Transgender Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Jacob Wangel-Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jacob Wangel-Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
I’m a trans and queer psychotherapist and World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Certified Member. I’m dedicated to providing safe, therapeutic space for transgender, gender expansive, queer, and questioning clients. As a dual-state licensed clinician in California and New York, my clinical practice, Trans Affirming Therapy serves to fill a critical need in creating competent, affirming, accessible care for our community and offers a warm environment to explore, process, and repair relationships within the self and with others. We’ll explore how your lived experience impacts your internal and external worlds.
I’m a trans and queer psychotherapist and World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Certified Member. I’m dedicated to providing safe, therapeutic space for transgender, gender expansive, queer, and questioning clients. As a dual-state licensed clinician in California and New York, my clinical practice, Trans Affirming Therapy serves to fill a critical need in creating competent, affirming, accessible care for our community and offers a warm environment to explore, process, and repair relationships within the self and with others. We’ll explore how your lived experience impacts your internal and external worlds.
(818) 431-2297 View (818) 431-2297
Photo of Fii Sperling, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Fii Sperling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90029
As a queer, trans, chronically ill therapist, my approach to therapy centers you as the expert in the room. I believe the wisdom in your lived experience will help us collaboratively create a healing space that supports you. Most of the people I work with inhabit identities resistant to social norms primarily adolescents and adults who are transgender, non-binary, polyamorous, and or neurodivergent. I also provide support to caregivers and family members of transgender youth and other LGBTQIA+ folks.
As a queer, trans, chronically ill therapist, my approach to therapy centers you as the expert in the room. I believe the wisdom in your lived experience will help us collaboratively create a healing space that supports you. Most of the people I work with inhabit identities resistant to social norms primarily adolescents and adults who are transgender, non-binary, polyamorous, and or neurodivergent. I also provide support to caregivers and family members of transgender youth and other LGBTQIA+ folks.
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Photo of Jordyn Olivia Serwin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Jordyn Olivia Serwin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
We all deserve to feel seen, included, and understood, no matter who we are. As an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, my aim is to help you better see yourself in all aspects of who you are, feel more included in relation to those around you, and experience a greater understanding of how you fit into a wider world. Maybe you’re exploring your non-binary gender for the first time. Maybe you’re supporting a transgender family member or partner. Maybe you’re working through relationship challenges as an LGBTQ+ person. Together, we can explore what “seen,” “included,” and “understood” mean for you and how you can achieve them.
We all deserve to feel seen, included, and understood, no matter who we are. As an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, my aim is to help you better see yourself in all aspects of who you are, feel more included in relation to those around you, and experience a greater understanding of how you fit into a wider world. Maybe you’re exploring your non-binary gender for the first time. Maybe you’re supporting a transgender family member or partner. Maybe you’re working through relationship challenges as an LGBTQ+ person. Together, we can explore what “seen,” “included,” and “understood” mean for you and how you can achieve them.
(747) 266-1265 View (747) 266-1265
Photo of Sarah Peace, Licensed Professional Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Sarah Peace
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048
I have specialized training in ecotherapy & psychedelic-assisted therapy, Gestalt therapy, and transgender affirming therapy.
I believe there is opportunity for healing within the suffering we experience. Psychotherapy can be a way to turn directly toward what is happening for you and engage with how it impacts you. It is in this looking that growth and change happens, using awareness in the present moment as a way to help you understand and release the pains of the past, fears of the future, and limiting old beliefs. Together, we can support you to discover, reconnect to, use and understand your own skills and strengths. I love working with adults from diverse backgrounds who are wanting to make a change in their lives, communities, and our world.
I have specialized training in ecotherapy & psychedelic-assisted therapy, Gestalt therapy, and transgender affirming therapy.
I believe there is opportunity for healing within the suffering we experience. Psychotherapy can be a way to turn directly toward what is happening for you and engage with how it impacts you. It is in this looking that growth and change happens, using awareness in the present moment as a way to help you understand and release the pains of the past, fears of the future, and limiting old beliefs. Together, we can support you to discover, reconnect to, use and understand your own skills and strengths. I love working with adults from diverse backgrounds who are wanting to make a change in their lives, communities, and our world.
(310) 359-0316 View (310) 359-0316
Photo of Kel Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Kel Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MCP, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90012  (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 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 Lou Bigelow, Registered Psychological Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Lou Bigelow
Registered Psychological Associate
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I work with transgender, non-binary, LGBTQ+ people, and others who struggle with anxiety, supporting you to develop satisfying relationships, greater confidence and a sense of belonging. In a world without adequate role models or people who mirror our self-expression, we often feel like we don’t fit in, we’re not enough, or we’re too much. Anxious thoughts about lack of acceptance can be overwhelming and isolating. Therapy with me offers space to realign with your deepest self and who you want to be in your relationships. I will work collaboratively with you to understand your challenges and connect to the wisdom within.
