Photo of Forrest Marvin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Forrest Marvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85003
I am a non-binary, transgender person who strongly values being a part of queer community.
Maybe you're feeling stuck in the same cycles you can't seem to break out of. Maybe you're struggling to maintain relationships that feel safe and supportive. Maybe you know that you've been impacted by the painful experiences you've had, but you don't know where to start with unpacking them. It can be scary to face your pain, and you deserve support. You're not too much, and you're not alone. I want to support you with deepening your self-understanding and self-compassion. Healing is possible when you're ready to start.
I am a non-binary, transgender person who strongly values being a part of queer community.
Maybe you're feeling stuck in the same cycles you can't seem to break out of. Maybe you're struggling to maintain relationships that feel safe and supportive. Maybe you know that you've been impacted by the painful experiences you've had, but you don't know where to start with unpacking them. It can be scary to face your pain, and you deserve support. You're not too much, and you're not alone. I want to support you with deepening your self-understanding and self-compassion. Healing is possible when you're ready to start.
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Photo of Gender Identity Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Gender Identity Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
We are a diverse team of therapists that understand the pain of gender dysphoria.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Would you like to talk about gender with a caring professional in a confidential space? We are a therapy practice devoted to supporting teens, adults, and families who are transgender, non-binary, gender fluid, gender queer, or just wanting to explore gender identity. We can connect you to needed resources, write referral letters, and network you in to our LGBTQ supportive community. Most importantly we value creating safe and trusting therapeutic relationships so that we can be in the journey of gender identity with you and you do not have to go it alone.
We are a diverse team of therapists that understand the pain of gender dysphoria.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Would you like to talk about gender with a caring professional in a confidential space? We are a therapy practice devoted to supporting teens, adults, and families who are transgender, non-binary, gender fluid, gender queer, or just wanting to explore gender identity. We can connect you to needed resources, write referral letters, and network you in to our LGBTQ supportive community. Most importantly we value creating safe and trusting therapeutic relationships so that we can be in the journey of gender identity with you and you do not have to go it alone.
(602) 691-6496 View (602) 691-6496
Photo of Gender Identity Center Tucson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Gender Identity Center Tucson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85704
We are a diverse team of therapists that understand the pain of gender dysphoria.
Accepting New Clients! Would you like to talk about gender with a caring professional in a confidential space? We are a therapy practice devoted to supporting teens, adults, and families who are transgender, non-binary, gender fluid, gender queer, or just wanting to explore gender identity. We can connect you to needed resources, write referral letters, and network you in to our LGBTQ+ supportive community. Most importantly we value creating safe and trusting therapeutic relationships so that we can be in the journey of gender identity with you and you do not have to go it alone.
We are a diverse team of therapists that understand the pain of gender dysphoria.
Accepting New Clients! Would you like to talk about gender with a caring professional in a confidential space? We are a therapy practice devoted to supporting teens, adults, and families who are transgender, non-binary, gender fluid, gender queer, or just wanting to explore gender identity. We can connect you to needed resources, write referral letters, and network you in to our LGBTQ+ supportive community. Most importantly we value creating safe and trusting therapeutic relationships so that we can be in the journey of gender identity with you and you do not have to go it alone.
(520) 346-7816 View (520) 346-7816
Photo of Riley Walsh - Gender Identity Center, Counselor in Arizona
Riley Walsh - Gender Identity Center
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
My name is Riley and my pronouns are he/him/his. My work is focused on supporting the LGBTQIA2S+ community. As a transgender and autistic man, it is important to me that my clients have a safe space in my office to be their most authentic self and may be met with unconditional positive regard throughout their therapeutic experience. Seeking therapy is a courageous first step in an effort to better oneself and it is an act of self-love. I firmly believe that everyone deserves a space to embark on this journey and be met with acceptance at every stage of their healing. I am accepting clients of all ages.
