Transgender Therapists in York, Bellingham, WA
Recover From Mood Disorders Recover From Stress Josh Whaley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have over 20 years experience treating severe mood and anxiety disorders including Major Depression and PTSD with a trauma informed perspective.
If you find that you are having trouble enjoying things, you aren't seeing the people you usually see or your work is suffering we should talk.
If you find that you have panic attacks or other anxiety that's getting in the way of your life please know you're not alone.
I offer strengths based psychotherapy that looks at your values and what's important to you as the basis for change. I use my experience with change principles to help you help yourself.
I have over 20 years experience treating severe mood and anxiety disorders including Major Depression and PTSD with a trauma informed perspective.
If you find that you are having trouble enjoying things, you aren't seeing the people you usually see or your work is suffering we should talk.
If you find that you have panic attacks or other anxiety that's getting in the way of your life please know you're not alone.
I offer strengths based psychotherapy that looks at your values and what's important to you as the basis for change. I use my experience with change principles to help you help yourself.
Relationships and sexual dynamics can be difficult and it is ok to ask for help. So why come to me? I specialize in relational and sex therapy, working with individuals, couples, and non-monogamous relational structures. I have lived experience with polyamory and therefore have a deep understanding of the complex nature of these relationships.
Relationships and sexual dynamics can be difficult and it is ok to ask for help. So why come to me? I specialize in relational and sex therapy, working with individuals, couples, and non-monogamous relational structures. I have lived experience with polyamory and therefore have a deep understanding of the complex nature of these relationships.
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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.