Transgender Therapists in Washington

Photo of Sara Walter Shihdanian - Brainspotting Intensives Washington and Oregon, MS, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Brainspotting Intensives Washington and Oregon
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I also have unique and extensive training in transgender care, complex + relational trauma and PTSD, and the LGBTQ population.
We all have the capacity for healing and personal empowerment but life can get in the way! You're wanting to detach from painful experiences, start liking yourself again, and stop hiding from your truth. Your relationships keep feeling hallow and disconnected, reviewing your interactions for where you went wrong. You know you can't keep pushing these feelings down forever - they keep coming back and you're starting to feel so lost. You want relief and healing but adding a weekly therapy appointment when you're already overwhelmed is a lot! Thankfully, you're in the right place. I'm glad you are here.
I also have unique and extensive training in transgender care, complex + relational trauma and PTSD, and the LGBTQ population.
We all have the capacity for healing and personal empowerment but life can get in the way! You're wanting to detach from painful experiences, start liking yourself again, and stop hiding from your truth. Your relationships keep feeling hallow and disconnected, reviewing your interactions for where you went wrong. You know you can't keep pushing these feelings down forever - they keep coming back and you're starting to feel so lost. You want relief and healing but adding a weekly therapy appointment when you're already overwhelmed is a lot! Thankfully, you're in the right place. I'm glad you are here.
(360) 233-8725 View (360) 233-8725
Photo of Finn Indigo Mar, MA, LMHCA, ATR-P, Counselor
Finn Indigo Mar
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Relational Art Therapist. I graduated from Antioch University - Seattle in 2020 and I have been in private practice since then. I have been working with older teens and adults who have mental and physical disabilities for over 13 years. I focus on empowering clients through a strength-based approach and existential theory. I specialize in working with transgender and non-binary individuals as well as the wider LGBTQIA+ community. I have experience working with adolescents and adults who identify as neuro-divergent (including ADHD) and/or on the Autism spectrum. I am a poly-friendly, body positive, and BDSM/kink knowledgeable.
I am a Relational Art Therapist. I graduated from Antioch University - Seattle in 2020 and I have been in private practice since then. I have been working with older teens and adults who have mental and physical disabilities for over 13 years. I focus on empowering clients through a strength-based approach and existential theory. I specialize in working with transgender and non-binary individuals as well as the wider LGBTQIA+ community. I have experience working with adolescents and adults who identify as neuro-divergent (including ADHD) and/or on the Autism spectrum. I am a poly-friendly, body positive, and BDSM/kink knowledgeable.
(206) 279-4609 View (206) 279-4609
Photo of Dr. Kristy Carangi, LMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Kristy Carangi
Counselor, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
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 adults, children, and adolescents, individually or as couples/family. 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 adults, children, and adolescents, individually or as couples/family. 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 Autumn Webb, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Autumn Webb
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
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, mood disorders, 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, mood disorders, 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 Cyn Clarfield, PsyD, Psychologist
Cyn Clarfield
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
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, they may face internal or external challenges leading to confusion and stress. 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, they may face internal or external challenges leading to confusion and stress. Working with an experienced therapist trained in gender and sexual minority issues can help.
(206) 785-1711 View (206) 785-1711
Photo of Nicholas G Jzyk, LMHCA, MA, Counselor
Nicholas G Jzyk
Counselor, LMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125
I also have a personal understanding and history of working with LGBTQ+ specifically Transgender Individuals, and Catholics.
We all experience struggles in life. I believe sometimes we just need a bit of help to overcome them. I am an authentic strength-based and solution-focused counselor who aims to assist my clients in them using strengths to find solutions and overcome whatever those struggles may be. I value staying open-minded, warm, authentic, and honest with my clients. I want to give you space to express yourself and feel safe. I see the world in "grey” not black and white. When facing challenges I believe there are many paths to improvement. As your counselor, I aim to help and empower you to explore them so you can move toward a better place.
I also have a personal understanding and history of working with LGBTQ+ specifically Transgender Individuals, and Catholics.
We all experience struggles in life. I believe sometimes we just need a bit of help to overcome them. I am an authentic strength-based and solution-focused counselor who aims to assist my clients in them using strengths to find solutions and overcome whatever those struggles may be. I value staying open-minded, warm, authentic, and honest with my clients. I want to give you space to express yourself and feel safe. I see the world in "grey” not black and white. When facing challenges I believe there are many paths to improvement. As your counselor, I aim to help and empower you to explore them so you can move toward a better place.
(360) 615-3429 View (360) 615-3429
Photo of Elliot Sweet, LMFT, CMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elliot Sweet
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
For the last 10 years, I've worked with trans, nonbinary, and gender-questioning adolescents, adults, and their families. I work with folks seeking support around exploring their gender identity and expression, gender dysphoria, gender-related trauma, navigating 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 the clinician.
For the last 10 years, I've worked with trans, nonbinary, and gender-questioning adolescents, adults, and their families. I work with folks seeking support around exploring their gender identity and expression, gender dysphoria, gender-related trauma, navigating 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 the clinician.