My name is Riley and my pronouns are he/him/his. My work is focused on supporting the LGBTQIA2S+ community. As a transgender and autistic man, it is important to me that my clients have a safe space in my office to be their most authentic self and may be met with unconditional positive regard throughout their therapeutic experience. Seeking therapy is a courageous first step in an effort to better oneself and it is an act of self-love. I firmly believe that everyone deserves a space to embark on this journey and be met with acceptance at every stage of their healing. I am accepting clients of all ages.
(623) 294-9188 View (623) 294-9188
Photo of Nai (Audrey-Paige) Smiddy, Counselor in Arizona
Nai (Audrey-Paige) Smiddy
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712  (Online Only)
I am a non-binary Licensed Associate Counselor in Arizona, license number LAC-20028.  I am currently working towards the Sex Therapist Certification and Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology at Modern Sex Therapy Institutes.  My personal and professional knowledge of gender identity, transgender treatment, and human sexuality allows me the tools to help transgender and non-binary folx live authentically with self-love and acceptance.  Working with the transgender and gender nonconforming community is my passion.  I also provide family therapy to help partners through transitions of gender identity and build connection with true acceptance of
I am a non-binary Licensed Associate Counselor in Arizona, license number LAC-20028.  I am currently working towards the Sex Therapist Certification and Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology at Modern Sex Therapy Institutes.  My personal and professional knowledge of gender identity, transgender treatment, and human sexuality allows me the tools to help transgender and non-binary folx live authentically with self-love and acceptance.  Working with the transgender and gender nonconforming community is my passion.  I also provide family therapy to help partners through transitions of gender identity and build connection with true acceptance of
(520) 210-4087 View (520) 210-4087
Photo of Samantha Colone, Counselor in Arizona
Samantha Colone
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I devote my practice to gender diverse and LGB/Queer adults. I have experience working with transgender, nonbinary, gender fluid, and gender queer individuals. I value creating a safe and confidential therapeutic alliance to address your needs whether they are based on gender identity and sexuality or other mental health concerns such as trauma, depression, and anxiety. I am trained in EMDR therapy and use a variety of other treatment approaches depending on your unique needs.
I devote my practice to gender diverse and LGB/Queer adults. I have experience working with transgender, nonbinary, gender fluid, and gender queer individuals. I value creating a safe and confidential therapeutic alliance to address your needs whether they are based on gender identity and sexuality or other mental health concerns such as trauma, depression, and anxiety. I am trained in EMDR therapy and use a variety of other treatment approaches depending on your unique needs.
(602) 362-7829 x1 View (602) 362-7829 x1
Photo of Aaron Aster, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Aaron Aster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals facing anxiety, panic disorders, depression, stress, gender dysphoria. Tailoring evidence-based therapies to each client's unique journey, I provide affirming and inclusive support. By creating a safe and affirming space, I empower clients to explore their emotions, identify coping strategies, and cultivate resilience. Together, we can work towards fostering inner peace, self-acceptance, and meaningful growth on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. Counseling is for everyone and receiving care does not mean something is wrong, perhaps it is just about growth.
I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals facing anxiety, panic disorders, depression, stress, gender dysphoria. Tailoring evidence-based therapies to each client's unique journey, I provide affirming and inclusive support. By creating a safe and affirming space, I empower clients to explore their emotions, identify coping strategies, and cultivate resilience. Together, we can work towards fostering inner peace, self-acceptance, and meaningful growth on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. Counseling is for everyone and receiving care does not mean something is wrong, perhaps it is just about growth.
(623) 254-4420 View (623) 254-4420
Photo of Alyssa Palty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Alyssa Palty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044  (Online Only)
Discovering and disclosing your identity can be anxiety provoking. I partner with folks to navigate this journey including LGBTQIA+, Transgender, Faith Transitions, and Ex Mormon communities. Perhaps you've had questions about your identity your entire life that you've kept in the back of your mind. Or maybe some article or video just sparked something for you now. Not feeling trans enough? Can't wait to transition? It can feel daunting task to contemplate coming out. It can feel even more rewarding to live in a way that feels free and happy. I can't wait to see you happy and at peace.
