LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in La Costa, CA

Photo of Jessica Cooper, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Costa, CA 92009
I have experience addressing depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, substance abuse, relationship issues, identity discovery, LGBTQ+, divorce, parenting, and couples.
Taking the steps to explore therapy can be vulnerable and intimidating. Finding a therapist you connect with is key. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in the Carlsbad area. My goal is to foster an open, trusting, non-judgmental, and collaborative environment in which clients can feel comfortable to express themselves. My passion is rooted in assisting clients through their journey to achieve goals, find fulfillment, and explore themselves in a safe and caring space. I have a client-centered and integrative approach to therapy, utilizing therapeutic modalities which best fit a client and their needs.
I have experience addressing depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, substance abuse, relationship issues, identity discovery, LGBTQ+, divorce, parenting, and couples.
Taking the steps to explore therapy can be vulnerable and intimidating. Finding a therapist you connect with is key. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in the Carlsbad area. My goal is to foster an open, trusting, non-judgmental, and collaborative environment in which clients can feel comfortable to express themselves. My passion is rooted in assisting clients through their journey to achieve goals, find fulfillment, and explore themselves in a safe and caring space. I have a client-centered and integrative approach to therapy, utilizing therapeutic modalities which best fit a client and their needs.
(442) 239-6702 View (442) 239-6702
Photo of Dr. Hilary Stokes Brainspotting Therapist, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Hilary Stokes Brainspotting Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Costa, CA 92009  (Online Only)
Whether you are dealing with an unexpected change, trauma, anxiety, health challenge, relationship stress, depression or other mental health issue, having a trusted guide on the path can make all the difference. Over the past 25 years I have found mind body therapies get to the root of where we get stuck and allow for positive change.
Whether you are dealing with an unexpected change, trauma, anxiety, health challenge, relationship stress, depression or other mental health issue, having a trusted guide on the path can make all the difference. Over the past 25 years I have found mind body therapies get to the root of where we get stuck and allow for positive change.
(619) 819-6841 View (619) 819-6841
Photo of Kim Lottes, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Lottes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Costa, CA 92009  (Online Only)
I take people on a journey of initiation and reclamation to remember their true essence. My own path has involved listening within and following my heart's guidance. This allows me to offer a unique perspective aimed at healing and stepping into your wholeness. I received my master's degree in Counseling Psychology from University of San Francisco and have over ten years of experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse issues, and life transitions.
I take people on a journey of initiation and reclamation to remember their true essence. My own path has involved listening within and following my heart's guidance. This allows me to offer a unique perspective aimed at healing and stepping into your wholeness. I received my master's degree in Counseling Psychology from University of San Francisco and have over ten years of experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse issues, and life transitions.
(760) 993-3678 View (760) 993-3678
Photo of Dr. Nastassia Riser, MS, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Nastassia Riser
Psychologist, MS, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Costa, CA 92009
Dr. Riser has over 10 years of experience providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and various other evidence-based approaches for the treatment of mood, anxiety, and personality disorders with special interest in emotion regulation, self-harm, and suicidality. Dr. Riser is an integrative psychologist, utilizing science-based interventions while also taking a holistic, mind + body, indivualized approach to treatment. Dr. Riser earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago Medical School/RFUMS with a concentration in psychopathology.
Dr. Riser has over 10 years of experience providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and various other evidence-based approaches for the treatment of mood, anxiety, and personality disorders with special interest in emotion regulation, self-harm, and suicidality. Dr. Riser is an integrative psychologist, utilizing science-based interventions while also taking a holistic, mind + body, indivualized approach to treatment. Dr. Riser earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago Medical School/RFUMS with a concentration in psychopathology.
(760) 280-7340 View (760) 280-7340
Photo of Sarah Vita, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah Vita
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Costa, CA 92011
You deserve to live a life filled with peace, joy, and authenticity, and I'm honored to have the opportunity to walk alongside you as you embark on this transformation journey.
Taking the first step towards therapy can feel daunting, but know that you're not alone in this journey. As an EMDR-trained therapist who prioritizes the mind-body connection, I understand the complexities of your experiences and the profound impact they can have on your well-being. I want you to feel seen, heard and understood in our sessions. Together, we'll explore your thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, recognizing the interconnectedness between your mind and body. My experiences include working with individuals, families and couples with anxiety, trauma, life transitions, poor self-esteem and relational concerns.
