Transgender Therapists in Carmel Valley, CA

Photo of Dr. Rebecca A Scott, Psychologist in Carmel Valley, CA
Dr. Rebecca A Scott
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Carmel Valley, CA 93924  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. When we feel stuck in our situation, it can create feelings of hopelessness. In addition to the many problems that complicate our daily lives such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, patients come to me with complex relationship issues including marital distress, divorce recovery, verbal & emotional abuse, loss of child, parent, or spouse. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective, to address the root problem, not just the symptoms. Like physical therapy, the goal is to get well and end treatment. I offer perspective on your experience, and provide clear, concise directions on meeting your goals.
Accepting New Patients. When we feel stuck in our situation, it can create feelings of hopelessness. In addition to the many problems that complicate our daily lives such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, patients come to me with complex relationship issues including marital distress, divorce recovery, verbal & emotional abuse, loss of child, parent, or spouse. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective, to address the root problem, not just the symptoms. Like physical therapy, the goal is to get well and end treatment. I offer perspective on your experience, and provide clear, concise directions on meeting your goals.
(831) 208-3701 View (831) 208-3701
Photo of Kate Newhouse, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel Valley, CA
Kate Newhouse
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel Valley, CA 93924
When people first present to my office, they have a range of significant concerns. It might be medical, school or work related or family dynamics, and, of course, life stressors. Through our work together you will build new awareness and tools. Human beings naturally trend toward health when they are able to build self inquiry, self awareness, and compassionate connection. The goal is to thrive.
When people first present to my office, they have a range of significant concerns. It might be medical, school or work related or family dynamics, and, of course, life stressors. Through our work together you will build new awareness and tools. Human beings naturally trend toward health when they are able to build self inquiry, self awareness, and compassionate connection. The goal is to thrive.
(831) 249-0820 View (831) 249-0820
Photo of Danielle Williamson Lcsw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel Valley, CA
Danielle Williamson Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel Valley, CA 93924  (Online Only)
Are you ready for deeper healing than talk therapy? I am currently practicing Brainspotting/EMDR treatment to provide the deepest brain-based healing which goes much further than plain talk therapies. I specialize in trauma, first responders, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder and other diagnosis which inhibit you from living you best life.
Are you ready for deeper healing than talk therapy? I am currently practicing Brainspotting/EMDR treatment to provide the deepest brain-based healing which goes much further than plain talk therapies. I specialize in trauma, first responders, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder and other diagnosis which inhibit you from living you best life.
(619) 776-3371 View (619) 776-3371
Photo of The Equine Healing Collaborative, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel Valley, CA
The Equine Healing Collaborative
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel Valley, CA 93924
The Equine Healing Collaborative was created to provide a path to recovery, self-discovery, personal growth, a re-connection with the natural world, and/or emotional insight and health. The Equine Healing Collaborative offers more than just traditional talk therapy and utilizes interventions such as equine assisted therapy, mindfulness, and mindful equine massage to promote health and quality of life for individuals seeking change.
The Equine Healing Collaborative was created to provide a path to recovery, self-discovery, personal growth, a re-connection with the natural world, and/or emotional insight and health. The Equine Healing Collaborative offers more than just traditional talk therapy and utilizes interventions such as equine assisted therapy, mindfulness, and mindful equine massage to promote health and quality of life for individuals seeking change.
(831) 750-1526 View (831) 750-1526
Photo of Kelsey Lynn Paulson, Psychologist in Carmel Valley, CA
Kelsey Lynn Paulson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Carmel Valley, CA 93924
Not accepting new clients
Kelsey also works with the LGBTQ and Kink communities, and provides Gender Affirming Therapy to the Transgender community.
Dr. Kelsey Paulson is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. She received her Bachelor’s of Science at Iowa State University, and her Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at AIU with an emphasis in Forensics Studies. Over the past 17 years, Kelsey has received training and experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, older adults, families, couples, active duty service members, and Veterans. She has extensive experience working with severe mental illness, mood/anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use disorders, trauma, and chronic pain.
Kelsey also works with the LGBTQ and Kink communities, and provides Gender Affirming Therapy to the Transgender community.
