LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 92704
Affirming Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92704
Therapists at Affirming Psychological Services have various subspecialties, such as transgender care, trauma treatment, and neurodivergent affirming care.
The clinicians at Affirming Psychological Services are highly experienced in treating trauma, anxiety, and depression. All of our clinicians are also trained in treating the needs of the LGBT+ community, and many of our clinicians have lived experience as part of this community. We are conveniently located in Irvine, CA, and can provide both in person and telehealth services for you and your loved ones. We provide individual, couples, and family therapy as well as psychological testing and diagnostic clarification services. We provide a safe, comforting environment and expert therapists to help you meet your therapeutic goals.
Therapists at Affirming Psychological Services have various subspecialties, such as transgender care, trauma treatment, and neurodivergent affirming care.
The clinicians at Affirming Psychological Services are highly experienced in treating trauma, anxiety, and depression. All of our clinicians are also trained in treating the needs of the LGBT+ community, and many of our clinicians have lived experience as part of this community. We are conveniently located in Irvine, CA, and can provide both in person and telehealth services for you and your loved ones. We provide individual, couples, and family therapy as well as psychological testing and diagnostic clarification services. We provide a safe, comforting environment and expert therapists to help you meet your therapeutic goals.
I'm Laurie Fitzgerald, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I help people struggling with anxiety, depression, domestic abuse/violence, trauma, PTSD, LGBTQIA+ issues, and more. My work integrates relationship-based and cognitive-behavioral approaches. I strongly believe in the inherent ability of every individual to find their own answers to the big questions that bring people into therapy. I see my role as a therapist primarily as a facilitator and guide. During times of struggle or uncertainty, we often need someone who can ask questions and provide the space for inner answers to be found.
I'm Laurie Fitzgerald, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I help people struggling with anxiety, depression, domestic abuse/violence, trauma, PTSD, LGBTQIA+ issues, and more. My work integrates relationship-based and cognitive-behavioral approaches. I strongly believe in the inherent ability of every individual to find their own answers to the big questions that bring people into therapy. I see my role as a therapist primarily as a facilitator and guide. During times of struggle or uncertainty, we often need someone who can ask questions and provide the space for inner answers to be found.
I'm Ariel, a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of counseling experience. I have helped people struggling with depression, anxiety, mania, obsessions, low self-esteem, trauma, abuse, loss, grief, conflict, work-life balance, injustice, violence, inattention, hyperactivity, substance use, parent-child disputes, LGBTQIA issues, and more. I take an eclectic approach incorporating client-centered, family systems, dynamic, behavioral, mindfulness, and cognitive modalities. I entered this profession to help guide people through the complex systems in this world and am willing to work with any human who wants to heal.
I'm Ariel, a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of counseling experience. I have helped people struggling with depression, anxiety, mania, obsessions, low self-esteem, trauma, abuse, loss, grief, conflict, work-life balance, injustice, violence, inattention, hyperactivity, substance use, parent-child disputes, LGBTQIA issues, and more. I take an eclectic approach incorporating client-centered, family systems, dynamic, behavioral, mindfulness, and cognitive modalities. I entered this profession to help guide people through the complex systems in this world and am willing to work with any human who wants to heal.
Robert Donaldson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92704 (Online Only)
Each person’s journey into therapy is a unique act of courage. I am a California-licensed marriage and family therapist and saw my first therapy client in 2004. I work with individuals in various stages of life and career transitions, stressed college students, people dealing with LGBT, gender identity, and coming out issues, creative writers and artists, and successful professionals overwhelmed with a busy life. With the right practical psychological tools, it's possible to bring a sense of enjoyment back into the routines of daily life. It's not always easy, but it is possible.
Each person’s journey into therapy is a unique act of courage. I am a California-licensed marriage and family therapist and saw my first therapy client in 2004. I work with individuals in various stages of life and career transitions, stressed college students, people dealing with LGBT, gender identity, and coming out issues, creative writers and artists, and successful professionals overwhelmed with a busy life. With the right practical psychological tools, it's possible to bring a sense of enjoyment back into the routines of daily life. It's not always easy, but it is possible.
Yessenia Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92704 (Online Only)
Bienvenidxs! I am a Mexican-American, bilingual, queer therapist, dedicated to empowering individuals to embrace their authenticity and heal from within. I create a safe and inclusive space for my clients to explore their depths and discover their inner resilience. My approach blends holistic therapeutic techniques honoring the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. My tailored strategies, integrate your interests with evidence-based practices. I have completed certifications in EFT and ADHD. If you’re ready to be challenged, let's embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth.
Bienvenidxs! I am a Mexican-American, bilingual, queer therapist, dedicated to empowering individuals to embrace their authenticity and heal from within. I create a safe and inclusive space for my clients to explore their depths and discover their inner resilience. My approach blends holistic therapeutic techniques honoring the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. My tailored strategies, integrate your interests with evidence-based practices. I have completed certifications in EFT and ADHD. If you’re ready to be challenged, let's embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth.
