Transgender Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Alayo Bascome, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Alayo Bascome
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW, CPC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (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 Katie Douglass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Katie Douglass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (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. My style is warm, active, and authentic. Starting therapy is hard, so my priority in early sessions is for you to feel relaxed, understood, and comfortable. Your laughter and questions are welcomed. With a background in LGBTQ+ public health, I am sensitive to the challenges and stressors that come with living outside cisgender/hetero norms. I also value subjugated knowledge​ - the wisdom we possess from not fitting into the dominant culture.
I am a Queer-identified therapist with over 20 years of experience working with diverse Transgender, Queer, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Gay identified individuals. My style is warm, active, and authentic. Starting therapy is hard, so my priority in early sessions is for you to feel relaxed, understood, and comfortable. Your laughter and questions are welcomed. With a background in LGBTQ+ public health, I am sensitive to the challenges and stressors that come with living outside cisgender/hetero norms. I also value subjugated knowledge​ - the wisdom we possess from not fitting into the dominant culture.
(929) 415-9936 View (929) 415-9936
Photo of Mickey Field - Jamron Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Mickey Field - Jamron Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249  (Online Only)
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 Jacob Wangel-Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Jacob Wangel-Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249
I’m a trans and queer psychotherapist and World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Certified Member. I’m dedicated to providing safe, therapeutic space for transgender, gender expansive, queer, and questioning clients. As a dual-state licensed clinician in California and New York, my clinical practice, Trans Affirming Therapy serves to fill a critical need in creating competent, affirming, accessible care for our community and offers a warm environment to explore, process, and repair relationships within the self and with others. We’ll explore how your lived experience impacts your internal and external worlds.
I’m a trans and queer psychotherapist and World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Certified Member. I’m dedicated to providing safe, therapeutic space for transgender, gender expansive, queer, and questioning clients. As a dual-state licensed clinician in California and New York, my clinical practice, Trans Affirming Therapy serves to fill a critical need in creating competent, affirming, accessible care for our community and offers a warm environment to explore, process, and repair relationships within the self and with others. We’ll explore how your lived experience impacts your internal and external worlds.
(818) 431-2297 View (818) 431-2297
Photo of Nayeli Azul Salazar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Nayeli Azul Salazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11237  (Online Only)
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space so you can speak openly about your experiences. I bring understanding working with LGBTQ+ individuals, first and second-generation immigrants, sex workers, and those in non-monogamous relationships. As a Latina transgender woman, I understand the importance of receiving affirming care that honors your unique identity and experiences. I want to hear your values and goals to help guide the direction of therapy.
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space so you can speak openly about your experiences. I bring understanding working with LGBTQ+ individuals, first and second-generation immigrants, sex workers, and those in non-monogamous relationships. As a Latina transgender woman, I understand the importance of receiving affirming care that honors your unique identity and experiences. I want to hear your values and goals to help guide the direction of therapy.
(332) 244-1248 View (332) 244-1248
Photo of Lana Hurst, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Lana Hurst
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Waitlist for new clients
As a transgender woman who grew up in a politically and religiously conservative context, I know that change and healing can be terrifying.
Let’s say therapy works for you, what do you imagine will be different about your life? I always ask this question in our initial session, because therapy is about helping you get where you’re trying to go. My role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where curiosity is natural, compassion is the baseline, and exploration is key. To do this, I believe that a positive and strong relationship between therapist and client is essential. I typically work with clients who are navigating gender identity, life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and/or trauma—especially religious/spiritual trauma.
As a transgender woman who grew up in a politically and religiously conservative context, I know that change and healing can be terrifying.
Let’s say therapy works for you, what do you imagine will be different about your life? I always ask this question in our initial session, because therapy is about helping you get where you’re trying to go. My role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where curiosity is natural, compassion is the baseline, and exploration is key. To do this, I believe that a positive and strong relationship between therapist and client is essential. I typically work with clients who are navigating gender identity, life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and/or trauma—especially religious/spiritual trauma.
(347) 391-3629 View (347) 391-3629
Photo of Mia Paige Mikowicz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Mia Paige Mikowicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11238
I primarily work with individuals and couples seeking sex therapy, and offer a variety of techniques including motivational interviewing, CBT, narrative therapy, and specialize in transgender, gender non-conforming, and non binary communities, as well as queer, poly, kink, and sex-positivity.