You deserve to live a life filled with peace, joy, and authenticity, and I'm honored to have the opportunity to walk alongside you as you embark on this transformation journey.
Taking the first step towards therapy can feel daunting, but know that you're not alone in this journey. As an EMDR-trained therapist who prioritizes the mind-body connection, I understand the complexities of your experiences and the profound impact they can have on your well-being. I want you to feel seen, heard and understood in our sessions. Together, we'll explore your thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, recognizing the interconnectedness between your mind and body. My experiences include working with individuals, families and couples with anxiety, trauma, life transitions, poor self-esteem and relational concerns.
(760) 615-3376 View (760) 615-3376
Photo of Amy J Cubbison - EMDR Encinitad, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
EMDR Encinitad
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Costa, CA 92009
Has the pandemic negatively affected your mental health, relationships or addiction? If so, you are not alone and I’m here to help. I am a true believer that we shouldn't wait until things get really bad in order to seek help and tending to our emotional needs is just as important as taking care of our physical health. My work experience includes working in hospice and palliative care, addiction recovery centers as well as private practice, so I have had the opportunity to work with people from all walks of life at different stages in their lives. My approach is client-centered, I utilize various modalities, adapting to each person.
Has the pandemic negatively affected your mental health, relationships or addiction? If so, you are not alone and I’m here to help. I am a true believer that we shouldn't wait until things get really bad in order to seek help and tending to our emotional needs is just as important as taking care of our physical health. My work experience includes working in hospice and palliative care, addiction recovery centers as well as private practice, so I have had the opportunity to work with people from all walks of life at different stages in their lives. My approach is client-centered, I utilize various modalities, adapting to each person.
(760) 350-3427 View (760) 350-3427

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Annissa Crow, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Annissa Crow
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92404  (Online Only)
I have experience working with issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, trauma, racial identity, LGBTQIA+, and gender-expansive concerns.
My name is Annissa, my pronouns are she/they, and I am an AMFT with Diaspora Therapy Group. My work centers on affirmation, empowerment, and celebration of intersectionality. Many clients have come into therapy seeking someone who can resonate with the feeling of being forgotten, misunderstood, or told that they are both “too much” and “not enough”. In our work together, clients and I explore all aspects of their identity while navigating and acknowledging challenges faced through systemic issues. Together we can collaborate to foster a safer space to authentically work, talk, and feel without fear of judgment.
I have experience working with issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, trauma, racial identity, LGBTQIA+, and gender-expansive concerns.
My name is Annissa, my pronouns are she/they, and I am an AMFT with Diaspora Therapy Group. My work centers on affirmation, empowerment, and celebration of intersectionality. Many clients have come into therapy seeking someone who can resonate with the feeling of being forgotten, misunderstood, or told that they are both “too much” and “not enough”. In our work together, clients and I explore all aspects of their identity while navigating and acknowledging challenges faced through systemic issues. Together we can collaborate to foster a safer space to authentically work, talk, and feel without fear of judgment.
(760) 973-2034 View (760) 973-2034
Photo of Sunni Meador, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sunni Meador
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92406  (Online Only)
My specialty communities are queer and transfolks, BIPOC and those who have been working with anxiety, and depression.
Hello and Welcome! I am Sunni Meador (They/them) and I am a Queer Associate Clinical Social Worker. I am very passionate about alternative forms of self and community care. I have been working in the mental health field for three years and in the non-profit health sector for eight. Our clinical work together is a collaborative practice that we work on together. It requires willingness and boundary setting. We also define our own set of rules for the relationship so we may talk or navigate though uncomfortable topics.
My specialty communities are queer and transfolks, BIPOC and those who have been working with anxiety, and depression.
Hello and Welcome! I am Sunni Meador (They/them) and I am a Queer Associate Clinical Social Worker. I am very passionate about alternative forms of self and community care. I have been working in the mental health field for three years and in the non-profit health sector for eight. Our clinical work together is a collaborative practice that we work on together. It requires willingness and boundary setting. We also define our own set of rules for the relationship so we may talk or navigate though uncomfortable topics.
