LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Shrewsbury, PA

Photo of Kimberly S Marsico, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly S Marsico
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, PA 17361  (Online Only)
When working with me, you can expect a safe, empathetic environment to share your needs. I help my clients to work through important relationships- past and present. We will work together to understand past issues that may be impacting your life currently. I believe in helping you find your personal strengths, purpose, and meaning to help create and realize your life goals.
When working with me, you can expect a safe, empathetic environment to share your needs. I help my clients to work through important relationships- past and present. We will work together to understand past issues that may be impacting your life currently. I believe in helping you find your personal strengths, purpose, and meaning to help create and realize your life goals.
(717) 801-1816 View (717) 801-1816
Photo of Dr. Debra Doubrava - Emdr Trauma And Play Focused, PhD, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Debra Doubrava - Emdr Trauma And Play Focused
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, PA 17361  (Online Only)
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.- John Watson...I am humbled & honored to have over 30 years experience working with clients of all ages & stages to lead more authentic, joyful, & peace-filled lives. I am an integrative, attachment focused & trauma-informed play therapist - inspired by theories grounded in client-centered, family systems, humanistic, Imago, mindfulness, & parts work. I enjoy working with a wide range of issues & diverse backgrounds in the human experience including LGBTQIA2S+. We all need to be truly seen and heard AND it is courageous and wise to seek help as we journey through life & love!
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.- John Watson...I am humbled & honored to have over 30 years experience working with clients of all ages & stages to lead more authentic, joyful, & peace-filled lives. I am an integrative, attachment focused & trauma-informed play therapist - inspired by theories grounded in client-centered, family systems, humanistic, Imago, mindfulness, & parts work. I enjoy working with a wide range of issues & diverse backgrounds in the human experience including LGBTQIA2S+. We all need to be truly seen and heard AND it is courageous and wise to seek help as we journey through life & love!
(717) 301-4263 View (717) 301-4263

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristin Hobson, LPC, NCC, NCSC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Hobson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, NCSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallastown, PA 17313
CALLING clients and families: Do you or your child struggle with depression and anxiety which makes a daily routine difficult? Do you or your child question on how to manage challenging moments in your life? Have you or your child experienced a traumatic event in your life that seems impossible to process? Do you feel like you are in a stage of crisis that makes it hard to manage daily norms? Have you had multiple anxiety attacks that left you exhausted and tired, but want to learn coping strategies? Do you question your confidence in your relationships, career and personal identity? Are you ready to START the healing process?
CALLING clients and families: Do you or your child struggle with depression and anxiety which makes a daily routine difficult? Do you or your child question on how to manage challenging moments in your life? Have you or your child experienced a traumatic event in your life that seems impossible to process? Do you feel like you are in a stage of crisis that makes it hard to manage daily norms? Have you had multiple anxiety attacks that left you exhausted and tired, but want to learn coping strategies? Do you question your confidence in your relationships, career and personal identity? Are you ready to START the healing process?
(717) 366-7530 View (717) 366-7530
Photo of Alexys Grim, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexys Grim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dallastown, PA 17313
Waitlist for new clients
Alexys Grim is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been working in the human services field since 2010. She has a variety of experience working with children, families and couples, including a background in domestic violence and substance abuse. Alexys uses a client focused approach in her sessions and strives for full engagement of clients in building a strength based treatment plan.
Alexys Grim is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been working in the human services field since 2010. She has a variety of experience working with children, families and couples, including a background in domestic violence and substance abuse. Alexys uses a client focused approach in her sessions and strives for full engagement of clients in building a strength based treatment plan.
(717) 584-9642 View (717) 584-9642
Photo of Peter Myers, MA, CNIT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peter Myers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CNIT
Verified Verified
Glen Rock, PA 17327
I have immediate openings Are you questioning what direction you are going in life? Are you feeling down and lack the normal energy or interest you have in life? Are you struggling with identity or having issues related to being othered? Do you worry about things you cannot control? Do you want to get from point A to point B? Do you just need someone to talk to in a safe space? This journey of life can be scary, confusing, and sometimes frustrating, are you ready to become the best version of yourself?
