Photo of Shelley E Simmons, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelley E Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703
I especially welcome those in the LGBTQIA+ community--and those who are questioning their sexuality or gender.
My style is client-centered, authentic and strengths-based. I will be a catalyst for helping you to see and understand yourself, so that you can live your life at your highest potential. Through active listening, empathy, and validation of experience, we will uncover the courage and skills you have within you in order to achieve positive, lasting change.
I especially welcome those in the LGBTQIA+ community--and those who are questioning their sexuality or gender.
My style is client-centered, authentic and strengths-based. I will be a catalyst for helping you to see and understand yourself, so that you can live your life at your highest potential. Through active listening, empathy, and validation of experience, we will uncover the courage and skills you have within you in order to achieve positive, lasting change.
(479) 364-6375 View (479) 364-6375
Photo of Jordan Chase Williams, PhD, Psychologist
Jordan Chase Williams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72207
As a psychologist, I work with people with real-life concerns like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues, and trauma. Within these areas, I have a particular focus on helping women, people of color, and LGBTQ populations. With over eight years of experience, I work on developing insight, improving self-esteem, and building resiliency practices that you can implement into your daily life.
As a psychologist, I work with people with real-life concerns like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues, and trauma. Within these areas, I have a particular focus on helping women, people of color, and LGBTQ populations. With over eight years of experience, I work on developing insight, improving self-esteem, and building resiliency practices that you can implement into your daily life.
(501) 295-0146 View (501) 295-0146
Photo of Rechele Mays, LCSW , C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rechele Mays
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , C-DBT
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72207  (Online Only)
My specialties include LGBTQ+ issues, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, food issues, ADHD, gender issues, relationships, & life transitions.
Therapy offers a chance to learn new ways to cope with emotionally charged life challenges & process the things in life that keep us stuck. In our sessions, I'll help you identify & challenge self-defeating patterns that leave you stuck, unsatisfied, & less than your best. We'll develop a plan based on your needs & what you want out of therapy. I offer a safe & supportive, nonjudgemental space for you to reflect, process, & grow. My approach is strength based, interactive, & collaborative, & I believe that authenticity, respect, & a sense of humor all contribute to a strong therapeutic relationship.
My specialties include LGBTQ+ issues, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, food issues, ADHD, gender issues, relationships, & life transitions.
Therapy offers a chance to learn new ways to cope with emotionally charged life challenges & process the things in life that keep us stuck. In our sessions, I'll help you identify & challenge self-defeating patterns that leave you stuck, unsatisfied, & less than your best. We'll develop a plan based on your needs & what you want out of therapy. I offer a safe & supportive, nonjudgemental space for you to reflect, process, & grow. My approach is strength based, interactive, & collaborative, & I believe that authenticity, respect, & a sense of humor all contribute to a strong therapeutic relationship.
(501) 557-0808 View (501) 557-0808
Photo of Collin Davies - Central Arkansas Testing & Therapy Center, MA, LPE-I, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Central Arkansas Testing & Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPE-I, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034
In the therapy room, I enjoy particularly working with the LGBTQ+ community and members of other marginalized groups.
Hi! Thanks for stopping by! I am a licensed psychological examiner (LPE-I) and a professional counselor (LPC). I am happy to share that I have recently founded Central Arkansas Testing & Therapy Center. You could consider me local to the central Arkansas area. I enjoy working with the community where I pretty much grew up. After graduating from UCA in 2009, I completed a master of arts degree in clinical psychology from Forest Institute in 2012. Over the last 10 years, I have worked with those experiencing depression, grief/loss, life adjustments, and LGBTQ specific issues.
In the therapy room, I enjoy particularly working with the LGBTQ+ community and members of other marginalized groups.
Hi! Thanks for stopping by! I am a licensed psychological examiner (LPE-I) and a professional counselor (LPC). I am happy to share that I have recently founded Central Arkansas Testing & Therapy Center. You could consider me local to the central Arkansas area. I enjoy working with the community where I pretty much grew up. After graduating from UCA in 2009, I completed a master of arts degree in clinical psychology from Forest Institute in 2012. Over the last 10 years, I have worked with those experiencing depression, grief/loss, life adjustments, and LGBTQ specific issues.
