Photo of Johnny Sparrow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Johnny Sparrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14626  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
One of the hardest things is to reach out for help and be vulnerable. I am hoping that we will be able to make that journey together. If you are struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, seeking gender affirming care please consider me. My own personal journey has brought me to become a therapist. It has provided a unique perspective that sets myself apart from other professionals due to my personal experience with gender and sexual identity. As a person who identifies as part of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community myself, I am proud to specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative treatment.
One of the hardest things is to reach out for help and be vulnerable. I am hoping that we will be able to make that journey together. If you are struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, seeking gender affirming care please consider me. My own personal journey has brought me to become a therapist. It has provided a unique perspective that sets myself apart from other professionals due to my personal experience with gender and sexual identity. As a person who identifies as part of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community myself, I am proud to specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative treatment.
(585) 299-5591 View (585) 299-5591
Photo of Benjamin Davis, Art Therapist in New York
Benjamin Davis
Art Therapist, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
While the focus of my practice and orientation is gender affirming and non-pathologizing with regards to queer and transgender issues, I welcome individuals of all gender identities and orientations.
Looking for a therapist, and particularly a queer and trans affirming therapist, can be a difficult and often complex process. We want someone who will understand our needs and our background, help us grow and develop new skills, and will support us in making sense of something that remains unsettling, perhaps years after a trauma or thought pattern first emerged.
While the focus of my practice and orientation is gender affirming and non-pathologizing with regards to queer and transgender issues, I welcome individuals of all gender identities and orientations.
Looking for a therapist, and particularly a queer and trans affirming therapist, can be a difficult and often complex process. We want someone who will understand our needs and our background, help us grow and develop new skills, and will support us in making sense of something that remains unsettling, perhaps years after a trauma or thought pattern first emerged.
(917) 525-5361 View (917) 525-5361
Photo of Alayo Bascome, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Alayo Bascome
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW, CPC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
Areas of specialty include (but are not limited to): Trauma and post-traumatic resilience; Chronic illness & Disability; Executive functioning; Parenthood; and Transgender/Gender expansive experiences across the lifespan.
Everyone comes to The Work in their own way, for their own reasons, in their own time. For some, it's a safe space to explore and grow as they need. For others it's a dedicated ear and a mind trained to help them resolve emotional conflicts, stress, anxiety, and depression. Still others long to be seen and embraced (in all of their complexity and nuance). Whatever journey has led you here, my goal is to help you step into the fullness of your Self and live the best life possible.
Areas of specialty include (but are not limited to): Trauma and post-traumatic resilience; Chronic illness & Disability; Executive functioning; Parenthood; and Transgender/Gender expansive experiences across the lifespan.
Everyone comes to The Work in their own way, for their own reasons, in their own time. For some, it's a safe space to explore and grow as they need. For others it's a dedicated ear and a mind trained to help them resolve emotional conflicts, stress, anxiety, and depression. Still others long to be seen and embraced (in all of their complexity and nuance). Whatever journey has led you here, my goal is to help you step into the fullness of your Self and live the best life possible.
(646) 849-9591 View (646) 849-9591
Photo of Lana Hurst, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Lana Hurst
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10038
Waitlist for new clients
As a transgender woman who grew up in a politically and religiously conservative context, I know that change and healing can be terrifying.
Let’s say therapy works for you, what do you imagine will be different about your life? I always ask this question in our initial session, because therapy is about helping you get where you’re trying to go. My role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where curiosity is natural, compassion is the baseline, and exploration is key. To do this, I believe that a positive and strong relationship between therapist and client is essential. I typically work with clients who are navigating gender identity, life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and/or trauma—especially religious/spiritual trauma.
As a transgender woman who grew up in a politically and religiously conservative context, I know that change and healing can be terrifying.
Let’s say therapy works for you, what do you imagine will be different about your life? I always ask this question in our initial session, because therapy is about helping you get where you’re trying to go. My role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where curiosity is natural, compassion is the baseline, and exploration is key. To do this, I believe that a positive and strong relationship between therapist and client is essential. I typically work with clients who are navigating gender identity, life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and/or trauma—especially religious/spiritual trauma.