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Photo of Stace Nagle, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Stace Nagle
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I primarily work with the LGBTQIA2S+ community and have worked with trans, nonbinary, and gender-questioning adolescents, adults, and their families for the last 10 years around gender identity exploration, gender dysphoria, medical transition, and treating trauma related to gender and sexuality. I'm trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and provided individual and group DBT treatment. I lead an LGBTQIA2S+ DBT adult group through NW DBT. I also specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, and trauma. I'm trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD/anxiety and DBT Prolonged Exposure for the treatment of trauma.
I primarily work with the LGBTQIA2S+ community and have worked with trans, nonbinary, and gender-questioning adolescents, adults, and their families for the last 10 years around gender identity exploration, gender dysphoria, medical transition, and treating trauma related to gender and sexuality. I'm trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and provided individual and group DBT treatment. I lead an LGBTQIA2S+ DBT adult group through NW DBT. I also specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, and trauma. I'm trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD/anxiety and DBT Prolonged Exposure for the treatment of trauma.
(206) 745-5040 View (206) 745-5040
Photo of Aurora Fernwood - Aurora Fernwood: Gender - ADHD - Religious Trauma, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aurora Fernwood: Gender - ADHD - Religious Trauma
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
My core specialties are helping adults and older teens who are: - Transgender or Queer; or -have ADHD (neurodivergence); or -need healing from Religious Trauma.
Accepting New Clients. You might feel isolated, struggling to be seen and accepted in a world that doesn’t always understand. If you’re transgender, you may face barriers to expressing who you are, feeling judged or invisible. If living with ADHD, perhaps you feel overwhelmed, frustrated by daily pressures, or misunderstood by those around you. Or if you’re healing from religious trauma, deep scars may linger from beliefs that once defined you but now feel harmful. I’m here to help you find peace, reclaim your sense of self, and experience the freedom of truly being seen. Together, we’ll navigate a path that honors your truth
My core specialties are helping adults and older teens who are: - Transgender or Queer; or -have ADHD (neurodivergence); or -need healing from Religious Trauma.
Accepting New Clients. You might feel isolated, struggling to be seen and accepted in a world that doesn’t always understand. If you’re transgender, you may face barriers to expressing who you are, feeling judged or invisible. If living with ADHD, perhaps you feel overwhelmed, frustrated by daily pressures, or misunderstood by those around you. Or if you’re healing from religious trauma, deep scars may linger from beliefs that once defined you but now feel harmful. I’m here to help you find peace, reclaim your sense of self, and experience the freedom of truly being seen. Together, we’ll navigate a path that honors your truth
(360) 472-4795 View (360) 472-4795
Photo of Chris Calhoun, LMHCA, Counselor
Chris Calhoun
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Finding a therapist who understands what it means to be queer, gender questioning, transgender, or neurodivergent can be hard. Luckily, I happen to have personal experiences in all of these areas. My main goal as a counselor is to help individuals find and realize their full potential.
Finding a therapist who understands what it means to be queer, gender questioning, transgender, or neurodivergent can be hard. Luckily, I happen to have personal experiences in all of these areas. My main goal as a counselor is to help individuals find and realize their full potential.
(360) 594-5212 View (360) 594-5212
Photo of Leia Cheyanne Bellinger, LMHCA, Counselor
Leia Cheyanne Bellinger
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
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 Aaren Connors, MA, LMHC
Aaren Connors
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am also trained to address a wide variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and gender dysphoria.
I enjoy helping others find meaningful, authentic ways of connecting in their relationships and communities. Those I work with tend to feel a lack of connection or authenticity in their life. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process in which we get to recontextualize our experiences through truthful and empowering reframes. This includes curiosity in how your identity and lived experience has shaped your worldview. I am professionally and personally passionate about geek and gaming culture and am comfortable weaving this into therapy when appropriate. Additionally, I work with a lot of young adults in the tech industry.
I am also trained to address a wide variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and gender dysphoria.
I enjoy helping others find meaningful, authentic ways of connecting in their relationships and communities. Those I work with tend to feel a lack of connection or authenticity in their life. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process in which we get to recontextualize our experiences through truthful and empowering reframes. This includes curiosity in how your identity and lived experience has shaped your worldview. I am professionally and personally passionate about geek and gaming culture and am comfortable weaving this into therapy when appropriate. Additionally, I work with a lot of young adults in the tech industry.
(360) 276-6167 View (360) 276-6167
Photo of Elijah Whitmire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elijah Whitmire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a transgender man, I understand the importance of having a therapist who is not only an ally but a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Oftentimes, people in the LGBTQIA+ community come to therapy with a host of interconnected struggles that all tie together somehow. I am here to support anyone who asks for help. The ideal client is someone who comes to therapy with an open mind, willingness to talk and explore the issues they struggle with - be it issues with gender dysphoria, sexuality, depression, anxiety, or any other issue they struggle with in life.
