Photo of Ezak Marquez, Counselor in San Diego, CA
Ezak Marquez
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117  (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 Pamuela Halliwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Pamuela Halliwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Waitlist for new clients
I am a transgender therapist embarking on my own personal journey to transitioning.
I think we all can have a time in our lives where we reach a problem or a series of problems and are faced with the question of "how do I get through this?" or "what should I do?" Regardless of what brought you to that crossroad, therapy is a useful means to help you figure out what to do next. Your time is important and your life is meant to be full of happiness. We all are transitioning from something and have to make the choice about what is best for us. Live your life and enjoy it.
I am a transgender therapist embarking on my own personal journey to transitioning.
I think we all can have a time in our lives where we reach a problem or a series of problems and are faced with the question of "how do I get through this?" or "what should I do?" Regardless of what brought you to that crossroad, therapy is a useful means to help you figure out what to do next. Your time is important and your life is meant to be full of happiness. We all are transitioning from something and have to make the choice about what is best for us. Live your life and enjoy it.
(619) 389-3124 View (619) 389-3124
Photo of Zaire Flowers, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Diego, CA
Zaire Flowers
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116  (Online Only)
As a transgender, black, and openly queer therapist, I have the skills and experience to help you reach your true potential.
Are you a Black, Queer, Trans, or differently-abled person ready to live authentically with no regrets? I'll help you build the confidence and self-love that will get you there. Discover a life where self-expression thrives and empowerment reigns! I help people of all genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions overcome their internalized oppression and step into a better future. Learn how to eliminate the emotional obstacles that are blocking the path to your best life. Discover delight, balance, and confidence in your own skin. Change the way you live and experience the life that is rightfully yours!
As a transgender, black, and openly queer therapist, I have the skills and experience to help you reach your true potential.
Are you a Black, Queer, Trans, or differently-abled person ready to live authentically with no regrets? I'll help you build the confidence and self-love that will get you there. Discover a life where self-expression thrives and empowerment reigns! I help people of all genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions overcome their internalized oppression and step into a better future. Learn how to eliminate the emotional obstacles that are blocking the path to your best life. Discover delight, balance, and confidence in your own skin. Change the way you live and experience the life that is rightfully yours!
(858) 263-0674 x8 View (858) 263-0674 x8
Photo of Adrian Belmes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Adrian Belmes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
If you are searching for support and hope, you’re in the right place. My name is Adrian (he/him), and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with transgender, gender non-conforming, and queer adults and adolescents. My practice is centered on supporting individuals facing questions of gender exploration, sexuality, identity formation, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict.
If you are searching for support and hope, you’re in the right place. My name is Adrian (he/him), and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with transgender, gender non-conforming, and queer adults and adolescents. My practice is centered on supporting individuals facing questions of gender exploration, sexuality, identity formation, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict.
(760) 477-4865 View (760) 477-4865
Photo of Jordan D Danly, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Jordan D Danly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I provide comprehensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for adults and adolescents with difficulty regulating emotions, maintaining healthy and close relationships, and tolerating distress. I have experience and training working with those who have thoughts or urges for suicide and self harm. I want to help you build the life you have always desired! I am also a trained Gender Therapist and enjoy working with gender-expansive and transgender youth and adults seeking support for their gender identity and/or transition process. In addition, I am a Level 2 Gottman trained Couples Therapist.
I provide comprehensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for adults and adolescents with difficulty regulating emotions, maintaining healthy and close relationships, and tolerating distress. I have experience and training working with those who have thoughts or urges for suicide and self harm. I want to help you build the life you have always desired! I am also a trained Gender Therapist and enjoy working with gender-expansive and transgender youth and adults seeking support for their gender identity and/or transition process. In addition, I am a Level 2 Gottman trained Couples Therapist.
(858) 252-0503 View (858) 252-0503
Photo of Kwilanzo Amitai-Crawford, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Kwilanzo Amitai-Crawford
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist registered with the California Behavioral Board of Science and a transgender retired combat vet.
Have you ever felt invisible? Even to the people who matter to you most? Are you interested in making a change in your life? Or finding/creating the new you? I believe that we are all on our own heroic journey in search of our own unique calling. My passion is to assist you in your journey to add definition to your life.
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist registered with the California Behavioral Board of Science and a transgender retired combat vet.
Have you ever felt invisible? Even to the people who matter to you most? Are you interested in making a change in your life? Or finding/creating the new you? I believe that we are all on our own heroic journey in search of our own unique calling. My passion is to assist you in your journey to add definition to your life.
(619) 942-5435 View (619) 942-5435
Photo of Donna M Chapman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Donna M Chapman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I provide services to a variety of populations: LGBT and straight, Vets, Active Duty Military, Transgender men and women, families and couples with a member who is Transgender.
