Transgender Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Mere Fitzsimons, Counselor, LMHC
Mere Fitzsimons
Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Certified Member, I'm dedicated to providing a safe place for trans and queer clients to access gender-affirming care.
I work with people who feel like they’re too much and yet not enough, all at the same time. I'm a trans and queer therapist offering therapy for adults navigating anxiety, perfectionism, life transitions, and identity exploration. By approaching therapy through a trauma-informed neuroqueer lens, I work with clients to reject "shoulds" and celebrate their uniqueness to find pathways forward. I incorporate empathy, humor, and a no BS directness to provide a judgment-free space for clients to explore their experiences, heal their relationships, and meet their goals.
As a World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Certified Member, I'm dedicated to providing a safe place for trans and queer clients to access gender-affirming care.
I work with people who feel like they’re too much and yet not enough, all at the same time. I'm a trans and queer therapist offering therapy for adults navigating anxiety, perfectionism, life transitions, and identity exploration. By approaching therapy through a trauma-informed neuroqueer lens, I work with clients to reject "shoulds" and celebrate their uniqueness to find pathways forward. I incorporate empathy, humor, and a no BS directness to provide a judgment-free space for clients to explore their experiences, heal their relationships, and meet their goals.
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Photo of Alayo Bascome, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW, CPC
Alayo Bascome
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW, CPC
Online Only
Areas of specialty include (but are not limited to): Trauma and post-traumatic resilience; Chronic illness & Disability; Executive functioning; Parenthood; and Transgender/Gender expansive experiences across the lifespan.
Everyone comes to The Work in their own way, for their own reasons, in their own time. For some, it's a safe space to explore and grow as they need. For others it's a dedicated ear and a mind trained to help them resolve emotional conflicts, stress, anxiety, and depression. Still others long to be seen and embraced (in all of their complexity and nuance). Whatever journey has led you here, my goal is to help you step into the fullness of your Self and live the best life possible.
Areas of specialty include (but are not limited to): Trauma and post-traumatic resilience; Chronic illness & Disability; Executive functioning; Parenthood; and Transgender/Gender expansive experiences across the lifespan.
Everyone comes to The Work in their own way, for their own reasons, in their own time. For some, it's a safe space to explore and grow as they need. For others it's a dedicated ear and a mind trained to help them resolve emotional conflicts, stress, anxiety, and depression. Still others long to be seen and embraced (in all of their complexity and nuance). Whatever journey has led you here, my goal is to help you step into the fullness of your Self and live the best life possible.
(646) 849-9591 View (646) 849-9591
Photo of Berk L Milnarik, Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Berk L Milnarik
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Queer and transgender folks struggling with anxiety, isolation, trauma, depression, grief, stress, relationship issues, and existential despair.
You might look like you’ve got it all together on the outside, but inside, you’re running on empty. Maybe you’re feeling disconnected—numb, isolated, or stuck in a routine that doesn’t feel like you. You’ve been taught to "tough it out" and bury your emotions, but deep down, Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, or unresolved trauma, you're not alone—and you don’t have to carry this weight by yourself. Our work together is about helping you reclaim your vitality, your confidence, and your sense of purpose. We’ll explore healthier ways to cope, communicate, and connect with yourself and others.
Queer and transgender folks struggling with anxiety, isolation, trauma, depression, grief, stress, relationship issues, and existential despair.
You might look like you’ve got it all together on the outside, but inside, you’re running on empty. Maybe you’re feeling disconnected—numb, isolated, or stuck in a routine that doesn’t feel like you. You’ve been taught to "tough it out" and bury your emotions, but deep down, Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, or unresolved trauma, you're not alone—and you don’t have to carry this weight by yourself. Our work together is about helping you reclaim your vitality, your confidence, and your sense of purpose. We’ll explore healthier ways to cope, communicate, and connect with yourself and others.
(845) 303-2176 View (845) 303-2176
Photo of Mickey Field - Jamron Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Mickey Field - Jamron Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Waitlist for new clients
As a queer and transgender person, I understand the importance of having a safe and affirming space for self-exploration and strive to create a space without judgement.
One of the few certainties of life is change, which can come with excitement but also uncertainty and hardship. Whether you are experiencing the stressors of adolescence or young adulthood, confronting relationship issues, or wanting to examine your inner world, therapy can be a useful tool in navigating life transitions. I’m particularly interested in exploring issues surrounding anxiety, depression, relationships, self-worth, grief, gender identity, and sexuality. Together we can discover your wants and needs and take action towards reaching your goals.
