Transgender Therapists in Arizona

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 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 Aiden Sismondo -Gender Identity Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Aiden Sismondo -Gender Identity Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
As a transgender man, I am dedicated to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community because I truly believe that strength lies within human connections and feelings of acceptance.
I am a compassionate and empathetic person, and my goal as your therapist is to provide a safe and non-judgmental setting while you embark on your gender journey. My therapeutic approaches include motivational interviewing, EMDR, solution-focused interventions, and person-centered engagement. Shortly after receiving my bachelor’s degree, I moved to Arizona and began my journey to discover my authentic self. In 2009, I made the courageous steps to live authentically as a transgender man and medically transition. Therefore, I bring a wealth of knowledge regarding resources to therapy.
As a transgender man, I am dedicated to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community because I truly believe that strength lies within human connections and feelings of acceptance.
I am a compassionate and empathetic person, and my goal as your therapist is to provide a safe and non-judgmental setting while you embark on your gender journey. My therapeutic approaches include motivational interviewing, EMDR, solution-focused interventions, and person-centered engagement. Shortly after receiving my bachelor’s degree, I moved to Arizona and began my journey to discover my authentic self. In 2009, I made the courageous steps to live authentically as a transgender man and medically transition. Therefore, I bring a wealth of knowledge regarding resources to therapy.
(623) 632-0363 View (623) 632-0363
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 Mindy Robbins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Mindy Robbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Hello! I am a queer and non-binary therapist who offers an affirming space for those who are 2SLGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, kinky, polyam, gender questioning, transgender, and non-binary/ gender diverse. I believe everyone should have the opportunity to feel seen and understood from their own unique perspective and that healing occurs as you align with your most authentic self. I am able to provide letters for those seeking Gender Affirming medical care.
Hello! I am a queer and non-binary therapist who offers an affirming space for those who are 2SLGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, kinky, polyam, gender questioning, transgender, and non-binary/ gender diverse. I believe everyone should have the opportunity to feel seen and understood from their own unique perspective and that healing occurs as you align with your most authentic self. I am able to provide letters for those seeking Gender Affirming medical care.
(623) 888-8732 View (623) 888-8732
Photo of Mary A Brasch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Mary A Brasch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACL, MA, LPC, Regd-Ht, CAGS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032
I host a transgender ( LGBTQ) support group in person.
I believe in creating and maintaining a safe and supportive environment in which my clients have the opportunity to explore their histories and experiences, develop greater self awareness, achieve insight into their issues, and enhance their strengths. My treatment approach is both creative and flexible. I treat adults for issues that may include: Parenting, Marriage and Relationships, Communication, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Bereavement, and Gender issues. My experience over years as an educator, school counselor and behavioral specialist makes treating children and teens a special skill area I offer.
I host a transgender ( LGBTQ) support group in person.
I believe in creating and maintaining a safe and supportive environment in which my clients have the opportunity to explore their histories and experiences, develop greater self awareness, achieve insight into their issues, and enhance their strengths. My treatment approach is both creative and flexible. I treat adults for issues that may include: Parenting, Marriage and Relationships, Communication, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Bereavement, and Gender issues. My experience over years as an educator, school counselor and behavioral specialist makes treating children and teens a special skill area I offer.
(602) 910-2332 View (602) 910-2332
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 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 Cathy L Zipp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Cathy L Zipp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
Practicing EMDR for 15 years and kicking butt with Transgender Teens and Young Adults.
If you're ready for a kick-butt therapist, let's talk. I teach, support, inspire, give homework-and hold you accountable for making progress. Advanced techniques in EMDR will restore stability FAST. You will have fun again SOON & heal your traumas FOR GOOD. Big T & little t trauma work will pay off. It requires an investment of time & money, and you are worth it. Plan to cry & laugh a lot. My book, MidLife with Style, hit #1 on Amazon. Thanks everyone! I'll show you how to kick butt in Mid Life!
Practicing EMDR for 15 years and kicking butt with Transgender Teens and Young Adults.
If you're ready for a kick-butt therapist, let's talk. I teach, support, inspire, give homework-and hold you accountable for making progress. Advanced techniques in EMDR will restore stability FAST. You will have fun again SOON & heal your traumas FOR GOOD. Big T & little t trauma work will pay off. It requires an investment of time & money, and you are worth it. Plan to cry & laugh a lot. My book, MidLife with Style, hit #1 on Amazon. Thanks everyone! I'll show you how to kick butt in Mid Life!
(520) 401-5995 View (520) 401-5995
Photo of Jessica Fletcher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Jessica Fletcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, CCTS, TCYM
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I have completed continuing education training on working with transgender, nonbinary, and gender expansive adults and youth.
Hi, I'm Jess. I believe therapy is a collaborative process grounded in a trusting, therapeutic relationship. In my role, I provide the compassionate space for you to begin self-reflection and explore ways to initiate changes in your life. The therapy relationship becomes the safe, working model to practice communication. Part of my style is helping you embrace uncertainty in the transformation process, clarify your values, and explore your relationship with your thoughts, emotions, and body.
I have completed continuing education training on working with transgender, nonbinary, and gender expansive adults and youth.
