LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Tucson, AZ

Photo of Tristan Michael Collins Hood, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tristan Michael Collins Hood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85701
As a queer professional, my focus is on building networks of resources externally 'and' internally.
I work with individuals, families, and/or systems who find themselves 'stuck'. I work from an inclusive and eclectic framework which allows me to work from the outside or join, as needed, to move past the 'stuck' points. I recently took steps towards physical gender affirming transition. Those who have known me these 13+ years in the field will find this a step in learning and growing with me; those who have heard my name as a recommendation will also find this a step in learning and growing. To learn is to grow; to grow is to be alive!
As a queer professional, my focus is on building networks of resources externally 'and' internally.
I work with individuals, families, and/or systems who find themselves 'stuck'. I work from an inclusive and eclectic framework which allows me to work from the outside or join, as needed, to move past the 'stuck' points. I recently took steps towards physical gender affirming transition. Those who have known me these 13+ years in the field will find this a step in learning and growing with me; those who have heard my name as a recommendation will also find this a step in learning and growing. To learn is to grow; to grow is to be alive!
(520) 843-0604 View (520) 843-0604
Photo of Rachel Sommerfield, MC, LPC-S, ADHD-CP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Sommerfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC-S, ADHD-CP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85704
Waitlist for new clients
I love to work with adolescents and young adults who are neurodiverse, LGBTQ+, experiencing self-doubt and perfectionism and have experience with these areas myself.
Life can get messy and overwhelming, even when we think we've got our shit together! You may be coming here as a parent feeling exhausted by how to help your child, wanting to find the right therapist for your child or teen that they connect with, or searching as an adult needing a space to process all the stressors of life. I am excited to help you get started with identifying your needs and working together to come up with goals that you feel motivated to tackle.
I love to work with adolescents and young adults who are neurodiverse, LGBTQ+, experiencing self-doubt and perfectionism and have experience with these areas myself.
Life can get messy and overwhelming, even when we think we've got our shit together! You may be coming here as a parent feeling exhausted by how to help your child, wanting to find the right therapist for your child or teen that they connect with, or searching as an adult needing a space to process all the stressors of life. I am excited to help you get started with identifying your needs and working together to come up with goals that you feel motivated to tackle.
(520) 231-7386 View (520) 231-7386
Photo of Hayley B. Miller, LAC, NCC®, CYT, Counselor
Hayley B. Miller
Counselor, LAC, NCC®, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
The therapy process will be unique to who you are & may incorporate practices from CBT, DBT, LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, inner-child healing & trauma-informed interventions.
Hi! I am a Licensed Associate Counselor & I enjoy working with both teens and adults. I have a passion for older adolescents & transition-aged youth (16-26yrs). I will meet you where you are, from a warm & nonjudgmental place. I approach counseling from a person-centered, strengths-based & identity-affirming approach. I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, heard & empowered to live in joy as their authentic selves. I consider empathy, validation & humor as the key to building a strong therapeutic alliance. "If a person is understood, he or she (or they) belongs." -Carl Rogers
The therapy process will be unique to who you are & may incorporate practices from CBT, DBT, LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, inner-child healing & trauma-informed interventions.
Hi! I am a Licensed Associate Counselor & I enjoy working with both teens and adults. I have a passion for older adolescents & transition-aged youth (16-26yrs). I will meet you where you are, from a warm & nonjudgmental place. I approach counseling from a person-centered, strengths-based & identity-affirming approach. I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, heard & empowered to live in joy as their authentic selves. I consider empathy, validation & humor as the key to building a strong therapeutic alliance. "If a person is understood, he or she (or they) belongs." -Carl Rogers
(520) 457-6546 View (520) 457-6546
Photo of Jaime Delvan, LAC, Counselor
Jaime Delvan
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85713
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+, gender non-conforming, and non-monogamous people. I am a queer, non-binary, non-monogamous, white therapist who practices from an anti-oppressive lens to empower clients.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+, gender non-conforming, and non-monogamous people. I am a queer, non-binary, non-monogamous, white therapist who practices from an anti-oppressive lens to empower clients.
