Photo of Mo Bankey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Mo Bankey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301
Waitlist for new clients
Gay, lesbian, queer, bisexual, transgender, asexual, monogamous, non-monogamous, and polyamorous individuals and partners can benefit from relationship support, emotional literacy, healing trauma, and exploring gender in their lives.
There is a way through this. We will find it together. I believe in the power of authentic expression and deep relationships. I incorporate contemplative, somatic, and social justice approaches in my counseling. I work with adults focusing on identity, gender, and relationships. I provide a collaborative approach utilizing mind-body and present moment awareness to support you in connecting with your intrinsic health and inherent wisdom. As meditator, dancer, and gardener I value time to reflect, slow down, be with nature, and developing our capacity to move from the heart with courage and gentleness.
Gay, lesbian, queer, bisexual, transgender, asexual, monogamous, non-monogamous, and polyamorous individuals and partners can benefit from relationship support, emotional literacy, healing trauma, and exploring gender in their lives.
There is a way through this. We will find it together. I believe in the power of authentic expression and deep relationships. I incorporate contemplative, somatic, and social justice approaches in my counseling. I work with adults focusing on identity, gender, and relationships. I provide a collaborative approach utilizing mind-body and present moment awareness to support you in connecting with your intrinsic health and inherent wisdom. As meditator, dancer, and gardener I value time to reflect, slow down, be with nature, and developing our capacity to move from the heart with courage and gentleness.
(970) 410-3517 View (970) 410-3517
Photo of Elliot Helt, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in Boulder, CO
Elliot Helt
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MA, MFT-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Waitlist for new clients
I am adept at facilitating growth addressing trauma, self-worth, identity, body image, gender dysphoria, relationship dynamics (including nonmonogamy) and communication.
I have a passion for supporting partners, families, and individuals in the queer community and who identify as neurodivergent. As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I understand the unique challenges and triumphs that come with navigating experiences and relationships from these lived experiences. My goal is to create an inclusive environment where all expressions of love and identity are celebrated and to support clients in being their authentic self, embrace their identities, and build healthy relationships.
I am adept at facilitating growth addressing trauma, self-worth, identity, body image, gender dysphoria, relationship dynamics (including nonmonogamy) and communication.
I have a passion for supporting partners, families, and individuals in the queer community and who identify as neurodivergent. As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, I understand the unique challenges and triumphs that come with navigating experiences and relationships from these lived experiences. My goal is to create an inclusive environment where all expressions of love and identity are celebrated and to support clients in being their authentic self, embrace their identities, and build healthy relationships.
(720) 704-1238 View (720) 704-1238
Photo of Evalie Horner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Evalie Horner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ABDPHD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304  (Online Only)
Evalie has been moved by her work with transgender clients, both those established in a new gender identity or seeking support navigating the process of transition.
Evalie Horner is especially passionate about supporting artists and writers, trauma survivors, and the LGBTQ community. During the late 1990s, Evalie helped to pioneer C.U. Boulder's LGBTQ studies certificate, one of the country's first programs of this kind. She has several publications in the field of LGBTQ studies, including a book chapter on counseling bisexual clients. Evalie raises her twin girls, Emma and Ryan. Her mother was an astologer who trained her and she has recently enjoyed reading and incorporating client astrological charts when asked. She is also an expert in the unique challenges of LGBTQ plus divorce.
Evalie has been moved by her work with transgender clients, both those established in a new gender identity or seeking support navigating the process of transition.
Evalie Horner is especially passionate about supporting artists and writers, trauma survivors, and the LGBTQ community. During the late 1990s, Evalie helped to pioneer C.U. Boulder's LGBTQ studies certificate, one of the country's first programs of this kind. She has several publications in the field of LGBTQ studies, including a book chapter on counseling bisexual clients. Evalie raises her twin girls, Emma and Ryan. Her mother was an astologer who trained her and she has recently enjoyed reading and incorporating client astrological charts when asked. She is also an expert in the unique challenges of LGBTQ plus divorce.
(303) 622-1142 View (303) 622-1142
Photo of Sara Edwards, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Sara Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80310
Hello! I'm looking forward to meeting you. I am a therapist specializing in working with sexuality topics. Maybe you are looking for a therapist for a sexuality concern, sex therapy, sexual pain, trauma, or for transgender-affirming care. Maybe you just want to see someone who "gets it" and will be affirming of everything that makes you uniquely you. Whatever the reason, I am excited to accompany you on this wellness journey you're taking! I bring great enthusiasm to my therapy and I am looking forward to helping you achieve your life's passions. I have immediate openings, so we can get started soon without the wait.