To be an alive person 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 motivational interviewing, CBT, narrative therapy, and specialize in transgender, gender non-conforming, and non binary communities, as well as queer, poly, kink, and sex-positivity.
To be an alive person 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.
View
Photo of Kelli Knabe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Kelli Knabe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 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 Levi M Stolove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Levi M Stolove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11218
It is through challenges that we can come to know ourselves better and gain insight into making the most of the lives we have. Therapy is a unique space to explore obstacles, become clear about what you want in life and how to get there. 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.
It is through challenges that we can come to know ourselves better and gain insight into making the most of the lives we have. Therapy is a unique space to explore obstacles, become clear about what you want in life and how to get there. 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.
(347) 408-2754 View (347) 408-2754
Photo of Ami B. Kaplan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Ami B. Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Specialties: Difficult or narcissistic parents, Gender Variance/Transgender issues, Relationships, Assertion. I help people feel more comfortable with their own agenda, deal with difficult individuals and change entrenched roles in relationships.
Specialties: Difficult or narcissistic parents, Gender Variance/Transgender issues, Relationships, Assertion. I help people feel more comfortable with their own agenda, deal with difficult individuals and change entrenched roles in relationships.
(646) 583-1185 View (646) 583-1185
Photo of Laura A Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Laura A Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11234  (Online Only)
Lesbian, bisexual, gay, straight, queer, questioning, pansexual, asexual, trans, transgender, transsexual, nonbinary, genderqueer, gender nonconforming, detransitioner, kinky, BDSM, sex worker, vanilla, monogamous, single, polyamorous, even unicorn – let's improve your life.
We can all live rewarding, empowered lives. As someone with multiple intersecting identities, I understand the horrific effects of trauma, stigma, and mental/emotional health. I seek to establish a comfortable environment in which we can safely ask questions to help you make empowered decisions while we simultaneously investigate questions of meaning. I never require a client ‘prove’ their identity to me.
Lesbian, bisexual, gay, straight, queer, questioning, pansexual, asexual, trans, transgender, transsexual, nonbinary, genderqueer, gender nonconforming, detransitioner, kinky, BDSM, sex worker, vanilla, monogamous, single, polyamorous, even unicorn – let's improve your life.
We can all live rewarding, empowered lives. As someone with multiple intersecting identities, I understand the horrific effects of trauma, stigma, and mental/emotional health. I seek to establish a comfortable environment in which we can safely ask questions to help you make empowered decisions while we simultaneously investigate questions of meaning. I never require a client ‘prove’ their identity to me.
(845) 304-7915 View (845) 304-7915
Photo of Cherish Dawn Bookless in Brooklyn, NY
Cherish Dawn Bookless
MA, MHC LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Adults Children Teens Elders (65+) LGBTQ Transgender Allied Bisexual Allied Gay Allied Non- Binary Allied Lesbian Allied.
I am a Mental Health Counselor, who has a Masters Degree in Applied Behavioral Psychology and Advanced Certification in Mental Health Counseling. I offer my clients psychotherapy with an integrative approach, utilizing different theoretical frameworks to individualize a therapeutic plan for every person, group, and couple I work with. I primarily focus on CBT, Person-Centered, DBT, Relational, Psychodynamic, mindfulness, and meditation, but offer other techniques listed below. ​ My own philosophy is based on a holistic approach, so I do not always focus on diagnoses or pathology. However, I do recognize that sometimes it is needed.
Adults Children Teens Elders (65+) LGBTQ Transgender Allied Bisexual Allied Gay Allied Non- Binary Allied Lesbian Allied.
I am a Mental Health Counselor, who has a Masters Degree in Applied Behavioral Psychology and Advanced Certification in Mental Health Counseling. I offer my clients psychotherapy with an integrative approach, utilizing different theoretical frameworks to individualize a therapeutic plan for every person, group, and couple I work with. I primarily focus on CBT, Person-Centered, DBT, Relational, Psychodynamic, mindfulness, and meditation, but offer other techniques listed below. ​ My own philosophy is based on a holistic approach, so I do not always focus on diagnoses or pathology. However, I do recognize that sometimes it is needed.
(347) 752-5707 View (347) 752-5707
Photo of Yi Zhou, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Yi Zhou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
In my practice, I play a crucial role in helping clients navigate the complexities of mental health challenges and various life transitions. Specializing in gender dysphoria and the intricate processes of transition, I provide dedicated support to individuals navigating these unique journeys. In recognizing the diversity of human relationships, I work with clients across various relationship forms, including those engaged in non-monogamous dynamics. My goal is to assist individuals, couples and families in achieving a greater sense of unity and satisfaction in their lives.
