LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Gardena, CA

Photo of Michelle Settergren, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Settergren
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90247
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 Kayleigh Soto, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kayleigh Soto
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90247  (Online Only)
She specializes in the treatment of veterans and their families, sexual and combat trauma, life transitions (including transgender), anxiety, and relationships.
NOT ACCEPTING CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
She specializes in the treatment of veterans and their families, sexual and combat trauma, life transitions (including transgender), anxiety, and relationships.
NOT ACCEPTING CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(323) 922-5570 View (323) 922-5570
Photo of Kathryn Benton, LPCC
Kathryn Benton
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90247
Hello! I am Kathryn Benton, a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC), in practice for over 6 years. I currently work in the field of substance use treatment. In my previous work life, I was a family literacy advocate and adult education teacher. I have extensive experience with immigrants, disabled adults, and those struggling with substance use disorders. I have also worked with individuals with histories of trauma and current struggles with anxiety and depression.
Hello! I am Kathryn Benton, a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC), in practice for over 6 years. I currently work in the field of substance use treatment. In my previous work life, I was a family literacy advocate and adult education teacher. I have extensive experience with immigrants, disabled adults, and those struggling with substance use disorders. I have also worked with individuals with histories of trauma and current struggles with anxiety and depression.
(760) 990-1946 View (760) 990-1946
Photo of Garett Weinstein - Garett Weinstein - Expansive Therapy, AMFT, Counselor
Garett Weinstein - Expansive Therapy
Counselor, AMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Gardena, CA 90248  (Online Only)
I believe in the transformative power of genuine connection, acknowledging the unique intersections of each person's journey and creating an affirming environment where diverse identities are celebrated. Together we will navigate the intricacies of relationships, identity, and personal growth in a holistic and affirming manner.
I believe in the transformative power of genuine connection, acknowledging the unique intersections of each person's journey and creating an affirming environment where diverse identities are celebrated. Together we will navigate the intricacies of relationships, identity, and personal growth in a holistic and affirming manner.
(415) 799-1239 View (415) 799-1239
Photo of Rob Feiner, MS, LPCC, PPS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rob Feiner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, PPS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gardena, CA 90249
Everyone deserves a compassionate understanding of themselves. As we navigate through life, we are faced with uncertainties, challenges, stagnation, and cyclical internal conflict. Setting a positive, non-judgmental, collaborative environment, I hope to help you build confidence, gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and develop the emotional tools to find your inner balance achieving a sense of purpose and general wellness. To help you accomplish your therapeutic goals we may draw from Cognitive Behavioral and Emotion Focused approaches and Mindfulness Meditation.
Everyone deserves a compassionate understanding of themselves. As we navigate through life, we are faced with uncertainties, challenges, stagnation, and cyclical internal conflict. Setting a positive, non-judgmental, collaborative environment, I hope to help you build confidence, gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and develop the emotional tools to find your inner balance achieving a sense of purpose and general wellness. To help you accomplish your therapeutic goals we may draw from Cognitive Behavioral and Emotion Focused approaches and Mindfulness Meditation.
(213) 988-6511 View (213) 988-6511
Photo of Amy C Martinez - Amy Martinez, Vida Wholeness Family Therapy Corp, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Martinez, Vida Wholeness Family Therapy Corp
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90247  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Amy C. Martinez and I am a licensed bilingual clinical therapist with 7 years of experience providing individual therapy for issues ranging from depression, trauma, anxiety, anger and stress management, communication problems, life transitions, and difficult experiences such as domestic violence and sexual abuse. My counseling style is open and collaborative. I strive in providing a safe space where you can express yourself in a way that supports your authentic self as well as integrate trust, humor, and collaboration within sessions. I look forward to working with you and supporting you in this healing journey.
Hello! My name is Amy C. Martinez and I am a licensed bilingual clinical therapist with 7 years of experience providing individual therapy for issues ranging from depression, trauma, anxiety, anger and stress management, communication problems, life transitions, and difficult experiences such as domestic violence and sexual abuse. My counseling style is open and collaborative. I strive in providing a safe space where you can express yourself in a way that supports your authentic self as well as integrate trust, humor, and collaboration within sessions. I look forward to working with you and supporting you in this healing journey.
