LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 92701

Photo of Brittany Ahern Nwachie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Ahern Nwachie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701  (Online Only)
I really enjoy working with adult individuals who identify as LGBTQIA2S+, queer, ADHD/Autistic, neurodivergent, 2E/Gifted (or formerly gifted and now just burnt-out), creative, artistic, alt, and anyone who has just felt like an “other”.
Oftentimes we can get pulled into and swept away by our intense emotions, self-defeating thought patterns and our painful experiences and memories. Sometimes we have to wear so many masks that it becomes challenging to know who really is under those masks. Other times we just feel…stuck. Clients that enjoy working with me are wanting to get to know themselves more, learn ways to cope with the chaos of their internal and external experiences, and learn to live a meaningful and full life. It can be scary to admit we want these things, but there may be a part of you that resonates with these statements.
I really enjoy working with adult individuals who identify as LGBTQIA2S+, queer, ADHD/Autistic, neurodivergent, 2E/Gifted (or formerly gifted and now just burnt-out), creative, artistic, alt, and anyone who has just felt like an “other”.
Oftentimes we can get pulled into and swept away by our intense emotions, self-defeating thought patterns and our painful experiences and memories. Sometimes we have to wear so many masks that it becomes challenging to know who really is under those masks. Other times we just feel…stuck. Clients that enjoy working with me are wanting to get to know themselves more, learn ways to cope with the chaos of their internal and external experiences, and learn to live a meaningful and full life. It can be scary to admit we want these things, but there may be a part of you that resonates with these statements.
(714) 909-2183 View (714) 909-2183
Photo of Brittany Hardin, AMFT
Brittany Hardin
AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701
My services are focused on promoting empowerment to marginalized groups including People of diverse backgrounds, the LGBTQ+ community, and People with Disabilities while connecting them to the resources needed to thrive in the larger community.
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and background as a special needs para-educator. I have worked to help children with diverse physical, intellectual and behavioral needs, along with their families, process issues of shame, guilt, and grief. Now as a therapist, I provide access to life-affirming mental health processing groups and individual counseling. I provide a holistic, Trauma Informed method celebrating the intersectionality of our identities in individual services, counseling with youth, families, and couples as well as group therapy.
My services are focused on promoting empowerment to marginalized groups including People of diverse backgrounds, the LGBTQ+ community, and People with Disabilities while connecting them to the resources needed to thrive in the larger community.
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and background as a special needs para-educator. I have worked to help children with diverse physical, intellectual and behavioral needs, along with their families, process issues of shame, guilt, and grief. Now as a therapist, I provide access to life-affirming mental health processing groups and individual counseling. I provide a holistic, Trauma Informed method celebrating the intersectionality of our identities in individual services, counseling with youth, families, and couples as well as group therapy.
(714) 519-2778 View (714) 519-2778
Photo of Kristen Crowe - Open Space Therapy Collective, LPCC, BC-DMT
Kristen Crowe - Open Space Therapy Collective
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
You deserve to feel good in your body. You deserve relationships that contribute to your well-being- not detract from it. You deserve to enjoy healthy expressions of your sexuality. But due to societal pressures and less-than-helpful toxic norms and legacies, these are areas where many people struggle. As a sex-positive, anti-racist, queer & trans-knowledgeable therapist, I’m here to provide non-judgemental support. In therapy, you’ll learn gentle tools to help you love and accept your body, manage your stress, elevate your mood, and improve your relationships.
You deserve to feel good in your body. You deserve relationships that contribute to your well-being- not detract from it. You deserve to enjoy healthy expressions of your sexuality. But due to societal pressures and less-than-helpful toxic norms and legacies, these are areas where many people struggle. As a sex-positive, anti-racist, queer & trans-knowledgeable therapist, I’m here to provide non-judgemental support. In therapy, you’ll learn gentle tools to help you love and accept your body, manage your stress, elevate your mood, and improve your relationships.
(818) 696-4274 View (818) 696-4274
Photo of Jeremiah Matters - LGBTQ+ Therapy for Couples & Individuals, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
LGBTQ+ Therapy for Couples & Individuals
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701  (Online Only)
I'm an openly gay therapist and proud member of the LGBTQ+ Community and I have been personally navigating my own Coming Out Journey for over 20 years, so I understand what you're going through, and I offer a safe space to allow you to discover your authentic self and to let others see who you were born to be.
Navigating the Coming Out Journey is a lifelong process, and going through it—with or without a partner—while dealing with the judgment and expectations from family, work, church, and society, instills shame, fear, confusion, pain, suffering, and loss that seems to control every waking moment.
I'm an openly gay therapist and proud member of the LGBTQ+ Community and I have been personally navigating my own Coming Out Journey for over 20 years, so I understand what you're going through, and I offer a safe space to allow you to discover your authentic self and to let others see who you were born to be.
