Transgender Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Nica Selvaggio, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Nica Selvaggio
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
I specialize in working with folks who struggle with eating disorders, PTSD, C-PTSD, Grief/Bereavement, Adoption and/or Foster Care, Gender Dysphoria, Transgender issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, and issues related to sex/sexuality.
Mental health shouldn’t be a privilege. So much of how we feel in our minds and bodies has to do with the identities we inhabit in the world and how our environments do or do not support us. Counseling is a tool that can be helpful when dealing with the natural anxiety, depression, and grief that can arise as a result of living in a culture that refuses to see you or value you. I work with folks through an anti-oppression and somatic (body-based) lens. As a Non-Binary and Queer therapist, I am passionate about the decolonization of the therapy space. The personal is political.
I specialize in working with folks who struggle with eating disorders, PTSD, C-PTSD, Grief/Bereavement, Adoption and/or Foster Care, Gender Dysphoria, Transgender issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, and issues related to sex/sexuality.
Mental health shouldn’t be a privilege. So much of how we feel in our minds and bodies has to do with the identities we inhabit in the world and how our environments do or do not support us. Counseling is a tool that can be helpful when dealing with the natural anxiety, depression, and grief that can arise as a result of living in a culture that refuses to see you or value you. I work with folks through an anti-oppression and somatic (body-based) lens. As a Non-Binary and Queer therapist, I am passionate about the decolonization of the therapy space. The personal is political.
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Photo of Elliot Sweet, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Elliot Sweet
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
For the last 8 years, I have worked with trans, nonbinary, and gender-questioning adolescents, adults, and their families. I work with folks who are seeking support around gender feelings, gender dysphoria, gender-related trauma, navigating the many aspects of social and medical transition, or are simply wanting mental health support (for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, etc.) without the added stress of explaining or educating on trans and nonbinary-ness.
For the last 8 years, I have worked with trans, nonbinary, and gender-questioning adolescents, adults, and their families. I work with folks who are seeking support around gender feelings, gender dysphoria, gender-related trauma, navigating the many aspects of social and medical transition, or are simply wanting mental health support (for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, etc.) without the added stress of explaining or educating on trans and nonbinary-ness.
(206) 785-2723 View (206) 785-2723
Photo of Aaren Connors, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Aaren Connors
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126  (Online Only)
I am a queer and nonbinary therapist who specializes in working with neurodivergent transgender, nonbinary, and gender expansive individuals.
Our lives are shaped by the stories that we carry with us. Healing begins when we can safely share them with others. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process in which we get to recontextualize those stories through truthful and empowering reframes. Therapy is best done when we can show up authentically. The therapeutic relationship is arguably one of the most important factors that determine success in therapy. For that reason, I strive to create a space where there is mutual respect, trust, and authenticity.
I am a queer and nonbinary therapist who specializes in working with neurodivergent transgender, nonbinary, and gender expansive individuals.
Our lives are shaped by the stories that we carry with us. Healing begins when we can safely share them with others. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process in which we get to recontextualize those stories through truthful and empowering reframes. Therapy is best done when we can show up authentically. The therapeutic relationship is arguably one of the most important factors that determine success in therapy. For that reason, I strive to create a space where there is mutual respect, trust, and authenticity.
(360) 276-6167 View (360) 276-6167
Photo of Cyn Clarfield, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Cyn Clarfield
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126  (Online Only)
My practice specializes in gender identity development and sexual orientation. I primarily work with adolescents and young adults (as well as adults beginning to question their identity). Therapy focuses on anxiety management, gender dysphoria, coming out, improving self-esteem, connection to community, relationship skills, and the process of transitioning (if desired). Whether someone is exploring new feelings or has identified as LGBTQ+ for years, the challenges they face may bring up feelings of anxiety, stress, confusion, and even anger. Working with an experienced therapist trained in gender and sexual minority issues can help.
My practice specializes in gender identity development and sexual orientation. I primarily work with adolescents and young adults (as well as adults beginning to question their identity). Therapy focuses on anxiety management, gender dysphoria, coming out, improving self-esteem, connection to community, relationship skills, and the process of transitioning (if desired). Whether someone is exploring new feelings or has identified as LGBTQ+ for years, the challenges they face may bring up feelings of anxiety, stress, confusion, and even anger. Working with an experienced therapist trained in gender and sexual minority issues can help.