I have immediate openings Are you questioning what direction you are going in life? Are you feeling down and lack the normal energy or interest you have in life? Are you struggling with identity or having issues related to being othered? Do you worry about things you cannot control? Do you want to get from point A to point B? Do you just need someone to talk to in a safe space? This journey of life can be scary, confusing, and sometimes frustrating, are you ready to become the best version of yourself?
(717) 931-6856 View (717) 931-6856

Online Therapists

Photo of Alex Ochs, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Ochs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
Many of us, at some point in our lives, experience stress, struggle with interpersonal relationships, and question our self-worth. I have extensive experience and enjoy working with individuals who identify as LGBTQ+, experience chronic illness, as well as emerging adults struggling with life transitions through a relational psychodynamic orientation. I believe therapy can provide tremendous relief, increase joy and spontaneity, and allow you to know and experience a deeper sense of yourself. It can be difficult to start therapy. That is why I approach our work together from a place of compassion, genuineness, and authenticity.
Many of us, at some point in our lives, experience stress, struggle with interpersonal relationships, and question our self-worth. I have extensive experience and enjoy working with individuals who identify as LGBTQ+, experience chronic illness, as well as emerging adults struggling with life transitions through a relational psychodynamic orientation. I believe therapy can provide tremendous relief, increase joy and spontaneity, and allow you to know and experience a deeper sense of yourself. It can be difficult to start therapy. That is why I approach our work together from a place of compassion, genuineness, and authenticity.
(267) 609-9128 View (267) 609-9128
Photo of Jonathan Toman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonathan Toman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19123
My focus areas include anxiety, depression, LGBTQ, self-esteem, and relationships.
Hello, thanks for visiting my profile. I realize you may be going through a tough time. Perhaps you’re experiencing a significant transition, a loss, or feelings you’re not sure how to deal with. This can be scary and difficult. Sometimes the hardest part is acknowledging the need for help. I have hope for you. I believe we all have the internal resources to heal and grow, and I would like to help you uncover this healing power within yourself.
My focus areas include anxiety, depression, LGBTQ, self-esteem, and relationships.
Hello, thanks for visiting my profile. I realize you may be going through a tough time. Perhaps you’re experiencing a significant transition, a loss, or feelings you’re not sure how to deal with. This can be scary and difficult. Sometimes the hardest part is acknowledging the need for help. I have hope for you. I believe we all have the internal resources to heal and grow, and I would like to help you uncover this healing power within yourself.
(267) 551-5860 View (267) 551-5860
Photo of Lewis Johnson, MS, NCC, CTP, CET II, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lewis Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC, CTP, CET II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Darby, PA 19082  (Online Only)
At the Lotus Center for Wellness and Healing, the focus is on you… the human, the individual, the person sharing space with me. Historically, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and gender expansive (LGBTQIA+) folks have experienced oppression and marginalization that can make one feel isolated, misunderstood, and without choice. Racial and identity-based trauma can have lasting effects on a person without them knowing the significant impact.
At the Lotus Center for Wellness and Healing, the focus is on you… the human, the individual, the person sharing space with me. Historically, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and gender expansive (LGBTQIA+) folks have experienced oppression and marginalization that can make one feel isolated, misunderstood, and without choice. Racial and identity-based trauma can have lasting effects on a person without them knowing the significant impact.
(484) 265-9608 View (484) 265-9608
Photo of Sarah Hairston, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Hairston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elysburg, PA 17824  (Online Only)
As a trans-non-binary, queer and neurodivergent therapist, I bring lived experience into the therapy space and enjoy supporting folx who are or may be LGBTQIA2S+.
It takes a lot of strength and self-kindness to seek support and therapy–thank you for being here and for considering me as part of your process. I have worked with folks with a number of experiences andspecialize in trauma and trauma-related disorders. CPTSD, Religious abuse/trauma and grief are my primary areas of treatment. My aim is to help understand where folx are, as well as what their hopes and goals may be. We work together to find growth and change in the ways that works best for your life.
As a trans-non-binary, queer and neurodivergent therapist, I bring lived experience into the therapy space and enjoy supporting folx who are or may be LGBTQIA2S+.
It takes a lot of strength and self-kindness to seek support and therapy–thank you for being here and for considering me as part of your process. I have worked with folks with a number of experiences andspecialize in trauma and trauma-related disorders. CPTSD, Religious abuse/trauma and grief are my primary areas of treatment. My aim is to help understand where folx are, as well as what their hopes and goals may be. We work together to find growth and change in the ways that works best for your life.
