LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 28223

Photo of Stephanie Walthour, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Walthour
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
She has many years of experience working with: PTSD, Trauma Victims; Couples; Blended Families & those who identify as LGBTQ.
Stephanie is a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who specializes in improving the relationships and quality of life for her clients. She is dedicated to helping couples and families deal with concerns ranging from sexual issues, abuse, anger management, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ concerns, behavioral, and self-esteem issues.
She has many years of experience working with: PTSD, Trauma Victims; Couples; Blended Families & those who identify as LGBTQ.
Stephanie is a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who specializes in improving the relationships and quality of life for her clients. She is dedicated to helping couples and families deal with concerns ranging from sexual issues, abuse, anger management, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ concerns, behavioral, and self-esteem issues.
(704) 324-8205 View (704) 324-8205
Photo of Karly Perkins, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Karly Perkins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, my hope is to create a space that feels welcoming to your authentic self. I aim to hold space for you to show up as you need to that day, and will honor what you need in each session whether that is a space to vent, explore new skills, be challenged, or create goals that will meet your needs. I specialize in working eating disorders and body image concerns, substance use, college students, and the LGBTQ+ community. I additionally support those experiencing anxiety, depression, impacts from trauma, identity development, life transitions, and safety concerns such as self -harm or suicidality.
As a therapist, my hope is to create a space that feels welcoming to your authentic self. I aim to hold space for you to show up as you need to that day, and will honor what you need in each session whether that is a space to vent, explore new skills, be challenged, or create goals that will meet your needs. I specialize in working eating disorders and body image concerns, substance use, college students, and the LGBTQ+ community. I additionally support those experiencing anxiety, depression, impacts from trauma, identity development, life transitions, and safety concerns such as self -harm or suicidality.
(980) 525-8519 View (980) 525-8519
Photo of Alex Alvarez Rivas, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Alvarez Rivas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
I bring empathy and laughter into my sessions and am committed to providing inclusive and affirming therapy to traditionally underserved clients, including those with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ identities.
Hi! If you are looking into therapy with a goal of feeling better, I am here to support you with that goal. I am a bilingual Latina therapist specializing in providing multicultural and trauma-informed care. Each of my sessions is tailored to you, taking into account your unique identities, history, and goals. Whether you are feeling alone, overwhelmed, facing challenges in this period of your life, or need another support in your circle, I am here to stand with you as we cultivate healing and joy.
I bring empathy and laughter into my sessions and am committed to providing inclusive and affirming therapy to traditionally underserved clients, including those with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ identities.
Hi! If you are looking into therapy with a goal of feeling better, I am here to support you with that goal. I am a bilingual Latina therapist specializing in providing multicultural and trauma-informed care. Each of my sessions is tailored to you, taking into account your unique identities, history, and goals. Whether you are feeling alone, overwhelmed, facing challenges in this period of your life, or need another support in your circle, I am here to stand with you as we cultivate healing and joy.
(980) 577-6647 View (980) 577-6647
Photo of Toni Mason, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Toni Mason
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223
"We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them." - Albert Einstein. If you are someone who is looking for a change in your life or who desires a new perspective, you are exactly where you are supposed to be. Recognizing and changing old patterns can be difficult work but you don't have take that journey alone. People who find my style of counseling most useful tend to appreciate a gentle but direct approach. My specialties include older adults (60+), veterans, domestic violence survivors, couples and folx in LGBTQIA+ community (including polyamory/ethical non-monogamy).
"We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them." - Albert Einstein. If you are someone who is looking for a change in your life or who desires a new perspective, you are exactly where you are supposed to be. Recognizing and changing old patterns can be difficult work but you don't have take that journey alone. People who find my style of counseling most useful tend to appreciate a gentle but direct approach. My specialties include older adults (60+), veterans, domestic violence survivors, couples and folx in LGBTQIA+ community (including polyamory/ethical non-monogamy).
(704) 994-8608 View (704) 994-8608
