Photo of Ilana Skarling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Ilana Skarling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I'm a trans woman and licensed independent clinical social worker in the states of Washington and Minnesota, with over six years of experiences spanning transgender care, sexual assault advocacy, community mental health, and behavioral health care.
You are not too much. Nor is what you have been through too much. If you struggle with gender or sexual identity, sexual or domestic violence, or other forms of lasting trauma, I can help. Just know that I believe you to be, at this moment, exactly who you need to be in order to survive. I also believe that things can get better.
I'm a trans woman and licensed independent clinical social worker in the states of Washington and Minnesota, with over six years of experiences spanning transgender care, sexual assault advocacy, community mental health, and behavioral health care.
You are not too much. Nor is what you have been through too much. If you struggle with gender or sexual identity, sexual or domestic violence, or other forms of lasting trauma, I can help. Just know that I believe you to be, at this moment, exactly who you need to be in order to survive. I also believe that things can get better.
(206) 752-5508 View (206) 752-5508
Photo of Coral L Blankinship, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Coral L Blankinship
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98177
Are you feeling not right in your body or as if you don’t belong to the gender you were assigned at birth? Are you afraid to come out to someone you love? Did your partner or spouse tell you he/she/they are transgender and you are left with confusion and fear? Are you a parent of a child who came out to you and identifies as LBGTQIA and you don’t know how to process your feelings or take a deeper look within? Do you use substances and feel stigmatized by being called an “addict” with no hope for support? Do you use substances and are not ready to stop, but want someone to talk to that will accept you where you are at?
Are you feeling not right in your body or as if you don’t belong to the gender you were assigned at birth? Are you afraid to come out to someone you love? Did your partner or spouse tell you he/she/they are transgender and you are left with confusion and fear? Are you a parent of a child who came out to you and identifies as LBGTQIA and you don’t know how to process your feelings or take a deeper look within? Do you use substances and feel stigmatized by being called an “addict” with no hope for support? Do you use substances and are not ready to stop, but want someone to talk to that will accept you where you are at?
(206) 278-9927 View (206) 278-9927
Photo of Sazi Wald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Sazi Wald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
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 Kristina Betz, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Kristina Betz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126  (Online Only)
I am particularly passionate about working with individuals and couples grappling with sex and intimacy issues, gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression, shame, self-esteem, trauma, and everyday life together.
I currently am accepting individual clients as well as couples/relationships. I work with all identities. Everyone is welcome in this space; I believe that each person has innate abilities and strengths to help them overcome challenges to improve their lives and relationships. I fully support and affirm BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, polyamorous, kink, BDSM, and other marginalized communities. As a relationship therapy specialist, I know that enriching connections to Self, Partners, Family, and Community are key to achieving a high quality of life.
I am particularly passionate about working with individuals and couples grappling with sex and intimacy issues, gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression, shame, self-esteem, trauma, and everyday life together.
I currently am accepting individual clients as well as couples/relationships. I work with all identities. Everyone is welcome in this space; I believe that each person has innate abilities and strengths to help them overcome challenges to improve their lives and relationships. I fully support and affirm BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, polyamorous, kink, BDSM, and other marginalized communities. As a relationship therapy specialist, I know that enriching connections to Self, Partners, Family, and Community are key to achieving a high quality of life.
(253) 352-3738 View (253) 352-3738
Photo of Amberly K Potter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Amberly K Potter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I have experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, families, couples and adults coping with suicide, PTSD, sexual and emotional abuse, mood disorders, addiction and recovery, personality disorders, grief, transgender persons and their families, Additionally, separation/divorce, bonding between child and caregiver and attachment wounds.
Some things we are incapable of seeing on our own. It can take a crisis to find hope and empower us again. I know, firsthand, that there is a way through dark times. I am person-centered at heart, and I have genuine empathy and unconditional positive regard for the individuals I work with. I believe the core of human existence is relational, and we thrive with positive connection in a validating environment. My goal as your therapist is to meet you where you are on your journey and help you through the changes needed to meet your goals, while promoting hope and wellness. I view the world through a holistic lens.
I have experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, families, couples and adults coping with suicide, PTSD, sexual and emotional abuse, mood disorders, addiction and recovery, personality disorders, grief, transgender persons and their families, Additionally, separation/divorce, bonding between child and caregiver and attachment wounds.
