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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Mira Farrow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Mira Farrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
I have specialized experience working with transgender and nonbinary individuals and people with disabilities.
Life can be complicated and stressful at times and change can include triggers making the journey complicated. During these times it is human to reach out for empathy, support, and safety. My therapy approach is guided by the needs of each individual I work with. We will collaboratively create affirming, safe space to share and address your needs and concerns, explore potential solutions, and honor growth, no matter what stage your are at along your journey to a more fulfilled life. I employ a psychodynamic approach to therapy for healing of trauma and identity exploration. I treat all individuals with dignity and respect.
I have specialized experience working with transgender and nonbinary individuals and people with disabilities.
Life can be complicated and stressful at times and change can include triggers making the journey complicated. During these times it is human to reach out for empathy, support, and safety. My therapy approach is guided by the needs of each individual I work with. We will collaboratively create affirming, safe space to share and address your needs and concerns, explore potential solutions, and honor growth, no matter what stage your are at along your journey to a more fulfilled life. I employ a psychodynamic approach to therapy for healing of trauma and identity exploration. I treat all individuals with dignity and respect.
(206) 203-7335 View (206) 203-7335
Photo of Kelly Caver, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Kelly Caver
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I am LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity affirming, work with many transgender clients, and I practice cultural humility – a lifelong commitment to understanding my own and my clients’ cultural identities.
I have immediate telehealth openings for new clients. Experiencing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)? Can’t stop worrying? Having a hard time sleeping (insomnia)? Feel like anxiety is controlling you? Or perhaps you are struggling with panic attacks, having irrational fears (phobia), or worrying too much about your health. Helping you recover from OCD, anxiety, and insomnia so you can more effectively pursue your goals and values in life is my passion! I provide evidence-based therapy, choosing techniques that research shows are effective for OCD, anxiety, and sleep issues. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your needs.
I am LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity affirming, work with many transgender clients, and I practice cultural humility – a lifelong commitment to understanding my own and my clients’ cultural identities.
I have immediate telehealth openings for new clients. Experiencing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)? Can’t stop worrying? Having a hard time sleeping (insomnia)? Feel like anxiety is controlling you? Or perhaps you are struggling with panic attacks, having irrational fears (phobia), or worrying too much about your health. Helping you recover from OCD, anxiety, and insomnia so you can more effectively pursue your goals and values in life is my passion! I provide evidence-based therapy, choosing techniques that research shows are effective for OCD, anxiety, and sleep issues. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your needs.
(206) 558-1301 View (206) 558-1301
Photo of Ethan Schwab, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Ethan Schwab
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
As a relationship and sex therapist, my background and training are in relationship treatment as well as sexuality therapy. I work with heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, asexual, and transgender individuals, couples, and partnerships to heal and find fulfillment. I see adults on a variety of discomforts that affect individuals, partnerships, and sexuality (e.g., orgasmic issues, erectile issues, desire issues, sexual pain). Additionally, I see couples for a myriad of relational issues. I am LGBTIQA, kink, and poly friendly and knowledgeable.
As a relationship and sex therapist, my background and training are in relationship treatment as well as sexuality therapy. I work with heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, asexual, and transgender individuals, couples, and partnerships to heal and find fulfillment. I see adults on a variety of discomforts that affect individuals, partnerships, and sexuality (e.g., orgasmic issues, erectile issues, desire issues, sexual pain). Additionally, I see couples for a myriad of relational issues. I am LGBTIQA, kink, and poly friendly and knowledgeable.
(425) 998-9432 View (425) 998-9432
Photo of Justine Cuthbertson (Accepting New Clients), Clinical Social Work Associate in Seattle, WA
Justine Cuthbertson (Accepting New Clients)
Clinical Social Work Associate
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I help people who have been considered "non-traditional" in many ways, people who have been "othered", and felt like outsiders their whole lives. Perhaps you are feeling disconnected, stuck in patterns, at a crossroads, hitting a wall, desiring change or needing nonjudgmental guidance. You don't have to do this alone. Prioritizing your healing is a powerful way we positively impact ourselves and others. Together we create a supported container for whatever you bring, to facilitate deep understanding and create workable sustainable solutions. I specialize in trauma, transgender identities and ADHD. Offering ASD/ADHD assessments.
