LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

Photo of Sam Barrons, MA, MS, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sam Barrons
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032  (Online Only)
Are you seeking a therapist who understands and celebrates your unique identity, relationship, and experiences? As an LGBTAI+ provider, I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to explore their unique challenges and work toward healing and growth. My practice focuses on serving the LGBTQ+, kinky, polyamorous/CNM, and trauma survivor communities, and I am dedicated to fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding. With a passion for helping others navigate life's complexities, I offer personalized guidance and support tailored to your needs.
Are you seeking a therapist who understands and celebrates your unique identity, relationship, and experiences? As an LGBTAI+ provider, I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to explore their unique challenges and work toward healing and growth. My practice focuses on serving the LGBTQ+, kinky, polyamorous/CNM, and trauma survivor communities, and I am dedicated to fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding. With a passion for helping others navigate life's complexities, I offer personalized guidance and support tailored to your needs.
(602) 560-4351 View (602) 560-4351
Photo of Sammy Skinner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sammy Skinner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I’m Sammy and I'm an openly queer therapist who is passionate about supporting the LGBTQ+ community. I offer virtual therapy services for individuals ages 18 and older. My primary passion and area of advanced training as a therapist is LGBTQ+ care, including a variety of related topics such as identity clarification, gender dysphoria, minority stress, intersectionality, coming out, navigating relationships, processing trauma, reducing shame, and fostering self-love. I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) but I am trained in a variety of other modalities which I can use to adapt to each client’s individual needs.
Hi! I’m Sammy and I'm an openly queer therapist who is passionate about supporting the LGBTQ+ community. I offer virtual therapy services for individuals ages 18 and older. My primary passion and area of advanced training as a therapist is LGBTQ+ care, including a variety of related topics such as identity clarification, gender dysphoria, minority stress, intersectionality, coming out, navigating relationships, processing trauma, reducing shame, and fostering self-love. I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) but I am trained in a variety of other modalities which I can use to adapt to each client’s individual needs.
(602) 641-3412 View (602) 641-3412
Photo of Kendahl L Florio, MSW, LCSW, BHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kendahl L Florio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85013  (Online Only)
It is pure joy working with queer, autistic/ADHD, pagan folks: bonus if you have some religious trauma to work through, you're a gamer, and you love the moon. I also have good news: therapy doesn't have to be painful! Post-traumatic growth is real. I offer hope to trauma survivors, and those looking to heal deep wounds. I revere complexity, and use mindful self-compassion to help you find your spark of aliveness. I can help you root out self-shaming, and find love for yourself. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Everyone. Yes, even you. You deserve that, too.
It is pure joy working with queer, autistic/ADHD, pagan folks: bonus if you have some religious trauma to work through, you're a gamer, and you love the moon. I also have good news: therapy doesn't have to be painful! Post-traumatic growth is real. I offer hope to trauma survivors, and those looking to heal deep wounds. I revere complexity, and use mindful self-compassion to help you find your spark of aliveness. I can help you root out self-shaming, and find love for yourself. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Everyone. Yes, even you. You deserve that, too.
(480) 571-3841 View (480) 571-3841
Photo of Marissa Widener, MC, LAC, Counselor
Marissa Widener
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003
If you are seeking support for, but not limited to, stressors related to anxiety, depression, gender/sexual identity, LGBTQ+ concerns, family/relationship concerns, trauma, or life changes, there is space here for you! Marissa is committed to client success and maintaining a warm environment both in-person and online. As a compassionate and attentive Licensed Associate Counselor, Marissa creates a safe and supportive environment to allow clients to reach their fullest potential.
If you are seeking support for, but not limited to, stressors related to anxiety, depression, gender/sexual identity, LGBTQ+ concerns, family/relationship concerns, trauma, or life changes, there is space here for you! Marissa is committed to client success and maintaining a warm environment both in-person and online. As a compassionate and attentive Licensed Associate Counselor, Marissa creates a safe and supportive environment to allow clients to reach their fullest potential.
