Transgender Therapists in Carleton Place, ON
![Photo of Terrilee Kelford, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d87c3a05-d6bf-4d0f-bf9d-cae2ed2da2e3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Terrilee Kelford
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carleton Place, ON K7C
So many young people today are struggling with sleep, feeling sick and/or avoiding school, fighting with parents about seemingly simple routines or expectations, spending too much time on technology, are moody and/or irritable or hurting themselves? As a Registered Psychotherapist with 25+ years experience providing support to incredible young people, I can help. I provide caring and non-judgemental support to young people age 10-30 who are experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, sleep issues, bullying, anger, trauma, gender dysphoria, sexual identity, attachment, self-injury, addictions, ADHD and self-esteem etc.
So many young people today are struggling with sleep, feeling sick and/or avoiding school, fighting with parents about seemingly simple routines or expectations, spending too much time on technology, are moody and/or irritable or hurting themselves? As a Registered Psychotherapist with 25+ years experience providing support to incredible young people, I can help. I provide caring and non-judgemental support to young people age 10-30 who are experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, sleep issues, bullying, anger, trauma, gender dysphoria, sexual identity, attachment, self-injury, addictions, ADHD and self-esteem etc.
![Photo of Jeff Herrera Roman, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8c5e719-a5dd-4b4c-b937-d99e86f49e07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeff Herrera Roman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carleton Place, ON K7C (Online Only)
Jeff (he/him) is a registered social worker with 10 years of experience and is based at The Ottawa Hospital. He obtained his Master of Social Work degree at Carleton University with a specialty in clinical mental health and works collaboratively with patients living with anxiety, depression, addictions, and marital difficulties. Jeff also works with marginalized members of society and the LGBTQ2+ community.
Jeff (he/him) is a registered social worker with 10 years of experience and is based at The Ottawa Hospital. He obtained his Master of Social Work degree at Carleton University with a specialty in clinical mental health and works collaboratively with patients living with anxiety, depression, addictions, and marital difficulties. Jeff also works with marginalized members of society and the LGBTQ2+ community.
![Photo of Karen Moore, RSW, MA, ECE, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5204f22-6b71-4d05-8d88-24f0ef44fc52/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Moore
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MA, ECE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carleton Place, ON K7C
I am a registered social worker (RSW) specializing in working with children, youth, families and adults. I have extensive experience working with clients dealing with various issues including trauma, adoption/permanency issues, parenting, LGBTQ, parenting, self esteem/self concept, grief/loss.
I am a registered social worker (RSW) specializing in working with children, youth, families and adults. I have extensive experience working with clients dealing with various issues including trauma, adoption/permanency issues, parenting, LGBTQ, parenting, self esteem/self concept, grief/loss.
![Photo of Gerry Casey - Gerry Casey Consulting Inc., MSW, RSW, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d87cd1db-da39-4ba9-93dd-141688d6a83b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Working in partnership with you, I strive to help in ways that are most aligned with your needs, goals and strengths.
Working in partnership with you, I strive to help in ways that are most aligned with your needs, goals and strengths.
![Photo of Sharp Dopler, CD, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6c17191-f763-4cc1-bf67-7f2d19e0e4fb/2/320x400.jpeg)
As we journey through life, sometimes the way is easy and other times it is not. Therapy may help us explore whatever we have encountered along the path. I work with individuals 18 and older who would like to explore the paths previously travelled, while developing strategies for balance and wellness on the journey forward. My goal is to walk with you for a time, to co-create a space to reflect, learn and grow, guided by the inherent wisdom you carry within you.
As we journey through life, sometimes the way is easy and other times it is not. Therapy may help us explore whatever we have encountered along the path. I work with individuals 18 and older who would like to explore the paths previously travelled, while developing strategies for balance and wellness on the journey forward. My goal is to walk with you for a time, to co-create a space to reflect, learn and grow, guided by the inherent wisdom you carry within you.
![Photo of Kate McEvenue - Root to Leaf Counselling Ltd, MA , MEd, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/759f8e76-efff-4f50-8e17-9f310d7e8f4b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals who want to feel better - whether you are suffering from the effects of trauma, childhood abuse, neglect, mental health issues, depression, anxiety, or you're just not feeling like yourself anymore. Sometimes a new challenge can trigger old wounds and suddenly life seems overwhelming. Together, we can explore where things may have gone off course to equip you with the insight, skills, and motivation to move forward. My approach is eclectic, using body-based interventions that are safe and proven effective. My belief is that every person has the capacity to heal; No one is broken, and everything is possible.