Some things we are incapable of seeing on our own. It can take a crisis to find hope and empower us again. I know, firsthand, that there is a way through dark times. I am person-centered at heart, and I have genuine empathy and unconditional positive regard for the individuals I work with. I believe the core of human existence is relational, and we thrive with positive connection in a validating environment. My goal as your therapist is to meet you where you are on your journey and help you through the changes needed to meet your goals, while promoting hope and wellness. I view the world through a holistic lens.
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Photo of Saathi Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Saathi Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! My practice as a social worker and therapist is grounded in the belief that the most effective treatment, and transformative healing, takes place within relationships- in the therapy room, and in our communities. Nurturing a therapeutic alliance rooted in connection, safety, and radical acceptance is central to my approach. As a saathi (companion, ally) on your healing journey, I am here to offer care and support as you process and integrate your experiences, navigate current challenges, and develop your innate strengths along with new skills.
Accepting new clients! My practice as a social worker and therapist is grounded in the belief that the most effective treatment, and transformative healing, takes place within relationships- in the therapy room, and in our communities. Nurturing a therapeutic alliance rooted in connection, safety, and radical acceptance is central to my approach. As a saathi (companion, ally) on your healing journey, I am here to offer care and support as you process and integrate your experiences, navigate current challenges, and develop your innate strengths along with new skills.
(206) 984-2482 View (206) 984-2482
Photo of Elliott McMurray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Elliott McMurray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed practitioner and have experience working with adults and elders on a variety of concerns, including life transitions and stress, traumatic experiences, toxic and abusive relationships, chronic illness and disability, gender, sexuality, anxiety, and depression. As a person-centered practitioner, I believe that recovery is possible and that you know yourself best. I work to create an environment of unconditional acceptance as we work together to explore what's unresolved, unbalanced, and causing pain in your life. I draw from several evidence-based practices to provide individualized treatment to every client.
I am a trauma-informed practitioner and have experience working with adults and elders on a variety of concerns, including life transitions and stress, traumatic experiences, toxic and abusive relationships, chronic illness and disability, gender, sexuality, anxiety, and depression. As a person-centered practitioner, I believe that recovery is possible and that you know yourself best. I work to create an environment of unconditional acceptance as we work together to explore what's unresolved, unbalanced, and causing pain in your life. I draw from several evidence-based practices to provide individualized treatment to every client.
(360) 564-5557 View (360) 564-5557
Photo of Jen Marino, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jen Marino
Counselor, LMHC, CCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
As a therapist, and human in general, I am passionate about creating space for the stories and emotions that are so often pushed away, hidden from view, and disavowed. I believe that to be seen, heard, and accepted in these tender places can be a profoundly healing experience, even (and especially) when there is "nothing to do about it," other than bear witness and grieve. An important piece of this process is moving towards a way of being that centers less around achieving, perfecting and “doing” and much more around “being.” Being present, being messy, being perfectly imperfect and ok with slow processes and uncertainties.
As a therapist, and human in general, I am passionate about creating space for the stories and emotions that are so often pushed away, hidden from view, and disavowed. I believe that to be seen, heard, and accepted in these tender places can be a profoundly healing experience, even (and especially) when there is "nothing to do about it," other than bear witness and grieve. An important piece of this process is moving towards a way of being that centers less around achieving, perfecting and “doing” and much more around “being.” Being present, being messy, being perfectly imperfect and ok with slow processes and uncertainties.
(206) 317-5727 View (206) 317-5727
Photo of Alyxx S Berg, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Alyxx S Berg
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Hi - I'm Alyxx. My pronouns are they/she. My ideal client is someone living on the fringes, someone who feels like they have never quite fit in with the thin/white/cis/het esthetic that is so predominant in our culture. If you are ready to do the work to change, I'm ready to walk that path with you!
Hi - I'm Alyxx. My pronouns are they/she. My ideal client is someone living on the fringes, someone who feels like they have never quite fit in with the thin/white/cis/het esthetic that is so predominant in our culture. If you are ready to do the work to change, I'm ready to walk that path with you!
(206) 984-3113 View (206) 984-3113
Photo of Anna White, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Anna White
Counselor, MS Ed, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Hi. I'm Anna. I work with many different kinds of people, but I specialize in working with queer, trans, Jewish, and neurodivergent clients especially, as well as those who have experienced trauma. I currently have availability, so please reach out. I especially enjoy working with people who are seeking to understand themselves more deeply or who are struggling with their identity or the roles in their life. My approach incorporates all of your experiences, both recent and in the deeper past. During our work together I will encourage you to follow your thoughts and feelings wherever they may lead.
