Photo of Ezak Marquez, Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Ezak Marquez
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
(619) 329-9950 View (619) 329-9950
Photo of Sarah McGrew, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sarah McGrew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90016  (Online Only)
I've worked extensively with non-binary, transgender and gender expansive folks in navigating stressors they may experience in today's world.
You are the expert on your life and I believe that therapy is most helpful when it provides a safe space for you to be vulnerable and gain insight into what is not working for you and how to change it. I am transparent and warm and will approach you with compassion, humor, and openness. I'm an expert in trauma treatment with over 10 years working with people in all stages of the life cycle who have experienced traumatic events as well as anxiety, depression, anger, interpersonal and relational issues, life transitions, and parent-child and family conflict.
I've worked extensively with non-binary, transgender and gender expansive folks in navigating stressors they may experience in today's world.
You are the expert on your life and I believe that therapy is most helpful when it provides a safe space for you to be vulnerable and gain insight into what is not working for you and how to change it. I am transparent and warm and will approach you with compassion, humor, and openness. I'm an expert in trauma treatment with over 10 years working with people in all stages of the life cycle who have experienced traumatic events as well as anxiety, depression, anger, interpersonal and relational issues, life transitions, and parent-child and family conflict.
(310) 818-7156 View (310) 818-7156
Photo of Casey Weitzman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Casey Weitzman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
At the core of my practice, Gender Wellness of Los Angeles (GWLA), I provide counseling for the transgender & non-binary community and their families.
Welcome to my practice, where I've dedicated over 30 years supporting individuals navigating the complexities of gender and sexual identity. Today, our world has expanded to include a beautiful spectrum of gender-diverse experiences. I embrace a holistic approach that goes beyond traditional binaries of Male-to-Female (MtF) and Female-to-Male (FtM) transitions. Whether you resonate with terms like "trans," "non-binary," or use your own unique identifier, I'm here to walk alongside you. Everyone's path is uniquely challenging, and self-acceptance is the compass guiding us forward.
At the core of my practice, Gender Wellness of Los Angeles (GWLA), I provide counseling for the transgender & non-binary community and their families.
Welcome to my practice, where I've dedicated over 30 years supporting individuals navigating the complexities of gender and sexual identity. Today, our world has expanded to include a beautiful spectrum of gender-diverse experiences. I embrace a holistic approach that goes beyond traditional binaries of Male-to-Female (MtF) and Female-to-Male (FtM) transitions. Whether you resonate with terms like "trans," "non-binary," or use your own unique identifier, I'm here to walk alongside you. Everyone's path is uniquely challenging, and self-acceptance is the compass guiding us forward.
(310) 895-9205 View (310) 895-9205
Photo of Kimberly Dawn Kabar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kimberly Dawn Kabar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, KAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90005  (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 Kai Lewis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kai Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90038
I am a queer transgender therapist with client experience across all LGBTQ identities.
Perhaps you are brand new to therapy, or returning for better results. Maybe you are looking for a therapist that relates to the LGBTQ+ identities/experiences you have, and how those may affect other areas of your life. You're looking for a space to be authentic and explore complex parts of who you are in a safe, affirming space. You might be experiencing anxiety, depression, confusion, or other barriers to your well-being. My priority is inviting you to share who you are so we can create positive outcomes. I combine evidence-based practices with real-world application, placing your experiences at the forefront of therapy.
I am a queer transgender therapist with client experience across all LGBTQ identities.
Perhaps you are brand new to therapy, or returning for better results. Maybe you are looking for a therapist that relates to the LGBTQ+ identities/experiences you have, and how those may affect other areas of your life. You're looking for a space to be authentic and explore complex parts of who you are in a safe, affirming space. You might be experiencing anxiety, depression, confusion, or other barriers to your well-being. My priority is inviting you to share who you are so we can create positive outcomes. I combine evidence-based practices with real-world application, placing your experiences at the forefront of therapy.
