Transgender Therapists in Jasper, OH

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Online Therapists

Photo of Jaden List, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jasper, OH
Jaden List
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LSW, OCPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45405  (Online Only)
Therapy sessions with me are trauma-, CBT- and DBT-informed. Sessions can be solution-oriented and/or psychotherapeutic. We can work on specific emotional regulation and/or social skills, process identities, set and plan goals, connect you to resources, and more. We can focus on identity development, transgender journeys, disability as an identity, anxiety and depression, chronic illness, queer/polyamorous relationships, and/or being religious and LGBTQ+. (Please Note: Unfortunately, I cannot accept insurance. Affirming Pathways is out of pocket pay only.)
Therapy sessions with me are trauma-, CBT- and DBT-informed. Sessions can be solution-oriented and/or psychotherapeutic. We can work on specific emotional regulation and/or social skills, process identities, set and plan goals, connect you to resources, and more. We can focus on identity development, transgender journeys, disability as an identity, anxiety and depression, chronic illness, queer/polyamorous relationships, and/or being religious and LGBTQ+. (Please Note: Unfortunately, I cannot accept insurance. Affirming Pathways is out of pocket pay only.)
(330) 427-3693 View (330) 427-3693
Photo of Kegan D Beraduce, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jasper, OH
Kegan D Beraduce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214
I am familiar with WPATH guidelines and will work with transgender individuals looking for assistance in obtaining letters for hormonal or surgical procedures.
Hello, I am a licensed social worker who has been practicing for 7 years. I have worked with many different client backgrounds from addiction to children and family issues. I take an eclectic approach in therapy with my clients. I'm specifically trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused, motivational interviewing and interpersonal therapy.
I am familiar with WPATH guidelines and will work with transgender individuals looking for assistance in obtaining letters for hormonal or surgical procedures.
Hello, I am a licensed social worker who has been practicing for 7 years. I have worked with many different client backgrounds from addiction to children and family issues. I take an eclectic approach in therapy with my clients. I'm specifically trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused, motivational interviewing and interpersonal therapy.
(614) 432-8404 View (614) 432-8404
Photo of Scout Kopech, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Jasper, OH
Scout Kopech
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45242
As a queer transgender woman, I am personally aware of the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. I am passionate about serving this community and helping each of us find our most authentic selves. I want to give you a safe and accepting space where you can feel comfortable exploring who you are and want to be. I also work with families and friends of LGBTQIA+ individuals gain a greater understanding of what it's like to be LGBTQIA+ and how you can provide support, acceptance, and love. Therapy can be expensive, so I want to work with you to make it an affordable part of your self-care routine. You deserve it!
As a queer transgender woman, I am personally aware of the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. I am passionate about serving this community and helping each of us find our most authentic selves. I want to give you a safe and accepting space where you can feel comfortable exploring who you are and want to be. I also work with families and friends of LGBTQIA+ individuals gain a greater understanding of what it's like to be LGBTQIA+ and how you can provide support, acceptance, and love. Therapy can be expensive, so I want to work with you to make it an affordable part of your self-care routine. You deserve it!
(513) 434-6043 View (513) 434-6043
Photo of Logan Fang, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Jasper, OH
Logan Fang
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My passions are working with clients living with depression, anxiety, complex trauma, religious trauma, and gender dysphoria.
I'm Logan (they/them) and I'm an East Asian non-binary person who has lived insight into what it’s like to not be white, cis, or straight in a state like Ohio. I’ve lived in the Midwest my whole life, and I also come from a background of being raised in Christian/immigrant communities. I have experience working with the following: QTBIPOC communities, neurodivergent people, and people living with HIV. I’ve also got experience working specifically with trans clients who are exploring their transition process. I think it's crucial to provide empowering and identity-specific therapy spaces, especially for QTBIPOC right now.
My passions are working with clients living with depression, anxiety, complex trauma, religious trauma, and gender dysphoria.
I'm Logan (they/them) and I'm an East Asian non-binary person who has lived insight into what it’s like to not be white, cis, or straight in a state like Ohio. I’ve lived in the Midwest my whole life, and I also come from a background of being raised in Christian/immigrant communities. I have experience working with the following: QTBIPOC communities, neurodivergent people, and people living with HIV. I’ve also got experience working specifically with trans clients who are exploring their transition process. I think it's crucial to provide empowering and identity-specific therapy spaces, especially for QTBIPOC right now.