Hello! I'm looking forward to meeting you. I am a therapist specializing in working with sexuality topics. Maybe you are looking for a therapist for a sexuality concern, sex therapy, sexual pain, trauma, or for transgender-affirming care. Maybe you just want to see someone who "gets it" and will be affirming of everything that makes you uniquely you. Whatever the reason, I am excited to accompany you on this wellness journey you're taking! I bring great enthusiasm to my therapy and I am looking forward to helping you achieve your life's passions. I have immediate openings, so we can get started soon without the wait.
(215) 688-5866 View (215) 688-5866
Photo of Stephanie Boulton, Counselor in Boulder, CO
Stephanie Boulton
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80303
I am LGBQ+, Transgender, Non-Binary, and neurodiversity affirming.
From navigating relationships, careers, identity, politics, culture: adulting is no small task for a person of any age..... let alone navigating overwhelming emotions, eating, sleeping and trauma on top of the energy it takes to get by on a daily basis. Some part of your life maybe feels elusive and takes a lot of extra energy...like being able to stay in relationships, be at peace in your body or satisfied with how you present yourself to the world. Therapy can be a helpful place to sort through all the messages that are unhelpful and get clear on what your real needs are.
I am LGBQ+, Transgender, Non-Binary, and neurodiversity affirming.
From navigating relationships, careers, identity, politics, culture: adulting is no small task for a person of any age..... let alone navigating overwhelming emotions, eating, sleeping and trauma on top of the energy it takes to get by on a daily basis. Some part of your life maybe feels elusive and takes a lot of extra energy...like being able to stay in relationships, be at peace in your body or satisfied with how you present yourself to the world. Therapy can be a helpful place to sort through all the messages that are unhelpful and get clear on what your real needs are.
(720) 806-4678 View (720) 806-4678
Photo of Maxine Gower - Clinical Social Worker; Psychoanalyst, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boulder, CO
Maxine Gower - Clinical Social Worker; Psychoanalyst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301  (Online Only)
I work with families, couples and individuals, 12 years and older, who experience anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, relational issues, gender identity, transgender decisions, fertility difficulties and divorce.
After 34 years in practice, I continue to witness the power of "the talking cure". Through talking, we come to know ourselves intimately and are able to discover what is at the root of painful thoughts, feelings and actions. Feeling seen, heard, understood and accepted is key to restoring hope as well as alleviating pain and suffering. Deep and abiding change can occur because an authentic relationship with a caring and skilled therapist allows for exploration of painful, scary and difficult feelings.
I work with families, couples and individuals, 12 years and older, who experience anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, relational issues, gender identity, transgender decisions, fertility difficulties and divorce.
After 34 years in practice, I continue to witness the power of "the talking cure". Through talking, we come to know ourselves intimately and are able to discover what is at the root of painful thoughts, feelings and actions. Feeling seen, heard, understood and accepted is key to restoring hope as well as alleviating pain and suffering. Deep and abiding change can occur because an authentic relationship with a caring and skilled therapist allows for exploration of painful, scary and difficult feelings.
(720) 288-0937 View (720) 288-0937
Photo of Angela Fisher in Boulder, CO
Angela Fisher
MS, PT, CST, TY, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80305
I tend to have stellar success with anxiety and trauma, adult autism and gender dysphoria.
I am a client centric therapist who practices both Eastern and Western treatments. My ideal client is one who desires change and is willing to put in the effort. I believe that nothing is insurmountable and together we will create an all inclusive approach to live your fullest and happiest life. My specialties include many certifications from both national and international modalities. My philosophy is based on VAN Therapy which is validate, accept, and nurture, all of you from the inside. We are learning how to live your best life, together. I am problem solving oriented and judgement free. Schedule a consultation now!
I tend to have stellar success with anxiety and trauma, adult autism and gender dysphoria.
I am a client centric therapist who practices both Eastern and Western treatments. My ideal client is one who desires change and is willing to put in the effort. I believe that nothing is insurmountable and together we will create an all inclusive approach to live your fullest and happiest life. My specialties include many certifications from both national and international modalities. My philosophy is based on VAN Therapy which is validate, accept, and nurture, all of you from the inside. We are learning how to live your best life, together. I am problem solving oriented and judgement free. Schedule a consultation now!