(951) 723-9630 View (951) 723-9630
Photo of Simone McGee, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Simone McGee
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Bernardino, CA 92401  (Online Only)
My passion is working with BIPOC, the LGBTQIA+ community, marital affairs, family conflicts, parent coaching, and at-risk youth.
Kumusta! I am happy that you are here and ready to grow into the new you! It is time to reclaim your power back and be proud. I primarily focus on mindfulness in the therapy room and helping you learn to trust your intuition to make healthy and positive decisions. I will guide you on how to communicate with others and be emotionally expressive. I utilize a range of resources from activities in the therapy room to ground yourself, couple's activities to strengthen your relationship, family therapy conflict resolutions, positive affirmation work, or assigning homework to do outside of the therapy room to ensure change is happening.
My passion is working with BIPOC, the LGBTQIA+ community, marital affairs, family conflicts, parent coaching, and at-risk youth.
Kumusta! I am happy that you are here and ready to grow into the new you! It is time to reclaim your power back and be proud. I primarily focus on mindfulness in the therapy room and helping you learn to trust your intuition to make healthy and positive decisions. I will guide you on how to communicate with others and be emotionally expressive. I utilize a range of resources from activities in the therapy room to ground yourself, couple's activities to strengthen your relationship, family therapy conflict resolutions, positive affirmation work, or assigning homework to do outside of the therapy room to ensure change is happening.
(909) 316-8094 View (909) 316-8094
Photo of Chase Uribe, MSW, ASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chase Uribe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Bernardino, CA 92401
Hi! My name is Chase Uribe. I see people in-person in our office, in parks & nature & telehealth anywhere in CA. I provide therapy to youth, adults of all ages for individual therapy & couples/relationships for counseling/therapy & marital counseling. My experience includes supporting people with anxiety, depression, grief & loss, PTSD, suicidal ideation/thoughts & trauma. My experience includes supporting people of diverse communities including LGBTQ+, Disabilities, DACA, Immigrant, Women, People with Cancer, Firefighters, Law Enforcement & HR Professionals. I provide Gender Affirming Care Letters, ESA Letters, RA Letters & more.
Hi! My name is Chase Uribe. I see people in-person in our office, in parks & nature & telehealth anywhere in CA. I provide therapy to youth, adults of all ages for individual therapy & couples/relationships for counseling/therapy & marital counseling. My experience includes supporting people with anxiety, depression, grief & loss, PTSD, suicidal ideation/thoughts & trauma. My experience includes supporting people of diverse communities including LGBTQ+, Disabilities, DACA, Immigrant, Women, People with Cancer, Firefighters, Law Enforcement & HR Professionals. I provide Gender Affirming Care Letters, ESA Letters, RA Letters & more.
(909) 281-7619 View (909) 281-7619
Photo of Sara Vazquez-Cutler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Vazquez-Cutler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92410
Hello, my name is Sara Vazquez-Cutler, and I am a first-generation Latina. My pronouns are she/her/they and I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my Master's of Science in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling through CSU Fresno. I have been working in the psychotherapy field for the past 5 years as an MFT trainee, registered associate MFT, and now as a Licensed MFT. I view therapy as a collaborative approach between you and me working toward the same goals.
Hello, my name is Sara Vazquez-Cutler, and I am a first-generation Latina. My pronouns are she/her/they and I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my Master's of Science in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling through CSU Fresno. I have been working in the psychotherapy field for the past 5 years as an MFT trainee, registered associate MFT, and now as a Licensed MFT. I view therapy as a collaborative approach between you and me working toward the same goals.
(925) 320-3735 View (925) 320-3735
Photo of Ricardo Martinez, CP, Psychologist
Ricardo Martinez
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92405
I specialize in serving clients from diverse multicultural backgrounds including those from the LGBTQ+ community.
Hi there, I'm Dr. Rick. My name is Dr. Ricardo (Rick) Martinez and I am a Licensed Psychologist based in Pasadena, CA and working with clients across California via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in helping clients who struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, those with alcohol and/or substance abuse issues, their family members, and those in recovery. I also specialize in serving clients from diverse multicultural backgrounds including those from the LGBTQ+ community.