In my practice, I play a crucial role in helping clients navigate the complexities of mental health challenges and various life transitions. Specializing in gender dysphoria and the intricate processes of transition, I provide dedicated support to individuals navigating these unique journeys. In recognizing the diversity of human relationships, I work with clients across various relationship forms, including those engaged in non-monogamous dynamics. My goal is to assist individuals, couples and families in achieving a greater sense of unity and satisfaction in their lives.
(646) 751-0647 View (646) 751-0647
Photo of Laurel Wright, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Laurel Wright
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11238
I also teach seminars and doctoral level courses on topics including: LGBTQ mental health, gender dysphoria and evidence-based/integrative psychotherapy.
Psychotherapy is an intimate collaboration in self-discovery, problem-solving & relief of suffering. My aim is to meet you where you’re at, beginning from where you are right now. Together, we’ll locate the obstacles, fears and outgrown narratives separating you from embodying your most authentic self. We'll identify meaningful therapeutic goals based on your needs and tangible steps to reach them. I'm an active therapist who provides feedback and invites yours fully.
I also teach seminars and doctoral level courses on topics including: LGBTQ mental health, gender dysphoria and evidence-based/integrative psychotherapy.
Psychotherapy is an intimate collaboration in self-discovery, problem-solving & relief of suffering. My aim is to meet you where you’re at, beginning from where you are right now. Together, we’ll locate the obstacles, fears and outgrown narratives separating you from embodying your most authentic self. We'll identify meaningful therapeutic goals based on your needs and tangible steps to reach them. I'm an active therapist who provides feedback and invites yours fully.
View
Photo of Gabriel DeCicco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Gabriel DeCicco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217
My work is focused on but not limited to working with the LGBT and, in particular, the Transgender/Gender Expansive community.
Are you looking to live the best version of your life possible? We all navigate through life in the best way we know how. I want to work with you to discover what is holding you back, what keeps you up at night, and what prevents you from navigating toward your goals. I work in a conversational and interactive manner and strive to be as present with you in the work as possible. Our work together will help you understand your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Ultimately, the goal is for you to be in the best position possible to build successful relationships and succeed in your endeavors. Happiness and health are within reach!
My work is focused on but not limited to working with the LGBT and, in particular, the Transgender/Gender Expansive community.
Are you looking to live the best version of your life possible? We all navigate through life in the best way we know how. I want to work with you to discover what is holding you back, what keeps you up at night, and what prevents you from navigating toward your goals. I work in a conversational and interactive manner and strive to be as present with you in the work as possible. Our work together will help you understand your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Ultimately, the goal is for you to be in the best position possible to build successful relationships and succeed in your endeavors. Happiness and health are within reach!
(914) 930-2075 View (914) 930-2075
Photo of Kevin Goldwater, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Kevin Goldwater
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I meet with clients of diverse backgrounds, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, complex PTSD, gender dysphoria, substance use, self harm, LGBQ and TGNB identities, and men’s health.
I provide attuned and empathic psychotherapy to individuals and groups, offering a warm, curious, creative and even humorous space. I believe the dynamic between client and therapist is one of our most valuable assets in therapy. Each individual brings their own perception of their needs and worldview, so I place great focus on identity, culture, and environment for this space to not only process personal struggles but to also combat oppressive exteriors that compromise our wellbeing. With compassion, energy and curiosity, I show up to meet you where you are to support and hold space for you to feel safe and seen.
I meet with clients of diverse backgrounds, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, complex PTSD, gender dysphoria, substance use, self harm, LGBQ and TGNB identities, and men’s health.
I provide attuned and empathic psychotherapy to individuals and groups, offering a warm, curious, creative and even humorous space. I believe the dynamic between client and therapist is one of our most valuable assets in therapy. Each individual brings their own perception of their needs and worldview, so I place great focus on identity, culture, and environment for this space to not only process personal struggles but to also combat oppressive exteriors that compromise our wellbeing. With compassion, energy and curiosity, I show up to meet you where you are to support and hold space for you to feel safe and seen.
