Transgender Therapists in 22030

Photo of Nicole Joseph, Psychologist in 22030, VA
Nicole Joseph
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
With my experience, I have become a specialist in several different areas: Anxiety; Parent Guidance; Life Transitions; Difficulty with Medical Diagnoses; Gender Dysphoria/Questioning, LGBTQ, and Eating Disorders.
What do YOU need? This is the deceptively simple question which I ask my clients almost every session. What would change if you asked yourself that simple question more often? This is an example of some of the foundational work which I'll infuse into our sessions. I LOVE what I do and am so honored to be a part of your life! My goal as your therapist is to encourage, support, empower, and listen. I view therapy as a true partnership where you're not alone while you navigate the 'messy middle' of life in these uncertain times. I work solely virtually after getting positive feedback from busy clients who appreciate this convenience.
With my experience, I have become a specialist in several different areas: Anxiety; Parent Guidance; Life Transitions; Difficulty with Medical Diagnoses; Gender Dysphoria/Questioning, LGBTQ, and Eating Disorders.
What do YOU need? This is the deceptively simple question which I ask my clients almost every session. What would change if you asked yourself that simple question more often? This is an example of some of the foundational work which I'll infuse into our sessions. I LOVE what I do and am so honored to be a part of your life! My goal as your therapist is to encourage, support, empower, and listen. I view therapy as a true partnership where you're not alone while you navigate the 'messy middle' of life in these uncertain times. I work solely virtually after getting positive feedback from busy clients who appreciate this convenience.
(703) 468-8052 View (703) 468-8052
Photo of Laila Cooper, Psychologist in 22030, VA
Laila Cooper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
My work is focused on sex and gender issues (including transgender issues), sexual orientation, kink/BDSM, and interpersonal relationships (including couples, polyamory, family dyads).
Congratulations on making it this far; searching for a therapist can be an overwhelming process! Many individuals struggle with depression, anxiety, struggles with sex and relationships, or simply the desire to understand themselves more thoroughly. Whether to improve mood and functioning, improve relationships, or work on issues with sex/sexuality, therapy can be reparative, strengthening, and play a role in maximizing enjoyment of life! I work from an affirming and social justice approach with the LGBTQIA community and people of color, and I am kink- and non-monogamy informed and affirming.
My work is focused on sex and gender issues (including transgender issues), sexual orientation, kink/BDSM, and interpersonal relationships (including couples, polyamory, family dyads).
Congratulations on making it this far; searching for a therapist can be an overwhelming process! Many individuals struggle with depression, anxiety, struggles with sex and relationships, or simply the desire to understand themselves more thoroughly. Whether to improve mood and functioning, improve relationships, or work on issues with sex/sexuality, therapy can be reparative, strengthening, and play a role in maximizing enjoyment of life! I work from an affirming and social justice approach with the LGBTQIA community and people of color, and I am kink- and non-monogamy informed and affirming.
(703) 291-1498 View (703) 291-1498
Photo of Tara L Reynolds, Psychologist in 22030, VA
Tara L Reynolds
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am also certified as a Transgender Care Therapist (TCT) through the International Transgender Certification Association, providing therapy, assessment, and letters of readiness for transgender, gender non-conforming and non-binary.
Do you find yourself feeling sad or anxious for no particular reason? Do you sometimes wish you had help managing life and all of its challenges? I can help you by providing a compassionate, safe, and non-judgemental place to express your deepest thoughts and feelings and explore options to resolve the problems you are facing.
I am also certified as a Transgender Care Therapist (TCT) through the International Transgender Certification Association, providing therapy, assessment, and letters of readiness for transgender, gender non-conforming and non-binary.
Do you find yourself feeling sad or anxious for no particular reason? Do you sometimes wish you had help managing life and all of its challenges? I can help you by providing a compassionate, safe, and non-judgemental place to express your deepest thoughts and feelings and explore options to resolve the problems you are facing.