(614) 714-5650 View (614) 714-5650
Photo of Riley Murphy, Counselor in Jasper, OH
Riley Murphy
Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45227
My specialties include navigating neurodivergent, transgender, and queer identities, as well as tackling issues related to autism and ADHD. Existing in a neurotypical, cishetero world, you likely feel pressure to be a certain way or meet certain expectations. As a result, you may be carrying feelings of shame, depression, anxiety, or self-hatred. Celebrating who you are or feeling pride or confidence might feel out of reach. I work with people to explore these sorts of problems and to create room for joy, celebration, and pride.
My specialties include navigating neurodivergent, transgender, and queer identities, as well as tackling issues related to autism and ADHD. Existing in a neurotypical, cishetero world, you likely feel pressure to be a certain way or meet certain expectations. As a result, you may be carrying feelings of shame, depression, anxiety, or self-hatred. Celebrating who you are or feeling pride or confidence might feel out of reach. I work with people to explore these sorts of problems and to create room for joy, celebration, and pride.
(513) 951-7307 View (513) 951-7307
Photo of Emerson Douglas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jasper, OH
Emerson Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Now accepting NEW clients for ongoing therapy and gender-affirming surgery letters! As a transmasculine-identified therapist, I'm proud to specialize in LGBQ+ and Transgender-affirming therapy. My passion as a therapist is to empower queer and trans, and nonbinary folks to embrace their authentic selves. Rooted in an anti-oppression framework, my mission is to co-create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to explore healing through the development of a therapeutic relationship founded in authenticity, openness, and connection. My pronouns are he/they. I invite you to share your pronouns and name with me.
Now accepting NEW clients for ongoing therapy and gender-affirming surgery letters! As a transmasculine-identified therapist, I'm proud to specialize in LGBQ+ and Transgender-affirming therapy. My passion as a therapist is to empower queer and trans, and nonbinary folks to embrace their authentic selves. Rooted in an anti-oppression framework, my mission is to co-create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to explore healing through the development of a therapeutic relationship founded in authenticity, openness, and connection. My pronouns are he/they. I invite you to share your pronouns and name with me.
(614) 412-4895 View (614) 412-4895
Photo of Jay VanLandingham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jasper, OH
Jay VanLandingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45224  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in LGBTQ+, Non-Binary and Transgender issues.
Everyone struggles with acceptance. Accepting ourselves, accepting others, accepting life. If you are dealing with anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, low confidence, issues around gender identity and/or identifying as LGBTQ+ and are looking for an accepting therapist to help you find a sense of peace, you've come to the right place. I am a licensed independent social worker (LISW) in the state of Ohio. I identify as trans and have twenty years experience in the LGBTQ community. My experience as a social worker ranges from work in the HIV/AIDS community to those living with cancer.
I specialize in LGBTQ+, Non-Binary and Transgender issues.
Everyone struggles with acceptance. Accepting ourselves, accepting others, accepting life. If you are dealing with anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, low confidence, issues around gender identity and/or identifying as LGBTQ+ and are looking for an accepting therapist to help you find a sense of peace, you've come to the right place. I am a licensed independent social worker (LISW) in the state of Ohio. I identify as trans and have twenty years experience in the LGBTQ community. My experience as a social worker ranges from work in the HIV/AIDS community to those living with cancer.
(513) 452-6744 View (513) 452-6744
Photo of Kel Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jasper, OH
Kel Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43219  (Online Only)
I am a proud queer and transgender therapist who has dedicated my practice to providing inclusive and culturally humble services to all. My passion is in providing care to LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples & families. Additionally, I run therapy & support groups for LGBTQIA+ youth and plan to create more group spaces for people to connect to their community and peers. I have also had the privilege of providing training and education to professionals, clients and families on providing a safe and affirming space for LGBTQIA+ youth.
I am a proud queer and transgender therapist who has dedicated my practice to providing inclusive and culturally humble services to all. My passion is in providing care to LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples & families. Additionally, I run therapy & support groups for LGBTQIA+ youth and plan to create more group spaces for people to connect to their community and peers. I have also had the privilege of providing training and education to professionals, clients and families on providing a safe and affirming space for LGBTQIA+ youth.
