Therapists in New York, NY
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.
Carter Houston
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10013
Are you a queer, trans, non-binary, or gender expansive person exploring gender/sexuality while coping with homophobia and/or transphobia? If you are TGNC, do you find yourself experiencing gender dysphoria and also want to explore gender euphoria? In a cishet-centered world, it can be difficult to prioritize queer joy and safety. Regardless of where or how you fit into the LGBTQIA+ community, my hope is that we can start that prioritization process together while also holding space for the hard stuff. As a therapist, I believe that you are the expert in your own life. My aim is to listen and provide warmth, patience, and tools.
Are you a queer, trans, non-binary, or gender expansive person exploring gender/sexuality while coping with homophobia and/or transphobia? If you are TGNC, do you find yourself experiencing gender dysphoria and also want to explore gender euphoria? In a cishet-centered world, it can be difficult to prioritize queer joy and safety. Regardless of where or how you fit into the LGBTQIA+ community, my hope is that we can start that prioritization process together while also holding space for the hard stuff. As a therapist, I believe that you are the expert in your own life. My aim is to listen and provide warmth, patience, and tools.
Jingfei Zuo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that Identities and relationships are keys in life. I value my clients' culture experience, and I care about how different identities and relationships can shape, limit, or empower oneself. In the past, I have worked with issues such as family dynamics, ADHD, trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, and so on. I also did 2 years of volunteer jobs in Chinese NGOs to serve the LGBTQ+ community regarding topics such as minority stress, internalized homophobia, intimate relationships, family relationships, gender dysphoria, coming out, and so on - I am willing to discuss these topics with you in the counseling sessions.
I believe that Identities and relationships are keys in life. I value my clients' culture experience, and I care about how different identities and relationships can shape, limit, or empower oneself. In the past, I have worked with issues such as family dynamics, ADHD, trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, and so on. I also did 2 years of volunteer jobs in Chinese NGOs to serve the LGBTQ+ community regarding topics such as minority stress, internalized homophobia, intimate relationships, family relationships, gender dysphoria, coming out, and so on - I am willing to discuss these topics with you in the counseling sessions.
Unconventional Minds Coaching
MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019 (Online Only)
My coaching approach is intersectional & anti-oppressive in practice: proudly affirming of humans who are undocumented migrants, gender-nonconforming, nonbinary, queer and/or LGB, transgender + of trans experience, intersex + of intersex experience, current and former sex workers, non-monogamous, interested in kink/BDSM, asexual &/or aromantic, among others.
Hi! I'm Sam, a Professional Coach who works with neurodivergent adults (ADHD, Autistic, AuDHD, OCD) who have unconventional lives to understand and embrace their unique neurotypes, so they can effectively minimize stress, overcome challenges, and improve their quality of life. Together, we can co-create a supportive, non-judgmental, and effective coaching partnership through which you will learn to fully utilize your strengths, understand and embrace your full humanity, and cultivate practices that are key to defining and achieving your own version of success. Please note: I am a qualified coach, NOT a psychotherapist or counselor.
My coaching approach is intersectional & anti-oppressive in practice: proudly affirming of humans who are undocumented migrants, gender-nonconforming, nonbinary, queer and/or LGB, transgender + of trans experience, intersex + of intersex experience, current and former sex workers, non-monogamous, interested in kink/BDSM, asexual &/or aromantic, among others.
Hi! I'm Sam, a Professional Coach who works with neurodivergent adults (ADHD, Autistic, AuDHD, OCD) who have unconventional lives to understand and embrace their unique neurotypes, so they can effectively minimize stress, overcome challenges, and improve their quality of life. Together, we can co-create a supportive, non-judgmental, and effective coaching partnership through which you will learn to fully utilize your strengths, understand and embrace your full humanity, and cultivate practices that are key to defining and achieving your own version of success. Please note: I am a qualified coach, NOT a psychotherapist or counselor.
Kevin Goldwater
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001 (Online Only)
I meet with clients of diverse backgrounds, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, complex PTSD, gender dysphoria, substance use, self harm, LGBQ and TGNB identities, and men’s health.
I provide attuned and empathic psychotherapy to individuals and groups, offering a warm, curious, creative and even humorous space. I believe the dynamic between client and therapist is one of our most valuable assets in therapy. Each individual brings their own perception of their needs and worldview, so I place great focus on identity, culture, and environment for this space to not only process personal struggles but to also combat oppressive exteriors that compromise our wellbeing. With compassion, energy and curiosity, I show up to meet you where you are to support and hold space for you to feel safe and seen.