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Photo of Diane Genco - AZ Center for Change, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
AZ Center for Change
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85013
Hello and welcome to our practice. We provide a variety of specialty counseling services including Sexual Abuse Recovery, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, LGBTQ services, Anger Management and EMDR. Some, not all of our therapists on staff, take insurance so when you contact us, we will do a short phone screening to assess your needs and financial resources We strive to provide quality counseling while maintaining affordable fees. We have a team of therapists on staff to assist you with your needs.
Hello and welcome to our practice. We provide a variety of specialty counseling services including Sexual Abuse Recovery, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, LGBTQ services, Anger Management and EMDR. Some, not all of our therapists on staff, take insurance so when you contact us, we will do a short phone screening to assess your needs and financial resources We strive to provide quality counseling while maintaining affordable fees. We have a team of therapists on staff to assist you with your needs.
(480) 409-2260 View (480) 409-2260
Photo of Allison Westmoore, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Westmoore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85003  (Online Only)
Welcome! I specialize in family/relationship dynamics, LGBTQIA+ experiences, substance abuse disorders, everyday life transitions, and varying mental health concerns such as OCD, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Not only do I pull from my clinical training in these topics, but also from my lived experiences and how they have affected not only me, but my relationships and family. These include being queer, a parent, a transplant from the midwest, and experiencing childhood trauma. I use my clinical expertise and lived experiences to create judgment free and individualized mental health care, which is at the core of how I practice.
Welcome! I specialize in family/relationship dynamics, LGBTQIA+ experiences, substance abuse disorders, everyday life transitions, and varying mental health concerns such as OCD, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Not only do I pull from my clinical training in these topics, but also from my lived experiences and how they have affected not only me, but my relationships and family. These include being queer, a parent, a transplant from the midwest, and experiencing childhood trauma. I use my clinical expertise and lived experiences to create judgment free and individualized mental health care, which is at the core of how I practice.
(602) 875-0658 View (602) 875-0658
Photo of Alena Garcia, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alena Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Are you seeking relief from anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, relationship issues, and change of life events? Some need new skills to deal with these issues and feel better about themselves and their ability to handle life. I wish to help deal with past traumas, learn coping skills to deal with anxiety and depression, learn skills to interact more effectively with others.
I identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Are you seeking relief from anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, relationship issues, and change of life events? Some need new skills to deal with these issues and feel better about themselves and their ability to handle life. I wish to help deal with past traumas, learn coping skills to deal with anxiety and depression, learn skills to interact more effectively with others.
(623) 235-8665 View (623) 235-8665
Photo of Adelaide Pote, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Adelaide Pote
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Hello, I'm Adelaide! I am a neurodivergent queer woman and I like to focus on the stories that we tell about ourselves and our relationships as well as the stories other people and institutions tell about us. Therapy with me looks like untangling the messy web of societal expectations that the world pushes on you, empowering you to be the author of your own story, and taking back control of your life and your identity in light of what makes you uniquely you. With couples, I also use emotionally focused therapy (EFT) techniques to create healing interactions between you and your partner right there in session.
Hello, I'm Adelaide! I am a neurodivergent queer woman and I like to focus on the stories that we tell about ourselves and our relationships as well as the stories other people and institutions tell about us. Therapy with me looks like untangling the messy web of societal expectations that the world pushes on you, empowering you to be the author of your own story, and taking back control of your life and your identity in light of what makes you uniquely you. With couples, I also use emotionally focused therapy (EFT) techniques to create healing interactions between you and your partner right there in session.
(602) 313-1423 View (602) 313-1423
Photo of Alison Williams, MC, LAC, Counselor
Alison Williams
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032
In Person & Virtual Intakes Available! Alison is a licensed associate counselor who utilizes a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to therapy as a way to gain a better understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Alison is passionate about working with those identifying with the LGBTQIA+ community, individuals working through life transitions (i.e., starting a new chapter of life, entering into adulthood, changing family dynamics, starting college), and those looking to begin processing generational trauma in a safe space as well as navigating symptoms of anxiety and depression.
In Person & Virtual Intakes Available! Alison is a licensed associate counselor who utilizes a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to therapy as a way to gain a better understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Alison is passionate about working with those identifying with the LGBTQIA+ community, individuals working through life transitions (i.e., starting a new chapter of life, entering into adulthood, changing family dynamics, starting college), and those looking to begin processing generational trauma in a safe space as well as navigating symptoms of anxiety and depression.
