Transgender Psychiatrists in Oregon

Photo of Madeline Jacobs, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
She specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, transgender-related mental health care, and opioid addiction.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
She specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, transgender-related mental health care, and opioid addiction.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
(541) 204-8386 x2 View (541) 204-8386 x2
Photo of Madeline Jacobs, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97204
She specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, transgender-related mental health care, and opioid addiction.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy, and takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
She specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, transgender-related mental health care, and opioid addiction.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy, and takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
(503) 386-0877 x2 View (503) 386-0877 x2
Photo of Madeline Jacobs, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madeline Jacobs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015
She specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, transgender-related mental health care, and opioid addiction.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
She specializes in ADHD, anxiety, depression, transgender-related mental health care, and opioid addiction.
Madeline Jacobs is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University and has been working in the psychiatric field since 2015. She has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the country, and would love the opportunity to broaden the reach of LGBTQ+ affirming mental health care through telepsychiatry. She is trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), an evidence-based trauma therapy. She takes a trauma-informed perspective on mental health care.
(561) 823-1255 x2 View (561) 823-1255 x2
Photo of Hilary Helkenn, MSN,  , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hilary Helkenn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, , APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
If you are struggling with mental health concerns, such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, or others, please reach out for a free consultation to discuss your mental health care needs.
We all face challenges from time to time. You don’t have to face them alone. Welcome to Verdant Path Mental Health; where compassionate care meets innovative solutions. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in telehealth services, I prioritize inclusivity and integration in our approach to mental health care.The term "verdant path" evokes images of lush greenery, gentle breezes, and a sense of tranquility.The verdant path symbolizes a journey filled with rejuvenation, growth, and a deep connection to nature's soothing embrace. I will strive to be your partner on this journey.
If you are struggling with mental health concerns, such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, or others, please reach out for a free consultation to discuss your mental health care needs.
We all face challenges from time to time. You don’t have to face them alone. Welcome to Verdant Path Mental Health; where compassionate care meets innovative solutions. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in telehealth services, I prioritize inclusivity and integration in our approach to mental health care.The term "verdant path" evokes images of lush greenery, gentle breezes, and a sense of tranquility.The verdant path symbolizes a journey filled with rejuvenation, growth, and a deep connection to nature's soothing embrace. I will strive to be your partner on this journey.
(623) 343-1817 View (623) 343-1817
Photo of Michelle Schilz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Schilz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217
Now taking new clients. To contact me, make an appointment for a phone call at calendly.com/rainfallwellness. (I am bad at voicemail and email.) I welcome TRANS and GNB folks. I welcome PLURALS and SYSTEMS. I work with people who have ADHD and I prescribe ADHD meds. I teach clients about how our brain causes our symptoms. I do my best to provide safe and respectful care to my Queer and Gender-nonconforming sibs. Together, we will find a treatment plan that suits best.
Now taking new clients. To contact me, make an appointment for a phone call at calendly.com/rainfallwellness. (I am bad at voicemail and email.) I welcome TRANS and GNB folks. I welcome PLURALS and SYSTEMS. I work with people who have ADHD and I prescribe ADHD meds. I teach clients about how our brain causes our symptoms. I do my best to provide safe and respectful care to my Queer and Gender-nonconforming sibs. Together, we will find a treatment plan that suits best.
(971) 253-7516 View (971) 253-7516
Photo of Cary Shore, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cary Shore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
*** NOW OFFERING TELE-MEDICINE*** I am a doctorally prepared Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and provide the following services: comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, diagnose and prescribe medications as necessary, as well as providing therapy. I have a special interest in working with adults, particularly those in their 20s and 30s as many are starting to transition to adulthood.
*** NOW OFFERING TELE-MEDICINE*** I am a doctorally prepared Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and provide the following services: comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, diagnose and prescribe medications as necessary, as well as providing therapy. I have a special interest in working with adults, particularly those in their 20s and 30s as many are starting to transition to adulthood.
(503) 683-8114 View (503) 683-8114
Photo of Sarah R Paul, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah R Paul
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Now accepting new patients! Our practice "Vitellaria Wellness" is currently accepting clients for medication management, ketamine, individual therapy, and other services. See our website for details. Consultation, supervision and precepting services available for mental health clinicians.
Now accepting new patients! Our practice "Vitellaria Wellness" is currently accepting clients for medication management, ketamine, individual therapy, and other services. See our website for details. Consultation, supervision and precepting services available for mental health clinicians.
