LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Garden Grove, CA

Photo of Ben N Quan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben N Quan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92842  (Online Only)
As LGBTQ minorities, we often find ourselves wondering "where is my community?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we don't feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder... when is this going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just "don't get it." We really want someone who can connect to us and make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
As LGBTQ minorities, we often find ourselves wondering "where is my community?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we don't feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder... when is this going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just "don't get it." We really want someone who can connect to us and make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
(951) 227-7430 View (951) 227-7430
Photo of Cleo Oubre - Embracing Therapy with Cleo Oubre, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Embracing Therapy with Cleo Oubre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garden Grove, CA 92843  (Online Only)
I have been professionally working with marginalized communities, specifically BIPOC & LGBTQ folks, and survivors of violence since 2015.
How would you rate the quality of your relationships at this moment? Do you enjoy your own company? How is your connection with your family? Do you feel you are connected to a particular community? Any community? Let's explore the various manifestations of loneliness and intimacy. Your overall well-being is determined by the status of your intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships. I want to work with you to create the life you deserve & desire - let's work toward it together.
I have been professionally working with marginalized communities, specifically BIPOC & LGBTQ folks, and survivors of violence since 2015.
How would you rate the quality of your relationships at this moment? Do you enjoy your own company? How is your connection with your family? Do you feel you are connected to a particular community? Any community? Let's explore the various manifestations of loneliness and intimacy. Your overall well-being is determined by the status of your intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships. I want to work with you to create the life you deserve & desire - let's work toward it together.
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Photo of Ryan Morgan, PsyD, Psychologist
Ryan Morgan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92843
While he has extensive experience with individuals from the LGBTQ+ communities, he works with and welcomes all.
Ryan Morgan, Psy. D. is a licensed psychologist who has been practicing since 2002. He graduated from the California School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles with a doctorate degree in clinical psychology. Ryan believes working together, with compassion and understanding, provides a professional and safe environment without fear of judgment or stereotype. His therapeutic approach draws from a variety of techniques in order to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. He enjoys forming genuine connections with others, helping them through their process, and learning from them along the way.
While he has extensive experience with individuals from the LGBTQ+ communities, he works with and welcomes all.
Ryan Morgan, Psy. D. is a licensed psychologist who has been practicing since 2002. He graduated from the California School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles with a doctorate degree in clinical psychology. Ryan believes working together, with compassion and understanding, provides a professional and safe environment without fear of judgment or stereotype. His therapeutic approach draws from a variety of techniques in order to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. He enjoys forming genuine connections with others, helping them through their process, and learning from them along the way.
(657) 530-5292 View (657) 530-5292
Photo of Lauren Ashley Shapiro, PsyD, CCTP, Psychologist
Lauren Ashley Shapiro
Psychologist, PsyD, CCTP
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92840  (Online Only)
I specialize in young adult issues, especially, life transitions, ADHD, LGBT concerns, ENM/CNM/polyamorous and kinky relationships. I believe in treating underlying causes and improving symptoms rather than labeling them. I use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to help clients achieve their personal goals. I tailor my approach to suit each client's needs and involve clients in each step of the process. I am confident that I can help you navigate any difficult life transition, interpersonal conflict, personal challenge, and/or mental health-related situation that you are facing and encourage you to reach out.
I specialize in young adult issues, especially, life transitions, ADHD, LGBT concerns, ENM/CNM/polyamorous and kinky relationships. I believe in treating underlying causes and improving symptoms rather than labeling them. I use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to help clients achieve their personal goals. I tailor my approach to suit each client's needs and involve clients in each step of the process. I am confident that I can help you navigate any difficult life transition, interpersonal conflict, personal challenge, and/or mental health-related situation that you are facing and encourage you to reach out.
(714) 400-2187 View (714) 400-2187
Photo of Tracy Birkinbine, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy Birkinbine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92840
I am highly LGBTQ+ friendly!.
Hi! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who offers non-judgmental, compassionate, and safe counseling to adolescents and adults. I know it is hard to decide to seek out counseling, so I am sensitive to the difficulty it is opening up to someone new. I specialize in assisting individuals dealing with life changes, grief and loss, career changes, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and understanding the wide range of emotions facing infertility and adoption. I aim to be an interactive, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral therapist.
I am highly LGBTQ+ friendly!.
