LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Baldwin Hills, CA

Photo of Matthew Brinkley, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matthew Brinkley
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baldwin Hills, CA 90008  (Online Only)
As a Black and gay mental health professional, I use my intersections of diversity to connect with all clients, knowing the importance of being heard, appreciated, and understood.
Anxiety, depression, and various mental health concerns impact our ability to maintain happiness, meaningful relationships, and positive coping skills. Therapy can be intimidating and uncomfortable at times, but I pride myself in creating a very interactive, fun, and accepting experience while assisting my clients learn the tools needed to better support their overall well-being. I invite you to collaborate with me, judgement free, to achieve your mental health needs both individually and relationally.
As a Black and gay mental health professional, I use my intersections of diversity to connect with all clients, knowing the importance of being heard, appreciated, and understood.
Anxiety, depression, and various mental health concerns impact our ability to maintain happiness, meaningful relationships, and positive coping skills. Therapy can be intimidating and uncomfortable at times, but I pride myself in creating a very interactive, fun, and accepting experience while assisting my clients learn the tools needed to better support their overall well-being. I invite you to collaborate with me, judgement free, to achieve your mental health needs both individually and relationally.
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Photo of Ionna Henderson - Therapist ISH, MA, AMFT, APCC
Therapist ISH
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baldwin Hills, CA 90008  (Online Only)
Our experiences shape who we are. Our identities influence the way we perceive and interact with the world, and the way the world perceives and interacts with us. Navigating the world in my intersectional identity, I understand the importance of providing an intentional and affirming space for folx from marginalized communities. As such, I offer a holistic approach to therapy that addresses the unique needs and identities of my clients. I work with women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and veteran communities. I also work with individuals who have experienced some form of abuse, trauma, oppression, inequity, or violence.
Our experiences shape who we are. Our identities influence the way we perceive and interact with the world, and the way the world perceives and interacts with us. Navigating the world in my intersectional identity, I understand the importance of providing an intentional and affirming space for folx from marginalized communities. As such, I offer a holistic approach to therapy that addresses the unique needs and identities of my clients. I work with women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and veteran communities. I also work with individuals who have experienced some form of abuse, trauma, oppression, inequity, or violence.
(323) 897-1199 View (323) 897-1199
Photo of Monique Pierre-Louis, PsyD, Psychologist
Monique Pierre-Louis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baldwin Hills, CA 90008
We all can benefit from having a space to discuss our thoughts and learn more about ourselves. But deciding to go to therapy can be hard. My experience is working with Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I have worked with people with various issues including, with anxiety, depression, stress, relational issues, social/racial identity, people pondering life choices, grappling with belonging, dealing with health conditions, struggling with sleep, the elderly, engineers at NASA, and people in the Silicon valley technology community. We all need to be listened to and heard by others.
We all can benefit from having a space to discuss our thoughts and learn more about ourselves. But deciding to go to therapy can be hard. My experience is working with Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I have worked with people with various issues including, with anxiety, depression, stress, relational issues, social/racial identity, people pondering life choices, grappling with belonging, dealing with health conditions, struggling with sleep, the elderly, engineers at NASA, and people in the Silicon valley technology community. We all need to be listened to and heard by others.
(510) 896-3685 View (510) 896-3685
Photo of Anthony Sykes, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anthony Sykes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Baldwin Hills, CA 90008
You feel like you carry the weight of the world because you do. Too much work, or not enough. Relationship issues, or none at all. Interaction with family, blended and extended, parenting, you name it. Life is amazing, but at times it can be amazingly hard. Bring it all in. Let's unpack it and see how you can better manage the load.
You feel like you carry the weight of the world because you do. Too much work, or not enough. Relationship issues, or none at all. Interaction with family, blended and extended, parenting, you name it. Life is amazing, but at times it can be amazingly hard. Bring it all in. Let's unpack it and see how you can better manage the load.