(657) 214-4460 View (657) 214-4460
Photo of Jared Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jared Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in trauma (EMDR, somatic, IFS), structural dissociation/DID, sex and love addiction, LGBTQ+, transgender/non-binary identity, and autism.
I help professionals in film/TV, academia, design, & corporate heal from trauma. You may excel in some areas while quietly suffering anxiety, depression (stuck/lost), and relationship pain. A past with abuse/neglect, emotional disconnect can result in a mix of both thriving and overactive survival instincts. I provide a warm judgment-free space, strict confidentiality, modern research-based techniques, and 25 years of mental health experience. I offer EMDR, IFS (parts work), Somatic Experiencing, and psychedelic therapy. I also specialize in work with the ASD (autism), DID/DDNOS, & LGBTQ+ communities.
I have specialized training in trauma (EMDR, somatic, IFS), structural dissociation/DID, sex and love addiction, LGBTQ+, transgender/non-binary identity, and autism.
I help professionals in film/TV, academia, design, & corporate heal from trauma. You may excel in some areas while quietly suffering anxiety, depression (stuck/lost), and relationship pain. A past with abuse/neglect, emotional disconnect can result in a mix of both thriving and overactive survival instincts. I provide a warm judgment-free space, strict confidentiality, modern research-based techniques, and 25 years of mental health experience. I offer EMDR, IFS (parts work), Somatic Experiencing, and psychedelic therapy. I also specialize in work with the ASD (autism), DID/DDNOS, & LGBTQ+ communities.
(213) 372-0180 View (213) 372-0180
Photo of Rachel Abroms, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Rachel Abroms
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CADC-I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I also have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ community and in particular those who identify as transgender.
People are complex and life can be very challenging. The way we process and live our lives, especially the way in which we respond to life's difficult challenges, is often informed by painful experiences from our past, and unresolved issues. I will help you find the inner resources you need to recover, understand yourself better, and create the changes that will improve your well being. We all have the potential to heal, grow, and be successful in our lives. It is this potential that provides hope for all of us to overcome pain and adversity.
I also have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ community and in particular those who identify as transgender.
People are complex and life can be very challenging. The way we process and live our lives, especially the way in which we respond to life's difficult challenges, is often informed by painful experiences from our past, and unresolved issues. I will help you find the inner resources you need to recover, understand yourself better, and create the changes that will improve your well being. We all have the potential to heal, grow, and be successful in our lives. It is this potential that provides hope for all of us to overcome pain and adversity.
(323) 203-0901 View (323) 203-0901
Photo of Claudia Narvaez-Meza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Claudia Narvaez-Meza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Much of her early work was in community mental health and social justice, serving as a trauma clinician for children in foster care and facilitating support groups for transgender youth.
Claudia is an EMDR certified bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW 83703) who is licensed to practice in New York and California. She has over 15 years of experience working with individuals of all ages, couples, and families. Claudia specializes in trauma recovery, family systems and relationship issues, fertility concerns, substance abuse and recovery, sexual and gender identity, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and migration and acculturation challenges. Claudia collaborates with the client in curating a space that nurtures self-resiliency, strength, and embraces complexity with renewed care and compassion.
Much of her early work was in community mental health and social justice, serving as a trauma clinician for children in foster care and facilitating support groups for transgender youth.
Claudia is an EMDR certified bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW 83703) who is licensed to practice in New York and California. She has over 15 years of experience working with individuals of all ages, couples, and families. Claudia specializes in trauma recovery, family systems and relationship issues, fertility concerns, substance abuse and recovery, sexual and gender identity, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and migration and acculturation challenges. Claudia collaborates with the client in curating a space that nurtures self-resiliency, strength, and embraces complexity with renewed care and compassion.
(213) 674-6184 View (213) 674-6184
Photo of April Mollner (Blanchette), Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
April Mollner (Blanchette)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010  (Online Only)
April Mollner is currently accepting new clients in her private practice and tele-therapy. As nationally-recognized anti-bullying advocate and keynote speaker at psychological conferences in the country she specializes in trauma, affirmative therapy, addiction & recovery. April is also known for her work with transgender youth in Hollywood & leading therapy in marginalized populations. Life stories are sometimes saturated in trauma, her hope is to help find positive narratives that assist peoples healing through their resilience. Her dedication to 'lived in experiences' bridges new beginnings through a journey of strengths.