Navigating the Coming Out Journey is a lifelong process, and going through it—with or without a partner—while dealing with the judgment and expectations from family, work, church, and society, instills shame, fear, confusion, pain, suffering, and loss that seems to control every waking moment.
(657) 216-9998 View (657) 216-9998
Photo of Nathan Smith, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nathan Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701
I specialize in working with people within the BIPOC and LGBTQ communities and all are welcome here.
Do you feel stuck in your patterns of thought and behavior? Do you feel like there must be a better way to live as an individual and in relationships? Do you struggle to live with the impacts of depression, anxiety, or ADHD? You are not alone and I'm here to help. So much of how you experience yourself, others, and the world can be understood through experiences you had within your family, school, and culture. Understanding these influences and the ideas that they made reality, can free up space for you to choose your own experiences and relationships.
I specialize in working with people within the BIPOC and LGBTQ communities and all are welcome here.
Do you feel stuck in your patterns of thought and behavior? Do you feel like there must be a better way to live as an individual and in relationships? Do you struggle to live with the impacts of depression, anxiety, or ADHD? You are not alone and I'm here to help. So much of how you experience yourself, others, and the world can be understood through experiences you had within your family, school, and culture. Understanding these influences and the ideas that they made reality, can free up space for you to choose your own experiences and relationships.
(760) 924-9402 View (760) 924-9402
Photo of Andy Park, MA, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andy Park
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701
I'm also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT) with experience working with Asian American men, Christian ministry workers, and LGBTQ clients.
I'm a 2nd generation Korean-American Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in trauma, sexual addictions, and Christian spirituality issues. Not everyone is gravely affected by trauma, but some of us may find that our past experiences have made it increasingly difficult to manage our lives. As an EMDRIA Certified EMDR Therapist (and Consultant in Training), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), and Certified Brainspotting Professional (BSP), I employ the latest techniques to help people recover from trauma and learn to see life from a more adaptive perspective.
I'm also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT) with experience working with Asian American men, Christian ministry workers, and LGBTQ clients.
I'm a 2nd generation Korean-American Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in trauma, sexual addictions, and Christian spirituality issues. Not everyone is gravely affected by trauma, but some of us may find that our past experiences have made it increasingly difficult to manage our lives. As an EMDRIA Certified EMDR Therapist (and Consultant in Training), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), and Certified Brainspotting Professional (BSP), I employ the latest techniques to help people recover from trauma and learn to see life from a more adaptive perspective.
(714) 831-5092 View (714) 831-5092
Photo of Arely Cholula, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Arely Cholula
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
I have extensive experience in the areas of: Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Identity, LGBT, PTSD, Self-esteem, Mood Disorders and Marital Issues.
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who wants to help you use your undiscovered strengths and natural resilience to reconnect with your dreams, hopes, and goals. Life is a journey with many views, experiences and directions, and at times we encounter storms or struggles along the way. I offer a safe, comfortable, and trusting space where you can explore practical solutions to your life challenges and work toward your goals. Let’s work together to explore your journey and create an individualized treatment plan that is based on your strengths.
I have extensive experience in the areas of: Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Identity, LGBT, PTSD, Self-esteem, Mood Disorders and Marital Issues.
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who wants to help you use your undiscovered strengths and natural resilience to reconnect with your dreams, hopes, and goals. Life is a journey with many views, experiences and directions, and at times we encounter storms or struggles along the way. I offer a safe, comfortable, and trusting space where you can explore practical solutions to your life challenges and work toward your goals. Let’s work together to explore your journey and create an individualized treatment plan that is based on your strengths.
(657) 325-2105 View (657) 325-2105
Photo of Justin McArdle, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Justin McArdle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701
My interests include Asian American struggles, challenges unique to the LGBTQIA+ community, and religious trauma.
I am glad you are here! It can take time to share one’s feelings or identify them, and I create a safe environment that allows my clients to express themselves, feel, connect, and grow in self-awareness. Working alongside anyone seeking healing and growth is a gift and privilege. If you are looking for someone who can walk alongside you and help process what lies beneath the surface, I would be honored to be that person. For those interested in utilizing EMDR to recover from trauma or difficult experiences, I am EMDR-trained through EMDRIA.
My interests include Asian American struggles, challenges unique to the LGBTQIA+ community, and religious trauma.
I am glad you are here! It can take time to share one’s feelings or identify them, and I create a safe environment that allows my clients to express themselves, feel, connect, and grow in self-awareness. Working alongside anyone seeking healing and growth is a gift and privilege. If you are looking for someone who can walk alongside you and help process what lies beneath the surface, I would be honored to be that person. For those interested in utilizing EMDR to recover from trauma or difficult experiences, I am EMDR-trained through EMDRIA.