(872) 259-7363 View (872) 259-7363
Photo of Samantha Palmisano, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Palmisano
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
Additionally, I am sex positive, kink and BDSM-affirming, queer and gender-affirming, as well as polyamory and consensual non monogamy-affirming.
As a counselor, I remain true to myself in the sense that I am direct, warm, honest, compassionate, and expressive with my reactions. I tend to be casual in my approach, so if something is funny, I will laugh with you, and if something is sad or distressing, I will share those feelings with you as well. While it is important to me that I remain as objective as possible, I firmly believe that the therapist themself serves as a tool that contributes to your therapeutic process. For that reason, I believe our connection must be fostered collaboratively and authentically.
Additionally, I am sex positive, kink and BDSM-affirming, queer and gender-affirming, as well as polyamory and consensual non monogamy-affirming.
As a counselor, I remain true to myself in the sense that I am direct, warm, honest, compassionate, and expressive with my reactions. I tend to be casual in my approach, so if something is funny, I will laugh with you, and if something is sad or distressing, I will share those feelings with you as well. While it is important to me that I remain as objective as possible, I firmly believe that the therapist themself serves as a tool that contributes to your therapeutic process. For that reason, I believe our connection must be fostered collaboratively and authentically.
(215) 515-4798 View (215) 515-4798
Photo of Cody Weaver, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cody Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Things I've treated most are depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA issues, trauma, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD.
Hello! My name is Cody (he/him) and I'm currently licensed as an LCSW/therapist in Pennsylvania. I received by Bachelors degree from Coastal Carolina University in 2010 and then my Masters degree from Winthrop University in 2012. I began practicing while I was in graduate school so I'm currently on my 13th year of practice. My clinical background includes outpatient therapy, in-home therapy, integrated behavioral health and primary care, inpatient treatment, and forensic psychology. Since I've run a large span of different practices I consider myself a jack-of-all trades when it comes to mental health and therapy.
Things I've treated most are depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA issues, trauma, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD.
Hello! My name is Cody (he/him) and I'm currently licensed as an LCSW/therapist in Pennsylvania. I received by Bachelors degree from Coastal Carolina University in 2010 and then my Masters degree from Winthrop University in 2012. I began practicing while I was in graduate school so I'm currently on my 13th year of practice. My clinical background includes outpatient therapy, in-home therapy, integrated behavioral health and primary care, inpatient treatment, and forensic psychology. Since I've run a large span of different practices I consider myself a jack-of-all trades when it comes to mental health and therapy.
(484) 699-0906 View (484) 699-0906
Photo of Matthew Whitehead, PsyD, Psychologist
Matthew Whitehead
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I have particular comfort and experience working with LGBTQ clients.
As a psychoanalyst, I believe most of our fundamental struggles relate to patterns in our relationships and societal pressures we can't easily see or understand. I collaborate with my clients to help them use their curiosity, talents, and strengths to resolve confusion and achieve understanding and relief. My style is non-judging and genuine so clients feel comfortable talking about parts of their lives that are stressful, frustrating, and even painful. In therapy, I help clients achieve a better sense of meaning in their lives and satisfaction in their relationships, so that anxiety, depression, shame and guilt ease away.
I have particular comfort and experience working with LGBTQ clients.
As a psychoanalyst, I believe most of our fundamental struggles relate to patterns in our relationships and societal pressures we can't easily see or understand. I collaborate with my clients to help them use their curiosity, talents, and strengths to resolve confusion and achieve understanding and relief. My style is non-judging and genuine so clients feel comfortable talking about parts of their lives that are stressful, frustrating, and even painful. In therapy, I help clients achieve a better sense of meaning in their lives and satisfaction in their relationships, so that anxiety, depression, shame and guilt ease away.
(484) 546-4359 View (484) 546-4359
Photo of Kayla Ann Stouffer, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kayla Ann Stouffer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with LGBT clients, adult ADHD, depression and anxiety, intergenerational patterns, couples and family work. Clients who come to me would be receiving support from a holistic perspective; our lives don't occur in a vacuum, so neither should our mental health. A client who came to me would be aiming both to address concerns in the present; whether those be relational or their own behavior or thoughts, as well as to help understand the patterns and history that impact how they see the world, so that they can identify where to make changes.