(317) 672-0770 View (317) 672-0770
Photo of Open Arms Counseling and Transition Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boulder, CO
Open Arms Counseling and Transition Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301  (Online Only)
Immediate openings for Colorado Medicaid clients! Are you struggling with anxiety, trauma, or depression? We are here to help. Together we will identify what is holding you back from realizing the true you and get you on the road to being happy, healthy, and secure in your abilities to handle whatever life brings! We specialize in trauma and PTSD and the impact it has on our lives and relationships. Reach out to us today and start on the path to realizing your true self! We are trained in brainspotting. We are also able to provide WPATH letters for transgender clients.
Immediate openings for Colorado Medicaid clients! Are you struggling with anxiety, trauma, or depression? We are here to help. Together we will identify what is holding you back from realizing the true you and get you on the road to being happy, healthy, and secure in your abilities to handle whatever life brings! We specialize in trauma and PTSD and the impact it has on our lives and relationships. Reach out to us today and start on the path to realizing your true self! We are trained in brainspotting. We are also able to provide WPATH letters for transgender clients.
(720) 575-2953 View (720) 575-2953
Photo of Umbrella Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boulder, CO
Umbrella Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
Talk therapy for your intersecting identities. We are adept at navigating the difficult and complex conversations about your intersecting identities that can ebb and flow over one's life. In addition, we are committed to ongoing education and skilled at therapeutic intervention for psychological healing. By talking through the challenges you face, we collaborate with you to interrupt old patterned behavior and install new conclusions and behaviors that lead to constructive coping, personal growth, increased self-awareness, and feeling more comfortable within yourself.
Talk therapy for your intersecting identities. We are adept at navigating the difficult and complex conversations about your intersecting identities that can ebb and flow over one's life. In addition, we are committed to ongoing education and skilled at therapeutic intervention for psychological healing. By talking through the challenges you face, we collaborate with you to interrupt old patterned behavior and install new conclusions and behaviors that lead to constructive coping, personal growth, increased self-awareness, and feeling more comfortable within yourself.
(720) 410-9468 View (720) 410-9468
Photo of Sara Willott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boulder, CO
Sara Willott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
Are you thinking about breaking a pattern that no longer serves you? Often feel like an outsider? Wanting to understand threads between past, present experiences, and possibilities ahead? Utilizing a variety of approaches, I can offer perspective and help you feel understood in order to create change in your life. I provide an affirming space for a lot of people who have had previously unsatisfactory experiences in therapy including LGBTQIA folks. I have extensive training beyond just getting licensed to practice therapy. Working with a clinically astute, sincere therapist can be life-changing.
Are you thinking about breaking a pattern that no longer serves you? Often feel like an outsider? Wanting to understand threads between past, present experiences, and possibilities ahead? Utilizing a variety of approaches, I can offer perspective and help you feel understood in order to create change in your life. I provide an affirming space for a lot of people who have had previously unsatisfactory experiences in therapy including LGBTQIA folks. I have extensive training beyond just getting licensed to practice therapy. Working with a clinically astute, sincere therapist can be life-changing.
(303) 943-9718 View (303) 943-9718
Photo of Ryan Durgin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Ryan Durgin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone is going through something. Perhaps life has thrown a challenging situation your way or you are experiencing unexpected stress. Perhaps you feel anxious or in need of a change. Perhaps you are searching for meaning in who you are or what you have been through in the past. Whatever brings you to therapy, know that healing and joy are possible. I take a holistic approach to well-being - cultivating a non-judgmental therapeutic environment, helping to identify where you may benefit from healing, and tapping into your strengths.
Everyone is going through something. Perhaps life has thrown a challenging situation your way or you are experiencing unexpected stress. Perhaps you feel anxious or in need of a change. Perhaps you are searching for meaning in who you are or what you have been through in the past. Whatever brings you to therapy, know that healing and joy are possible. I take a holistic approach to well-being - cultivating a non-judgmental therapeutic environment, helping to identify where you may benefit from healing, and tapping into your strengths.