(323) 218-0308 View (323) 218-0308
Photo of Dr. Lawrence J. Martin, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Lawrence J. Martin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Baldwin Hills, CA 90008  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience in the field. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them get back in balance, feel and act more like themselves, to feel empowered and better able to effectively manage their lives. I help people to feel more in control over their circumstances: their own thoughts and feelings, their relationships, and their responsibilities. My approach to therapy is client and family centered, warm, nonjudgmental, solution-focused, and strength-based.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience in the field. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them get back in balance, feel and act more like themselves, to feel empowered and better able to effectively manage their lives. I help people to feel more in control over their circumstances: their own thoughts and feelings, their relationships, and their responsibilities. My approach to therapy is client and family centered, warm, nonjudgmental, solution-focused, and strength-based.
(818) 660-1751 View (818) 660-1751
Photo of Terrial S Davenport, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terrial S Davenport
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baldwin Hills, CA 90008
Feeling overwhelmed, having relationship issues, work stress, past traumas interfearing with life, or just don't feel like yourself? I understand how Anxiety, Depression, Anger, and Post Traumatic Stress can leave you feeling alone, confused, unsafe or socially uncomfortable. Therapy can help if you find it difficult to set boundaries, manage emotions/behaviors, or even have healthy communication with others. Choosing the right therapist is important. I have over 18 years of experience that I use to tailor your therapy sessions to fit your individual needs in an interactive, compassionate, and supportive environment.
Feeling overwhelmed, having relationship issues, work stress, past traumas interfearing with life, or just don't feel like yourself? I understand how Anxiety, Depression, Anger, and Post Traumatic Stress can leave you feeling alone, confused, unsafe or socially uncomfortable. Therapy can help if you find it difficult to set boundaries, manage emotions/behaviors, or even have healthy communication with others. Choosing the right therapist is important. I have over 18 years of experience that I use to tailor your therapy sessions to fit your individual needs in an interactive, compassionate, and supportive environment.
(707) 203-0049 View (707) 203-0049
Photo of Daniya Ahmed, MSMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Daniya Ahmed
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MSMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baldwin Hills, CA 90008
Have you found yourself feeling increasingly anxious, worried, and stuck in patterns that cause you harm? Are you looking to develop better habits whether its boundaries with parents, healthy dating, or stress management? The current political and humanitarian climate might also be causing a sense of despair and re-trigger any past trauma or stress. My clients come to my therapy room to have a safe space to unwind, explore, rewire, breakdown, and find some grounding. I use a combination of mind-body teachings to guide you in exploring present triggers, the creation and history of them, & ways to release them in and out of session.
Have you found yourself feeling increasingly anxious, worried, and stuck in patterns that cause you harm? Are you looking to develop better habits whether its boundaries with parents, healthy dating, or stress management? The current political and humanitarian climate might also be causing a sense of despair and re-trigger any past trauma or stress. My clients come to my therapy room to have a safe space to unwind, explore, rewire, breakdown, and find some grounding. I use a combination of mind-body teachings to guide you in exploring present triggers, the creation and history of them, & ways to release them in and out of session.
(415) 965-4841 View (415) 965-4841
Photo of Kasey Phillips Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kasey Phillips Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baldwin Hills, CA 90008  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to plant seeds of change in people who are seeking growth and insight. It's often difficult to seek assistance and once the search begins it is often halted if the right connection isn't made between the client and therapist. I am here to provide a safe space where feelings to be processed and perspectives can be explored.
My goal is to plant seeds of change in people who are seeking growth and insight. It's often difficult to seek assistance and once the search begins it is often halted if the right connection isn't made between the client and therapist. I am here to provide a safe space where feelings to be processed and perspectives can be explored.
(424) 452-2615 View (424) 452-2615

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Thomas Nabors, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thomas Nabors
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
Throughout my counseling career, I have been privileged enough to work with various populations from veterans and couples to the LGBTQIA+ and recovery community.
I view therapy as a safe space where clients can feel empowered to share their stories as they experience them. My primary goal as a clinician is not to “fix” you, my goal is to support you on your internal journey as you cultivate the skills necessary to grow and heal in a conducive manner. My function as a clinician is to help clients navigate and dissect their stories as a way to help them understand the meaning behind their experiences. I always encourage my clients to come to therapy as they are and we will begin the therapeutic process from there. I DO NOT work with MINORS, COUPLES, and FAMILIES.
Throughout my counseling career, I have been privileged enough to work with various populations from veterans and couples to the LGBTQIA+ and recovery community.