Hi, I'm Ryan. I am a proud Mexican-American and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am passionate about providing affirmative therapy and a safe space for all of my clients. I enjoy working with people who want to work on improving their situations. I believe all people are unique and therapy is not a “one size fits all”. Because everyone brings in their own unique set of skills, based on their circumstances, I will meet you where you are.
Hi, I'm Ryan. I am a proud Mexican-American and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am passionate about providing affirmative therapy and a safe space for all of my clients. I enjoy working with people who want to work on improving their situations. I believe all people are unique and therapy is not a “one size fits all”. Because everyone brings in their own unique set of skills, based on their circumstances, I will meet you where you are.
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.
Hi! My name is Ella Bastone and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 5+ years of experience providing mental health support. I have found that my approach and experience work best with young adults looking for support with identity exploration, managing life stress, and looking for ways to support their wellness.
Hi! My name is Ella Bastone and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 5+ years of experience providing mental health support. I have found that my approach and experience work best with young adults looking for support with identity exploration, managing life stress, and looking for ways to support their wellness.
Managing the demands of our lives can often be challenging, leaving us feeling disconnected or discouraged. At times, you may find yourself feeling the need for added support to help navigate the challenges of work, family, relationships, the traumas of the past, and our expectations for ourselves. My hope is to provide a safe environment, where we can work together to find healing, achieve your goals, and experience connection with others in your life.
Managing the demands of our lives can often be challenging, leaving us feeling disconnected or discouraged. At times, you may find yourself feeling the need for added support to help navigate the challenges of work, family, relationships, the traumas of the past, and our expectations for ourselves. My hope is to provide a safe environment, where we can work together to find healing, achieve your goals, and experience connection with others in your life.
I believe in walking with individuals through their life experiences in a non-judgmental manner. I believe people are not a product of life circumstances; therefore, they do not need to live self-punishingly. I believe individuals have the ability to process past traumas and issues, resulting in a more fulfilling life. Gaining personal insight and personal growth is a strength that will manifest and multiply in relationships. Working with people is my passion; I believe your past does not define your future.
I believe in walking with individuals through their life experiences in a non-judgmental manner. I believe people are not a product of life circumstances; therefore, they do not need to live self-punishingly. I believe individuals have the ability to process past traumas and issues, resulting in a more fulfilling life. Gaining personal insight and personal growth is a strength that will manifest and multiply in relationships. Working with people is my passion; I believe your past does not define your future.
Dr. Megan L. Dennison
Psychological Associate, PsyD, ABSNP, LEP
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92704
I believe that we all have a unique brain narrative and the more you know about yourself, the more engaged you can be in creating a life that stays true to your authentic self. Gaining an understanding of your emotional, behavioral, and cognitive narrative can provide insights about your work/career development, learning, relationships, and beyond. Assessment allows you to understand your strengths and weaknesses and better understand how your brain processes information. Similarly, therapy is an experience that allows you to expand your knowledge base, skillset, and understanding of your world.
I believe that we all have a unique brain narrative and the more you know about yourself, the more engaged you can be in creating a life that stays true to your authentic self. Gaining an understanding of your emotional, behavioral, and cognitive narrative can provide insights about your work/career development, learning, relationships, and beyond. Assessment allows you to understand your strengths and weaknesses and better understand how your brain processes information. Similarly, therapy is an experience that allows you to expand your knowledge base, skillset, and understanding of your world.
Hi; My name is Laura Nelson (I go by Lori). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have 24 years of experience. I worked in schools as a School Social Worker for 12 years and have worked in the prison system for the last 11 years. My approach to therapy is based on building a relationship of trust, warmth, and acceptance. I have expertise in the areas of autism, anger management, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and various issues concerning children. I have experience treating adults with depression, anxiety, anger management issues, relationship problems, parenting issues, and stress and time management.
Hi; My name is Laura Nelson (I go by Lori). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have 24 years of experience. I worked in schools as a School Social Worker for 12 years and have worked in the prison system for the last 11 years. My approach to therapy is based on building a relationship of trust, warmth, and acceptance. I have expertise in the areas of autism, anger management, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and various issues concerning children. I have experience treating adults with depression, anxiety, anger management issues, relationship problems, parenting issues, and stress and time management.
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.
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I have been fortunate enough to help individuals from diverse cultural, sexual, religious, and ethnic backgrounds in their mental health recovery. My training has allowed me to develop a caring and collaborative approach to interventions and has exposed me to some of the most cutting-edge research-informed practices. I truly enjoy bringing the best of people back into their lives regardless of their age, identity, and cultural background.
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I have been fortunate enough to help individuals from diverse cultural, sexual, religious, and ethnic backgrounds in their mental health recovery. My training has allowed me to develop a caring and collaborative approach to interventions and has exposed me to some of the most cutting-edge research-informed practices. I truly enjoy bringing the best of people back into their lives regardless of their age, identity, and cultural background.
