LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Lakewood, CA

Photo of Sydney Woodward, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sydney Woodward
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712  (Online Only)
As a therapist I primarily work with individuals and couples around relationships, intimacy, self esteem, and self worth. Many of my clients are struggling with depression, anxiety, and concerns about self esteem and body image. I use a feminist lens in my work, meaning that I understand our mental health in the context of the oppressive systems and social constructs that impact us, such as race, sexual orientation, and gender. The majority of my clients are women, women of color, and/or members of the LGBTQ+ community. I especially welcoming queer, polyamorous, and kinky individuals and couples to reach out!
As a therapist I primarily work with individuals and couples around relationships, intimacy, self esteem, and self worth. Many of my clients are struggling with depression, anxiety, and concerns about self esteem and body image. I use a feminist lens in my work, meaning that I understand our mental health in the context of the oppressive systems and social constructs that impact us, such as race, sexual orientation, and gender. The majority of my clients are women, women of color, and/or members of the LGBTQ+ community. I especially welcoming queer, polyamorous, and kinky individuals and couples to reach out!
(310) 591-3156 View (310) 591-3156
Photo of James Green, LMFT, MSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
James Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90713  (Online Only)
I have 9 years of clinical experience, working mainly with queer and trans youth of color.
Are you and your partner(s) looking for counseling? Whether due to stress outside the relationship, wanting to feel closer to each other, or repairing a rupture from cheating, I can support you through your relationship journey. As a marriage and family therapist, I firmly believe in the transformative power of relationships, but that doesn’t mean they are easy to navigate alone. Every relationship orientation is welcome: monogamous or nonmonogamous. While my practice focuses on queer partners, I'm also happy to work with queer people of color for one-on-one therapy. I’m an ideal therapist for folks new to/scared about therapy.
I have 9 years of clinical experience, working mainly with queer and trans youth of color.
Are you and your partner(s) looking for counseling? Whether due to stress outside the relationship, wanting to feel closer to each other, or repairing a rupture from cheating, I can support you through your relationship journey. As a marriage and family therapist, I firmly believe in the transformative power of relationships, but that doesn’t mean they are easy to navigate alone. Every relationship orientation is welcome: monogamous or nonmonogamous. While my practice focuses on queer partners, I'm also happy to work with queer people of color for one-on-one therapy. I’m an ideal therapist for folks new to/scared about therapy.
(310) 421-0494 View (310) 421-0494
Photo of Ami-Ray Camarena, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ami-Ray Camarena
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712  (Online Only)
I am a Mexican-American, trans and non-binary, queer, neurodivergent therapist whose hair is constantly changing every month.
Authenticity, language, and empathy are the three tenants in my therapeutic work. Our lived experiences shape the way we interact with others and, as a result, old patterns may resurface. By creating dialogue in the room, my clients and I are able to foster a space for healing work to begin. As a growth-oriented clinician, I value the growth that comes from the therapeutic process and want to empower my clients to be the change they wish to experience in their lives.
I am a Mexican-American, trans and non-binary, queer, neurodivergent therapist whose hair is constantly changing every month.
Authenticity, language, and empathy are the three tenants in my therapeutic work. Our lived experiences shape the way we interact with others and, as a result, old patterns may resurface. By creating dialogue in the room, my clients and I are able to foster a space for healing work to begin. As a growth-oriented clinician, I value the growth that comes from the therapeutic process and want to empower my clients to be the change they wish to experience in their lives.
(310) 361-4911 View (310) 361-4911
Photo of Zane (Susan) Walshe, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zane (Susan) Walshe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90711
I specialize in treating: LGBTQIA+ Community, Alcoholism and Addictions, Relationship Issues, Couples Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD/Trauma: (Mental, Emotional, Physical, Sexual Abuse).
I am a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist in private practice in Long Beach, California working with individuals, couples, and families. As a Transmasculine person who uses the pronouns they/them/theirs, I am especially qualified and passionate about working with folks in the LGBTQIA+ Community and their allies. An eclectic therapist focused on the healing arts utilizing a wide variety of theories and techniques including Mindfulness, Somatic, Cognitive Behavioral, Existential and Gestalt to serve the diverse needs of my clients. I also supervise wonderful, skilled, and compassionate Associates who offer caring therapy on a scale.
