LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Lemon Grove, CA

Photo of Kathryn Humphrey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Humphrey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lemon Grove, CA 91945  (Online Only)
I have experience with and am focused towards teens (14+), transitional age youth, adults, seniors, and the LGBTQ+ community.
It takes courage to take that first step and make an appointment. When we are feeling like we are alone with our challenges, the bravest thing we can do is take a chance on someone. When we meet I am already aware that you have done one of the most courageous things towards your own care that you can do. I offer a safe space and work with your timeline. "Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen." ~ Brene Brown.
I have experience with and am focused towards teens (14+), transitional age youth, adults, seniors, and the LGBTQ+ community.
It takes courage to take that first step and make an appointment. When we are feeling like we are alone with our challenges, the bravest thing we can do is take a chance on someone. When we meet I am already aware that you have done one of the most courageous things towards your own care that you can do. I offer a safe space and work with your timeline. "Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen." ~ Brene Brown.
(408) 831-3577 View (408) 831-3577
Photo of Trish Franzblau, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trish Franzblau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lemon Grove, CA 91945
I work with teens, young adults, adults and couples, as well as, the gay and lesbian population.
'It's never too late to have a happy childhood.' As a nurturing therapist, I believe my role is to provide support, guidance, and a SAFE place to share, vent, scream, cry, laugh or just sit quietly. I also believe it's not what happens to people that's most important, but what they do about it. Our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become. Though daunting, this realization can be extremely EMPOWERING--You are in charge of your life and your future happiness! With this knowledge, change can unfold.
I work with teens, young adults, adults and couples, as well as, the gay and lesbian population.
'It's never too late to have a happy childhood.' As a nurturing therapist, I believe my role is to provide support, guidance, and a SAFE place to share, vent, scream, cry, laugh or just sit quietly. I also believe it's not what happens to people that's most important, but what they do about it. Our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become. Though daunting, this realization can be extremely EMPOWERING--You are in charge of your life and your future happiness! With this knowledge, change can unfold.
(805) 214-8832 View (805) 214-8832
Ellen Jacobs
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lemon Grove, CA 91945
What is commonly referred to as "mental health" is not an absolute. During my 40 years of practice, I've come to think of psychotherapy/counseling as a combination of external focus (how we manage or cope in the world) and internal focus (what needs to be healed se we feel better about who we are). I would like to help you with either/both. My practice includes work with individuals as well as couples.
What is commonly referred to as "mental health" is not an absolute. During my 40 years of practice, I've come to think of psychotherapy/counseling as a combination of external focus (how we manage or cope in the world) and internal focus (what needs to be healed se we feel better about who we are). I would like to help you with either/both. My practice includes work with individuals as well as couples.
(858) 367-9408 View (858) 367-9408
Photo of Breffni Barrett, Psychologist
Breffni Barrett
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Lemon Grove, CA 91945
My approach to therapy is to meet with the person, couple or family, to assess the issues and see if we can problem solve together. Former clients have described me as warm, competent, compassionate and effective as a therapist. I have been licensed as a psychologist and marriage and family therapist for more than 30 years, and have served as an expert witness as a forensic psychologist. I have been trained in mediation and worked with family businesses. My service to my profession includes being President of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and Treasurer of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I believe we are here to help one another, and look forward to working with you.
My approach to therapy is to meet with the person, couple or family, to assess the issues and see if we can problem solve together. Former clients have described me as warm, competent, compassionate and effective as a therapist. I have been licensed as a psychologist and marriage and family therapist for more than 30 years, and have served as an expert witness as a forensic psychologist. I have been trained in mediation and worked with family businesses. My service to my profession includes being President of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and Treasurer of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I believe we are here to help one another, and look forward to working with you.
(619) 567-3749 View (619) 567-3749
Photo of Robin M Grossman, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin M Grossman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lemon Grove, CA 91945
You may be dealing with feelings of low self-esteem, depression or anxiety. You may find yourself repeating unwanted patterns in your work, relationships, or other aspects of your life. Perhaps you are struggling within your current intimate relationship, or are having difficulty finding a satisfying relationship.
You may be dealing with feelings of low self-esteem, depression or anxiety. You may find yourself repeating unwanted patterns in your work, relationships, or other aspects of your life. Perhaps you are struggling within your current intimate relationship, or are having difficulty finding a satisfying relationship.
