LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Lawndale, CA
Rina Varughese is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2013. Rina has experience with pain management, anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ population, and works from relational attachment. Outside of work, Rina enjoys guitar, ballroom, circuit training, and gun ranges.
Rina Varughese is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2013. Rina has experience with pain management, anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ population, and works from relational attachment. Outside of work, Rina enjoys guitar, ballroom, circuit training, and gun ranges.
Dr. Phyllis E. Dworsky is a Psychologist in California who has been practicing since 1997. Dr. Dworsky offers both cognitive behavioral techniques to work toward goals and psychodynamic understanding as to what sabotages goals and triggers anxiety, depression, and anger. She also offers support and communication strategies for couples with a strong background in Gottman techniques. In her spare time, Dr. Dworsky enjoys hiking, yoga, poetry, and literature.
Dr. Phyllis E. Dworsky is a Psychologist in California who has been practicing since 1997. Dr. Dworsky offers both cognitive behavioral techniques to work toward goals and psychodynamic understanding as to what sabotages goals and triggers anxiety, depression, and anger. She also offers support and communication strategies for couples with a strong background in Gottman techniques. In her spare time, Dr. Dworsky enjoys hiking, yoga, poetry, and literature.
Need to improve your relationship with your children right now without bribes or stress? Do you and your partner argue over parenting styles? I've helped families raise thousands of children. There is nothing I haven't seen. I work with YOU to give you easy, proven tools. You need to be focused on your career: your job has its own stress points. Wouldn't it be nice to come home to calm? I can help that happen. Today can be different. Start now with my free 5 step guide to Happy Parenting. Try one of the tools today.
Need to improve your relationship with your children right now without bribes or stress? Do you and your partner argue over parenting styles? I've helped families raise thousands of children. There is nothing I haven't seen. I work with YOU to give you easy, proven tools. You need to be focused on your career: your job has its own stress points. Wouldn't it be nice to come home to calm? I can help that happen. Today can be different. Start now with my free 5 step guide to Happy Parenting. Try one of the tools today.
Trauma impacts every aspect of ones life. My practice centers on gaining mastery of past trauma via reprocessing past events in mind and body treatments. Life is too short to be stuck in sorrow or pain.
Trauma impacts every aspect of ones life. My practice centers on gaining mastery of past trauma via reprocessing past events in mind and body treatments. Life is too short to be stuck in sorrow or pain.
You are taking the first steps in creating change in your life. The pursuit of health, happiness, and healing are aspects that we all strive for, and that can be accelerated with additional support and insight oriented therapy. In addition to traditional approaches, such as psychodynamic approaches and cognitive behavioral interventions, I utilize mindfulness techniques, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have experience in treating a variety of condition, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Therapy can assist with stress and change of life issues, such as divorce, new parents, health issues, bereavement, or work/peer conflict.
You are taking the first steps in creating change in your life. The pursuit of health, happiness, and healing are aspects that we all strive for, and that can be accelerated with additional support and insight oriented therapy. In addition to traditional approaches, such as psychodynamic approaches and cognitive behavioral interventions, I utilize mindfulness techniques, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have experience in treating a variety of condition, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Therapy can assist with stress and change of life issues, such as divorce, new parents, health issues, bereavement, or work/peer conflict.
My ability to connect with and assist individuals is an accumulation of my professional education, life experiences and interest in people. I hold a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology as well as licensed as a Marriage, Family Therapist. I spent 22 years as a Physician Assistant in Family Practice and Industrial Medicine giving me a well rounded medical and psychological approach to therapy. I find that my clients solve their problems, heal their wounds and find direction under my care, which has given me a great sense of satisfaction over the last 20+ years.
