LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Issaquah, WA

Photo of Dr. Luke R. Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Luke R. Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98029  (Online Only)
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
(360) 654-7022 View (360) 654-7022
Photo of Valerie Walser, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valerie Walser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist.
Philosophy & Therapeutic Approach "‹My approach is collaborative. I believe in working together with clients to create a strong therapeutic alliance to help achieve desired therapeutic goals. I enjoy working with children (as young as 6), adolescents, adults, and families struggling with navigating life transitions, including the transition to adolescence, the transition to parenthood, as well as parent coaching. My background also includes helping adolescents with social skills and peer relationships.
I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist.
Philosophy & Therapeutic Approach "‹My approach is collaborative. I believe in working together with clients to create a strong therapeutic alliance to help achieve desired therapeutic goals. I enjoy working with children (as young as 6), adolescents, adults, and families struggling with navigating life transitions, including the transition to adolescence, the transition to parenthood, as well as parent coaching. My background also includes helping adolescents with social skills and peer relationships.
(425) 368-3911 View (425) 368-3911
Photo of Rachel Loch, MA, LMHCA, ATR-P, Counselor
Rachel Loch
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
Whether you are getting to know yourself better or are seeking support while navigating life’s challenges, I would love to come alongside your journey to offer a compassionate and empowering space to process and grow in. I enjoy working with people who may be members of the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and people with systemic or religious trauma. However, you don’t need to belong to these particular communities to work with me, I hope to see clients thrive in exactly who they are.
Whether you are getting to know yourself better or are seeking support while navigating life’s challenges, I would love to come alongside your journey to offer a compassionate and empowering space to process and grow in. I enjoy working with people who may be members of the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and people with systemic or religious trauma. However, you don’t need to belong to these particular communities to work with me, I hope to see clients thrive in exactly who they are.
(509) 796-7912 View (509) 796-7912
Photo of Evoë Thorne, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Evoë Thorne
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
I especially enjoy working with people who are questioning their gender and/or sexuality, practicing consensual non-monogamy, neurodivergent, sexual outsiders (kink/BDSM), LGBTQIA+, or experiencing changes in desire or sexual function.
Are you experiencing emotional pain, discomfort, or uncertainty around your sexuality? If you are questioning gender or sexual orientation, trying to figure out dating, wishing you could have more or better sex, struggling to relate to a partner, reclaiming your body after childbirth, healing from sexual trauma, exploring kinks, opening your relationship, or adapting to the changes of aging, I can help you navigate these challenges and build skills for improved health, pleasure, and connection. Visit my website to schedule a free 15 minute consultation.
I especially enjoy working with people who are questioning their gender and/or sexuality, practicing consensual non-monogamy, neurodivergent, sexual outsiders (kink/BDSM), LGBTQIA+, or experiencing changes in desire or sexual function.
Are you experiencing emotional pain, discomfort, or uncertainty around your sexuality? If you are questioning gender or sexual orientation, trying to figure out dating, wishing you could have more or better sex, struggling to relate to a partner, reclaiming your body after childbirth, healing from sexual trauma, exploring kinks, opening your relationship, or adapting to the changes of aging, I can help you navigate these challenges and build skills for improved health, pleasure, and connection. Visit my website to schedule a free 15 minute consultation.
(425) 470-6365 View (425) 470-6365
Photo of Andrea L Nguyen, MA , LMFT, MHP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea L Nguyen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT, MHP
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
Waitlist for new clients
Connection is essential to our survival as humans. Being truly seen & heard without judgment is connection in its truest form. No matter what has led you to seek out therapy…whether you going through a difficult life event, life changes, or are feeling "stuck" or disconnected in your life, therapy provides a safe space to be yourself. I seek to build a relationship of trust, curiosity, & exploration in which you feel empowered to use your autonomy to make choices that feel most supportive to you. i enjoy working with adults 18+ struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, LGBTQIA issues, & eating disorders.