Discovering and disclosing your identity can be anxiety provoking. I partner with folks to navigate this journey including LGBTQIA+, Transgender, Faith Transitions, and Ex Mormon communities. Perhaps you've had questions about your identity your entire life that you've kept in the back of your mind. Or maybe some article or video just sparked something for you now. Not feeling trans enough? Can't wait to transition? It can feel daunting task to contemplate coming out. It can feel even more rewarding to live in a way that feels free and happy. I can't wait to see you happy and at peace.
(520) 214-0742 View (520) 214-0742
Photo of Anna Bernasconi, Counselor in Arizona
Anna Bernasconi
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I have over six years of experience working with teenagers and adults. I specialize in working with clients who have gender identity issues, including transgender, those on the Autism spectrum, ADHD, sex and pornography addiction, Men's issues, family relationship problems, personality disorders, self-harming and suicidal ideation. My therapeutic approaches I use include supportive counseling, person-centered, strengths-based, CBT, DBT and trauma informed. I am a gender affirming therapist.
Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I have over six years of experience working with teenagers and adults. I specialize in working with clients who have gender identity issues, including transgender, those on the Autism spectrum, ADHD, sex and pornography addiction, Men's issues, family relationship problems, personality disorders, self-harming and suicidal ideation. My therapeutic approaches I use include supportive counseling, person-centered, strengths-based, CBT, DBT and trauma informed. I am a gender affirming therapist.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
Photo of Kimberly Dawn Kabar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Kimberly Dawn Kabar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, KAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
I specialize in gender dysphoria, anxiety and trauma. Our journey together is about healing past wounds & shedding the negative beliefs that are keeping you stuck & away from the joy that is your innate right to experience. The struggle to lesson anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria and/or the pain of past traumas has led many of my clients to self-sooth through a variety of ways including eating, smoking, drinking, gaming, & toxic relationships. Through therapy, including EMDR and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, my clients not only get unstuck, they soar.
I specialize in gender dysphoria, anxiety and trauma. Our journey together is about healing past wounds & shedding the negative beliefs that are keeping you stuck & away from the joy that is your innate right to experience. The struggle to lesson anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria and/or the pain of past traumas has led many of my clients to self-sooth through a variety of ways including eating, smoking, drinking, gaming, & toxic relationships. Through therapy, including EMDR and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, my clients not only get unstuck, they soar.
(323) 530-1219 View (323) 530-1219
Photo of The Lotus Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
The Lotus Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I treat most issues, however, I specialize in teens, adults, the transgender population, women's issues, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and addiction.
I offer Telehealth counseling services for a wide range of life's challenges. I provide services that span from therapy for depression, anxiety, transgender related issues, women's issues, adolescent issues, trauma, addiction, to serious or terminal heath issues. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each clients' individual needs to assist in attaining the personal growth they are striving for.
I treat most issues, however, I specialize in teens, adults, the transgender population, women's issues, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and addiction.
I offer Telehealth counseling services for a wide range of life's challenges. I provide services that span from therapy for depression, anxiety, transgender related issues, women's issues, adolescent issues, trauma, addiction, to serious or terminal heath issues. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each clients' individual needs to assist in attaining the personal growth they are striving for.
(619) 279-5782 View (619) 279-5782
Photo of Maureen Zdanis, Psychologist in Arizona
Maureen Zdanis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85054
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am licensed in AL, AZ, AR, CT, CO, DE, GA, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY.
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am licensed in AL, AZ, AR, CT, CO, DE, GA, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY.
(267) 376-8313 View (267) 376-8313
Photo of Marie Harris, Counselor in Arizona
Marie Harris
Counselor, MS, CMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86404  (Online Only)
I offer virtual therapy for people suffering with symptoms of trauma, major depression, severe anxiety, ADHD, autism, grief, intellectual disabilities, behavioral disorders, women’s issues, men’s issues, relationship, marital, parenting issues, divorce, as well as phase of life transitions. I have also worked with victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and individuals and families dealing with substance abuse/addiction issues. I am very comfortable with people of all gender identities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersex, asexual, pansexual, and Allies (LGBTQIA+).