I have worked with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and those who self-medicate with alcohol or other substances. I prefer working with individuals over the age of 18. I also have extensive experience working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood swings, thought disturbances, substance use, and physical disabilities. Therapy is challenging, and yes, I will push my clients. But I am supportive and encouraging in my approach, and I will only push them because I believe in them, and that they have the capability of achieving their greatest good.
I have worked with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and those who self-medicate with alcohol or other substances. I prefer working with individuals over the age of 18. I also have extensive experience working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood swings, thought disturbances, substance use, and physical disabilities. Therapy is challenging, and yes, I will push my clients. But I am supportive and encouraging in my approach, and I will only push them because I believe in them, and that they have the capability of achieving their greatest good.
My name is Jacquie Josephson, PsyD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I work with individuals who struggle with symptoms that are related to depression, anxiety, and trauma which include things like self-esteem issues, grief, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and substance abuse. I provide psychotherapy with a client-centered approach, meaning that my work is a collaborative process where my client's expressed goals are the guide for their treatment. I utilize a few approaches including psychodynamic, relational, EMDR, internal family systems, somatic, and mindfulness modalities.
My name is Jacquie Josephson, PsyD, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I work with individuals who struggle with symptoms that are related to depression, anxiety, and trauma which include things like self-esteem issues, grief, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and substance abuse. I provide psychotherapy with a client-centered approach, meaning that my work is a collaborative process where my client's expressed goals are the guide for their treatment. I utilize a few approaches including psychodynamic, relational, EMDR, internal family systems, somatic, and mindfulness modalities.
Hi, my name is Patricia Gomez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and have been practicing in the field of mental health since 2001. I understand that therapy is about you and what you need, so I often refer to clients as the driver and myself as the passenger, sitting alongside my clients through their own personal journey! My role is to facilitate discussion and prompt new ways of thinking in order to inspire fresh perspectives.
Hi, my name is Patricia Gomez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and have been practicing in the field of mental health since 2001. I understand that therapy is about you and what you need, so I often refer to clients as the driver and myself as the passenger, sitting alongside my clients through their own personal journey! My role is to facilitate discussion and prompt new ways of thinking in order to inspire fresh perspectives.
Hi there, I'm Cathy! I am deeply committed to providing therapy that is centered on a true knowing of you and what you want from your life. I have been a licensed clinical social worker for many years, and I believe that the relationship between the therapist and the client is the key to successful therapy. I will actively listen to you and get to know you, and we will venture together into this path of self-discovery. In my own life, I am constantly engaged in learning about myself and others and what makes us who we are.
Hi there, I'm Cathy! I am deeply committed to providing therapy that is centered on a true knowing of you and what you want from your life. I have been a licensed clinical social worker for many years, and I believe that the relationship between the therapist and the client is the key to successful therapy. I will actively listen to you and get to know you, and we will venture together into this path of self-discovery. In my own life, I am constantly engaged in learning about myself and others and what makes us who we are.
Natalie Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92704
Not accepting new clients
I am extremely passionate about working with those in the LGBTQ+ Community and women of color.
Discovering yourself can be a frightening journey for many individuals, but it is not a journey that you have to complete alone. For those looking to build their inner strength, increase their feelings of empowerment, implement boundaries and assert themselves in their life and relationships look no further. I realize that beginning therapy can be frightening especially for those who are the first in their family to do so. My approach as a therapist is to provide you with a safe and compassionate environment for you to explore and uncover. Together we can devise an action plan to assist you in becoming the person you wish to be.
I am extremely passionate about working with those in the LGBTQ+ Community and women of color.
Discovering yourself can be a frightening journey for many individuals, but it is not a journey that you have to complete alone. For those looking to build their inner strength, increase their feelings of empowerment, implement boundaries and assert themselves in their life and relationships look no further. I realize that beginning therapy can be frightening especially for those who are the first in their family to do so. My approach as a therapist is to provide you with a safe and compassionate environment for you to explore and uncover. Together we can devise an action plan to assist you in becoming the person you wish to be.
Chris 'alder' Johnson
Psychological Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92704 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Alder prides themself on working to affirm members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Alder has worked in the field of psychology since 2018, when they began providing mental health services to children and youth diagnosed with autism. Alder received their master’s degree in Psychology from Purdue University Global and has extensive experience working with neurodivergent clients. Alder is working to obtain their Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Chris is supervised by Dr. Bahareh Talei (PSY 21252). Alder believes in living life as their most authentic self and brings this authenticity into the therapeutic experience.
Alder prides themself on working to affirm members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Alder has worked in the field of psychology since 2018, when they began providing mental health services to children and youth diagnosed with autism. Alder received their master’s degree in Psychology from Purdue University Global and has extensive experience working with neurodivergent clients. Alder is working to obtain their Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Chris is supervised by Dr. Bahareh Talei (PSY 21252). Alder believes in living life as their most authentic self and brings this authenticity into the therapeutic experience.
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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.