(347) 391-3629 View (347) 391-3629
Photo of Katie Douglass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Katie Douglass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
I am a Queer-identified therapist with over 20 years of experience working with diverse Transgender, Queer, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Gay identified individuals. My style is warm, active, and authentic. Starting therapy is hard, so my priority in early sessions is for you to feel relaxed, understood, and comfortable. Your laughter and questions are welcomed. With a background in LGBTQ+ public health, I am sensitive to the challenges and stressors that come with living outside cisgender/hetero norms. I also value subjugated knowledge​ - the wisdom we possess from not fitting into the dominant culture.
I am a Queer-identified therapist with over 20 years of experience working with diverse Transgender, Queer, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Gay identified individuals. My style is warm, active, and authentic. Starting therapy is hard, so my priority in early sessions is for you to feel relaxed, understood, and comfortable. Your laughter and questions are welcomed. With a background in LGBTQ+ public health, I am sensitive to the challenges and stressors that come with living outside cisgender/hetero norms. I also value subjugated knowledge​ - the wisdom we possess from not fitting into the dominant culture.
(929) 415-9936 View (929) 415-9936
Photo of Sean M Endress, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Sean M Endress
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, NY 12203
I also have extensive training in working with the LGBTQ population and regularly provide insurance documentation for individuals on the transgender spectrum seeking gender confirming healthcare services.
You are more than just a diagnosis! Therapy can help you to develop the resilience to cope with even the most painful of life circumstances. Respect, compassion, and collaboration are essential components of the therapeutic relationship. We will work together to develop insight into your emotional distress, construct strategies to cope with overwhelming feelings, and create a positive vision for your future. Clients find me to be approachable, responsive, and committed to the process of healing and personal growth.
I also have extensive training in working with the LGBTQ population and regularly provide insurance documentation for individuals on the transgender spectrum seeking gender confirming healthcare services.
You are more than just a diagnosis! Therapy can help you to develop the resilience to cope with even the most painful of life circumstances. Respect, compassion, and collaboration are essential components of the therapeutic relationship. We will work together to develop insight into your emotional distress, construct strategies to cope with overwhelming feelings, and create a positive vision for your future. Clients find me to be approachable, responsive, and committed to the process of healing and personal growth.
(646) 600-9229 View (646) 600-9229
Photo of Renee H Reopell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Renee H Reopell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm so glad you're here. Finding a supportive, therapeutic home can be a difficult challenge for us as queer, transgender, and non-binary people. Therefore, I hold some values to create a safer space: you are the expert in your own lived experience; you already posses the strengths that will help you with the challenges you're facing; you deserve a place without judgement; and you are entitled to be your authentic self. I come from a cross-cultural, social justice perspective, and believe collaboration with you is necessary for your best self. I serve individuals and families.
I'm so glad you're here. Finding a supportive, therapeutic home can be a difficult challenge for us as queer, transgender, and non-binary people. Therefore, I hold some values to create a safer space: you are the expert in your own lived experience; you already posses the strengths that will help you with the challenges you're facing; you deserve a place without judgement; and you are entitled to be your authentic self. I come from a cross-cultural, social justice perspective, and believe collaboration with you is necessary for your best self. I serve individuals and families.
(347) 662-2516 View (347) 662-2516
Photo of Nayeli Azul Salazar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Nayeli Azul Salazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space so you can speak openly about your experiences. I bring understanding working with LGBTQ+ individuals, first and second-generation immigrants, sex workers, and those in non-monogamous relationships. As a Latina transgender woman, I understand the importance of receiving affirming care that honors your unique identity and experiences. I want to hear your values and goals to help guide the direction of therapy.
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space so you can speak openly about your experiences. I bring understanding working with LGBTQ+ individuals, first and second-generation immigrants, sex workers, and those in non-monogamous relationships. As a Latina transgender woman, I understand the importance of receiving affirming care that honors your unique identity and experiences. I want to hear your values and goals to help guide the direction of therapy.
(332) 244-1248 View (332) 244-1248
Photo of Mia Paige Mikowicz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Mia Paige Mikowicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11238
I primarily work with individuals and couples seeking sex therapy, and offer a variety of techniques including motivational interviewing, CBT, narrative therapy, and specialize in transgender, gender non-conforming, and non binary communities, as well as queer, poly, kink, and sex-positivity.
