Transgender Therapists in Kelso, WA

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Photo of Kristin Larson - The Therapy Bae, LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Therapy Bae, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Longview, WA 98632  (Online Only)
If you are feeling lost, uncertain, scared, or want to speak with someone who is knowledgeable about non-monogamous relationships, kink, BDSM, neurodivergence, or being LGBTQIA+ you may have just found the right person to talk to. You are discovering who you are as an individual, or perhaps a couple, throuple, or polycule. New diagnoses, relationships, and kinks (literal and metaphorical) are making you unsure how to move forward without stumbling or feeling stuck, possibly even moving backward. Navigating the world right now is difficult, especially with new changes and challenges arising.
If you are feeling lost, uncertain, scared, or want to speak with someone who is knowledgeable about non-monogamous relationships, kink, BDSM, neurodivergence, or being LGBTQIA+ you may have just found the right person to talk to. You are discovering who you are as an individual, or perhaps a couple, throuple, or polycule. New diagnoses, relationships, and kinks (literal and metaphorical) are making you unsure how to move forward without stumbling or feeling stuck, possibly even moving backward. Navigating the world right now is difficult, especially with new changes and challenges arising.
(360) 300-8344 View (360) 300-8344
Photo of Amanda Hart, CC, LMT, Counselor
Amanda Hart
Counselor, CC, LMT
Verified Verified
Longview, WA 98632
In my practice, I focus on creating a safe, supportive environment where together we can explore your past and your thoughts and feelings without judgment. I utilize evidence-based therapies to help my clients adjust to life situations and to address symptoms of a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma-related disorders, and issues affecting their relationships with partners or family. I am here to guide you or your family through the complexities of life, helping you to build resilience, improve coping strategies, and foster positive change.
In my practice, I focus on creating a safe, supportive environment where together we can explore your past and your thoughts and feelings without judgment. I utilize evidence-based therapies to help my clients adjust to life situations and to address symptoms of a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma-related disorders, and issues affecting their relationships with partners or family. I am here to guide you or your family through the complexities of life, helping you to build resilience, improve coping strategies, and foster positive change.
(360) 860-5428 View (360) 860-5428
Photo of Hughey Joiner Jr, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hughey Joiner Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Longview, WA 98632  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Randy (he/him) and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I received my MSW from Portland State University in 2016 and I have over 20 years of social work experience including child welfare, pediatric and adult emergency room social work, school social work, therapy with children/adults, and work as a behavioral health consultant in pediatrics.
Hi! My name is Randy (he/him) and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I received my MSW from Portland State University in 2016 and I have over 20 years of social work experience including child welfare, pediatric and adult emergency room social work, school social work, therapy with children/adults, and work as a behavioral health consultant in pediatrics.
(206) 647-6870 View (206) 647-6870
Duncan James Calver
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Longview, WA 98632
My patients are adults over the age of 18, and who are seeking help for better managing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, obsessions, and the lasting results of trauma. You may consider me as a good fit if you have a curiosity about yourself, are ready to start challenging old ways of thinking, and want to discover your most authentic self.
My patients are adults over the age of 18, and who are seeking help for better managing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, obsessions, and the lasting results of trauma. You may consider me as a good fit if you have a curiosity about yourself, are ready to start challenging old ways of thinking, and want to discover your most authentic self.
(360) 227-7725 x162 View (360) 227-7725 x162
Photo of Rudy D Hernandez, MA MFT, LMHC, Counselor
Rudy D Hernandez
Counselor, MA MFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Longview, WA 98632
Through a person-centered humanistic approach, Rudy hopes to meet people where they are at. He is honored to support those doing the hard work of facing their challenges and be a part of the healing process. He also draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and strength-based therapy to help guide those seeking to connect thoughts and behaviors and encourage self-efficacy. Play therapy also informs his work with children, teens, and families.
Through a person-centered humanistic approach, Rudy hopes to meet people where they are at. He is honored to support those doing the hard work of facing their challenges and be a part of the healing process. He also draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and strength-based therapy to help guide those seeking to connect thoughts and behaviors and encourage self-efficacy. Play therapy also informs his work with children, teens, and families.
