Therapists in Philadelphia, PA
Tanya Koifman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Online Only)
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
Dr. Amana Carvalho
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19093
I have helped clients address struggles with anxiety, depression, self-injury, low self-esteem, lesbian/gay/bisexual & transgender identity issues, family relationship difficulties, religious traumas, & eating disorders / negative body image.
It takes strength & courage to acknowledge personal shortcomings, painful experiences, & life stressors. I commend you for seeking professional help & I would be honored to be part of your journey of healing & self-improvement. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, lesbian, & woman of color. I believe that, in addition to my professional training, these multiple identities & life experiences have enabled me to understand & help a variety of therapy clients. My therapeutic style is collaborative, egalitarian, & non-judgmental. The most significant aspect of treatment is our relationship.
I have helped clients address struggles with anxiety, depression, self-injury, low self-esteem, lesbian/gay/bisexual & transgender identity issues, family relationship difficulties, religious traumas, & eating disorders / negative body image.
It takes strength & courage to acknowledge personal shortcomings, painful experiences, & life stressors. I commend you for seeking professional help & I would be honored to be part of your journey of healing & self-improvement. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, lesbian, & woman of color. I believe that, in addition to my professional training, these multiple identities & life experiences have enabled me to understand & help a variety of therapy clients. My therapeutic style is collaborative, egalitarian, & non-judgmental. The most significant aspect of treatment is our relationship.
Sophie Nathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119 (Online Only)
I have experience working with ADHD, LGBTQ+ Identities, Nonbinary and Transgender identity, Anxiety, and Depression.
My goal is to help clients feel heard, supported and understood. Whether you are coming to therapy to navigate difficult life changes, in order to set healthy boundaries, for support in reframing your anxious thoughts, thinking through how your past family dynamics affect you or navigating your identity, I am here to offer encouraging guidance, direct engagement and nurturing support. Therapy is a collaborative process and I take a relational approach to support you in expressing yourself authentically, navigating change, reframing negative self talk, setting healthy boundaries and supporting you in enhancing the way you cope.
I have experience working with ADHD, LGBTQ+ Identities, Nonbinary and Transgender identity, Anxiety, and Depression.
My goal is to help clients feel heard, supported and understood. Whether you are coming to therapy to navigate difficult life changes, in order to set healthy boundaries, for support in reframing your anxious thoughts, thinking through how your past family dynamics affect you or navigating your identity, I am here to offer encouraging guidance, direct engagement and nurturing support. Therapy is a collaborative process and I take a relational approach to support you in expressing yourself authentically, navigating change, reframing negative self talk, setting healthy boundaries and supporting you in enhancing the way you cope.
Penny Orr
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, ATR-BC, ATCS, RPT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am a parent of a transgender child of whom I am proud.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed or anxious? Through stress management, identity exploration, mindfulness, and active listening, I hope that I can help you to understand yourself better, love yourself more and manage your feelings and behaviors better. I use a combination of counseling, art therapy, play therapy, and pet therapy(depending on interest and age) to help you to be comfortable with the person that you are instead of the person you think you should be.
I am a parent of a transgender child of whom I am proud.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed or anxious? Through stress management, identity exploration, mindfulness, and active listening, I hope that I can help you to understand yourself better, love yourself more and manage your feelings and behaviors better. I use a combination of counseling, art therapy, play therapy, and pet therapy(depending on interest and age) to help you to be comfortable with the person that you are instead of the person you think you should be.
Angelique Frazier
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I affirm diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, relationship configurations, and sexual practices, including but not limited to: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Queer, Asexual, Aromantic, Transgender, Genderqueer, Non-Binary, Polyamory, Kink and Sex Work.
While starting therapy can seem intimidating or daunting, I want you to know that you always deserve to take up space in therapy. I aim to help clients uncover the strengths they already possess. My work with clients involves the following: celebrating culture, acknowledging marginalization & privilege, multiracial identities, interracial couples, navigating cishet-white spaces, balancing conflicting expectations, processing current events, challenging anxious thoughts, separating me (the person) from anxiety (the fear and uncertainty), unpacking past events, reducing miscommunication, and feeling seen/heard.
I affirm diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, relationship configurations, and sexual practices, including but not limited to: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Queer, Asexual, Aromantic, Transgender, Genderqueer, Non-Binary, Polyamory, Kink and Sex Work.