(520) 455-3970 View (520) 455-3970
Photo of Lauri Mills, PhD, Psychologist
Lauri Mills
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85746  (Online Only)
I’m dedicated to providing trauma-informed, inclusive, and compassionate care to survivors of trauma, the LGBTQ+ community, and anyone struggling with anxiety, stress or relationships.
Are you feeling anxious or on edge? Are you overwhelmed because of past or recent trauma? I know how scary it can be to cope with trauma and anxiety. It can feel devastating, confusing, frustrating, and exhausting; and it impacts every part of you and your life. Together we will work to normalize how you're feeling, understand how trauma and anxiety are manifesting for you, and find ways for you to feel more grounded, empowered, and in control.
I’m dedicated to providing trauma-informed, inclusive, and compassionate care to survivors of trauma, the LGBTQ+ community, and anyone struggling with anxiety, stress or relationships.
Are you feeling anxious or on edge? Are you overwhelmed because of past or recent trauma? I know how scary it can be to cope with trauma and anxiety. It can feel devastating, confusing, frustrating, and exhausting; and it impacts every part of you and your life. Together we will work to normalize how you're feeling, understand how trauma and anxiety are manifesting for you, and find ways for you to feel more grounded, empowered, and in control.
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Photo of Robin Edgell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Edgell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
Specializing in LGBTQIA+ support, trauma, PTSD, and anxiety, I create a safe, compassionate environment where your struggles and strengths are fully acknowledged.
As a clinical social worker, my commitment is to guide individuals through their journey of healing and personal growth. Whether you are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I am here to provide dedicated support tailored to your needs. I am deeply passionate about assisting clients in cultivating self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful connections with others. Together, we will embark on a collaborative process aimed at understanding your goals and developing effective coping strategies that empower you to lead a happier and more fulfilling life.
Specializing in LGBTQIA+ support, trauma, PTSD, and anxiety, I create a safe, compassionate environment where your struggles and strengths are fully acknowledged.
As a clinical social worker, my commitment is to guide individuals through their journey of healing and personal growth. Whether you are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I am here to provide dedicated support tailored to your needs. I am deeply passionate about assisting clients in cultivating self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful connections with others. Together, we will embark on a collaborative process aimed at understanding your goals and developing effective coping strategies that empower you to lead a happier and more fulfilling life.
(520) 277-3229 View (520) 277-3229
Photo of Talia Thurber @ Entune Behavioral Health, LMSW
Talia Thurber @ Entune Behavioral Health
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I offer warm, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy, specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and gender identity.
My name is Talia, and my clients support navigating life's complexities with warmth and understanding. They grapple with anxiety, depression, or trauma, longing for healing and self-discovery. They crave a safe space to explore their identity, relationships, and transitions. Their goal is inner peace, resilience, and authentic self-expression. They want to break free from limiting beliefs, finding empowerment and belonging. I'm here to offer guidance, empathy, and tools for their journey toward holistic well-being.
I offer warm, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy, specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and gender identity.
My name is Talia, and my clients support navigating life's complexities with warmth and understanding. They grapple with anxiety, depression, or trauma, longing for healing and self-discovery. They crave a safe space to explore their identity, relationships, and transitions. Their goal is inner peace, resilience, and authentic self-expression. They want to break free from limiting beliefs, finding empowerment and belonging. I'm here to offer guidance, empathy, and tools for their journey toward holistic well-being.