April Mollner is currently accepting new clients in her private practice and tele-therapy. As nationally-recognized anti-bullying advocate and keynote speaker at psychological conferences in the country she specializes in trauma, affirmative therapy, addiction & recovery. April is also known for her work with transgender youth in Hollywood & leading therapy in marginalized populations. Life stories are sometimes saturated in trauma, her hope is to help find positive narratives that assist peoples healing through their resilience. Her dedication to 'lived in experiences' bridges new beginnings through a journey of strengths.
(323) 672-4191 View (323) 672-4191
Photo of Cary Frank Schwimmer, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Cary Frank Schwimmer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Testing/evaluation for pre-treatment transgender.
I have over 30 years of experience in working with adults. I am an expert in the treatment of anxiety and depression. If I am not in your insurance network I can still work with you. I will help you to get reimbursement. I have a wide range of knowledge about anxiety, depression, OCD, panic disorder, addictions, fears, relationship issues, PTSD, phobias and family issues. One Specialty: Childhood and Adult Trauma. I believe that the exploration of your life helps us to understand who you are today. 20 years of experience with EMDR. Neurofeedback for anxiety, ADHD, brain fog, TBI, depression, concussion and a range of other issues.
Testing/evaluation for pre-treatment transgender.
I have over 30 years of experience in working with adults. I am an expert in the treatment of anxiety and depression. If I am not in your insurance network I can still work with you. I will help you to get reimbursement. I have a wide range of knowledge about anxiety, depression, OCD, panic disorder, addictions, fears, relationship issues, PTSD, phobias and family issues. One Specialty: Childhood and Adult Trauma. I believe that the exploration of your life helps us to understand who you are today. 20 years of experience with EMDR. Neurofeedback for anxiety, ADHD, brain fog, TBI, depression, concussion and a range of other issues.
(954) 874-8417 View (954) 874-8417
Photo of Elexia Estrada, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Elexia Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90001
Looking for a therapist that is a part of the LBGTQ+ community? Do you want treatment that explores your concerns? I provide treatment that validates you and advocates for your needs. As a member of the LGBT+ community, I am passionate about my work. I also have a special interest in working with people that practice indigenous healing, Paganism, New Age practices, and Spiritualism.
Looking for a therapist that is a part of the LBGTQ+ community? Do you want treatment that explores your concerns? I provide treatment that validates you and advocates for your needs. As a member of the LGBT+ community, I am passionate about my work. I also have a special interest in working with people that practice indigenous healing, Paganism, New Age practices, and Spiritualism.
(805) 519-8293 View (805) 519-8293
Photo of Janet Upjohn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Janet Upjohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
My approach is relational and strengths based. During my 25 years of practice I have supported clients confronting various forms of distress including anxiety, depression, childhood trauma and substance abuse. I have worked with families and individuals and have specific training and interest in supporting gender nonconforming adults, youth and their families.
My approach is relational and strengths based. During my 25 years of practice I have supported clients confronting various forms of distress including anxiety, depression, childhood trauma and substance abuse. I have worked with families and individuals and have specific training and interest in supporting gender nonconforming adults, youth and their families.
(213) 652-5637 View (213) 652-5637
Photo of Erica M Folinsky (Theyshe), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Erica M Folinsky (Theyshe)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CCMHIMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We live in a hectic and chaotic world. Sometimes the tools we have just stop cutting it. Everything is suddenly a struggle. You may have been to a bunch of therapists and it didn't work. You may never have been to therapy and you just want to figure out how to feel better. You’re not alone, you’re not “crazy”. I can help. I'm a non binary, queer, AuDHD clinician who practices from a sex positive, trauma informed perspective and comes with an impressive list of trainings and certifications, but more importantly, I'm a regular human who's here to connect with you on a genuine and authentic level.