As a queer and transgender person, I understand the importance of having a safe and affirming space for self-exploration and strive to create a space without judgement.
One of the few certainties of life is change, which can come with excitement but also uncertainty and hardship. Whether you are experiencing the stressors of adolescence or young adulthood, confronting relationship issues, or wanting to examine your inner world, therapy can be a useful tool in navigating life transitions. I’m particularly interested in exploring issues surrounding anxiety, depression, relationships, self-worth, grief, gender identity, and sexuality. Together we can discover your wants and needs and take action towards reaching your goals.
(929) 339-1569 View (929) 339-1569
Photo of Shana Salzberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Shana Salzberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a queer, transgender, Jewish, NY-based therapist offering individual counseling via Telehealth.
Finding the right therapist for you can be vulnerable and challenging. I believe that my clients are the experts in their own lives and my role is to empower them with skills to regulate emotions and get deeper in touch with the wisdom of the body. I deeply value working within an anti-oppression based framework. In addition to working with clients who identify as TGNC and/or queer, I specialize in working with folks who struggle with anxiety and depression and who are in recovery from substance use. I use a collaborative, individualized approach that honors you and your unique goals.
I’m a queer, transgender, Jewish, NY-based therapist offering individual counseling via Telehealth.
Finding the right therapist for you can be vulnerable and challenging. I believe that my clients are the experts in their own lives and my role is to empower them with skills to regulate emotions and get deeper in touch with the wisdom of the body. I deeply value working within an anti-oppression based framework. In addition to working with clients who identify as TGNC and/or queer, I specialize in working with folks who struggle with anxiety and depression and who are in recovery from substance use. I use a collaborative, individualized approach that honors you and your unique goals.
(929) 265-6934 View (929) 265-6934
Photo of Genna Ayres, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Genna Ayres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Brooklyn, NY 11226
Finding a therapist that is right for you can be a challenge, especially for queer, transgender, and non-binary folks.
My clinical approach is informed by gender theory, anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices, and my experience as a white queer and trans person. It is grounded in a client centered, trauma informed practice. I provide EMDR therapy and relational, psychodynamic therapy combined with elements of behavioral interventions, IFS, and somatic work.
Finding a therapist that is right for you can be a challenge, especially for queer, transgender, and non-binary folks.
My clinical approach is informed by gender theory, anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices, and my experience as a white queer and trans person. It is grounded in a client centered, trauma informed practice. I provide EMDR therapy and relational, psychodynamic therapy combined with elements of behavioral interventions, IFS, and somatic work.
(929) 297-9780 View (929) 297-9780
Photo of Katie Douglass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Katie Douglass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Online Only
I am a Queer-identified therapist with over 20 years of experience working with diverse Transgender, Queer, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Gay identified individuals.
I tend to be a good fit for people looking to address core negative beliefs, or taking a big step in life - like starting social/physical transition or becoming an LGBTQ+ parent (I'm a parent too). I frequently use EMDR (an evidenced-based treatment) to help clients feeling "stuck," anxious, or looking to resolve trauma or painful relationship patterns.
I am a Queer-identified therapist with over 20 years of experience working with diverse Transgender, Queer, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Gay identified individuals.
I tend to be a good fit for people looking to address core negative beliefs, or taking a big step in life - like starting social/physical transition or becoming an LGBTQ+ parent (I'm a parent too). I frequently use EMDR (an evidenced-based treatment) to help clients feeling "stuck," anxious, or looking to resolve trauma or painful relationship patterns.
(929) 415-9936 View (929) 415-9936
Photo of Avery Klotsche, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Avery Klotsche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Online Only
My telehealth practice serves adult clients who navigate concerns around gender dysphoria, experience challenges with their sexuality or sexual enjoyment, are members of the LGBTQ+ community, or have experiences with trauma and grief that impact their daily lives.
My specializations include sex therapy, trauma, and grief and my therapeutic orientation is relational, feminist, and behavioral. I work with people from diverse experiences and orientations, those living with disabilities, and folks within alt sex or ENM communities. For more on my background and training, please visit my website.
My telehealth practice serves adult clients who navigate concerns around gender dysphoria, experience challenges with their sexuality or sexual enjoyment, are members of the LGBTQ+ community, or have experiences with trauma and grief that impact their daily lives.