I view therapy as a safe space where clients can feel empowered to share their stories as they experience them. My primary goal as a clinician is not to “fix” you, my goal is to support you on your internal journey as you cultivate the skills necessary to grow and heal in a conducive manner. My function as a clinician is to help clients navigate and dissect their stories as a way to help them understand the meaning behind their experiences. I always encourage my clients to come to therapy as they are and we will begin the therapeutic process from there. I DO NOT work with MINORS, COUPLES, and FAMILIES.
(323) 433-5829 View (323) 433-5829
Photo of Kathleen Rude - LA Somatic Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
LA Somatic Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90230
Hello! I’m Kate, a collaborative, relational, trauma-informed, and LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist. For 10+ years now, I’ve aimed to provide a safe, empowering space where we can slow down & untangle all the messiness of being a human. My hope is always for my clients come away with a greater sense of knowing themselves, more personal agency, & confidence that they can navigate the inevitable challenges of their future. I strive to embody a lens that is feminist, anti-racist & anti-oppressive in this work. My training includes Hakomi Mindful Somatic Therapy, Attachment-Focused EMDR & Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy.
Hello! I’m Kate, a collaborative, relational, trauma-informed, and LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist. For 10+ years now, I’ve aimed to provide a safe, empowering space where we can slow down & untangle all the messiness of being a human. My hope is always for my clients come away with a greater sense of knowing themselves, more personal agency, & confidence that they can navigate the inevitable challenges of their future. I strive to embody a lens that is feminist, anti-racist & anti-oppressive in this work. My training includes Hakomi Mindful Somatic Therapy, Attachment-Focused EMDR & Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy.
(310) 340-1612 View (310) 340-1612
Photo of Georgina Mendoza Gutierrez, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Georgina Mendoza Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90232
My passion and experience lies in working with artists and creatives, individuals from the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ community, women, and perinatal mental health with a special emphasis on anxiety.
Whether you are seeking therapy for creative challenges, trauma, anxiety, depression, or perinatal mental health concerns, in my work with clients, I bring a warm, intuitive, empathetic and connected presence. My goal is to empower clients to embark on a healing journey, discover their authentic selves, and challenge negative self-talk through self-awareness and community support. Using a strengths-based and relational dynamic approach, I strive to create a safe and collaborative space for clients to develop a more intimate relationship with their "inner selves."
My passion and experience lies in working with artists and creatives, individuals from the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ community, women, and perinatal mental health with a special emphasis on anxiety.
Whether you are seeking therapy for creative challenges, trauma, anxiety, depression, or perinatal mental health concerns, in my work with clients, I bring a warm, intuitive, empathetic and connected presence. My goal is to empower clients to embark on a healing journey, discover their authentic selves, and challenge negative self-talk through self-awareness and community support. Using a strengths-based and relational dynamic approach, I strive to create a safe and collaborative space for clients to develop a more intimate relationship with their "inner selves."
(323) 784-0987 View (323) 784-0987
Photo of Sean Carpenter, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sean Carpenter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups on a wide variety of issues and concerns, including but not limited to: LGBTQIA+-related issues, PTSD and trauma, anxiety and depression, unsatisfying relationships, overwhelming emotions, self-esteem and identity issues, sexual concerns, family discord, life transitions and career and work challenges.
I have a deep passion for helping people find liberation from concerns that bring them to therapy. Understanding why we do things the way we do them is critical to growth, change and healing. I ground my work in warmth, compassion, authenticity and an understanding of how thoughts and emotions relate to neuro/physiological processes, as well as how past experiences inform current beliefs, thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My aim is to help you gain clarity into underlying causes of problems, provide strategies for coping and support you in taking risks and trying new ways of being, to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups on a wide variety of issues and concerns, including but not limited to: LGBTQIA+-related issues, PTSD and trauma, anxiety and depression, unsatisfying relationships, overwhelming emotions, self-esteem and identity issues, sexual concerns, family discord, life transitions and career and work challenges.