I care...Let me help. We will create a safe, non-judgmental space from which to begin the process of healing. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families who have challenges in substance abuse, anxiety, depression, borderline personality issues and relationship problems. I also enjoy working with the LGBT community, specifically with Transgender people and their families. My rich life experience (fancy language for I'm older) allows me to truly align with partners and families that have members who are transgender and to be an ally with transgender individuals as they transition.
I provide services to a variety of populations: LGBT and straight, Vets, Active Duty Military, Transgender men and women, families and couples with a member who is Transgender.
I care...Let me help. We will create a safe, non-judgmental space from which to begin the process of healing. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families who have challenges in substance abuse, anxiety, depression, borderline personality issues and relationship problems. I also enjoy working with the LGBT community, specifically with Transgender people and their families. My rich life experience (fancy language for I'm older) allows me to truly align with partners and families that have members who are transgender and to be an ally with transgender individuals as they transition.
(619) 780-2559 View (619) 780-2559
Photo of The Lotus Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
The Lotus Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92115
I treat most issues, however, I specialize in teens, adults, the transgender population, women's issues, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and addiction.
I offer Telehealth counseling services for a wide range of life's challenges. I provide services that span from therapy for depression, anxiety, transgender related issues, women's issues, adolescent issues, trauma, addiction, to serious or terminal heath issues. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each clients' individual needs to assist in attaining the personal growth they are striving for.
I treat most issues, however, I specialize in teens, adults, the transgender population, women's issues, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and addiction.
I offer Telehealth counseling services for a wide range of life's challenges. I provide services that span from therapy for depression, anxiety, transgender related issues, women's issues, adolescent issues, trauma, addiction, to serious or terminal heath issues. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each clients' individual needs to assist in attaining the personal growth they are striving for.
(619) 279-5782 View (619) 279-5782
Photo of Elizabeth (Lizzy) Ritti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Elizabeth (Lizzy) Ritti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
I utilize my clinical training in CBT, Affirmative Therapy for Transgender Communities, and Exposure Response Prevention in therapy.
I provide mental health care to youth, families, and adults coping with life transitions, chronic family stress, and identity development. These circumstances have led many individuals to experience symptoms of depression, trauma, anxiety, and feelings of loss. It is a sign of bravery and strength to seek support when these stressors are difficult to manage on your own. I am here to explore ways to improve your quality of life and identify unmet needs contributing to mental health symptoms.
I utilize my clinical training in CBT, Affirmative Therapy for Transgender Communities, and Exposure Response Prevention in therapy.
I provide mental health care to youth, families, and adults coping with life transitions, chronic family stress, and identity development. These circumstances have led many individuals to experience symptoms of depression, trauma, anxiety, and feelings of loss. It is a sign of bravery and strength to seek support when these stressors are difficult to manage on your own. I am here to explore ways to improve your quality of life and identify unmet needs contributing to mental health symptoms.
(619) 881-0303 View (619) 881-0303
Photo of Hazel Hamann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Hazel Hamann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
(858) 251-8653 View (858) 251-8653
Photo of Lotus Do, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Lotus Do
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
As a Vietnamese-American transgender man, I understand that stress, violence and oppression can significantly impact our lives.
Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless? Facing a crossroads? Exhausted by endless responsibilities? Relief may seem impossible when you are faced with chronic stress or extreme difficulties... but it is possible. My name is Lotus and I may be able to help. I am a Licensed Therapist and Gender Specialist with nearly a decade of experience specializing in Gender Dysphoria, complex trauma, depression, anxiety and disordered eating across the entire lifespan. Whether you are seeking support for you or your child, no topic is "too much" for me. I have supported hundreds of children and their families and adults build balanced, joyful lives.
As a Vietnamese-American transgender man, I understand that stress, violence and oppression can significantly impact our lives.
Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless? Facing a crossroads? Exhausted by endless responsibilities? Relief may seem impossible when you are faced with chronic stress or extreme difficulties... but it is possible. My name is Lotus and I may be able to help. I am a Licensed Therapist and Gender Specialist with nearly a decade of experience specializing in Gender Dysphoria, complex trauma, depression, anxiety and disordered eating across the entire lifespan. Whether you are seeking support for you or your child, no topic is "too much" for me. I have supported hundreds of children and their families and adults build balanced, joyful lives.
(619) 383-3284 View (619) 383-3284
Photo of Gissell Rodriguez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Gissell Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
Hello and welcome! I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am committed to providing all my clients with compassionate support, an affirming space to be themselves, and a lens of curiosity and acceptance free of judgment. I work with adults and couples challenged by relationship issues, trauma, grief, life transitions, anxiety, somatic symptoms, identity issues, gender dysphoria, depression, and neurodivergence. Through our work we can help you identify and break out of cycles that are no longer serving you, renew your sense of hope & zest for life, and create lifelong changes.