While starting therapy can seem intimidating or daunting, I want you to know that you always deserve to take up space in therapy. I aim to help clients uncover the strengths they already possess. My work with clients involves the following: celebrating culture, acknowledging marginalization & privilege, multiracial identities, interracial couples, navigating cishet-white spaces, balancing conflicting expectations, processing current events, challenging anxious thoughts, separating me (the person) from anxiety (the fear and uncertainty), unpacking past events, reducing miscommunication, and feeling seen/heard.
Michael Zwizanski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Online Only)
I have experience working with queer, gay, lesbian, non-binary and transgender clients of various cultural backgrounds and have supported clients along their journey to finding their authentic self and identity.
In my work, I seek to make a connection that will cultivate a safe, judgement-free space to work through challenging issues & promote self-discovery. My stance in life and in my practice is anti-racist, sex positive, LGBTQ+ competent and gender affirming. I recognize my privilege as a cis-gender, white, male professional and strive to position myself as an equal collaborator in the processes of growth and change within my clients. Coming from an entertainment industry background, I have worked extensively with artists, musicians, actors and entrepreneurs and understand the creative process,
I have experience working with queer, gay, lesbian, non-binary and transgender clients of various cultural backgrounds and have supported clients along their journey to finding their authentic self and identity.
In my work, I seek to make a connection that will cultivate a safe, judgement-free space to work through challenging issues & promote self-discovery. My stance in life and in my practice is anti-racist, sex positive, LGBTQ+ competent and gender affirming. I recognize my privilege as a cis-gender, white, male professional and strive to position myself as an equal collaborator in the processes of growth and change within my clients. Coming from an entertainment industry background, I have worked extensively with artists, musicians, actors and entrepreneurs and understand the creative process,
Ariana Zeno Individual And Couples Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MCP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146 (Online Only)
You may find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with unsatisfying relationships, or wanting to feel more connected to yourself and others. Together we will work on co-creating an environment most conducive to what you need to feel safe and heard to heal and grow. My approach is compassionate, humorous and committed to helping you to live your life more fully. I enjoy working with adults and couples. I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and queer folks exploring questions of gender identity and sexuality. Expertise working with parents/families of transgender folks.
You may find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with unsatisfying relationships, or wanting to feel more connected to yourself and others. Together we will work on co-creating an environment most conducive to what you need to feel safe and heard to heal and grow. My approach is compassionate, humorous and committed to helping you to live your life more fully. I enjoy working with adults and couples. I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and queer folks exploring questions of gender identity and sexuality. Expertise working with parents/families of transgender folks.
Michael Accardo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106 (Online Only)
I have crafted a career working with Transgender and Gender Diverse individuals, recognizing their unique challenges, providing specialized care that validates their identities, and receiving specialty training and support through WPATH. Additionally, my expertise extends to working with Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals, building an accommodating environment to optimize therapeutic outcomes and enhance a sense of identity. I have a particular focus on addressing Racial Stress and Trauma, ensuring culturally competent care. We all have unique perspectives and strengths that can be cultivated to overcome any challenge.
I have crafted a career working with Transgender and Gender Diverse individuals, recognizing their unique challenges, providing specialized care that validates their identities, and receiving specialty training and support through WPATH. Additionally, my expertise extends to working with Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals, building an accommodating environment to optimize therapeutic outcomes and enhance a sense of identity. I have a particular focus on addressing Racial Stress and Trauma, ensuring culturally competent care. We all have unique perspectives and strengths that can be cultivated to overcome any challenge.
Samantha Appel
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
I specialize in working with people who have anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and transgender folks.
I believe that everyone deserves a time and a place to work on their mental health, heal from painful experiences, and move towards finding more meaning in their lives and relationships. I also know that given the current pandemic, we're all struggling more than usual! I offer a warm and judgment-free zone to work on a range of issues. I believe psychotherapy works best when it is tailored to each person as a unique individual. I utilize an integrative model, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), relational, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and humanistic approaches.
I specialize in working with people who have anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and transgender folks.
I believe that everyone deserves a time and a place to work on their mental health, heal from painful experiences, and move towards finding more meaning in their lives and relationships. I also know that given the current pandemic, we're all struggling more than usual! I offer a warm and judgment-free zone to work on a range of issues. I believe psychotherapy works best when it is tailored to each person as a unique individual. I utilize an integrative model, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), relational, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and humanistic approaches.
Marla R Cobin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Hello! Thanks for looking at my profile. Feel free to send a message if you'd like to schedule a free 30 minute consult. Finding a good fit is so important in choosing a therapist. The relationship is critical. I work with adolescents and adults, specializing in women, girls, and queer, gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender and nonbinary folks. I practice decolonizing and liberation focused therapy. My areas of focus include sexuality and trauma. I consider myself a client centered, relational, and culturally sensitive psychotherapist. I am board certified in teletherapy. I am licensed in Pennsylvania and Delaware.
