Transgender Therapists in Nassau County, NY

Photo of Alyse November, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nassau County, NY
Alyse November
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ACSW, CST
Verified Verified
Woodmere, NY 11598
I am also Transgender Certified, and a PhD in clinical sexology.
EMDR, Trauma, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness modalities of treatment provided. Feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, hopeless and nothing that you try has helped? I work with children, teens, adults, older adults and families, specializing in trauma, anxiety, T1D, Chronic and Acute illness, Depression, Childhood trauma, Parenting, Mood disorders, Family conflict, Divorce/separation, Autism, ADHD, OCD, BPD, Bipolar, Sensory Disorders, LGBTQ, Racial challenges and More.. Life shouldn’t be so hard, I can help. Psychoeducational, disability and gifted testing also available. Telehealth sessions ok.
I am also Transgender Certified, and a PhD in clinical sexology.
EMDR, Trauma, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness modalities of treatment provided. Feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, hopeless and nothing that you try has helped? I work with children, teens, adults, older adults and families, specializing in trauma, anxiety, T1D, Chronic and Acute illness, Depression, Childhood trauma, Parenting, Mood disorders, Family conflict, Divorce/separation, Autism, ADHD, OCD, BPD, Bipolar, Sensory Disorders, LGBTQ, Racial challenges and More.. Life shouldn’t be so hard, I can help. Psychoeducational, disability and gifted testing also available. Telehealth sessions ok.
(561) 264-1012 View (561) 264-1012
Photo of Gender Solutions NY, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Gender Solutions NY
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758  (Online Only)
My specialty is working with Transgender individuals Understanding and accepting one's gender-identity is paramount to "Having a Better Life" Together, in a supportive environment, we can attend to concerns you may have, including: Becoming comfortable with a gender identity, gender expression (Crossdressing) finding and building community and so much more!.
My name is Dr. Gennifer Herley and I am the President of Gender Solutions NY and I am a proud Transwoman as well!. I help Individuals, Couples and Families understand gender identity issues. Are you feeling alone and struggling with your Gender Identity? If you are looking for an experienced empathetic person to talk with about any issue surrounding your Gender Identity....Let's Talk! I have expertise in following areas: LGBTQ Counseling with a focus on the Transgender Issues, Hormone evaluation letters. Adoption/Infertility, Individual & Couples Counseling, , Gender Expression (Crossdressing) as well as Businesses Consulting.
My specialty is working with Transgender individuals Understanding and accepting one's gender-identity is paramount to "Having a Better Life" Together, in a supportive environment, we can attend to concerns you may have, including: Becoming comfortable with a gender identity, gender expression (Crossdressing) finding and building community and so much more!.
My name is Dr. Gennifer Herley and I am the President of Gender Solutions NY and I am a proud Transwoman as well!. I help Individuals, Couples and Families understand gender identity issues. Are you feeling alone and struggling with your Gender Identity? If you are looking for an experienced empathetic person to talk with about any issue surrounding your Gender Identity....Let's Talk! I have expertise in following areas: LGBTQ Counseling with a focus on the Transgender Issues, Hormone evaluation letters. Adoption/Infertility, Individual & Couples Counseling, , Gender Expression (Crossdressing) as well as Businesses Consulting.
(516) 284-8342 View (516) 284-8342
Photo of Kiera Liantonio, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Kiera Liantonio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Glen Cove, NY 11542  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with mainly tweens, teens, and adults and provide care for patients who struggle with depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria and many other issues and I've been in the mental health field for over 5 years.
Hi! My name is Kiera and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in NY and I am so excited to begin this journey with you. Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or 100th time in treatment, your strengths have brought you here! It is such an overwhelming and vulnerable process reaching out for therapy, so the fact you've found my page is already a step in the right direction. My main belief when it comes to treatment is that the client is the expert and that my role in the therapy space is to offer support, model congruence, and help clients see things in a different way.
I work with mainly tweens, teens, and adults and provide care for patients who struggle with depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria and many other issues and I've been in the mental health field for over 5 years.
Hi! My name is Kiera and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in NY and I am so excited to begin this journey with you. Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or 100th time in treatment, your strengths have brought you here! It is such an overwhelming and vulnerable process reaching out for therapy, so the fact you've found my page is already a step in the right direction. My main belief when it comes to treatment is that the client is the expert and that my role in the therapy space is to offer support, model congruence, and help clients see things in a different way.