Dr. Kelsey Paulson is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. She received her Bachelor’s of Science at Iowa State University, and her Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at AIU with an emphasis in Forensics Studies. Over the past 17 years, Kelsey has received training and experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, older adults, families, couples, active duty service members, and Veterans. She has extensive experience working with severe mental illness, mood/anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use disorders, trauma, and chronic pain.
(858) 943-6379 View (858) 943-6379

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mark F. Schwartz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel Valley, CA
Mark F. Schwartz
Marriage & Family Therapist, Sc, D
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93922
With more than 30 years of experience and a degree in Psychology from Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Schwartz specializes in working with 1) couples, marriage, and intimacy disorders; 2) bipolar and unipolar depression 3) eating disorders, 4) PTSD, addiction, and 5) sexual difficulties, sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction. His national recognition afforded him the experience of lecturing to over 100,000 therapists nationally, as well as editing three books. He is extremely compassionate and forms exceptional connections with his clients. He also Directs a Partial Hospitalization Program /Harmonyplacemonterey.See websight
With more than 30 years of experience and a degree in Psychology from Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Schwartz specializes in working with 1) couples, marriage, and intimacy disorders; 2) bipolar and unipolar depression 3) eating disorders, 4) PTSD, addiction, and 5) sexual difficulties, sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction. His national recognition afforded him the experience of lecturing to over 100,000 therapists nationally, as well as editing three books. He is extremely compassionate and forms exceptional connections with his clients. He also Directs a Partial Hospitalization Program /Harmonyplacemonterey.See websight
(831) 706-4795 View (831) 706-4795
Photo of Beyond Life Therapy in Carmel Valley, CA
Beyond Life Therapy
PhD, MpsyD, CCHt, NLPp, CI
Verified Verified
Carmel By The Sea, CA 93923
The goal of my practice is to serve experiencers, families, friends, health professionals and organizations offering support, care and HELP for the after-effects recovery for the REAL (Near) Death and Spiritual Transformative Experiences. Perhaps you had a near death experience recently or years ago and you feel misunderstood and isolated? Or know someone who has or did. Do you have a fear of death? Do you see death coming soon? Do you wish to transition? Speaking with me you will feel at ease with any of these scenarios.
The goal of my practice is to serve experiencers, families, friends, health professionals and organizations offering support, care and HELP for the after-effects recovery for the REAL (Near) Death and Spiritual Transformative Experiences. Perhaps you had a near death experience recently or years ago and you feel misunderstood and isolated? Or know someone who has or did. Do you have a fear of death? Do you see death coming soon? Do you wish to transition? Speaking with me you will feel at ease with any of these scenarios.
(831) 222-2128 View (831) 222-2128
Photo of Therapy Lab Monterey, Psychologist in Carmel Valley, CA
Therapy Lab Monterey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
Therapy Lab offers individual teletherapy that's based on a plan. Visit our website (therapylab.com) to explore a menu of treatment plans based on common goals for therapy. With your input, we'll make a plan that's based on your goals, your timeline, and your budget. Our science-based plans are designed to support you in overcoming distress (anxiety, relationship problems, work stress) so you walk away with emotional health and insight. At your first session, your exceptionally qualified therapist will get to know you and pick or design a plan that’s customized to your situation.
Therapy Lab offers individual teletherapy that's based on a plan. Visit our website (therapylab.com) to explore a menu of treatment plans based on common goals for therapy. With your input, we'll make a plan that's based on your goals, your timeline, and your budget. Our science-based plans are designed to support you in overcoming distress (anxiety, relationship problems, work stress) so you walk away with emotional health and insight. At your first session, your exceptionally qualified therapist will get to know you and pick or design a plan that’s customized to your situation.
(831) 231-1429 View (831) 231-1429
Photo of Wellspring Psychological Services, Inc., Psychologist in Carmel Valley, CA
Wellspring Psychological Services, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
I am the founder of Wellspring Psychological Services and supervising psychologist for this group private practice. I specialize in creating mind and body wholeness, helping to bring balance back into life. I have a passion for working with teens and young adults, particularly because the challenges of adolescence require a unique and strong client/therapist personality fit. Students in residency and couples in transition can take advantage of my 15 years of clinical expertise. My mission is to create a therapeutic space where each person is able to fully show up and create a more contented and peaceful life.
