Transgender Therapists in Pennsylvania

Photo of Melissa Sziga Dessereau, LMFT, MA, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Sziga Dessereau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
They completed their Master of Science in Family Therapy/Sex Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University, Master of Arts in Child Development from Tufts University, and Affirming Approaches for Transgender Communities at Widener U.
Sziga is a perceptive and nuanced therapist with a refreshingly frank style. For over 25 years, they have been working with individuals, couples, and families to foster personal growth and satisfying relationships. They have a way of making clients feel comfortable, understood, and at ease — like no matter what you say they get it and don’t judge you. And they're funny.
They completed their Master of Science in Family Therapy/Sex Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University, Master of Arts in Child Development from Tufts University, and Affirming Approaches for Transgender Communities at Widener U.
Sziga is a perceptive and nuanced therapist with a refreshingly frank style. For over 25 years, they have been working with individuals, couples, and families to foster personal growth and satisfying relationships. They have a way of making clients feel comfortable, understood, and at ease — like no matter what you say they get it and don’t judge you. And they're funny.
(267) 705-6288 View (267) 705-6288
Photo of Austin Angiollilo, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Austin Angiollilo
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berwyn, PA 19312
I work with people from all walks of life and as a queer, transgender man myself I specialize in working with people within the LGBTQIA+ community.
I cannot imagine how many of these profiles you have looked at so far, finding the right fit can be challenging - thanks for taking the time to check out mine. I imagine that there is a lot that feels challenging for you right now and I know how much pressure you may be under to have it all figured out. I am here to help you manage your distress and help to give you an avenue toward building a life worth living. I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of expressions of distress including: depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, emotion dysregulation, and trauma-related stress.
I work with people from all walks of life and as a queer, transgender man myself I specialize in working with people within the LGBTQIA+ community.
I cannot imagine how many of these profiles you have looked at so far, finding the right fit can be challenging - thanks for taking the time to check out mine. I imagine that there is a lot that feels challenging for you right now and I know how much pressure you may be under to have it all figured out. I am here to help you manage your distress and help to give you an avenue toward building a life worth living. I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of expressions of distress including: depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, emotion dysregulation, and trauma-related stress.
(484) 289-5987 View (484) 289-5987
Photo of Hope Krashnak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hope Krashnak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, PA 18704
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with clinical focuses on working with trauma, anxiety disorders, gender exploration, identity issues, and sexuality/sexual orientation. I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and utilize peer consultation to improve my skillset to best support your needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with clinical focuses on working with trauma, anxiety disorders, gender exploration, identity issues, and sexuality/sexual orientation. I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and utilize peer consultation to improve my skillset to best support your needs.
(570) 209-9317 View (570) 209-9317
Photo of Julian R Malys-Gordon, PsyD, Psychologist
Julian R Malys-Gordon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a queer transgender man myself, I understand the intricacies of seeking mental health care as an LGBTQ+ individual.
My goal is to help those in the LGBTQ+ community navigate the social and personal challenges of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as co-occurring mental health symptoms that they may be experiencing. I provide a safe therapeutic environment to meet the unique needs of this community. I have experience working with those of varying gender identities, sexual orientations, as well as varying non-monogamous relationship orientations. I also have experience working with individuals preparing for or receiving gender affirming medical care.
As a queer transgender man myself, I understand the intricacies of seeking mental health care as an LGBTQ+ individual.
My goal is to help those in the LGBTQ+ community navigate the social and personal challenges of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as co-occurring mental health symptoms that they may be experiencing. I provide a safe therapeutic environment to meet the unique needs of this community. I have experience working with those of varying gender identities, sexual orientations, as well as varying non-monogamous relationship orientations. I also have experience working with individuals preparing for or receiving gender affirming medical care.
(267) 491-9371 View (267) 491-9371
Photo of Ariel McAnulty, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ariel McAnulty
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I specialize in transgender-affirming therapy, navigating LGBTQ+ relationships, coming out to family and friends, self-actualization, self-love, found family and community, and navigating today’s sociopolitical landscape.
You do not have to navigate life’s challenges alone. I offer therapy for individuals (14 and older) and couples seeking help with challenging relationships, improving self-esteem, living as your authentic self, learning to set boundaries, anxiety and depression, and learning to embrace change.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I specialize in transgender-affirming therapy, navigating LGBTQ+ relationships, coming out to family and friends, self-actualization, self-love, found family and community, and navigating today’s sociopolitical landscape.