My specializations include sex therapy, trauma, and grief and my therapeutic orientation is relational, feminist, and behavioral. I work with people from diverse experiences and orientations, those living with disabilities, and folks within alt sex or ENM communities. For more on my background and training, please visit my website.
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Photo of H.l. 'lou' Himes - QuIPP: The Queer Identities Psychology Partnership, Psychologist, PsyD
QuIPP: The Queer Identities Psychology Partnership
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11207
Lou Himes is WPATH certified specialist in transgender mental health services and supervises all gender-affirming care at QuIPP.
At QuIPP, we are queer, non-binary, depth-oriented, feminist, and trauma-informed. Our therapeutic approaches include CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic and we seek to explore the deep impacts of others (familial, peer, and social) on the minds and spirits of our clients. Our clinical areas of expertise include: gender & sexuality, trauma, transition related support, and poly/kinky & sex positivity. Given that trauma and emotional pain often originate within relationships, we take a relational (and deeply compassionate) approach to therapy.
Lou Himes is WPATH certified specialist in transgender mental health services and supervises all gender-affirming care at QuIPP.
At QuIPP, we are queer, non-binary, depth-oriented, feminist, and trauma-informed. Our therapeutic approaches include CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic and we seek to explore the deep impacts of others (familial, peer, and social) on the minds and spirits of our clients. Our clinical areas of expertise include: gender & sexuality, trauma, transition related support, and poly/kinky & sex positivity. Given that trauma and emotional pain often originate within relationships, we take a relational (and deeply compassionate) approach to therapy.
(347) 897-0315 View (347) 897-0315
Photo of Jacob Wangel-Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jacob Wangel-Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a trans, queer psychotherapist and World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Certified Member.
My work centers individuals navigating challenges related to coming out, social and medical transition as well as interpersonal, familial, and intimate partner relationship dynamics. My client-therapist alliance centers collaboration, support, and acceptance. Theoretically, I approach our work from psychodynamic, relational, and narrative lenses.
I’m a trans, queer psychotherapist and World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Certified Member.
My work centers individuals navigating challenges related to coming out, social and medical transition as well as interpersonal, familial, and intimate partner relationship dynamics. My client-therapist alliance centers collaboration, support, and acceptance. Theoretically, I approach our work from psychodynamic, relational, and narrative lenses.
(818) 431-2297 View (818) 431-2297
Photo of Dr. Jess Olson, Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD, LP
Dr. Jess Olson
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD, LP
Serves Area
I am a transgender woman, and though I work with patients of all backgrounds, I work additionally with individuals struggling with issues of identity, including religious identity, gender, sexual orientation, and trauma.
As a classical psychoanalyst and a psychodynamic therapist, I am able to offer unparalleled tools for gaining the insight to treat not only surface symptoms of mental health struggles, but the underlying causes, the conflicts and traumas that shape our lives. My method is particularly suited for those struggling with transition and change in their lives.
I am a transgender woman, and though I work with patients of all backgrounds, I work additionally with individuals struggling with issues of identity, including religious identity, gender, sexual orientation, and trauma.
As a classical psychoanalyst and a psychodynamic therapist, I am able to offer unparalleled tools for gaining the insight to treat not only surface symptoms of mental health struggles, but the underlying causes, the conflicts and traumas that shape our lives. My method is particularly suited for those struggling with transition and change in their lives.
(929) 356-7298 View (929) 356-7298
Photo of Laura A Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Laura A Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Online Only
I assist people of all genders and sexualities: transgender, lesbian, gay, bisexual, nonbinary, genderqueer, gender nonconforming, kinky, queer, questioning, pansexual, asexual, detransitioner/retransitioner, Dominant, submissive, a sex worker, monogamous, polyamorous, unicorn, or even cisgender, straight/hetero, or vanilla… our goal is your happiness.
Therapy For Lives Inside and Outside the Box. As a therapist with over 15 years experience, my mission is to improve the lives of those living gender and sexually diverse lives… and to change the world. You should never have to justify your identity to a healthcare provider. I provide culturally competent, compassionate, and affirming psychotherapy where we can safely ask questions to help you make your own conscious decisions about your life. Our sessions are nonjudgmental, and client-centered, and are targeted at you and your needs. See my recent book: www.SurvivingTransphobia.com
I assist people of all genders and sexualities: transgender, lesbian, gay, bisexual, nonbinary, genderqueer, gender nonconforming, kinky, queer, questioning, pansexual, asexual, detransitioner/retransitioner, Dominant, submissive, a sex worker, monogamous, polyamorous, unicorn, or even cisgender, straight/hetero, or vanilla… our goal is your happiness.