(501) 322-6046 View (501) 322-6046
Photo of Ada Floyd, LPC-S, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ada Floyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72903
I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD; however, my primary areas of focus are working within the LGBTQIA+ community and with trauma. I have completed training in several modalities to increase my ability to help people navigate through their struggles. I know the value of therapy for trauma due to my own experiences and try to bring compassion and empathy into every session. I use a variety of techniques and tools, such as EMDR, ego state therapy, and CBT to help tailor therapy to each individual client.
I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD; however, my primary areas of focus are working within the LGBTQIA+ community and with trauma. I have completed training in several modalities to increase my ability to help people navigate through their struggles. I know the value of therapy for trauma due to my own experiences and try to bring compassion and empathy into every session. I use a variety of techniques and tools, such as EMDR, ego state therapy, and CBT to help tailor therapy to each individual client.
(479) 323-3152 View (479) 323-3152
Photo of Kevin Spurgers, MS, LPC, NCC, TA, Counselor
Kevin Spurgers
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, TA
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72034
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on working with individuals struggling with difficult transitions, family conflict, and LGBT+ issues.
Are you struggling with an unexpected life event or difficult transition? Is that preventing you from reaching your own goals? I can help. Counseling is not an easy path, but neither is staying stuck in distress or unhealthy patterns. I’m a licensed mental health therapist with plenty of experience working with individuals, families, and couples that have grappled with hard transitions. I work with my clients to provide a safe, comfortable environment for them to explore their options authentically. I help clients expand their strengths into other dimensions of life while working towards client identified goals and objectives.
I focus on working with individuals struggling with difficult transitions, family conflict, and LGBT+ issues.
Are you struggling with an unexpected life event or difficult transition? Is that preventing you from reaching your own goals? I can help. Counseling is not an easy path, but neither is staying stuck in distress or unhealthy patterns. I’m a licensed mental health therapist with plenty of experience working with individuals, families, and couples that have grappled with hard transitions. I work with my clients to provide a safe, comfortable environment for them to explore their options authentically. I help clients expand their strengths into other dimensions of life while working towards client identified goals and objectives.
(501) 200-4895 View (501) 200-4895
Photo of Kim Winbery, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Winbery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72701
I work with various issues to include but not limited to Gender Identity, Relationship issues, Depression/Mood Disorders, Family, Friends, LGBTQIA+, and ADHD in adults.
I have over 24 years of counseling experience. Good therapy is non-judging, non-shaming, and involves healthy personal growth with enhanced life quality. In addition to working at agencies/facilities I have also had private practices in Texas, Georgia, and Nevada. Although I have traveled a lot in the past, my forever home and practice will remain in Fayetteville. I am a bi/pan cis woman and pronouns are she/her/hers. I enjoy working with law students and lawyers with the JLAP program and love working with other clinicians.
I work with various issues to include but not limited to Gender Identity, Relationship issues, Depression/Mood Disorders, Family, Friends, LGBTQIA+, and ADHD in adults.
I have over 24 years of counseling experience. Good therapy is non-judging, non-shaming, and involves healthy personal growth with enhanced life quality. In addition to working at agencies/facilities I have also had private practices in Texas, Georgia, and Nevada. Although I have traveled a lot in the past, my forever home and practice will remain in Fayetteville. I am a bi/pan cis woman and pronouns are she/her/hers. I enjoy working with law students and lawyers with the JLAP program and love working with other clinicians.
(479) 431-2159 View (479) 431-2159
Photo of Carter Shields, MS, LAC, Counselor
Carter Shields
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a queer-affirming counselor.
I love people - it's why I'm a counselor. My ideal client is someone who is looking to make positive changes in their life. We all get stuck in cycles of self-doubt and often find ourselves in circumstances we didn't want. Mental health struggles can make life changes feel impossible, but nothing is set in stone. Counseling is a collaborative relationship first and foremost - let's work together to help you achieve your goals!
I am a queer-affirming counselor.
I love people - it's why I'm a counselor. My ideal client is someone who is looking to make positive changes in their life. We all get stuck in cycles of self-doubt and often find ourselves in circumstances we didn't want. Mental health struggles can make life changes feel impossible, but nothing is set in stone. Counseling is a collaborative relationship first and foremost - let's work together to help you achieve your goals!