I specialize in working with LGBT clients, adult ADHD, depression and anxiety, intergenerational patterns, couples and family work. Clients who come to me would be receiving support from a holistic perspective; our lives don't occur in a vacuum, so neither should our mental health. A client who came to me would be aiming both to address concerns in the present; whether those be relational or their own behavior or thoughts, as well as to help understand the patterns and history that impact how they see the world, so that they can identify where to make changes.
(267) 848-9341 View (267) 848-9341
Photo of Erica Zervanos, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erica Zervanos
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119  (Online Only)
Let’s normalize beauty in disability and elicit self-love in adversity! I specialize in relationships, individual counseling, LGBT+, and coping with chronic illness. Self-reflection is a powerful tool for seeing the world through different eyes and uncovering grace toward yourself. I believe therapy can be life-changing. I strive for my couples to feel at peace and deeply connected while exploring sex and trauma. I will help you work through your darkest moments to promote empowerment.
Let’s normalize beauty in disability and elicit self-love in adversity! I specialize in relationships, individual counseling, LGBT+, and coping with chronic illness. Self-reflection is a powerful tool for seeing the world through different eyes and uncovering grace toward yourself. I believe therapy can be life-changing. I strive for my couples to feel at peace and deeply connected while exploring sex and trauma. I will help you work through your darkest moments to promote empowerment.
(267) 436-0933 View (267) 436-0933
Photo of Bea Mitchell-Rodriguez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bea Mitchell-Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with other mixed-race and Latine folks, culture workers like artists and poets, activists and movement builders, survivors of neglect, and queer folks.
I work with people to help them explore, understand, and heal from the ways life has left its imprints upon them— be that from trauma, oppression, or simply the complexity of our messy and beautiful interconnectedness with each other. My approach is creative, humorous and relational. It is rooted in values of anti-oppression, abolitionism, and harm reduction.
I enjoy working with other mixed-race and Latine folks, culture workers like artists and poets, activists and movement builders, survivors of neglect, and queer folks.
I work with people to help them explore, understand, and heal from the ways life has left its imprints upon them— be that from trauma, oppression, or simply the complexity of our messy and beautiful interconnectedness with each other. My approach is creative, humorous and relational. It is rooted in values of anti-oppression, abolitionism, and harm reduction.
(215) 584-4587 View (215) 584-4587
Photo of Morgan Karcher, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Morgan Karcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
As a queer therapist, I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals explore prominent themes of identity while processing experiences with discrimination, gender dysphoria, questioning, and interpersonal conflicts.
Hi, I'm Morgan! I'm a Philly-based trauma focused licensed professional counselor with Nourish Therapy & Wellness. My expertise comes from a psychodynamic, relational therapy approach, implementing tenants of Art Therapy, Feminist Theory, Internal Family Systems Model, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-F CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy . I have helped individuals, families, couples from adolescence into adulthood find healing and understanding in desperate situations. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, BPD, codependency, attachment issues, body image & self-esteem.
As a queer therapist, I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals explore prominent themes of identity while processing experiences with discrimination, gender dysphoria, questioning, and interpersonal conflicts.
Hi, I'm Morgan! I'm a Philly-based trauma focused licensed professional counselor with Nourish Therapy & Wellness. My expertise comes from a psychodynamic, relational therapy approach, implementing tenants of Art Therapy, Feminist Theory, Internal Family Systems Model, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-F CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy . I have helped individuals, families, couples from adolescence into adulthood find healing and understanding in desperate situations. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, BPD, codependency, attachment issues, body image & self-esteem.
(610) 822-2303 View (610) 822-2303
Photo of Em Johnston, MS, LPC Intern
Em Johnston
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003
As a queer, non-binary person, many are turned off by the word ‘religion’.
Whether you are 5 or 55, I believe you are a strong, beautiful, unique human. I know you have a purpose, goals, and dreams. I also know that life is hard; and your struggles, hardships, and battles can get in the way of achieving your dreams. They may be little struggles and difficulties, or maybe you feel like you are at war with yourself. Here is what I want you to know- you are not in this fight alone. It is my goal to help all of my clients build inner strength and start living their lives with passion and purpose. I am here to guide you through the battle, win the fight, and help you achieve your dreams.