(516) 200-4432 View (516) 200-4432
Photo of Rena Rauch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nassau County, NY
Rena Rauch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Floral Park, NY 11001
My passion is to help parents of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender) population learn to cope with struggles they may have in non-judgemental, confidential atmosphere.
My approach to therapy is solution focused. That is, I help you find your strengths and together we build upon them. The goal is to improve your self esteem and the quality of your life. I do this in a safe, non-judgmental and comfortable environment. I work with adults having difficulty coping with midlife issues such as empty nest, marital changes, career changes, second careers, health concerns and relationships with adult children. I also work with couples, helping them find their way again.
My passion is to help parents of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender) population learn to cope with struggles they may have in non-judgemental, confidential atmosphere.
My approach to therapy is solution focused. That is, I help you find your strengths and together we build upon them. The goal is to improve your self esteem and the quality of your life. I do this in a safe, non-judgmental and comfortable environment. I work with adults having difficulty coping with midlife issues such as empty nest, marital changes, career changes, second careers, health concerns and relationships with adult children. I also work with couples, helping them find their way again.
(516) 806-5553 View (516) 806-5553
Photo of Evaluaciones psicologicas para imigracion, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Evaluaciones psicologicas para imigracion
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hempstead, NY 11550
Emotional Disturbance, ADHD, Bipolar, depression, Anxiety, Family conflicts , Mood Disorders, trauma or exposure to violence; physical, emotional or sexual abuse, Grief/ Bereavement, Transgender, Impulse control Disorders.
I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) NYS Board certified Licensed Mental Health Counselor, New Jersey Licensed Board of Marriage & Family therapy & Florida Mental Health Counselor. I specialize in working with diverse and vulnerable populations. I also Conduct psychosocial evaluations for immigrationcases (Vawa law, Waivers and Political Asylum cases). Being bilingual and bicultural gives me the opportunity to reach numerous individuals in need of psychological help. I have vast experience in providing psychological assessment and treatment services to children, adolescents, adults and families both in the Unites States and Ecuador.
Emotional Disturbance, ADHD, Bipolar, depression, Anxiety, Family conflicts , Mood Disorders, trauma or exposure to violence; physical, emotional or sexual abuse, Grief/ Bereavement, Transgender, Impulse control Disorders.
I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) NYS Board certified Licensed Mental Health Counselor, New Jersey Licensed Board of Marriage & Family therapy & Florida Mental Health Counselor. I specialize in working with diverse and vulnerable populations. I also Conduct psychosocial evaluations for immigrationcases (Vawa law, Waivers and Political Asylum cases). Being bilingual and bicultural gives me the opportunity to reach numerous individuals in need of psychological help. I have vast experience in providing psychological assessment and treatment services to children, adolescents, adults and families both in the Unites States and Ecuador.
(631) 438-8252 View (631) 438-8252
Photo of Jennifer Hersh Zurndorfer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nassau County, NY
Jennifer Hersh Zurndorfer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years experience in the field, which includes providing counseling to adults, children and couples. As a member of the incredible staff of Long Island Psychology, our primary focus is ensuring our clients' comfort in treatment while developing a therapeutic plan that is tailored to their needs and strengths. I have helped guide individuals in overcoming challenges related to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma/PTSD, codependency, addictive behaviors, gender dysphoria, grief, family conflict as well as many other issues that stem from biological and environmental sources.
I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years experience in the field, which includes providing counseling to adults, children and couples. As a member of the incredible staff of Long Island Psychology, our primary focus is ensuring our clients' comfort in treatment while developing a therapeutic plan that is tailored to their needs and strengths. I have helped guide individuals in overcoming challenges related to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma/PTSD, codependency, addictive behaviors, gender dysphoria, grief, family conflict as well as many other issues that stem from biological and environmental sources.
(516) 830-4067 View (516) 830-4067
Photo of Apple Psychological, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Apple Psychological
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sea Cliff, NY 11579  (Online Only)
Jennifer Biblowitz, LMHC has been a school counselor for 30 years. She has extensive experience with elementary, middle and high school students in a wide range of areas including anxiety, social struggles, learning issues and ADHD. Jen also frequently works with parents to understand and support their child during challenging times. Her comprehensive work in schools guides her ability to help parents understand any and all academic and social challenges. Her approach is always solution centered and goal directed. Mrs. B. is an invited speaker on such topics as; bullying, mindfulness, social emotional literacy, transgender youth.