(929) 545-6766 View (929) 545-6766
Photo of Regina Wu 伍嘉嫣, Licensed Master Social Worker in Brooklyn, NY
Regina Wu 伍嘉嫣
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11213  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting young adults navigating high school and college transitions, cross-cultural diasporic struggles (hello fellow children of immigrants!), LGBTQIA+ issues, with a focus on transgender communities and gender-affirming care.
Hello! Do you need support in navigating a world that does not affirm your identities? Living in a world that tells you over and over again that something is “wrong” with you can lead to pain, grief, and an unfulfilling life. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and rooted in liberation and anti-oppression frameworks. As a proud queer, trans and nonbinary Chinese American, I am committed to the lifelong work of abolition and collective care in the field of mental health and beyond.
I specialize in supporting young adults navigating high school and college transitions, cross-cultural diasporic struggles (hello fellow children of immigrants!), LGBTQIA+ issues, with a focus on transgender communities and gender-affirming care.
Hello! Do you need support in navigating a world that does not affirm your identities? Living in a world that tells you over and over again that something is “wrong” with you can lead to pain, grief, and an unfulfilling life. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and rooted in liberation and anti-oppression frameworks. As a proud queer, trans and nonbinary Chinese American, I am committed to the lifelong work of abolition and collective care in the field of mental health and beyond.
(929) 335-9450 View (929) 335-9450
Photo of César Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
César Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11206  (Online Only)
My therapy philosophy values that no person is in need of "fixing" and that healing can be found in a space that centers listening, reflection, play, non-judgment, and curiosity. My aim is to deepen your personal wisdom and become more connected to your mind-body-spirit system. I am experienced working with clients who struggle with trauma recovery, gender dysphoria, neurodivergency, poly/CNM relationships, sexuality, substance use, oppression, disordered eating, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and grief.
My therapy philosophy values that no person is in need of "fixing" and that healing can be found in a space that centers listening, reflection, play, non-judgment, and curiosity. My aim is to deepen your personal wisdom and become more connected to your mind-body-spirit system. I am experienced working with clients who struggle with trauma recovery, gender dysphoria, neurodivergency, poly/CNM relationships, sexuality, substance use, oppression, disordered eating, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and grief.
(929) 560-6243 View (929) 560-6243
Photo of Ernie Cote, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Ernie Cote
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
I work with adolescents and adults on a wide range of challenges from general counseling and adjustment issues (feeling "stuck") to more clinical issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma and sexual issues. I focus on LGBT clients, particularly in the area of transgender identity, but have a diverse client base overall. I have experience working with clients that have issues related to polyamory, the kink community, and navigating these issues within relationships. I also have interns and supervisees that can see sliding scale clients from various populations.
I work with adolescents and adults on a wide range of challenges from general counseling and adjustment issues (feeling "stuck") to more clinical issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma and sexual issues. I focus on LGBT clients, particularly in the area of transgender identity, but have a diverse client base overall. I have experience working with clients that have issues related to polyamory, the kink community, and navigating these issues within relationships. I also have interns and supervisees that can see sliding scale clients from various populations.
(646) 798-9419 View (646) 798-9419
Photo of Charlene Baudet, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Charlene Baudet
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
I am accepting new clients who are 16-65 years old and suffer from a range of challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, gender dysphoria, and substance use/misuse/abuse.
Hi! I'm Charlene, and I'll keep this nice and short for you since I also know what it's like to be scrolling through psychtoday on the hunt for a new therapist but overwhelmed by your options. In not so many words, I'm a French-Moroccan licensed mental health counselor specialized in LGBTQ+ health and wellness. I am trained and experienced in the Harm Reduction Psychotherapy to also help clients with any substance use/misuse/and/or abuse reach their goals. Using a person-centered approach I am here to help you reach your goals and thrive in your day to day life.
I am accepting new clients who are 16-65 years old and suffer from a range of challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, gender dysphoria, and substance use/misuse/abuse.
Hi! I'm Charlene, and I'll keep this nice and short for you since I also know what it's like to be scrolling through psychtoday on the hunt for a new therapist but overwhelmed by your options. In not so many words, I'm a French-Moroccan licensed mental health counselor specialized in LGBTQ+ health and wellness. I am trained and experienced in the Harm Reduction Psychotherapy to also help clients with any substance use/misuse/and/or abuse reach their goals. Using a person-centered approach I am here to help you reach your goals and thrive in your day to day life.
(347) 970-5677 View (347) 970-5677
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.