I help people who have been considered "non-traditional" in many ways, people who have been "othered", and felt like outsiders their whole lives. Perhaps you are feeling disconnected, stuck in patterns, at a crossroads, hitting a wall, desiring change or needing nonjudgmental guidance. You don't have to do this alone. Prioritizing your healing is a powerful way we positively impact ourselves and others. Together we create a supported container for whatever you bring, to facilitate deep understanding and create workable sustainable solutions. I specialize in trauma, transgender identities and ADHD. Offering ASD/ADHD assessments.
(541) 625-1982 View (541) 625-1982
Photo of Marissa Stein, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Marissa Stein
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98177  (Online Only)
I work with clients from diverse backgrounds who are experiencing distress & are seeking a place to feel seen & supported. I am a certified sex therapist, offer relational (couples, polycules, & adult family relationships) counseling, & often work with folks inside the LGBTQ2SAI+ populations, kinky folks, neurodivergent folks, disabled and chronically ill folks, fat folks, & others who are marginalized due to identity & lived experience. In addition I love working with those who are wanting to examine power & privilege inside of a therapeutic relationship where there is space for healing.
I work with clients from diverse backgrounds who are experiencing distress & are seeking a place to feel seen & supported. I am a certified sex therapist, offer relational (couples, polycules, & adult family relationships) counseling, & often work with folks inside the LGBTQ2SAI+ populations, kinky folks, neurodivergent folks, disabled and chronically ill folks, fat folks, & others who are marginalized due to identity & lived experience. In addition I love working with those who are wanting to examine power & privilege inside of a therapeutic relationship where there is space for healing.
(206) 558-0285 View (206) 558-0285
Photo of Wyatt Okeefe, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Wyatt Okeefe
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
As a therapist who identifies as queer and transmasculine, my expertise lies in creating a secure and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community. I conduct private online sessions and hold licenses in Washington, Oregon, Georgia, Florida and New York. Specializing in individual telehealth therapy for adults navigating issues such as coming out, social and/or physical transitioning, and mental health management, I approach each situation with compassion. I am attuned to the distinctive challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and am committed to fostering a safer world through advocacy and support for all my clients.
As a therapist who identifies as queer and transmasculine, my expertise lies in creating a secure and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community. I conduct private online sessions and hold licenses in Washington, Oregon, Georgia, Florida and New York. Specializing in individual telehealth therapy for adults navigating issues such as coming out, social and/or physical transitioning, and mental health management, I approach each situation with compassion. I am attuned to the distinctive challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and am committed to fostering a safer world through advocacy and support for all my clients.
(352) 677-2401 View (352) 677-2401
Photo of Tosh Provancher, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Tosh Provancher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98144  (Online Only)
Hey there! I feel so fortunate to have a specialty working with diverse sexualities, gender identities, and relationship structures over the past 18 years. Whether I am supporting individuals and their families with the coming-out process, assisting clients with social and/or medical transition, helping folx design relationships that actually work or creating a space where you can simply fall apart.. my hope for all of my clients is to learn how to love themselves and each other better and resolve differences more directly and fairly. I am extremely interpersonal in my work and if you'd like more clarity around that - just ask :)
Hey there! I feel so fortunate to have a specialty working with diverse sexualities, gender identities, and relationship structures over the past 18 years. Whether I am supporting individuals and their families with the coming-out process, assisting clients with social and/or medical transition, helping folx design relationships that actually work or creating a space where you can simply fall apart.. my hope for all of my clients is to learn how to love themselves and each other better and resolve differences more directly and fairly. I am extremely interpersonal in my work and if you'd like more clarity around that - just ask :)
(443) 569-7829 View (443) 569-7829
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 Rhyver Rudick, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Rhyver Rudick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
As a queer therapist, I greatly honor and celebrate the uniqueness of our own life stories and personalities. The interventions I offer are carefully tailored to your concerns, needs, and personal style. I integrate empirically validated approaches with traditional therapy and metaphysical healing components. I provide a therapeutic presence that is grounding, nurturing, and sincere. Together, we will combine your own self-knowledge and life expertise with my clinical expertise. I will co-journey with you to explore the depths and peaks of your experiences, and to provide support and reminders of your greatness along the way.
