LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Fullerton, CA

Photo of Ami Koide, Ami, Koide, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ami Koide
Marriage & Family Therapist, Ami, Koide, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92835
I enjoy working with different diversities such as LGBTQIA+, culture, and etc.
I wonder what kind of therapists people scroll through psychology profiles to therapist shop for. When people ask me what my ideal client I actually wonder whats people's ideal therapists? I think this is important when thinking about an ideal client and therapists because I see it as a collaborative work. I'm not here to force you what I think is best for you, therapy is something both the client and therapist figure out together to meet the clients' needs and goals.
I enjoy working with different diversities such as LGBTQIA+, culture, and etc.
I wonder what kind of therapists people scroll through psychology profiles to therapist shop for. When people ask me what my ideal client I actually wonder whats people's ideal therapists? I think this is important when thinking about an ideal client and therapists because I see it as a collaborative work. I'm not here to force you what I think is best for you, therapy is something both the client and therapist figure out together to meet the clients' needs and goals.
(714) 681-1082 View (714) 681-1082
Photo of Nick Ulrich, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nick Ulrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92835
I believe that one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Beginning in therapy can be a way for you to start to put together the pieces of your life and who you are. And ultimately, you deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. If you're someone that struggles with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, LGBTQIA issues, and past trauma, I'd love to help you work through those challenges. I want to be the therapist that helps you along that journey.
I believe that one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Beginning in therapy can be a way for you to start to put together the pieces of your life and who you are. And ultimately, you deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. If you're someone that struggles with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, LGBTQIA issues, and past trauma, I'd love to help you work through those challenges. I want to be the therapist that helps you along that journey.
(714) 924-3032 View (714) 924-3032
Photo of Steven Su, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steven Su
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92832
I have experience working effectively with adults, young adults, and teenagers facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, phase-of-life issues, trauma, and grief. Additionally, I provide couples therapy to enhance relationships and communication skills. My specialization includes supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, racial minorities, Asian Americans, children of immigrants, individuals with autism, and their families.
I have experience working effectively with adults, young adults, and teenagers facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, phase-of-life issues, trauma, and grief. Additionally, I provide couples therapy to enhance relationships and communication skills. My specialization includes supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, racial minorities, Asian Americans, children of immigrants, individuals with autism, and their families.
(714) 930-1542 View (714) 930-1542
Photo of Beth Patrick, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beth Patrick
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92835
As a white, lesbian/queer, cisgender clinician I hold firm to my commitment to providing racially just, and affirmative care for transgender and nonbinary clients.
Hello, and thank you for taking a minute to read a bit about me and my work. I understand that life can be full of difficult experiences and circumstances that are often challenging to navigate on our own. Having worked in the counseling field for over ten years I have had the honor of joining with many adolescents, adults, couples, and families as they've journeyed through any number of experiences including relationship stress, gender and sexual identity development, life transitions, experiences of depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and death and grief.
As a white, lesbian/queer, cisgender clinician I hold firm to my commitment to providing racially just, and affirmative care for transgender and nonbinary clients.
Hello, and thank you for taking a minute to read a bit about me and my work. I understand that life can be full of difficult experiences and circumstances that are often challenging to navigate on our own. Having worked in the counseling field for over ten years I have had the honor of joining with many adolescents, adults, couples, and families as they've journeyed through any number of experiences including relationship stress, gender and sexual identity development, life transitions, experiences of depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and death and grief.
(714) 461-2516 View (714) 461-2516
Photo of Tracey M Clark, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracey M Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92835
I use an integrative model incorporating systems theories, existential theory, queer and feminist theory into my work with both clinicians and clients.
Hi there! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in gender and sexuality. I've been doing this work for more than ten years and enjoy it immensely. I value deep connection and enjoy helping people make positive changes in their lives. ​ Some of my areas of interest include: intersectional identity, anxiety, relational issues, and ADHD.
I use an integrative model incorporating systems theories, existential theory, queer and feminist theory into my work with both clinicians and clients.
Hi there! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in gender and sexuality. I've been doing this work for more than ten years and enjoy it immensely. I value deep connection and enjoy helping people make positive changes in their lives. ​ Some of my areas of interest include: intersectional identity, anxiety, relational issues, and ADHD.
(714) 589-2391 View (714) 589-2391
Photo of Mariya Milan, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mariya Milan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92831
Not accepting new clients
My therapy is LGBTQ+ affirming, sex-positive, geek/nerd-friendly, and culturally humble.