(619) 377-8616 View (619) 377-8616
Photo of Bapsi Slali, PhD, Psychologist
Bapsi Slali
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lemon Grove, CA 91945
Waitlist for new clients
Having been in practice as a clinical psychologist for over 40 years in the San Diego community, I offer my clients the experience and wisdom that has been gathered over time. My personal belief is that each individual has a unique perspective that must be understood, and that every individual has the strength and ability to successfully address and resolve troubling issues.
Having been in practice as a clinical psychologist for over 40 years in the San Diego community, I offer my clients the experience and wisdom that has been gathered over time. My personal belief is that each individual has a unique perspective that must be understood, and that every individual has the strength and ability to successfully address and resolve troubling issues.
(858) 215-1956 View (858) 215-1956
Photo of Veronica D Martin-Parris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica D Martin-Parris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lemon Grove, CA 91945
Veronica Martin-Parris has been a licensed clinical social worker since 2006 and has over 25 years of experience in psychotherapy. She has undergraduate degree in Health Science with an Emphasis in Community Health and a Minor in African American Studies. Mrs. Parris also has a Masters degree in Social Work with a concentration in Administration and Health from San Diego State University. Find more information about her at www.purposevisiontherapy.com
Veronica Martin-Parris has been a licensed clinical social worker since 2006 and has over 25 years of experience in psychotherapy. She has undergraduate degree in Health Science with an Emphasis in Community Health and a Minor in African American Studies. Mrs. Parris also has a Masters degree in Social Work with a concentration in Administration and Health from San Diego State University. Find more information about her at www.purposevisiontherapy.com
(619) 345-5625 View (619) 345-5625
Photo of Lisa Marie Jellison, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Marie Jellison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lemon Grove, CA 91945  (Online Only)
All of my services are 100% online. Online therapy provides convenience, privacy and affordability all in one place. There are so many different types of situations or experiences that can create a need for therapy. You could be stressed and are having difficulty at work, you might realize that you have been feeling more “down” than usual or perhaps you are struggling with a difficult adjustment at home. Maybe your child is acting out and you aren't sure how to deal with it or you are going through a breakup or you moved to a new city. You also might want to improve your marriage and your friendships.
All of my services are 100% online. Online therapy provides convenience, privacy and affordability all in one place. There are so many different types of situations or experiences that can create a need for therapy. You could be stressed and are having difficulty at work, you might realize that you have been feeling more “down” than usual or perhaps you are struggling with a difficult adjustment at home. Maybe your child is acting out and you aren't sure how to deal with it or you are going through a breakup or you moved to a new city. You also might want to improve your marriage and your friendships.
(530) 285-5955 View (530) 285-5955
Photo of Cara Silva, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cara Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lemon Grove, CA 91945
My passion is to empower those that have not found their potential. We all have our own stories and experiences which makes us perfect candidates for success when we have the right support. Whether you have lived it, experienced it or witnessed it, the effects of trauma are devastating. Quit beating yourself up. It is time to heal. With 20 years experience in addiction and over 10 working with trauma, it is time to recover from the past, survive the present, and flourish into the future. It all starts with you.
My passion is to empower those that have not found their potential. We all have our own stories and experiences which makes us perfect candidates for success when we have the right support. Whether you have lived it, experienced it or witnessed it, the effects of trauma are devastating. Quit beating yourself up. It is time to heal. With 20 years experience in addiction and over 10 working with trauma, it is time to recover from the past, survive the present, and flourish into the future. It all starts with you.
(619) 304-0863 View (619) 304-0863
Drucilla A Ruocco
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lemon Grove, CA 91945
(619) 377-8546 View (619) 377-8546
Photo of Paul R Sussman, PhD, Psychologist
Paul R Sussman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lemon Grove, CA 91945
Not accepting new clients
My professional background includes working with Stress/anxiety, trauma/abuse, gay/ bisexual/heterosexual men, women and couples, and military culture.
Feeling good matters! I am a clinical psychologist and marriage family therapist with 30+ years of professional experience working with individuals, couples and groups close to Balboa Park, San Diego. I love psychology and my work. I specialize in the areas of intimacy and relationships, sexuality, self-esteem, trauma and coping, sexuality/sexual orientation, anxiety and mood. I work well with motivated, higher functioning individuals and couples committed to learning, growth and development. My style is direct, empathic and action-oriented.
My professional background includes working with Stress/anxiety, trauma/abuse, gay/ bisexual/heterosexual men, women and couples, and military culture.