I specialize in serving clients from diverse multicultural backgrounds including those from the LGBTQ+ community.
Hi there, I'm Dr. Rick. My name is Dr. Ricardo (Rick) Martinez and I am a Licensed Psychologist based in Pasadena, CA and working with clients across California via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in helping clients who struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, those with alcohol and/or substance abuse issues, their family members, and those in recovery. I also specialize in serving clients from diverse multicultural backgrounds including those from the LGBTQ+ community.
(650) 955-0134 View (650) 955-0134
Photo of Michael Stample, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Stample
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92405
Hello, I'm Michael F. Stample, PhD, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I work extensively with individual adults, couples and families. My primary expertise is in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, dual diagnosis, LGBTQ+ and transgender healthcare. I mostly work with adults over age 17 or 18, through the later years. While psychiatric diagnoses have their uses, I prefer to see my clients as dealing with "problems of living." I work comfortably with psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and other evidence-based therapies. My early training included internship at the Jung Institute of Los Angeles.
Hello, I'm Michael F. Stample, PhD, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I work extensively with individual adults, couples and families. My primary expertise is in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, dual diagnosis, LGBTQ+ and transgender healthcare. I mostly work with adults over age 17 or 18, through the later years. While psychiatric diagnoses have their uses, I prefer to see my clients as dealing with "problems of living." I work comfortably with psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and other evidence-based therapies. My early training included internship at the Jung Institute of Los Angeles.
(415) 639-5417 View (415) 639-5417
Photo of Colleen Nomsa Chali - Bridge Vision Licensed Clinical Social Worker Inc, PsyD, LCSW, MSW, BA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridge Vision Licensed Clinical Social Worker Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, MSW, BA
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92401
Bridge Vision is a group practice and includes therapists/practitioners with combined experience of more than 70 years. They bring to the practice expertise in providing individual and family therapy, case management, mental health assessments, couples therapy, child development assessments, sexual orientation therapy, Dialectical Behavior therapy and LGBTQ counseling, forensic evaluations, PTSD and other psychological assessments, grief/loss counseling, neuro-psych assessments, addictive behavior counseling, crisis counseling and play therapy.
Bridge Vision is a group practice and includes therapists/practitioners with combined experience of more than 70 years. They bring to the practice expertise in providing individual and family therapy, case management, mental health assessments, couples therapy, child development assessments, sexual orientation therapy, Dialectical Behavior therapy and LGBTQ counseling, forensic evaluations, PTSD and other psychological assessments, grief/loss counseling, neuro-psych assessments, addictive behavior counseling, crisis counseling and play therapy.
(909) 300-8245 View (909) 300-8245
Photo of Raymond Zamudio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Raymond Zamudio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92404
Hello, my name is Ray Zamudio. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist since 2008. My approach to therapy is being present with my clients to use my skills and knowledge to provide relief to what is troubling them. The focus areas of my practice are depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Hello, my name is Ray Zamudio. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist since 2008. My approach to therapy is being present with my clients to use my skills and knowledge to provide relief to what is troubling them. The focus areas of my practice are depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
(760) 493-7913 View (760) 493-7913
Photo of Audrey R Sarto - Inspiration Point Counseling, Inc., MSW, ACSW
Inspiration Point Counseling, Inc.
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92403  (Online Only)
I have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care.
I think one of the most beautiful aspects about life is the human capacity to heal and grow from life’s challenges. I am passionate about working with individuals who have been disempowered by society, with an emphasis on life transitions, grief, childhood trauma, intergenerational trauma, family of origin issues, depression, anxiety, sexuality, gender, non-monogamy, body-image issues, oppression, and relational challenges. I offer an open-minded, easy-going, and supportive approach to help you navigate through life's stressors and find purpose in your life.
I have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care.
I think one of the most beautiful aspects about life is the human capacity to heal and grow from life’s challenges. I am passionate about working with individuals who have been disempowered by society, with an emphasis on life transitions, grief, childhood trauma, intergenerational trauma, family of origin issues, depression, anxiety, sexuality, gender, non-monogamy, body-image issues, oppression, and relational challenges. I offer an open-minded, easy-going, and supportive approach to help you navigate through life's stressors and find purpose in your life.