I meet with clients of diverse backgrounds, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, complex PTSD, gender dysphoria, substance use, self harm, LGBQ and TGNB identities, and men’s health.
I provide attuned and empathic psychotherapy to individuals and groups, offering a warm, curious, creative and even humorous space. I believe the dynamic between client and therapist is one of our most valuable assets in therapy. Each individual brings their own perception of their needs and worldview, so I place great focus on identity, culture, and environment for this space to not only process personal struggles but to also combat oppressive exteriors that compromise our wellbeing. With compassion, energy and curiosity, I show up to meet you where you are to support and hold space for you to feel safe and seen.
Christina Viera
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Let’s prioritize your wants, needs, and desires. Therapy is a space where you get to receive the attention you may have not been gifting yourself. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+ challenges, or any other stressors, let’s collaborate to create a life that serves you on your terms. I support adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. One of my specialties is providing support to LGBTQ+ populations. As a transgender woman, I know first-hand what it’s like to be part of an oppressed group living in a world that is unkind to people like me.
Let’s prioritize your wants, needs, and desires. Therapy is a space where you get to receive the attention you may have not been gifting yourself. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+ challenges, or any other stressors, let’s collaborate to create a life that serves you on your terms. I support adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. One of my specialties is providing support to LGBTQ+ populations. As a transgender woman, I know first-hand what it’s like to be part of an oppressed group living in a world that is unkind to people like me.
César Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001 (Online Only)
My therapy philosophy values that no person is in need of "fixing" and that healing can be found in a space that centers listening, reflection, play, non-judgment, and curiosity. My aim is to deepen your personal wisdom and become more connected to your mind-body-spirit system. I am experienced working with clients who struggle with trauma recovery, gender dysphoria, neurodivergency, poly/CNM relationships, sexuality, substance use, oppression, disordered eating, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and grief.
My therapy philosophy values that no person is in need of "fixing" and that healing can be found in a space that centers listening, reflection, play, non-judgment, and curiosity. My aim is to deepen your personal wisdom and become more connected to your mind-body-spirit system. I am experienced working with clients who struggle with trauma recovery, gender dysphoria, neurodivergency, poly/CNM relationships, sexuality, substance use, oppression, disordered eating, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and grief.
Joanne Spina LCSW,BCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10014 (Online Only)
I spearheaded a bi-annual transgender conference for clinicians.
I believe people come to therapy because something isn't working for them. They need someone to listen to their story, hear the deeper meanings and make meaningful connections for them. They may be depressed over a relationship, experiencing a loss of self esteem, mourning a loved, seeking a deeper meaning in life, or becoming aware of a past trauma. Sharing ones concerns with an experienced therapist can help connect past history to the present allowing one to gain meaningful insights into ones life. Therapy is a place to share, unburden and grow toward the fulfillment one longs for.
I spearheaded a bi-annual transgender conference for clinicians.
I believe people come to therapy because something isn't working for them. They need someone to listen to their story, hear the deeper meanings and make meaningful connections for them. They may be depressed over a relationship, experiencing a loss of self esteem, mourning a loved, seeking a deeper meaning in life, or becoming aware of a past trauma. Sharing ones concerns with an experienced therapist can help connect past history to the present allowing one to gain meaningful insights into ones life. Therapy is a place to share, unburden and grow toward the fulfillment one longs for.
Lee Delegard
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001 (Online Only)
I offer therapy for adults working with depression, anxiety, body image, disordered eating and eating disorders, trauma, navigating non-binary/gender fluid/transgender identities, sex and sexuality, and traversing life transitions.
As a therapist I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems, mindfulness, and yoga. Inspired by my own yoga practice I take a holistic approach, striving to integrate the body into talk therapy. I find exploration of somatic experiences to be a doorway into understanding how emotions are stored in, and processed through, the body, mind, and spirit. In sessions I endeavor to create a trauma informed collaborative environment of mutual trust and safety. I follow the lead of the client, believing that the client is the expert of their own experiences.
I offer therapy for adults working with depression, anxiety, body image, disordered eating and eating disorders, trauma, navigating non-binary/gender fluid/transgender identities, sex and sexuality, and traversing life transitions.