Hello! Thanks for looking at my profile. Feel free to send a message if you'd like to schedule a free 30 minute consult. Finding a good fit is so important in choosing a therapist. The relationship is critical. I work with adolescents and adults, specializing in women, girls, and queer, gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender and nonbinary folks. I practice decolonizing and liberation focused therapy. My areas of focus include sexuality and trauma. I consider myself a client centered, relational, and culturally sensitive psychotherapist. I am board certified in teletherapy. I am licensed in Pennsylvania and Delaware.
Emma Shakarshy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19144 (Online Only)
I have primarily worked with adults and adolescents, and I have in-depth experience working with queer and transgender folks.
I believe in the power of therapy as a space to connect and to name one's truths and desires aloud. I provide clients with an empathic, nonjudgmental space where they can explore the stories they have learned about themselves over time. Much of my work is focused around the intersections of identity, trauma, and mental health, and I am committed to exploring the ways that race, gender, and other social identities show up in the world and in the therapy room.
I have primarily worked with adults and adolescents, and I have in-depth experience working with queer and transgender folks.
I believe in the power of therapy as a space to connect and to name one's truths and desires aloud. I provide clients with an empathic, nonjudgmental space where they can explore the stories they have learned about themselves over time. Much of my work is focused around the intersections of identity, trauma, and mental health, and I am committed to exploring the ways that race, gender, and other social identities show up in the world and in the therapy room.
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Morgan Karcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
As a queer therapist, I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals explore prominent themes of identity while processing experiences with discrimination, gender dysphoria, questioning, and interpersonal conflicts.
Hi, I'm Morgan! I'm a Philly-based trauma focused licensed professional counselor with Nourish Therapy & Wellness. My expertise comes from a psychodynamic, relational therapy approach, implementing tenants of Art Therapy, Feminist Theory, Internal Family Systems Model, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-F CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy . I have helped individuals, families, couples from adolescence into adulthood find healing and understanding in desperate situations. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, BPD, codependency, attachment issues, body image & self-esteem.
As a queer therapist, I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals explore prominent themes of identity while processing experiences with discrimination, gender dysphoria, questioning, and interpersonal conflicts.
Hi, I'm Morgan! I'm a Philly-based trauma focused licensed professional counselor with Nourish Therapy & Wellness. My expertise comes from a psychodynamic, relational therapy approach, implementing tenants of Art Therapy, Feminist Theory, Internal Family Systems Model, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-F CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy . I have helped individuals, families, couples from adolescence into adulthood find healing and understanding in desperate situations. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, BPD, codependency, attachment issues, body image & self-esteem.
Hannah Heffner
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPCC, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
I am Linehan Board Certified in DBT, certified in Trauma Focused CBT, and hold an advanced post graduate training in Affirmative Therapy for Transgender Communities and (TGNCNB) folk.
I have a passion for working with teens and young adults who are exploring their identity and hold a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ affirming counseling. I work well with teens and young adults who experience anxiety, depression, disordered eating and self-harm behaviors. I take a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered, trauma informed approach within a social justice frame to support clients in blending the creative and practical so that clients enjoy the process of exploration and can see results in their mood and behaviors. New Group starting in April- Youth AFFIRM which is a group for LGBTQIA+ teens!
I am Linehan Board Certified in DBT, certified in Trauma Focused CBT, and hold an advanced post graduate training in Affirmative Therapy for Transgender Communities and (TGNCNB) folk.
I have a passion for working with teens and young adults who are exploring their identity and hold a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ affirming counseling. I work well with teens and young adults who experience anxiety, depression, disordered eating and self-harm behaviors. I take a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered, trauma informed approach within a social justice frame to support clients in blending the creative and practical so that clients enjoy the process of exploration and can see results in their mood and behaviors. New Group starting in April- Youth AFFIRM which is a group for LGBTQIA+ teens!
Natalie Gerlinsky
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (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.
Lewis Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC, CTP, CET II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19139 (Online Only)
At the Lotus Center for Wellness and Healing, the focus is on you… the human, the individual, the person sharing space with me. Historically, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and gender expansive (LGBTQIA+) folks have experienced oppression and marginalization that can make one feel isolated, misunderstood, and without choice. Racial and identity-based trauma can have lasting effects on a person without them knowing the significant impact.
At the Lotus Center for Wellness and Healing, the focus is on you… the human, the individual, the person sharing space with me. Historically, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and gender expansive (LGBTQIA+) folks have experienced oppression and marginalization that can make one feel isolated, misunderstood, and without choice. Racial and identity-based trauma can have lasting effects on a person without them knowing the significant impact.