(714) 559-3404 x14 View (714) 559-3404 x14
Photo of Joy Rufener, MA, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Joy Rufener
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Also, I'm a queer therapist familiar with non-traditional relationship structures.
Is life feeling like too much to handle alone lately? Are you feeling stuck or hopeless? Do you struggle to prioritize yourself or even know who you are or what you want? You are not alone. This non-judgmental space has been created for you to unload your burden. You will be listened to, believed in, acknowledged, and seen. You will be welcomed. You are invited to create this space for yourself. Together we will embark on a journey toward emotional healing and wholeness, exploring mind, body, and spirit.
Also, I'm a queer therapist familiar with non-traditional relationship structures.
Is life feeling like too much to handle alone lately? Are you feeling stuck or hopeless? Do you struggle to prioritize yourself or even know who you are or what you want? You are not alone. This non-judgmental space has been created for you to unload your burden. You will be listened to, believed in, acknowledged, and seen. You will be welcomed. You are invited to create this space for yourself. Together we will embark on a journey toward emotional healing and wholeness, exploring mind, body, and spirit.
(562) 553-8905 View (562) 553-8905
Photo of Christi Gallon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christi Gallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
(657) 571-6400 View (657) 571-6400
Photo of Kathlynn Gates, ASW
Kathlynn Gates
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with issues stemming from substance abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and personality disorders.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with issues stemming from substance abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and personality disorders.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(714) 276-6308 View (714) 276-6308
Photo of Lynne Palmer, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynne Palmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of clients. To choose one ideal client would be impossible for me. I have enjoyed working with adolescents, children, young adults, older adults, couples, and families. Treatment has included addressing anger issues, substance abuse, self-esteem deficits, depression, anxiety, marital issues, domestic violence, as well as gay/lesbian issues. Utilizing a positive regard for each client while creating a treatment plan with the client to address his/her concerns, I strive to develop therapeutic relationships with my clients that will maximize effective healing.
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of clients. To choose one ideal client would be impossible for me. I have enjoyed working with adolescents, children, young adults, older adults, couples, and families. Treatment has included addressing anger issues, substance abuse, self-esteem deficits, depression, anxiety, marital issues, domestic violence, as well as gay/lesbian issues. Utilizing a positive regard for each client while creating a treatment plan with the client to address his/her concerns, I strive to develop therapeutic relationships with my clients that will maximize effective healing.
(714) 594-5981 View (714) 594-5981
Photo of Claudia Oreegal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia Oreegal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
My experience includes working with diverse groups (Active-Duty Military/Veterans and their family members, LatinX, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+) of clients that have encountered addiction/substance misuse, homelessness, incarceration, trauma, grief and loss, anger management, depression, and anxiety.
Hello, my name is Claudia Oreegal and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California seeing clients via telehealth. I work with adult individuals and specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief addiction/substance misuse, and adjustment to phases of life while walking alongside clients to help them identify the root of their challenges and work towards creating a balance in life that works best for them.
My experience includes working with diverse groups (Active-Duty Military/Veterans and their family members, LatinX, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+) of clients that have encountered addiction/substance misuse, homelessness, incarceration, trauma, grief and loss, anger management, depression, and anxiety.
Hello, my name is Claudia Oreegal and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California seeing clients via telehealth. I work with adult individuals and specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief addiction/substance misuse, and adjustment to phases of life while walking alongside clients to help them identify the root of their challenges and work towards creating a balance in life that works best for them.
(858) 779-0208 View (858) 779-0208
Photo of Alexandra Strait, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexandra Strait
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
I want you to know that I am an ally to Black, Indigenous, people of color, LGBTQIA+, and Asian American.
Hello! Specialty: Anxiety, Trauma, Depression. My therapeutic approach is tailored carefully for each individual or family but no matter what I believe strongly in developing a working relationship with clients so that they may feel supported and heard in session. I believe each person has the right and ability to reflect, grow, and change. Therapy is about exploration and finding the strength in yourself. Building yourself and your environment by making needed changes. My passion is helping the individual find and honor who they are.
I want you to know that I am an ally to Black, Indigenous, people of color, LGBTQIA+, and Asian American.
Hello! Specialty: Anxiety, Trauma, Depression. My therapeutic approach is tailored carefully for each individual or family but no matter what I believe strongly in developing a working relationship with clients so that they may feel supported and heard in session. I believe each person has the right and ability to reflect, grow, and change. Therapy is about exploration and finding the strength in yourself. Building yourself and your environment by making needed changes. My passion is helping the individual find and honor who they are.
(949) 229-2417 View (949) 229-2417
Photo of Adrian M Gonzalez, MSW, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Adrian M Gonzalez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701  (Online Only)
I work to provide trauma informed, healing centered therapy to individuals who exist at various intersections of identities including LGBTQ+ individuals, and PLWH.