(503) 406-9206 View (503) 406-9206
Photo of Erik Lee, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erik Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Are you ready to begin (or continue) your journey to outstanding mental health? The judicious use of medications can sometimes be the key to sustained and improved mental health. If medication has helped in the past; if you feel you have exhausted other approaches; or even if you have an aversion to prescribed medications, my expertise can help. I provide clinical services (including telemedicine) to patients who have (or suspect they have) ADHD; and/or who struggle with mood, anxiety, or trauma-related issues. I also assist clients taper off medications safely, where previous attempts to do so may have proved challenging.
Are you ready to begin (or continue) your journey to outstanding mental health? The judicious use of medications can sometimes be the key to sustained and improved mental health. If medication has helped in the past; if you feel you have exhausted other approaches; or even if you have an aversion to prescribed medications, my expertise can help. I provide clinical services (including telemedicine) to patients who have (or suspect they have) ADHD; and/or who struggle with mood, anxiety, or trauma-related issues. I also assist clients taper off medications safely, where previous attempts to do so may have proved challenging.
(503) 868-2632 View (503) 868-2632
Photo of Nichole Slykhous, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nichole Slykhous
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Nichole practices Integrative Psychiatry to help you identify and treat the underlying cause(s) and contributors to symptoms of depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, brain fog, fatigue, and other contemporary mental health conditions. ​ Integrative Psychiatry is a personalized approach to mental health that uses functional medicine and traditional psychiatry to identify and treat core imbalances which affect your brain, body, and life.
Nichole practices Integrative Psychiatry to help you identify and treat the underlying cause(s) and contributors to symptoms of depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, brain fog, fatigue, and other contemporary mental health conditions. ​ Integrative Psychiatry is a personalized approach to mental health that uses functional medicine and traditional psychiatry to identify and treat core imbalances which affect your brain, body, and life.
(971) 999-3153 View (971) 999-3153
Photo of Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients), DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Corvallis, OR 97330  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
(541) 204-4906 View (541) 204-4906
Photo of Joe Cross-Sarvis - Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients), DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
(971) 252-7298 View (971) 252-7298
Photo of Sana Goldberg, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sana Goldberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I practice with warmth and curiosity, accepting others where they are in the present and respecting the many experiences they arrive to it with. I am devoted to helping those I work with develop a new understanding of their patterns, desires, inner conflicts, and pain carried in the body from overwhelming life conditions and experiences. I meet others where they are, embrace their stories, and offer a therapeutic relationship that is nurturing, collaborative, and growth oriented.
I practice with warmth and curiosity, accepting others where they are in the present and respecting the many experiences they arrive to it with. I am devoted to helping those I work with develop a new understanding of their patterns, desires, inner conflicts, and pain carried in the body from overwhelming life conditions and experiences. I meet others where they are, embrace their stories, and offer a therapeutic relationship that is nurturing, collaborative, and growth oriented.
(503) 386-0729 View (503) 386-0729
Photo of Robert Olsen, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert Olsen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703  (Online Only)
Welcome— My name is Dr. Robert Olsen. I am a board-certified medical doctor specializing in psychiatry. I have over 20 years of experience in the field. My clinical experience includes outpatient pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, inpatient psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, and geriatric psychiatry. Currently, I am working as medical director for BestMind Behavioral Health and seeing clients for individual treatment. In addition, I apply interventional psychiatric approaches such as esketamine nasal treatment and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) Therapy for treatment-resistant depression.
Welcome— My name is Dr. Robert Olsen. I am a board-certified medical doctor specializing in psychiatry. I have over 20 years of experience in the field. My clinical experience includes outpatient pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, inpatient psychiatry, emergency psychiatry, and geriatric psychiatry. Currently, I am working as medical director for BestMind Behavioral Health and seeing clients for individual treatment. In addition, I apply interventional psychiatric approaches such as esketamine nasal treatment and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) Therapy for treatment-resistant depression.
(458) 291-0393 View (458) 291-0393
Photo of Alysa Zalma, MD, Psychiatrist
Alysa Zalma
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
My areas of expertise include Mind Body Medicine and the psychodynamic treatment of anxiety spectrum disorders, depression, trauma, and issues relating to body image. I teach and speak extensively on how the physiologic mechanisms of the inflammatory process promotes the above disease states and how, through the utilization of psychoanalytic and mindfulness techniques, optimal change can be achieved. I utilize the combination of psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and mindfulness heavily supported in the medical literature in my private practice.