(703) 810-7706 View (703) 810-7706
Photo of Alison C Smith, Psychologist in 22030, VA
Alison C Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist whose services include psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and consultation. I work to help clients with a wide range of difficulties including depression, anxiety, bereavement, relationship problems, and coping with trauma, as well as with transgender and/or sexual orientation issues. I particularly specialize in helping gay and lesbian individuals coping with childhood sexual abuse. I do individual therapy, providing practical ways to approach life's most difficult challenges. I work with clients in a collaborative relationship, with both of us working together to help you understand yourself and your problems more clearly.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist whose services include psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and consultation. I work to help clients with a wide range of difficulties including depression, anxiety, bereavement, relationship problems, and coping with trauma, as well as with transgender and/or sexual orientation issues. I particularly specialize in helping gay and lesbian individuals coping with childhood sexual abuse. I do individual therapy, providing practical ways to approach life's most difficult challenges. I work with clients in a collaborative relationship, with both of us working together to help you understand yourself and your problems more clearly.
(703) 407-9181 View (703) 407-9181
Photo of Sally Harney, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22030, VA
Sally Harney
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am a certified World Professional Association of Transgender Health-SOC8 member utilizing evidence & science-based guidelines to support gender exploration and transition.
Are you a teen (12+) or an adult struggling with the following: anxiety, depression, social anxiety, understanding social cues, self-esteem, self-assertiveness, trauma, transgender transition, gender questioning/dysphoria and/or general life stressors and transitions? These are the issues that I work on the most with my clients. Everyone has a different mix of issues or person struggles. I tailor your psychotherapy sessions to support your needs. Together, we can work through the "muck," identify unhealthy coping strategies, and get you on the road to mental wellness.
I am a certified World Professional Association of Transgender Health-SOC8 member utilizing evidence & science-based guidelines to support gender exploration and transition.
Are you a teen (12+) or an adult struggling with the following: anxiety, depression, social anxiety, understanding social cues, self-esteem, self-assertiveness, trauma, transgender transition, gender questioning/dysphoria and/or general life stressors and transitions? These are the issues that I work on the most with my clients. Everyone has a different mix of issues or person struggles. I tailor your psychotherapy sessions to support your needs. Together, we can work through the "muck," identify unhealthy coping strategies, and get you on the road to mental wellness.
(571) 459-1080 View (571) 459-1080
Photo of Tanya K Hull, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22030, VA
Tanya K Hull
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I have the most experience working with teens regarding anxiety, depression, ADHD, sexuality, relationships, family conflict, and recently supporting transgender issues.
I am a clinical supervisor for LPC residents, and supervisor for play therapy certification to become an RPT. A strong focus in family systems and internal family systems. I actively include parents and families in the treatment process. Also, a specialty with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I pull from treatment protocols that include CBT, Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR. I have a background in substance abuse counseling and value meeting a client where they are in strengths and struggles. I value a safe therapeutic environment and strong therapeutic relationship for success in therapy.
I have the most experience working with teens regarding anxiety, depression, ADHD, sexuality, relationships, family conflict, and recently supporting transgender issues.
I am a clinical supervisor for LPC residents, and supervisor for play therapy certification to become an RPT. A strong focus in family systems and internal family systems. I actively include parents and families in the treatment process. Also, a specialty with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I pull from treatment protocols that include CBT, Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR. I have a background in substance abuse counseling and value meeting a client where they are in strengths and struggles. I value a safe therapeutic environment and strong therapeutic relationship for success in therapy.
(571) 749-2948 View (571) 749-2948
Photo of Across Counseling: Psychotherapy Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22030, VA
Across Counseling: Psychotherapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Diane Bowers, adults,English/Spanish, substance use & recovery, domestic violence survivors, anger management, LGBTQ, transgender womens group Nellis Crigler, adults - English/Spanish, grief, trauma, cancer & chronic illness, aging & caregiving.
Do you feel anxious, stressed, confused, sad, worried or irritable, or just are not feeling your best. Are you having problems in a relationship or with parenting? We help people find solutions to troubling problems. Give me a call and we can talk about how we might help you to feel good and enjoy life again and answer your questions. Our therapists offer many different specialties and we tailor our approach to each client's individual needs. I am Anne Ross, clinical director and I will help find the best fit for you . I can be reached at Director@AcrossCounseling.com or 703-389-1913
Diane Bowers, adults,English/Spanish, substance use & recovery, domestic violence survivors, anger management, LGBTQ, transgender womens group Nellis Crigler, adults - English/Spanish, grief, trauma, cancer & chronic illness, aging & caregiving.