As a therapist I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems, mindfulness, and yoga. Inspired by my own yoga practice I take a holistic approach, striving to integrate the body into talk therapy. I find exploration of somatic experiences to be a doorway into understanding how emotions are stored in, and processed through, the body, mind, and spirit. In sessions I endeavor to create a trauma informed collaborative environment of mutual trust and safety. I follow the lead of the client, believing that the client is the expert of their own experiences.
Claire Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10013
As a WOC in the LGBTQIA+/kink/poly/consensual relationship community, my approach is anti-racist, anti-oppressive, trauma informed, sex affirming, and abolitionist. My work with queer, transgender/gender non-conforming folx has led to a focus in issues relating to internalized and institutional racism and oppression, sexual identity, trauma, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, disordered eating, relationship issues, and self-esteem. By employing strengths-based, narrative-lead therapy, I will help you to embody being the expert of your experience.
As a WOC in the LGBTQIA+/kink/poly/consensual relationship community, my approach is anti-racist, anti-oppressive, trauma informed, sex affirming, and abolitionist. My work with queer, transgender/gender non-conforming folx has led to a focus in issues relating to internalized and institutional racism and oppression, sexual identity, trauma, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, disordered eating, relationship issues, and self-esteem. By employing strengths-based, narrative-lead therapy, I will help you to embody being the expert of your experience.
Emily Joslin-Roher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
I have particular expertise in working with individuals who are part of transgender, non-binary, queer, lesbian, gay, and bisexual communities or exploring their relationship to those identities.
The decision to begin therapy is rarely easy, but once you begin you may be surprised by the changes that unfold. Finding a therapist who helps you feel safe, supported, and challenged is central to this process. I've been fortunate to work with a wide range of people, including those dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, sexual issues, sexual and gender identity exploration, health concerns, artistic blockages, addiction, parenting, and fertility issues.
I have particular expertise in working with individuals who are part of transgender, non-binary, queer, lesbian, gay, and bisexual communities or exploring their relationship to those identities.
The decision to begin therapy is rarely easy, but once you begin you may be surprised by the changes that unfold. Finding a therapist who helps you feel safe, supported, and challenged is central to this process. I've been fortunate to work with a wide range of people, including those dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, sexual issues, sexual and gender identity exploration, health concerns, artistic blockages, addiction, parenting, and fertility issues.
15 Second Videos
Randi Elfrida Scott-McLaughlin
Lúna Paradise
Andrew Triska, MSW, LCSW
Vee Martin
Sabrina Sarro
Indie M Cusack
Kelsey Bickford
Summer Drum
Mary Maddox
Shaynel Roberts
Ira Bindman
Gabe Lopez
Jenifer Foote
Danielle Naghi
Jason Buening - Sequoia Therapy
Liisa Murray
Kyle William McEvoy
Rachel Kurland
Yuliya Golubev
Mark Mineo - Anxiety, Trauma, LGBTQ+ Affirming
Gregoire Leigh Ware
Megan (Gem) Moran
Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist
The Empowerment Opportunity
Mason Dana
Deanna Aliperti
Zeenat Davis
Alyssa Kosmer
Jasmine Sundri
Scott Ostrowski
Mae Jones
Jen Hastings
Alyssa Deitchman
Shanay A Johnson
Susan Hart
Ashley Retta
Alexandra Tomback
Juan J Robles-Gil Aleman
Alan Dolber Psychoanalyst
Vanessa Reiser Narcissism Expert
Allia Brickman
Matthew Singer
Nina Sultan
Mike Rosen
Renee DelRossi, LCSW
Jennie Knott
Ariel Lacey Sheeger
Aspire Counseling and Coaching by Mary Testa, LMHC
Callum Fedele
Sam Giedris
Alice Garfinkel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10120
I work in addictions, chronic illness, mood disorders, stress, grief, relationship issues, workplace problems, transgender to name a few.
It is important to have physical and mental well-being.Therapy is a process of self discovery and healing. I believe in the process and help people understand that we do it together. It takes time to work on one's issues but I believe in the process of growth and positive change. I help people recognize that you have to love oneself , feel you deserve to be happier and do the work to make that happen.I believe that people are survivors and can overcome obstacles. I look up insurance benefits for patients and do all billing to lessen patient worry over this. I provide telehealth therapy for those who work from home or are disabled
I work in addictions, chronic illness, mood disorders, stress, grief, relationship issues, workplace problems, transgender to name a few.