Therapy For Lives Inside and Outside the Box. As a therapist with over 15 years experience, my mission is to improve the lives of those living gender and sexually diverse lives… and to change the world. You should never have to justify your identity to a healthcare provider. I provide culturally competent, compassionate, and affirming psychotherapy where we can safely ask questions to help you make your own conscious decisions about your life. Our sessions are nonjudgmental, and client-centered, and are targeted at you and your needs. See my recent book: www.SurvivingTransphobia.com
(845) 304-7915 View (845) 304-7915
Photo of Lana Hurst, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv
Lana Hurst
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m Lana Hurst (she/her), a transgender woman and queer affirming therapist specializing in gender identity, relationships, and life transitions.
I draw from depth-oriented psychodynamic and somatic approaches including Internal Family Systems and EMDR to help clients process life’s more complex experiences. I don’t see therapy as a way to “fix” you but as a place to make sense of your experiences, reconnect with yourself, and move through change in a way that feels meaningful and resonates with you.
I’m Lana Hurst (she/her), a transgender woman and queer affirming therapist specializing in gender identity, relationships, and life transitions.
I draw from depth-oriented psychodynamic and somatic approaches including Internal Family Systems and EMDR to help clients process life’s more complex experiences. I don’t see therapy as a way to “fix” you but as a place to make sense of your experiences, reconnect with yourself, and move through change in a way that feels meaningful and resonates with you.
(347) 391-3629 View (347) 391-3629
Photo of Hannah Ellerkamp, Psychologist, PsyD
Hannah Ellerkamp
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community and provide gender-affirming psychotherapy to transgender folks.
I’m a compassionate and authentic therapist who uses evidenced-based treatments. I collaborate with family members, schools, and healthcare providers as needed and requested to provide collaborative, well-rounded care.
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community and provide gender-affirming psychotherapy to transgender folks.
I’m a compassionate and authentic therapist who uses evidenced-based treatments. I collaborate with family members, schools, and healthcare providers as needed and requested to provide collaborative, well-rounded care.
(332) 334-4930 View (332) 334-4930
Photo of Kelli Knabe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Kelli Knabe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I specialize in working with adolescent clients (gay, lesbian, straight, questioning and transgender), which includes providing support and guidance to their parents.
Psychotherapy offers us the opportunity to have the support we need to examine those areas of our lives we find painful, confusing, and/or challenging. It is common for all of us from time to time to feel "stuck" in our lives, or faced with problems that we cannot seem to overcome. My goal is to help my clients access their internal and interpersonal resources in ways that are healing and help them gain a greater sense of personal agency in their lives. We may achieve this by exploring the past, looking at the present, or a combination of both.
I specialize in working with adolescent clients (gay, lesbian, straight, questioning and transgender), which includes providing support and guidance to their parents.
Psychotherapy offers us the opportunity to have the support we need to examine those areas of our lives we find painful, confusing, and/or challenging. It is common for all of us from time to time to feel "stuck" in our lives, or faced with problems that we cannot seem to overcome. My goal is to help my clients access their internal and interpersonal resources in ways that are healing and help them gain a greater sense of personal agency in their lives. We may achieve this by exploring the past, looking at the present, or a combination of both.
(646) 583-3379 View (646) 583-3379
Photo of Mia Mikowicz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mia Mikowicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I primarily work with individuals and couples seeking sex therapy, and offer a variety of techniques including somatic experiencing, narrative therapy, EMDR and specialize in transgender, gender non-conforming, and non binary communities, as well as queer, poly, kink, and sex-positivity.
To be alive on this planet in this political moment asks a great deal of us all. We are all tested uniquely, and as members of families and communities, in our ability to grow and embrace the hardships and sorrow that we face in our every day lives. And in the face of those challenges you have come this far because of your very own special brand of survival. Whether you are feeling stuck in your relationship(s), struggling to overcome structural or systemic barriers, or finding the weight of your thoughts and emotions insurmountable, know there is a great deal of strength inside you and I hope we can unlock it together.