(520) 525-5993 View (520) 525-5993
Photo of Nai (Audrey-Paige) Smiddy, LAC, Counselor
Nai (Audrey-Paige) Smiddy
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712  (Online Only)
I am a non-binary Licensed Associate Counselor in Arizona, license number LAC-20028.  I am currently working towards the Sex Therapist Certification and Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology at Modern Sex Therapy Institutes.  My personal and professional knowledge of gender identity, transgender treatment, and human sexuality allows me the tools to help transgender and non-binary folx live authentically with self-love and acceptance.  Working with the transgender and gender nonconforming community is my passion.  I also provide family therapy to help partners through transitions of gender identity and build connection with true acceptance of
I am a non-binary Licensed Associate Counselor in Arizona, license number LAC-20028.  I am currently working towards the Sex Therapist Certification and Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology at Modern Sex Therapy Institutes.  My personal and professional knowledge of gender identity, transgender treatment, and human sexuality allows me the tools to help transgender and non-binary folx live authentically with self-love and acceptance.  Working with the transgender and gender nonconforming community is my passion.  I also provide family therapy to help partners through transitions of gender identity and build connection with true acceptance of
(520) 210-4087 View (520) 210-4087
Photo of Marr Hassan, LAC, Counselor
Marr Hassan
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85705
Do you have a desire to feel comforted, listened to, heard, and experience healing without judgement? Together we can facilitate an honest and open environment to explore your innermost feelings and trauma without fear of stigma. I take a collaborative and client-centered approach to work towards developing a fulfilling relationship with yourself and others. My practice is tailored to those that have been considered "outsiders" such as (but not limited to) people from LGBTQ+, polyamorous, leftist, and kink communities who have traditionally been left out or exploited by the mental health field. Email is the fastest way to reach me.
Do you have a desire to feel comforted, listened to, heard, and experience healing without judgement? Together we can facilitate an honest and open environment to explore your innermost feelings and trauma without fear of stigma. I take a collaborative and client-centered approach to work towards developing a fulfilling relationship with yourself and others. My practice is tailored to those that have been considered "outsiders" such as (but not limited to) people from LGBTQ+, polyamorous, leftist, and kink communities who have traditionally been left out or exploited by the mental health field. Email is the fastest way to reach me.
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Photo of Haley Ahmann, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haley Ahmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, kink affirming, sex worker allied and trauma informed.
I am passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate sexual issues such as communication, healing trauma & history of sexual violence, libido issues, physical pain, dissociation or other blocks you may be struggling with. My approach is collaborative and intentional to help you and your partner(s) navigate unique challenges and breakthrough unhelpful patterns.
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, kink affirming, sex worker allied and trauma informed.
I am passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate sexual issues such as communication, healing trauma & history of sexual violence, libido issues, physical pain, dissociation or other blocks you may be struggling with. My approach is collaborative and intentional to help you and your partner(s) navigate unique challenges and breakthrough unhelpful patterns.
(520) 341-2490 View (520) 341-2490
Photo of Amber Moriconi, LMSW
Amber Moriconi
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
LGBTQ affirming, I create a safe space for healing and acceptance.
My ideal client seeks support in navigating life's complexities, grappling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. They're facing profound challenges like chronic illness, seeking solace and coping strategies. Amid life transitions and identity exploration, they yearn for acceptance and understanding. Their goal is to cultivate resilience, find peace amidst turmoil, and embrace their authentic self. They seek a compassionate ally to journey with them towards healing and self-discovery.
LGBTQ affirming, I create a safe space for healing and acceptance.
My ideal client seeks support in navigating life's complexities, grappling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. They're facing profound challenges like chronic illness, seeking solace and coping strategies. Amid life transitions and identity exploration, they yearn for acceptance and understanding. Their goal is to cultivate resilience, find peace amidst turmoil, and embrace their authentic self. They seek a compassionate ally to journey with them towards healing and self-discovery.
(520) 397-3780 View (520) 397-3780
Photo of Rory Bergstrom, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rory Bergstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85705
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is likely a good fit for you if: you're neurodivergent, identify as queer or trans, are exploring your sexuality or gender identity, engage in alternative relationship styles (ethical non-monogamy, polyamory), are interested in an approach to therapy that is abolition oriented and critical of systems that perpetuate harm.
I will be out of the office until September 10th 2024. Please message me to be added to my wait-list. Have you tried traditional talk-therapy and made progress at the beginning, only to find yourself stuck and frustrated months down the line? I offer treatments that catalyze deeper healing and growth to help my clients move forward; including EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Therapy and psychedelic integration. If you have struggled with depression, anxiety or PTSD and haven't found relief with standard treatments then my practice is for you. I offer in-person sessions in Tucson and virtual sessions throughout Arizona.