My areas of expertise include Mind Body Medicine and the psychodynamic treatment of anxiety spectrum disorders, depression, trauma, and issues relating to body image. I teach and speak extensively on how the physiologic mechanisms of the inflammatory process promotes the above disease states and how, through the utilization of psychoanalytic and mindfulness techniques, optimal change can be achieved. I utilize the combination of psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and mindfulness heavily supported in the medical literature in my private practice.
(503) 622-8292 View (503) 622-8292
Photo of Chelsia Burkes-Brown - Carative Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carative Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Keizer, OR 97303  (Online Only)
Chelsia Burkes-Brown is a Board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who sees clients in Oregon, Maryland, Washington, Maryland and Florida. She has over eleven years of nursing experience in a variety of settings, including inpatient psychiatric care across the lifespan. She is committed to providing both competent and compassionate care to her clients. She places high value on a client’s full participation in the development of each treatment plan to encourage compliance and believes everyone deserves to have access to high-quality mental health care. She specializes in children, teenagers, and young adults.
Chelsia Burkes-Brown is a Board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who sees clients in Oregon, Maryland, Washington, Maryland and Florida. She has over eleven years of nursing experience in a variety of settings, including inpatient psychiatric care across the lifespan. She is committed to providing both competent and compassionate care to her clients. She places high value on a client’s full participation in the development of each treatment plan to encourage compliance and believes everyone deserves to have access to high-quality mental health care. She specializes in children, teenagers, and young adults.
(971) 247-1393 View (971) 247-1393
Photo of Kelli L Holloway, MD, Psychiatrist
Kelli L Holloway
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
As a psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, I enjoy working with a wide variety of mental health concerns. I have developed special expertise in helping persons with self esteem issues, relationship problems, midlife and career transitions and trauma. I believe that talking through ones struggles, burdens, losses and pain leads to greater fulfillment in life, a sense of hope and joy. It is a privilege to be invited to accompany another on their personal journey. Psychotherapy is hard work but well worth the investment in oneself for discovering potential in love, work and play.
As a psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, I enjoy working with a wide variety of mental health concerns. I have developed special expertise in helping persons with self esteem issues, relationship problems, midlife and career transitions and trauma. I believe that talking through ones struggles, burdens, losses and pain leads to greater fulfillment in life, a sense of hope and joy. It is a privilege to be invited to accompany another on their personal journey. Psychotherapy is hard work but well worth the investment in oneself for discovering potential in love, work and play.
(971) 339-3104 View (971) 339-3104
Photo of Carmen Kosicek - Visionary Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Visionary Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
Depressed? Did you know that there are new treatment options offering relief from depression in 2 weeks?!?! No, not SSRI's. No, not SNRI's. YES.... covered by insurance and no, not a huge out of pocket spend! Finally, there IS help & hope for YOU! ADHD challenged? ADHD focused care assessed with Neurocognitive Testing & current, once a day treatments! Psychiatric Medication Management offered online throughout Oregon. In person visits in Tigard, Oregon. Currently accepting new patients! Reach out today at www.visionarypsych.com
(971) 257-8415 View (971) 257-8415
Photo of Andrew Williams - Northstar Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist
Northstar Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97006  (Online Only)
At Northstar Psychiatry we treat adults and adolescents across the spectrum of psychiatric needs while specializing in treating depression. We bring a multimodal approach to treating depression and we understand that medication is not always the answer to addressing a person's needs. Sometimes it's therapy, sometimes it's a combination. For some, an interventional approach using a non-pharmacological treatment like transcranial magnetic stimulation is the right answer. Our goal is to work with each individual to create a treatment plan that meets their individual needs using cutting edge science alongside tried and true methods
At Northstar Psychiatry we treat adults and adolescents across the spectrum of psychiatric needs while specializing in treating depression. We bring a multimodal approach to treating depression and we understand that medication is not always the answer to addressing a person's needs. Sometimes it's therapy, sometimes it's a combination. For some, an interventional approach using a non-pharmacological treatment like transcranial magnetic stimulation is the right answer. Our goal is to work with each individual to create a treatment plan that meets their individual needs using cutting edge science alongside tried and true methods
(971) 265-8607 View (971) 265-8607
Photo of Anicka Oyer Meyers, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anicka Oyer Meyers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and through gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and through gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
(503) 564-1935 View (503) 564-1935
Photo of Davonna Wilson, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Davonna Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97086  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
(412) 312-3283 View (412) 312-3283
1
Transgender Psychiatrists

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.