(213) 222-8377 View (213) 222-8377
Photo of Janisha Mickens-Ingram, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janisha Mickens-Ingram
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gardena, CA 90248  (Online Only)
Therapy is, at times taboo and it has been relegated to "crazy" people, it's for everyone. In a world that has been shut down and many are uncertain just know you are not alone. If you're finding yourself in limbo, decreasing in mood, and just need additional support during this time don't hesitate to ask for help. As a therapist but most importantly as a human my ability to connect and relate with almost anyone no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age.
Therapy is, at times taboo and it has been relegated to "crazy" people, it's for everyone. In a world that has been shut down and many are uncertain just know you are not alone. If you're finding yourself in limbo, decreasing in mood, and just need additional support during this time don't hesitate to ask for help. As a therapist but most importantly as a human my ability to connect and relate with almost anyone no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age.
(424) 297-1289 View (424) 297-1289
Photo of Jorge Martin, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jorge Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gardena, CA 90247  (Online Only)
To everyone around you, it looks like you have it all together – the job, the relationship, friends, trips – but inside you know it’s a different story. No one quite knows the real story, and if you were to tell them they wouldn’t understand. Between shutting down and rushing to make up for wasted time, you find yourself overwhelmed, frustrated, hopeless and lonely under your own skin. You wake up each day to start the same cycle yet again. At some point, you realize breaking the cycle is needed. After all, this is not a dress rehearsal, this is your life.
To everyone around you, it looks like you have it all together – the job, the relationship, friends, trips – but inside you know it’s a different story. No one quite knows the real story, and if you were to tell them they wouldn’t understand. Between shutting down and rushing to make up for wasted time, you find yourself overwhelmed, frustrated, hopeless and lonely under your own skin. You wake up each day to start the same cycle yet again. At some point, you realize breaking the cycle is needed. After all, this is not a dress rehearsal, this is your life.
(424) 218-9121 View (424) 218-9121
Photo of Maribel Guerra, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maribel Guerra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gardena, CA 90247
Hello! I am a bilingual LCSW with over 19 years of experience providing adult individual therapy. I provide a variety of therapeutic frameworks that can assist a client in reaching their life goals. I am also a certified Spiritual and Life coach. As a Spiritual Integration Coach, I assist clients to prepare for a pre and post deep healing journeys.
Hello! I am a bilingual LCSW with over 19 years of experience providing adult individual therapy. I provide a variety of therapeutic frameworks that can assist a client in reaching their life goals. I am also a certified Spiritual and Life coach. As a Spiritual Integration Coach, I assist clients to prepare for a pre and post deep healing journeys.
(323) 916-4251 View (323) 916-4251
Photo of Sophia Dupree, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Dupree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gardena, CA 90248
Are you a professional woman seeking support for anxiety, OCD, or ADHD? Are you looking for a therapist that you can relate to and is easy to talk to? I'm a mixed-race therapist living with OCD and ADHD, and I provide psychodynamic talk therapy and CBT & ERP therapy to women ages 18+. I take on a peer approach to therapy with my clients since I have lived experience with these disorders. I currently have immediate openings for Aetna, United Healthcare, Oxford, and Optum clients. Please reach out for a free consultation to see if we’d be a good fit.
Are you a professional woman seeking support for anxiety, OCD, or ADHD? Are you looking for a therapist that you can relate to and is easy to talk to? I'm a mixed-race therapist living with OCD and ADHD, and I provide psychodynamic talk therapy and CBT & ERP therapy to women ages 18+. I take on a peer approach to therapy with my clients since I have lived experience with these disorders. I currently have immediate openings for Aetna, United Healthcare, Oxford, and Optum clients. Please reach out for a free consultation to see if we’d be a good fit.
(323) 688-3795 View (323) 688-3795
Photo of Janet D. Dyer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janet D. Dyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90248
Life is in Session! No matter who you are, life can take its toll! From the day to day stressors of family, business, finances, relationships, or simply navigating the course of your life in today’s cultural and social climate, it is easy to feel depleted and overwhelmed. Especially, when life hits you with the unexpected traumatic blow of loss, grief, abuse, or divorce, one can become lost in an emotional fog, completely uncertain about the future. Nevertheless, whatever you are facing in life, you do not have to go it alone.