I have a deep passion for helping people find liberation from concerns that bring them to therapy. Understanding why we do things the way we do them is critical to growth, change and healing. I ground my work in warmth, compassion, authenticity and an understanding of how thoughts and emotions relate to neuro/physiological processes, as well as how past experiences inform current beliefs, thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My aim is to help you gain clarity into underlying causes of problems, provide strategies for coping and support you in taking risks and trying new ways of being, to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(323) 310-9754 View (323) 310-9754
Photo of Ezak Marquez, LPCC
Ezak Marquez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression. I utilize a social justice and intersectional framework in acknowledging the systemic oppression affecting BIPOC communities and its impact on mental health.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression. I utilize a social justice and intersectional framework in acknowledging the systemic oppression affecting BIPOC communities and its impact on mental health.
(424) 361-6256 View (424) 361-6256
Photo of Kelly Howard, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kelly Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90037  (Online Only)
I am a sex-positive psychotherapist offering trauma-informed Telehealth sessions to individuals, couples, families, and polycules throughout California. My practice is affirming and supportive of gender, sexuality, and relationship diversity (GSRD) across all stages of life. With a nurturing, non-judgmental approach, I empower people to explore their desires, overcome obstacles, and build fulfilling relationships. I strive to provide a grounded, warm space for clients to navigate the parts of themselves that may feel challenging to explore alone. I am kink-affirming, queer-affirming, and non-monogamy-affirming!
I am a sex-positive psychotherapist offering trauma-informed Telehealth sessions to individuals, couples, families, and polycules throughout California. My practice is affirming and supportive of gender, sexuality, and relationship diversity (GSRD) across all stages of life. With a nurturing, non-judgmental approach, I empower people to explore their desires, overcome obstacles, and build fulfilling relationships. I strive to provide a grounded, warm space for clients to navigate the parts of themselves that may feel challenging to explore alone. I am kink-affirming, queer-affirming, and non-monogamy-affirming!
(341) 758-5091 View (341) 758-5091
Photo of Sean Boileau - APLA Health - David Geffen Center, Psychologist
APLA Health - David Geffen Center
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90016
We proudly serve the community at large, with a specialty for the LGBTQIA+ community and individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
We at APLA Health - David Geffen Center, located in Koreatown, are dedicated to serving our community, and we make working with individuals of all backgrounds part of our mission. We are here to help, whether you're completely committed to change or you're struggling with the idea.
We proudly serve the community at large, with a specialty for the LGBTQIA+ community and individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
We at APLA Health - David Geffen Center, located in Koreatown, are dedicated to serving our community, and we make working with individuals of all backgrounds part of our mission. We are here to help, whether you're completely committed to change or you're struggling with the idea.
(323) 329-9900 View (323) 329-9900
Photo of Rosalba Chirino - APLA Health - Gleicher/Chen Health Center, Psychologist
APLA Health - Gleicher/Chen Health Center
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90016
We at APLA Health - Gleicher/Chen Health Center are dedicated to serving our community, and we make working with individuals of all backgrounds part of our mission. We are here to help, whether you're completely committed to change or you're struggling with the idea. We provide medical, dental, and behavioral health care all within the same clinic. In addition to primary care, we offer sexual health testing and treatment, HIV/AIDs care, and medical interventions for the trans community. We also have a team of substance abuse and prevention specialists at this location.
We at APLA Health - Gleicher/Chen Health Center are dedicated to serving our community, and we make working with individuals of all backgrounds part of our mission. We are here to help, whether you're completely committed to change or you're struggling with the idea. We provide medical, dental, and behavioral health care all within the same clinic. In addition to primary care, we offer sexual health testing and treatment, HIV/AIDs care, and medical interventions for the trans community. We also have a team of substance abuse and prevention specialists at this location.
(323) 612-0729 View (323) 612-0729
Photo of Lyndsey Doolen, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lyndsey Doolen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019
I'm a trauma-informed LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist with specialized training in the exploration of gender, sexuality, and internalized oppression through an intersectional and culturally humble lens.
I'm a therapist because therapy saved my life. Through that lived experience, and with education and training, I help clients improve relationships with themselves and others, exploring a variety of topics like trauma, gender, people-pleasing, OCD, boundaries, and perfectionism. My clients are thoughtful folks who have done the best they can on their own and are looking for additional support. They seek to expand their perspective, to feel differently in the world, and want lasting change. Together we'll create that change, and I firmly believe in your inherent worth, power, and self-determination to facilitate the shift you seek.