You do not have to navigate life’s challenges alone. I offer therapy for individuals (14 and older) and couples seeking help with challenging relationships, improving self-esteem, living as your authentic self, learning to set boundaries, anxiety and depression, and learning to embrace change.
(215) 484-3613 View (215) 484-3613
Photo of Terrence S Lubin, MSS, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terrence S Lubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW
Verified Verified
As a queer transgender man, I know how it feels to be a person in process, claiming what is right and real for me, and having the courage to break free of others’ expectations.
Pain brings people to therapy. Whether grief, shame, or trauma, the past lives in the body and impacts your perspective and choices, often leading to isolation. Therapy brings you back into connection. Through EMDR and IFS approaches, I will support you in healing old wounds, building loving relationships with yourself and your loved ones, and transforming your pain into compassion and resilience. I believe therapy provides a safe space to unpack the internal and external pressures that determine how you show up in the world, and to explore what feels authentic to you. You will find you can live more joyfully in the present.
As a queer transgender man, I know how it feels to be a person in process, claiming what is right and real for me, and having the courage to break free of others’ expectations.
Pain brings people to therapy. Whether grief, shame, or trauma, the past lives in the body and impacts your perspective and choices, often leading to isolation. Therapy brings you back into connection. Through EMDR and IFS approaches, I will support you in healing old wounds, building loving relationships with yourself and your loved ones, and transforming your pain into compassion and resilience. I believe therapy provides a safe space to unpack the internal and external pressures that determine how you show up in the world, and to explore what feels authentic to you. You will find you can live more joyfully in the present.
(267) 452-1977 View (267) 452-1977
Photo of Levi Bentley, MFA, MA, Pre-LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Levi Bentley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFA, MA, Pre-LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
My name is Levi (they/them), I am a non-binary, transmasculine transgender therapist working from a trauma-informed, IFS lense. I believe that you make sense and that you are the expert on your own experience. I enjoy working with queer and trans clients navigating the effects of trauma in their current reality. Choosing therapy is a bold step. My goal as a therapist is to work with you to realize relational and personal goals by providing empathetic connection, structure and support. Together we will make a container for staying present with difficult emotions that can arise on the journey towards healing and self-realization.
My name is Levi (they/them), I am a non-binary, transmasculine transgender therapist working from a trauma-informed, IFS lense. I believe that you make sense and that you are the expert on your own experience. I enjoy working with queer and trans clients navigating the effects of trauma in their current reality. Choosing therapy is a bold step. My goal as a therapist is to work with you to realize relational and personal goals by providing empathetic connection, structure and support. Together we will make a container for staying present with difficult emotions that can arise on the journey towards healing and self-realization.
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Photo of Remy Garland, Pre-Licensed Professional
Remy Garland
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Waitlist for new clients
My passion lies in providing inclusive, comprehensive, and accessible care. I believe that healing work is social justice work. My practice has a strong focus on LGBTQIA folks, social justice oriented community members, misfits, outsiders, neurodivergent and alternative relationship styles (including poly and kink aligned). I love to work with my non-binary and transgender communities to thrive and navigate all of life’s transitions. I support clients living with chronic pain and illness (currently respecting the energy you are using right now to look for a therapist!).
My passion lies in providing inclusive, comprehensive, and accessible care. I believe that healing work is social justice work. My practice has a strong focus on LGBTQIA folks, social justice oriented community members, misfits, outsiders, neurodivergent and alternative relationship styles (including poly and kink aligned). I love to work with my non-binary and transgender communities to thrive and navigate all of life’s transitions. I support clients living with chronic pain and illness (currently respecting the energy you are using right now to look for a therapist!).
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Photo of Debra Flint - Quiet Retreat Therapy, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Quiet Retreat Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
We have experience working with the LGBTQ community are well versed in the WPATH guidelines for Transgender care.
My goal in providing therapy is to promote a judgement free, non-anxious presence so that you can explore and grow in ways that feel right to you. By using a mix of traditional and trauma-informed therapy styles, we will work together towards healing and authenticity. Whether you struggle with abuse, discrimination, anxiety, depression, need to hone your coping skills or discover your future path, we are here for you. Discover a safe, confidential, and friendly place to explore issues that are close to your heart. You are cared for and loved.