(360) 469-6673 View (360) 469-6673

Online Therapists

Photo of Dani Patrick, LMHCA, Counselor
Dani Patrick
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
As a queer, transgender, non-binary, neurodiversity affirming therapist with extensive experience in kink and poly communities, I work to create an environment where you can feel comfortable being yourself.
Accepting new clients as of 9/19/24. Whether you’re transgender, non-binary, queer, neurodivergent, kinky or non-monogamous, you deserve a therapist who gets you. Maybe stress or trauma has impacted how you show up to relationships. Maybe creativity plays a big role in your life but you've been feeling disconnected to your creative practice. Maybe despite external success, you struggle to feel good about yourself. As a therapist, I work to support you in bringing curiosity and compassion towards yourself. Together we can unpack your experience, develop deeper self-understanding, and shift patterns that no longer work for you.
As a queer, transgender, non-binary, neurodiversity affirming therapist with extensive experience in kink and poly communities, I work to create an environment where you can feel comfortable being yourself.
Accepting new clients as of 9/19/24. Whether you’re transgender, non-binary, queer, neurodivergent, kinky or non-monogamous, you deserve a therapist who gets you. Maybe stress or trauma has impacted how you show up to relationships. Maybe creativity plays a big role in your life but you've been feeling disconnected to your creative practice. Maybe despite external success, you struggle to feel good about yourself. As a therapist, I work to support you in bringing curiosity and compassion towards yourself. Together we can unpack your experience, develop deeper self-understanding, and shift patterns that no longer work for you.
(206) 451-2735 View (206) 451-2735
Photo of Makael L White, LMFT, ATR, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Makael L White
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT, ATR, MA
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372
Waitlist for new clients
I am onboarding clients for interns under my supervision only. My waitlist is CLOSED - Ideal clients for my expertise are LGBTQIA+ families, individuals, or relationships. Therapy focus can include (not limited to): navigating the world as a queer or transgender person; navigating neurodivergence; working with a chronic illness and degenerative disorders. Whether this is a work relationship, monogamous marriage, parent/teen relationship in a blended family, or one of the relationships in your polycule, we can find solutions together. The single greatest protective/healing factor in all of these are our supportive relationships.
I am onboarding clients for interns under my supervision only. My waitlist is CLOSED - Ideal clients for my expertise are LGBTQIA+ families, individuals, or relationships. Therapy focus can include (not limited to): navigating the world as a queer or transgender person; navigating neurodivergence; working with a chronic illness and degenerative disorders. Whether this is a work relationship, monogamous marriage, parent/teen relationship in a blended family, or one of the relationships in your polycule, we can find solutions together. The single greatest protective/healing factor in all of these are our supportive relationships.
(206) 312-7423 View (206) 312-7423
Photo of Aaren Connors, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Aaren Connors
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126  (Online Only)
I am also trained to address a wide variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and gender dysphoria.
I enjoy helping others find meaningful, authentic ways of connecting in their relationships and communities. Those I work with tend to feel a lack of connection or authenticity in their life. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process in which we get to recontextualize our experiences through truthful and empowering reframes. This includes curiosity in how your identity and lived experience has shaped your worldview. I am professionally and personally passionate about geek and gaming culture and am comfortable weaving this into therapy when appropriate. Additionally, I work with a lot of young adults in the tech industry.
I am also trained to address a wide variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and gender dysphoria.
I enjoy helping others find meaningful, authentic ways of connecting in their relationships and communities. Those I work with tend to feel a lack of connection or authenticity in their life. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process in which we get to recontextualize our experiences through truthful and empowering reframes. This includes curiosity in how your identity and lived experience has shaped your worldview. I am professionally and personally passionate about geek and gaming culture and am comfortable weaving this into therapy when appropriate. Additionally, I work with a lot of young adults in the tech industry.
(360) 276-6167 View (360) 276-6167
Photo of Sazi Wald, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sazi Wald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98506
Message today for a free consult! Also, yes! If you are transgender, neurodivergent, BIPOC, clairvoyant, polyamorous, and/or have other identities oppressed by society you are welcome here!.