To be an alive person on this planet in this political moment asks a great deal of us all. We are all tested uniquely, and as members of families and communities, in our ability to grow and embrace the hardships and sorrow that we face in our every day lives. And in the face of those challenges you have come this far because of your very own special brand of survival. Whether you are feeling stuck in your relationship(s), struggling to overcome structural or systemic barriers, or finding the weight of your thoughts and emotions insurmountable, know there is a great deal of strength inside you and I hope we can unlock it together.
I primarily work with individuals and couples seeking sex therapy, and offer a variety of techniques including motivational interviewing, CBT, narrative therapy, and specialize in transgender, gender non-conforming, and non binary communities, as well as queer, poly, kink, and sex-positivity.
To be an alive person on this planet in this political moment asks a great deal of us all. We are all tested uniquely, and as members of families and communities, in our ability to grow and embrace the hardships and sorrow that we face in our every day lives. And in the face of those challenges you have come this far because of your very own special brand of survival. Whether you are feeling stuck in your relationship(s), struggling to overcome structural or systemic barriers, or finding the weight of your thoughts and emotions insurmountable, know there is a great deal of strength inside you and I hope we can unlock it together.
View
Photo of McKenzie Smallcomb, Counselor in New York
McKenzie Smallcomb
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brighton, NY 14620
I also co-lead a group for caregivers who are parenting transgender or gender diverse youth!.
Are you having difficulty sorting through life's many challenges? Taking this step can feel overwhelming and I'd like to offer you a safe space where you can truly express yourself to begin finding ways to cope with this stress. I provide support to adolescents, their family members, and adults to address a variety of challenges. I offer a trusted environment for individuals to be themselves and help to foster change by supporting you in feeling your challenges are more manageable. It takes a great deal of courage to seek this support and I'm so glad you are here!
I also co-lead a group for caregivers who are parenting transgender or gender diverse youth!.
Are you having difficulty sorting through life's many challenges? Taking this step can feel overwhelming and I'd like to offer you a safe space where you can truly express yourself to begin finding ways to cope with this stress. I provide support to adolescents, their family members, and adults to address a variety of challenges. I offer a trusted environment for individuals to be themselves and help to foster change by supporting you in feeling your challenges are more manageable. It takes a great deal of courage to seek this support and I'm so glad you are here!
(585) 449-6380 View (585) 449-6380
Photo of Joie A DeRitis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Joie A DeRitis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting transgender and gender non-conforming people, polyamorous and non-monogamous folks, and those interested in kink and BDSM.
I am currently accepting new clients. I am a psychotherapist offering weekly care to adult individuals, couples, and multi-partner relationships. My clinical approach is highly relational, and is designed to keep you grounded in your personal sovereignty as we collaborate toward your goals. I help people with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, gender and sexuality, eroticism, interpersonal dysfunction, intrusive thoughts, body image, spirituality and religious trauma, life changes and transitions, and the shame and blame that linger from the past.
I specialize in supporting transgender and gender non-conforming people, polyamorous and non-monogamous folks, and those interested in kink and BDSM.
I am currently accepting new clients. I am a psychotherapist offering weekly care to adult individuals, couples, and multi-partner relationships. My clinical approach is highly relational, and is designed to keep you grounded in your personal sovereignty as we collaborate toward your goals. I help people with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, gender and sexuality, eroticism, interpersonal dysfunction, intrusive thoughts, body image, spirituality and religious trauma, life changes and transitions, and the shame and blame that linger from the past.
(929) 369-0579 View (929) 369-0579
Photo of Tanya Koifman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Tanya Koifman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10036  (Online Only)
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
(646) 798-6332 View (646) 798-6332
Photo of CPH Mental Health Counseling, Counselor in New York
CPH Mental Health Counseling
Counselor
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14209
CPH Mental Health Counseling supports a variety of different patients. We support children, adolescents, adults, and families who are in need of psychological and support services for the various mental health struggles. While we specialize in the areas of gender dysphoria and trauma, we also offer general counseling services for anxiety, depression, post traumatic-stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorders, adjustment disorders and family conflicts.
