Transgender Therapists in Wilkes County, NC

Photo of Trey Greene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Trey Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Wanda Anthony Burger, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC, CCMC, CCS, PhD
Wanda Anthony Burger
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC, CCMC, CCS, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! At some point in life we find a need to talk to someone. Grief, loss, trauma, adjustment, relational issues are a few areas we can face. My specialties include: grief, trauma: civilian/military PTSD/PTSS, stress, substance abuse; Wellness Groups, Growing through Grief , prevention & early intervention. Boon and Katie, registered,therapy dogs, may join sessions. Boon began working at 9 weeks. In 2016 I added Military Trauma (CCMC) Certified Military Counselor Certificate. It was an honor to complete this certificate and begin working with our wonderful veterans and families. Come visit us at The Therapy House.
Hello! At some point in life we find a need to talk to someone. Grief, loss, trauma, adjustment, relational issues are a few areas we can face. My specialties include: grief, trauma: civilian/military PTSD/PTSS, stress, substance abuse; Wellness Groups, Growing through Grief , prevention & early intervention. Boon and Katie, registered,therapy dogs, may join sessions. Boon began working at 9 weeks. In 2016 I added Military Trauma (CCMC) Certified Military Counselor Certificate. It was an honor to complete this certificate and begin working with our wonderful veterans and families. Come visit us at The Therapy House.
(336) 344-7187 View (336) 344-7187