Photo of Amber L. Borcyk, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber L. Borcyk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
It can be scary to be honest with oneself, let alone with others. Yet, most of us still desire to be seen, loved, and accepted. I work with people curious about how their childhood, cultural background(s), identities, and trauma influence how they relate to themselves, family, lovers, friends, and authority figures. My work centers on anti-racism and the lived experiences of folks who are Queer, Transgender, Polyamourous, or Kinky. I enjoy working with people outside of these identities as well. Modalities I utilize are Relationship Analysis, EMDR, Parts Work, Psychodynamic Techniques, and Sex Therapy.
It can be scary to be honest with oneself, let alone with others. Yet, most of us still desire to be seen, loved, and accepted. I work with people curious about how their childhood, cultural background(s), identities, and trauma influence how they relate to themselves, family, lovers, friends, and authority figures. My work centers on anti-racism and the lived experiences of folks who are Queer, Transgender, Polyamourous, or Kinky. I enjoy working with people outside of these identities as well. Modalities I utilize are Relationship Analysis, EMDR, Parts Work, Psychodynamic Techniques, and Sex Therapy.
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Photo of Kenzie Mizell, MA, LMFT, C-DBT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kenzie Mizell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28223
I show up authentically to sessions as a queer, neurodivergent therapist.
Relationships are hard and the struggles we experience can be complex. We don’t always understand or have the words to explain what's going on in our lives- but we know we aren't feeling how we want to. The traditional approach to therapy can be intimidating and at times, hard to understand. In my sessions, we will build our relationship with humor & compassion. I believe that everyone's struggles are unique. I'm here to help guide you to discover the best ways to heal in your situation. I am passionate in helping couples, families, and individuals heal through reframing and normalizing your conflicts while creating new experiences.
I show up authentically to sessions as a queer, neurodivergent therapist.
Relationships are hard and the struggles we experience can be complex. We don’t always understand or have the words to explain what's going on in our lives- but we know we aren't feeling how we want to. The traditional approach to therapy can be intimidating and at times, hard to understand. In my sessions, we will build our relationship with humor & compassion. I believe that everyone's struggles are unique. I'm here to help guide you to discover the best ways to heal in your situation. I am passionate in helping couples, families, and individuals heal through reframing and normalizing your conflicts while creating new experiences.
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Photo of Kristin Mosley, LMHCA
Kristin Mosley
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
Welcome to my profile! My goals are to help clients navigate difficult seasons of life, manage complex emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and live a meaningful life. My therapeutic style is direct, open, and collaborative. I am passionate about respecting diversity, and I provide LGBTQ+, culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed care. In sessions, I like to use a blend of mindfulness-based interventions like DBT and ACT paired with an unstructured use of CBT and solutions-focused therapy. I also like to include activities using art, music, and play.
Welcome to my profile! My goals are to help clients navigate difficult seasons of life, manage complex emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and live a meaningful life. My therapeutic style is direct, open, and collaborative. I am passionate about respecting diversity, and I provide LGBTQ+, culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed care. In sessions, I like to use a blend of mindfulness-based interventions like DBT and ACT paired with an unstructured use of CBT and solutions-focused therapy. I also like to include activities using art, music, and play.
(704) 610-1864 View (704) 610-1864
Photo of Caitlin Eckert, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Eckert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
I welcome sex workers, people who use substances, people living with HIV, and the LGBTQIA+ community into my practice.
Working with a therapist should feel safe, and that has remained one of my top priorities over my 10+ years of providing therapy. Some of my clients have had therapists before, some are changing therapists, and others are brand new to therapy. Many of my clients are working through previous trauma (childhood and adulthood), have experienced complicated loss, and many belong to a marginalized community. Some of my clients benefit from long-term therapy, while others engage in brief therapy to help get back on track to a better quality of life. Wherever you are in this process, I welcome you!
I welcome sex workers, people who use substances, people living with HIV, and the LGBTQIA+ community into my practice.
Working with a therapist should feel safe, and that has remained one of my top priorities over my 10+ years of providing therapy. Some of my clients have had therapists before, some are changing therapists, and others are brand new to therapy. Many of my clients are working through previous trauma (childhood and adulthood), have experienced complicated loss, and many belong to a marginalized community. Some of my clients benefit from long-term therapy, while others engage in brief therapy to help get back on track to a better quality of life. Wherever you are in this process, I welcome you!