My practice is likely a good fit for you if: you're neurodivergent, identify as queer or trans, are exploring your sexuality or gender identity, engage in alternative relationship styles (ethical non-monogamy, polyamory), are interested in an approach to therapy that is abolition oriented and critical of systems that perpetuate harm.
I will be out of the office until September 10th 2024. Please message me to be added to my wait-list. Have you tried traditional talk-therapy and made progress at the beginning, only to find yourself stuck and frustrated months down the line? I offer treatments that catalyze deeper healing and growth to help my clients move forward; including EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Therapy and psychedelic integration. If you have struggled with depression, anxiety or PTSD and haven't found relief with standard treatments then my practice is for you. I offer in-person sessions in Tucson and virtual sessions throughout Arizona.
(520) 999-2296 View (520) 999-2296
Photo of Kristy Northey, LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristy Northey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85739  (Online Only)
Are you feeling lost amidst life's transitions, grappling with the weight of trauma or pain of not being accepted for who you are? Are you facing the turbulent waters of divorce, separation, or challenges of mental health conditions like OCD, neurodivergence, anxiety, or depression? You have come to the right place. We understand the complexities of life's twists and turns and are here to guide you through them. Whether you're looking for healing from past wounds, seeking acceptance and empowerment as part of the LGBTQ community, or searching for tools to navigate the maze of mental health challenges, our doors are open to you.
Are you feeling lost amidst life's transitions, grappling with the weight of trauma or pain of not being accepted for who you are? Are you facing the turbulent waters of divorce, separation, or challenges of mental health conditions like OCD, neurodivergence, anxiety, or depression? You have come to the right place. We understand the complexities of life's twists and turns and are here to guide you through them. Whether you're looking for healing from past wounds, seeking acceptance and empowerment as part of the LGBTQ community, or searching for tools to navigate the maze of mental health challenges, our doors are open to you.
(520) 201-0420 View (520) 201-0420
Photo of Jared Spece @ Entune Behavioral Health, LAC, CRC, Counselor
Jared Spece @ Entune Behavioral Health
Counselor, LAC, CRC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85715
I specialize in depression, grief, substance use disorder, LGBTQIA+, autism spectrum disorder, and social difficulties.
My ideal client is someone navigating life's challenges with openness to growth. They may struggle with depression, grief, or substance use, seeking support to navigate these complexities. They crave understanding, guidance, and empowerment to harness their strengths and improve their well-being. They want to feel validated, heard, and capable of achieving personal growth and fulfillment. By collaborating and exploring their unique journey together, we can cultivate resilience, purpose, and meaningful connections.
I specialize in depression, grief, substance use disorder, LGBTQIA+, autism spectrum disorder, and social difficulties.
My ideal client is someone navigating life's challenges with openness to growth. They may struggle with depression, grief, or substance use, seeking support to navigate these complexities. They crave understanding, guidance, and empowerment to harness their strengths and improve their well-being. They want to feel validated, heard, and capable of achieving personal growth and fulfillment. By collaborating and exploring their unique journey together, we can cultivate resilience, purpose, and meaningful connections.
(520) 597-7890 View (520) 597-7890
Photo of Allison Conroy, LISW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Conroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85719
Waitlist for new clients
I have significant experience and training in working with LGBTQ+ clients and couples in particular.
Welcome! I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist, licensed in SC and AZ, specializing in complex trauma (C-PTSD) recovery. With sincerity, humor, and warmth, I strive to create a trusting and nurturing environment where clients can build capacity for self-compassion and resilience. I draw from my training in Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) and am informed by Mindfulness, Somatic, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) approaches. I help individuals and couples to connect with their emotions, enhance self-awareness, and foster more authentic relationships with themselves and others.
I have significant experience and training in working with LGBTQ+ clients and couples in particular.