I work with individuals who want to feel better - whether you are suffering from the effects of trauma, childhood abuse, neglect, mental health issues, depression, anxiety, or you're just not feeling like yourself anymore. Sometimes a new challenge can trigger old wounds and suddenly life seems overwhelming. Together, we can explore where things may have gone off course to equip you with the insight, skills, and motivation to move forward. My approach is eclectic, using body-based interventions that are safe and proven effective. My belief is that every person has the capacity to heal; No one is broken, and everything is possible.
![Photo of Tory Baker-Reed, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aca1f798-e999-42ea-8126-213beb587275/1/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to create effective personalized healing options for each client and work from a foundation of inclusion, compassion and kindness. Offering a range of healing modalities including EMDR, narrative therapy, psychodrama and emotion release work. As a registered social worker/psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) I welcome clients with a wide variety of life experiences, trauma and personal struggles. Please note the quickest way to connect with me, and book a free 15-minute meet and greet session, is to access my website.
I strive to create effective personalized healing options for each client and work from a foundation of inclusion, compassion and kindness. Offering a range of healing modalities including EMDR, narrative therapy, psychodrama and emotion release work. As a registered social worker/psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) I welcome clients with a wide variety of life experiences, trauma and personal struggles. Please note the quickest way to connect with me, and book a free 15-minute meet and greet session, is to access my website.
![Photo of Deb McGuire, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9cb61af-d71f-4f8a-ba7a-4efec817ec0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deb is a Registered Social Worker, holding a Masters of Social Work, who practices Psychotherapy. She is a trained Trauma Specialist, though also uses integrated approaches in her work as both a Therapist and Clinical Supervisor. Deb supports adults, and young people. She has spent much of her career working with youth and young adults, as a teacher, coach, facilitator, psychotherapist and as a youth outreach worker. Deb also provides Clinical Supervision to regulated Mental Health Providers.
Deb is a Registered Social Worker, holding a Masters of Social Work, who practices Psychotherapy. She is a trained Trauma Specialist, though also uses integrated approaches in her work as both a Therapist and Clinical Supervisor. Deb supports adults, and young people. She has spent much of her career working with youth and young adults, as a teacher, coach, facilitator, psychotherapist and as a youth outreach worker. Deb also provides Clinical Supervision to regulated Mental Health Providers.
![Photo of Dr. Laura S. Stradwick, PsyD, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/505f1107-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Laura S. Stradwick
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carleton Place, ON K7C
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Stradwick provides psychological services to children, adolescents, and adults. Areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief and loss, developmental trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and chronic pain/illness. She offers a range of psychological services, including Neurofeedback/Biofeedback, Psychotherapy/CBT, Mindfulness Training, and Psychological Assessment. The therapeutic approach with clients is holistic. She utilizes an attachment-related, client-centered framework to provide an emotionally safe and compassionate environment for building trust and therapeutic rapport. She incorporates CBT, psychodynamic, and interpersonal based techniques to assist each client in developing greater self-awareness as well as to facilitate symptom reduction,resilience, and personal growth.