(805) 429-8732 View (805) 429-8732
Photo of Oscar Collins - C&C Center For Healing , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
C&C Center For Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Bernardino, CA 92401
Due to current events around COVID 19 I am offering Telehealth sessions. My passion to work with people started when I was placed into foster care at 15. It was during this time I realized how life experiences can change and drive our moods and behaviors. Trauma impacts and influences everyone and can alter the way we perceive and interact with people and the world. I will empower my client's to address their past traumatic events and begin to heal themselves through therapy. I believe that everyone has resilience within them and with the right support, client's are able to take back control of their lives.
Due to current events around COVID 19 I am offering Telehealth sessions. My passion to work with people started when I was placed into foster care at 15. It was during this time I realized how life experiences can change and drive our moods and behaviors. Trauma impacts and influences everyone and can alter the way we perceive and interact with people and the world. I will empower my client's to address their past traumatic events and begin to heal themselves through therapy. I believe that everyone has resilience within them and with the right support, client's are able to take back control of their lives.
(909) 323-0458 View (909) 323-0458
Photo of Crystal Britt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Britt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Bernardino, CA 92401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I know what it's like to wonder if you're broken. You're feeling confused, frustrated, angry, and at war with yourself. I know you feel anxious all the time. That finding a direction for yourself is hard, because of the self-loathing that has become so normal for you, you don't even notice it half the time. I know that you know you "should" be accepting of your body and who you are, but you have tried in a million different ways and don't know how. So you get one more iced coffee; stay a little longer at work; binge that comfort show one more time, in an attempt to stave off the loneliness and pain.
I know what it's like to wonder if you're broken. You're feeling confused, frustrated, angry, and at war with yourself. I know you feel anxious all the time. That finding a direction for yourself is hard, because of the self-loathing that has become so normal for you, you don't even notice it half the time. I know that you know you "should" be accepting of your body and who you are, but you have tried in a million different ways and don't know how. So you get one more iced coffee; stay a little longer at work; binge that comfort show one more time, in an attempt to stave off the loneliness and pain.
(951) 414-3880 View (951) 414-3880
Photo of Bruce Emerson, LMFT, RN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bruce Emerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RN
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92401  (Online Only)
The harder we try to ignore uncomfortable feelings, the worse they get. I will help you learn practical skills that can help you unhook yourself from anxiety, codependency, and other difficult thoughts, feelings, behaviors, or addictions. You will learn how to reduce their impact and remove their power so they can't push you around, hold you back, or bring you down. You should know there is hope for a better tomorrow, and I can help. For a free 15-minute consultation, call me at (909) 359-7456.
The harder we try to ignore uncomfortable feelings, the worse they get. I will help you learn practical skills that can help you unhook yourself from anxiety, codependency, and other difficult thoughts, feelings, behaviors, or addictions. You will learn how to reduce their impact and remove their power so they can't push you around, hold you back, or bring you down. You should know there is hope for a better tomorrow, and I can help. For a free 15-minute consultation, call me at (909) 359-7456.
(909) 359-7456 View (909) 359-7456
Photo of Tina Besimanto - Clarity Family Therapy Services, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Clarity Family Therapy Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Bernardino, CA 92401
Are you suffering from co-dependency, stress, resentment, relationship issues? We offer wide range of therapy to help with many issues including stress, relationship issues, or deep trauma through our EMDR Treatments. Each therapist has a unique specialty including including couples, families, and child therapy. We offer a safe space, both telehealth and in person sessions, to process what you are struggling with and improve your life. Our group specializes in creating healthy relationships, working through anxiety, depression, getting "unstuck," working through addictions, and healing from trauma.
Are you suffering from co-dependency, stress, resentment, relationship issues? We offer wide range of therapy to help with many issues including stress, relationship issues, or deep trauma through our EMDR Treatments. Each therapist has a unique specialty including including couples, families, and child therapy. We offer a safe space, both telehealth and in person sessions, to process what you are struggling with and improve your life. Our group specializes in creating healthy relationships, working through anxiety, depression, getting "unstuck," working through addictions, and healing from trauma.
(818) 495-8986 View (818) 495-8986

See more therapy options for La Costa

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.