Connection is essential to our survival as humans. Being truly seen & heard without judgment is connection in its truest form. No matter what has led you to seek out therapy…whether you going through a difficult life event, life changes, or are feeling "stuck" or disconnected in your life, therapy provides a safe space to be yourself. I seek to build a relationship of trust, curiosity, & exploration in which you feel empowered to use your autonomy to make choices that feel most supportive to you. i enjoy working with adults 18+ struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, LGBTQIA issues, & eating disorders.
(206) 800-0145 View (206) 800-0145
Photo of Liz Rivelin, MA, LMHC, CMHS, Counselor
Liz Rivelin
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
I am an LGBTQIA+ aware and anti-racist therapist.
I am a warm, empathic, and gently challenging counselor. I draw from a range of therapeutic treatment modalities to tailor therapy to you as a unique individual. I welcome enquiries from adults, couples, children and teenagers experiencing a wide range of difficulties. I am dedicated to understanding the internal and external strengths that are inherent in each of us. My clients come to me because they enjoy the deep sense of trust, safety and mutual respect that I create. I look forward to meeting you and beginning the exciting and challenging journey towards positive and enduring change.
I am an LGBTQIA+ aware and anti-racist therapist.
I am a warm, empathic, and gently challenging counselor. I draw from a range of therapeutic treatment modalities to tailor therapy to you as a unique individual. I welcome enquiries from adults, couples, children and teenagers experiencing a wide range of difficulties. I am dedicated to understanding the internal and external strengths that are inherent in each of us. My clients come to me because they enjoy the deep sense of trust, safety and mutual respect that I create. I look forward to meeting you and beginning the exciting and challenging journey towards positive and enduring change.
(425) 470-6362 View (425) 470-6362
Photo of Hannah Bliss, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Hannah Bliss
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027
Therapy is a courageous endeavor, with endless possibilities for healing and growth. I work with adults experiencing relationship issues, burnout, low self concept, depression and anxiety. I connect well with people who often feel misunderstood, and those who are ready to explore themselves deeply. As a queer therapist, I am especially passionate about supporting folks in the LGBTQIA+ community. In our time together, people often develop increased acceptance and authenticity in how they relate to themselves, connect with others, and live in alignment with their values.
Therapy is a courageous endeavor, with endless possibilities for healing and growth. I work with adults experiencing relationship issues, burnout, low self concept, depression and anxiety. I connect well with people who often feel misunderstood, and those who are ready to explore themselves deeply. As a queer therapist, I am especially passionate about supporting folks in the LGBTQIA+ community. In our time together, people often develop increased acceptance and authenticity in how they relate to themselves, connect with others, and live in alignment with their values.
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Photo of Mary West Brandenburg, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Mary West Brandenburg
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027  (Online Only)
I am well acquainted with the issues of depression/bipolar, anxieties and fears, obsessive compulsive disorder, sexual abuse, healthy sexuality, LGBTQ issues, empty nest, life transitions, grief and loss, recovery, addiction and the brain, codependency, cancer (survivor!), inner child work, conflict and communication issues, divorce, blended and intact families.
When I was a girl there was no one to tell my deepest darkest secrets. My life's work is to be a trusted, healing person to those in pain. My therapy room is many things: a confessional, a delivery room, a crucible, a place of radical honesty with a whole lot of grace. Most of all it is a safe place for you to tell your story, to find strength and hope, to cry, and to heal. I embrace a holistic approach which considers your spirit, mind, body, & community.
I am well acquainted with the issues of depression/bipolar, anxieties and fears, obsessive compulsive disorder, sexual abuse, healthy sexuality, LGBTQ issues, empty nest, life transitions, grief and loss, recovery, addiction and the brain, codependency, cancer (survivor!), inner child work, conflict and communication issues, divorce, blended and intact families.
When I was a girl there was no one to tell my deepest darkest secrets. My life's work is to be a trusted, healing person to those in pain. My therapy room is many things: a confessional, a delivery room, a crucible, a place of radical honesty with a whole lot of grace. Most of all it is a safe place for you to tell your story, to find strength and hope, to cry, and to heal. I embrace a holistic approach which considers your spirit, mind, body, & community.