Do you feel anxious, stressed, confused, sad, worried or irritable, or just are not feeling your best. Are you having problems in a relationship or with parenting? We help people find solutions to troubling problems. Give me a call and we can talk about how we might help you to feel good and enjoy life again and answer your questions. Our therapists offer many different specialties and we tailor our approach to each client's individual needs. I am Anne Ross, clinical director and I will help find the best fit for you . I can be reached at Director@AcrossCounseling.com or 703-389-1913
(703) 594-4094 View (703) 594-4094
Photo of Vaughn Omps, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in 22030, VA
Vaughn Omps
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Have you been struggling with your identity? Have you suffered from traumatic experiences in your life? You're not alone, and you don't have to suffer in silence. Seeking therapy can feel daunting, but I'm glad you're here! During sessions, I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), a valuable tool to assist with re-processing experiences that negatively affect one's sense of self by tapping into the brain's natural tendency to move towards healing and adaptive processes.
Have you been struggling with your identity? Have you suffered from traumatic experiences in your life? You're not alone, and you don't have to suffer in silence. Seeking therapy can feel daunting, but I'm glad you're here! During sessions, I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), a valuable tool to assist with re-processing experiences that negatively affect one's sense of self by tapping into the brain's natural tendency to move towards healing and adaptive processes.
(571) 771-1289 View (571) 771-1289
Photo of Jennifer Rulli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22030, VA
Jennifer Rulli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Our early family of origin experiences lay the foundation for internal and relational patterns that continue to play out in later life. Many of our patterns include our best and most creative efforts to adapt to the tough stuff of life such as trauma, misattunement, and loss. Though these patterns are not set in stone, they are often automatic and hard to recognize, change, or understand. Together we can explore the ways in which our adaptations may have served you well in earlier times but are no longer proving to be helpful, effective, or authentic. I work with clients to create connection, healing, safety, and satisfaction.
Our early family of origin experiences lay the foundation for internal and relational patterns that continue to play out in later life. Many of our patterns include our best and most creative efforts to adapt to the tough stuff of life such as trauma, misattunement, and loss. Though these patterns are not set in stone, they are often automatic and hard to recognize, change, or understand. Together we can explore the ways in which our adaptations may have served you well in earlier times but are no longer proving to be helpful, effective, or authentic. I work with clients to create connection, healing, safety, and satisfaction.
(571) 470-7292 View (571) 470-7292
Photo of Transgender Dysphoria Diagnosis - WPATH Letters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22030, VA
Transgender Dysphoria Diagnosis - WPATH Letters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Your transition ally is waiting at Queer Talk Therapy. Specializing in gender identity, they offer thorough assessments and readiness letters, rooted in an informed consent model, simplifying your path to medical transition. Your $175 investment goes beyond an assessment—it's a comprehensive, WPATH-compliant roadmap, inclusive of letter updates and ongoing support. More than an assessment, it’s an invaluable bridge to your next chapter. Simply visit our WEBSITE to schedule and get started today.
Your transition ally is waiting at Queer Talk Therapy. Specializing in gender identity, they offer thorough assessments and readiness letters, rooted in an informed consent model, simplifying your path to medical transition. Your $175 investment goes beyond an assessment—it's a comprehensive, WPATH-compliant roadmap, inclusive of letter updates and ongoing support. More than an assessment, it’s an invaluable bridge to your next chapter. Simply visit our WEBSITE to schedule and get started today.
Photo of Anne Edwards, Psychologist in 22030, VA
Anne Edwards
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I realize that sharing the most intimate details of your life with a stranger can feel really vulnerable. I work to create a space in which you feel safe, accepted, connected, and supported in sharing your struggles. Having such an environment can help you gain insight about yourself, patterns of interacting with others, and how to bring about change. I am approved to practice virtually, throughout most of the US. This option makes it easy for you to get help almost anywhere and allows for continuity in your care if you move, travel for work, or are on an extended trip.
I realize that sharing the most intimate details of your life with a stranger can feel really vulnerable. I work to create a space in which you feel safe, accepted, connected, and supported in sharing your struggles. Having such an environment can help you gain insight about yourself, patterns of interacting with others, and how to bring about change. I am approved to practice virtually, throughout most of the US. This option makes it easy for you to get help almost anywhere and allows for continuity in your care if you move, travel for work, or are on an extended trip.