I work with transgender, non-binary, LGBTQ+ people, and others who struggle with anxiety, supporting you to develop satisfying relationships, greater confidence and a sense of belonging. In a world without adequate role models or people who mirror our self-expression, we often feel like we don’t fit in, we’re not enough, or we’re too much. Anxious thoughts about lack of acceptance can be overwhelming and isolating. Therapy with me offers space to realign with your deepest self and who you want to be in your relationships. I will work collaboratively with you to understand your challenges and connect to the wisdom within.
(213) 973-8386 View (213) 973-8386
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 Ezak Marquez, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Ezak Marquez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (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. I utilize a social justice and intersectional framework in acknowledging the systemic oppression affecting BIPOC communities and its impact on mental health.
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. I utilize a social justice and intersectional framework in acknowledging the systemic oppression affecting BIPOC communities and its impact on mental health.
(424) 361-6256 View (424) 361-6256
Photo of Robyn Harrod, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Robyn Harrod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Another specialized focus of mine is providing therapy and support to transgender and non-binary children, adolescents, and adults during any part(s) of their transition.
I have been a practicing LCSW in Los Angeles for close to 30 years. My expertise is in infertility and reproductive counseling and in the field of family building. My goal is to help individuals and couples cope with the challenges of infertility and explore alternative family building options including surrogacy, egg, sperm, or embryo donation, foster care, & adoption. The decision to start your family through alternative means can be one of the most challenging, as well as rewarding experiences in your life. With personal and professional experience, I provide support and compassion, calming the journey's inevitable stresses.
Another specialized focus of mine is providing therapy and support to transgender and non-binary children, adolescents, and adults during any part(s) of their transition.
I have been a practicing LCSW in Los Angeles for close to 30 years. My expertise is in infertility and reproductive counseling and in the field of family building. My goal is to help individuals and couples cope with the challenges of infertility and explore alternative family building options including surrogacy, egg, sperm, or embryo donation, foster care, & adoption. The decision to start your family through alternative means can be one of the most challenging, as well as rewarding experiences in your life. With personal and professional experience, I provide support and compassion, calming the journey's inevitable stresses.
(213) 699-4550 View (213) 699-4550
Photo of Adryan Caron, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Adryan Caron
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
I have specialized training with the LGBTQ+, Transgender, Gender Non-Confirming and Queer community, and have a passion for helping these individuals thrive as in our often complex world.
My focus as a practitioner is to help you connect with your authentic self, attune to your values and needs, and learn practical tools to improve your quality of life. With over 10 years of experience serving a diverse range of individuals, I provide a therapy experience that is warm, empowering, and puts your goals at the forefront of care. I specialize in trauma-informed, attachment-focused therapy, with an emphasis on cultural humility, honoring the brain/body connection, and holistic wellness. If you are ready to heal from within, then I am here to act as your ally in that process.
I have specialized training with the LGBTQ+, Transgender, Gender Non-Confirming and Queer community, and have a passion for helping these individuals thrive as in our often complex world.
My focus as a practitioner is to help you connect with your authentic self, attune to your values and needs, and learn practical tools to improve your quality of life. With over 10 years of experience serving a diverse range of individuals, I provide a therapy experience that is warm, empowering, and puts your goals at the forefront of care. I specialize in trauma-informed, attachment-focused therapy, with an emphasis on cultural humility, honoring the brain/body connection, and holistic wellness. If you are ready to heal from within, then I am here to act as your ally in that process.
(310) 868-0983 View (310) 868-0983
Photo of Dr. Luke Allen, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Luke Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90029  (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.
(341) 895-5594 View (341) 895-5594
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 Jen Leong, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jen Leong
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90014  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Most of the people I work with are told they need to be different than they are. Sometimes they get that message explicitly, always they get that message in the way people treat them. Therapy with me doesn’t aim to make you different. We’ll work to help you navigate the world while being healthy and fully you. Specific issues my clients are navigating include: being neurodivergent (mostly autistic and ADHD), being transgender or outside the gender binary, being non-monogamous, or being deep in grief.
Most of the people I work with are told they need to be different than they are. Sometimes they get that message explicitly, always they get that message in the way people treat them. Therapy with me doesn’t aim to make you different. We’ll work to help you navigate the world while being healthy and fully you. Specific issues my clients are navigating include: being neurodivergent (mostly autistic and ADHD), being transgender or outside the gender binary, being non-monogamous, or being deep in grief.
(424) 361-1015 View (424) 361-1015
Photo of Catherine Forbes, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Catherine Forbes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, trauma-informed, and gender affirming interventions, with specialized training in CBT, transgender health, and trauma.
Stress, depression, anxiety, traumas, family issues, identity concerns - so many of us of all ages face these and many other challenges. Are you hoping to reduce your distress and increase your engagement in life and experience of joy? Would you like more satisfying, healthy relationships? Looking for support through your gender journey and access to needed affirming medical services? Your experiences are valid and you matter. Positive change is possible.
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, trauma-informed, and gender affirming interventions, with specialized training in CBT, transgender health, and trauma.