I specialize in treating: LGBTQIA+ Community, Alcoholism and Addictions, Relationship Issues, Couples Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD/Trauma: (Mental, Emotional, Physical, Sexual Abuse).
I am a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist in private practice in Long Beach, California working with individuals, couples, and families. As a Transmasculine person who uses the pronouns they/them/theirs, I am especially qualified and passionate about working with folks in the LGBTQIA+ Community and their allies. An eclectic therapist focused on the healing arts utilizing a wide variety of theories and techniques including Mindfulness, Somatic, Cognitive Behavioral, Existential and Gestalt to serve the diverse needs of my clients. I also supervise wonderful, skilled, and compassionate Associates who offer caring therapy on a scale.
(562) 445-3729 View (562) 445-3729
Photo of Nasrin Farr, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nasrin Farr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90805
Hello, my name is Nasrin. For over a decade, I have had the privilege of working with adults, children/ adolescents, families, couples, LGBTQ, and Military/Veterans from a diverse population. What contributes to my work is the skill to utilize evidence-based therapies with the compassion and empathy needed to provide a therapeutic alliance.
Hello, my name is Nasrin. For over a decade, I have had the privilege of working with adults, children/ adolescents, families, couples, LGBTQ, and Military/Veterans from a diverse population. What contributes to my work is the skill to utilize evidence-based therapies with the compassion and empathy needed to provide a therapeutic alliance.
(323) 443-7274 View (323) 443-7274
Photo of Michelle Taylor, MS, LPCC
Michelle Taylor
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90712
LGBTQIA-affirming.
Accepting new clients/couples NOW- Online Video Therapy - Couples and individuals! I am a direct, tell-it-how-it-is therapist. I don't want you to be in therapy forever... we get straight to the root, do the work, get the skills you need and you become your own therapist. 8-10 sessions is the goal. If you're not ready to do the work, I'm not the therapist for you. But, if you're ready to step into courage and out of comfort, I'm ready to charge the storm with you. Couples like my straightforward approach, giving you the proven communication skills for healthier relationships. Do the hard, courageous thing and email me.
LGBTQIA-affirming.
Accepting new clients/couples NOW- Online Video Therapy - Couples and individuals! I am a direct, tell-it-how-it-is therapist. I don't want you to be in therapy forever... we get straight to the root, do the work, get the skills you need and you become your own therapist. 8-10 sessions is the goal. If you're not ready to do the work, I'm not the therapist for you. But, if you're ready to step into courage and out of comfort, I'm ready to charge the storm with you. Couples like my straightforward approach, giving you the proven communication skills for healthier relationships. Do the hard, courageous thing and email me.
(562) 317-7556 View (562) 317-7556
Photo of Pat Rodriguez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pat Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90712  (Online Only)
With over 25 years of experience working with adults, children, couples and families experiencing a variety of life's challenges, El Arco Iris Family Counseling Center can help you get back on track. I have extensive experience with adoptive parents, gay/lesbian parents, blended, step-families and couples of all kinds. I work with individuals dealing with life's stressors, feeling unbalanced or overwhelmed. I have a deep understanding of the life-long complications stemming from childhood abuse and ACA (adult child of alcoholics) issues. Issues that often cause recurring problems in relationships, parenting, and at work. Se habla espanol.
With over 25 years of experience working with adults, children, couples and families experiencing a variety of life's challenges, El Arco Iris Family Counseling Center can help you get back on track. I have extensive experience with adoptive parents, gay/lesbian parents, blended, step-families and couples of all kinds. I work with individuals dealing with life's stressors, feeling unbalanced or overwhelmed. I have a deep understanding of the life-long complications stemming from childhood abuse and ACA (adult child of alcoholics) issues. Issues that often cause recurring problems in relationships, parenting, and at work. Se habla espanol.
(424) 226-4894 View (424) 226-4894
Photo of S. Jolene Hui, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
S. Jolene Hui
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
I have years of experience working with those with addiction and substance use histories and those identifying as LGBTQ+.
Life is full of ups and downs - the first step in getting help is reaching out and I like to work with those who are open and willing to make the necessary changes for optimal happiness. I have experience with many different kinds of people struggling with their mental health issues - in particular those with addiction issues, mood disorders (including perinatal), psychotic disorders, and more. I love to work with those who are committed to bettering their mental health and improving their lives.