(501) 669-3627 View (501) 669-3627
Photo of Jason LeCompte, MAMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason LeCompte
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a proud founding member of the Bentonville Counseling Collective, a one-of-a-kind counseling practice in NWA. We are individual counselors working together to provide excellent, affordable, and tailored therapy for a vast array of clients. For the past several years we have worked with individuals, couples, and families on many different issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, trauma, grief, LGBTQ issues, and many others. Whatever the challenge, the Bentonville Counseling Collective can help you overcome it, and help you be happier and more fulfilled in your life.
I'm a proud founding member of the Bentonville Counseling Collective, a one-of-a-kind counseling practice in NWA. We are individual counselors working together to provide excellent, affordable, and tailored therapy for a vast array of clients. For the past several years we have worked with individuals, couples, and families on many different issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, trauma, grief, LGBTQ issues, and many others. Whatever the challenge, the Bentonville Counseling Collective can help you overcome it, and help you be happier and more fulfilled in your life.
(479) 431-2362 View (479) 431-2362
Photo of Angie Young, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72701  (Online Only)
I am passionate about providing an affirming therapeutic environment to the LGBTQ+ community and helping its members learn to navigate the challenges that we face living in a more rural state.
It’s common to forget our own strengths and values in the hustle and bustle of living. This can set us up for depression, anxiety, and other complications. Therapy can help you to rediscover your inherent strengths and resilience. My approach allows people to make changes happen in their lives by giving them hope and helping them learn to confront irrational thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes. My wish for you is that at the end of each session you feel less isolated and more like the person you were meant to be.
I am passionate about providing an affirming therapeutic environment to the LGBTQ+ community and helping its members learn to navigate the challenges that we face living in a more rural state.
It’s common to forget our own strengths and values in the hustle and bustle of living. This can set us up for depression, anxiety, and other complications. Therapy can help you to rediscover your inherent strengths and resilience. My approach allows people to make changes happen in their lives by giving them hope and helping them learn to confront irrational thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes. My wish for you is that at the end of each session you feel less isolated and more like the person you were meant to be.
(501) 602-7438 View (501) 602-7438
Photo of Mariah Brown, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mariah Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72201
Mental Health is Real. I believe in the importance of creating a safe space that empower clients to cultivate a new normal. Choosing the right therapist can be difficult, yet it makes a big difference in treatment. For 5 years, I have been a counseling in mental health field treating a variety of issues. In my practice, I believe every person is unique despite their sexuality, race, gender, or economic background. I am a holistic, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist who uses an integrative approach to help my clients achieve long-term success.
Mental Health is Real. I believe in the importance of creating a safe space that empower clients to cultivate a new normal. Choosing the right therapist can be difficult, yet it makes a big difference in treatment. For 5 years, I have been a counseling in mental health field treating a variety of issues. In my practice, I believe every person is unique despite their sexuality, race, gender, or economic background. I am a holistic, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist who uses an integrative approach to help my clients achieve long-term success.
(501) 300-9713 View (501) 300-9713
Photo of Lexi Madle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lexi Madle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72703
I am committed to building therapeutic relationships where individuals feel seen, heard, accepted and supported. I consider myself to be an affirming therapist with an open and relaxed style that my clients tell me helps to feel at ease right away. I believe therapy is an invaluable space where you can begin to explore all the parts of yourself and begin to heal and flourish. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ Community, I have found a deep passion and empowerment in working with those alike. I specialize in treating teens and adults with anxiety, grief, mood disorders, self harming behaviors and trauma.
I am committed to building therapeutic relationships where individuals feel seen, heard, accepted and supported. I consider myself to be an affirming therapist with an open and relaxed style that my clients tell me helps to feel at ease right away. I believe therapy is an invaluable space where you can begin to explore all the parts of yourself and begin to heal and flourish. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ Community, I have found a deep passion and empowerment in working with those alike. I specialize in treating teens and adults with anxiety, grief, mood disorders, self harming behaviors and trauma.
(479) 348-4461 View (479) 348-4461
Photo of Shakira Michelle Eakins, LCSW, RYT, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shakira Michelle Eakins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pea Ridge, AR 72751  (Online Only)
I work with all cultures, and my primary areas of focus include Black, Indigenous, and People of Color and LGBTQIA+ individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, childhood emotional wounds, and other challenges that affect their ability to feel safe and connected.