(703) 349-4579 View (703) 349-4579
Photo of Jenna Cataldi, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22030, VA
Jenna Cataldi
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy can be scary. It takes a lot of courage to seek support. As a therapist, I believe art making provides another language to communicate and process life experiences that are difficult to verbalize. Mark making represents evidence of our existence, and having a witness to your story is a powerful first step.
Therapy can be scary. It takes a lot of courage to seek support. As a therapist, I believe art making provides another language to communicate and process life experiences that are difficult to verbalize. Mark making represents evidence of our existence, and having a witness to your story is a powerful first step.
(703) 705-2565 View (703) 705-2565
Photo of Bernard Mungin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22030, VA
Bernard Mungin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISCW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist who works with a diverse population of people. My goal is to collaborate with individuals to assist them in achieving their therapy goal(S). I am licensed in DC (LICSW), VA (LCSW), MD (LCSW-C), and PA (LCSW). I have BS in Human Ecology, BA in Humanities from The Ohio State University, MSW from San Jose State University and Post Masters fellowship in mental health from Stanford University.
I am a psychotherapist who works with a diverse population of people. My goal is to collaborate with individuals to assist them in achieving their therapy goal(S). I am licensed in DC (LICSW), VA (LCSW), MD (LCSW-C), and PA (LCSW). I have BS in Human Ecology, BA in Humanities from The Ohio State University, MSW from San Jose State University and Post Masters fellowship in mental health from Stanford University.
(571) 556-3353 View (571) 556-3353
Photo of Meredith Kerley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22030, VA
Meredith Kerley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Meredith Kerley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of both adolescents and adults in individual and group therapy. As a therapist, Meredith builds upon each individual's strengths and uniqueness. She works collaboratively with clients to discuss their concerns and assist them in gaining greater insight and clarity of mind. Meredith provides a confidential, warm, and safe environment in which clients can explore past and current issues, weigh their options, and change longstanding counterproductive behaviors. She believes that it is through this work that clients are able to live more authentic lives and experience more fulfilling relationships.
Meredith Kerley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of both adolescents and adults in individual and group therapy. As a therapist, Meredith builds upon each individual's strengths and uniqueness. She works collaboratively with clients to discuss their concerns and assist them in gaining greater insight and clarity of mind. Meredith provides a confidential, warm, and safe environment in which clients can explore past and current issues, weigh their options, and change longstanding counterproductive behaviors. She believes that it is through this work that clients are able to live more authentic lives and experience more fulfilling relationships.
(703) 591-5912 x5 View (703) 591-5912 x5
Photo of Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness, Psychologist in 22030, VA
Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness (FMHW) provides integrated mental health services to the greater Virginia/Maryland/DC area. We treat a wide range of conditions including but limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, OCD, Adjustment Disorders, Mood Disorders and more. We treat patients ranging in age from 5 to 60. Our practice was founded in 2013 by Dr. Jennifer Shore and now employs over 40 clinical staff including psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, counselors, social workers and doctoral interns.
Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness (FMHW) provides integrated mental health services to the greater Virginia/Maryland/DC area. We treat a wide range of conditions including but limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, OCD, Adjustment Disorders, Mood Disorders and more. We treat patients ranging in age from 5 to 60. Our practice was founded in 2013 by Dr. Jennifer Shore and now employs over 40 clinical staff including psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, counselors, social workers and doctoral interns.
(571) 556-8535 View (571) 556-8535
Photo of Jackie Sargent, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22030, VA
Jackie Sargent
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC, LCPAT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
The journey towards healing is a path marked by resilience and courage. It is one of self-discovery, growth, and transformation—a voyage of understanding and mending wounds, both seen and unseen. My name is Jackie, and I am here, ready and willing to walk beside you on this meaningful journey towards healing. I am a trauma-informed board certified art therapist and licensed professional counselor with over 13 years of clinical and supervisory experience. I integrate art therapy, sand tray therapy, and IFS into my practice. As such, I am dedicated to a therapeutic intervention that is rooted in nurturance and creative expression.
The journey towards healing is a path marked by resilience and courage. It is one of self-discovery, growth, and transformation—a voyage of understanding and mending wounds, both seen and unseen. My name is Jackie, and I am here, ready and willing to walk beside you on this meaningful journey towards healing. I am a trauma-informed board certified art therapist and licensed professional counselor with over 13 years of clinical and supervisory experience. I integrate art therapy, sand tray therapy, and IFS into my practice. As such, I am dedicated to a therapeutic intervention that is rooted in nurturance and creative expression.