My ability to connect with and assist individuals is an accumulation of my professional education, life experiences and interest in people. I hold a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology as well as licensed as a Marriage, Family Therapist. I spent 22 years as a Physician Assistant in Family Practice and Industrial Medicine giving me a well rounded medical and psychological approach to therapy. I find that my clients solve their problems, heal their wounds and find direction under my care, which has given me a great sense of satisfaction over the last 20+ years.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Sherlyn Johnson, LCSW. My therapeutic approach focuses on changing problematic behaviors, feelings, and thoughts by discovering their unconscious meanings and motivations. Patients learn about themselves by exploring their interactions in the therapeutic relationship. My most common theoretical approaches are, psycho dynamic therapy, behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy and cognitive therapy. Client focus are teenagers through late adulthood. Active listening and using silence.
Sherlyn Johnson, LCSW. My therapeutic approach focuses on changing problematic behaviors, feelings, and thoughts by discovering their unconscious meanings and motivations. Patients learn about themselves by exploring their interactions in the therapeutic relationship. My most common theoretical approaches are, psycho dynamic therapy, behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy and cognitive therapy. Client focus are teenagers through late adulthood. Active listening and using silence.
My name is Antoinette Babers. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals. I work with Individuals (children and adults), couples, and also families. I find myself working mostly with women, but I do work with men, children, and couples as well. I have worked with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma-related issues, personality disorders, those suffering from domestic violence issues, divorce, panic disorders, anger management, and attachment issues.
My name is Antoinette Babers. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals. I work with Individuals (children and adults), couples, and also families. I find myself working mostly with women, but I do work with men, children, and couples as well. I have worked with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma-related issues, personality disorders, those suffering from domestic violence issues, divorce, panic disorders, anger management, and attachment issues.
Ryann J. Walker is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) specializing in depression, anxiety, self-esteem, interpersonal conflict/relationships, life transitions, grief, and trauma. Ryann treats adults (18+). She utilizes a Holistic and Integrative Approach that encompasses Psychodynamic Theory and therapeutic approaches including but not limited to Person Centered, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Ryann has experience counseling adults, seniors, families, and couples in outpatient settings.
Ryann J. Walker is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) specializing in depression, anxiety, self-esteem, interpersonal conflict/relationships, life transitions, grief, and trauma. Ryann treats adults (18+). She utilizes a Holistic and Integrative Approach that encompasses Psychodynamic Theory and therapeutic approaches including but not limited to Person Centered, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Ryann has experience counseling adults, seniors, families, and couples in outpatient settings.
My name is Lauresha Z. Hawkins and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and mature adults while specializing in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, and stress. I use several modalities such as Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, to help aid clients in making progress toward mental and emotional healing.
My name is Lauresha Z. Hawkins and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and mature adults while specializing in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, and stress. I use several modalities such as Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, to help aid clients in making progress toward mental and emotional healing.
Therapy can seem different or intimidating at times, but it doesn’t have to be. My aim is to create a thoughtful connection and help reduce any apprehensions by maintaining a relaxed demeanor, displaying genuine interest, and continually striving for authenticity. The process of therapy can help individuals or couples become unstuck. We all experience patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Gaining insight into these patterns helps us discover where change is necessary. Enacting change is always up to the individual or couple, but my goal is to help you get there to take charge.
Therapy can seem different or intimidating at times, but it doesn’t have to be. My aim is to create a thoughtful connection and help reduce any apprehensions by maintaining a relaxed demeanor, displaying genuine interest, and continually striving for authenticity. The process of therapy can help individuals or couples become unstuck. We all experience patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Gaining insight into these patterns helps us discover where change is necessary. Enacting change is always up to the individual or couple, but my goal is to help you get there to take charge.
More Therapists Nearby
Ramona Benner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ identified folx, highly empathic or sensitive individuals (HSPs), and those who are dealing with the impacts of antagonistic or high-conflict individuals.
Life can feel overwhelming. Within a collaborative setting, we can explore ways to make life feel more manageable and, ultimately, more enjoyable. The quality of the therapeutic relationship itself has been shown to significantly influence treatment outcomes. My approach emphasizes authenticity and the idea that growth can happen while in a nourishing setting. I assist clients with developing sustainable coping strategies, uncovering patterns, and navigating relational dynamics. My goal is to help clients find realistic solutions within their unique circumstances.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ identified folx, highly empathic or sensitive individuals (HSPs), and those who are dealing with the impacts of antagonistic or high-conflict individuals.