Jennifer Biblowitz, LMHC has been a school counselor for 30 years. She has extensive experience with elementary, middle and high school students in a wide range of areas including anxiety, social struggles, learning issues and ADHD. Jen also frequently works with parents to understand and support their child during challenging times. Her comprehensive work in schools guides her ability to help parents understand any and all academic and social challenges. Her approach is always solution centered and goal directed. Mrs. B. is an invited speaker on such topics as; bullying, mindfulness, social emotional literacy, transgender youth.
(516) 981-4537 View (516) 981-4537
Photo of Jennifer L Jones in Nassau County, NY
Jennifer L Jones
LCSW
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758  (Online Only)
Specializes working with trauma survivors, transgender and queer folks, as well as those emerging into adulthood.
Accepting New Clients, Telehealth, evenings only. Our life experiences shape our thoughts and behaviors even if we don't intend them to. Through building a strong therapeutic rapport with my clients, I work alongside them as they strive towards progress. I help them to learn behavioral trends while increasing their effectiveness to become the best version of themselves.
Specializes working with trauma survivors, transgender and queer folks, as well as those emerging into adulthood.
Accepting New Clients, Telehealth, evenings only. Our life experiences shape our thoughts and behaviors even if we don't intend them to. Through building a strong therapeutic rapport with my clients, I work alongside them as they strive towards progress. I help them to learn behavioral trends while increasing their effectiveness to become the best version of themselves.
(718) 751-0951 View (718) 751-0951
Photo of Summer Sean Brady, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nassau County, NY
Summer Sean Brady
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, NY 11561
Heal and move forward with the right therapist in a nurturing setting! To get the most out of therapy, it is important to find a professional that is skilled in creating a safe, affirming therapeutic environment.  I am trained to treat people of all intersecting identities with a broad range of socio-emotional issues to find their way in life. To help my clients work through impasses and uncover deep personal truths, I position myself as an accepting and empathetic guide to promote healing, help people evolve towards a more stable life and, ultimately, attain fulfillment on their terms.
Heal and move forward with the right therapist in a nurturing setting! To get the most out of therapy, it is important to find a professional that is skilled in creating a safe, affirming therapeutic environment.  I am trained to treat people of all intersecting identities with a broad range of socio-emotional issues to find their way in life. To help my clients work through impasses and uncover deep personal truths, I position myself as an accepting and empathetic guide to promote healing, help people evolve towards a more stable life and, ultimately, attain fulfillment on their terms.
(516) 666-4554 View (516) 666-4554
Photo of Rosara Torrisi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nassau County, NY
Rosara Torrisi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MEd, CST, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Syosset, NY 11791
I am dedicated to helping people work through life's unique challenges. I am here to assist you in reaching new solutions and working toward your goals. I can support individuals in coping with depression, anxiety, sexual identity or orientation, life skills for young adults, and sexual dysfunction. Couples or those in relationships may be seeking therapy for communication and relationship skills, sexual enrichment, mismatched desire, premarital counseling, or erectile and orgasm difficulties. I am an LGBT-Affirmative, Kink-Aware, and Poly-Inclusive therapist. I was Voted the number 1 Sex Therapist on Long Island for 2015 and 2017.
I am dedicated to helping people work through life's unique challenges. I am here to assist you in reaching new solutions and working toward your goals. I can support individuals in coping with depression, anxiety, sexual identity or orientation, life skills for young adults, and sexual dysfunction. Couples or those in relationships may be seeking therapy for communication and relationship skills, sexual enrichment, mismatched desire, premarital counseling, or erectile and orgasm difficulties. I am an LGBT-Affirmative, Kink-Aware, and Poly-Inclusive therapist. I was Voted the number 1 Sex Therapist on Long Island for 2015 and 2017.
(516) 279-2446 View (516) 279-2446
Photo of Erin J Donohue, LMHC, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Erin J Donohue, LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
Throughout my clinical training and subsequent clinical experiences, I have found that the most fundamental function of therapy is to create a safe, supportive environment for the client's experiences. To be validated in their very personal experiences helps create and foster a rich therapeutic relationship in which healing can begin. It is my passion and goal to help my clients gain a better understanding of themselves so that they may heal and learn how to effectively cope with life's struggles, past (traumatic) experiences, and create balance among their ego states.