Dr. Stradwick provides psychological services to children, adolescents, and adults. Areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief and loss, developmental trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and chronic pain/illness. She offers a range of psychological services, including Neurofeedback/Biofeedback, Psychotherapy/CBT, Mindfulness Training, and Psychological Assessment. The therapeutic approach with clients is holistic. She utilizes an attachment-related, client-centered framework to provide an emotionally safe and compassionate environment for building trust and therapeutic rapport. She incorporates CBT, psychodynamic, and interpersonal based techniques to assist each client in developing greater self-awareness as well as to facilitate symptom reduction,resilience, and personal growth.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Carly Quintero - Carly Quintero @ Psychotherapy for You, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4ca40fd-ff69-42f2-a52a-7213bebec737/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carly Quintero @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R (Online Only)
Hello I am a welcoming, attentive clinician with a natural knack for relationship building. I earned my Master's degree in Counselling from Oakland University (Michigan) in 2013 and have been a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario since 2016, as well as a Member of the Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists. I have over eight years of experience counselling individuals from predominantly person-centered and narrative approaches with specific focus placed on developing treatment to fit each client's unique needs and personality. I am confident working with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional effects of chronic pain,
Hello I am a welcoming, attentive clinician with a natural knack for relationship building. I earned my Master's degree in Counselling from Oakland University (Michigan) in 2013 and have been a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario since 2016, as well as a Member of the Ontario Society of Registered Psychotherapists. I have over eight years of experience counselling individuals from predominantly person-centered and narrative approaches with specific focus placed on developing treatment to fit each client's unique needs and personality. I am confident working with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional effects of chronic pain,
![Photo of Amanda Henry, MA, RCT, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d4a9b07-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Is the inside of your head feeling like an uncomfortable place to be? Working with a mental health professional can create a meaningful shift. Sometimes the harsh things we say to ourselves and our unconscious patterns can leave us trapped in a cycle of just trying to survive. Could the way you've learned to cope/survive be keeping you stuck or moving you away from who you want to be and how you want to live? Learning to see yourself, your life, and your patterns clearly can create opportunities for healing, growth, and more meaningful relationships.
Is the inside of your head feeling like an uncomfortable place to be? Working with a mental health professional can create a meaningful shift. Sometimes the harsh things we say to ourselves and our unconscious patterns can leave us trapped in a cycle of just trying to survive. Could the way you've learned to cope/survive be keeping you stuck or moving you away from who you want to be and how you want to live? Learning to see yourself, your life, and your patterns clearly can create opportunities for healing, growth, and more meaningful relationships.
![Photo of Heather MacKenzie - Heather MacKenzie @ Kaleidoscope Counselling Co 🌈, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/582de6f4-6e2e-48b8-9cc8-8b71decfaad6/1/320x400.png)
Heather MacKenzie @ Kaleidoscope Counselling Co 🌈
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K0A (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Heather! Are you a young person struggling to find your place in the world? A parent needing guidance about supporting your LGBTQ+ or neurodivergent child? A young person seeking a safe space to explore your identity? I'm a compassionate therapist with 20+ years of experience in the field. I understand the unique struggles faced by tweens, teens, young adults, parents, and families, & specialize in supporting folks with issues like trauma, depression, anxiety, self-harm, and family conflict. As a self-identified neurodivergent LGBTQ+ therapist, I also help my clients navigate coming out, discrimination, etc.
Hi, I'm Heather! Are you a young person struggling to find your place in the world? A parent needing guidance about supporting your LGBTQ+ or neurodivergent child? A young person seeking a safe space to explore your identity? I'm a compassionate therapist with 20+ years of experience in the field. I understand the unique struggles faced by tweens, teens, young adults, parents, and families, & specialize in supporting folks with issues like trauma, depression, anxiety, self-harm, and family conflict. As a self-identified neurodivergent LGBTQ+ therapist, I also help my clients navigate coming out, discrimination, etc.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Jennifer Lane, MACP, RP, CPT, FNS, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72cfccbb-8bdb-4f6e-841e-f0110d97da9a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Lane
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, CPT, FNS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
I work primarily with the queer community, and specifically with transgender folks navigating their identity and the transition process.
Life can be difficult - we all go through struggles as we navigate the ups and downs of our experience. This can be further complicated when we're a member of a minority or marginalized group. As a queer woman myself, I am passionate about working with other queer individuals to help them explore and discover who they are, and how they want to express themselves in the world. Whether you're struggling with your sexuality, gender identity, depression, anxiety, or just having a hard time managing stress and life changes - I'm here to help!
I work primarily with the queer community, and specifically with transgender folks navigating their identity and the transition process.
Life can be difficult - we all go through struggles as we navigate the ups and downs of our experience. This can be further complicated when we're a member of a minority or marginalized group. As a queer woman myself, I am passionate about working with other queer individuals to help them explore and discover who they are, and how they want to express themselves in the world. Whether you're struggling with your sexuality, gender identity, depression, anxiety, or just having a hard time managing stress and life changes - I'm here to help!
![Photo of Brad Garrison, MEd, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19309e93-3abe-448c-9c48-2d35b45ad135/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brad Garrison
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in sex therapy, couples / marriage counselling, and work with LGBTQ+ and transgender communities and have experience offering service to diverse clients from marginalized, BIPOC, poly, and kink communities.