(984) 464-4597 View (984) 464-4597
Photo of Allie Barker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allie Barker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
Have you been waiting on hold trying to make a doctor’s appointment and think, “when did I become an adult?” How many mornings have you woken up and thought “here comes another day of adulting?” Navigating the world is hard enough but when you add paying bills, dating apps/relationships, school/work, and family, life can easily get overwhelming. My goal is to help you navigate the choppy waters of adulthood. We will work together to forge a path through modern-day responsibilities and expectations in the midst of all the chaos. My job as a therapist is to support your goals and always be a listening ear.
Have you been waiting on hold trying to make a doctor’s appointment and think, “when did I become an adult?” How many mornings have you woken up and thought “here comes another day of adulting?” Navigating the world is hard enough but when you add paying bills, dating apps/relationships, school/work, and family, life can easily get overwhelming. My goal is to help you navigate the choppy waters of adulthood. We will work together to forge a path through modern-day responsibilities and expectations in the midst of all the chaos. My job as a therapist is to support your goals and always be a listening ear.
(828) 373-3997 View (828) 373-3997
Photo of Dr. Demetrius Cofield - Cofield Counseling and Clinical Supervision, PhD, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Cofield Counseling and Clinical Supervision
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
Welcome to the first step in your healing journey! I specialize in helping clients rediscover themselves, work through unresolved issues, and cope with life transitions while providing an authentic, comfortable and supportive environment. I believe the counseling relationship is crucial in the healing journey and I provide a laid back and relatable approach to therapy. Together we will work to process long standing behavior patterns and negative perceptions that are impacting your life.
Welcome to the first step in your healing journey! I specialize in helping clients rediscover themselves, work through unresolved issues, and cope with life transitions while providing an authentic, comfortable and supportive environment. I believe the counseling relationship is crucial in the healing journey and I provide a laid back and relatable approach to therapy. Together we will work to process long standing behavior patterns and negative perceptions that are impacting your life.
(704) 237-6516 View (704) 237-6516
Photo of Daniel Walker, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, Counselor
Daniel Walker
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
Immediately openings available. Navigating life can be challenging and exhausting. My goal is to help you regain control and fulfillment. My name is Daniel Walker, I'm a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist serving North Carolina. I enjoy guiding individuals toward a path of self-discovery, empowerment, and mental well-being. I believe in creating an open and safe space using a blend of person-centered counseling, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Whether you're an adult, young adult, or teen, I'm here to support you on your positive change journey.
Immediately openings available. Navigating life can be challenging and exhausting. My goal is to help you regain control and fulfillment. My name is Daniel Walker, I'm a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist serving North Carolina. I enjoy guiding individuals toward a path of self-discovery, empowerment, and mental well-being. I believe in creating an open and safe space using a blend of person-centered counseling, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Whether you're an adult, young adult, or teen, I'm here to support you on your positive change journey.
(252) 427-0391 View (252) 427-0391
Photo of Briana Garcia, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Briana Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
I wholeheartedly believe that we are all worthy, capable, and deserving of a fulfilling, loving, and “joy-full” life. Regardless of our past mistakes or experiences, I believe that we all have inherent worth, unique capabilities, and worthwhile goals and aspirations. Life can often throw challenges our way that make us question our value, but through therapy, we can work together to navigate past challenges and build a life that reflects your personal values and goals.
I wholeheartedly believe that we are all worthy, capable, and deserving of a fulfilling, loving, and “joy-full” life. Regardless of our past mistakes or experiences, I believe that we all have inherent worth, unique capabilities, and worthwhile goals and aspirations. Life can often throw challenges our way that make us question our value, but through therapy, we can work together to navigate past challenges and build a life that reflects your personal values and goals.
(919) 246-4738 View (919) 246-4738
Photo of Amanda Richardson, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Amanda Richardson