Feeling good matters! I am a clinical psychologist and marriage family therapist with 30+ years of professional experience working with individuals, couples and groups close to Balboa Park, San Diego. I love psychology and my work. I specialize in the areas of intimacy and relationships, sexuality, self-esteem, trauma and coping, sexuality/sexual orientation, anxiety and mood. I work well with motivated, higher functioning individuals and couples committed to learning, growth and development. My style is direct, empathic and action-oriented.
(619) 663-5916 View (619) 663-5916

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Miranda Millican, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miranda Millican
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
Hi there, welcome! My specialty areas include trauma, relationships and body image issues. As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, my passions include working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and neurodivergent clients (ADHD, autism, PDA traits). As a neurodiversity affirming provider, I see all neurotypes as equal, and not an issue that needs "treatment". Rather, it is a process of finding your way back to yourself and who you really are. Additionally, I work with the ethical non-monogamy, polyamory, and kink/BDSM community. I work with individuals, teens, and couples and enjoy working with all relationship structures.
Hi there, welcome! My specialty areas include trauma, relationships and body image issues. As a queer and neurodivergent therapist, my passions include working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and neurodivergent clients (ADHD, autism, PDA traits). As a neurodiversity affirming provider, I see all neurotypes as equal, and not an issue that needs "treatment". Rather, it is a process of finding your way back to yourself and who you really are. Additionally, I work with the ethical non-monogamy, polyamory, and kink/BDSM community. I work with individuals, teens, and couples and enjoy working with all relationship structures.
(619) 367-9270 View (619) 367-9270
Photo of Alexis Smith - Queer Corner Counseling , LPCC, CPPD
Queer Corner Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CPPD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Hey there! I’m Alexis Smith, an LPCC from San Diego who’s passionate about supporting BIPOC adults within the LGBTQ+ community. As an openly queer therapist, I’m excited to support you within an affirming space to recognize, explore and accept your own queer identity and navigate the myriad of challenges that come along with queerness and being a POC. You can expect my approach to be rooted in CBT, to incorporate lots of humor, encourage you to express your feelings in the present moment, involve aspects of astrology, exploration of your attachment and inner child wounds and to be tailored to meet your specific needs.
Hey there! I’m Alexis Smith, an LPCC from San Diego who’s passionate about supporting BIPOC adults within the LGBTQ+ community. As an openly queer therapist, I’m excited to support you within an affirming space to recognize, explore and accept your own queer identity and navigate the myriad of challenges that come along with queerness and being a POC. You can expect my approach to be rooted in CBT, to incorporate lots of humor, encourage you to express your feelings in the present moment, involve aspects of astrology, exploration of your attachment and inner child wounds and to be tailored to meet your specific needs.
(619) 815-8618 View (619) 815-8618
Photo of Greg Piken, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Greg Piken
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91941
As a frequent speaker on LGBTQ+ self-acceptance and inclusion in the church, I’m honored when I get to work with fellow members of the community looking for an empathetic and judgement-free space.
If you could hit the “pause button” on the voice of fear, shame, anger, or addiction, what would you hear instead? Is it a desire to be loved and accepted for who you really are? Is it hope for a more fulfilling life with joy, rest, purpose, or creativity? Is it faith to believe that you can finally stop beating yourself up, make peace with your past, and make different decisions going forward? You’d be amazed how many people like you and me, have bravely faced their biggest questions in therapy, and found meaningful answers. Let’s see if that can be your story too!
As a frequent speaker on LGBTQ+ self-acceptance and inclusion in the church, I’m honored when I get to work with fellow members of the community looking for an empathetic and judgement-free space.
If you could hit the “pause button” on the voice of fear, shame, anger, or addiction, what would you hear instead? Is it a desire to be loved and accepted for who you really are? Is it hope for a more fulfilling life with joy, rest, purpose, or creativity? Is it faith to believe that you can finally stop beating yourself up, make peace with your past, and make different decisions going forward? You’d be amazed how many people like you and me, have bravely faced their biggest questions in therapy, and found meaningful answers. Let’s see if that can be your story too!
(619) 387-7427 View (619) 387-7427
Photo of Adrian Belmes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Adrian Belmes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92115  (Online Only)
My work is LGBTQ+ affirming, relationship diverse, trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink-aware, and from a harm-reduction perspective.