Sex and relationships are often at the core of our lives. The ways in which we connect with others - and with ourselves - can have significant impacts on our health and well-being. Communication barriers, sexual dysfunction, disconnection, infidelity, domestic abuse, trauma, and other kinds of psychosocial concerns are common challenges that lead people to seek therapy with me. Many of my clients are wanting to calm anxiety, develop coping skills, increase sexual satisfaction, reconnect with partners, or heal from trauma and abuse.
I specialize in sex therapy, couples / marriage counselling, and work with LGBTQ+ and transgender communities and have experience offering service to diverse clients from marginalized, BIPOC, poly, and kink communities.
Sex and relationships are often at the core of our lives. The ways in which we connect with others - and with ourselves - can have significant impacts on our health and well-being. Communication barriers, sexual dysfunction, disconnection, infidelity, domestic abuse, trauma, and other kinds of psychosocial concerns are common challenges that lead people to seek therapy with me. Many of my clients are wanting to calm anxiety, develop coping skills, increase sexual satisfaction, reconnect with partners, or heal from trauma and abuse.
![Photo of Carrie Anne Hojnoski, BA(H), BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ad13607-939d-4bb0-b833-92b43dde9c72/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carrie Anne Hojnoski
Registered Social Worker, BA(H), BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gloucester, ON K1W (Online Only)
I specialize in Mood&Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, ADHD/ASD, AuDHD, Woman’s Health/PPD/PPA, Addiction, Narcissistic &Borderline Personality Disorders, Relationships, Grief&Loss, Sexual Health Education& supporting Transgender & Polyamory LGBTQIA+ folks.
Hello, thank you for reading my profile! I bring 20 years of experience as a social worker and psychotherapist to support you in navigating life's many challenges. I provide virtual care psychotherapy in Ontario to adults 18-65. I am a caregiver, listener and a social justice advocate. I offer you a safe space to explore your current challenges utilizing an anti-oppressive & decolonized social work practice. My focus will be using an evidence based therapy modality to address your challenges and assist you in building skills. I focus on emotion regulation skills, distress tolerance, mindfulness & interpersonal skills.
I specialize in Mood&Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, ADHD/ASD, AuDHD, Woman’s Health/PPD/PPA, Addiction, Narcissistic &Borderline Personality Disorders, Relationships, Grief&Loss, Sexual Health Education& supporting Transgender & Polyamory LGBTQIA+ folks.
Hello, thank you for reading my profile! I bring 20 years of experience as a social worker and psychotherapist to support you in navigating life's many challenges. I provide virtual care psychotherapy in Ontario to adults 18-65. I am a caregiver, listener and a social justice advocate. I offer you a safe space to explore your current challenges utilizing an anti-oppressive & decolonized social work practice. My focus will be using an evidence based therapy modality to address your challenges and assist you in building skills. I focus on emotion regulation skills, distress tolerance, mindfulness & interpersonal skills.
![Photo of Marie Robertson](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4aae00a0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of specialization are relationship issues, grief & bereavement, palliative care, HIV/AIDS/Cancer, coming out, internalized homophobia, transgender issues, addiction recovery, and codependency.
The counselling process is similar to carefully peeling back the layers of an onion. You need to feel safe and in control as the layers of your story are revealed. Together, we uncover deeper parts of the self that may be hidden from conscious thought ... old scripts and tapes that are still playing today and causing you pain and anxiety. You can change your life by bringing these old patterns and voices into the light of day for examination. My work is to support, guide, and challenge you so you can empower yourself to deal with past issues and present concerns.
My areas of specialization are relationship issues, grief & bereavement, palliative care, HIV/AIDS/Cancer, coming out, internalized homophobia, transgender issues, addiction recovery, and codependency.
The counselling process is similar to carefully peeling back the layers of an onion. You need to feel safe and in control as the layers of your story are revealed. Together, we uncover deeper parts of the self that may be hidden from conscious thought ... old scripts and tapes that are still playing today and causing you pain and anxiety. You can change your life by bringing these old patterns and voices into the light of day for examination. My work is to support, guide, and challenge you so you can empower yourself to deal with past issues and present concerns.