(425) 610-6851 View (425) 610-6851
Photo of Lisa Galeucia, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa Galeucia
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027
Additionally, I love working with young adult and adult clients for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, family conflict, parenting issues, dealing with life transitions, adult ADHD, building coping skills, and more.
Hi there! I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. I am passionate about working collaboratively with children/teens (ages 4+) and their parents to help each move towards growth and understanding of one another. In order to do this, it important to utilize strategies that are effective, compassionate, and respectful of the client's needs. Additionally, there needs to be a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust and compassion. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques depending on the needs of each client.
Additionally, I love working with young adult and adult clients for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, family conflict, parenting issues, dealing with life transitions, adult ADHD, building coping skills, and more.
Hi there! I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. I am passionate about working collaboratively with children/teens (ages 4+) and their parents to help each move towards growth and understanding of one another. In order to do this, it important to utilize strategies that are effective, compassionate, and respectful of the client's needs. Additionally, there needs to be a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust and compassion. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques depending on the needs of each client.
(425) 657-3878 View (425) 657-3878
Photo of Sara York - Puget Sound Child and Family Therapy, MA, CMHS, LMFT-S, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Puget Sound Child and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CMHS, LMFT-S, RPT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027
I enjoy working with children of all ages and backgrounds and am an LGBTQ and Gender Non-Conforming safe space.
My name is Sara, I am a LMFT-S and a Registered Play Therapist. I enjoy working closely with kids and families to help them reach their goals. I view your family and your child's problem in the context of their life and relationships. I take a comprehensive family system's approach, which is client centered and focused on the goals you bring to therapy. We will develop a comprehensive treatment plan, taking into consideration family history, health, educational goals/needs, living situation, and cultural aspects of your life. I encourage clients to work with family and/or supports throughout the therapeutic process.
I enjoy working with children of all ages and backgrounds and am an LGBTQ and Gender Non-Conforming safe space.
My name is Sara, I am a LMFT-S and a Registered Play Therapist. I enjoy working closely with kids and families to help them reach their goals. I view your family and your child's problem in the context of their life and relationships. I take a comprehensive family system's approach, which is client centered and focused on the goals you bring to therapy. We will develop a comprehensive treatment plan, taking into consideration family history, health, educational goals/needs, living situation, and cultural aspects of your life. I encourage clients to work with family and/or supports throughout the therapeutic process.
(425) 312-6794 View (425) 312-6794
Photo of Deanna D. Thompson - All Valley Integrated Counseling, MS,  MHP, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
All Valley Integrated Counseling
Counselor, MS, MHP, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
Whether you need a little help getting unstuck or struggling with lifelong complex issues, I can help. I have worked with clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, DV, Complex trauma, personality disorders, sexual assault/ abuse, and substance abuse. I work with LGBTQ, polyamorous, alternate lifestyles, and multicultural. As each person’s issue is different and their counseling should be as unique as they are. Most counselors work within one school of training, or theoretical practice. I have experience integrating a variety of therapy techniques and approaches to assist clients in gaining mental and behavioral health wellness.
Whether you need a little help getting unstuck or struggling with lifelong complex issues, I can help. I have worked with clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, DV, Complex trauma, personality disorders, sexual assault/ abuse, and substance abuse. I work with LGBTQ, polyamorous, alternate lifestyles, and multicultural. As each person’s issue is different and their counseling should be as unique as they are. Most counselors work within one school of training, or theoretical practice. I have experience integrating a variety of therapy techniques and approaches to assist clients in gaining mental and behavioral health wellness.
(425) 448-5526 View (425) 448-5526
Photo of Tasha Trembath, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tasha Trembath
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027
I also specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and the ethical nonmonogamy community.