(740) 693-2998 View (740) 693-2998
Photo of Katie Long, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jasper, OH
Katie Long
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45214  (Online Only)
As an inclusive gender affirming therapist in Ohio, I help clients who are experiencing gender dysphoria, anxiety, self-criticism and shame, who are wanting to challenge their inner critic, deconstruct shame, and show compassion toward every part of themselves. I've witnessed the pain that shame causes, as well as the healing power of strengthening self-compassion and developing shame resilience. There are many different reasons we experience shame, but it leads to feelings of worthlessness, low self-esteem, fear of vulnerability, anxiety, and countless other difficult emotions. If any of these resonated with you, you are not alone.
As an inclusive gender affirming therapist in Ohio, I help clients who are experiencing gender dysphoria, anxiety, self-criticism and shame, who are wanting to challenge their inner critic, deconstruct shame, and show compassion toward every part of themselves. I've witnessed the pain that shame causes, as well as the healing power of strengthening self-compassion and developing shame resilience. There are many different reasons we experience shame, but it leads to feelings of worthlessness, low self-esteem, fear of vulnerability, anxiety, and countless other difficult emotions. If any of these resonated with you, you are not alone.
(513) 647-9324 View (513) 647-9324
Photo of Victoria Borsukevich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jasper, OH
Victoria Borsukevich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
I am trained in addressing Gender Dysphoria and have supported many in their journey of embracing their gender and sexuality.
I believe in an active and client-led approach to therapy, where I can help you build the tools and strengths within yourself to reach your goals. I feel that effective treatment begins with a genuine connection between us and I will strive to make you feel heard and understood. In my practice, I utilize a personalized approach to each client's mental health needs and goals.
I am trained in addressing Gender Dysphoria and have supported many in their journey of embracing their gender and sexuality.
I believe in an active and client-led approach to therapy, where I can help you build the tools and strengths within yourself to reach your goals. I feel that effective treatment begins with a genuine connection between us and I will strive to make you feel heard and understood. In my practice, I utilize a personalized approach to each client's mental health needs and goals.
(614) 683-2210 View (614) 683-2210
Photo of Nern E. Ostendorf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jasper, OH
Nern E. Ostendorf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Blue Ash, OH 45242
I specialize in gender identity work with transgender, non-binary and gender questioning teens and adults but enjoy working with clients of all identities and backgrounds.
At its best, therapy is a healing relationship. A central goal as your therapist is to understand you and with that knowledge, to help you understand yourself better. The world outside is often intense, overwhelming, and disheartening. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore how your life experiences have impacted your view of yourself, your relationships, and humanity itself.
I specialize in gender identity work with transgender, non-binary and gender questioning teens and adults but enjoy working with clients of all identities and backgrounds.
At its best, therapy is a healing relationship. A central goal as your therapist is to understand you and with that knowledge, to help you understand yourself better. The world outside is often intense, overwhelming, and disheartening. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore how your life experiences have impacted your view of yourself, your relationships, and humanity itself.
(513) 951-8630 View (513) 951-8630
Photo of William J. Kass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jasper, OH
William J. Kass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Blue Ash, OH 45242
My focus is supporting transgender young people and adults as they explore their identities and cope with the distress that can come with living in today's world.
The healing power of human connection cannot be overstated, and I believe this is what therapy is all about. My goal as a therapist is to provide the opportunity for you or your child to share whatever hardship you're experiencing, or goal you're working toward, and be met with compassion, empathy, and a sense of unconditional support. The space that is shared when a therapist and client meet is sacred. My hope is that you will find the room you need to explore and work through any hardship or toward any goal when you are in therapy.
My focus is supporting transgender young people and adults as they explore their identities and cope with the distress that can come with living in today's world.
The healing power of human connection cannot be overstated, and I believe this is what therapy is all about. My goal as a therapist is to provide the opportunity for you or your child to share whatever hardship you're experiencing, or goal you're working toward, and be met with compassion, empathy, and a sense of unconditional support. The space that is shared when a therapist and client meet is sacred. My hope is that you will find the room you need to explore and work through any hardship or toward any goal when you are in therapy.
