Transgender Therapists in 14606

Photo of Michele Tofany, Marriage & Family Therapist in 14606, NY
Michele Tofany
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14606
When working with clients, I use an eclectic approach, which means that I am schooled in many theoretical orientations and have mastered an infinite number of skills. I draw from the knowledge I possess to adapt my approach to the person or people in front of me. I believe that the most important part of the therapeutic process is the relationship between the therapist and the client/clients. Building rapport and establishing a relationship based on acceptance, empathy, honesty, safety and trust with my clients is my first priority as the therapist. One of my innate skills is being non-judgmental.
When working with clients, I use an eclectic approach, which means that I am schooled in many theoretical orientations and have mastered an infinite number of skills. I draw from the knowledge I possess to adapt my approach to the person or people in front of me. I believe that the most important part of the therapeutic process is the relationship between the therapist and the client/clients. Building rapport and establishing a relationship based on acceptance, empathy, honesty, safety and trust with my clients is my first priority as the therapist. One of my innate skills is being non-judgmental.
(585) 299-5616 View (585) 299-5616
Photo of Michelle Stone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 14606, NY
Michelle Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14606
I am a Licenced Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for 20 years. I recieved my Masters Degree in Social Work with a concentration in Family Mental Health from Syracuse University. I also recieved a Master's Certificate in Women's Studies and completed research on the development of adolescent girls. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families and will coordinate with any people that you would like to be a part of your wellness team. I am person centered meaning I will focus on you and what works best for you.
I am a Licenced Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for 20 years. I recieved my Masters Degree in Social Work with a concentration in Family Mental Health from Syracuse University. I also recieved a Master's Certificate in Women's Studies and completed research on the development of adolescent girls. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families and will coordinate with any people that you would like to be a part of your wellness team. I am person centered meaning I will focus on you and what works best for you.
(585) 454-8102 View (585) 454-8102
Photo of Vickie McVay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 14606, NY
Vickie McVay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14606  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Social Worker and have been working with clients ages 14 and up for the last fourteen years. I started as a Domestic Violence Advocate in 2008 and received both my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Master Degree in Social Work from Roberts Wesleyan College. I interned as a Social Worker at Strong Memorial Partial Hospitalization for Teens and at Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse. I work with individuals, couples, as well as families who have a history of domestic violence, trauma, depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, and those who have experienced bullying.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Social Worker and have been working with clients ages 14 and up for the last fourteen years. I started as a Domestic Violence Advocate in 2008 and received both my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Master Degree in Social Work from Roberts Wesleyan College. I interned as a Social Worker at Strong Memorial Partial Hospitalization for Teens and at Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse. I work with individuals, couples, as well as families who have a history of domestic violence, trauma, depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, and those who have experienced bullying.
(585) 449-4120 View (585) 449-4120
Photo of Carly St. John, Counselor in 14606, NY
Carly St. John
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14606
Not accepting new clients
Who am I? What is important to me? What do I believe in? What do I want out of life? I know firsthand what it is like to face these questions, especially when rebuilding after disappointment, trauma, and loss. In my own experience and in my experience working with clients, I have found that the most difficult times of our lives can be the catalyst to our greatest growth, and eventually, a sense of peace we had not thought possible.
Who am I? What is important to me? What do I believe in? What do I want out of life? I know firsthand what it is like to face these questions, especially when rebuilding after disappointment, trauma, and loss. In my own experience and in my experience working with clients, I have found that the most difficult times of our lives can be the catalyst to our greatest growth, and eventually, a sense of peace we had not thought possible.
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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.