I am the founder of Wellspring Psychological Services and supervising psychologist for this group private practice. I specialize in creating mind and body wholeness, helping to bring balance back into life. I have a passion for working with teens and young adults, particularly because the challenges of adolescence require a unique and strong client/therapist personality fit. Students in residency and couples in transition can take advantage of my 15 years of clinical expertise. My mission is to create a therapeutic space where each person is able to fully show up and create a more contented and peaceful life.
(831) 222-6388 View (831) 222-6388

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Alex Townsend Lotz-Nigh, Psychological Associate in Carmel Valley, CA
Dr. Alex Townsend Lotz-Nigh
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
Are you or your middle school/high school age child needing the support of a gender specialist? Or are you an adult needing a LGBTQ+ affirming transgender/nonbinary therapist to support you in building greater resiliency and mental health? Welcome to my practice! I'm Dr. Townsend (he/him or they/them). I bring research, clinical, and lived experience to my work with the LGBTQ+ community. My approach combines tailored interventions, a warm interpersonal style, and fostering a safe and supportive environment to support you or your teen to reach greater authenticity and actualization.
Are you or your middle school/high school age child needing the support of a gender specialist? Or are you an adult needing a LGBTQ+ affirming transgender/nonbinary therapist to support you in building greater resiliency and mental health? Welcome to my practice! I'm Dr. Townsend (he/him or they/them). I bring research, clinical, and lived experience to my work with the LGBTQ+ community. My approach combines tailored interventions, a warm interpersonal style, and fostering a safe and supportive environment to support you or your teen to reach greater authenticity and actualization.
(341) 444-2080 View (341) 444-2080
Photo of Kel Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Carmel Valley, CA
Kel Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MCP, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I am a trans woman and somatic therapist employed by Center for Mindful Psychotherapy. My clients tend to be transgender, nonbinary, and/or queer adults of all neurotypes, as well as couples of various identities and orientations. I may be a good therapist for you if you are seeking support in deepening your sense of agency, better understanding your embodied experiences, navigating life transitions, and/or recognizing and shifting behavior patterns, narratives, and impulses. I can also support you with managing anxious, dissociative, and/or depressive symptoms. I am here to support you towards living a more fulfilled life.
I am a trans woman and somatic therapist employed by Center for Mindful Psychotherapy. My clients tend to be transgender, nonbinary, and/or queer adults of all neurotypes, as well as couples of various identities and orientations. I may be a good therapist for you if you are seeking support in deepening your sense of agency, better understanding your embodied experiences, navigating life transitions, and/or recognizing and shifting behavior patterns, narratives, and impulses. I can also support you with managing anxious, dissociative, and/or depressive symptoms. I am here to support you towards living a more fulfilled life.
(415) 532-3379 View (415) 532-3379
Photo of Estella Violet, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Carmel Valley, CA
Estella Violet
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I work with folks dealing with a variety of life challenges including anxiety, depression, shame, gender dysphoria, trauma, and low self-esteem. My clinical focus is working with members of the queer community, and I am particularly interested in working with transgender and gender non-conforming adults and adolescents and their families as well as individuals and partners involved in polyamorous and non-monogamous relationships. Therapy is a space for healing, but I believe that it is equally important that we center joy, growth, and resilience in this work as well.
I work with folks dealing with a variety of life challenges including anxiety, depression, shame, gender dysphoria, trauma, and low self-esteem. My clinical focus is working with members of the queer community, and I am particularly interested in working with transgender and gender non-conforming adults and adolescents and their families as well as individuals and partners involved in polyamorous and non-monogamous relationships. Therapy is a space for healing, but I believe that it is equally important that we center joy, growth, and resilience in this work as well.
(415) 610-4989 View (415) 610-4989
Photo of Frankie Phipps, Pre-Licensed Professional in Carmel Valley, CA
Frankie Phipps
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting clients for individual therapy, as well as for a DBT skills group for transgender and nonbinary adults.