I work closely with clients to help them connect deeply with themselves and their community. I see clients 18+ virtually who are residents of Arkansas and Oklahoma. My mission is to develop healthy therapeutic relationships and build community through individual counseling and community yoga. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Yoga Teacher, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with 13+ years' experience providing therapy, advocating for the oppressed, and collaborating with community partners. I also provide workshops for other professionals in many different settings.
I work with all cultures, and my primary areas of focus include Black, Indigenous, and People of Color and LGBTQIA+ individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, childhood emotional wounds, and other challenges that affect their ability to feel safe and connected.
I work closely with clients to help them connect deeply with themselves and their community. I see clients 18+ virtually who are residents of Arkansas and Oklahoma. My mission is to develop healthy therapeutic relationships and build community through individual counseling and community yoga. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Yoga Teacher, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with 13+ years' experience providing therapy, advocating for the oppressed, and collaborating with community partners. I also provide workshops for other professionals in many different settings.
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Photo of Kirsten Laura Sowell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kirsten Laura Sowell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kirsten works with people who want to learn how to cope more effectively with stress, sadness, grief and loss, and anxiety. Kirsten loves to travel alongside LGBTQ folks as they find ways to reach their hopes and dreams for the future. Kirsten feels most effective working with people ages 9 and up. She especially enjoys helping teenagers and their families, and she also enjoys working with adults. Kirsten has been instrumental in developing and growing two pediatric gender clinics in Arkansas over the past 4 years to provide comprehensive care to transgender and non-binary youth and their families in our state.
Kirsten works with people who want to learn how to cope more effectively with stress, sadness, grief and loss, and anxiety. Kirsten loves to travel alongside LGBTQ folks as they find ways to reach their hopes and dreams for the future. Kirsten feels most effective working with people ages 9 and up. She especially enjoys helping teenagers and their families, and she also enjoys working with adults. Kirsten has been instrumental in developing and growing two pediatric gender clinics in Arkansas over the past 4 years to provide comprehensive care to transgender and non-binary youth and their families in our state.
(501) 474-6484 x6 View (501) 474-6484 x6
Photo of Shalae Hesselbein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shalae Hesselbein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211
I have extensive training and experience working with children, adolescents and adults. My background has allowed me to work with a diverse range of needs, but traumatic stress is my primary focus. When working with children, I implement a child-centered and family-focused approach to help the child heal but also to support caregivers and to help the family grow closer together through the healing process. I also enjoy working with couples who want to learn together and grow closer. I am affirmative of LGBTQ and cultural minority clients. I fully embrace the opportunity to contribute towards societal change that is long overdue.
I have extensive training and experience working with children, adolescents and adults. My background has allowed me to work with a diverse range of needs, but traumatic stress is my primary focus. When working with children, I implement a child-centered and family-focused approach to help the child heal but also to support caregivers and to help the family grow closer together through the healing process. I also enjoy working with couples who want to learn together and grow closer. I am affirmative of LGBTQ and cultural minority clients. I fully embrace the opportunity to contribute towards societal change that is long overdue.
(501) 551-5065 View (501) 551-5065
Photo of Jade Stubbs, LAC, Counselor
Jade Stubbs
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Springdale, AR 72762
My areas of specialty are depression, anxiety, issues specific to those in LGBTQIA+ community, and multicultural related issues.
Hello, my name is Jade Stubbs and I am a Licensed Associate Counselor here in Northwest Arkansas. I am excited to help you along this counseling journey by providing you with a safe space where you can feel comfortable enough to truly grow. I am primarily a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who uses expressive art techniques on an as needed basis. You will also have the opportunity to participate in sessions with my therapy dog-in training, Jill-Pup. I aim to create an environment welcoming to clients of all genders, races, cultures & sexualities.
My areas of specialty are depression, anxiety, issues specific to those in LGBTQIA+ community, and multicultural related issues.
Hello, my name is Jade Stubbs and I am a Licensed Associate Counselor here in Northwest Arkansas. I am excited to help you along this counseling journey by providing you with a safe space where you can feel comfortable enough to truly grow. I am primarily a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who uses expressive art techniques on an as needed basis. You will also have the opportunity to participate in sessions with my therapy dog-in training, Jill-Pup. I aim to create an environment welcoming to clients of all genders, races, cultures & sexualities.