CPH Mental Health Counseling supports a variety of different patients. We support children, adolescents, adults, and families who are in need of psychological and support services for the various mental health struggles. While we specialize in the areas of gender dysphoria and trauma, we also offer general counseling services for anxiety, depression, post traumatic-stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorders, adjustment disorders and family conflicts.
(716) 265-4935 View (716) 265-4935
Photo of Kelli Knabe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Kelli Knabe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I specialize in working with adolescent clients (gay, lesbian, straight, questioning and transgender), which includes providing support and guidance to their parents.
Psychotherapy offers us the opportunity to have the support we need to examine those areas of our lives we find painful, confusing, and/or challenging. It is common for all of us from time to time to feel "stuck" in our lives, or faced with problems that we cannot seem to overcome. My goal is to help my clients access their internal and interpersonal resources in ways that are healing and help them gain a greater sense of personal agency in their lives. We may achieve this by exploring the past, looking at the present, or a combination of both.
I specialize in working with adolescent clients (gay, lesbian, straight, questioning and transgender), which includes providing support and guidance to their parents.
Psychotherapy offers us the opportunity to have the support we need to examine those areas of our lives we find painful, confusing, and/or challenging. It is common for all of us from time to time to feel "stuck" in our lives, or faced with problems that we cannot seem to overcome. My goal is to help my clients access their internal and interpersonal resources in ways that are healing and help them gain a greater sense of personal agency in their lives. We may achieve this by exploring the past, looking at the present, or a combination of both.
(646) 583-3379 View (646) 583-3379
Photo of Andrea (Andi) M Binner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Andrea (Andi) M Binner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSEd, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14214
Waitlist for new clients
I am a transgender affirming and gender expansive counselor.
I am a full-time practioner, and have been a therapist for over 30 years. I have worked in many different settings. I am not accepting new clients, other than the folks i have already communicated with. Trust is an important part of any relationship. I understand that it is something that is created slowly, and maintained over time. I often serve as someone who bears witness to the stories people bring with them. By listening to those that come to see me, I better understand their experiences and then have an opportunity to assist them to fully heal.
I am a transgender affirming and gender expansive counselor.
I am a full-time practioner, and have been a therapist for over 30 years. I have worked in many different settings. I am not accepting new clients, other than the folks i have already communicated with. Trust is an important part of any relationship. I understand that it is something that is created slowly, and maintained over time. I often serve as someone who bears witness to the stories people bring with them. By listening to those that come to see me, I better understand their experiences and then have an opportunity to assist them to fully heal.
(716) 200-1988 View (716) 200-1988
Photo of Maureen Diane Gerwitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Maureen Diane Gerwitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MSW
Verified Verified
I have particular success working with transgender people; especially those realizing self-acceptance and early transitions concerns.
I have had the pleasure of working in this field for more than 35 years and have found that no problem is too big, peace is a position of power, and change is another word for refine/revise/adapt. My favorite quote is: "You have to fall in love with your life." Counseling is a way to learn the barriers to doing this, the tools and techniques for doing so, and shifts in beliefs needed to attain the trickle down effect from this. Clients with whom I work often are seeking shifts in their life/spiritual view, focus, behaviors and coping skills.
I have particular success working with transgender people; especially those realizing self-acceptance and early transitions concerns.
I have had the pleasure of working in this field for more than 35 years and have found that no problem is too big, peace is a position of power, and change is another word for refine/revise/adapt. My favorite quote is: "You have to fall in love with your life." Counseling is a way to learn the barriers to doing this, the tools and techniques for doing so, and shifts in beliefs needed to attain the trickle down effect from this. Clients with whom I work often are seeking shifts in their life/spiritual view, focus, behaviors and coping skills.
(716) 330-2932 View (716) 330-2932
Photo of Daniel M Tehrani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Daniel M Tehrani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
Affirming queer identity is an essential part of my practice as is social justice and liberation from oppressive systems. With a focus on mental health, trauma, and substance use within the LGBTQ community, I work primarily with queer, transgender, and gender non-conforming people of color. Our work together is focused on your needs and goals. Through my background as a writer, I understand the value of a supportive space to explore feelings. In our sessions, you'll find a safe environment for self-expression and personal reflection. From this foundation, insights emerge and growth takes place.