I offer virtual therapy for people suffering with symptoms of trauma, major depression, severe anxiety, ADHD, autism, grief, intellectual disabilities, behavioral disorders, women’s issues, men’s issues, relationship, marital, parenting issues, divorce, as well as phase of life transitions. I have also worked with victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and individuals and families dealing with substance abuse/addiction issues. I am very comfortable with people of all gender identities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersex, asexual, pansexual, and Allies (LGBTQIA+).
(928) 212-2439 View (928) 212-2439
Photo of Kathleen Young, Psychologist in Arizona
Kathleen Young
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716  (Online Only)
I provide consultation and/or letters of recommendation for transgender people seeking gender-affirming surgeries.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Stuck? Are you struggling with unresolved past pain? Healing is possible. I can help. My career focus has been on treating trauma and its aftermath. I have training and experience with many trauma treatment approaches ( PE, CPT, EMDR, DBT) which I apply in the context of a psychodynamic and relational approach to therapy. You have the right to seek a therapist who is a good fit!
I provide consultation and/or letters of recommendation for transgender people seeking gender-affirming surgeries.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Stuck? Are you struggling with unresolved past pain? Healing is possible. I can help. My career focus has been on treating trauma and its aftermath. I have training and experience with many trauma treatment approaches ( PE, CPT, EMDR, DBT) which I apply in the context of a psychodynamic and relational approach to therapy. You have the right to seek a therapist who is a good fit!
(520) 346-0915 View (520) 346-0915
Photo of Rachel Baumgardner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Rachel Baumgardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340  (Online Only)
I am trained in writing gender affirming care letters for transgender and non-binary clients, and extremely enjoy providing a safe-space for those who are trying to better understand their identities.
I believe that embracing oneself can be one of life's most challenging journeys, yet among the most rewarding! I'm here to meet you where you are, and help you on your journey. I treat every client with compassion and through a lens of non-judgment. I spent six years working in community mental health and have treated marginalized/underserved peoples. I love helping clients through phase of life issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, mood struggles, and more. I apply an integrated approach and use motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and person-centered therapy. I am social justice oriented.
I am trained in writing gender affirming care letters for transgender and non-binary clients, and extremely enjoy providing a safe-space for those who are trying to better understand their identities.
I believe that embracing oneself can be one of life's most challenging journeys, yet among the most rewarding! I'm here to meet you where you are, and help you on your journey. I treat every client with compassion and through a lens of non-judgment. I spent six years working in community mental health and have treated marginalized/underserved peoples. I love helping clients through phase of life issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, mood struggles, and more. I apply an integrated approach and use motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and person-centered therapy. I am social justice oriented.
(623) 304-6796 View (623) 304-6796
Photo of Lindsey R Buckman, Psychologist in Arizona
Lindsey R Buckman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018
I have received extensive training in the areas of care giving, chronic illness, infertility, trauma, couples/relationship concerns, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues, compulsive overeating/binge eating, and third party reproduction.
As a psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and help you find ways to be your best self. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can use them to better understand and resolve the current challenges in your life. By working collaboratively, we will work to adjust behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I have received extensive training in the areas of care giving, chronic illness, infertility, trauma, couples/relationship concerns, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues, compulsive overeating/binge eating, and third party reproduction.
As a psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and help you find ways to be your best self. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can use them to better understand and resolve the current challenges in your life. By working collaboratively, we will work to adjust behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(480) 418-0894 View (480) 418-0894
Photo of Mary (Molly) E Kent, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Mary (Molly) E Kent
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85719
I have over 40 years experience working with clients in Tucson, providing caring, compassionate, confidential therapy with a wide variety of folks. My work has often focused on trauma resolution with victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse, or recent trauma. I have extensive experience with adolescents, families, and with women who are working through life changes. I have worked with clients addressing gender dysphoria, both teens and adults working through transgender identity issues. My training is eclectic, including TA, GESTAULT, Guided Imagery, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness meditation, and EMDR. My goal is to find what works best for you.