We have experience working with the LGBTQ community are well versed in the WPATH guidelines for Transgender care.
My goal in providing therapy is to promote a judgement free, non-anxious presence so that you can explore and grow in ways that feel right to you. By using a mix of traditional and trauma-informed therapy styles, we will work together towards healing and authenticity. Whether you struggle with abuse, discrimination, anxiety, depression, need to hone your coping skills or discover your future path, we are here for you. Discover a safe, confidential, and friendly place to explore issues that are close to your heart. You are cared for and loved.
(724) 573-8992 View (724) 573-8992
Photo of Dr. Jacob Glickman, PsyD, MA, LPC, Psychologist
Dr. Jacob Glickman
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Jacob serves as the clinical director for Therapy Center of Philadelphia (TCP), where he and his supervisees specialize in providing mental healthcare for people who identify as transgender/non-binary/gender expansive, as well as the larger LGBTQIA+ communities and their families. Additionally, he and TCP maintain an anti-racist, sex positive, kink positive, and poly-aware practice. In collaboration with individuals, families, and people in relationships, Jacob's and his supervisees' identities inform their work as feminist therapists.
Jacob serves as the clinical director for Therapy Center of Philadelphia (TCP), where he and his supervisees specialize in providing mental healthcare for people who identify as transgender/non-binary/gender expansive, as well as the larger LGBTQIA+ communities and their families. Additionally, he and TCP maintain an anti-racist, sex positive, kink positive, and poly-aware practice. In collaboration with individuals, families, and people in relationships, Jacob's and his supervisees' identities inform their work as feminist therapists.
(267) 490-4762 x1 View (267) 490-4762 x1
Photo of Sara Edwards, MEd, LPC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Hello! I'm looking forward to meeting you. I am a therapist specializing in working with sexuality topics. Maybe you are looking for a therapist for a sexuality concern, sex therapy, sexual pain, trauma, or for transgender-affirming care. Maybe you just want to see someone who "gets it" and will be affirming of everything that makes you uniquely you. Whatever the reason, I am excited to accompany you on this wellness journey you're taking! I bring great enthusiasm to my therapy and I am looking forward to helping you achieve your life's passions. My practice has immediate openings, & we can get started soon without the wait.
Hello! I'm looking forward to meeting you. I am a therapist specializing in working with sexuality topics. Maybe you are looking for a therapist for a sexuality concern, sex therapy, sexual pain, trauma, or for transgender-affirming care. Maybe you just want to see someone who "gets it" and will be affirming of everything that makes you uniquely you. Whatever the reason, I am excited to accompany you on this wellness journey you're taking! I bring great enthusiasm to my therapy and I am looking forward to helping you achieve your life's passions. My practice has immediate openings, & we can get started soon without the wait.
(215) 688-5866 View (215) 688-5866
Photo of John C. Capozuca, PhD, Psychologist
John C. Capozuca
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
Capozuca, his practice policies, as well as helpful links, please visit his website at Transgender-Therapy.
Dr. John C. Capozuca is a licensed psychologist in New York and Pennsylvania with 30 years of experience treating Trans individuals and their families. A WPATH Certified Mentor and GEI Faculty Member, and recent USPATH Board Member, Dr. Capozuca has successfully facilitated the medical, legal and social transitions of hundreds of transsexual and transgender people and is widely regarded as an insightful and compassionate clinician by his patients and colleagues. He is also supervising psychologist for the Gender Identity Project at the LGBT Community Center and consulting psychologist to the the Callen/Lorde Community Health Center.
Capozuca, his practice policies, as well as helpful links, please visit his website at Transgender-Therapy.
Dr. John C. Capozuca is a licensed psychologist in New York and Pennsylvania with 30 years of experience treating Trans individuals and their families. A WPATH Certified Mentor and GEI Faculty Member, and recent USPATH Board Member, Dr. Capozuca has successfully facilitated the medical, legal and social transitions of hundreds of transsexual and transgender people and is widely regarded as an insightful and compassionate clinician by his patients and colleagues. He is also supervising psychologist for the Gender Identity Project at the LGBT Community Center and consulting psychologist to the the Callen/Lorde Community Health Center.