Stress, depression, anxiety, traumas, family issues, identity concerns - so many of us of all ages face these and many other challenges. Are you hoping to reduce your distress and increase your engagement in life and experience of joy? Would you like more satisfying, healthy relationships? Looking for support through your gender journey and access to needed affirming medical services? Your experiences are valid and you matter. Positive change is possible.
(833) 691-5541 View (833) 691-5541
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 Xtine Milrod, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Xtine Milrod
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AASECT, CST, WPATH
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90069
I also work with transgender issues and sex work/sex industry issues, both on behalf of clients and sex workers.
I work with individuals or couples of any gender or orientation who seek help for sexual relationship issues. These issues are not limited to, but include arousal and orgasm, sexual desire, compulsive sexual behavior, masturbation issues, premature or delayed ejaculation, pain during sexual activity and psychological issues around monogamy, infidelity, boredom and wanting a change in one's sexual repertoire. The goal is often increased eroticism, heightened intimacy, and decreased anxiety during sex. My aim is for you to overcome the problems that result from negative feelings and behaviors and to achieve your full sexual potential.
I also work with transgender issues and sex work/sex industry issues, both on behalf of clients and sex workers.
I work with individuals or couples of any gender or orientation who seek help for sexual relationship issues. These issues are not limited to, but include arousal and orgasm, sexual desire, compulsive sexual behavior, masturbation issues, premature or delayed ejaculation, pain during sexual activity and psychological issues around monogamy, infidelity, boredom and wanting a change in one's sexual repertoire. The goal is often increased eroticism, heightened intimacy, and decreased anxiety during sex. My aim is for you to overcome the problems that result from negative feelings and behaviors and to achieve your full sexual potential.
(310) 776-6069 View (310) 776-6069
Photo of Desiree Tamjidi, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Desiree Tamjidi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I believe in facilitating patients’ understanding of themselves while using a strength based approach. My approach to therapy is naturally warm and compassionate. And I believe that inclusivity, cultural competency and patient’s empowerment are integral aspects of psychotherapy. My experience is in treating depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder and personality disorders, grief, acculturation issues, life transitions and identity development. In addition, specialize in working with patients who identify as transgender, gender fluid and LGBTQIA community.
I believe in facilitating patients’ understanding of themselves while using a strength based approach. My approach to therapy is naturally warm and compassionate. And I believe that inclusivity, cultural competency and patient’s empowerment are integral aspects of psychotherapy. My experience is in treating depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder and personality disorders, grief, acculturation issues, life transitions and identity development. In addition, specialize in working with patients who identify as transgender, gender fluid and LGBTQIA community.
(747) 201-7413 View (747) 201-7413
Photo of Caroline Carter, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Caroline Carter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Having a transgender or gender nonbinary child is a wonderful gift, but it comes with a unique journey for both child and parent. Support is not only essential, but a gem of the journey! Possibly your child has expressed feeling that they are another gender and you are unsure about what to do next. Maybe your child is already living as their authentic gender, but they are showing signs of insecurity or distress around their body. Or possibly, puberty is approaching, and your child’s doctor has recommended therapy as they prepare for puberty suppression. I seek to provide guidance and support through stretches such as these.
Having a transgender or gender nonbinary child is a wonderful gift, but it comes with a unique journey for both child and parent. Support is not only essential, but a gem of the journey! Possibly your child has expressed feeling that they are another gender and you are unsure about what to do next. Maybe your child is already living as their authentic gender, but they are showing signs of insecurity or distress around their body. Or possibly, puberty is approaching, and your child’s doctor has recommended therapy as they prepare for puberty suppression. I seek to provide guidance and support through stretches such as these.
(626) 502-6537 View (626) 502-6537
Photo of Sheila Ali, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA
Sheila Ali
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I focus on areas of traumatic events- abuse, chronic illness, death, divorce, disaster and war- complex cultural family problems and gender dysphoria, transition, GCS.
I continue to feel humbled by the power of therapy. Therapy will heal your pain. But it will not just relieve your suffering, a strong client-therapist fit will allow you to bear witness to the strength that comes from the courage of confronting the vulnerability within ourselves. Looking for a therapist should feel like buying a car- it needs to feel right, cost right and look right. Because that feeling of trust and safety is crucial to creating a space of brutal honesty as you begin to identify and explore your conscious and unconscious obstacles to equip yourself with the emotional tools and healing you seek.
I focus on areas of traumatic events- abuse, chronic illness, death, divorce, disaster and war- complex cultural family problems and gender dysphoria, transition, GCS.
I continue to feel humbled by the power of therapy. Therapy will heal your pain. But it will not just relieve your suffering, a strong client-therapist fit will allow you to bear witness to the strength that comes from the courage of confronting the vulnerability within ourselves. Looking for a therapist should feel like buying a car- it needs to feel right, cost right and look right. Because that feeling of trust and safety is crucial to creating a space of brutal honesty as you begin to identify and explore your conscious and unconscious obstacles to equip yourself with the emotional tools and healing you seek.
(925) 965-7775 View (925) 965-7775

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.