(720) 735-3848 View (720) 735-3848
Photo of Tess M. Kilwein, PhD, ABPP, CMPC, Psychologist in Boulder, CO
Tess M. Kilwein, PhD, ABPP, CMPC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80309  (Online Only)
Looking to improve your sport/mental performance? Better understand your gender, sexuality, or relationship identity? Process a history of trauma? Our stories are our greatest power, and yet, can be difficult to share. I am a Clinical Sport Psychologist who encourages clients to tell their stories (yes, even the ugly stuff!) as accurately and meaningfully as possible to pave a path for moving forward. I equally recognize that not all mental health concerns are individually determined, and encourage clients to explore the impact of their social, intergenerational, and environmental histories and resources to promote healing/growth.
Looking to improve your sport/mental performance? Better understand your gender, sexuality, or relationship identity? Process a history of trauma? Our stories are our greatest power, and yet, can be difficult to share. I am a Clinical Sport Psychologist who encourages clients to tell their stories (yes, even the ugly stuff!) as accurately and meaningfully as possible to pave a path for moving forward. I equally recognize that not all mental health concerns are individually determined, and encourage clients to explore the impact of their social, intergenerational, and environmental histories and resources to promote healing/growth.
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Photo of Paul D Montgomery, Counselor in Boulder, CO
Paul D Montgomery
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303  (Online Only)
Sometimes the state of our world can feel so scary and heartbreaking that we feel immobilized. Much of our potential is blocked by feeling overwhelmed by the day to day challenge of struggling to advocate for ourselves in our communities, the world, even in our own thoughts and beliefs! It is easy to feel anxious, alone and simultaneously at war with ourselves. I emphasize serving individuals that experience marginalized identities and see myself as your co-conspirator. I work with issues of identity and non-normative experiences, in the context of gender, sexuality as well as queer experience beyond that framework
Sometimes the state of our world can feel so scary and heartbreaking that we feel immobilized. Much of our potential is blocked by feeling overwhelmed by the day to day challenge of struggling to advocate for ourselves in our communities, the world, even in our own thoughts and beliefs! It is easy to feel anxious, alone and simultaneously at war with ourselves. I emphasize serving individuals that experience marginalized identities and see myself as your co-conspirator. I work with issues of identity and non-normative experiences, in the context of gender, sexuality as well as queer experience beyond that framework
(207) 843-9518 View (207) 843-9518
Photo of Casey Devan McCarthy, Registered Psychotherapist in Boulder, CO
Casey Devan McCarthy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80305  (Online Only)
“Scars have the strange power to remind us that our past is real.” -Cormac McCarthy. I work with going into darkness and introducing the light that comes from healing. My approach is Holistic, Transpersonal/Existential, and Trauma-Informed, while also relying heavily on the creation of autonomy and meaning. My style is particularly effective for people who are struggling to overcome traumatic and damaging life experiences, including adult survivors of childhood abuse, veterans, individuals in the GLBTQIA community, and others who have had to cope with severe hardships.
“Scars have the strange power to remind us that our past is real.” -Cormac McCarthy. I work with going into darkness and introducing the light that comes from healing. My approach is Holistic, Transpersonal/Existential, and Trauma-Informed, while also relying heavily on the creation of autonomy and meaning. My style is particularly effective for people who are struggling to overcome traumatic and damaging life experiences, including adult survivors of childhood abuse, veterans, individuals in the GLBTQIA community, and others who have had to cope with severe hardships.
(720) 770-2545 View (720) 770-2545
Photo of Meg McNeil in Boulder, CO
Meg McNeil
MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Have you ever been labeled as ‘too sensitive,’ ‘too emotional,’ or ‘too needy’ by someone in your life? Do you feel like you have to hide parts of yourself to receive love and acceptance? Do you feel drained from the everyday experience of living with your identity? If any of this sounds familiar, welcome. You are in the right place. However you are arriving here, know that the essence of your wholeness lies within you, waiting to be discovered.
Have you ever been labeled as ‘too sensitive,’ ‘too emotional,’ or ‘too needy’ by someone in your life? Do you feel like you have to hide parts of yourself to receive love and acceptance? Do you feel drained from the everyday experience of living with your identity? If any of this sounds familiar, welcome. You are in the right place. However you are arriving here, know that the essence of your wholeness lies within you, waiting to be discovered.
(720) 679-7213 View (720) 679-7213
Photo of Therapy for the Brave, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Therapy for the Brave
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
(Please call or text me directly at 720-771-6653 as the number provided here does not seem to work and the voicemails are garbled... ) As a therapist, I offer a lot of feedback while respecting your views and goals. I have no hidden agenda, what you see is what you get. My job is to empower you to find your way through stuck places and to accompany you on your path of self-discovery. I was born and raised in Europe, so it gives me the benefit of having a multi-cultural perspective on life which I believe can enrich one's exploration.