(646) 512-8995 View (646) 512-8995
Photo of Nina Panzer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nina Panzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035
I primarily work with women professionals and students struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, eating disorders, as well as working with caregivers of transgender youth and adults.
Seeking therapy is often a challenging first step toward addressing issues that cause distress. Gaining deeper insight into conflictual relationships, anxiety, balancing motherhood with life stresses, depression, or the unique demands of caregiving for transgender youth and adults can improve both work and personal life. Therapy is a collaborative process and my goal is to help you develop awareness of what is bothersome to you and enhancing your overall well-being. I offer a comfortable space in my Gladwyne office to explore your concerns.
I primarily work with women professionals and students struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, eating disorders, as well as working with caregivers of transgender youth and adults.
Seeking therapy is often a challenging first step toward addressing issues that cause distress. Gaining deeper insight into conflictual relationships, anxiety, balancing motherhood with life stresses, depression, or the unique demands of caregiving for transgender youth and adults can improve both work and personal life. Therapy is a collaborative process and my goal is to help you develop awareness of what is bothersome to you and enhancing your overall well-being. I offer a comfortable space in my Gladwyne office to explore your concerns.
(610) 547-8416 View (610) 547-8416
Photo of Patricia Gherovici, PhD, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Patricia Gherovici
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Current Research: How transgender issues are reorienting psychoanalytic practice while making us redefine notions of sexuality.
In my practice (in Philadelphia and New York) I offer a welcoming setting and provide a safe space for your pain or difficulties. When you speak about yourself to someone who is trained to listen and examine the circumstances that motivated your consultation, a change occurs. A psychoanalyst is a person trained to hear what is happening under the surface, and provides a place where you may speak and hear yourself differently. I have been working as a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist for 30+ years and I have found that words can hurt, words can make people sick, but words can also save. Talking cures.
Current Research: How transgender issues are reorienting psychoanalytic practice while making us redefine notions of sexuality.
In my practice (in Philadelphia and New York) I offer a welcoming setting and provide a safe space for your pain or difficulties. When you speak about yourself to someone who is trained to listen and examine the circumstances that motivated your consultation, a change occurs. A psychoanalyst is a person trained to hear what is happening under the surface, and provides a place where you may speak and hear yourself differently. I have been working as a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist for 30+ years and I have found that words can hurt, words can make people sick, but words can also save. Talking cures.
(215) 642-8654 View (215) 642-8654
Photo of Jessica R. Tighe, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica R. Tighe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pottsville, PA 17901
I have worked with a diversity of populations during my 18 year career both in community with children and families and in an out patient setting with children and adults to the elderly. My experience lies with behavioral issues with children and family dynamics. Additionally, I have a specialization in substance abuse with a belief in harm reduction leading to abstinence. I have worked with many people of the LGBTQ community and specifically with the transgender population. In working with the LGBTQ community, I also have become versed in people living alternative lifestyles.
I have worked with a diversity of populations during my 18 year career both in community with children and families and in an out patient setting with children and adults to the elderly. My experience lies with behavioral issues with children and family dynamics. Additionally, I have a specialization in substance abuse with a belief in harm reduction leading to abstinence. I have worked with many people of the LGBTQ community and specifically with the transgender population. In working with the LGBTQ community, I also have become versed in people living alternative lifestyles.
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Photo of Nick Matalik, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nick Matalik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Indiana, PA 15701
Waitlist for new clients
I am also passionate about the LGB+ community and have extensive knowledge working with transgender individuals.
Do you find yourself struggling with your identity or questioning “who am I, what do I want, how do I get there?” Are you in a relationship where things went stale and you’re looking to find what was lost? What if being aware of yourself and your relationships helped to ease some of those thoughts and led you towards a better understanding? My approach is simple. I love to be surrounded by a mellow atmosphere where hard work is done with warmth and encouragement. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where diversity is honored, bravery is respected, and discovering your true-self is encouraged.
I am also passionate about the LGB+ community and have extensive knowledge working with transgender individuals.
Do you find yourself struggling with your identity or questioning “who am I, what do I want, how do I get there?” Are you in a relationship where things went stale and you’re looking to find what was lost? What if being aware of yourself and your relationships helped to ease some of those thoughts and led you towards a better understanding? My approach is simple. I love to be surrounded by a mellow atmosphere where hard work is done with warmth and encouragement. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where diversity is honored, bravery is respected, and discovering your true-self is encouraged.