I'm a trauma-informed LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist with specialized training in the exploration of gender, sexuality, and internalized oppression through an intersectional and culturally humble lens.
I'm a therapist because therapy saved my life. Through that lived experience, and with education and training, I help clients improve relationships with themselves and others, exploring a variety of topics like trauma, gender, people-pleasing, OCD, boundaries, and perfectionism. My clients are thoughtful folks who have done the best they can on their own and are looking for additional support. They seek to expand their perspective, to feel differently in the world, and want lasting change. Together we'll create that change, and I firmly believe in your inherent worth, power, and self-determination to facilitate the shift you seek.
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Photo of Adryan Caron, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adryan Caron
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
I have specialized training with the LGBTQ+, Transgender, Gender Non-Confirming and Queer community, and have a passion for helping these individuals thrive as in our often complex world.
My focus as a practitioner is to help you connect with your authentic self, attune to your values and needs, and learn practical tools to improve your quality of life. With over 10 years of experience serving a diverse range of individuals, I provide a therapy experience that is warm, empowering, and puts your goals at the forefront of care. I specialize in trauma-informed, attachment-focused therapy, with an emphasis on cultural humility, honoring the brain/body connection, and holistic wellness. If you are ready to heal from within, then I am here to act as your ally in that process.
I have specialized training with the LGBTQ+, Transgender, Gender Non-Confirming and Queer community, and have a passion for helping these individuals thrive as in our often complex world.
My focus as a practitioner is to help you connect with your authentic self, attune to your values and needs, and learn practical tools to improve your quality of life. With over 10 years of experience serving a diverse range of individuals, I provide a therapy experience that is warm, empowering, and puts your goals at the forefront of care. I specialize in trauma-informed, attachment-focused therapy, with an emphasis on cultural humility, honoring the brain/body connection, and holistic wellness. If you are ready to heal from within, then I am here to act as your ally in that process.
(310) 868-0983 View (310) 868-0983
Photo of Thomas Blake, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thomas Blake
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Thomas Blake (he/him/his) is a licensed marriage and family therapist working with adolescents and adults of all ages. Thomas is trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and somatic based therapy which he integrates into his process as a psychotherapist practicing through a Humanistic-Existential lens. In addition to his work in private practice, Thomas received his clinical training from The LGBTQ Center in Orange County, California and currently provides professional consultation at The Trevor Project, a national suicide prevention service supporting LGBTQ+ youth ages 13 to 24 years old.
Thomas Blake (he/him/his) is a licensed marriage and family therapist working with adolescents and adults of all ages. Thomas is trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and somatic based therapy which he integrates into his process as a psychotherapist practicing through a Humanistic-Existential lens. In addition to his work in private practice, Thomas received his clinical training from The LGBTQ Center in Orange County, California and currently provides professional consultation at The Trevor Project, a national suicide prevention service supporting LGBTQ+ youth ages 13 to 24 years old.
(323) 379-1269 View (323) 379-1269
Photo of Eric Burke, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Eric Burke
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
I am a bi-racial Native with Indigenous worldviews, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and queer-affirming.
Our deepest Self is good, creative and generative; we are beautiful and resilient beings, an integration of body, mind, spirit, and ancestry. Yet sometimes life’s challenges sabotage our joy or interrupt our purpose, leaving us feeling anxious, grieved, or manifesting destructive thought and behavioral patterns. These challenges are the daily demands of navigating our chaotic world, but sometimes include other traumas such as violence, abuse, or family and inter-generational wounds.
I am a bi-racial Native with Indigenous worldviews, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and queer-affirming.
Our deepest Self is good, creative and generative; we are beautiful and resilient beings, an integration of body, mind, spirit, and ancestry. Yet sometimes life’s challenges sabotage our joy or interrupt our purpose, leaving us feeling anxious, grieved, or manifesting destructive thought and behavioral patterns. These challenges are the daily demands of navigating our chaotic world, but sometimes include other traumas such as violence, abuse, or family and inter-generational wounds.
(323) 990-4524 View (323) 990-4524

See more therapy options for Baldwin Hills

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.