(602) 932-7170 View (602) 932-7170
Photo of Morgan Musick, MS, LAC, Counselor
Morgan Musick
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Morgan (She/They), I hold a Master's of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I strive to empower clients to progress towards their goals, and am passionate about providing client-centered care tailored to the needs of the individual while cultivating a safe therapeutic environment. While I love serving a wide variety of populations. As a queer individual, I am very passionate about serving the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing LGBTQIA+ issues in therapy and advocating for trans and queer rights, and gender affirming care.
Welcome! My name is Morgan (She/They), I hold a Master's of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I strive to empower clients to progress towards their goals, and am passionate about providing client-centered care tailored to the needs of the individual while cultivating a safe therapeutic environment. While I love serving a wide variety of populations. As a queer individual, I am very passionate about serving the LGBTQIA+ community, addressing LGBTQIA+ issues in therapy and advocating for trans and queer rights, and gender affirming care.
(602) 962-7539 View (602) 962-7539
Photo of Logan Denny, LAC, Counselor
Logan Denny
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Hey! I am Logan (they/them)- I am a queer, nonbinary, neurodivergent LAC/sex therapist with an education background in trauma-informed sex therapy. I am committed to creating a collaborative space where folx can seek wellness, pleasure, and liberation. I believe in supporting and empowering people in navigating the exploration of gender, sexuality, kink, non-monogamous relationships, intimate relationships, shame free sex, religious trauma and any other situations life has to offer.
Hey! I am Logan (they/them)- I am a queer, nonbinary, neurodivergent LAC/sex therapist with an education background in trauma-informed sex therapy. I am committed to creating a collaborative space where folx can seek wellness, pleasure, and liberation. I believe in supporting and empowering people in navigating the exploration of gender, sexuality, kink, non-monogamous relationships, intimate relationships, shame free sex, religious trauma and any other situations life has to offer.
(623) 210-6199 View (623) 210-6199
Photo of Robia Fields, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robia Fields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85029  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My experiences are in the following area: anxiety, depression, LGBTQ issues, sibling rivalries, and family dynamics.
I am a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT and Expressive Arts. I’ve worked with several agencies, servicing adolescents, young/middle-aged adults, and geriatrics. Primarily I offer individual, family, and group treatment to those who suffer from previous or present mental illness, substance use disorders, and/or comorbid disorders. Such services have aid to improve stability in daily living, improve family relationships, restore homeostasis, increase the possibility of abstinence, improve the ability to cope with crisis situations, all while providing clinical guidance
My experiences are in the following area: anxiety, depression, LGBTQ issues, sibling rivalries, and family dynamics.
I am a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT and Expressive Arts. I’ve worked with several agencies, servicing adolescents, young/middle-aged adults, and geriatrics. Primarily I offer individual, family, and group treatment to those who suffer from previous or present mental illness, substance use disorders, and/or comorbid disorders. Such services have aid to improve stability in daily living, improve family relationships, restore homeostasis, increase the possibility of abstinence, improve the ability to cope with crisis situations, all while providing clinical guidance
(623) 257-8257 View (623) 257-8257
Photo of Staci Rubin-Shepherd, MC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Staci Rubin-Shepherd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85050  (Online Only)
My passion is for working with the LGBTQIA+ community with a multicultural and trauma-informed lens.
It’s hard (and okay!) to admit that you are going through a tough time. Whether you are challenged by depression or anxiety, getting stuck in patterns that feel impossible to change, battling trauma and the weight it can hold on your shoulders, or needing to understand, explore, and process your gender or sexuality journey, I am here for you. Everyone needs a safe and comfortable environment to reflect on and work through life’s challenges. And that’s where I come in. I believe in the curative and healing powers of vulnerability.
My passion is for working with the LGBTQIA+ community with a multicultural and trauma-informed lens.
It’s hard (and okay!) to admit that you are going through a tough time. Whether you are challenged by depression or anxiety, getting stuck in patterns that feel impossible to change, battling trauma and the weight it can hold on your shoulders, or needing to understand, explore, and process your gender or sexuality journey, I am here for you. Everyone needs a safe and comfortable environment to reflect on and work through life’s challenges. And that’s where I come in. I believe in the curative and healing powers of vulnerability.
