Photo of Zoe Hays, Registered Psychotherapist in 80216, CO
Zoe Hays
Registered Psychotherapist, MS, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80216
I enjoy working with neurospicy/neurosparkly people, queer people, chronically ill people, and people who simply are ready to dive into what it means to be a human in this world. I believe in the interconnectedness of the body, the mind, and the spirit and will bring it all into our sessions if that is what calls to you. I don't believe in pushing people to disclose if they don't want to. I work within a framework of consent and open-heartedness at all times. I want you to feel safe when you are with me and to learn how to hold that space for yourself as well. Please check out my website at mountainmeadowllc.me for more about me.
I enjoy working with neurospicy/neurosparkly people, queer people, chronically ill people, and people who simply are ready to dive into what it means to be a human in this world. I believe in the interconnectedness of the body, the mind, and the spirit and will bring it all into our sessions if that is what calls to you. I don't believe in pushing people to disclose if they don't want to. I work within a framework of consent and open-heartedness at all times. I want you to feel safe when you are with me and to learn how to hold that space for yourself as well. Please check out my website at mountainmeadowllc.me for more about me.
(720) 664-8121 View (720) 664-8121
Photo of Alexa McElroy, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80216, CO
Alexa McElroy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80216  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
When we experience hardship without community support, we learn to defend against emotions that would be simply too much to hold alone. I identify as a pansexual genderqueer woman and I honor therapy as a space where all of our identities are important. I work with the nervous system and show up as my real, genuine self. My clients typically come to therapy when their defenses hold them back from loving relationships or a fulfilling life.
When we experience hardship without community support, we learn to defend against emotions that would be simply too much to hold alone. I identify as a pansexual genderqueer woman and I honor therapy as a space where all of our identities are important. I work with the nervous system and show up as my real, genuine self. My clients typically come to therapy when their defenses hold them back from loving relationships or a fulfilling life.
(720) 782-5840 View (720) 782-5840
Photo of Bree Bessette - Holistic And Spiritual Counseling, Counselor in 80216, CO
Bree Bessette - Holistic And Spiritual Counseling
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80216
Starting the healing process is challenging and takes courage. Within all of us is a drive or desire to become whole, happy and connected to our self and our world. I see the importance of integrating all parts and aspects of our Self and becoming more whole and complete human beings. This journey into wholeness in the realization of our potential, underpins our personal journey of transformation and healing. This philosophy is at the core of my approach.
Starting the healing process is challenging and takes courage. Within all of us is a drive or desire to become whole, happy and connected to our self and our world. I see the importance of integrating all parts and aspects of our Self and becoming more whole and complete human beings. This journey into wholeness in the realization of our potential, underpins our personal journey of transformation and healing. This philosophy is at the core of my approach.
(720) 764-9304 View (720) 764-9304
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.