(513) 790-6215 View (513) 790-6215
Photo of Lauren Pierce, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jasper, OH
Lauren Pierce
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Albany, OH 43054
Waitlist for new clients
From those with BPD, PTSD, abuse, transgender and other members of the LGBTQ community, ADHD, adjustment disorders and grief.
I'm here to an unbiased listener, with the goal to work together to understand your needs and build a trusting relationship. I like to utilize a holistic approach as mind, body, and spirit. These are the foundation of who we are. I work to create a non-judgmental, relaxed and sometimes fun environment where we can work together to reach your goals. I pride myself on being flexible and adapting to me clients needs and meeting them where they are. I am continually trying to better myself professionally by working under the supervision of Sharon K Wiliston-Benadum, LPCC-S, E.0900057-Supv.
From those with BPD, PTSD, abuse, transgender and other members of the LGBTQ community, ADHD, adjustment disorders and grief.
I'm here to an unbiased listener, with the goal to work together to understand your needs and build a trusting relationship. I like to utilize a holistic approach as mind, body, and spirit. These are the foundation of who we are. I work to create a non-judgmental, relaxed and sometimes fun environment where we can work together to reach your goals. I pride myself on being flexible and adapting to me clients needs and meeting them where they are. I am continually trying to better myself professionally by working under the supervision of Sharon K Wiliston-Benadum, LPCC-S, E.0900057-Supv.
(614) 368-7583 x708 View (614) 368-7583 x708
Photo of Skip Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jasper, OH
Skip Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Vandalia, OH 45377
I specialize in Sexual Health issues, including dysfunctions, kink, sexual orientation, gender identity, relationships, consensual non-monogamy, homosexuality, transgender, fetishes, sexual health education, problematic sexual behaviors, and any other issue relating to sexual health.
I am a clinical mental health therapist specializing in Sexual Health, Sex Education, and General Mental Health Issues. I conduct adult individual, group, and couples therapy. I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT), which means that one’s thoughts evoke emotions that drives one’s behaviors. Therapy focuses on a person’s thoughts, presumptions, cognitive distortions, emotion regulation, and behavioral changes. I am passionate about working with clients and am an empathetic therapist who enjoys working collaboratively to help his clients reach mental peace and creates a relaxed atmosphere that allows clients to feel safe.
I specialize in Sexual Health issues, including dysfunctions, kink, sexual orientation, gender identity, relationships, consensual non-monogamy, homosexuality, transgender, fetishes, sexual health education, problematic sexual behaviors, and any other issue relating to sexual health.
I am a clinical mental health therapist specializing in Sexual Health, Sex Education, and General Mental Health Issues. I conduct adult individual, group, and couples therapy. I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT), which means that one’s thoughts evoke emotions that drives one’s behaviors. Therapy focuses on a person’s thoughts, presumptions, cognitive distortions, emotion regulation, and behavioral changes. I am passionate about working with clients and am an empathetic therapist who enjoys working collaboratively to help his clients reach mental peace and creates a relaxed atmosphere that allows clients to feel safe.
(937) 882-5250 View (937) 882-5250
Jamie Bourn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
I follow the WPATH Standards of Care in my work with transgender individuals, which seeks to empower the community and reduce barriers to resources.
I believe that as people we are motivated by connection and relationships. Therapy can be a great way to explore what a healthy and collaborative relationship can be like, which can then be translated to behaviors in your daily life. I also invite discussions of identity, culture, and oppression, and how each may impact your lived experience. My aspiration is to walk alongside you in your counseling journey, tailoring sessions and interventions to help you meet your goals.
I follow the WPATH Standards of Care in my work with transgender individuals, which seeks to empower the community and reduce barriers to resources.
I believe that as people we are motivated by connection and relationships. Therapy can be a great way to explore what a healthy and collaborative relationship can be like, which can then be translated to behaviors in your daily life. I also invite discussions of identity, culture, and oppression, and how each may impact your lived experience. My aspiration is to walk alongside you in your counseling journey, tailoring sessions and interventions to help you meet your goals.
(614) 626-5287 View (614) 626-5287
Photo of Dr. Bowen Marshall, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Jasper, OH
Dr. Bowen Marshall
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , MA, LPCC-S, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43086  (Online Only)
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, trauma, grief, and chronic illness.
I believe that everyone has an innate ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, trauma, grief, and chronic illness.