It is important to have physical and mental well-being.Therapy is a process of self discovery and healing. I believe in the process and help people understand that we do it together. It takes time to work on one's issues but I believe in the process of growth and positive change. I help people recognize that you have to love oneself , feel you deserve to be happier and do the work to make that happen.I believe that people are survivors and can overcome obstacles. I look up insurance benefits for patients and do all billing to lessen patient worry over this. I provide telehealth therapy for those who work from home or are disabled
Forde Kay
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPMFT, CTIP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011 (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples+, and families to cut through the noise and get to the heart of things, fostering engaging and collaborative environments where authenticity can thrive. Specializing in LGBTQ+ support (with extensive, advanced training in Transgender affirmitive care), trauma recovery, and sex therapy, my goal is to empower clients from all walks of life. Moreover, I am dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive space for anyone exploring kink/BDSM-positive care and those within the CNM and poly communities.
I work with individuals, couples+, and families to cut through the noise and get to the heart of things, fostering engaging and collaborative environments where authenticity can thrive. Specializing in LGBTQ+ support (with extensive, advanced training in Transgender affirmitive care), trauma recovery, and sex therapy, my goal is to empower clients from all walks of life. Moreover, I am dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive space for anyone exploring kink/BDSM-positive care and those within the CNM and poly communities.
Natalie Gerlinsky
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10036 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Sex -Positive, Queer & Transgender-Allied I work with both traditional and non-traditional relationships.
Do you feel your experiences aren’t significant enough to be labeled a trauma ?Traumas are any adverse experience(s) that has affected you and continues to linger into present and new situations with the same dynamics and patterns of the past. I have an intrinsic passion to work with with various issues that prevent you from the happiness you deserve. Learned behaviors (e.g., loose/rigid boundaries, self-esteem, a critical inner dialog, and more) with work can be adjusted. While working together, I provide a safe and supportive environment, where you can can feel free to share any thoughts and feelings without judgement.
I'm Sex -Positive, Queer & Transgender-Allied I work with both traditional and non-traditional relationships.
Do you feel your experiences aren’t significant enough to be labeled a trauma ?Traumas are any adverse experience(s) that has affected you and continues to linger into present and new situations with the same dynamics and patterns of the past. I have an intrinsic passion to work with with various issues that prevent you from the happiness you deserve. Learned behaviors (e.g., loose/rigid boundaries, self-esteem, a critical inner dialog, and more) with work can be adjusted. While working together, I provide a safe and supportive environment, where you can can feel free to share any thoughts and feelings without judgement.
Ernie Cote
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019 (Online Only)
I work with adolescents and adults on a wide range of challenges from general counseling and adjustment issues (feeling "stuck") to more clinical issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma and sexual issues. I focus on LGBT clients, particularly in the area of transgender identity, but have a diverse client base overall. I have experience working with clients that have issues related to polyamory, the kink community, and navigating these issues within relationships. I also have interns and supervisees that can see sliding scale clients from various populations.
I work with adolescents and adults on a wide range of challenges from general counseling and adjustment issues (feeling "stuck") to more clinical issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma and sexual issues. I focus on LGBT clients, particularly in the area of transgender identity, but have a diverse client base overall. I have experience working with clients that have issues related to polyamory, the kink community, and navigating these issues within relationships. I also have interns and supervisees that can see sliding scale clients from various populations.
Brielle Layden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001 (Online Only)
I also frequently work with transgender, gender non-conforming and nonbinary, and LGBQ+ identified adult individuals.
In my approach to therapy, I believe that problems do not arise spontaneously, but are instead influenced by the behaviors, opinions, and connections with those around us—even those who are no longer living. My intention is to build honest and trusting relationships with each of my clients so that healthier patterns can be created and new solutions learned.
I also frequently work with transgender, gender non-conforming and nonbinary, and LGBQ+ identified adult individuals.
In my approach to therapy, I believe that problems do not arise spontaneously, but are instead influenced by the behaviors, opinions, and connections with those around us—even those who are no longer living. My intention is to build honest and trusting relationships with each of my clients so that healthier patterns can be created and new solutions learned.