Welcome! I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist, licensed in SC and AZ, specializing in complex trauma (C-PTSD) recovery. With sincerity, humor, and warmth, I strive to create a trusting and nurturing environment where clients can build capacity for self-compassion and resilience. I draw from my training in Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) and am informed by Mindfulness, Somatic, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) approaches. I help individuals and couples to connect with their emotions, enhance self-awareness, and foster more authentic relationships with themselves and others.
(864) 519-2746 View (864) 519-2746
Photo of Forrest Marvin, LMSW-T, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Forrest Marvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85701
I am a non-binary, transgender person who strongly values being a part of queer community.
Maybe you're feeling stuck in the same cycles you can't seem to break out of. Maybe you're struggling to maintain relationships that feel safe and supportive. Maybe you know that you've been impacted by the painful experiences you've had, but you don't know where to start with unpacking them. It can be scary to face your pain, and you deserve support. You're not too much, and you're not alone. I want to support you with deepening your self-understanding and self-compassion. Healing is possible when you're ready to start.
I am a non-binary, transgender person who strongly values being a part of queer community.
Maybe you're feeling stuck in the same cycles you can't seem to break out of. Maybe you're struggling to maintain relationships that feel safe and supportive. Maybe you know that you've been impacted by the painful experiences you've had, but you don't know where to start with unpacking them. It can be scary to face your pain, and you deserve support. You're not too much, and you're not alone. I want to support you with deepening your self-understanding and self-compassion. Healing is possible when you're ready to start.
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Photo of Ren Elliott, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ren Elliott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85701  (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 Allison Westmoore, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Westmoore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85702  (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 Sharilyn Green, MFTI, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Sharilyn Green
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFTI
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85747
I have experience in LGBTQ, military families, mental health, terminal illness, cancer, medical marriages, and faith journeys.
I am passionate about people, relationships, and healing. I believe the greatest joy, peace, and happiness we experience in life comes from a deep connection with ourselves and with those we love. There are many reasons we don't experience these connections: trauma, attachment wounds, addictions, lack of modeling, mental health issues, and the inevitable stressors of life. I offer healing and compassion in a safe therapeutic relationship where tools, knowledge, insight, and understanding will strengthen and heal connections with yourself and others.
I have experience in LGBTQ, military families, mental health, terminal illness, cancer, medical marriages, and faith journeys.
I am passionate about people, relationships, and healing. I believe the greatest joy, peace, and happiness we experience in life comes from a deep connection with ourselves and with those we love. There are many reasons we don't experience these connections: trauma, attachment wounds, addictions, lack of modeling, mental health issues, and the inevitable stressors of life. I offer healing and compassion in a safe therapeutic relationship where tools, knowledge, insight, and understanding will strengthen and heal connections with yourself and others.
(435) 265-4171 View (435) 265-4171
Photo of Jacob Gotwals, MA, Counselor
Jacob Gotwals
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85750  (Online Only)
I’m comfortable discussing sexuality, gender, and polyamory, and I’m LGBTQ+ friendly.
Welcome! I imagine you’re facing some challenges. Maybe you're struggling with relationship issues or dating. Maybe you're having upsetting memories of traumatic experiences you've been through. Or, maybe you’re feeling anxious or insecure. Everyone struggles sometimes, and sometimes we all need help. We need someone who will listen, understand, and accept us. Someone who cares, who can help us heal. Someone who can help us make sense of what’s happening so we can see things more clearly. I’m passionate about being there for my clients in these ways, and I’m glad you’re here. I work with both individuals and couples.
I’m comfortable discussing sexuality, gender, and polyamory, and I’m LGBTQ+ friendly.
Welcome! I imagine you’re facing some challenges. Maybe you're struggling with relationship issues or dating. Maybe you're having upsetting memories of traumatic experiences you've been through. Or, maybe you’re feeling anxious or insecure. Everyone struggles sometimes, and sometimes we all need help. We need someone who will listen, understand, and accept us. Someone who cares, who can help us heal. Someone who can help us make sense of what’s happening so we can see things more clearly. I’m passionate about being there for my clients in these ways, and I’m glad you’re here. I work with both individuals and couples.
(505) 336-0088 View (505) 336-0088
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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.