Hi. I'm Anna. I work with many different kinds of people, but I specialize in working with queer, trans, Jewish, and neurodivergent clients especially, as well as those who have experienced trauma. I currently have availability, so please reach out. I especially enjoy working with people who are seeking to understand themselves more deeply or who are struggling with their identity or the roles in their life. My approach incorporates all of your experiences, both recent and in the deeper past. During our work together I will encourage you to follow your thoughts and feelings wherever they may lead.
(747) 477-2073 View (747) 477-2073
Photo of Harley Moore, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Harley Moore
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98144  (Online Only)
Hello and thank you for reading! I am accepting new clients of all ages who are seeking virtual therapy anywhere in the state of Washington. I often work with queer and trans clients and those struggling with complex trauma. I am experienced in working with neurodivergent clients, teens and young adults, polyamorous clients, and formerly incarcerated folks.
Hello and thank you for reading! I am accepting new clients of all ages who are seeking virtual therapy anywhere in the state of Washington. I often work with queer and trans clients and those struggling with complex trauma. I am experienced in working with neurodivergent clients, teens and young adults, polyamorous clients, and formerly incarcerated folks.
(253) 766-5978 View (253) 766-5978
Photo of Loren Hansey-Butler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Loren Hansey-Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133  (Online Only)
Welcome. My therapy practice was built with a vision of providing care to my community in ways that reflect my values as closely as possible. Those values center around my belief that healing comes when we have access to safety and authentic connection because the deepest answers we may need arise ultimately from within ourselves. I seek to be an active participant in creating a culture of care for all people. I come into this role from my own healing journey that is always on-going, still often surprising, and practiced with intention because it’s been my most meaningful source of freedom, inspiration, strength, and clarity.
Welcome. My therapy practice was built with a vision of providing care to my community in ways that reflect my values as closely as possible. Those values center around my belief that healing comes when we have access to safety and authentic connection because the deepest answers we may need arise ultimately from within ourselves. I seek to be an active participant in creating a culture of care for all people. I come into this role from my own healing journey that is always on-going, still often surprising, and practiced with intention because it’s been my most meaningful source of freedom, inspiration, strength, and clarity.
(360) 233-2883 View (360) 233-2883
Photo of Eli Ogburn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Eli Ogburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
Sometimes it is really hard to persist. Making change or accepting reality can be confusing. Reaching out to a therapist can be scary. With empathy and an anti-oppression approach, I can help you examine what's keeping you stuck, overwhelmed, frozen, or confused. I specialize in working people who move through the world differently, particularly trans and queer people.
Sometimes it is really hard to persist. Making change or accepting reality can be confusing. Reaching out to a therapist can be scary. With empathy and an anti-oppression approach, I can help you examine what's keeping you stuck, overwhelmed, frozen, or confused. I specialize in working people who move through the world differently, particularly trans and queer people.
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Photo of Tiran Sahar, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Tiran Sahar
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Anyone willing to be curious about their experience is welcome at my practice. I offer gender diverse, multi-racial, neurodiverse, and non monogamous people space to process their experiences of marginalization and complexity. Together we can make meaningful change by centering your goals, understanding trauma, and building resilience from the container of our therapy relationship.
Anyone willing to be curious about their experience is welcome at my practice. I offer gender diverse, multi-racial, neurodiverse, and non monogamous people space to process their experiences of marginalization and complexity. Together we can make meaningful change by centering your goals, understanding trauma, and building resilience from the container of our therapy relationship.
(360) 544-9056 View (360) 544-9056
Photo of Sarah James Pearse, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Sarah James Pearse
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125  (Online Only)
Are you searching for where you belong in a society that doesn’t reflect how you feel? Maybe you’re questioning whether your gender fits with who you really are, or perhaps you’ve known for awhile and are ready to take steps towards transitioning. You may be struggling with coming out to the people in your life, or simply feeling alone with no one to talk to about how you’re feeling. Perhaps you’re feeling fear of being judged or discriminated against. Or overwhelmed with the medical options and costs of transitioning. One thing is for sure: You're ready to stop doubting your own internal voice, and ready to claim your confidence.