(571) 470-5219 View (571) 470-5219
Photo of Megan Elizabeth Fellows, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22030, VA
Megan Elizabeth Fellows
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over years experience in the mental health field, I thoroughly enjoy my role in helping others to reach their goals. I have worked with individuals, families, and groups in both inpatient and outpatient settings within the DC Metro area. Specifically, I have experience with adults, adolescents, and children presenting with a variety of concerns and needs. I have also had the privilege of serving individuals with intellectual disabilities and developmental delays in both private, in-home, and educational settings.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over years experience in the mental health field, I thoroughly enjoy my role in helping others to reach their goals. I have worked with individuals, families, and groups in both inpatient and outpatient settings within the DC Metro area. Specifically, I have experience with adults, adolescents, and children presenting with a variety of concerns and needs. I have also had the privilege of serving individuals with intellectual disabilities and developmental delays in both private, in-home, and educational settings.
(571) 374-1726 View (571) 374-1726
Photo of Child, Teen and Family Therapy at CCHC, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in 22030, VA
Child, Teen and Family Therapy at CCHC
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, LMFT-R, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
At The Center for Connection, Healing & Change we specialize in working with toddlers, children, teens, and their families. Our family therapists are skilled in working with relationships, attachment, anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, behavioral concerns, academics, trauma, life transitions, somatic issues, identity, self-worth, trauma, adoption, and loss. As each family is different, we utilize evidence-based models to help you find real-world solutions that fit you and your unique family needs. A full description of our treatment philosophy and the areas we work with can be found at www.thecenterforconnection.com
At The Center for Connection, Healing & Change we specialize in working with toddlers, children, teens, and their families. Our family therapists are skilled in working with relationships, attachment, anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, behavioral concerns, academics, trauma, life transitions, somatic issues, identity, self-worth, trauma, adoption, and loss. As each family is different, we utilize evidence-based models to help you find real-world solutions that fit you and your unique family needs. A full description of our treatment philosophy and the areas we work with can be found at www.thecenterforconnection.com
(571) 380-8411 View (571) 380-8411
Photo of Lynda Tsai Guo, Counselor in 22030, VA
Lynda Tsai Guo
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or frustrated? Has life been painful, confusing, and just plain complicated? You’ve tried to cope yet it doesn’t seem to get any better. Whether you’re a teen or adult struggling with relationships, life transitions, work, school, or life in general, I can help you. Let’s sort through the chaos and hurt together to find the hidden strengths that will empower you to begin living with more clarity and contentment.
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or frustrated? Has life been painful, confusing, and just plain complicated? You’ve tried to cope yet it doesn’t seem to get any better. Whether you’re a teen or adult struggling with relationships, life transitions, work, school, or life in general, I can help you. Let’s sort through the chaos and hurt together to find the hidden strengths that will empower you to begin living with more clarity and contentment.
(571) 554-5532 View (571) 554-5532
Photo of Ronnie Zuessman, Psychologist in 22030, VA
Ronnie Zuessman
Psychologist, PhD, LCP-VA, LMFT-VA, LMHC-NY
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
People often seek counseling or psychotherapy to change and to resolve difficulties or problems. Seeking consultation is personal and it takes some courage to initiate contact. Sometimes the impetus comes from within; sometimes your circumstances or others close to you provide a nudge. Finding the 'right' therapist for you may take some exploration. Some people simply seek to talk privately about a subject or an issue. This may involve one's direction in life, career, management role, or decision-making. Some people seek to address deeply personal thoughts, emotions, behaviors, relationships, spirituality, or other concerns.
People often seek counseling or psychotherapy to change and to resolve difficulties or problems. Seeking consultation is personal and it takes some courage to initiate contact. Sometimes the impetus comes from within; sometimes your circumstances or others close to you provide a nudge. Finding the 'right' therapist for you may take some exploration. Some people simply seek to talk privately about a subject or an issue. This may involve one's direction in life, career, management role, or decision-making. Some people seek to address deeply personal thoughts, emotions, behaviors, relationships, spirituality, or other concerns.
(703) 260-9459 View (703) 260-9459
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.