I want to be your sparkle homie (a.k.a. therapist). What does it mean to be a sparkle homie? To me, a sparkle homie is a person who “gets you” where you are at. As a therapist (and sparkle homie), I seek to affirm, understand, and truly see folx. I utilize holistic, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive therapies to be a partner in folxs’ journeys toward wholeness.
My therapy is LGBTQ+ affirming, sex-positive, geek/nerd-friendly, and culturally humble.
I want to be your sparkle homie (a.k.a. therapist). What does it mean to be a sparkle homie? To me, a sparkle homie is a person who “gets you” where you are at. As a therapist (and sparkle homie), I seek to affirm, understand, and truly see folx. I utilize holistic, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive therapies to be a partner in folxs’ journeys toward wholeness.
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Photo of Alexandra Rosenberg, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexandra Rosenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92831  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples.
You're not exactly sure why, but sometimes you feel alone even when there are other people around. It's overwhelming navigating through shame and trying to find self-acceptance. Maybe you are feeling as if you don't know exactly who you are and are having difficulties with your relationships. Or maybe that you lose yourself in some relationships. Either way, you feel an emptiness that seems like no one else will understand. Despite not knowing exactly how to shake this feeling, you know that it's time for change.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples.
You're not exactly sure why, but sometimes you feel alone even when there are other people around. It's overwhelming navigating through shame and trying to find self-acceptance. Maybe you are feeling as if you don't know exactly who you are and are having difficulties with your relationships. Or maybe that you lose yourself in some relationships. Either way, you feel an emptiness that seems like no one else will understand. Despite not knowing exactly how to shake this feeling, you know that it's time for change.
(714) 576-2942 View (714) 576-2942
Photo of Michael Evans-Zepeda, PsyD, Psychologist
Michael Evans-Zepeda
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92835
Michael is also LGBTQIA friendly.
Michael D. Evans-Zepeda is a Psychologist in California who has been practicing since 2011. It takes vulnerability and courage to reach out, especially when we are in pain. When working with clients, Michael does his best to co-create a safe containing environment that allows us to explore, integrate, change, and accept difficult aspects of our lived experience. This is accomplished through the exploration of how the past comes into the present moment and by working in the relational space between therapist and client.
Michael is also LGBTQIA friendly.
Michael D. Evans-Zepeda is a Psychologist in California who has been practicing since 2011. It takes vulnerability and courage to reach out, especially when we are in pain. When working with clients, Michael does his best to co-create a safe containing environment that allows us to explore, integrate, change, and accept difficult aspects of our lived experience. This is accomplished through the exploration of how the past comes into the present moment and by working in the relational space between therapist and client.
(657) 571-6827 View (657) 571-6827
Photo of Mike L Migdat, LCSW, MSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mike L Migdat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92832  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, but I take great pride in supporting individuals from all walks of life.
Everyone deserves an enriching life full of meaning and purpose regardless of the difficulties that may come our way. My goal is to provide an affirming space for you to develop a deep understanding of yourself, explore challenges you’re facing both internally and externally, and discover healthy ways to achieve your goals. No matter where our work together takes us, you will always receive unconditional acceptance, respect, and care.
I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, but I take great pride in supporting individuals from all walks of life.
Everyone deserves an enriching life full of meaning and purpose regardless of the difficulties that may come our way. My goal is to provide an affirming space for you to develop a deep understanding of yourself, explore challenges you’re facing both internally and externally, and discover healthy ways to achieve your goals. No matter where our work together takes us, you will always receive unconditional acceptance, respect, and care.
(424) 389-5092 View (424) 389-5092
Photo of Auria Zahed, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Auria Zahed
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92832  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Auria Zahed, and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with adults who are struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression due to the impacts of a negative self-talk, perfectionism, people-pleasing, or feeling "stuck". In each therapy session, I focus on mental well-being and emotional awareness, and my approach is a combination of a few therapeutic modalities. My sessions incorporate healing past traumas alongside accomplishing present goals. I currently specialize in working with women, victims of narcissistic abuse, and clients who identify as LGBTQ+ and/or BIPOC.
Hi there! My name is Auria Zahed, and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with adults who are struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression due to the impacts of a negative self-talk, perfectionism, people-pleasing, or feeling "stuck". In each therapy session, I focus on mental well-being and emotional awareness, and my approach is a combination of a few therapeutic modalities. My sessions incorporate healing past traumas alongside accomplishing present goals. I currently specialize in working with women, victims of narcissistic abuse, and clients who identify as LGBTQ+ and/or BIPOC.