Are you searching for where you belong in a society that doesn’t reflect how you feel? Maybe you’re questioning whether your gender fits with who you really are, or perhaps you’ve known for awhile and are ready to take steps towards transitioning. You may be struggling with coming out to the people in your life, or simply feeling alone with no one to talk to about how you’re feeling. Perhaps you’re feeling fear of being judged or discriminated against. Or overwhelmed with the medical options and costs of transitioning. One thing is for sure: You're ready to stop doubting your own internal voice, and ready to claim your confidence.
(206) 736-3635 View (206) 736-3635
Photo of Cheryl Stolz, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Cheryl Stolz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98106  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Psychologist in the State of Washington. I have considerable experience working with many issues, in both brief and long-term therapy, including life transitions, stress, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, abuse and trauma, disordered eating and body image, family and relationship issues, personality disorders, alcohol and drug issues, and thought disorders/schizophrenia. I have worked with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds including LGBTQ individuals.
I am a Licensed Psychologist in the State of Washington. I have considerable experience working with many issues, in both brief and long-term therapy, including life transitions, stress, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, abuse and trauma, disordered eating and body image, family and relationship issues, personality disorders, alcohol and drug issues, and thought disorders/schizophrenia. I have worked with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds including LGBTQ individuals.
(206) 535-1375 View (206) 535-1375
Photo of Rachel Zeller, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Rachel Zeller
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Hi, welcome. I’m Rachel (they/them)! I believe human suffering wells up from a myriad of different sources. It is human nature to suffer, but what we do with it creates our life path. A major factor that may heighten your deep sense of pain is the lack of someone willing to be present in your pain and listen to your story. People innately desire to be seen and have their stories witnessed. Unfortunately many in society fear this intimate act of witnessing, leaving many to experience the void and pain of isolation in addition to their core suffering. One of the first and greatest steps toward healing is to have stories witnessed.
Hi, welcome. I’m Rachel (they/them)! I believe human suffering wells up from a myriad of different sources. It is human nature to suffer, but what we do with it creates our life path. A major factor that may heighten your deep sense of pain is the lack of someone willing to be present in your pain and listen to your story. People innately desire to be seen and have their stories witnessed. Unfortunately many in society fear this intimate act of witnessing, leaving many to experience the void and pain of isolation in addition to their core suffering. One of the first and greatest steps toward healing is to have stories witnessed.
(360) 583-4991 View (360) 583-4991
Photo of Chris Curia, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Chris Curia
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
First, I want to thank you for taking a brave, loving next step toward growth and healing. I’m a queer therapist working with individuals and couples, wanting to meet you where you are, knowing that therapy is an investment and not always for everyone. Too many of us can get stuck depending on the provisions of an individualized and unjust mental healthcare system that often leaves us needing more care, paying more money, and lacking trust to meet our needs and forge supportive relationships. I take it seriously that you're here, in the middle of whatever you are going through, looking for support, so let's start there.
First, I want to thank you for taking a brave, loving next step toward growth and healing. I’m a queer therapist working with individuals and couples, wanting to meet you where you are, knowing that therapy is an investment and not always for everyone. Too many of us can get stuck depending on the provisions of an individualized and unjust mental healthcare system that often leaves us needing more care, paying more money, and lacking trust to meet our needs and forge supportive relationships. I take it seriously that you're here, in the middle of whatever you are going through, looking for support, so let's start there.
(425) 215-0389 View (425) 215-0389
Photo of Carlos del Rio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Carlos del Rio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, LSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm passionate about supporting LGBTQIA+ and trauma survivors with an approach rooted in the sincere belief that you are the expert on your own life. I use both somatic and cognitive therapies, to assist you in connecting with why and how you react to the world around you.
I'm passionate about supporting LGBTQIA+ and trauma survivors with an approach rooted in the sincere belief that you are the expert on your own life. I use both somatic and cognitive therapies, to assist you in connecting with why and how you react to the world around you.
(206) 672-6915 View (206) 672-6915
Photo of Ridley Beierschmitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Ridley Beierschmitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
My clinical approach is largely psychodynamic with existential and humanistic elements. Some of my clinical interests include: adult developmental life transitions, the impact of chronic illness (on both the person with chronic illness and those caring for someone with chronic illness/ongoing health needs), and men's issues.
My clinical approach is largely psychodynamic with existential and humanistic elements. Some of my clinical interests include: adult developmental life transitions, the impact of chronic illness (on both the person with chronic illness and those caring for someone with chronic illness/ongoing health needs), and men's issues.
(206) 504-3862 View (206) 504-3862
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.