating warmth and humor to create a safe, comfortable therapeutic space, I will partner with you to address your mental health symptoms until you feel back in control of your mood, your thoughts, and your life. I work across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, adults, and families. My expertise includes trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavior management, family conflict, life transitions, and relationship issues through a predominantly Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) approach. As a queer cis female, I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
(919) 823-7693 View (919) 823-7693
Photo of Sara Yang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockingham County, NC
Sara Yang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28117
Hi there! I am originally from Los Angeles, raised in Charlotte, NC, and proud to be Korean-American. As a Licensed Clinical Social worker and also an ally in the LGBTQIA+ community, I have experience in school-based therapy with children and psychotherapy with young adults. My passion lies in fostering healthy lifestyles and guiding clients through challenges like the journey of identity, cultural clashes, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, behavioral concerns, and transitions.
Hi there! I am originally from Los Angeles, raised in Charlotte, NC, and proud to be Korean-American. As a Licensed Clinical Social worker and also an ally in the LGBTQIA+ community, I have experience in school-based therapy with children and psychotherapy with young adults. My passion lies in fostering healthy lifestyles and guiding clients through challenges like the journey of identity, cultural clashes, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, behavioral concerns, and transitions.
(704) 538-4486 View (704) 538-4486
Photo of Brianna Knox | Trauma Specialist | Emdr Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rockingham County, NC
Brianna Knox | Trauma Specialist | Emdr Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
As a Black, Queer, Millennial therapist, I am passionate about providing relatable therapy to BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Millennials.
What could your life be without the shame and guilt of childhood trauma? You are struggling to feel worthy of love. You are uncertain of how to give it and often wondering if you will ever find a relationship that just feels good. I get it. It is so difficult to surround yourself with love in adulthood when the people who raised you didn't do so for you in childhood. Come and work with me. I'll help you heal your inner child and break cycles of intergenerational trauma, so that you can build a life and relationships that you will love.
As a Black, Queer, Millennial therapist, I am passionate about providing relatable therapy to BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Millennials.
What could your life be without the shame and guilt of childhood trauma? You are struggling to feel worthy of love. You are uncertain of how to give it and often wondering if you will ever find a relationship that just feels good. I get it. It is so difficult to surround yourself with love in adulthood when the people who raised you didn't do so for you in childhood. Come and work with me. I'll help you heal your inner child and break cycles of intergenerational trauma, so that you can build a life and relationships that you will love.
(704) 610-3278 View (704) 610-3278

See more therapy options for Rockingham County

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.