(714) 786-1711 View (714) 786-1711
Photo of Lynne Palmer, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynne Palmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92832
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of clients. To choose one ideal client would be impossible for me. I have enjoyed working with adolescents, children, young adults, older adults, couples, and families. Treatment has included addressing anger issues, substance abuse, self-esteem deficits, depression, anxiety, marital issues, domestic violence, as well as gay/lesbian issues. Utilizing a positive regard for each client while creating a treatment plan with the client to address his/her concerns, I strive to develop therapeutic relationships with my clients that will maximize effective healing.
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of clients. To choose one ideal client would be impossible for me. I have enjoyed working with adolescents, children, young adults, older adults, couples, and families. Treatment has included addressing anger issues, substance abuse, self-esteem deficits, depression, anxiety, marital issues, domestic violence, as well as gay/lesbian issues. Utilizing a positive regard for each client while creating a treatment plan with the client to address his/her concerns, I strive to develop therapeutic relationships with my clients that will maximize effective healing.
(714) 594-5981 View (714) 594-5981
Photo of Kathlynn Gates, ASW
Kathlynn Gates
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92832
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with issues stemming from substance abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and personality disorders.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with issues stemming from substance abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and personality disorders.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(714) 519-2761 View (714) 519-2761
Photo of Ashleigh Sorenson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashleigh Sorenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92832
Reach out to any of our clinicians for a free 15-minute phone consultation to make sure we're the right fit for you! Our therapists are trauma-informed and LGBTQ+ inclusive and affirming.
Accepting New Clients! We specialize in working with folks who have faced and survived various kinds of trauma, anxiety, complex post-traumatic stress, and depression. We work with people who are exploring all parts of their identities, from relationships and work to sexuality, gender, spirituality, and creativity. ​ Challenging early life experiences can effect how we show up in adulthood. This can lead to loneliness, despair, constant longing, confusion, panic, or withdrawal from life. You may have found yourself at a cross-roads where old ways of relating to yourself and others no longer works.
Reach out to any of our clinicians for a free 15-minute phone consultation to make sure we're the right fit for you! Our therapists are trauma-informed and LGBTQ+ inclusive and affirming.
Accepting New Clients! We specialize in working with folks who have faced and survived various kinds of trauma, anxiety, complex post-traumatic stress, and depression. We work with people who are exploring all parts of their identities, from relationships and work to sexuality, gender, spirituality, and creativity. ​ Challenging early life experiences can effect how we show up in adulthood. This can lead to loneliness, despair, constant longing, confusion, panic, or withdrawal from life. You may have found yourself at a cross-roads where old ways of relating to yourself and others no longer works.
(657) 255-5590 View (657) 255-5590
Photo of Karley White, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Karley White
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92835
I also practice from an LGBTQ+-affirming, sex-positive, kink-positive, antiracist, and anti-ablest standpoint.
Do you ever feel like you don’t know yourself? Like you’re stuck in a pattern of thoughts and behaviors that don’t align with who you want to be? My job is to help you discover yourself, move beyond shame, make peace with your imperfections, and create a more authentic way of living. I believe growth is best cultivated through curiosity, compassion, and collaboration. You are the author of your life story. I am the copy editor guiding you through a journey of exploration, understanding, and acceptance. I will encourage you to reflect on your values, relationships, behaviors, and aspirations to find what feels the most like you.
I also practice from an LGBTQ+-affirming, sex-positive, kink-positive, antiracist, and anti-ablest standpoint.
Do you ever feel like you don’t know yourself? Like you’re stuck in a pattern of thoughts and behaviors that don’t align with who you want to be? My job is to help you discover yourself, move beyond shame, make peace with your imperfections, and create a more authentic way of living. I believe growth is best cultivated through curiosity, compassion, and collaboration. You are the author of your life story. I am the copy editor guiding you through a journey of exploration, understanding, and acceptance. I will encourage you to reflect on your values, relationships, behaviors, and aspirations to find what feels the most like you.
(657) 301-4063 View (657) 301-4063
Photo of Hannah Pasternak, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Pasternak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92832  (Online Only)
bipolar disorder, depression, divorce, domestic violence, family conflict, LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, PTSD, substance use, self-esteem, and grief.
: : CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS : : I believe that seeking support for your current difficulties shows strength and courage. As a therapist, I provide a non-judgemental, empathetic, and warm environment to examine life's challenges. My aim is to provide spaces of safety, realness, and compassion to work collaboratively towards the goals you see for yourself. I use a strengths-based and skills-based approach to identify your concerns and create a constructive plan for your healing and moving forward. I have experience working with adolescents and adult clients navigating ADHD, adolescent behavior issues, anxiety,
bipolar disorder, depression, divorce, domestic violence, family conflict, LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, PTSD, substance use, self-esteem, and grief.
: : CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS : : I believe that seeking support for your current difficulties shows strength and courage. As a therapist, I provide a non-judgemental, empathetic, and warm environment to examine life's challenges. My aim is to provide spaces of safety, realness, and compassion to work collaboratively towards the goals you see for yourself. I use a strengths-based and skills-based approach to identify your concerns and create a constructive plan for your healing and moving forward. I have experience working with adolescents and adult clients navigating ADHD, adolescent behavior issues, anxiety,
(714) 266-1634 View (714) 266-1634
Photo of Sterling Walker, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92832
I specialize in LGBTQ issues, couples therapy, and sex therapy.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
I specialize in LGBTQ issues, couples therapy, and sex therapy.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(714) 942-4180 View (714) 942-4180
Photo of Jacqueline Plante, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline Plante
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92835
Additionally I have experience supporting infertility, infidelity, and LGBTQ+ relationships.
My passion is connection, and my goal is to help you sift through the myriad of things that exist to get in the way of that connection. I work from a dual lens of attachment and intersectional feminism that seeks to understand how our relationship with our caregiver forms the way we seek interaction, and in which ways our social location is impacted by systems in our world. In other words, the melding of our past and our present. While I don't believe in eliminating relationship challenges, I do believe that our understanding of ourselves helps us to navigate challenges in a way that feels safe, manageable, and easeful.
Additionally I have experience supporting infertility, infidelity, and LGBTQ+ relationships.
My passion is connection, and my goal is to help you sift through the myriad of things that exist to get in the way of that connection. I work from a dual lens of attachment and intersectional feminism that seeks to understand how our relationship with our caregiver forms the way we seek interaction, and in which ways our social location is impacted by systems in our world. In other words, the melding of our past and our present. While I don't believe in eliminating relationship challenges, I do believe that our understanding of ourselves helps us to navigate challenges in a way that feels safe, manageable, and easeful.
(714) 598-2480 View (714) 598-2480
Photo of Christi Gallon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christi Gallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92832
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
(714) 908-9714 View (714) 908-9714
Photo of Eli J Ko, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eli J Ko
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92835  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As an Asian-American therapist, I understand the unique experiences and struggles of the BIPOC and LGBTQ communities. I have seen how social, cultural, and religious factors impact our mental health. I believe our past experiences, especially those related to early attachment relationships, can significantly impact our current emotional and relational functioning.
As an Asian-American therapist, I understand the unique experiences and struggles of the BIPOC and LGBTQ communities. I have seen how social, cultural, and religious factors impact our mental health. I believe our past experiences, especially those related to early attachment relationships, can significantly impact our current emotional and relational functioning.
(714) 869-7025 View (714) 869-7025
Photo of Alex Kropf, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alex Kropf
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92832
My passion lies in supporting those of all ages and identity backgrounds who are interested in self exploration and discovery. I practice from a trauma informed, sex-positive, queer affirming, feminist, spiritual and social justice-oriented standpoint. Understanding how the “personal is political” and how psychological challenges are rooted in systemic oppression is central to my work. My experience in sexual/reproductive healthcare and working as a birth and postpartum doula catalyzed my interest in supporting those undergoing vulnerability regarding their sexuality, pain, pleasure, health, gender identity and life transitions.
My passion lies in supporting those of all ages and identity backgrounds who are interested in self exploration and discovery. I practice from a trauma informed, sex-positive, queer affirming, feminist, spiritual and social justice-oriented standpoint. Understanding how the “personal is political” and how psychological challenges are rooted in systemic oppression is central to my work. My experience in sexual/reproductive healthcare and working as a birth and postpartum doula catalyzed my interest in supporting those undergoing vulnerability regarding their sexuality, pain, pleasure, health, gender identity and life transitions.
(657) 500-4665 View (657) 500-4665
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.