I have years of experience working with those with addiction and substance use histories and those identifying as LGBTQ+.
Life is full of ups and downs - the first step in getting help is reaching out and I like to work with those who are open and willing to make the necessary changes for optimal happiness. I have experience with many different kinds of people struggling with their mental health issues - in particular those with addiction issues, mood disorders (including perinatal), psychotic disorders, and more. I love to work with those who are committed to bettering their mental health and improving their lives.
(562) 210-0129 View (562) 210-0129
Photo of Khan Ramkeesoon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Khan Ramkeesoon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Khan. I'm a queer, non-binary licensed therapist originally from Trinidad & Tobago, now based in Long Beach, CA. I provide coaching with individuals and couples seeking to improve their connections with each other in relationships or deepen their spiritual connection with those who have passed away. I'm here to coach you through challenges and help you move forward.
Hi, I'm Khan. I'm a queer, non-binary licensed therapist originally from Trinidad & Tobago, now based in Long Beach, CA. I provide coaching with individuals and couples seeking to improve their connections with each other in relationships or deepen their spiritual connection with those who have passed away. I'm here to coach you through challenges and help you move forward.
(562) 662-8578 View (562) 662-8578
Photo of Brigitte Gisele Dutil, ATR, LPCC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brigitte Gisele Dutil
Marriage & Family Therapist, ATR, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90713  (Online Only)
The LGBT community continues to face prejudice.
Aspirations for personal growth and self-improvement can be succeeded. I provide a safe, compassionate, and nurturing environment to help clients feel better able to share their thoughts, fears, and goals. I believe that my clinical training, education, and community advocacy allow me to understand and support your needs.
The LGBT community continues to face prejudice.
Aspirations for personal growth and self-improvement can be succeeded. I provide a safe, compassionate, and nurturing environment to help clients feel better able to share their thoughts, fears, and goals. I believe that my clinical training, education, and community advocacy allow me to understand and support your needs.
(562) 507-1974 View (562) 507-1974
Photo of Karyn Harmon - Dr. Karyn Harmon, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Karyn Harmon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90713  (Online Only)
I specialize in the following areas- LGBTQIA couples and families, parenting, foster care, adoption and infertility.
I provide therapy to individuals, children, couples, and families to help them to find the best solutions to their problems. Whether you are looking to improve yourself, your relationships, or help others in your family, you will find my services to be supportive yet challenging enough to help reach your goals.
I specialize in the following areas- LGBTQIA couples and families, parenting, foster care, adoption and infertility.
I provide therapy to individuals, children, couples, and families to help them to find the best solutions to their problems. Whether you are looking to improve yourself, your relationships, or help others in your family, you will find my services to be supportive yet challenging enough to help reach your goals.
(424) 955-4137 View (424) 955-4137
Photo of Irene Lara - Irene Lara - Integrative Therapy, PsyD, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Irene Lara - Integrative Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90711
Issues: chronic illness, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ, child sexual abuse issues, suicidality, major transitions, grief, depression, anxiety and PTSD.
All is Possible, with Gentleness. -Todo es posible con paciencia.- I am so glad that you are making a big difference in your life. What a courageous and honorable decision. Would you like to call me? Let's have a conversation, & see if we are a good fit. Allow me to embark with you on this journey. Want better sleep? Oxygenate the body. Plus, Breath-Body-Mind meditation taught: Improve Creativity, have more internal Mental, Emotional, Financial Stability, increase Focus and concentration, eliminate trauma, improve Confidence and Relationships. Hope to speak soon. - - Favor de llamarme para tener una conversacion mas profunda.
Issues: chronic illness, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ, child sexual abuse issues, suicidality, major transitions, grief, depression, anxiety and PTSD.
All is Possible, with Gentleness. -Todo es posible con paciencia.- I am so glad that you are making a big difference in your life. What a courageous and honorable decision. Would you like to call me? Let's have a conversation, & see if we are a good fit. Allow me to embark with you on this journey. Want better sleep? Oxygenate the body. Plus, Breath-Body-Mind meditation taught: Improve Creativity, have more internal Mental, Emotional, Financial Stability, increase Focus and concentration, eliminate trauma, improve Confidence and Relationships. Hope to speak soon. - - Favor de llamarme para tener una conversacion mas profunda.