Life is in Session! No matter who you are, life can take its toll! From the day to day stressors of family, business, finances, relationships, or simply navigating the course of your life in today’s cultural and social climate, it is easy to feel depleted and overwhelmed. Especially, when life hits you with the unexpected traumatic blow of loss, grief, abuse, or divorce, one can become lost in an emotional fog, completely uncertain about the future. Nevertheless, whatever you are facing in life, you do not have to go it alone.
(424) 374-0300 View (424) 374-0300
Photo of Robbin Kay Beohourou - Compassionate Counseling, MS, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Compassionate Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90248  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you need someone to listen & care genuinely about you & your life without judgment. Families and life transitions can be difficult to navigate especially with divorce, blending families, adolescents with challenging behavior, aging parents, & death; compounded with financial, medical, educational, spiritual, relational, and identity decisions can be overwhelming. Depression and anxiety can cause additional relational & health concerns, with out support it can lead to additional mental health issues. I'm here to build a relationship of trust and compassion which will help you find the inner strength to battle life stresses.
Do you need someone to listen & care genuinely about you & your life without judgment. Families and life transitions can be difficult to navigate especially with divorce, blending families, adolescents with challenging behavior, aging parents, & death; compounded with financial, medical, educational, spiritual, relational, and identity decisions can be overwhelming. Depression and anxiety can cause additional relational & health concerns, with out support it can lead to additional mental health issues. I'm here to build a relationship of trust and compassion which will help you find the inner strength to battle life stresses.
(424) 234-2764 View (424) 234-2764
Photo of Christopher Brown LPCC, MS, LPCC, NCC
Christopher Brown LPCC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90248
Hi, possible client! You may be going through a stressful moment in your life. You may have had some complex trauma occur in your past. Or you may have a teen who is experiencing some mental health difficulties. Maybe you're looking for someone who may have more in common with you to help you through your challenges. Whether you are looking for a space to feel supported and discuss your trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship, life goals, or to simply feel seen, I may be the therapist for you.
Hi, possible client! You may be going through a stressful moment in your life. You may have had some complex trauma occur in your past. Or you may have a teen who is experiencing some mental health difficulties. Maybe you're looking for someone who may have more in common with you to help you through your challenges. Whether you are looking for a space to feel supported and discuss your trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship, life goals, or to simply feel seen, I may be the therapist for you.
(323) 701-1736 View (323) 701-1736
Photo of Michelle Beveridge, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Beveridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90249
I believe change is possible for all individuals willing to seek out support and lean into discomfort. You can do hard things and together we'll come up with a plan to live a more fulfilling life. Sometimes it is easier to stay stuck than it is to put in the work to improve our lives and circumstances. I'm here to assist you in getting unstuck whether it be from dysfunctional relationships, depression, communication issues, or life transitions by exploring our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
I believe change is possible for all individuals willing to seek out support and lean into discomfort. You can do hard things and together we'll come up with a plan to live a more fulfilling life. Sometimes it is easier to stay stuck than it is to put in the work to improve our lives and circumstances. I'm here to assist you in getting unstuck whether it be from dysfunctional relationships, depression, communication issues, or life transitions by exploring our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(714) 735-4952 View (714) 735-4952
Photo of Larissa McCain, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Larissa McCain
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90247
My name is Larissa McCain, LMFT, PMH-C. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between client and therapist, allowing a safe space to exhale the negative and create room to make positive changes. While working with clients from a variety of backgrounds, I specialize in topics and goals related to perinatal/maternal mental health, parenthood, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Supportive and Client Centered Therapy.
My name is Larissa McCain, LMFT, PMH-C. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between client and therapist, allowing a safe space to exhale the negative and create room to make positive changes. While working with clients from a variety of backgrounds, I specialize in topics and goals related to perinatal/maternal mental health, parenthood, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Supportive and Client Centered Therapy.
(424) 484-0670 View (424) 484-0670
Photo of Iris Cruet-Rubio, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Iris Cruet-Rubio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90248
Ready to Rewrite Your Story? Let's Begin Together! Are you struggling with past trauma? As a trauma therapist, I specialize in guiding individuals towards healing and resilience in a safe and supportive environment. I offer compassionate support to help you reclaim your power and rebuild your life. Let's embark on this journey together. Together, we'll navigate through your pain, uncover your strengths, and create a path towards healing, transformation, and a brighter future. Contact me now to take the first step towards reclaiming your life and rewriting your story!