Affirming queer identity is an essential part of my practice as is social justice and liberation from oppressive systems. With a focus on mental health, trauma, and substance use within the LGBTQ community, I work primarily with queer, transgender, and gender non-conforming people of color. Our work together is focused on your needs and goals. Through my background as a writer, I understand the value of a supportive space to explore feelings. In our sessions, you'll find a safe environment for self-expression and personal reflection. From this foundation, insights emerge and growth takes place.
(914) 342-7379 View (914) 342-7379
Photo of Yi Zhou, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Yi Zhou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
In my practice, I play a crucial role in helping clients navigate the complexities of mental health challenges and various life transitions. Specializing in gender dysphoria and the intricate processes of transition, I provide dedicated support to individuals navigating these unique journeys. In recognizing the diversity of human relationships, I work with clients across various relationship forms, including those engaged in non-monogamous dynamics. My goal is to assist individuals, couples and families in achieving a greater sense of unity and satisfaction in their lives.
In my practice, I play a crucial role in helping clients navigate the complexities of mental health challenges and various life transitions. Specializing in gender dysphoria and the intricate processes of transition, I provide dedicated support to individuals navigating these unique journeys. In recognizing the diversity of human relationships, I work with clients across various relationship forms, including those engaged in non-monogamous dynamics. My goal is to assist individuals, couples and families in achieving a greater sense of unity and satisfaction in their lives.
(646) 751-0647 View (646) 751-0647
Photo of Cherish Dawn Bookless in New York
Cherish Dawn Bookless
MA, MHC LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Adults Children Teens Elders (65+) LGBTQ Transgender Allied Bisexual Allied Gay Allied Non- Binary Allied Lesbian Allied.
I am a Mental Health Counselor, who has a Masters Degree in Applied Behavioral Psychology and Advanced Certification in Mental Health Counseling. I offer my clients psychotherapy with an integrative approach, utilizing different theoretical frameworks to individualize a therapeutic plan for every person, group, and couple I work with. I primarily focus on CBT, Person-Centered, DBT, Relational, Psychodynamic, mindfulness, and meditation, but offer other techniques listed below. ​ My own philosophy is based on a holistic approach, so I do not always focus on diagnoses or pathology. However, I do recognize that sometimes it is needed.
Adults Children Teens Elders (65+) LGBTQ Transgender Allied Bisexual Allied Gay Allied Non- Binary Allied Lesbian Allied.
I am a Mental Health Counselor, who has a Masters Degree in Applied Behavioral Psychology and Advanced Certification in Mental Health Counseling. I offer my clients psychotherapy with an integrative approach, utilizing different theoretical frameworks to individualize a therapeutic plan for every person, group, and couple I work with. I primarily focus on CBT, Person-Centered, DBT, Relational, Psychodynamic, mindfulness, and meditation, but offer other techniques listed below. ​ My own philosophy is based on a holistic approach, so I do not always focus on diagnoses or pathology. However, I do recognize that sometimes it is needed.
(347) 752-5707 View (347) 752-5707
Photo of Meaghan Jewett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Meaghan Jewett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Amherst, NY 14051
I specialize in work with LGBTQ individuals providing Gender Affirming Care in accordance with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH).
I am so glad you are here! It’s often the most caring people who forget to care for themselves. Allowing yourself the time and space to attend to your needs is one of the greatest acts of love you can do for yourself and those in your life. I would love the opportunity to be a part of your journey as I have extensive experience working with teens, young adults, and families. My goal in our work together is to provide a safe, trauma-informed, and social justice-aligned space.
I specialize in work with LGBTQ individuals providing Gender Affirming Care in accordance with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH).
I am so glad you are here! It’s often the most caring people who forget to care for themselves. Allowing yourself the time and space to attend to your needs is one of the greatest acts of love you can do for yourself and those in your life. I would love the opportunity to be a part of your journey as I have extensive experience working with teens, young adults, and families. My goal in our work together is to provide a safe, trauma-informed, and social justice-aligned space.
(716) 455-2804 View (716) 455-2804
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.