Throughout my clinical training and subsequent clinical experiences, I have found that the most fundamental function of therapy is to create a safe, supportive environment for the client's experiences. To be validated in their very personal experiences helps create and foster a rich therapeutic relationship in which healing can begin. It is my passion and goal to help my clients gain a better understanding of themselves so that they may heal and learn how to effectively cope with life's struggles, past (traumatic) experiences, and create balance among their ego states.
(631) 865-5214 View (631) 865-5214
Photo of Modern Wellness Mental Health Counseling in Nassau County, NY
Modern Wellness Mental Health Counseling
LMHC
Verified Verified
Lynbrook, NY 11563
Welcome to Modern Wellness Mental Health Counseling! If you are looking for a team of warm, empathetic, genuine, and skilled mental health professionals, you've come to the right place. We welcome individuals of all backgrounds and identities to work with us. You can expect to go deep within yourself, learn to process and cope with emotions and feelings, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief.
Welcome to Modern Wellness Mental Health Counseling! If you are looking for a team of warm, empathetic, genuine, and skilled mental health professionals, you've come to the right place. We welcome individuals of all backgrounds and identities to work with us. You can expect to go deep within yourself, learn to process and cope with emotions and feelings, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief.
(516) 604-5429 View (516) 604-5429
Photo of Jennifer Chionchio, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Jennifer Chionchio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seaford, NY 11783
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I have experience working with many populations including adolescents, adults & seniors. I have an art background that has provided me with the ability to have creative interventions as well as traditional interventions in my group or individual work. I am currently a part of a group practice who believe in working to provide mental health services in a safe and comfortable environment for individual support, as well as couples and family therapy for a wide range of issues.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I have experience working with many populations including adolescents, adults & seniors. I have an art background that has provided me with the ability to have creative interventions as well as traditional interventions in my group or individual work. I am currently a part of a group practice who believe in working to provide mental health services in a safe and comfortable environment for individual support, as well as couples and family therapy for a wide range of issues.
(631) 343-4253 View (631) 343-4253
Photo of Kareem Alexander Hewitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nassau County, NY
Kareem Alexander Hewitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roosevelt, NY 11575  (Online Only)
You are just as important to your communities as your communities are to you. This framework grounds the work I do. Western concepts of healing have historically enforced rigid individualism as the ideal way of life. However, I believe that understanding who you are, as both an individual and community member, makes space for your more nuanced, wholesome, and expansive narrative. My work with clients focuses on being present with emotions, navigating individual and collective traumas, reconnecting to your physical body, and empowering healing and joy. I'm hoping for healing and liberation for us all!
You are just as important to your communities as your communities are to you. This framework grounds the work I do. Western concepts of healing have historically enforced rigid individualism as the ideal way of life. However, I believe that understanding who you are, as both an individual and community member, makes space for your more nuanced, wholesome, and expansive narrative. My work with clients focuses on being present with emotions, navigating individual and collective traumas, reconnecting to your physical body, and empowering healing and joy. I'm hoping for healing and liberation for us all!
(347) 297-5091 View (347) 297-5091
Photo of Zoe Williams, Psychologist in Nassau County, NY
Zoe Williams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynbrook, NY 11563
Insight is good, but change is better! If you are strugglng with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem, you may have been "just living with it" for awhile. Ask yourself: "How would my life be different if I didn't feel this way?" Seeking support can be a scary step, but when you are ready for change, it can be an enjoyable process, even when it is hard work or explores painful issues. We can work together to determine the best way to achieve your goals in a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental environment.
Insight is good, but change is better! If you are strugglng with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem, you may have been "just living with it" for awhile. Ask yourself: "How would my life be different if I didn't feel this way?" Seeking support can be a scary step, but when you are ready for change, it can be an enjoyable process, even when it is hard work or explores painful issues. We can work together to determine the best way to achieve your goals in a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental environment.
(516) 606-4261 View (516) 606-4261
Photo of Edy Nathan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nassau County, NY
Edy Nathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Find the expert in you that leads to the pathway of healing. If coping with anxiety, grief, loss, sexual trauma or are in the LGBTQI community you are at the forefront of many emotional issues. Low self-esteem affects the power of the self. Are you anxious? Do you have intrusive memories? Are you emotionally overwhelmed? Gestalt, Jungian, Behavioral therapies help you to unravel the mysteries that create your pain. I am an aid to you becoming differentiated and empowered. My clients say that I am perceptive, creative, sensitive, and challenging. Make that call!