Life can feel overwhelming. Within a collaborative setting, we can explore ways to make life feel more manageable and, ultimately, more enjoyable. The quality of the therapeutic relationship itself has been shown to significantly influence treatment outcomes. My approach emphasizes authenticity and the idea that growth can happen while in a nourishing setting. I assist clients with developing sustainable coping strategies, uncovering patterns, and navigating relational dynamics. My goal is to help clients find realistic solutions within their unique circumstances.
Marika Gonzalez Reznichek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90278 (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, LGBTQ+ identity, self-esteem, parent-child attachment, and foster care/adoption.
Life can feel overwhelming. An unexpected event can suddenly throw everything off balance, or many smaller stresses can build up and make it hard to cope with everyday tasks. Together we can explore your inner strengths and how to use them moving forward and find healing throughout the process. I am dedicated to social justice and believe that it’s important to find awareness of one’s resilience in the process of self-discovery and acceptance.
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, LGBTQ+ identity, self-esteem, parent-child attachment, and foster care/adoption.
Life can feel overwhelming. An unexpected event can suddenly throw everything off balance, or many smaller stresses can build up and make it hard to cope with everyday tasks. Together we can explore your inner strengths and how to use them moving forward and find healing throughout the process. I am dedicated to social justice and believe that it’s important to find awareness of one’s resilience in the process of self-discovery and acceptance.
Olivia Waldorf
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
My own clinical background is rooted in destigmatization, relationship work, trauma-informed care, queer identity and experience, as well as childhood trauma.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. As a therapist, I believe in the power of the statement "we can do hard things". You might be experiencing something that is making daily life exhausting, heavy, challenging, or more complicated than life can already be, so I'm grateful you've landed on my page. Something really special that I bring into the therapy space is artmaking and creative expression; as research shows, art is a powerful healing tool, so I use this creativity to help you navigate interpersonal dynamics, life changes, grief & loss, identity exploration, hard emotions, or to just be present with yourself in a world of noise.
My own clinical background is rooted in destigmatization, relationship work, trauma-informed care, queer identity and experience, as well as childhood trauma.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. As a therapist, I believe in the power of the statement "we can do hard things". You might be experiencing something that is making daily life exhausting, heavy, challenging, or more complicated than life can already be, so I'm grateful you've landed on my page. Something really special that I bring into the therapy space is artmaking and creative expression; as research shows, art is a powerful healing tool, so I use this creativity to help you navigate interpersonal dynamics, life changes, grief & loss, identity exploration, hard emotions, or to just be present with yourself in a world of noise.
Michael J McAtee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90278 (Online Only)
Michael is also deeply passionate about supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.
Michael McAtee provides virtual/online individual & couples therapy. Michael’s approach to treatment is a synthesis of several evidence-based modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic and family systems. He emphasizes the interconnection of mind, body, and spirit, as optimal healing and lasting change occur when our efforts are focused on the whole person including biological, psychological, social, and spiritual.
Michael is also deeply passionate about supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.
Michael McAtee provides virtual/online individual & couples therapy. Michael’s approach to treatment is a synthesis of several evidence-based modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic and family systems. He emphasizes the interconnection of mind, body, and spirit, as optimal healing and lasting change occur when our efforts are focused on the whole person including biological, psychological, social, and spiritual.
Monique Merritt Romick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Are you seeking a therapist who will meet you where you are and help you uncover the strength you already possess? I am a Black, queer therapist dedicated to providing client-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally attuned care for teens and adults. My practice is built on empathy, collaboration, and compassion. I believe in creating a safe, affirming space where you take the lead, and together, we work toward your personal goals.
Are you seeking a therapist who will meet you where you are and help you uncover the strength you already possess? I am a Black, queer therapist dedicated to providing client-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally attuned care for teens and adults. My practice is built on empathy, collaboration, and compassion. I believe in creating a safe, affirming space where you take the lead, and together, we work toward your personal goals.