Hello and welcome! I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am committed to providing all my clients with compassionate support, an affirming space to be themselves, and a lens of curiosity and acceptance free of judgment. I work with adults and couples challenged by relationship issues, trauma, grief, life transitions, anxiety, somatic symptoms, identity issues, gender dysphoria, depression, and neurodivergence. Through our work we can help you identify and break out of cycles that are no longer serving you, renew your sense of hope & zest for life, and create lifelong changes.
(619) 853-4568 View (619) 853-4568
Photo of John L Guinn, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
John L Guinn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116
I work well with couples, families, adolescents, young adults, older adults, survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence, members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and intersex (GLBTQQI) community, active duty servicemembers and veterans of the U.
"There is no normal life that is free of pain. It's the very wrestling with our problems that can be the IMPETUS for our growth." (Mister Rogers). Approaching mental health and psychotherapy from a person-centered, solution-focused, and action-oriented perspective allows me to assist individuals from diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds with creating and maintaining fulfilling relationships while sustaining a balanced life.
I work well with couples, families, adolescents, young adults, older adults, survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence, members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and intersex (GLBTQQI) community, active duty servicemembers and veterans of the U.
"There is no normal life that is free of pain. It's the very wrestling with our problems that can be the IMPETUS for our growth." (Mister Rogers). Approaching mental health and psychotherapy from a person-centered, solution-focused, and action-oriented perspective allows me to assist individuals from diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds with creating and maintaining fulfilling relationships while sustaining a balanced life.
(619) 382-2909 View (619) 382-2909
Photo of Maegan K A Nelson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Maegan K A Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I have a particular interest in serving my community and meeting with people who identify as LGBTQIA+ and partnering with individuals who identify as transgender as an advocate within the medical and mental health systems.
Welcome! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing narrative therapy in California. I am committed to providing anti-racist, gender-affirming, respectful care to each person with whom I meet; and to help each person discover and remember the abilities they have, which can help them move through life despite the obstacles they may encounter. I am passionate about standing alongside the individuals, couples, and families I collaborate with against the problems that show up in their lives.
I have a particular interest in serving my community and meeting with people who identify as LGBTQIA+ and partnering with individuals who identify as transgender as an advocate within the medical and mental health systems.
Welcome! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing narrative therapy in California. I am committed to providing anti-racist, gender-affirming, respectful care to each person with whom I meet; and to help each person discover and remember the abilities they have, which can help them move through life despite the obstacles they may encounter. I am passionate about standing alongside the individuals, couples, and families I collaborate with against the problems that show up in their lives.
(619) 486-9710 View (619) 486-9710
Photo of Michelle Pappalardi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Michelle Pappalardi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120
She is comfortable working with many populations, including abuse and trauma survivors, children and teens, clients in recovery, immigrants and refugees, LGBTQ/transgender clients, youth with mood, developmental, and behavioral challenges, young parents, and clients from multiple cultures.
Michelle Pappalardi is a licensed clinical social worker experienced in working with children, youth, and families. She worked with system-involved youth and families at the County of San Diego over 15 years before coming to PsyCare. Michelle earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology and Women's Studies at Antioch College in Ohio, and her master's degree in Social Work at San Diego State University in 2004.
She is comfortable working with many populations, including abuse and trauma survivors, children and teens, clients in recovery, immigrants and refugees, LGBTQ/transgender clients, youth with mood, developmental, and behavioral challenges, young parents, and clients from multiple cultures.
Michelle Pappalardi is a licensed clinical social worker experienced in working with children, youth, and families. She worked with system-involved youth and families at the County of San Diego over 15 years before coming to PsyCare. Michelle earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology and Women's Studies at Antioch College in Ohio, and her master's degree in Social Work at San Diego State University in 2004.
(858) 879-6216 View (858) 879-6216
Photo of Dr. Jason N Linder, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Jason N Linder
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
I help people, especially entrepreneurs, have better relationships, resolve painful memories (I'm certified & train in EMDR), embrace who they are, and decrease anxiety. I adjust my approach to fit your needs and preferences. Expert in transgender, immigration, and trauma evaluations. Advanced in trauma, addiction, relationships, and mindfulness (I write about them on Psychology Today). You can usually expect change in 2-8 sessions. As a psychology doctor and professor, I’m updated on the latest research, and am dedicated, caring, and collaborative. You should feel understood, hopeful, and safe in your confidential therapy.