Jacqueline Treml
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10012
I also specialize in women's issues, anxiety, transgender concerns, OCD and phobias using ERP, CBT, and other modalities.
I specialize in EMDR therapy and have 25 years of experience working with adults of various ages who are experiencing grief & loss, depression, anxiety, difficult life transitions, stressful relationships, trauma and work-related issues. I strive to listen well without judgment and to tailor the therapy to my client's individual needs and goals. I realize how difficult it can be to seek therapy, and to focus and talk about the areas in your life which need attention and change, especially when you are hurting and feeling vulnerable. Of primary importance is the quality of the relationship and trust between us as we work together.
I also specialize in women's issues, anxiety, transgender concerns, OCD and phobias using ERP, CBT, and other modalities.
I specialize in EMDR therapy and have 25 years of experience working with adults of various ages who are experiencing grief & loss, depression, anxiety, difficult life transitions, stressful relationships, trauma and work-related issues. I strive to listen well without judgment and to tailor the therapy to my client's individual needs and goals. I realize how difficult it can be to seek therapy, and to focus and talk about the areas in your life which need attention and change, especially when you are hurting and feeling vulnerable. Of primary importance is the quality of the relationship and trust between us as we work together.
Emily Fogle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001 (Online Only)
As people, we have a deep need to be understood, and one of the most profound ways to do this is in a safe, trusting, and affirming therapeutic relationship. As a therapist, I work with individuals using a psychodynamic approach. My role as such is to help you identify your needs and put your inner experience at the center, engaging both mind and body, so that barriers to your well-being can be lifted. In my practice, I look to be responsive, collaborative, and affirmative when working with folks' intersecting identities and how those identities show up within the therapeutic relationship.
As people, we have a deep need to be understood, and one of the most profound ways to do this is in a safe, trusting, and affirming therapeutic relationship. As a therapist, I work with individuals using a psychodynamic approach. My role as such is to help you identify your needs and put your inner experience at the center, engaging both mind and body, so that barriers to your well-being can be lifted. In my practice, I look to be responsive, collaborative, and affirmative when working with folks' intersecting identities and how those identities show up within the therapeutic relationship.
Q'Lective Therapy
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
We are authorized to do business as Q’Lective Therapy, though the official name through the NYS Office of Professions is Intersecting Mental Health Counseling Psychotherapy, PLLC. We are a group of queer, trans & non-binary, neurodivergent therapists who aim to serve our community. We provide accessible mental health care for folks from historically marginalized and oppressed communities. We work with children, adolescents, adults, couples/polycules, families, and groups. We specialize in gender, sexuality, kink, BDSM, non-monogamy, sex work, neurodivergence, trauma, mood disorders, racial identity, and intersectionality.
We are authorized to do business as Q’Lective Therapy, though the official name through the NYS Office of Professions is Intersecting Mental Health Counseling Psychotherapy, PLLC. We are a group of queer, trans & non-binary, neurodivergent therapists who aim to serve our community. We provide accessible mental health care for folks from historically marginalized and oppressed communities. We work with children, adolescents, adults, couples/polycules, families, and groups. We specialize in gender, sexuality, kink, BDSM, non-monogamy, sex work, neurodivergence, trauma, mood disorders, racial identity, and intersectionality.
Ash Choi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
I am a queer and trans nonbinary therapist mainly providing support for trans and nonbinary clients coping with transphobia as well as navigating gender identity and a/sexuality exploration and development. Race, class, and gender are at the forefront in my work with survivors of complex trauma. I help queer and trans immigrant communities with mental health challenges related to their lived experiences of abuse and neglect, long-term grief, and intergenerational trauma. My clinical modalities are psychodynamic and experiential.
I am a queer and trans nonbinary therapist mainly providing support for trans and nonbinary clients coping with transphobia as well as navigating gender identity and a/sexuality exploration and development. Race, class, and gender are at the forefront in my work with survivors of complex trauma. I help queer and trans immigrant communities with mental health challenges related to their lived experiences of abuse and neglect, long-term grief, and intergenerational trauma. My clinical modalities are psychodynamic and experiential.
See more therapy options for New York
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for New York
- Astoria
- Brooklyn
- Corona
- East Elmhurst
- Glendale
- Jackson Heights
- Long Island City
- Maspeth
- Middle Village
- Rego Park
- Sunnyside
- Woodside
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.