Hi! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who offers non-judgmental, compassionate, and safe counseling to adolescents and adults. I know it is hard to decide to seek out counseling, so I am sensitive to the difficulty it is opening up to someone new. I specialize in assisting individuals dealing with life changes, grief and loss, career changes, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and understanding the wide range of emotions facing infertility and adoption. I aim to be an interactive, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral therapist.
(657) 837-5469 View (657) 837-5469
Photo of Adrienne Parker-Morano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adrienne Parker-Morano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92841
My name is Adrienne Parker-Morano. I am a licensed psychotherapist MFC39605. My focus of practice is as a Relationship Counselor/Sexuality Specialist. I specialize in sexuality; spirituality; communication; truth telling; and alternative relationship styles such as polyamory. I am LGBTQIA affirmative. My continuing education focuses primarily on sex therapy, communication, and all aspects of relationship.
My name is Adrienne Parker-Morano. I am a licensed psychotherapist MFC39605. My focus of practice is as a Relationship Counselor/Sexuality Specialist. I specialize in sexuality; spirituality; communication; truth telling; and alternative relationship styles such as polyamory. I am LGBTQIA affirmative. My continuing education focuses primarily on sex therapy, communication, and all aspects of relationship.
(657) 837-1409 View (657) 837-1409
Photo of William Huntley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William Huntley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92841
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, which I identify as gay or queer, I particularly focus on this population as we tend to be a marginalized community.
Hello, I am Liam Huntley, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have been working in Social Services/Social Work/Therapy for over 20 years and in Private Practice since March 2022. My main goal as a therapist when working with my clients is to help you see the truth of who you are and what you can be. It may sound strange to hear, but I love working with Trauma, whether it's from family of origin, childhood, or from today's world. I love this area because it is often the driving force of what is creating distress in our lives, and can often show up as Depression or Anxiety among other diagnoses.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, which I identify as gay or queer, I particularly focus on this population as we tend to be a marginalized community.
Hello, I am Liam Huntley, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have been working in Social Services/Social Work/Therapy for over 20 years and in Private Practice since March 2022. My main goal as a therapist when working with my clients is to help you see the truth of who you are and what you can be. It may sound strange to hear, but I love working with Trauma, whether it's from family of origin, childhood, or from today's world. I love this area because it is often the driving force of what is creating distress in our lives, and can often show up as Depression or Anxiety among other diagnoses.
(657) 255-5803 View (657) 255-5803
Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Garden Grove, CA 92845
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialities. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialities. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570
Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Garden Grove, CA 92845
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570
Photo of Valentina Torrence, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valentina Torrence
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92844  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Welcome! My name is Valentina Torrence. I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist committed to guiding clients through life's challenges. Whether it's navigating relationships, life transitions, trauma, or grief, I offer empathetic support and a safe space for growth. I'm truly passionate about helping individuals achieve positive change and healing. My approach centers on mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. I also draw from solution-focused therapy, psychodynamic, and narrative therapy techniques to create a tailored treatment plan that suits your unique needs.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Welcome! My name is Valentina Torrence. I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist committed to guiding clients through life's challenges. Whether it's navigating relationships, life transitions, trauma, or grief, I offer empathetic support and a safe space for growth. I'm truly passionate about helping individuals achieve positive change and healing. My approach centers on mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. I also draw from solution-focused therapy, psychodynamic, and narrative therapy techniques to create a tailored treatment plan that suits your unique needs.
(657) 256-3846 View (657) 256-3846
Photo of Andrea Bayon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Bayon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92843
I offer an inclusive space for those whose identities have historically been marginalized & oppressed: BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQIA+, 2S.
Andrea Bayón (she/her/ella) is an LCSW and practices holistically within the framework of body, mind & spirit. Starting first with gentle nervous system soothing, Andrea works somatically (body-based) to help individuals reconnect with their internal experience. Andrea strives to offer an inclusive space, centering & honoring the experience of those who identify as BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQIA+, 2S, as well as those embodying other historically marginalized identities.
I offer an inclusive space for those whose identities have historically been marginalized & oppressed: BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQIA+, 2S.
Andrea Bayón (she/her/ella) is an LCSW and practices holistically within the framework of body, mind & spirit. Starting first with gentle nervous system soothing, Andrea works somatically (body-based) to help individuals reconnect with their internal experience. Andrea strives to offer an inclusive space, centering & honoring the experience of those who identify as BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQIA+, 2S, as well as those embodying other historically marginalized identities.