(479) 336-0213 x2 View (479) 336-0213 x2
Photo of Heather Vinti, LPC, Counselor
Heather Vinti
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72703
I am comfortable working with erotically marginalized populations and am dedicated to being LGBTQIA+, Poly/CNM, and Kink friendly and affirming.
Hello and welcome! I'm Heather Vinti, licensed therapist with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and PhD in Public Health. In addition to my years of research in sexual health, I have received advanced training specifically in Sexual Health and Sex Therapy, as well as Gottman Method Couples Therapy. All of this put together allows me to take a systemic view and connection-based approach to working with clients. I provide a non-judgmental, accepting, validating space for clients to be themselves and explore the ways in which they want to grow and heal.
I am comfortable working with erotically marginalized populations and am dedicated to being LGBTQIA+, Poly/CNM, and Kink friendly and affirming.
Hello and welcome! I'm Heather Vinti, licensed therapist with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and PhD in Public Health. In addition to my years of research in sexual health, I have received advanced training specifically in Sexual Health and Sex Therapy, as well as Gottman Method Couples Therapy. All of this put together allows me to take a systemic view and connection-based approach to working with clients. I provide a non-judgmental, accepting, validating space for clients to be themselves and explore the ways in which they want to grow and heal.
(479) 323-3983 View (479) 323-3983
Photo of Lydia Carrington, LAC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lydia Carrington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LAC, MS
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Waitlist for new clients
LGBTQIA+/poly affirming and celebratory.
Facing mental health challenges alone can be daunting. I'm honored to partner with you on your healing journey. We all struggle, and vulnerability is part of being human. I aim to provide a safe, judgment-free space where you can be your authentic self and grow. I'm here to support you as you navigate challenges and work towards a more authentic life.
LGBTQIA+/poly affirming and celebratory.
Facing mental health challenges alone can be daunting. I'm honored to partner with you on your healing journey. We all struggle, and vulnerability is part of being human. I aim to provide a safe, judgment-free space where you can be your authentic self and grow. I'm here to support you as you navigate challenges and work towards a more authentic life.
(479) 239-8765 View (479) 239-8765
Photo of Catherine Lathrop, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Lathrop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72204
Catherine has been serving in her community in mental health for 5 plus years. She has experience with all ages from 5yrs old to 85yrs. As well as experience with a wide variety of issues from PTSD, Grief, chronic illness, Neurodivergence, and LGBTQ+. She is excited to help people realize their mental health goals and be able to confidently move forward in life's journey.
Catherine has been serving in her community in mental health for 5 plus years. She has experience with all ages from 5yrs old to 85yrs. As well as experience with a wide variety of issues from PTSD, Grief, chronic illness, Neurodivergence, and LGBTQ+. She is excited to help people realize their mental health goals and be able to confidently move forward in life's journey.
(417) 373-3557 View (417) 373-3557
Photo of Bradley Charbonneau, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bradley Charbonneau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherwood, AR 72120  (Online Only)
I am committed to supporting everyone, including those who identify as LGBTQIA+ or feel different from others, and my practice is inclusive and welcoming to all.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Do you find your heart racing, your chest tightening, or your thoughts spiraling out of control? Anxiety can be incredibly isolating, making it difficult to connect with others or feel safe in social settings. But you don’t have to navigate these feelings alone. I specialize in helping people overcome anxiety from the comfort of their own homes through virtual therapy. With my non-judgmental and compassionate approach, I create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your feelings without fear.
I am committed to supporting everyone, including those who identify as LGBTQIA+ or feel different from others, and my practice is inclusive and welcoming to all.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Do you find your heart racing, your chest tightening, or your thoughts spiraling out of control? Anxiety can be incredibly isolating, making it difficult to connect with others or feel safe in social settings. But you don’t have to navigate these feelings alone. I specialize in helping people overcome anxiety from the comfort of their own homes through virtual therapy. With my non-judgmental and compassionate approach, I create a safe, supportive space where you can explore your feelings without fear.
(501) 273-3182 View (501) 273-3182
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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.