I have immediate availability! Are you a parent who feels at a loss for how to help their child? I offer emotional regulation skills for the child, and effective parenting skills for the parent. Are you ethically non-monogamous? Are you wanting to open your relationship? Do you need extra support navigating polyamory? I offer years of experience and knowledge to help you navigate this sometimes tricky relationship dynamic. Are you in the LGBTQIA+ community? Are you struggling with issues of self-worth or internalized oppression? I strive to help you discover your value and work on helping you love exactly you.
I also specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and the ethical nonmonogamy community.
I have immediate availability! Are you a parent who feels at a loss for how to help their child? I offer emotional regulation skills for the child, and effective parenting skills for the parent. Are you ethically non-monogamous? Are you wanting to open your relationship? Do you need extra support navigating polyamory? I offer years of experience and knowledge to help you navigate this sometimes tricky relationship dynamic. Are you in the LGBTQIA+ community? Are you struggling with issues of self-worth or internalized oppression? I strive to help you discover your value and work on helping you love exactly you.
(253) 342-4010 View (253) 342-4010
Photo of Bo Yoon, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bo Yoon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98029
I work with adolescents (13+), adults, women, members of the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, and adult children of immigrants to the U.
I believe that all people are capable of positive change and that we have limitless potentials, if we are given adequate support and the right resources. I trust that people have a desire to belong in a community and to cultivate meaningful relationships. We are not meant to walk alone. I am here to walk alongside you, through your pain and struggles, and in your joys and celebrations. In the counseling space, I provide a warm and empathic presence in a safe space, where we can work collaboratively on the goals and concerns you bring to therapy.
I work with adolescents (13+), adults, women, members of the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, and adult children of immigrants to the U.
I believe that all people are capable of positive change and that we have limitless potentials, if we are given adequate support and the right resources. I trust that people have a desire to belong in a community and to cultivate meaningful relationships. We are not meant to walk alone. I am here to walk alongside you, through your pain and struggles, and in your joys and celebrations. In the counseling space, I provide a warm and empathic presence in a safe space, where we can work collaboratively on the goals and concerns you bring to therapy.
(425) 340-3216 View (425) 340-3216
Photo of Cory Smith - Time To Thrive PLLC, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Time To Thrive PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027  (Online Only)
I thrive on helping others heal and get to where they want to be in life. I feel that people usually come to therapy because something is not working in their life and change needs to happen but they are not sure how. I am passionate about my work and strive to help others every day. I am flexible with my approach as we are all different and I will follow your lead with what works best for you. I think that humor and connection are very important in a therapeutic relationship so that we can laugh and cry and I am able to push you at times to help you reach your goals.
I thrive on helping others heal and get to where they want to be in life. I feel that people usually come to therapy because something is not working in their life and change needs to happen but they are not sure how. I am passionate about my work and strive to help others every day. I am flexible with my approach as we are all different and I will follow your lead with what works best for you. I think that humor and connection are very important in a therapeutic relationship so that we can laugh and cry and I am able to push you at times to help you reach your goals.
(406) 344-1257 View (406) 344-1257
Photo of Maribel Aheran - Neupathway (Maribel Aheran), EdD, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Neupathway (Maribel Aheran)
Counselor, EdD, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
(425) 215-1784 View (425) 215-1784
Photo of Joseph Kalita - Centered Mind Counseling Services, MS, LMHCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Joseph Kalita - Centered Mind Counseling Services
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027
Having spent significant time on “the other side of the chair” with both helpful and harmful experiences, I care deeply about others’ experiences with therapists and counselors. I understand the discomfort that can come from asking for help, and I aim to alleviate that by moving slowly and welcoming you however you need to be in the counseling room.
Having spent significant time on “the other side of the chair” with both helpful and harmful experiences, I care deeply about others’ experiences with therapists and counselors. I understand the discomfort that can come from asking for help, and I aim to alleviate that by moving slowly and welcoming you however you need to be in the counseling room.