I help people, especially entrepreneurs, have better relationships, resolve painful memories (I'm certified & train in EMDR), embrace who they are, and decrease anxiety. I adjust my approach to fit your needs and preferences. Expert in transgender, immigration, and trauma evaluations. Advanced in trauma, addiction, relationships, and mindfulness (I write about them on Psychology Today). You can usually expect change in 2-8 sessions. As a psychology doctor and professor, I’m updated on the latest research, and am dedicated, caring, and collaborative. You should feel understood, hopeful, and safe in your confidential therapy.
(619) 473-7607 View (619) 473-7607
Photo of Michael Toohey, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Michael Toohey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I have an extensive background working with minorities, including sexual minorities, transgender youth/adults, and their families, with expertise in navigating the transitioning process, and beyond.
I recognize that coming to therapy is a courageous first step and that you are taking a chance when you make that first appointment, especially when you are struggling. I consider it an honor to be entrusted by one seeking help. I demonstrate that honor by being committed to providing you with practical feedback in an empathetic and compassionate manner. With cognitive behavioral strategies, I provide techniques to manage and reduce negative symptoms by tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs.
I have an extensive background working with minorities, including sexual minorities, transgender youth/adults, and their families, with expertise in navigating the transitioning process, and beyond.
I recognize that coming to therapy is a courageous first step and that you are taking a chance when you make that first appointment, especially when you are struggling. I consider it an honor to be entrusted by one seeking help. I demonstrate that honor by being committed to providing you with practical feedback in an empathetic and compassionate manner. With cognitive behavioral strategies, I provide techniques to manage and reduce negative symptoms by tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs.
(619) 853-6745 View (619) 853-6745
Photo of Angelica Yi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Angelica Yi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
As a queer and bisexual, nonbinary femme, 2nd generation Korean American, I specialize in working with those who identify as LGBTQ+, BIPOC, adult children of immigrants, gender expansive, nonbinary, and transgender. I tend to work with folks who create their own paths in life - ones that may diverge from the norm. Oftentimes, these paths emerge from a place of necessity, without much support, and lacking a roadmap or guide.
As a queer and bisexual, nonbinary femme, 2nd generation Korean American, I specialize in working with those who identify as LGBTQ+, BIPOC, adult children of immigrants, gender expansive, nonbinary, and transgender. I tend to work with folks who create their own paths in life - ones that may diverge from the norm. Oftentimes, these paths emerge from a place of necessity, without much support, and lacking a roadmap or guide.
(415) 449-9963 View (415) 449-9963
Photo of Dr. Johanna Malaret, Psychological Associate in San Diego, CA
Dr. Johanna Malaret
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92115
Hello/Saludos. I welcome you to the start of your therapy journey and your desire to learn about yourself, and heal. As a bilingual Latina/x therapist for over 15 years, I have had the pleasure to work with college students, adults, emerging adults, domestic violence survivors, bilingual immigrants and, LGB and transgender community members. At times, it can be difficult to navigate our lives and relationships, and we might feel sad, angry, or overwhelmed. Therapy can be one way to get the support you need to feel better, learn, grow, heal, and thrive in your life and relationships. I will help you achieve that.
Hello/Saludos. I welcome you to the start of your therapy journey and your desire to learn about yourself, and heal. As a bilingual Latina/x therapist for over 15 years, I have had the pleasure to work with college students, adults, emerging adults, domestic violence survivors, bilingual immigrants and, LGB and transgender community members. At times, it can be difficult to navigate our lives and relationships, and we might feel sad, angry, or overwhelmed. Therapy can be one way to get the support you need to feel better, learn, grow, heal, and thrive in your life and relationships. I will help you achieve that.
(562) 573-9897 View (562) 573-9897
Photo of Ronald D Amos, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Ronald D Amos
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110  (Online Only)
Evaluations for ADHD, Bariatric Surgery, Transgender Letters, EDD and SSDI Disability.
Please click on the website button to request an initial appointment. You can now get the best therapy and assessment by video conferencing, with a very experienced and kind doctor. Most people see me because of stress, family issues, depression, anxiety, medical problems. My heart is in Depth Psychology: cut and paste this link for an explanation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJ6ZHAJ9NE8 Your treatment should be covered by your health insurance. Sessions as low as $80 if paying out of pocket. Sessions are 60 minutes. Feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.
Evaluations for ADHD, Bariatric Surgery, Transgender Letters, EDD and SSDI Disability.
Please click on the website button to request an initial appointment. You can now get the best therapy and assessment by video conferencing, with a very experienced and kind doctor. Most people see me because of stress, family issues, depression, anxiety, medical problems. My heart is in Depth Psychology: cut and paste this link for an explanation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJ6ZHAJ9NE8 Your treatment should be covered by your health insurance. Sessions as low as $80 if paying out of pocket. Sessions are 60 minutes. Feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.
(442) 233-3690 View (442) 233-3690
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.