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello and Welcome! First and foremost, I'd like to commend you on taking the first step. Oftentimes the first step is the hardest, but... YOU'VE DONE IT! Often, I ask clients, “How do you eat an elephant?” After the looks of bewilderment subside, I am most often told, “You can’t”. As your counselor, it is my hope to show you that it can be accomplished. But how? "One small bite at a time." My ideal client is one who is willing to take a chance on becoming the absolute best version of themselves. It is my hope that in working together, we can tackle the stressors of everyday life and get back to living a fulfilled life.
Hello and Welcome! First and foremost, I'd like to commend you on taking the first step. Oftentimes the first step is the hardest, but... YOU'VE DONE IT! Often, I ask clients, “How do you eat an elephant?” After the looks of bewilderment subside, I am most often told, “You can’t”. As your counselor, it is my hope to show you that it can be accomplished. But how? "One small bite at a time." My ideal client is one who is willing to take a chance on becoming the absolute best version of themselves. It is my hope that in working together, we can tackle the stressors of everyday life and get back to living a fulfilled life.
(910) 390-8052 View (910) 390-8052
Photo of Kierra M Mundine, LCMHC
Kierra M Mundine
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
As a licensed therapist I have a passion for helping both teens and adults navigate life's challenges and discover their true potential. As a parent, you want the best for your teenager, and so do I. Whether your teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, or just the everyday stress of growing up, I'm here to provide a safe and supportive space for them. For Adults: Life can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, identify obstacles, and work towards a more authentic and satisfying life.
As a licensed therapist I have a passion for helping both teens and adults navigate life's challenges and discover their true potential. As a parent, you want the best for your teenager, and so do I. Whether your teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, or just the everyday stress of growing up, I'm here to provide a safe and supportive space for them. For Adults: Life can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, identify obstacles, and work towards a more authentic and satisfying life.
(336) 891-4291 View (336) 891-4291
Photo of Melanie Wester Marky, LCMHCA, MSEd, Counselor
Melanie Wester Marky
Counselor, LCMHCA, MSEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223
Do you struggle in a relationship with a partner, family, or even yourself? Do you find it difficult to break repeating cycles in your personal life, or to move past trauma? Do you struggle to feel heard and validated by those you care about, or to set and hold boundaries with them? Maybe you’ve been hurt by infidelity or betrayal, or you just don’t feel emotionally or sexually connected to your partner anymore. No matter what got you here, you’ve already shown you have the strength to take control and to make things better. Let’s keep that positive momentum going! If it’s important to you, it’s important to me… and I can help.
Do you struggle in a relationship with a partner, family, or even yourself? Do you find it difficult to break repeating cycles in your personal life, or to move past trauma? Do you struggle to feel heard and validated by those you care about, or to set and hold boundaries with them? Maybe you’ve been hurt by infidelity or betrayal, or you just don’t feel emotionally or sexually connected to your partner anymore. No matter what got you here, you’ve already shown you have the strength to take control and to make things better. Let’s keep that positive momentum going! If it’s important to you, it’s important to me… and I can help.
(704) 753-8449 View (704) 753-8449
Photo of Teneshia Ledbetter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teneshia Ledbetter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28223
My passion for therapy comes from seeing family members, friends, and peers go through life transitions and hardships. We all have dark days, and sometimes we need someone to hold the candle for us when we have lost the will to hold it for ourselves. Our values, beliefs, culture, and life experiences make us who we are. When those initial beliefs no longer work to maintain our daily lives, we begin to feel stuck. I can provide a calming, safe space to help you get unstuck, and become a better version of yourself.
My passion for therapy comes from seeing family members, friends, and peers go through life transitions and hardships. We all have dark days, and sometimes we need someone to hold the candle for us when we have lost the will to hold it for ourselves. Our values, beliefs, culture, and life experiences make us who we are. When those initial beliefs no longer work to maintain our daily lives, we begin to feel stuck. I can provide a calming, safe space to help you get unstuck, and become a better version of yourself.
(704) 286-9601 View (704) 286-9601
Photo of Tova Woullard, LCSW, LCAS-A, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tova Woullard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS-A, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
Children: 6 to 17. I serve those with ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, body dysmorphia, identity disorders, schizophrenia, addictions, truancy issues, low-self-esteem issues, oppositional defiant disorders, & OCD, and mood disorders. Adults (18+): I work with those who have anxiety, depression, low-self-esteem, addictions, ADHD, personality disorders, identity issues, adjusting to new conditions, PTSD, body dysmorphia, separation (a break-up, divorce, separation issues, new parents, teachers, retired individuals, those with immunodeficiency disorders, anger issues, domestic violence issues, & empty nesters.