(323) 739-7975 View (323) 739-7975
Photo of Kyra M Mendoza-James, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Kyra M Mendoza-James
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712  (Online Only)
I am an experienced psychologist with over 12 years experience having worked with children, adults, families, couples, and LGBTQ individuals.
My mission in life and my personal passion as a Psychologist is to be of service to those navigating life’s most complex and difficult challenges in their day to day lives. That is why I am so excited about your decision to begin therapy. Sharing your life experiences is not made lightly and that is why I am always humbled to be apart of each new journey. We will work collaboratively throughout the process in navigating through the anxiety, depression, self-doubt, and other challenges keeping you from enjoying the life you envision.
I am an experienced psychologist with over 12 years experience having worked with children, adults, families, couples, and LGBTQ individuals.
My mission in life and my personal passion as a Psychologist is to be of service to those navigating life’s most complex and difficult challenges in their day to day lives. That is why I am so excited about your decision to begin therapy. Sharing your life experiences is not made lightly and that is why I am always humbled to be apart of each new journey. We will work collaboratively throughout the process in navigating through the anxiety, depression, self-doubt, and other challenges keeping you from enjoying the life you envision.
(562) 249-1757 View (562) 249-1757
Photo of Shelly Crosby, PsyD, Psychologist
Shelly Crosby
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90712
I welcome clients from all backgrounds and beliefs, and I particularly enjoy working with first responders/ military/ veterans and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Do memories of past traumas keep getting in the way of the life you want? Do you feel anxious, on-edge, and worried about the safety of yourself and/or your family? Do you try to hide your thoughts and feelings, because other people won't understand? Even though you're trying to manage it on your own, has your anger and isolation started to impact your relationships/family? If you feel this way and you are ready for a change, trauma-focused therapy can help you recover from the past and move forward with your future. Please know that it is possible to heal from trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder!
I welcome clients from all backgrounds and beliefs, and I particularly enjoy working with first responders/ military/ veterans and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Do memories of past traumas keep getting in the way of the life you want? Do you feel anxious, on-edge, and worried about the safety of yourself and/or your family? Do you try to hide your thoughts and feelings, because other people won't understand? Even though you're trying to manage it on your own, has your anger and isolation started to impact your relationships/family? If you feel this way and you are ready for a change, trauma-focused therapy can help you recover from the past and move forward with your future. Please know that it is possible to heal from trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder!
(562) 414-6629 View (562) 414-6629
Photo of Beth Sullivan, PsyD, Psychologist
Beth Sullivan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90805
Though I mostly identify as a "generalist" I do have specialized training working with LGBTQ+ populations.
It is not easy to recognize when you might need help, and even harder to reach out to others during difficult times. I am sensitive to the difficulty of the therapy process and do my best to honor each person individually. Being culturally sensitive and competent in meeting the diverse needs of all of my clients is one of my biggest values as a psychologist. I value social justice and this informs my work immensely.
Though I mostly identify as a "generalist" I do have specialized training working with LGBTQ+ populations.
It is not easy to recognize when you might need help, and even harder to reach out to others during difficult times. I am sensitive to the difficulty of the therapy process and do my best to honor each person individually. Being culturally sensitive and competent in meeting the diverse needs of all of my clients is one of my biggest values as a psychologist. I value social justice and this informs my work immensely.
(562) 733-3629 View (562) 733-3629
Photo of Stacey Rydell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stacey Rydell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90805
Hi! I am Stacey Rydell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has a passion for helping those on their healing journey to find more meaning in life. I focus primarily on working with LGBTQ+, women-identifying adults ages 18-40 years old. Much of my experience is treating anxiety, depression, Bipolar, gender identity, and disordered eating. Working with adults of all ages, I guide my clients toward their inner knowing that we are all born with but have lost contact with due to trauma, societal pressures, family dynamics, and much more.
Hi! I am Stacey Rydell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has a passion for helping those on their healing journey to find more meaning in life. I focus primarily on working with LGBTQ+, women-identifying adults ages 18-40 years old. Much of my experience is treating anxiety, depression, Bipolar, gender identity, and disordered eating. Working with adults of all ages, I guide my clients toward their inner knowing that we are all born with but have lost contact with due to trauma, societal pressures, family dynamics, and much more.