![Photo of Jane van de Ven - Certified Nurse Psychotherapist (Q), RN, MScN, CNP/CPN, (Q)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1efed2dd-378e-463b-b20c-650aa9c55b5c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jane van de Ven - Certified Nurse Psychotherapist (Q)
RN, MScN, CNP/CPN, (Q)
Verified Verified
Inverary, ON K0H (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or depression from work/life burnout, chronic illness (e.g., addiction, cancer, pain), toxic relationships or intimate partner violence, traumatic pregnancy, labour and delivery or postpartum, autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), identifying as two-spirited, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (2SLGBTQ+), or having symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from careers such as teaching, military, corrections, and healthcare? Is your goal to mentally heal and bring health and wellness into your life?
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or depression from work/life burnout, chronic illness (e.g., addiction, cancer, pain), toxic relationships or intimate partner violence, traumatic pregnancy, labour and delivery or postpartum, autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), identifying as two-spirited, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (2SLGBTQ+), or having symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from careers such as teaching, military, corrections, and healthcare? Is your goal to mentally heal and bring health and wellness into your life?
![Photo of Mason Flatla, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c65a1f2d-4e53-47f7-8d89-c838ec917001/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for considering me in your search for a therapist. It is my belief that the most meaningful therapy is grounded in the safety and fit of the client-therapist relationship. I strive to maintain a practice that is authentic, transparent, and honouring of the courage it takes to arrive in therapy. My approach is integrative and often draws from both person-centred and narrative methodologies as well as my lived experience as a transgender person. I strive to create a warm and inclusive space that fosters collaboration, discussion and self-exploration.
Thank you for considering me in your search for a therapist. It is my belief that the most meaningful therapy is grounded in the safety and fit of the client-therapist relationship. I strive to maintain a practice that is authentic, transparent, and honouring of the courage it takes to arrive in therapy. My approach is integrative and often draws from both person-centred and narrative methodologies as well as my lived experience as a transgender person. I strive to create a warm and inclusive space that fosters collaboration, discussion and self-exploration.
![Photo of Harmony Jarvis - Onyx Counselling Services - Harmony Jarvis, MSW, RSW, MSc, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65c04d94-f50f-4fcd-b48b-138e48770dd6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Onyx Counselling Services - Harmony Jarvis
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MSc
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7L
Registered social worker accepting referrals for in person services (individual, or couples). Making the first call can be the hardest part about engaging in counselling. There's a million things that get in the way of that first call, and a lot of nerve (and time!) that it takes to make it. Whether this is your first engagement, or your hundredth, it is my belief that if you’re thinking about therapy, you can likely benefit from - and are welcome in therapy. Anxiety, trauma, infidelity, depression, conflict - whatever is bothering you let's work together to find a way forward.
Registered social worker accepting referrals for in person services (individual, or couples). Making the first call can be the hardest part about engaging in counselling. There's a million things that get in the way of that first call, and a lot of nerve (and time!) that it takes to make it. Whether this is your first engagement, or your hundredth, it is my belief that if you’re thinking about therapy, you can likely benefit from - and are welcome in therapy. Anxiety, trauma, infidelity, depression, conflict - whatever is bothering you let's work together to find a way forward.
![Photo of Katherine Wilson, MSc, CPysch, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1aa0ae78-f94c-4333-9443-9624a65ae295/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about mental wellness and helping people make and maintain positive changes in their lives. I feel strongly that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor, and I prioritize collaboration and authenticity in my therapeutic approach. I use a biopsychosocial lens to consider how your identity, culture, context may be affecting your experience and worldview. In every case, we decide together what works best for you; I believe that this gives you the best opportunity to achieve further understanding and insight, and ultimately transform this self-discovery into meaningful and lasting change.
I am passionate about mental wellness and helping people make and maintain positive changes in their lives. I feel strongly that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor, and I prioritize collaboration and authenticity in my therapeutic approach. I use a biopsychosocial lens to consider how your identity, culture, context may be affecting your experience and worldview. In every case, we decide together what works best for you; I believe that this gives you the best opportunity to achieve further understanding and insight, and ultimately transform this self-discovery into meaningful and lasting change.
See more therapy options for Carleton Place
Nearby Transgender Counsellors Searches for Carleton Place
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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 recognise 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 recognise 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.