(623) 257-7202 View (623) 257-7202
Photo of Rustin Foster - Rustin Foster, LMSW at Affirming You Therapy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rustin Foster, LMSW at Affirming You Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Society’s rigid rules produce trauma not only when we experience disaster, but also when denied the opportunity to develop our identities. Whether LGBTQ+, neurodiverse, racial minority, or living with trauma or disease, we stumble through the world, learning to anticipate constant challenge and new ways to be hurt. When others speak of fond memories, we recall the effort we put into masking through it. When memories are too painful, we try to forget them – but they stay with us, hiding below our conscious mind where they wreak havoc on our bodies, creating chronic pain, addiction, mental illness and disease.
Society’s rigid rules produce trauma not only when we experience disaster, but also when denied the opportunity to develop our identities. Whether LGBTQ+, neurodiverse, racial minority, or living with trauma or disease, we stumble through the world, learning to anticipate constant challenge and new ways to be hurt. When others speak of fond memories, we recall the effort we put into masking through it. When memories are too painful, we try to forget them – but they stay with us, hiding below our conscious mind where they wreak havoc on our bodies, creating chronic pain, addiction, mental illness and disease.
(602) 783-8171 View (602) 783-8171
Photo of McCall Campbell, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
McCall Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012
∙ • ∙ New patients: Inquire via email. Thank you! ∙ • ∙ I know the struggle. Wanting to feel better, but nothing you have tried so far has worked for you. Consider this the first step towards achieving your goal of improved mental health! Using different therapeutic techniques based on your specific needs, I will help you work through anxiety, depression, obsessions & compulsions, eating issues, self-esteem, difficult relationships, body image, anger, self-harm, and negative thinking patterns. I work with children 10+, adolescents, and adults. I am an LGBTQ+ ally and am experienced in working with the community.
∙ • ∙ New patients: Inquire via email. Thank you! ∙ • ∙ I know the struggle. Wanting to feel better, but nothing you have tried so far has worked for you. Consider this the first step towards achieving your goal of improved mental health! Using different therapeutic techniques based on your specific needs, I will help you work through anxiety, depression, obsessions & compulsions, eating issues, self-esteem, difficult relationships, body image, anger, self-harm, and negative thinking patterns. I work with children 10+, adolescents, and adults. I am an LGBTQ+ ally and am experienced in working with the community.
(480) 303-7123 View (480) 303-7123
Photo of Jordan Hicks, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
As a queer woman of color, I believe in creating a non-judgmental and culturally sensitive space that allows clients to grow safely.
Hi! I’m Jordan Hicks (she/they), and I am accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker at the Gender Identity Center in Phoenix. I received my bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University in Psychology with a focus on Gender Studies and Human Development. I earned my Master of Arts in Social Work from The University of Chicago, with a focus on trauma informed care. I recently moved back to Arizona to begin my professional career. I believe knowing oneself intimately is a special gift that we all deserve. Therapy can be used as a guiding tool in understanding your mind and body in more intimate ways.
As a queer woman of color, I believe in creating a non-judgmental and culturally sensitive space that allows clients to grow safely.
Hi! I’m Jordan Hicks (she/they), and I am accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker at the Gender Identity Center in Phoenix. I received my bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University in Psychology with a focus on Gender Studies and Human Development. I earned my Master of Arts in Social Work from The University of Chicago, with a focus on trauma informed care. I recently moved back to Arizona to begin my professional career. I believe knowing oneself intimately is a special gift that we all deserve. Therapy can be used as a guiding tool in understanding your mind and body in more intimate ways.
(623) 253-8755 View (623) 253-8755
Photo of Ren Elliott, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ren Elliott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012  (Online Only)
I'm a queer, neurodivergent therapist that brings a queer, neurodiverse perspective to therapy.
If you're LGBT+ or neurodiverse, you know how murky and chaotic this road can be. It's a difficult journey, figuring yourself out and untangling yourself from your trauma. I'm here to help. I take a comfortable, compassionate, slightly humorous approach to therapy where I focus on self-empowerment in the face of complicated systems of oppression, collaboration with my clients where we go wherever you want to go in your journey, and discovering the joy of living authentically.