(760) 642-1201 View (760) 642-1201
Photo of Bao Chau Nguyen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bao Chau Nguyen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92643  (Online Only)
With 10 years of experience working with diverse individuals who encounter a variety of issues including grief, mood disorders, trauma, life transition, and LGBTQ+.
Are you experiencing grief, a recent life transition, or life crisis? Are you having unresolved conflicts? Through therapy you can process through your emotions, gain greater self-awareness, recognize your resilience, and find inner freedom from your attachment(s). Until our emotions settle, our perception of ourselves, others and life can seem to be distorted or color-blinded. I believe that the core of healing is reconciliation between the different relationship conflicts within ourselves and others. I am here to provide a safe environment to process your struggles, and to help you find your own coping skills to manage your life.
With 10 years of experience working with diverse individuals who encounter a variety of issues including grief, mood disorders, trauma, life transition, and LGBTQ+.
Are you experiencing grief, a recent life transition, or life crisis? Are you having unresolved conflicts? Through therapy you can process through your emotions, gain greater self-awareness, recognize your resilience, and find inner freedom from your attachment(s). Until our emotions settle, our perception of ourselves, others and life can seem to be distorted or color-blinded. I believe that the core of healing is reconciliation between the different relationship conflicts within ourselves and others. I am here to provide a safe environment to process your struggles, and to help you find your own coping skills to manage your life.
(657) 300-3940 View (657) 300-3940
Photo of Michelle Settergren, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Settergren
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92843
Hi there! My name is Michelle Settergren and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Huntington Beach, providing teletherapy services across California. I've worked in various healing capacities for over 12 years and believe we all have the potential to be self-healers. I'm gender and LGBTQIA+ affirming, and I specialize in working with adults who've suffered from trauma/PTSD, first responder/military trauma, anxiety/social anxiety/agoraphobia, depression, personality disorders, panic disorders, communication issues, addiction, and identity confusion.
Hi there! My name is Michelle Settergren and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Huntington Beach, providing teletherapy services across California. I've worked in various healing capacities for over 12 years and believe we all have the potential to be self-healers. I'm gender and LGBTQIA+ affirming, and I specialize in working with adults who've suffered from trauma/PTSD, first responder/military trauma, anxiety/social anxiety/agoraphobia, depression, personality disorders, panic disorders, communication issues, addiction, and identity confusion.
(650) 643-5945 View (650) 643-5945
Photo of Bryana Rogel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bryana Rogel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92843
Bryana Rogel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2019. She completed her educational track in 4 years and graduated Phi Alpha Honors from Loma Linda University. Bryana prides herself on making genuine connections and supporting others as they make behavioral changes. She specializes in EMDR, CBT and client centered approaches. Bryana enjoys working with all age ranges of individuals. People who may be struggling at their current stage of life need support and get some of their questions answered. Trauma is trauma and can stay stuck which tends to keep us stuck and lost.
Bryana Rogel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2019. She completed her educational track in 4 years and graduated Phi Alpha Honors from Loma Linda University. Bryana prides herself on making genuine connections and supporting others as they make behavioral changes. She specializes in EMDR, CBT and client centered approaches. Bryana enjoys working with all age ranges of individuals. People who may be struggling at their current stage of life need support and get some of their questions answered. Trauma is trauma and can stay stuck which tends to keep us stuck and lost.
(657) 837-3122 View (657) 837-3122
Photo of Oscar A Donoso, PhD, Psychologist
Oscar A Donoso
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92843
Oscar A. Donoso is a Psychologist in California who has been practicing since 2011. He has a BA in Psychology and Social Behavior from UC Irvine, a Masters in Counseling in Students Affairs from UCLA, a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from DePaul University, and completed a 2-year Post-doctoral Psychology Fellowship in Early Child Mental Health. Relationships are at the heart of our development throughout the lifespan. Oscar takes a relational and developmental approach using evidence-based practices (e. g. , CBT, CPP, etc. ) in working with adults, adolescents, children, and infants.
Oscar A. Donoso is a Psychologist in California who has been practicing since 2011. He has a BA in Psychology and Social Behavior from UC Irvine, a Masters in Counseling in Students Affairs from UCLA, a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from DePaul University, and completed a 2-year Post-doctoral Psychology Fellowship in Early Child Mental Health. Relationships are at the heart of our development throughout the lifespan. Oscar takes a relational and developmental approach using evidence-based practices (e. g. , CBT, CPP, etc. ) in working with adults, adolescents, children, and infants.