(206) 785-1711 View (206) 785-1711
Photo of Autumn Webb, Counselor in Seattle, WA
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, depression, anxiety, 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, depression, anxiety, 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 Leia Cheyanne Bellinger, Pre-Licensed Professional in Seattle, WA
Leia Cheyanne Bellinger
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98170  (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 Dr. Kristy Carangi, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Dr. Kristy Carangi
Counselor, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121  (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 both couples and individuals, as well as children and adolescents. 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 both couples and individuals, as well as children and adolescents. 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 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 Dani Patrick, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Seattle, WA
Dani Patrick
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Accepting clients as of 4/19/2024. Whether you’re queer, transgender, non-binary, neurodivergent, non-monogamous, or kinky, you deserve a therapist who gets you. Maybe stress or past trauma has impacted how you show up to life or relationships. Maybe creativity plays a big role in your life but self doubt always creeps in when you try to create. Maybe despite external success, you still 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, shift patterns that no longer work for you.
Accepting clients as of 4/19/2024. Whether you’re queer, transgender, non-binary, neurodivergent, non-monogamous, or kinky, you deserve a therapist who gets you. Maybe stress or past trauma has impacted how you show up to life or relationships. Maybe creativity plays a big role in your life but self doubt always creeps in when you try to create. Maybe despite external success, you still 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, shift patterns that no longer work for you.
(281) 720-3954 View (281) 720-3954
Photo of Niles Woods, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Niles Woods
Counselor, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I am a Queer Transgender guy.
Sometimes personal tragedy strikes and you need to talk. Often systemic oppression and microaggressions can cause depression, anxiety and PTSD. I believe that hope is an endurant quality that gets us through the hardest parts of our life. Counseling is about restoring hope and advocacy within the context of an apathetic society. I teach self advocacy skills and boundary setting. My overall approach is compassion focused. I believe that clients know what is in their best interest and I hope to assist you in reaching your goals.
I am a Queer Transgender guy.
Sometimes personal tragedy strikes and you need to talk. Often systemic oppression and microaggressions can cause depression, anxiety and PTSD. I believe that hope is an endurant quality that gets us through the hardest parts of our life. Counseling is about restoring hope and advocacy within the context of an apathetic society. I teach self advocacy skills and boundary setting. My overall approach is compassion focused. I believe that clients know what is in their best interest and I hope to assist you in reaching your goals.
(253) 387-1988 View (253) 387-1988
Photo of Claire E Mannino, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Claire E Mannino
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
I work primarily with Transgender, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Androgynous, Queer, or Questioning individuals.
My goal in therapy is to create a safe space where you can be honest and real. It takes great courage to seek help. To heal, grow and thrive people need a truly non-judgmental space in which to explore strengths, weaknesses, fears, past, present, and hopes for the future. I am real, kind, honest, and trustworthy. My therapy practice is rooted in an anti-oppressive, anti-racist, harm-reduction, trauma-informed, relational and person centered approach. I aim to create a safe space for clients to explore their identities and build self-efficacy.
I work primarily with Transgender, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Androgynous, Queer, or Questioning individuals.
My goal in therapy is to create a safe space where you can be honest and real. It takes great courage to seek help. To heal, grow and thrive people need a truly non-judgmental space in which to explore strengths, weaknesses, fears, past, present, and hopes for the future. I am real, kind, honest, and trustworthy. My therapy practice is rooted in an anti-oppressive, anti-racist, harm-reduction, trauma-informed, relational and person centered approach. I aim to create a safe space for clients to explore their identities and build self-efficacy.
(253) 655-2713 View (253) 655-2713
Photo of Molz Wirtz-Wold, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Molz Wirtz-Wold
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112
I specialize in supporting transgender people explore gender and to start medical and/or social transitioning.
Accepting clients as of 4/22/24. A therapist for 19 years, I am a good fit for people looking for a non-judgmental, open, directive and creative therapist. I support individual adults and couples/relationships from an attachment and relational approach. I am very experienced in supporting transgender, queer, polyamorous and/or sex positive clients. People looking for a safe space to be their authentic selves are welcomed. I am queer, transgender, autistic and have lived experience as a fat bodied person.
I specialize in supporting transgender people explore gender and to start medical and/or social transitioning.
Accepting clients as of 4/22/24. A therapist for 19 years, I am a good fit for people looking for a non-judgmental, open, directive and creative therapist. I support individual adults and couples/relationships from an attachment and relational approach. I am very experienced in supporting transgender, queer, polyamorous and/or sex positive clients. People looking for a safe space to be their authentic selves are welcomed. I am queer, transgender, autistic and have lived experience as a fat bodied person.