As a queer therapist, I greatly honor and celebrate the uniqueness of our own life stories and personalities. The interventions I offer are carefully tailored to your concerns, needs, and personal style. I integrate empirically validated approaches with traditional therapy and metaphysical healing components. I provide a therapeutic presence that is grounding, nurturing, and sincere. Together, we will combine your own self-knowledge and life expertise with my clinical expertise. I will co-journey with you to explore the depths and peaks of your experiences, and to provide support and reminders of your greatness along the way.
(701) 809-9033 View (701) 809-9033
Photo of Brie Chang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Brie Chang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My background in psychology, massage therapy, and social work is here to guide your mental health journey with a mind, body, and sociocultural lens. People with experiences, identities, and presentations that do not fit the status quo may find working with me a refreshing experience. While I serve all, I have a special interest serving the LGBTQAI+ community, specifically gender diverse individuals. My practice specializes in trauma recovery, mood disorders, Queer issues, attachment wounds, life transitions, spiritual narratives, and stress management.
My background in psychology, massage therapy, and social work is here to guide your mental health journey with a mind, body, and sociocultural lens. People with experiences, identities, and presentations that do not fit the status quo may find working with me a refreshing experience. While I serve all, I have a special interest serving the LGBTQAI+ community, specifically gender diverse individuals. My practice specializes in trauma recovery, mood disorders, Queer issues, attachment wounds, life transitions, spiritual narratives, and stress management.
(206) 307-0513 View (206) 307-0513
Jessica C. Morgan Integrative Therapies LLC
Counselor, MD, LMHC, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
I work alongside my clients, as they bravely take the risks involved in introspection. I believe in meeting each client where they are and moving at a pace that each person feels comfortable with. I want to guide you as you explore and overcome the obstacles disrupting your functioning or behavior; I want to support you as you explore feelings of stress, trauma, sadness, confusion, worry, anger, pressure… I don’t see clients as diagnoses: I see them as complex people experiencing emotional crises who will show me how to give them the help they need getting through it.
I work alongside my clients, as they bravely take the risks involved in introspection. I believe in meeting each client where they are and moving at a pace that each person feels comfortable with. I want to guide you as you explore and overcome the obstacles disrupting your functioning or behavior; I want to support you as you explore feelings of stress, trauma, sadness, confusion, worry, anger, pressure… I don’t see clients as diagnoses: I see them as complex people experiencing emotional crises who will show me how to give them the help they need getting through it.
(206) 736-3922 View (206) 736-3922
Photo of Caitlin Bergman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Caitlin Bergman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122
There is power in being witnessed as you are: a whole, complex, and beautiful human who contains multitudes. Maybe you’re feeling disconnected from yourself and from other people, or perhaps you feel anxious and overwhelmed: stuck in a cycle and exhausted. Most of us have learned how to make ourselves small in order to navigate our world as safely as we can by suppressing our own needs and desires as a survival strategy. You have done what you can to protect yourself and you deserve so much more.
There is power in being witnessed as you are: a whole, complex, and beautiful human who contains multitudes. Maybe you’re feeling disconnected from yourself and from other people, or perhaps you feel anxious and overwhelmed: stuck in a cycle and exhausted. Most of us have learned how to make ourselves small in order to navigate our world as safely as we can by suppressing our own needs and desires as a survival strategy. You have done what you can to protect yourself and you deserve so much more.
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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
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.