Children: 6 to 17. I serve those with ADHD, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, body dysmorphia, identity disorders, schizophrenia, addictions, truancy issues, low-self-esteem issues, oppositional defiant disorders, & OCD, and mood disorders. Adults (18+): I work with those who have anxiety, depression, low-self-esteem, addictions, ADHD, personality disorders, identity issues, adjusting to new conditions, PTSD, body dysmorphia, separation (a break-up, divorce, separation issues, new parents, teachers, retired individuals, those with immunodeficiency disorders, anger issues, domestic violence issues, & empty nesters.
(704) 666-4698 View (704) 666-4698
Photo of Alice Cennamo, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alice Cennamo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223
I help young adult women feel confident, competent, & in control of their lives. My clients are exhausted like you are. Despite being hard working, determined, & creative, they still feel stuck in a loop. They feel like they’re drowning in a storm of stress, high expectations & confusion about the path ahead-- it’s a full time job keeping their head just above the rising water. They vacillate between feeling powerful & powerless, motivated & avoidant, on top of the world & crushed beneath it’s weight. Sometimes they have a formal diagnosis of Anxiety, Depression, or Trauma, and sometimes... well, sometimes life is just hard.
I help young adult women feel confident, competent, & in control of their lives. My clients are exhausted like you are. Despite being hard working, determined, & creative, they still feel stuck in a loop. They feel like they’re drowning in a storm of stress, high expectations & confusion about the path ahead-- it’s a full time job keeping their head just above the rising water. They vacillate between feeling powerful & powerless, motivated & avoidant, on top of the world & crushed beneath it’s weight. Sometimes they have a formal diagnosis of Anxiety, Depression, or Trauma, and sometimes... well, sometimes life is just hard.
(828) 408-0420 View (828) 408-0420
Photo of Jennifer Sutton - Chronic Hope Counseling PLLC, LCMHC
Chronic Hope Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
We have interns for sliding scale sessions, play therapy for children and everything in-between! If you are feeling overwhelmed. anxious, isolated, lonely or simply want to learn how to live your best life with your pain Chronic Hope is the place to be. We offer counseling services for those with chronic pain and illness. Your pain/illness effects everything you do, so it needs to be taken into every consideration as you heal. We can help you learn to live beyond you pain by getting you in your best place mentally. All of our clinicians and interns have personal experience with pain creating a unique, empathetic experience.
We have interns for sliding scale sessions, play therapy for children and everything in-between! If you are feeling overwhelmed. anxious, isolated, lonely or simply want to learn how to live your best life with your pain Chronic Hope is the place to be. We offer counseling services for those with chronic pain and illness. Your pain/illness effects everything you do, so it needs to be taken into every consideration as you heal. We can help you learn to live beyond you pain by getting you in your best place mentally. All of our clinicians and interns have personal experience with pain creating a unique, empathetic experience.
(919) 626-3303 View (919) 626-3303
Photo of Corday Denise Johnson, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Corday Denise Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28223  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with teens and young adults to improve self-confidence, self-esteem, and goals. I specialize in issues of adjusting, anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, fears, and stress management. Through stages of early development, it becomes easy to create unrealistic expectations. This leads to stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, burn-out, etc. You are seen and whether you meet those expectations or not, they effect, you, they effect us. How can we manage trauma, stress, finding self?
I enjoy working with teens and young adults to improve self-confidence, self-esteem, and goals. I specialize in issues of adjusting, anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, fears, and stress management. Through stages of early development, it becomes easy to create unrealistic expectations. This leads to stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, burn-out, etc. You are seen and whether you meet those expectations or not, they effect, you, they effect us. How can we manage trauma, stress, finding self?
(704) 397-4862 View (704) 397-4862

See more therapy options for 28223

LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

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

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

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

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

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

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

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

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

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