As a transgender man, I understand the importance of having a therapist who is not only an ally but a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Oftentimes, people in the LGBTQIA+ community come to therapy with a host of interconnected struggles that all tie together somehow. I am here to support anyone who asks for help. The ideal client is someone who comes to therapy with an open mind, willingness to talk and explore the issues they struggle with - be it issues with gender dysphoria, sexuality, depression, anxiety, or any other issue they struggle with in life.
(509) 502-6932 View (509) 502-6932
Photo of Nica Selvaggio, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
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 Bobbi Kizer, PhD, Psychologist
Bobbi Kizer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99223
I am experienced working with individuals from all areas of the LGBTQIA+ umbrella and also routinely write recommendation/referral letters for transgender and gender diverse hormones and surgeries.
I believe that healing can happen through the process of empathic and supportive counseling. I work with mood issues, personality disorders, grief, substance use and more. I utilize a culturally sensitive and holistic psychodynamic style of therapy. This approach encourages development in all areas of life, and pays special attention to unconscious factors, childhood upbringing, trauma, and cultural identity (race, religion, sexuality, gender, disability, etc). I am currently accepting clients for group therapy, that will combine the sport/art of crew rowing with group talk therapy. This is a powerful way of feeling connection.
I am experienced working with individuals from all areas of the LGBTQIA+ umbrella and also routinely write recommendation/referral letters for transgender and gender diverse hormones and surgeries.
I believe that healing can happen through the process of empathic and supportive counseling. I work with mood issues, personality disorders, grief, substance use and more. I utilize a culturally sensitive and holistic psychodynamic style of therapy. This approach encourages development in all areas of life, and pays special attention to unconscious factors, childhood upbringing, trauma, and cultural identity (race, religion, sexuality, gender, disability, etc). I am currently accepting clients for group therapy, that will combine the sport/art of crew rowing with group talk therapy. This is a powerful way of feeling connection.
(504) 226-7035 View (504) 226-7035
Photo of Marin Fahey, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marin Fahey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501
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 Dani Patrick, LMHCA, Counselor
Dani Patrick
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Currently accepting new clients (updated 1/16/25). I am a queer, non-binary, trans therapist and expressive arts therapist. I specialize in working with transgender and non-binary folks, and with people navigating relationships, building confidence, or wanting to engage in the arts as part of therapy. Maybe you’ve made strides on your healing journey but you notice old triggers showing up, or you see how past trauma is affecting you and your relationships. Whether you're navigating a transition or exploring a new identity, together we can create a space where you can step into your authentic self with more confidence and ease.
Currently accepting new clients (updated 1/16/25). I am a queer, non-binary, trans therapist and expressive arts therapist. I specialize in working with transgender and non-binary folks, and with people navigating relationships, building confidence, or wanting to engage in the arts as part of therapy. Maybe you’ve made strides on your healing journey but you notice old triggers showing up, or you see how past trauma is affecting you and your relationships. Whether you're navigating a transition or exploring a new identity, together we can create a space where you can step into your authentic self with more confidence and ease.
(206) 451-2735 View (206) 451-2735
Photo of Fennec Clyde Oak, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Fennec Clyde Oak
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
No one is broken. What does it mean to be you? What are your heart’s secret longings? What are the heavy parts you carry in your body and the hopes that you have yet to speak aloud? Healing is not linear. Let us explore the winding path that is you: in the memories of your past, in your experience of the present, and in the possibilities of the future. I am a transgender-identified therapist who specializes in work with LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones. In addition, I work with trauma survivors, people who have experienced othering, and people in life transitions.
No one is broken. What does it mean to be you? What are your heart’s secret longings? What are the heavy parts you carry in your body and the hopes that you have yet to speak aloud? Healing is not linear. Let us explore the winding path that is you: in the memories of your past, in your experience of the present, and in the possibilities of the future. I am a transgender-identified therapist who specializes in work with LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones. In addition, I work with trauma survivors, people who have experienced othering, and people in life transitions.
(360) 835-6707 View (360) 835-6707
Photo of Ilana Skarling, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ilana Skarling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a trans woman and licensed clinical social worker in the states of Washington, Vermont, and Minnesota, with over seven years of experiences spanning transgender care, sexual assault advocacy, community mental health, and behavioral health.
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, feelings of isolation or rejection, or other forms of lasting trauma, I can help. Just know that I believe you to be, at this moment, exactly who you needed to be in order to survive. I also believe that things can get better.
I'm a trans woman and licensed clinical social worker in the states of Washington, Vermont, and Minnesota, with over seven years of experiences spanning transgender care, sexual assault advocacy, community mental health, and behavioral health.
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, feelings of isolation or rejection, or other forms of lasting trauma, I can help. Just know that I believe you to be, at this moment, exactly who you needed to be in order to survive. I also believe that things can get better.
(206) 752-5508 View (206) 752-5508
Photo of Jude Farrell Patton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jude Farrell Patton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
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) 777-9136 View (530) 777-9136
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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.