I believe that everyone has an innate ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
(380) 221-7373 View (380) 221-7373
Photo of Christy (Christine) Ellis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jasper, OH
Christy (Christine) Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loveland, OH 45140  (Online Only)
As a member and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, I have personal and professional experience in matters such as coming out, impacts of coming out on the family, and transgender issues.
Accepting New telehealth clients w/ daytime slots available. You’ve been handed a great deal in your life, it’s okay to feel like you can’t always handle it. Maybe it feels like you’re wearing a mask and don’t know who you can trust to be your most authentic self around. You are not a broken and do not need to be fixed. You are not alone and together we can explore the roots of this pain and learn tools to help you manage the hard things in life. In my role as counselor, I see myself not as the expert, but as a guide to support you in finding the peace and happiness that already exists somewhere inside of you. OH and IND licensed
As a member and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, I have personal and professional experience in matters such as coming out, impacts of coming out on the family, and transgender issues.
Accepting New telehealth clients w/ daytime slots available. You’ve been handed a great deal in your life, it’s okay to feel like you can’t always handle it. Maybe it feels like you’re wearing a mask and don’t know who you can trust to be your most authentic self around. You are not a broken and do not need to be fixed. You are not alone and together we can explore the roots of this pain and learn tools to help you manage the hard things in life. In my role as counselor, I see myself not as the expert, but as a guide to support you in finding the peace and happiness that already exists somewhere inside of you. OH and IND licensed
(937) 764-2422 View (937) 764-2422
Photo of Queer Owned & Staffed - Affirming Pathways, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jasper, OH
Queer Owned & Staffed - Affirming Pathways
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
We have immediate availability with multiple therapists and free consults to help you find the best fit! As a Queer-Owned and staffed group practice, we focus on supporting gender, sexual/affectional, and relationship structure diverse communities (LGBTQ+), including ethical non-monogamy, BDSM/Kink, etc. Our priority is fostering a therapeutic space where everyone feels safe, respected, and truly understood. We deeply value providing knowledgeable and affirming mental healthcare for all individuals, relationships, families, and youth.
We have immediate availability with multiple therapists and free consults to help you find the best fit! As a Queer-Owned and staffed group practice, we focus on supporting gender, sexual/affectional, and relationship structure diverse communities (LGBTQ+), including ethical non-monogamy, BDSM/Kink, etc. Our priority is fostering a therapeutic space where everyone feels safe, respected, and truly understood. We deeply value providing knowledgeable and affirming mental healthcare for all individuals, relationships, families, and youth.
(740) 273-6555 View (740) 273-6555
Photo of Keight Neoma Dijkstra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jasper, OH
Keight Neoma Dijkstra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45255
Have you been struggling emotionally just to get through each day? Are you feeling unhappy, dissatisfied, or lost? Do you feel unheard by those around you? Are you struggling to move past a traumatic experience that is weighing you down? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, a mood disorder, or personality disorder?
Have you been struggling emotionally just to get through each day? Are you feeling unhappy, dissatisfied, or lost? Do you feel unheard by those around you? Are you struggling to move past a traumatic experience that is weighing you down? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, a mood disorder, or personality disorder?
(513) 540-4838 View (513) 540-4838
Photo of Kaeden Kass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jasper, OH
Kaeden Kass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45227
Hi! I’m Kaeden (he/him/his), and I am a licensed social worker in the states of Ohio (LSW) and Kentucky (CSW). I specialize in providing therapy to LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent adolescents and adults, as well as anyone looking for a safe and nonjudgemental therapeutic home. My approach is rooted in vulnerability, collaboration, transparency, and self-determination, and I am passionate about creating spaces where people with marginalized identities and experiences can feel seen and understood. If you have struggled in the past to find a provider who "gets" you, I might be the provider for you.
Hi! I’m Kaeden (he/him/his), and I am a licensed social worker in the states of Ohio (LSW) and Kentucky (CSW). I specialize in providing therapy to LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent adolescents and adults, as well as anyone looking for a safe and nonjudgemental therapeutic home. My approach is rooted in vulnerability, collaboration, transparency, and self-determination, and I am passionate about creating spaces where people with marginalized identities and experiences can feel seen and understood. If you have struggled in the past to find a provider who "gets" you, I might be the provider for you.
(513) 647-6770 View (513) 647-6770
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.