(425) 269-3277 View (425) 269-3277
Photo of Percival Fisher - Neupathway (Percival Fisher), LCSW, LICSW, Counselor
Neupathway (Percival Fisher)
Counselor, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
Percival Fisher Jr. is a skilled Mental Health Therapist and Graduate Nurse with 14 years of experience integrating holistic care in mental health and nursing. He utilizes evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and strength-based therapy, to empower individuals in achieving mental wellness. Percival is adept at clinical frameworks for assessment, diagnosis, and intervention across various settings like hospitals, agencies, and online platforms. He excels in creating safe, welcoming environments for diverse clients, focusing on case management, care coordination, and psychotherapy.
Percival Fisher Jr. is a skilled Mental Health Therapist and Graduate Nurse with 14 years of experience integrating holistic care in mental health and nursing. He utilizes evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and strength-based therapy, to empower individuals in achieving mental wellness. Percival is adept at clinical frameworks for assessment, diagnosis, and intervention across various settings like hospitals, agencies, and online platforms. He excels in creating safe, welcoming environments for diverse clients, focusing on case management, care coordination, and psychotherapy.
(425) 472-4090 View (425) 472-4090
Photo of Brett Baldwin, LMHCA, MA, Counselor
Brett Baldwin
Counselor, LMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027
For many that have made the decision to go to therapy, life has gone in such a way that it has become unbearable. Things have not gone right for some time, and it is unclear in what direction to go next. My position is that therapy should be the space in which you are given the opportunity to explore your life in the way that you see fit. Drawing from interpersonal dynamics, existential thought, and humanistic perspectives, my approach is one that focuses on you in the context of your world. How we make sense of who we are can be a complicated process, and it's important to know where we stand in a world of unknowns.
For many that have made the decision to go to therapy, life has gone in such a way that it has become unbearable. Things have not gone right for some time, and it is unclear in what direction to go next. My position is that therapy should be the space in which you are given the opportunity to explore your life in the way that you see fit. Drawing from interpersonal dynamics, existential thought, and humanistic perspectives, my approach is one that focuses on you in the context of your world. How we make sense of who we are can be a complicated process, and it's important to know where we stand in a world of unknowns.
(425) 842-3035 View (425) 842-3035
Photo of Sheri Yamada, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Sheri Yamada
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027  (Online Only)
** Currently accepting new clients ** Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, daily stress, or looking to build coping skills and resilience? Are you looking to talk with someone that understands the demands of working in the technology sector or other stressful workplace environments? Are you looking for a safe space to explore your emotions, lean into growth, heal emotional wounds and create a life that brings balance and peace? Do you want to work through traumatic memories, gain a fuller understanding of yourself, establish healthy boundaries, work toward desired changes and live your authentic BEST self?
** Currently accepting new clients ** Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, daily stress, or looking to build coping skills and resilience? Are you looking to talk with someone that understands the demands of working in the technology sector or other stressful workplace environments? Are you looking for a safe space to explore your emotions, lean into growth, heal emotional wounds and create a life that brings balance and peace? Do you want to work through traumatic memories, gain a fuller understanding of yourself, establish healthy boundaries, work toward desired changes and live your authentic BEST self?
(425) 620-4353 View (425) 620-4353
Photo of Ashley Levien, MA, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Ashley Levien
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027  (Online Only)
I am a holistic, integrative, person-centered, culturally considerate therapist for adolescents ages 13 & up, individuals, partners and families. I am curious, open-minded, and non-judgmental. I believe communication with yourself and others is at the heart of successful relationships. I also believe that you know what you need to heal and my job is to help you get more in touch with that part of yourself. As an empathetic witness, advocate, and guide, I will help you increase your self-awareness and sense of agency through mindful observation, personal exploration, and collaborative experimentation.
I am a holistic, integrative, person-centered, culturally considerate therapist for adolescents ages 13 & up, individuals, partners and families. I am curious, open-minded, and non-judgmental. I believe communication with yourself and others is at the heart of successful relationships. I also believe that you know what you need to heal and my job is to help you get more in touch with that part of yourself. As an empathetic witness, advocate, and guide, I will help you increase your self-awareness and sense of agency through mindful observation, personal exploration, and collaborative experimentation.
(425) 970-9186 View (425) 970-9186
1
LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.