I'm a queer, neurodivergent therapist that brings a queer, neurodiverse perspective to therapy.
If you're LGBT+ or neurodiverse, you know how murky and chaotic this road can be. It's a difficult journey, figuring yourself out and untangling yourself from your trauma. I'm here to help. I take a comfortable, compassionate, slightly humorous approach to therapy where I focus on self-empowerment in the face of complicated systems of oppression, collaboration with my clients where we go wherever you want to go in your journey, and discovering the joy of living authentically.
(417) 900-3101 View (417) 900-3101
Photo of Shae Moreau, MC, LAC, Counselor
Shae Moreau
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004
As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I see each client as their own unique person and wish to honor their culture, sexuality, belief systems, and gender identity.
As a neurodiverse, biromantic, asexual, non-binary person, I recognize the need for therapists who are open and affirming of client identities. I have seen people change through the power of genuine, non-judgmental counseling that allows people a safe space to look at themselves and how they want to fit into the world. My goal is to provide that same warmth and compassion in a way that is tailored to fit an individual’s needs. I firmly believe that everyone has what it takes to grow, and I am here to provide the reflective space for that growth.
As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I see each client as their own unique person and wish to honor their culture, sexuality, belief systems, and gender identity.
As a neurodiverse, biromantic, asexual, non-binary person, I recognize the need for therapists who are open and affirming of client identities. I have seen people change through the power of genuine, non-judgmental counseling that allows people a safe space to look at themselves and how they want to fit into the world. My goal is to provide that same warmth and compassion in a way that is tailored to fit an individual’s needs. I firmly believe that everyone has what it takes to grow, and I am here to provide the reflective space for that growth.
(480) 780-3125 View (480) 780-3125
Photo of Michele Roya Chinichian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Roya Chinichian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85021
I specialize in working with adults with a history of depression, anxiety, family conflict, religious trauma, career/academic stress, LGBTQIA issues, alternative lifestyles, dating and relationship struggles.
** Book an appointment with me here: https://bit.ly/3Ee0nhO** I believe everyone has the ability and desire to have an extraordinary life. I see therapy as a healing conversation that provides clients with a safe, non-judgmental place to express their challenges, and helps them to rediscover their strengths, talents and resources. My intention is to create a collaborative partnership to support my clients in finding solutions that are consistent with their values and beliefs. Whatever it is that brings you to counseling, together we can overcome self-doubt and obstacles to create the healthiest version of yourself.
I specialize in working with adults with a history of depression, anxiety, family conflict, religious trauma, career/academic stress, LGBTQIA issues, alternative lifestyles, dating and relationship struggles.
** Book an appointment with me here: https://bit.ly/3Ee0nhO** I believe everyone has the ability and desire to have an extraordinary life. I see therapy as a healing conversation that provides clients with a safe, non-judgmental place to express their challenges, and helps them to rediscover their strengths, talents and resources. My intention is to create a collaborative partnership to support my clients in finding solutions that are consistent with their values and beliefs. Whatever it is that brings you to counseling, together we can overcome self-doubt and obstacles to create the healthiest version of yourself.
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Photo of Breanna Wandrych, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breanna Wandrych
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003
I specialize in gender and neurodivergent affirming therapy for Autistic and ADHD, LGBTQ+ adults. My focus is on supporting those in Gen Z and Millennial generations who are starting to realize that their perfectionism is holding them back and want to better align with their most authentic selves. I invite you to step into a space where you can express yourself and explore your inner world where the multitudes you contain are not just accepted but cherished. If you possess a natural curiosity about yourself and the world, we will likely work wonderfully together.
I specialize in gender and neurodivergent affirming therapy for Autistic and ADHD, LGBTQ+ adults. My focus is on supporting those in Gen Z and Millennial generations who are starting to realize that their perfectionism is holding them back and want to better align with their most authentic selves. I invite you to step into a space where you can express yourself and explore your inner world where the multitudes you contain are not just accepted but cherished. If you possess a natural curiosity about yourself and the world, we will likely work wonderfully together.
(602) 833-0439 View (602) 833-0439
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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.