I help recovering over-thinkers blossom into their authenticity. Message me for a free consult! Transitioning out from a life run by overthinking can be really challenging. As you assert yourself in various situations, you may find yourself in better jobs, relationships, or newfound self-awareness. Yet, irritability, insecurity, racing thoughts, and the pull of old habits like doom scrolling, social avoidance, or overworking persists. It’s one thing to leave unhealthy places, it’s another to live in the new healthier spaces!
Message today for a free consult! Also, yes! If you are transgender, neurodivergent, BIPOC, clairvoyant, polyamorous, and/or have other identities oppressed by society you are welcome here!.
I help recovering over-thinkers blossom into their authenticity. Message me for a free consult! Transitioning out from a life run by overthinking can be really challenging. As you assert yourself in various situations, you may find yourself in better jobs, relationships, or newfound self-awareness. Yet, irritability, insecurity, racing thoughts, and the pull of old habits like doom scrolling, social avoidance, or overworking persists. It’s one thing to leave unhealthy places, it’s another to live in the new healthier spaces!
(360) 252-9415 View (360) 252-9415
Photo of Dr. Kristy Carangi, LMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Kristy Carangi
Counselor, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166  (Online Only)
I see a wide range of clients, although I specialize in childhood trauma and CPTSD, relationships, anxiety, ADHD, and LGBTQ issues. I work with adults, children, and adolescents, individually or as couples/family. Therapy focus may include relationship conflict, anxiety control, satisfaction in both your personal life and work, focus and motivation, and building a sense of "feeling whole" or "complete." I've helped countless clients move from a place of feeling stuck and dissatisfied, to one of happiness and flourishing. I also offer specialized care to transgender and questioning clients, including transition-related counseling.
I see a wide range of clients, although I specialize in childhood trauma and CPTSD, relationships, anxiety, ADHD, and LGBTQ issues. I work with adults, children, and adolescents, individually or as couples/family. Therapy focus may include relationship conflict, anxiety control, satisfaction in both your personal life and work, focus and motivation, and building a sense of "feeling whole" or "complete." I've helped countless clients move from a place of feeling stuck and dissatisfied, to one of happiness and flourishing. I also offer specialized care to transgender and questioning clients, including transition-related counseling.
(206) 208-6954 View (206) 208-6954
Photo of Meg Goodfellow, RN, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meg Goodfellow
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Covington, WA 98042  (Online Only)
Have you experienced anxiety, worries about food and body, gender dysphoria, religious or other trauma or executive functioning issues that impact your ability to function and stay connected in life and in relationship? A lot of my clients face difficulties managing these experiences and want support and understanding from a therapist that shares these lived experiences and has the expertise necessary to provide helpful treatment.
Have you experienced anxiety, worries about food and body, gender dysphoria, religious or other trauma or executive functioning issues that impact your ability to function and stay connected in life and in relationship? A lot of my clients face difficulties managing these experiences and want support and understanding from a therapist that shares these lived experiences and has the expertise necessary to provide helpful treatment.
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Photo of Fennec Clyde Oak, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Fennec Clyde Oak
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
No one is broken. What does it mean to be you? What are your heart’s secret longings? What are the heavy parts you carry in your body and the hopes that you have yet to speak aloud? Healing is not linear. Let us explore the winding path that is you: in the memories of your past, in your experience of the present, and in the possibilities of the future. I am a transgender-identified therapist who specializes in work with LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones. In addition, I work with trauma survivors, people who have experienced othering, and people in life transitions.
No one is broken. What does it mean to be you? What are your heart’s secret longings? What are the heavy parts you carry in your body and the hopes that you have yet to speak aloud? Healing is not linear. Let us explore the winding path that is you: in the memories of your past, in your experience of the present, and in the possibilities of the future. I am a transgender-identified therapist who specializes in work with LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones. In addition, I work with trauma survivors, people who have experienced othering, and people in life transitions.