We live in a hectic and chaotic world. Sometimes the tools we have just stop cutting it. Everything is suddenly a struggle. You may have been to a bunch of therapists and it didn't work. You may never have been to therapy and you just want to figure out how to feel better. You’re not alone, you’re not “crazy”. I can help. I'm a non binary, queer, AuDHD clinician who practices from a sex positive, trauma informed perspective and comes with an impressive list of trainings and certifications, but more importantly, I'm a regular human who's here to connect with you on a genuine and authentic level.
(323) 210-3673 View (323) 210-3673
Photo of Lisette R Lahana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Lisette R Lahana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Welcome! I understand the challenges of finding the right therapist. My aim is to provide a sanctuary where we address your concerns from a holistic perspective.My practice is tailored for individuals who identify as queer, trans, non-binary, or are exploring gender and/or sexuality. Embracing a trauma-informed approach, I acknowledge the experiences you've endured and can support your journey toward healing.With over two decades of experience, I specialize in mood condition like Bipolar Disorder. Whether it's navigating identity or focusing on other essential aspects of your life such as relationships or career, I'm here to help.
Welcome! I understand the challenges of finding the right therapist. My aim is to provide a sanctuary where we address your concerns from a holistic perspective.My practice is tailored for individuals who identify as queer, trans, non-binary, or are exploring gender and/or sexuality. Embracing a trauma-informed approach, I acknowledge the experiences you've endured and can support your journey toward healing.With over two decades of experience, I specialize in mood condition like Bipolar Disorder. Whether it's navigating identity or focusing on other essential aspects of your life such as relationships or career, I'm here to help.
(510) 915-4795 View (510) 915-4795
Photo of Toby Barron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Toby Barron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I honestly love my work. Working in LGBTQ+ mental health since 2013, I get to support clients with many different needs. A lot of my work focuses on: gender identity, medical and social gender transition, gender-affirming surgery prep & letters, coming out, self-esteem, HIV/AIDS, nonmonogamy, kink, stigma, discrimination, and building healthy relationships. My liberation-focused framework is collaborative, affirming, and intersectional. Beyond queer-specific issues, my focus also includes EMDR, trauma recovery, PTSD, ADHD, autism, neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, & recovery from unhealthy/narcissistic relationships.
I honestly love my work. Working in LGBTQ+ mental health since 2013, I get to support clients with many different needs. A lot of my work focuses on: gender identity, medical and social gender transition, gender-affirming surgery prep & letters, coming out, self-esteem, HIV/AIDS, nonmonogamy, kink, stigma, discrimination, and building healthy relationships. My liberation-focused framework is collaborative, affirming, and intersectional. Beyond queer-specific issues, my focus also includes EMDR, trauma recovery, PTSD, ADHD, autism, neurodiversity, depression, anxiety, & recovery from unhealthy/narcissistic relationships.
(213) 861-4796 View (213) 861-4796
Photo of Shelby DeBord, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Shelby DeBord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90005  (Online Only)
Trauma may constantly have you second guess your own judgement or being able to feel confident using your voice. Trauma can make you feel as though you want to hide from your life and that doing simple things every day is like trying to carry around a 1000 pound weight. Trauma may also be impacting your relationships through self sabotage. If you are stuck in repeated cycles in your own mind, lack confidence, feel like no one understands you or have been manipulated-you are safe here. You deserve to feel empowered, loved & respected. Together we can work to redevelop the relationship you have with yourself and your life.
Trauma may constantly have you second guess your own judgement or being able to feel confident using your voice. Trauma can make you feel as though you want to hide from your life and that doing simple things every day is like trying to carry around a 1000 pound weight. Trauma may also be impacting your relationships through self sabotage. If you are stuck in repeated cycles in your own mind, lack confidence, feel like no one understands you or have been manipulated-you are safe here. You deserve to feel empowered, loved & respected. Together we can work to redevelop the relationship you have with yourself and your life.