(Please call or text me directly at 720-771-6653 as the number provided here does not seem to work and the voicemails are garbled... ) As a therapist, I offer a lot of feedback while respecting your views and goals. I have no hidden agenda, what you see is what you get. My job is to empower you to find your way through stuck places and to accompany you on your path of self-discovery. I was born and raised in Europe, so it gives me the benefit of having a multi-cultural perspective on life which I believe can enrich one's exploration.
(720) 640-8959 View (720) 640-8959
Photo of Rye Lynne Spanton, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Boulder, CO
Rye Lynne Spanton
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301  (Online Only)
Change is always happening, the ebb and flow of mind, body, and spirit. So much energy spent trying to control and anticipate change so we can live our idealized lives. We bind ourselves up in the imposed binaries of good-bad, right-wrong, missing the spectrum of experiences that truly exist. All these steps to be somewhere we are not in our journey, to force movement towards "better" experience. Exhausting. What if instead of fighting for control, we could find a way to be okay where we are and foster responsive movement in our life, where we follow its flow? I aim to support clients in befriending and moving with their patterns.
Change is always happening, the ebb and flow of mind, body, and spirit. So much energy spent trying to control and anticipate change so we can live our idealized lives. We bind ourselves up in the imposed binaries of good-bad, right-wrong, missing the spectrum of experiences that truly exist. All these steps to be somewhere we are not in our journey, to force movement towards "better" experience. Exhausting. What if instead of fighting for control, we could find a way to be okay where we are and foster responsive movement in our life, where we follow its flow? I aim to support clients in befriending and moving with their patterns.
(720) 310-6121 View (720) 310-6121
Photo of Caitlin Lowe-Hoover, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Caitlin Lowe-Hoover
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80305
The work I do with clients is rooted in the belief that connecting with all of the parts that make us who we are and forming meaningful relationships with our surrounding community (both human and non-human) can help us find solid ground in times of stress, trauma, and challenging life transitions. I specialize in helping children, teens and young adults develop the skills to find nervous system regulation, form healthy attachments, and build skills to manage anxiety and depression. I predominantly (and not exclusively) work with folks in the LGBTQIA2S+ community, believing that every body deserves a caring space to heal and restore
The work I do with clients is rooted in the belief that connecting with all of the parts that make us who we are and forming meaningful relationships with our surrounding community (both human and non-human) can help us find solid ground in times of stress, trauma, and challenging life transitions. I specialize in helping children, teens and young adults develop the skills to find nervous system regulation, form healthy attachments, and build skills to manage anxiety and depression. I predominantly (and not exclusively) work with folks in the LGBTQIA2S+ community, believing that every body deserves a caring space to heal and restore
(970) 528-1018 View (970) 528-1018
Photo of Ray Lewey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Ray Lewey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Experiences of anxiety, depression, and trauma take a massive toll on our lives and relationships, often leaving us feeling out of control, disconnected, and dissatisfied. However, I believe that healing is not only possible, but is something that we are naturally moving toward, even when it doesn't feel that way. As a therapist, I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can reconnect to that natural impulse toward healing.
Experiences of anxiety, depression, and trauma take a massive toll on our lives and relationships, often leaving us feeling out of control, disconnected, and dissatisfied. However, I believe that healing is not only possible, but is something that we are naturally moving toward, even when it doesn't feel that way. As a therapist, I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can reconnect to that natural impulse toward healing.
(720) 897-3587 View (720) 897-3587
Photo of Sandy Rayman, Counselor in Boulder, CO
Sandy Rayman
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303  (Online Only)
No matter where you're at in your journey, if you're motivated to heal from past trauma, I'm here to help. You deserve to live your life authentically, fully present, and to give yourself the love you always needed. I'm a LGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent identified clinician, focusing on anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions with members of my communities. We'll build coping skills catered to your needs, nervous system, and neurotype. Together, we can release old pain so you can step into the life you want.
No matter where you're at in your journey, if you're motivated to heal from past trauma, I'm here to help. You deserve to live your life authentically, fully present, and to give yourself the love you always needed. I'm a LGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent identified clinician, focusing on anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions with members of my communities. We'll build coping skills catered to your needs, nervous system, and neurotype. Together, we can release old pain so you can step into the life you want.
(720) 500-6755 View (720) 500-6755
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.