(360) 835-6707 View (360) 835-6707
Photo of Erika Laurentz, MPsych, LMHC, Counselor
Erika Laurentz
Counselor, MPsych, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98506  (Online Only)
Perhaps one of the reasons for that is that I am transgender.
Sometimes, therapy is quick and transformational. Sometimes, it’s slow and gentle, so as not to overwhelm your nervous system. Together, we will craft an approach that work best for you. I have extensive training in trauma therapy, couples therapy, light-trance hypnotherapy (used to enhance somatic memory/not the deep trance work of traditional hypnotherapy-you remain fully conscious the whole time), and Shamanic Healing. Shamanic healing is an important aspect of Depth Psychology, a newer branch of psychology that works with the right brain. Therapies like Cognitive Behavioral work with the left brain. I am trained in both.
Perhaps one of the reasons for that is that I am transgender.
Sometimes, therapy is quick and transformational. Sometimes, it’s slow and gentle, so as not to overwhelm your nervous system. Together, we will craft an approach that work best for you. I have extensive training in trauma therapy, couples therapy, light-trance hypnotherapy (used to enhance somatic memory/not the deep trance work of traditional hypnotherapy-you remain fully conscious the whole time), and Shamanic Healing. Shamanic healing is an important aspect of Depth Psychology, a newer branch of psychology that works with the right brain. Therapies like Cognitive Behavioral work with the left brain. I am trained in both.
(844) 571-5035 View (844) 571-5035
Photo of Leia Cheyanne Bellinger, LMHCA, Counselor
Leia Cheyanne Bellinger
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Federal Way, WA 98023  (Online Only)
As an out & proud transgender woman, I have always been aware of opportunities for advocacy and the ability to celebrate gender expression in all forms.
My clients are often aware of their struggles but may not possess the right skills in combatting plaguing thoughts or self-doubt. My clients can feel extremely aware of their space and understand that healing is a process that isn't always linear. I believe that my clients are able to be honest about their expectations of counseling and opportunities for us to collaborate towards care together.
As an out & proud transgender woman, I have always been aware of opportunities for advocacy and the ability to celebrate gender expression in all forms.
My clients are often aware of their struggles but may not possess the right skills in combatting plaguing thoughts or self-doubt. My clients can feel extremely aware of their space and understand that healing is a process that isn't always linear. I believe that my clients are able to be honest about their expectations of counseling and opportunities for us to collaborate towards care together.
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Photo of Autumn Webb, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Autumn Webb
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
The focus of my services is providing growth and discovery for those undergoing emotional, mental, and health related journeys. I strive to deliver gender affirming mental healthcare in Washington state. I specialize in helping clients who are exploring or struggling with their sexual identity, gender dysphoria, C-PTSD, mood disorders, and suicidal thoughts. My goal as your clinician is to meet you where you are, and provide you with the tools you need to reach your ideal self. Reach out to me and lets have a conversation about working together. Request a free consultation on my website.
The focus of my services is providing growth and discovery for those undergoing emotional, mental, and health related journeys. I strive to deliver gender affirming mental healthcare in Washington state. I specialize in helping clients who are exploring or struggling with their sexual identity, gender dysphoria, C-PTSD, mood disorders, and suicidal thoughts. My goal as your clinician is to meet you where you are, and provide you with the tools you need to reach your ideal self. Reach out to me and lets have a conversation about working together. Request a free consultation on my website.
(360) 233-8548 View (360) 233-8548
Photo of Nicole Marie Hoyes Wilson - Collective Healing Counseling, LICSW, Counselor
Collective Healing Counseling
Counselor, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98178  (Online Only)
You deserve a life of self-love, compassion, and healing. I specialize in working with people experiencing major life changes (new career, new family configuration, losing a loved one, romantic relationship ending or beginning, new migration to the US), depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and adjustment issues. I often serve BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, plus), refugee, and immigrant communities and young adults.
You deserve a life of self-love, compassion, and healing. I specialize in working with people experiencing major life changes (new career, new family configuration, losing a loved one, romantic relationship ending or beginning, new migration to the US), depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and adjustment issues. I often serve BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, plus), refugee, and immigrant communities and young adults.