(724) 200-8523 View (724) 200-8523
Photo of Kathleen McGrath, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen McGrath
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
When my oldest kiddo was in high school, they came out to me as being transgender.
My ideal client is looking to become authentically themself. They would be motivated to change and curious about what has brought them to where they are. They want to process their trauma so that it is no longer upsetting but is simply part of their story. I don't want to specify too much here, as I don't want anyone to feel excluded. If you are curious and want help, I am here for you!
When my oldest kiddo was in high school, they came out to me as being transgender.
My ideal client is looking to become authentically themself. They would be motivated to change and curious about what has brought them to where they are. They want to process their trauma so that it is no longer upsetting but is simply part of their story. I don't want to specify too much here, as I don't want anyone to feel excluded. If you are curious and want help, I am here for you!
(412) 284-5008 View (412) 284-5008
Photo of Jay Hess, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jay Hess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Camp Hill, PA 17011
My letters follow the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care 8 recommendations.
It’s a lot to navigate this world as an LGBTQ+ and/or neurodivergent person, especially when you’re looking for a therapist who is both queer-affirming and understands the unique challenges of neurodiversity. Whether you’re struggling with relationships, feeling exhausted by today’s political climate, or finding it difficult to set boundaries, you’re not alone. You may be wrestling with your identity or simply feel like you don’t fit in, no matter how hard you try. The pressure of the outside world can feel overwhelming. You deserve compassion. You deserve to live authentically, and to have the support you need on that journey.
My letters follow the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care 8 recommendations.
It’s a lot to navigate this world as an LGBTQ+ and/or neurodivergent person, especially when you’re looking for a therapist who is both queer-affirming and understands the unique challenges of neurodiversity. Whether you’re struggling with relationships, feeling exhausted by today’s political climate, or finding it difficult to set boundaries, you’re not alone. You may be wrestling with your identity or simply feel like you don’t fit in, no matter how hard you try. The pressure of the outside world can feel overwhelming. You deserve compassion. You deserve to live authentically, and to have the support you need on that journey.
(717) 516-1761 View (717) 516-1761
Bucks LGBTQ Center
Psychologist, LPC, MPH, CAADC, CEDS, CCTp
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
Located in Newtown & Buckingham PA, Bucks LGBTQ Center is an affirming, safe space for members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families. We provide Masters and Doctoral level therapeutic support, professional educational trainings, and community events. Many of our providers have lived experience in the queer community in addition to extensive clinical training. Our providers specialize in working with transgender and gender expansive clients. We follow WPATH standards of care.
Located in Newtown & Buckingham PA, Bucks LGBTQ Center is an affirming, safe space for members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families. We provide Masters and Doctoral level therapeutic support, professional educational trainings, and community events. Many of our providers have lived experience in the queer community in addition to extensive clinical training. Our providers specialize in working with transgender and gender expansive clients. We follow WPATH standards of care.
(267) 281-1925 View (267) 281-1925
Photo of Sabrina J Heller, LCSW, ICGC-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabrina J Heller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ICGC-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My practice LGBTQA+ affirming and I have extensive training and consultation in providing services for those struggling with gender dysphoria or gender issues.
The choice to start therapy can be a difficult one. Sometimes life’s greatest challenges also present opportunities for transformation. My desire is to provide a safe and comfortable space where that can occur. Psychotherapy can be a wonderful process to take much needed time for yourself. The world throws a lot at us. I believe therapy needs to be a conversation-tailored to each persons individual needs. Collaboration is key and my goal is to help my clients learn skills and strategies to increase coping and find peace. I also believe that change is possible for every person. My pronouns are she/her.
My practice LGBTQA+ affirming and I have extensive training and consultation in providing services for those struggling with gender dysphoria or gender issues.
The choice to start therapy can be a difficult one. Sometimes life’s greatest challenges also present opportunities for transformation. My desire is to provide a safe and comfortable space where that can occur. Psychotherapy can be a wonderful process to take much needed time for yourself. The world throws a lot at us. I believe therapy needs to be a conversation-tailored to each persons individual needs. Collaboration is key and my goal is to help my clients learn skills and strategies to increase coping and find peace. I also believe that change is possible for every person. My pronouns are she/her.
(412) 265-1486 View (412) 265-1486
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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.