Hi my name is Adrian and welcome to my psychology today page! Choosing the right therapist is important. Thank you for taking the time to review my page. As a clinical social worker my goal is to support people through the complexities of life. My approach to therapy is person centered. My goal is to partner with individuals to support them in navigating symptoms related to trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress.
I work to provide trauma informed, healing centered therapy to individuals who exist at various intersections of identities including LGBTQ+ individuals, and PLWH.
Hi my name is Adrian and welcome to my psychology today page! Choosing the right therapist is important. Thank you for taking the time to review my page. As a clinical social worker my goal is to support people through the complexities of life. My approach to therapy is person centered. My goal is to partner with individuals to support them in navigating symptoms related to trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress.
(323) 473-4691 View (323) 473-4691
Photo of Jordyn Dugan, MS, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jordyn Dugan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701  (Online Only)
I believe that you are the expert of your own experience. Everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported in their journey towards self-discovery and acceptance. I am deeply honored to walk alongside my clients as they navigate the complexities of self-discovery, healing, and growth. Together, we can embark on a journey towards self-acceptance, authenticity, and resilience. I help adults, adolescents, and children with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, trauma, low self-esteem, ADHD/ADD, and gender-questioning issues from a person-centered approach.
I believe that you are the expert of your own experience. Everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported in their journey towards self-discovery and acceptance. I am deeply honored to walk alongside my clients as they navigate the complexities of self-discovery, healing, and growth. Together, we can embark on a journey towards self-acceptance, authenticity, and resilience. I help adults, adolescents, and children with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, trauma, low self-esteem, ADHD/ADD, and gender-questioning issues from a person-centered approach.
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Photo of Rudy Loera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rudy Loera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
I have 10 years of experience working with individuals and families that struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, grief and loss, ADHD, behavioral issues, life transitions, communication issues, family conflict, parenting issues, marital/premarital issues, low self-esteem, substance abuse and trauma.
I have 10 years of experience working with individuals and families that struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, grief and loss, ADHD, behavioral issues, life transitions, communication issues, family conflict, parenting issues, marital/premarital issues, low self-esteem, substance abuse and trauma.
(657) 218-2578 View (657) 218-2578
Photo of Jennifer Uhlman, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Uhlman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Ever felt as though you no longer have control over your own story, as if anxiety and depression are villains preventing you from enjoying the adventures and stories of your own life? I am here to help you find empowerment, growth, and healing and accomplish your goals as we use your passions to help re-author your own story. We can also work together in person or via teletherapy, and if you're a parent seeking help for your children, there are ways to work together online if that better fits your needs.
Ever felt as though you no longer have control over your own story, as if anxiety and depression are villains preventing you from enjoying the adventures and stories of your own life? I am here to help you find empowerment, growth, and healing and accomplish your goals as we use your passions to help re-author your own story. We can also work together in person or via teletherapy, and if you're a parent seeking help for your children, there are ways to work together online if that better fits your needs.
(949) 238-1493 View (949) 238-1493
Photo of Don Diva, MS, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Don Diva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Are you stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns? Are you coping with the stress of life in destructive ways- by bottling up your feelings or acting out through addiction or in toxic relationships? You do not have to struggle alone. During the different stages of our lives, our relationships, and our family life cycle, we can get stuck in certain places. As your therapist we would work together to help you find what you need so that you can move through these stuck places, experience healthier relationships, find hope and be free from destructive behaviors.
Are you stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns? Are you coping with the stress of life in destructive ways- by bottling up your feelings or acting out through addiction or in toxic relationships? You do not have to struggle alone. During the different stages of our lives, our relationships, and our family life cycle, we can get stuck in certain places. As your therapist we would work together to help you find what you need so that you can move through these stuck places, experience healthier relationships, find hope and be free from destructive behaviors.
(714) 882-5711 x3 View (714) 882-5711 x3
Photo of Andrea Godoy-Orantes, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea Godoy-Orantes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Are you wanting to be heard, understood, and validated by a compassionate, culturally sensitive, and bilingual professional experienced at working with Latino, Hispanic, & American cultures? Look no further. I am here for you and dedicated to helping individuals overcome traumas and obstacles, build upon their strengths, and create a sense of safety. We can work on your goals together in English or in Spanish.
Are you wanting to be heard, understood, and validated by a compassionate, culturally sensitive, and bilingual professional experienced at working with Latino, Hispanic, & American cultures? Look no further. I am here for you and dedicated to helping individuals overcome traumas and obstacles, build upon their strengths, and create a sense of safety. We can work on your goals together in English or in Spanish.
(657) 214-7238 View (657) 214-7238
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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.