Counseling, to me, is a collaborative space where clients are empowered to explore, find their own path, and work towards their goals. I’m a queer, neurodiverse counselor, and while I am especially passionate about discussing gender, sexuality, and neurodiversity with clients, I enjoy working on a variety of concerns with clients of any identity or experience. Therapy with me often includes building self-awareness, learning and practicing validation, and challenging oneself to make desired changes at a realistic pace.
I am currently accepting clients for individual therapy, as well as for a DBT skills group for transgender and nonbinary adults.
Counseling, to me, is a collaborative space where clients are empowered to explore, find their own path, and work towards their goals. I’m a queer, neurodiverse counselor, and while I am especially passionate about discussing gender, sexuality, and neurodiversity with clients, I enjoy working on a variety of concerns with clients of any identity or experience. Therapy with me often includes building self-awareness, learning and practicing validation, and challenging oneself to make desired changes at a realistic pace.
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Photo of Lark Nierenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel Valley, CA
Lark Nierenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a therapeutic focus on gender and sexuality, early trauma, and family and relationship dynamics. My approach is empathic, warm, and thoughtful. My clients often wish to understand their identities more deeply; seek support staying true to themselves in their relationships and community; and pursue healing and meaning-making following trauma. Through our work, you can develop new insights and coping skills to manage overwhelm, anxiety, depression, or life transitions. I'm particularly dedicated to working with queer, transgender, non-binary, and kink communities.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a therapeutic focus on gender and sexuality, early trauma, and family and relationship dynamics. My approach is empathic, warm, and thoughtful. My clients often wish to understand their identities more deeply; seek support staying true to themselves in their relationships and community; and pursue healing and meaning-making following trauma. Through our work, you can develop new insights and coping skills to manage overwhelm, anxiety, depression, or life transitions. I'm particularly dedicated to working with queer, transgender, non-binary, and kink communities.
(415) 851-8370 View (415) 851-8370
Photo of Irene Van, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel Valley, CA
Irene Van
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clara, CA 95050  (Online Only)
My services include but are not limited to supporting queer and transgender people, polyamorous people, and people of color.
At times, the weight of the world can be overwhelming. We may grow up believing that we are not enough and that we have to be perfect. We may have inherited messages from our family or from society that puts us down, especially if we come from a marginalized identity. This can make us feel hopeless or ungrounded and we may act out in ways that we aren't proud of.
My services include but are not limited to supporting queer and transgender people, polyamorous people, and people of color.
At times, the weight of the world can be overwhelming. We may grow up believing that we are not enough and that we have to be perfect. We may have inherited messages from our family or from society that puts us down, especially if we come from a marginalized identity. This can make us feel hopeless or ungrounded and we may act out in ways that we aren't proud of.
(408) 886-9939 View (408) 886-9939
Photo of Remi Bean, Licensed Professional Counselor in Carmel Valley, CA
Remi Bean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with transgender, non-binary, and queer clients who are exploring their gender and sexuality.
Do you want to be accepted just as you are rather than shamed or judged? Do you want a safe place to heal from trauma, explore your identity, or learn how to cope with stress? Therapy will give you the tools and resources to recover from trauma, resolve conflict and build intimacy in your relationships, develop effective communication skills, and manage anxiety. A safe therapeutic relationship will help you discover and articulate your authentic self, free of shame and guilt. Therapy can also help you unlearn harmful relationship patterns and be more kind to yourself. You are not alone!
I specialize in working with transgender, non-binary, and queer clients who are exploring their gender and sexuality.
Do you want to be accepted just as you are rather than shamed or judged? Do you want a safe place to heal from trauma, explore your identity, or learn how to cope with stress? Therapy will give you the tools and resources to recover from trauma, resolve conflict and build intimacy in your relationships, develop effective communication skills, and manage anxiety. A safe therapeutic relationship will help you discover and articulate your authentic self, free of shame and guilt. Therapy can also help you unlearn harmful relationship patterns and be more kind to yourself. You are not alone!