(657) 210-9303 View (657) 210-9303
Photo of Shannon Nichols, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Nichols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92843
Shannon Nichols is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2019. Shannon offers a humanistic approach to clients struggling with any challenges with their overall mental health and wellness. She utilizes emotion-focused and person-centered techniques to explore a person's individualized challenges and assist in finding ways to process through and problem-solve those challenges.
Shannon Nichols is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2019. Shannon offers a humanistic approach to clients struggling with any challenges with their overall mental health and wellness. She utilizes emotion-focused and person-centered techniques to explore a person's individualized challenges and assist in finding ways to process through and problem-solve those challenges.
(657) 530-6647 View (657) 530-6647
Photo of Lisa Langdale, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Langdale
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden Grove, CA 92845
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting process. We all struggle at times in life and sometimes it is hard to solve our problems all on our own. I provide the space for you to work through whatever thoughts, feelings, and/or behaviors have you feeling stuck or cause you to feel dissatisfied with yourself, your relationships, or just life in general. My role is to offer insight, guidance, and support when family and friends aren't enough.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting process. We all struggle at times in life and sometimes it is hard to solve our problems all on our own. I provide the space for you to work through whatever thoughts, feelings, and/or behaviors have you feeling stuck or cause you to feel dissatisfied with yourself, your relationships, or just life in general. My role is to offer insight, guidance, and support when family and friends aren't enough.
(562) 243-5891 View (562) 243-5891
Photo of Amy Leigh Le Reve Renderos, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Leigh Le Reve Renderos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden Grove, CA 92840
Life is consistently pulling us and twisting us all in a multitude of directions. Life demands we ‘do this now' then 'hurry up and do that' and then hold on tight because there is even more, we 'must hurry up and accomplish this next thing right now!' If this sounds familiar, my guess is that you are exhausted if not overwhelmed. I know firsthand that life can often take us down unexpected roads that might feel extremely scary and intense. I also know that there is infinite power and resilience that comes from seeking help, leaning in, and doing the work that helps us cope during the difficult times and feel grounded once again.
Life is consistently pulling us and twisting us all in a multitude of directions. Life demands we ‘do this now' then 'hurry up and do that' and then hold on tight because there is even more, we 'must hurry up and accomplish this next thing right now!' If this sounds familiar, my guess is that you are exhausted if not overwhelmed. I know firsthand that life can often take us down unexpected roads that might feel extremely scary and intense. I also know that there is infinite power and resilience that comes from seeking help, leaning in, and doing the work that helps us cope during the difficult times and feel grounded once again.
(951) 498-4422 View (951) 498-4422
Photo of Karla Morel, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karla Morel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92841  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with BIPOC young adults in academia/ higher education or navigating transitioning into the workplace. I love working with new mothers who are adjusting to the whirlwind of emotions and life changes that accompany motherhood. I am dedicated to providing support to individuals struggling with relationship loss or bereavement. NOW Booking via Headspace! Please click my "website" button to schedule your own appointment today!
I am passionate about working with BIPOC young adults in academia/ higher education or navigating transitioning into the workplace. I love working with new mothers who are adjusting to the whirlwind of emotions and life changes that accompany motherhood. I am dedicated to providing support to individuals struggling with relationship loss or bereavement. NOW Booking via Headspace! Please click my "website" button to schedule your own appointment today!
(657) 571-3007 View (657) 571-3007
Photo of Blake Kerr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Blake Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92843
Hi there, I'm Blake, a licensed clinical social worker. I've helped people with many issues like anxiety, depression, personality disorders, grief, divorce, severe mental diagnoses, and many more. I am trained in many different therapies and tailor a plan to each patient, rather than tailoring a patient to a plan. In my view, people used to mostly lived in close-knit communities, which has eroded with the advances in transportation and technology. Most people have lost the social support our forebearers had. Mental Health Professionals have taken on this role and are an excellent resource to improve your well-being.
Hi there, I'm Blake, a licensed clinical social worker. I've helped people with many issues like anxiety, depression, personality disorders, grief, divorce, severe mental diagnoses, and many more. I am trained in many different therapies and tailor a plan to each patient, rather than tailoring a patient to a plan. In my view, people used to mostly lived in close-knit communities, which has eroded with the advances in transportation and technology. Most people have lost the social support our forebearers had. Mental Health Professionals have taken on this role and are an excellent resource to improve your well-being.
(714) 942-0651 View (714) 942-0651
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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.