As a queer, non-binary person, many are turned off by the word ‘religion’.
Whether you are 5 or 55, I believe you are a strong, beautiful, unique human. I know you have a purpose, goals, and dreams. I also know that life is hard; and your struggles, hardships, and battles can get in the way of achieving your dreams. They may be little struggles and difficulties, or maybe you feel like you are at war with yourself. Here is what I want you to know- you are not in this fight alone. It is my goal to help all of my clients build inner strength and start living their lives with passion and purpose. I am here to guide you through the battle, win the fight, and help you achieve your dreams.
(484) 616-5809 View (484) 616-5809
Photo of Scott Giacomucci - Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, DSW, LCSW, BCD, FAAETS, TEP
Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy
DSW, LCSW, BCD, FAAETS, TEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Media, PA 19063
We have therapists that specialize in work with people in recovery, the LGBTQ+ community, and adolescents.
While other programs claim to be 'trauma-informed', our practice revolves entirely around trauma therapy. This is what we do best. The Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy is named after the legendary figure of the phoenix that dies and is reborn from its own ashes – it is a symbol of transformation and resilience. The phenomenon of growing after experiencing trauma has been labeled “Post-Traumatic Growth”. This is exactly what we help our clients cultivate in their lives. While we cannot change the past, we can change how past experiences live within us Low-Cost Options Available with Our Graduate Interns
We have therapists that specialize in work with people in recovery, the LGBTQ+ community, and adolescents.
While other programs claim to be 'trauma-informed', our practice revolves entirely around trauma therapy. This is what we do best. The Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy is named after the legendary figure of the phoenix that dies and is reborn from its own ashes – it is a symbol of transformation and resilience. The phenomenon of growing after experiencing trauma has been labeled “Post-Traumatic Growth”. This is exactly what we help our clients cultivate in their lives. While we cannot change the past, we can change how past experiences live within us Low-Cost Options Available with Our Graduate Interns
(484) 653-5066 View (484) 653-5066
Photo of Howard J August, MA, JD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Howard J August
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, JD, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I have experience working with gay, lesbian, bi and heterosexual adults on issues related to sexuality, identity and relationships, as well as anxiety, PTSD and depression.
Maybe you've noticed yourself worrying more or mulling over regrets. Or something has happened that you need to talk though: it could be a breakup, a loss, a layoff, an illness, or something else. You want more than passive uh-huh’s, but not a new boss either. I will take a calm walk with you through your life. My hope is you will feel heard and accepted both for who you are right now and who you want to become.
I have experience working with gay, lesbian, bi and heterosexual adults on issues related to sexuality, identity and relationships, as well as anxiety, PTSD and depression.
Maybe you've noticed yourself worrying more or mulling over regrets. Or something has happened that you need to talk though: it could be a breakup, a loss, a layoff, an illness, or something else. You want more than passive uh-huh’s, but not a new boss either. I will take a calm walk with you through your life. My hope is you will feel heard and accepted both for who you are right now and who you want to become.
(215) 709-6574 View (215) 709-6574
Photo of Vincent Lamont, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vincent Lamont
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I have experience working with depression and anxiety disorders addiction disorders, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, co-occurring disorders (mental illness and addiction), career changes, dysfunctional family of origin issues, LGBT issues and concerns and adjustment disorders.
My name is Vincent Lamont and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (Pennsylvania). Entering therapy can be a difficult decision for most people. I am committed to gently guiding my clients toward a place of relief from emotional distress and an enhanced sense of well-being. I am here to provide a safe space, and to help you work through whatever issue or conflict is troubling you.
I have experience working with depression and anxiety disorders addiction disorders, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, co-occurring disorders (mental illness and addiction), career changes, dysfunctional family of origin issues, LGBT issues and concerns and adjustment disorders.
My name is Vincent Lamont and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (Pennsylvania). Entering therapy can be a difficult decision for most people. I am committed to gently guiding my clients toward a place of relief from emotional distress and an enhanced sense of well-being. I am here to provide a safe space, and to help you work through whatever issue or conflict is troubling you.
(267) 433-2706 View (267) 433-2706

See more therapy options for Shrewsbury

LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.