(661) 249-7923 View (661) 249-7923
Photo of Joseph Wing, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joseph Wing
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90805  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Joseph! I've been an LMFT for 15 years, helping people maneuver through life transitions and supporting them in reaching their self-defined goals. I have a history of working with BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) individuals in public health/agency settings and private practice. I have a history of working with minority populations (such as LGBTQ+) and helping them navigate the challenges of oppressive systems. I look forward to helping you feel good and supporting you in any desired life changes.
Hi there, I'm Joseph! I've been an LMFT for 15 years, helping people maneuver through life transitions and supporting them in reaching their self-defined goals. I have a history of working with BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) individuals in public health/agency settings and private practice. I have a history of working with minority populations (such as LGBTQ+) and helping them navigate the challenges of oppressive systems. I look forward to helping you feel good and supporting you in any desired life changes.
(916) 776-5137 View (916) 776-5137
Photo of Joanna Amenero - Cóndor Center Inc, MSW, LCSW, LPHA, RADT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cóndor Center Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LPHA, RADT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90712  (Online Only)
Hola, I am LCSW Joanna, a Peruvian therapist that grew up in the city of Cudahy. I am the founder of CONDOR CENTER, a group private practice made of BIPOC clinicians who share similar backgrounds, therapeutic approach and level of energy when providing services. In therapy my holistic and alternative approach is sex positive. I work with the LGBTQ+ population, the military and veteran community. I promote the importance of radical self-care and how this is what leads to emotional, mental, sexual and physical health. My specialty is working with survivors of trauma. I help individuals navigate ancestral healing, generational and
Hola, I am LCSW Joanna, a Peruvian therapist that grew up in the city of Cudahy. I am the founder of CONDOR CENTER, a group private practice made of BIPOC clinicians who share similar backgrounds, therapeutic approach and level of energy when providing services. In therapy my holistic and alternative approach is sex positive. I work with the LGBTQ+ population, the military and veteran community. I promote the importance of radical self-care and how this is what leads to emotional, mental, sexual and physical health. My specialty is working with survivors of trauma. I help individuals navigate ancestral healing, generational and
(323) 458-5750 View (323) 458-5750
Photo of Tamera Benedict - Abbeyfield Practice Management Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abbeyfield Practice Management Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90713
The clinicians at Abbeyfield serve the LGBT community, including issues such as sexual orientation (self or child), coming-out, gender identity, life transition, self empowerment and identity formation.
The clinicians at Abbeyfield provide a safe, compassionate, and nurturing environment to help clients better able to share their thoughts, fears, and goals. Through therapy, aspirations for personal growth and self-improvement can be achieved. People seek counseling for a wide range of reasons: difficulty sharing thoughts & feelings, negative feelings about oneself and/or others, lacking motivation or energy, difficulty focusing, increased family conflict, differences in parenting styles and many others. Our clinicians are ready to help you. Se Habla Espanol. Marque 40 cuando llamemos.
The clinicians at Abbeyfield serve the LGBT community, including issues such as sexual orientation (self or child), coming-out, gender identity, life transition, self empowerment and identity formation.
The clinicians at Abbeyfield provide a safe, compassionate, and nurturing environment to help clients better able to share their thoughts, fears, and goals. Through therapy, aspirations for personal growth and self-improvement can be achieved. People seek counseling for a wide range of reasons: difficulty sharing thoughts & feelings, negative feelings about oneself and/or others, lacking motivation or energy, difficulty focusing, increased family conflict, differences in parenting styles and many others. Our clinicians are ready to help you. Se Habla Espanol. Marque 40 cuando llamemos.
(562) 731-0542 View (562) 731-0542
Photo of Manuel Fonseca, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Manuel Fonseca
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
CONGRATULATIONS on taking this step! This is the right time for you to make YOU a priority! I am committed to guiding you on how to improve your overall well-being. I have over 16 years of clinical experience assisting individuals, couples, and families with practical tools to help them manage & overcome difficulties in their lives – I am here to help YOU reach your absolute BEST potential.
CONGRATULATIONS on taking this step! This is the right time for you to make YOU a priority! I am committed to guiding you on how to improve your overall well-being. I have over 16 years of clinical experience assisting individuals, couples, and families with practical tools to help them manage & overcome difficulties in their lives – I am here to help YOU reach your absolute BEST potential.
(626) 604-0719 View (626) 604-0719
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.