Find the expert in you that leads to the pathway of healing. If coping with anxiety, grief, loss, sexual trauma or are in the LGBTQI community you are at the forefront of many emotional issues. Low self-esteem affects the power of the self. Are you anxious? Do you have intrusive memories? Are you emotionally overwhelmed? Gestalt, Jungian, Behavioral therapies help you to unravel the mysteries that create your pain. I am an aid to you becoming differentiated and empowered. My clients say that I am perceptive, creative, sensitive, and challenging. Make that call!
(917) 725-5023 View (917) 725-5023
Photo of Caitlin Dawson Brown, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Caitlin Dawson Brown
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hempstead, NY 11549
In therapy we will build upon your own inner strength and authentic self to process and heal pain or psychological injuries that may be getting in the way of living a healthy, integrated and fulfilling life. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process: we will work together to navigate and explore any problems or patterns in your life that may be contributing to the challenges that you face. I am not a therapist that will tell you what to do, but I will help you explore all the parts that make up YOU, including the parts of you that are resilient and know the way forward.
In therapy we will build upon your own inner strength and authentic self to process and heal pain or psychological injuries that may be getting in the way of living a healthy, integrated and fulfilling life. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process: we will work together to navigate and explore any problems or patterns in your life that may be contributing to the challenges that you face. I am not a therapist that will tell you what to do, but I will help you explore all the parts that make up YOU, including the parts of you that are resilient and know the way forward.
(315) 828-0361 View (315) 828-0361
Photo of Patrick Howard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nassau County, NY
Patrick Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Hyde Park, NY 11040  (Online Only)
Congratulations! You’ve taken the first step to reclaiming yourself and/or your relationships. Sometimes, the first step is the hardest, and you did it! One of the main goals of therapy that I hold in the highest regard is creating a safe and non-judgmental space for you. I aim to help my clients figure out what their next step is. Whether this is as an individual, a couple, or a family. Sometimes in life, we get stuck. Let’s work together to help figure out how to get you unstuck.
Congratulations! You’ve taken the first step to reclaiming yourself and/or your relationships. Sometimes, the first step is the hardest, and you did it! One of the main goals of therapy that I hold in the highest regard is creating a safe and non-judgmental space for you. I aim to help my clients figure out what their next step is. Whether this is as an individual, a couple, or a family. Sometimes in life, we get stuck. Let’s work together to help figure out how to get you unstuck.
(347) 263-8868 View (347) 263-8868
Photo of The New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
The New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC, CCTS-F, CAMS II
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11580
The New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services is a group practice staffed by a mixed group of licensed clinicians trained to handle every area of life. We work with children who present with aggressive and disruptive behaviors, including ADHD, individuals involved in the criminal justice system, struggling with drug, recovery and family related problems. Our clients receives support for Anger Management, marriage, trauma, and parenting. Our clinicians utilize an eclectic approach to address your needs. We also offer medication therapy for ADHD, bipolar, anxiety and other mood disorders where needed.
The New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services is a group practice staffed by a mixed group of licensed clinicians trained to handle every area of life. We work with children who present with aggressive and disruptive behaviors, including ADHD, individuals involved in the criminal justice system, struggling with drug, recovery and family related problems. Our clients receives support for Anger Management, marriage, trauma, and parenting. Our clinicians utilize an eclectic approach to address your needs. We also offer medication therapy for ADHD, bipolar, anxiety and other mood disorders where needed.
(646) 681-7762 View (646) 681-7762
Photo of First Step Directory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nassau County, NY
First Step Directory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801
Deirdre built First Step Therapy & Wellness Group from the ground up and has been hands on every step of the way. Her work ethic is indisputable and she is completely invested in creating a cohesive work environment adhering to values such as mutual respect and equality. She believes healthy doses of restraint combined with self discipline are key components to her success both personally and professionally. Deirdre is highly regarded by her peers and is a long-standing staple within the community where she is committed to creating a safe secure environment for her clients and colleagues. Ms. Holland currently maintains an established private practice
Deirdre built First Step Therapy & Wellness Group from the ground up and has been hands on every step of the way. Her work ethic is indisputable and she is completely invested in creating a cohesive work environment adhering to values such as mutual respect and equality. She believes healthy doses of restraint combined with self discipline are key components to her success both personally and professionally. Deirdre is highly regarded by her peers and is a long-standing staple within the community where she is committed to creating a safe secure environment for her clients and colleagues. Ms. Holland currently maintains an established private practice
(516) 324-3167 View (516) 324-3167

See more therapy options for Nassau County

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.