(442) 239-4715 View (442) 239-4715
Photo of Aba Horthy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Aba Horthy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I am a queer multicultural nonbinary AuDHD therapist who creates a nonjudgemental space for their clients. I mainly focus on the trans and nonbinary experience, complex trauma, chronic/terminal illnesses, ADHD/autism and grief/loss. I have clinical and personal experiences regarding my specializations. I have a deep capacity for working with trauma & supporting clients who think their story is “too heavy” for others to bear. I am really good at helping you (re)connect with who you are, who you want to be & figuring out how self-care looks like for you. Whatever we work on, I will create a safe environment and affirm your experience.
I am a queer multicultural nonbinary AuDHD therapist who creates a nonjudgemental space for their clients. I mainly focus on the trans and nonbinary experience, complex trauma, chronic/terminal illnesses, ADHD/autism and grief/loss. I have clinical and personal experiences regarding my specializations. I have a deep capacity for working with trauma & supporting clients who think their story is “too heavy” for others to bear. I am really good at helping you (re)connect with who you are, who you want to be & figuring out how self-care looks like for you. Whatever we work on, I will create a safe environment and affirm your experience.
(310) 564-1408 View (310) 564-1408
Photo of Finley Woodmansee, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Finley Woodmansee
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
No matter where you are in your journey, I am here for you with judgement-free, support. Whether you have a specific goal or just feel lost and don’t know what you need yet, we can start wherever you are. I am comfortable sitting with you in your darkest spaces, celebrating your victories, sifting through overwhelm when everything feels like chaos, and everything in-between. As a transmasculine and autistic person, I deeply understand the importance of creating a safe and affirming space to explore your identity and navigate life's complexities. Together, we can find what works best for you, no matter what that looks like.
No matter where you are in your journey, I am here for you with judgement-free, support. Whether you have a specific goal or just feel lost and don’t know what you need yet, we can start wherever you are. I am comfortable sitting with you in your darkest spaces, celebrating your victories, sifting through overwhelm when everything feels like chaos, and everything in-between. As a transmasculine and autistic person, I deeply understand the importance of creating a safe and affirming space to explore your identity and navigate life's complexities. Together, we can find what works best for you, no matter what that looks like.
(818) 873-3810 View (818) 873-3810
Photo of Lyndsey Doolen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Lyndsey Doolen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I'm a therapist because therapy saved my life. Through that lived experience, and with education and training, I help clients improve their relationship with themselves and others, and navigate issues related to trauma, gender, sexuality, ENM, dating, boundaries, and self-worth. My clients are thoughtful people who have done the best they can on their own and are looking for additional support. They seek to expand their perspective, to feel differently in the world, and want lasting change. Together we'll create that change and I firmly believe in your inherent worth, power, and self-determination to facilitate the shift you seek.
I'm a therapist because therapy saved my life. Through that lived experience, and with education and training, I help clients improve their relationship with themselves and others, and navigate issues related to trauma, gender, sexuality, ENM, dating, boundaries, and self-worth. My clients are thoughtful people who have done the best they can on their own and are looking for additional support. They seek to expand their perspective, to feel differently in the world, and want lasting change. Together we'll create that change and I firmly believe in your inherent worth, power, and self-determination to facilitate the shift you seek.
View
Photo of Clarity Family Therapy Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Clarity Family Therapy Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? We offer therapy to help with many issues including stress, relationship issues, or deep trauma through our EMDR Treatments. We offer a safe space both telehealth and in person to process what you are struggling with and improve your life. Our group specializes in creating healthy relationships, working through anxiety, depression, getting "unstuck," working through addictions, and healing from trauma.
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? We offer therapy to help with many issues including stress, relationship issues, or deep trauma through our EMDR Treatments. We offer a safe space both telehealth and in person to process what you are struggling with and improve your life. Our group specializes in creating healthy relationships, working through anxiety, depression, getting "unstuck," working through addictions, and healing from trauma.
(818) 495-8986 View (818) 495-8986

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.