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Photo of Amy Lennon Riggio, LMHCA, LGBTQIA, Counselor
Amy Lennon Riggio
Counselor, LMHCA, LGBTQIA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lacey, WA 98516
[Ideally, please click "Website" tab and use our Contact Form.] My practice is focused on individual adults age 21 and older. I work with the queer community, transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, the ethically non-monogamous and the kink community, substance use issues, those struggling to manage depression or anxiety, and clients whose issues stem from PTSD, trauma, or grief. Giving witness and presence to pain helps facilitate a space in which people can heal. I am HAES (Health At Every Size) informed. I believe we all have what we need within us - we just need those qualities recognized, called forth, and polished.
[Ideally, please click "Website" tab and use our Contact Form.] My practice is focused on individual adults age 21 and older. I work with the queer community, transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, the ethically non-monogamous and the kink community, substance use issues, those struggling to manage depression or anxiety, and clients whose issues stem from PTSD, trauma, or grief. Giving witness and presence to pain helps facilitate a space in which people can heal. I am HAES (Health At Every Size) informed. I believe we all have what we need within us - we just need those qualities recognized, called forth, and polished.
(360) 334-3447 View (360) 334-3447
Photo of Shawn Thomas Berthel - Life Path Counseling, PLLC, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Life Path Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98409
I have a special interest in working with clients who are poor; under educated; of senior age; veterans; or who are part of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) community.
Hello, I'm Shawn Berthel, (M.S., LCMHC). In my private practice, I believe you can be helped to make shifts in your behavior and thinking processes, to create awareness of your issues, and to change the areas you wish to correct. You will be encouraged to empower yourself, and become a partner in your own self-care. These changes may be slow or difficult at first. However, I know that you have the innate power to maximize your strengths and seek out necessary support, so you can move forward positively into a new life filled with opportunity.
I have a special interest in working with clients who are poor; under educated; of senior age; veterans; or who are part of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) community.
Hello, I'm Shawn Berthel, (M.S., LCMHC). In my private practice, I believe you can be helped to make shifts in your behavior and thinking processes, to create awareness of your issues, and to change the areas you wish to correct. You will be encouraged to empower yourself, and become a partner in your own self-care. These changes may be slow or difficult at first. However, I know that you have the innate power to maximize your strengths and seek out necessary support, so you can move forward positively into a new life filled with opportunity.
(253) 650-0418 View (253) 650-0418
Photo of Valinda Harlan Individuals Couples Communication Emotional Sexual Intimacy, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, NCC, Counselor
Valinda Harlan Individuals Couples Communication Emotional Sexual Intimacy
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98685
I am a psychology professor and a certified Marriage Therapist (training by Gottman Institute, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Prepare/Enrich) with training in Sexual Wellness and Transgender Health.
YES, I have openings and I am accepting new clients for in-person and telehealth sessions for individuals and couples. Please visit my website www.brightfuturecounseling1.com for more information and to book an appointment. If your relationship suffers from sexual issues or broken trust, if there is room to improve communication or intimacy, there is hope for healing and change. I offer help for couples and individuals. If you feel sad or depressed, have experienced loss, or have anxiety, there is hope. I provide a supportive nonjudgmental space for individuals of all genders and sexualities, traditional and nontraditional couples.
I am a psychology professor and a certified Marriage Therapist (training by Gottman Institute, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Prepare/Enrich) with training in Sexual Wellness and Transgender Health.
YES, I have openings and I am accepting new clients for in-person and telehealth sessions for individuals and couples. Please visit my website www.brightfuturecounseling1.com for more information and to book an appointment. If your relationship suffers from sexual issues or broken trust, if there is room to improve communication or intimacy, there is hope for healing and change. I offer help for couples and individuals. If you feel sad or depressed, have experienced loss, or have anxiety, there is hope. I provide a supportive nonjudgmental space for individuals of all genders and sexualities, traditional and nontraditional couples.
(360) 994-1334 View (360) 994-1334
Photo of Dr. Luke R. Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Luke R. Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
(360) 654-7022 View (360) 654-7022

See more therapy options for Kelso

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.