I have over 40 years experience working with clients in Tucson, providing caring, compassionate, confidential therapy with a wide variety of folks. My work has often focused on trauma resolution with victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse, or recent trauma. I have extensive experience with adolescents, families, and with women who are working through life changes. I have worked with clients addressing gender dysphoria, both teens and adults working through transgender identity issues. My training is eclectic, including TA, GESTAULT, Guided Imagery, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness meditation, and EMDR. My goal is to find what works best for you.
(520) 441-3099 View (520) 441-3099
Photo of Adam Lane, Counselor in Arizona
Adam Lane
Counselor
Verified Verified
Camp Verde, AZ 86322  (Online Only)
I have been practicing in the Substance abuse and Mental Health arena since 2007. I have a Master’s in Professional Counseling and a Masters in Addiction Counseling. I have the following Certifications/ Licensure: LAADC-CA, LISAC-AZ, LCDC-TX, LADC II, MCAP-FL and SAP. I specialize in Addiction Treatment but also Co-Occurring issues that may have had a role in substance abuse. Ages 16 and older are my focus group and with all concerns from PTSD, gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression and obsessive compulsive disorder. My approach is a combination of CBT, REBT, MI, HARM Reduction and Therapeutic Community.
I have been practicing in the Substance abuse and Mental Health arena since 2007. I have a Master’s in Professional Counseling and a Masters in Addiction Counseling. I have the following Certifications/ Licensure: LAADC-CA, LISAC-AZ, LCDC-TX, LADC II, MCAP-FL and SAP. I specialize in Addiction Treatment but also Co-Occurring issues that may have had a role in substance abuse. Ages 16 and older are my focus group and with all concerns from PTSD, gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression and obsessive compulsive disorder. My approach is a combination of CBT, REBT, MI, HARM Reduction and Therapeutic Community.
(602) 497-3590 View (602) 497-3590
Photo of Sam Barrons, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Arizona
Sam Barrons
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032  (Online Only)
Are you seeking a therapist who understands and celebrates your unique identity, relationship, and experiences? As a licensed associate marriage and family therapist, I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to explore their unique challenges and work toward healing and growth. My practice focuses on serving the LGBTQ+, kinky, polyamorous/CNM, and trauma survivor communities, and I am dedicated to fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding. With a passion for helping others navigate life's complexities, I offer personalized guidance and support tailored to your needs.
Are you seeking a therapist who understands and celebrates your unique identity, relationship, and experiences? As a licensed associate marriage and family therapist, I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to explore their unique challenges and work toward healing and growth. My practice focuses on serving the LGBTQ+, kinky, polyamorous/CNM, and trauma survivor communities, and I am dedicated to fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding. With a passion for helping others navigate life's complexities, I offer personalized guidance and support tailored to your needs.
(602) 560-4351 View (602) 560-4351
Photo of Kai Kline, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Kai Kline
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I'm a licensed therapist and provide individual/family therapy for all ages. I help clients navigate a variety of experiences, including anxiety/depression, trauma, neurodiversity, and specialize in gender/sexual identity. I approach counseling in a variety of ways but primarily work with the narrative that we are the experts of our own lives and as such, can make meaningful change. I provide clients with a safe space for exploration and growth by maintaining a nonjudgmental and laid back approach to therapy. I encourage all clients to show up as their authentic selves, and together we can identify and foster meaningful change!
Hi! I'm a licensed therapist and provide individual/family therapy for all ages. I help clients navigate a variety of experiences, including anxiety/depression, trauma, neurodiversity, and specialize in gender/sexual identity. I approach counseling in a variety of ways but primarily work with the narrative that we are the experts of our own lives and as such, can make meaningful change. I provide clients with a safe space for exploration and growth by maintaining a nonjudgmental and laid back approach to therapy. I encourage all clients to show up as their authentic selves, and together we can identify and foster meaningful change!
(480) 571-3746 View (480) 571-3746
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.