(503) 379-9742 View (503) 379-9742
Photo of Jude Patton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Jude Patton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
My specialty is working with transgender and gender non-conforming clients.
Ideally, I would like to use my extensive training and 40+ years of counseling experience to support, assist and advocate for clients whose personal identity lies on the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum, while they explore, investigate, or plan the rest of their life journey in their true identity. Naturally, I do NOT exclude others from becoming clients, since I also have a wealth of experience serving clients from the vast straight and cisgender community.
My specialty is working with transgender and gender non-conforming clients.
Ideally, I would like to use my extensive training and 40+ years of counseling experience to support, assist and advocate for clients whose personal identity lies on the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum, while they explore, investigate, or plan the rest of their life journey in their true identity. Naturally, I do NOT exclude others from becoming clients, since I also have a wealth of experience serving clients from the vast straight and cisgender community.
(530) 539-1618 View (530) 539-1618
Photo of Marin Fahey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Marin Fahey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I am affirming of transgender and non-binary people and enjoy supporting and exploring personal identity and experience.
As a therapist, my goal is to walk alongside clients as we explore their unique experiences and struggles. I believe that people have innate creative abilities when it comes to healing and self-understanding. Sometimes stress and trauma can block or limit our ability to connect to that innate skill. I utilize relational and strengths-based approaches and support people’s understanding of their own self and path. My therapy background revolves around trauma, attachment, and growth in parenting/caregiving. I enjoy working with parents/caregivers of children with complex social, behavioral, relational, and developmental needs.
I am affirming of transgender and non-binary people and enjoy supporting and exploring personal identity and experience.
As a therapist, my goal is to walk alongside clients as we explore their unique experiences and struggles. I believe that people have innate creative abilities when it comes to healing and self-understanding. Sometimes stress and trauma can block or limit our ability to connect to that innate skill. I utilize relational and strengths-based approaches and support people’s understanding of their own self and path. My therapy background revolves around trauma, attachment, and growth in parenting/caregiving. I enjoy working with parents/caregivers of children with complex social, behavioral, relational, and developmental needs.
(360) 469-1537 View (360) 469-1537
Photo of Prism Counseling Brainspotting Intensives Seattle , Counselor in Seattle, WA
Prism Counseling Brainspotting Intensives Seattle
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I have unique and extensive training in transgender care, trauma and PTSD, women's issues, anxiety, depression, relationships, chronic illness, systemic oppression, and LGBTQ concerns (I'm queer and non-binary, fyi).
We all have the capacity for healing and personal empowerment but life can get in the way! Busy schedules, intense emotions, sometimes its just so much to handle! If you're struggling to add in weekly therapy or stalling with therapy progress, a therapy intensive might be right for you! I help people age 15+ see themselves in a new way, creating space for self compassion and the courage for a happier, more meaningful life. Just like a prism, you can break down issues into a full spectrum of possibilities when stepping out of the darkness and allowing yourself to be illuminated by transformative self-discovery.
I have unique and extensive training in transgender care, trauma and PTSD, women's issues, anxiety, depression, relationships, chronic illness, systemic oppression, and LGBTQ concerns (I'm queer and non-binary, fyi).
We all have the capacity for healing and personal empowerment but life can get in the way! Busy schedules, intense emotions, sometimes its just so much to handle! If you're struggling to add in weekly therapy or stalling with therapy progress, a therapy intensive might be right for you! I help people age 15+ see themselves in a new way, creating space for self compassion and the courage for a happier, more meaningful life. Just like a prism, you can break down issues into a full spectrum of possibilities when stepping out of the darkness and allowing yourself to be illuminated by transformative self-discovery.
(360) 233-8725 View (360) 233-8725
Photo of Jamie Katz, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jamie Katz
Counselor, MSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118
Welcome! For some, seeking help from a mental health professional can feel overwhelming, intimidating. Finding an understanding therapist who is best suited to your needs can be the first step towards a happier and more meaningful life. I work with adults and adolescents from a place of respect and compassion and believe that real transformation happens within the context of the therapeutic relationship. I value approaches that have been researched and proven to be effective, and tailor treatment to meet the needs of each individual. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, sexual abuse, and gender dysphoria.
Welcome! For some, seeking help from a mental health professional can feel overwhelming, intimidating. Finding an understanding therapist who is best suited to your needs can be the first step towards a happier and more meaningful life. I work with adults and adolescents from a place of respect and compassion and believe that real transformation happens within the context of the therapeutic relationship. I value approaches that have been researched and proven to be effective, and tailor treatment to meet the needs of each individual. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, sexual abuse, and gender dysphoria.