Additionally, I'm incredibly passionate about LGBTQ wellness and love helping other gay and bisexual men thrive.
***All appointments must be requested through FrameworkPsych.com*** At some point in life, we all experience a moment when we question whether we're on the best path forward. Perhaps a relationship feels unfulfilling, we're not advancing in our career the way we'd hoped, or we're feeling unsure about a decision. Through years of specialized training in evidence-based psychoanalytic approaches, I've discovered how we can collaborate to help you create the life you want. Together, we'll unlock ways for you to feel happier, more balanced, and better connected to your authentic self and others.
Additionally, I'm incredibly passionate about LGBTQ wellness and love helping other gay and bisexual men thrive.
***All appointments must be requested through FrameworkPsych.com*** At some point in life, we all experience a moment when we question whether we're on the best path forward. Perhaps a relationship feels unfulfilling, we're not advancing in our career the way we'd hoped, or we're feeling unsure about a decision. Through years of specialized training in evidence-based psychoanalytic approaches, I've discovered how we can collaborate to help you create the life you want. Together, we'll unlock ways for you to feel happier, more balanced, and better connected to your authentic self and others.
Avery Garrett
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Waitlist for new clients
My expertise is in providing affirming care for queer, neurodivergent, and BIPOC clients who are grappling with OCD/anxiety, trauma, and relational issues.
Do you feel tortured by intrusive thoughts? Is your life ruled by a never-ending series of 'what-if's', each more horrifying than the last? You've been hiding your struggle behind a veil of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and other self-sacrificing behaviors, but it's getting exhausting. You're tired of the rituals, the constant reassurance seeking, and the disconnect you feel from your body and the humans around you. Trying to talk yourself out of a thought spiral only seems to make things worse and you're not sure how to move forward. It doesn't have to be like this! Recovery is within reach.
My expertise is in providing affirming care for queer, neurodivergent, and BIPOC clients who are grappling with OCD/anxiety, trauma, and relational issues.
Do you feel tortured by intrusive thoughts? Is your life ruled by a never-ending series of 'what-if's', each more horrifying than the last? You've been hiding your struggle behind a veil of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and other self-sacrificing behaviors, but it's getting exhausting. You're tired of the rituals, the constant reassurance seeking, and the disconnect you feel from your body and the humans around you. Trying to talk yourself out of a thought spiral only seems to make things worse and you're not sure how to move forward. It doesn't have to be like this! Recovery is within reach.
Jennifer Hackney: SoCal LGBT Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Jennifer and I hold a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology, with a specialization in LGBT-Affirmative Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles.
In an often unwelcoming world, it can be challenging for us to live authentically as LGBTQ+ people. Heteronormativity, cisnormativity, and homo/bi/transphobia can impact our sense of self, relationships, and quality of life. As an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, I aim to provide compassionate and affirming therapy for adults who are seeking support with sexual identity, gender identity, coming out, self-esteem, self-acceptance, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. I mindfully work to create an inviting space that respects, affirms, and values your identities and lived experiences.
Hi, I'm Jennifer and I hold a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology, with a specialization in LGBT-Affirmative Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles.
In an often unwelcoming world, it can be challenging for us to live authentically as LGBTQ+ people. Heteronormativity, cisnormativity, and homo/bi/transphobia can impact our sense of self, relationships, and quality of life. As an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, I aim to provide compassionate and affirming therapy for adults who are seeking support with sexual identity, gender identity, coming out, self-esteem, self-acceptance, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. I mindfully work to create an inviting space that respects, affirms, and values your identities and lived experiences.
See more therapy options for Lawndale
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Lawndale
- El Segundo
- Gardena
- Hawthorne
- Hermosa Beach
- Inglewood
- Manhattan Beach
- Playa Del Rey
- Redondo Beach
- Torrance
- View Park
- Westchester
- Windsor Hills
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.