(510) 216-1873 View (510) 216-1873
Photo of Ask Alison Leigh, PHD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel Valley, CA
Ask Alison Leigh, PHD, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
The past 22 years I've seen an eclectic group of clientele: men, women & couples of any gender/orientation who want to improve their sexual lifestyle. I've helped men overcome ED through increasing their self confidence and women who want to feel more sexually in charge. I've seen over 25,000 couples throughout every stage of their relationship whether single, dating, married, or exploring and experimenting couples to ones who are curious how to stay together and keep the chemistry strong. My clients include stay at home moms, stressed out executives, artists, entrepreneurs & communities: LGBTQ, BDSM, & Transgender Families.
The past 22 years I've seen an eclectic group of clientele: men, women & couples of any gender/orientation who want to improve their sexual lifestyle. I've helped men overcome ED through increasing their self confidence and women who want to feel more sexually in charge. I've seen over 25,000 couples throughout every stage of their relationship whether single, dating, married, or exploring and experimenting couples to ones who are curious how to stay together and keep the chemistry strong. My clients include stay at home moms, stressed out executives, artists, entrepreneurs & communities: LGBTQ, BDSM, & Transgender Families.
(628) 226-1830 View (628) 226-1830
Photo of Jasper Cornelius Mather, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel Valley, CA
Jasper Cornelius Mather
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112
I am passionate about helping individuals in the transgender community navigate the unique challenges that come with gender identity and expression. As a transgender person myself, I understand firsthand the complexity of these issues and the importance of providing a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their identity. I believe that every person has the capacity to heal and grow, and I am committed to providing a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their identity, work through challenges, and build resilience. I also work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship issues.
I am passionate about helping individuals in the transgender community navigate the unique challenges that come with gender identity and expression. As a transgender person myself, I understand firsthand the complexity of these issues and the importance of providing a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their identity. I believe that every person has the capacity to heal and grow, and I am committed to providing a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their identity, work through challenges, and build resilience. I also work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship issues.
(415) 727-3423 View (415) 727-3423
Photo of Sam Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel Valley, CA
Sam Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
I am a trans Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with trans, queer, genderqueer, and gender-nonconforming teens and adults. I have a non-pathologizing approach and deeply value identities outside the "norm." I have fifteen years of experience as a mental health provider, including support groups with teens and adults, individual therapy, and crisis work. I am a Bay Area activist who has fought for transgender rights by organizing provider trainings and public demonstrations. I am a visual artist and storyteller who believes that underrepresented individuals expressing themselves creatively and authentically is powerful and important.
I am a trans Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with trans, queer, genderqueer, and gender-nonconforming teens and adults. I have a non-pathologizing approach and deeply value identities outside the "norm." I have fifteen years of experience as a mental health provider, including support groups with teens and adults, individual therapy, and crisis work. I am a Bay Area activist who has fought for transgender rights by organizing provider trainings and public demonstrations. I am a visual artist and storyteller who believes that underrepresented individuals expressing themselves creatively and authentically is powerful and important.
(781) 417-5129 View (781) 417-5129
Photo of Skye Nashelsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel Valley, CA
Skye Nashelsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
My expertise is with LGBTQIA+, especially transgender, nonbinary, and gender diverse folks, & BIPOC communities.
You have the capacity to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life! There are multiple forms and layers of oppression that impact our daily lives and self worth. I support clients in acknowledging and addressing shame, grief, trauma, and anxiety. I specialize in issues concerning gender, sexuality, intimacy, relationships, and identity. As your therapist, I act as a support working collaboratively alongside you to identify goals, action steps and interventions tailored specifically to your individual needs and identity.
My expertise is with LGBTQIA+, especially transgender, nonbinary, and gender diverse folks, & BIPOC communities.
You have the capacity to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life! There are multiple forms and layers of oppression that impact our daily lives and self worth. I support clients in acknowledging and addressing shame, grief, trauma, and anxiety. I specialize in issues concerning gender, sexuality, intimacy, relationships, and identity. As your therapist, I act as a support working collaboratively alongside you to identify goals, action steps and interventions tailored specifically to your individual needs and identity.
(510) 395-8008 View (510) 395-8008

See more therapy options for Carmel Valley

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.