Online Therapists

Photo of Wyatt Roper, Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, LCSWA
Wyatt Roper
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
As a transgender, anti-oppressive, sex-work positive practitioner I aim to co-create a therapeutic container for each client that is radically your own.
Are you exploring your Gender and Sexuality? Are you feeling lost or afraid in navigating who you are during this time? Are you exploring what you want out of life? If so I may be the perfect Therapist for you! I work with individuals and couples in New York and North Carolina. I have been working within the clinical mental health field for many years with a focus on relationships, gender, sexuality, self-exploration, and joy.
As a transgender, anti-oppressive, sex-work positive practitioner I aim to co-create a therapeutic container for each client that is radically your own.
Are you exploring your Gender and Sexuality? Are you feeling lost or afraid in navigating who you are during this time? Are you exploring what you want out of life? If so I may be the perfect Therapist for you! I work with individuals and couples in New York and North Carolina. I have been working within the clinical mental health field for many years with a focus on relationships, gender, sexuality, self-exploration, and joy.
(929) 209-6727 View (929) 209-6727
Photo of Sophie Reaves, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Sophie Reaves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
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 Jemma Battaglia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Jemma Battaglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
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, and narrative therapy to support you in moving through difficult moments and 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, and narrative therapy to support you in moving through difficult moments and identifying a path that reduces harm and promotes joy.
(828) 675-7823 View (828) 675-7823
Photo of Ellet Durbin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ellet Durbin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am transgender, queer, and neurodivergent, and I love working with other queer identified and neurodivergent folks.
I hold a core belief that no one wants to be “bad” or do “bad.” Keeping this in mind, I prefer to highlight strengths and focus on how we learn and grow in our challenging moments. Therapy isn't one-size-fits-all, and I don't come in knowing exactly what will work for you. My goal is to approach each session with curiosity and to collaborate with you on a unique plan that pulls from your strengths and creativity. My style is direct and action-oriented. I won't just ask, “How does that make you feel?” I'll ask, “What are we going to do about it?” I’m trans, queer and neurodivergent, and I love working with folks of shared experience.
I am transgender, queer, and neurodivergent, and I love working with other queer identified and neurodivergent folks.
I hold a core belief that no one wants to be “bad” or do “bad.” Keeping this in mind, I prefer to highlight strengths and focus on how we learn and grow in our challenging moments. Therapy isn't one-size-fits-all, and I don't come in knowing exactly what will work for you. My goal is to approach each session with curiosity and to collaborate with you on a unique plan that pulls from your strengths and creativity. My style is direct and action-oriented. I won't just ask, “How does that make you feel?” I'll ask, “What are we going to do about it?” I’m trans, queer and neurodivergent, and I love working with folks of shared experience.
(828) 382-8370 View (828) 382-8370
Photo of Sav Raynor, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, 200 RYT
Sav Raynor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, 200 RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
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 Daphne Krantz, Counselor, LCMHCA, MA, NCC
Daphne Krantz
Counselor, LCMHCA, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
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, but 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, but incorporate ACT, psychodynamic approaches, Jungian dreamwork, and other techniques to attune to your unique needs.
(828) 944-4273 View (828) 944-4273
Photo of Rachael Lastoff, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, LPCC
Rachael Lastoff
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and am LGBTQIA welcoming and affirming.
Whether you have experienced a recent setback or are trying to come to terms with an ongoing struggle, my goal is to be an unbiased listener providing reflective and direct feedback to help you gain insight and clarity. I am a gender-affirming therapist specializing in working with those in a life transition, struggling with their identity, or looking to evolve from the way they were raised. In couples counseling, I work with monogamous, open/poly, and kink relationships.
I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and am LGBTQIA welcoming and affirming.
Whether you have experienced a recent setback or are trying to come to terms with an ongoing struggle, my goal is to be an unbiased listener providing reflective and direct feedback to help you gain insight and clarity. I am a gender-affirming therapist specializing in working with those in a life transition, struggling with their identity, or looking to evolve from the way they were raised. In couples counseling, I work with monogamous, open/poly, and kink relationships.
(859) 600-6738 View (859) 600-6738
Photo of Tabitha Giaquinto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTP
Tabitha Giaquinto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I am also a Board-Certified Transgender Care Therapist, EMDR trained through EMDRIA, and a Certified Telehealth Practitioner.
Hi there! My name is Tabitha Giaquinto, my pronouns are she/her/hers, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida, Delaware & North Carolina. I know finding a good match in a therapist can be difficult, especially if the idea of being vulnerable with someone brings a sense of discomfort. In my work with clients, I strive to provide unconditional positive support, a safe & inclusive environment for all, and individualized care for everyone I work with. I understand what it’s like to be on the couch of a therapist’s office and not know where to start, which gifts me the ability to understand & empathize with the uncertainty.
I am also a Board-Certified Transgender Care Therapist, EMDR trained through EMDRIA, and a Certified Telehealth Practitioner.
Hi there! My name is Tabitha Giaquinto, my pronouns are she/her/hers, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida, Delaware & North Carolina. I know finding a good match in a therapist can be difficult, especially if the idea of being vulnerable with someone brings a sense of discomfort. In my work with clients, I strive to provide unconditional positive support, a safe & inclusive environment for all, and individualized care for everyone I work with. I understand what it’s like to be on the couch of a therapist’s office and not know where to start, which gifts me the ability to understand & empathize with the uncertainty.
(772) 247-5189 View (772) 247-5189
Photo of Katharine Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Katharine Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a vast array of clinical knowledge and specialize in areas of depression, LGB issues, transgender issues, chronic illnesses, domestic violence and survivors of trauma.
The statement "embrace what you can become," is my core philosophy. Seeking help can be difficult and allowing yourself to be vulnerable can be too overwhelming to consider. But, if you have found this page, then you are ready.
I have a vast array of clinical knowledge and specialize in areas of depression, LGB issues, transgender issues, chronic illnesses, domestic violence and survivors of trauma.
The statement "embrace what you can become," is my core philosophy. Seeking help can be difficult and allowing yourself to be vulnerable can be too overwhelming to consider. But, if you have found this page, then you are ready.
(954) 880-3187 View (954) 880-3187
Photo of Mark S Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, PhD
Mark S Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Clients report significant benefit when they seek help dealing with changing ideas about yourself that may have resulted from trauma, relationship changes, chronic illness, grief & loss, gender dysphoria, and coming out as LGBTQ.
I utilize a variety of useful approaches including: narrative, DBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, attachment-focused practice, internal family systems, mindfulness, play therapy/sand tray, and group therapy.
Clients report significant benefit when they seek help dealing with changing ideas about yourself that may have resulted from trauma, relationship changes, chronic illness, grief & loss, gender dysphoria, and coming out as LGBTQ.
I utilize a variety of useful approaches including: narrative, DBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, attachment-focused practice, internal family systems, mindfulness, play therapy/sand tray, and group therapy.
(754) 212-8793 View (754) 212-8793
Photo of Blake Daniel Herd, Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Blake Daniel Herd
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
I provide individual therapy and testing for children, adolescents, and adults dealing with issues related to emotion regulation/depression, autism spectrum disorder, gender dysphoria, AD/HD, relationships, anxiety, and academic/work.
My approach to therapy operates from an evidence-based perspective. I work with my clients to tailor their treatment based on their unique needs incorporating various skills and elements from behavioral, cognitive, and humanistic therapy. This allows me to ensure that my clients receive individualized treatment from an integrated approach.
I provide individual therapy and testing for children, adolescents, and adults dealing with issues related to emotion regulation/depression, autism spectrum disorder, gender dysphoria, AD/HD, relationships, anxiety, and academic/work.
My approach to therapy operates from an evidence-based perspective. I work with my clients to tailor their treatment based on their unique needs incorporating various skills and elements from behavioral, cognitive, and humanistic therapy. This allows me to ensure that my clients receive individualized treatment from an integrated approach.
(336) 569-2099 View (336) 569-2099
Photo of Beverly (Mecca) L Moss, Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, LCAS-A
Beverly (Mecca) L Moss
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
4 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 Jacqueline Griffith, LCSW Associate, LCSW-A
Jacqueline Griffith
LCSW Associate, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
I also focus on women’s issues, self-esteem, relationships, and transgender concerns.
Together, we can explore emotions, manage stress and anxiety, build coping skills, and boost self-confidence. I strive to provide a supportive and welcoming environment to uncover unhelpful patterns, address unmet needs, and foster resilience. With genuine curiosity, I’ll help you navigate your concerns and the areas where you feel stuck.
I also focus on women’s issues, self-esteem, relationships, and transgender concerns.
Together, we can explore emotions, manage stress and anxiety, build coping skills, and boost self-confidence. I strive to provide a supportive and welcoming environment to uncover unhelpful patterns, address unmet needs, and foster resilience. With genuine curiosity, I’ll help you navigate your concerns and the areas where you feel stuck.
(910) 786-1304 View (910) 786-1304
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
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601
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 Annada Hypes, Psychologist, PhD
Annada Hypes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 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 Bill Stewart, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Bill Stewart
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
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 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 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 Kathy Shelton-Riek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kathy Shelton-Riek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
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 LaKeysha Sawyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
LaKeysha Sawyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
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 loving 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 loving invitation to those within the LGBTQIA+ communities.
(980) 470-6843 View (980) 470-6843

See more therapy options for Wilkes County

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.