(206) 210-3557 View (206) 210-3557
Photo of Joanna Darsey-Moss, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Joanna Darsey-Moss
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
I have specialized knowledge and experience working with transgender clients, poly clients, and those who are managing chronic illness.
I offer individual, couple, and family therapy. I am a systemic therapist. I believe your community, your family of origin, and the greater world in which you live all impact your situation. My focus is on promoting your strengths to help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions, but the common thread that links them is Mindfulness. In my work with couples, I apply Gottman theories to your preferred family structure. I enjoy exploring gender identity and also enjoy working with people to strengthen their relationships with themselves and others who are important in their lives.
I have specialized knowledge and experience working with transgender clients, poly clients, and those who are managing chronic illness.
I offer individual, couple, and family therapy. I am a systemic therapist. I believe your community, your family of origin, and the greater world in which you live all impact your situation. My focus is on promoting your strengths to help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions, but the common thread that links them is Mindfulness. In my work with couples, I apply Gottman theories to your preferred family structure. I enjoy exploring gender identity and also enjoy working with people to strengthen their relationships with themselves and others who are important in their lives.
(206) 489-2924 View (206) 489-2924
Photo of Dr. Maria Yearout, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Dr. Maria Yearout
Counselor, PsyD, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals, couples, and families living with Gender Dysphoria, Anxiety, Depression, Young Adult and Adult ADD/ADHD, ASD, and PTSD.
I am passionate about offering specialized services to individuals, couples, and families in gender transition, BIPOC, and the LGBTQ2S+ community, including letter writing in support of gender affirming medical and surgical care. I use culturally competent, research-based modalities to help you shape the change and growth you want to see, and I honor your pace as we approach and engage with the work. Family Therapy fee same as Couples.
I work with individuals, couples, and families living with Gender Dysphoria, Anxiety, Depression, Young Adult and Adult ADD/ADHD, ASD, and PTSD.
I am passionate about offering specialized services to individuals, couples, and families in gender transition, BIPOC, and the LGBTQ2S+ community, including letter writing in support of gender affirming medical and surgical care. I use culturally competent, research-based modalities to help you shape the change and growth you want to see, and I honor your pace as we approach and engage with the work. Family Therapy fee same as Couples.
(425) 640-7009 View (425) 640-7009
Photo of Sheila Addison, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Sheila Addison
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116  (Online Only)
Building relationships to last a lifetime! I work with * Individuals from all walks of life * Couples of all kinds - married, co-habitating, dating, divorced * Families of all sorts * Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people and their partners and families * People who are part of the kink community, or who participate in BDSM in their personal lives * People in open, non-monogamous, polyamorous, or other non-traditional relationships * Cross-cultural couples and families * Genderqueer folks * Current or former workers in the sex industry * People with body image and self-acceptance issues * People with all kinds of mental and physical health problems
Building relationships to last a lifetime! I work with * Individuals from all walks of life * Couples of all kinds - married, co-habitating, dating, divorced * Families of all sorts * Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people and their partners and families * People who are part of the kink community, or who participate in BDSM in their personal lives * People in open, non-monogamous, polyamorous, or other non-traditional relationships * Cross-cultural couples and families * Genderqueer folks * Current or former workers in the sex industry * People with body image and self-acceptance issues * People with all kinds of mental and physical health problems
(510) 403-1458 View (510) 403-1458
Photo of Heather Elise Murphy, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Heather Elise Murphy
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist who works with adolescents, young adults, and families. I help those struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and interpersonal difficulties. I particularly focus on working with individuals struggling with self-harming and suicidal behaviors. I also provide supportive and affirmative therapy to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender clients. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and am a co-author on a best-selling book, DBT Skills in Schools, that incorporates DBT skills into classroom curriculum. I have a background as a school psychologist and work with students regarding behavioral difficulties, academic underachievement, and much more.
I am a licensed psychologist who works with adolescents, young adults, and families. I help those struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and interpersonal difficulties. I particularly focus on working with individuals struggling with self-harming and suicidal behaviors. I also provide supportive and affirmative therapy to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender clients. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and am a co-author on a best-selling book, DBT Skills in Schools, that incorporates DBT skills into classroom curriculum. I have a background as a school psychologist and work with students regarding behavioral difficulties, academic underachievement, and much more.
(206) 535-1541 View (206) 535-1541
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.