Ready to Rewrite Your Story? Let's Begin Together! Are you struggling with past trauma? As a trauma therapist, I specialize in guiding individuals towards healing and resilience in a safe and supportive environment. I offer compassionate support to help you reclaim your power and rebuild your life. Let's embark on this journey together. Together, we'll navigate through your pain, uncover your strengths, and create a path towards healing, transformation, and a brighter future. Contact me now to take the first step towards reclaiming your life and rewriting your story!
(310) 634-0677 View (310) 634-0677
Photo of Robenson Dorvil, MA, AMFT128, Pre-Licensed Professional
Robenson Dorvil
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT128
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90249
Mr. Robenson Dorvil is a Psy. D. candidate at The Chicago School who practices individual and family therapy under his supervisors for almost 4 years, specializing working with couple, children and adolescents. He provides school-based counseling, group session and support services for many children in elementary, middle, and high school in the areas of Southern California. He works closely with his supervisors to provide support and treatment in developing behavior performance management for children in academic, social, emotional and other personal issues. He is diligent, great listener, and patient in working with clients.
Mr. Robenson Dorvil is a Psy. D. candidate at The Chicago School who practices individual and family therapy under his supervisors for almost 4 years, specializing working with couple, children and adolescents. He provides school-based counseling, group session and support services for many children in elementary, middle, and high school in the areas of Southern California. He works closely with his supervisors to provide support and treatment in developing behavior performance management for children in academic, social, emotional and other personal issues. He is diligent, great listener, and patient in working with clients.
(818) 403-3193 View (818) 403-3193
Photo of Karina Morales, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karina Morales
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90249
My name is Karina Morales and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in the Latino/a Communities from Pepperdine University. I have experience in working in community-based outpatients, and detention settings. I have a passion for working with others and assisting them in re-writing their stories and utilizing necessary coping skills to evolve during difficult times. My specialty areas include depression, anxiety, abuse, neglect, trauma, adjustment issues, divorce and separation, stress management, personal growth, coping skills, and so much more!
My name is Karina Morales and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in the Latino/a Communities from Pepperdine University. I have experience in working in community-based outpatients, and detention settings. I have a passion for working with others and assisting them in re-writing their stories and utilizing necessary coping skills to evolve during difficult times. My specialty areas include depression, anxiety, abuse, neglect, trauma, adjustment issues, divorce and separation, stress management, personal growth, coping skills, and so much more!
(657) 259-9404 View (657) 259-9404
Photo of Lyniece Diggs, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lyniece Diggs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90247
Hi there, My name is Lyniece Diggs, LMFT. Let's get real, I am a people-first therapist, and judgments are out the window. We all have a story, come from a variety of backgrounds, and have different needs. Let's work together to discover yours and what works for YOU. Life is wild, isn't it?! Sometimes you're overwhelmed, sometimes underwhelmed, and other times you feel numb. Relationship and family issues, work life, anxiety and depression, self-esteem. How are we supposed to balance all of this?
Hi there, My name is Lyniece Diggs, LMFT. Let's get real, I am a people-first therapist, and judgments are out the window. We all have a story, come from a variety of backgrounds, and have different needs. Let's work together to discover yours and what works for YOU. Life is wild, isn't it?! Sometimes you're overwhelmed, sometimes underwhelmed, and other times you feel numb. Relationship and family issues, work life, anxiety and depression, self-esteem. How are we supposed to balance all of this?
(805) 819-5031 View (805) 819-5031
Photo of Evelyn Serna-Balderas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evelyn Serna-Balderas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90247
Hi I’m Evelyn Serna-Balderas. I am a licensed clinical social Worker who appreciates and is motivated in working with individuals to navigate through challenges and experience growth in their journey. I have had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of clients ranging from children to older adults. I often engage clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, difficulty in life transitions, bipolar diagnosis, BPD, and dual diagnosis.
Hi I’m Evelyn Serna-Balderas. I am a licensed clinical social Worker who appreciates and is motivated in working with individuals to navigate through challenges and experience growth in their journey. I have had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of clients ranging from children to older adults. I often engage clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, difficulty in life transitions, bipolar diagnosis, BPD, and dual diagnosis.
(858) 723-0590 View (858) 723-0590
1
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.