Hi, I'm Jess. I believe therapy is a collaborative process grounded in a trusting, therapeutic relationship. In my role, I provide the compassionate space for you to begin self-reflection and explore ways to initiate changes in your life. The therapy relationship becomes the safe, working model to practice communication. Part of my style is helping you embrace uncertainty in the transformation process, clarify your values, and explore your relationship with your thoughts, emotions, and body.
(833) 536-1026 View (833) 536-1026
Photo of Arizona/Nationwide Comprehensive Gender Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Arizona/Nationwide Comprehensive Gender Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85705
I am a Gender Therapist in Tucson Arizona. I have been a therapist for over 30 years. I offer transition services to people who are transgender, non-binary or gender queer. I also work with the partners, friends and families of the above. I WORK WiITH PEOPLE WHO NEED SURGERY LETTERS OR INFORMED CONSENT LETTERS FOR HORMONES-NO MATTER WHERE YOU LIVE. I also have a referral list for Endocrinologists and Primary Care Physicians who work with transgender and non-binary people. I help my clients with name and gender marker changes,
I am a Gender Therapist in Tucson Arizona. I have been a therapist for over 30 years. I offer transition services to people who are transgender, non-binary or gender queer. I also work with the partners, friends and families of the above. I WORK WiITH PEOPLE WHO NEED SURGERY LETTERS OR INFORMED CONSENT LETTERS FOR HORMONES-NO MATTER WHERE YOU LIVE. I also have a referral list for Endocrinologists and Primary Care Physicians who work with transgender and non-binary people. I help my clients with name and gender marker changes,
(520) 353-4183 View (520) 353-4183
Photo of Sandra Nettles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Sandra Nettles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85023
People see me for depression, anxiety, grief, marriage counseling, addiction to sex or pornography, teens, transgender issues, and more.
I help individuals struggling with anxiety or depression, couples restore their love, intimacy & trust, individuals with sexual addiction stop the roller coaster, and individuals with gender questions sort things out.
People see me for depression, anxiety, grief, marriage counseling, addiction to sex or pornography, teens, transgender issues, and more.
I help individuals struggling with anxiety or depression, couples restore their love, intimacy & trust, individuals with sexual addiction stop the roller coaster, and individuals with gender questions sort things out.
(480) 409-2322 View (480) 409-2322
Photo of Sammy Skinner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Sammy Skinner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I’m Sammy and I'm an openly queer therapist who is passionate about supporting the LGBTQ+ community. I offer virtual therapy services for individuals ages 18 and older. My primary passion and area of advanced training as a therapist is LGBTQ+ care, including a variety of related topics such as identity clarification, gender dysphoria, minority stress, intersectionality, coming out, navigating relationships, processing trauma, reducing shame, and fostering self-love. I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) but I am trained in a variety of other modalities which I can use to adapt to each client’s individual needs.
Hi! I’m Sammy and I'm an openly queer therapist who is passionate about supporting the LGBTQ+ community. I offer virtual therapy services for individuals ages 18 and older. My primary passion and area of advanced training as a therapist is LGBTQ+ care, including a variety of related topics such as identity clarification, gender dysphoria, minority stress, intersectionality, coming out, navigating relationships, processing trauma, reducing shame, and fostering self-love. I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) but I am trained in a variety of other modalities which I can use to adapt to each client’s individual needs.
(602) 641-3412 View (602) 641-3412
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 Dr. Diana Medina at Balanced Life Psychology LLC, Psychologist in Arizona
Dr. Diana Medina at Balanced Life Psychology LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85255  (Online Only)
I'm a SOC-8 Certified member of World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) and member of the AZ and American Psychological Associations.
Accepting new patients! Schedule directly online at www.balancedlifepsychology.com. I specialize in three main areas: 1. psychotherapy/counseling for adults (stress, anxiety, depression), 2. gender identity issues (self-discovery, transition journey, coming out, referral letters for hormones & surgeries) and 3. consultations (for individuals and other professionals). If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Medina through her website www.balancedlifepsychology.com or via email. Dr. Medina sees patients via Telehealth only. Dr. Medina is bilingual (English and Spanish) and offers services in both languages.
I'm a SOC-8 Certified member of World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) and member of the AZ and American Psychological Associations.
Accepting new patients! Schedule directly online at www.balancedlifepsychology.com. I specialize in three main areas: 1. psychotherapy/counseling for adults (stress, anxiety, depression), 2. gender identity issues (self-discovery, transition journey, coming out, referral letters for hormones & surgeries) and 3. consultations (for individuals and other professionals). If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Medina through her website www.balancedlifepsychology.com or via email. Dr. Medina sees patients via Telehealth only. Dr. Medina is bilingual (English and Spanish) and offers services in both languages.
(602) 900-9550 View (602) 900-9550
Photo of Dr. Luke R. Allen, Psychologist in Arizona
Dr. Luke R. Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85281  (Online Only)
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
(480) 933-1369 View (480) 933-1369
Photo of Aaron Aster, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Aaron Aster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392  (Online Only)
As an LPC, I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals facing anxiety, panic disorders, depression, stress, and 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. Take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow and schedule a free, confidential consultation.
As an LPC, I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals facing anxiety, panic disorders, depression, stress, and 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. Take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow and schedule a free, confidential consultation.
(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 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

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.