I primarily work with individuals and couples seeking sex therapy, and offer a variety of techniques including somatic experiencing, narrative therapy, EMDR and specialize in transgender, gender non-conforming, and non binary communities, as well as queer, poly, kink, and sex-positivity.
To be alive on this planet in this political moment asks a great deal of us all. We are all tested uniquely, and as members of families and communities, in our ability to grow and embrace the hardships and sorrow that we face in our every day lives. And in the face of those challenges you have come this far because of your very own special brand of survival. Whether you are feeling stuck in your relationship(s), struggling to overcome structural or systemic barriers, or finding the weight of your thoughts and emotions insurmountable, know there is a great deal of strength inside you and I hope we can unlock it together.
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Photo of Ami B. Kaplan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ami B. Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Gender Variance/ Transgender issues, I also work with Relationships, Assertion and depresion.
I also help people cope with difficult life transitions such as coming out or transitioning. I have worked with transgendered individuals for several years, helping them to transition to the desired level of their chosen gender.
Gender Variance/ Transgender issues, I also work with Relationships, Assertion and depresion.
I also help people cope with difficult life transitions such as coming out or transitioning. I have worked with transgendered individuals for several years, helping them to transition to the desired level of their chosen gender.
(646) 583-1185 View (646) 583-1185
Photo of Levi M Stolove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Levi M Stolove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11218
I work with individuals age 12+ and couples with a wide range of struggles including depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, career stress, LGBTQIA+ concerns, transgender issues, communication difficulties and anger.
These are all great challenges but when confronted in a supportive open environment they can yield a stronger, more flexible, resilient individual who is also better able to connect to others. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic theory to assist in deepening your understanding of yourself and how your mind works.
I work with individuals age 12+ and couples with a wide range of struggles including depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, career stress, LGBTQIA+ concerns, transgender issues, communication difficulties and anger.
These are all great challenges but when confronted in a supportive open environment they can yield a stronger, more flexible, resilient individual who is also better able to connect to others. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic theory to assist in deepening your understanding of yourself and how your mind works.
(347) 408-2754 View (347) 408-2754
Photo of Simona Antonia Duque, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Simona Antonia Duque
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11216
I have experience working with queer, transgender, & gender expansive adults, BIPOC, sex workers, artists, sexual trauma, non-traditional relationships, neurodivergence, spirituality, & non-ordinary states of consciousness such as meditation & psychedelics.
— I'm prioritizing QTBIPOC clients for in-network therapy at this time — I’m a queer, nonbinary, & Colombian American therapist licensed in New York, Florida and Vermont. I believe in the power of the therapeutic alliance, aiming to create a warm, compassionate, & affirming container where clients feel seen in their authentic selves. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, collaborative, & holistic. My background in community herbalism, nightlife, contemplative practice, and creative expression offers a wealth of experiential knowledge that shapes my integrative approach as a therapist.
I have experience working with queer, transgender, & gender expansive adults, BIPOC, sex workers, artists, sexual trauma, non-traditional relationships, neurodivergence, spirituality, & non-ordinary states of consciousness such as meditation & psychedelics.
— I'm prioritizing QTBIPOC clients for in-network therapy at this time — I’m a queer, nonbinary, & Colombian American therapist licensed in New York, Florida and Vermont. I believe in the power of the therapeutic alliance, aiming to create a warm, compassionate, & affirming container where clients feel seen in their authentic selves. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, collaborative, & holistic. My background in community herbalism, nightlife, contemplative practice, and creative expression offers a wealth of experiential knowledge that shapes my integrative approach as a therapist.
(929) 239-3559 View (929) 239-3559
Photo of Yi Zhou, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Yi Zhou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Specializing in gender dysphoria and the intricate processes of transition, I provide dedicated support to individuals navigating these unique journeys.
Although there are thousands of treatment methods and approaches, establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic rapport is often the core of effective therapy. Working with clients, I take a person-centered, strength-based approach. I like meeting clients where they are and helping them to set up practical and tangible goals that make the most sense to them.
Specializing in gender dysphoria and the intricate processes of transition, I provide dedicated support to individuals navigating these unique journeys.
Although there are thousands of treatment methods and approaches, establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic rapport is often the core of effective therapy. Working with clients, I take a person-centered, strength-based approach. I like meeting clients where they are and helping them to set up practical and tangible goals that make the most sense to them.
(646) 751-0647 View (646) 751-0647
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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.