Tyra A Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating participants suffering from severe trauma, PTSD, depression, grief, IPV, sexual abuse/physical abuse/emotional abuse and transgender/nonbinary and LGBQT communities.
In many communities and cultures therapy is frowned upon, perceived as a weakness labeling the individual as an outcast. This is very much not the case. Many people believe they are alone, and they suffer in silence because of the stigma that comes with therapy. You do not have to suffer any longer. You deserve peace.
I specialize in treating participants suffering from severe trauma, PTSD, depression, grief, IPV, sexual abuse/physical abuse/emotional abuse and transgender/nonbinary and LGBQT communities.
In many communities and cultures therapy is frowned upon, perceived as a weakness labeling the individual as an outcast. This is very much not the case. Many people believe they are alone, and they suffer in silence because of the stigma that comes with therapy. You do not have to suffer any longer. You deserve peace.
Letecia M Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CISTT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106 (Online Only)
The best days are yet to come. I am a liberation and embodiment-oriented healing companion, passionately empowering clients that are seeking a trauma-certified practitioner, are Queer/LGBTQ+ identified, as well as people exploring the spectrum of gender, sexuality, sexual expression as well as expansive relationship structures (poly, ethical non-monogamy, swinging, etc). I specialize in CPTSD, Sexual/Relational/Intergenerational Trauma, Gender Dysphoria, Grief, Anxiety, as well as treating and destigmatizing compulsive sexual and non-sexual behaviors of all types. Let's break cycles, challenge the status-quo and break free together.
The best days are yet to come. I am a liberation and embodiment-oriented healing companion, passionately empowering clients that are seeking a trauma-certified practitioner, are Queer/LGBTQ+ identified, as well as people exploring the spectrum of gender, sexuality, sexual expression as well as expansive relationship structures (poly, ethical non-monogamy, swinging, etc). I specialize in CPTSD, Sexual/Relational/Intergenerational Trauma, Gender Dysphoria, Grief, Anxiety, as well as treating and destigmatizing compulsive sexual and non-sexual behaviors of all types. Let's break cycles, challenge the status-quo and break free together.
Anemone Schlotterbeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Online Only)
I work most often with people who have been pushed to the margins, including trans, non-binary and queer people, autistic and other neurodivergent people, and people who have survived traumatic events and relationships. I enjoy working with organizers, activists, and artists. I tend to be a good fit for clients experiencing shame, despair, isolation and existential dread. As a trans woman myself, I have experienced both the harms of misguided psychotherapy and the healing that can come from a co-created and trusting therapeutic relationship.
I work most often with people who have been pushed to the margins, including trans, non-binary and queer people, autistic and other neurodivergent people, and people who have survived traumatic events and relationships. I enjoy working with organizers, activists, and artists. I tend to be a good fit for clients experiencing shame, despair, isolation and existential dread. As a trans woman myself, I have experienced both the harms of misguided psychotherapy and the healing that can come from a co-created and trusting therapeutic relationship.
Walnut Psychotherapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Walnut Psychotherapy Center is a group of LGBTQ+ affirming therapists dedicated to the effective use of long-term psychotherapy. We are wholeheartedly subscribed to understanding the complexity of the human mind and condition. We think of our histories, our attachments, and our traumas as essential facets of the puzzle that makes up how we function in today's world.
Walnut Psychotherapy Center is a group of LGBTQ+ affirming therapists dedicated to the effective use of long-term psychotherapy. We are wholeheartedly subscribed to understanding the complexity of the human mind and condition. We think of our histories, our attachments, and our traumas as essential facets of the puzzle that makes up how we function in today's world.
Cameron O'Mara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19109 (Online Only)
Therapy creates a space in which you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings, try out new ideas, and make sense of past and present within a safe and supportive relationship. I see it as a source of understanding and empowerment - it allows us to better know ourselves and also to be ourselves in the world more fully and freely. I treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, existential concerns, complex trauma, relationship difficulties, issues related to gender and sexuality, life transitions, and challenges that arise in academia. I welcome starting from either more immediate or long-term concerns.
Therapy creates a space in which you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings, try out new ideas, and make sense of past and present within a safe and supportive relationship. I see it as a source of understanding and empowerment - it allows us to better know ourselves and also to be ourselves in the world more fully and freely. I treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, existential concerns, complex trauma, relationship difficulties, issues related to gender and sexuality, life transitions, and challenges that arise in academia. I welcome starting from either more immediate or long-term concerns.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
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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.