If you are searching for insight and depth, you’re in the right place. My name is Adrian (he/him), and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with transgender, gender non-conforming, and queer adults and teens. My practice is centered on supporting individuals facing questions of gender exploration, sexuality, identity formation, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict.
My work is LGBTQ+ affirming, relationship diverse, trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink-aware, and from a harm-reduction perspective.
If you are searching for insight and depth, you’re in the right place. My name is Adrian (he/him), and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with transgender, gender non-conforming, and queer adults and teens. My practice is centered on supporting individuals facing questions of gender exploration, sexuality, identity formation, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict.
(760) 477-4865 View (760) 477-4865
Photo of Christina Elizabeth Ames-Cotto - Hope, Growth & Healing Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hope, Growth & Healing Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92115  (Online Only)
I have 6 years of experience working with diverse populations with a multitude of different challenges; some of which include intergenerational trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence, relationship conflict, neurodiversity, LGBTQIA, and cultural identity.
Offer Telehealth Only - Life provides happiness as well as its share of challenges. I believe individuals and couples are capable of navigating life but sometimes need a little extra help and compassion. Therapy can be that place where a person can discuss, learn and work through any past or present challenges that may be getting in the way of living a happy and hopeful life.
I have 6 years of experience working with diverse populations with a multitude of different challenges; some of which include intergenerational trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence, relationship conflict, neurodiversity, LGBTQIA, and cultural identity.
Offer Telehealth Only - Life provides happiness as well as its share of challenges. I believe individuals and couples are capable of navigating life but sometimes need a little extra help and compassion. Therapy can be that place where a person can discuss, learn and work through any past or present challenges that may be getting in the way of living a happy and hopeful life.
(619) 776-3039 View (619) 776-3039
Photo of Corina Bair - Queer Affirming, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corina Bair - Queer Affirming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91941  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with young to middle aged adults and teens, especially women and queer folks who are seeking self discovery, joy, and want to be the best version of themselves.
If you're part of the LGBTQIA+ community, I'm here for you. As a queer person myself, I'm familiar with many of the unique challenges we face. Whether you're struggling with anxiety or sadness, have concerns about your relationships or self identity, many of my clients have found working through that process together can be incredibly rewarding and empowering. My therapy superpower is that people quickly feel comfortable talking to me - even those who are new to therapy. I'll help you through your journey by using an authentic, non-judgmental, and open-minded approach to therapy.
I specialize in working with young to middle aged adults and teens, especially women and queer folks who are seeking self discovery, joy, and want to be the best version of themselves.
If you're part of the LGBTQIA+ community, I'm here for you. As a queer person myself, I'm familiar with many of the unique challenges we face. Whether you're struggling with anxiety or sadness, have concerns about your relationships or self identity, many of my clients have found working through that process together can be incredibly rewarding and empowering. My therapy superpower is that people quickly feel comfortable talking to me - even those who are new to therapy. I'll help you through your journey by using an authentic, non-judgmental, and open-minded approach to therapy.
(619) 658-5137 View (619) 658-5137
Photo of Amanda Malka, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Amanda Malka
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91941
As a queer therapist, I really enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ population.
Hi there! My name is Amanda and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist residing in San Diego, California. I have great passion supporting and empowering my clients while they walk through their healing journey and take the steps to seek the change they are wanting for their life. I am a clinician who believes in health at every size, and I am passionate about providing a safe and welcoming space for individuals who may be struggling with body image and self-esteem. I also have experience working with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, those undergoing life transitions, people pleasers, and identity work.
As a queer therapist, I really enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ population.
Hi there! My name is Amanda and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist residing in San Diego, California. I have great passion supporting and empowering my clients while they walk through their healing journey and take the steps to seek the change they are wanting for their life. I am a clinician who believes in health at every size, and I am passionate about providing a safe and welcoming space for individuals who may be struggling with body image and self-esteem. I also have experience working with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, those undergoing life transitions, people pleasers, and identity work.
(858) 533-0624 View (858) 533-0624
Photo of Dr. Johanna Malaret, PsyD
Dr. Johanna Malaret
Registered Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92115
Hello/Saludos. I welcome you to the start of your therapy journey and your desire to learn about yourself, and heal. As a bilingual Latina/x therapist for over 15 years, I have had the pleasure to work with college students, adults, emerging adults, domestic violence survivors, bilingual immigrants and, LGB and transgender community members. At times, it can be difficult to navigate our lives and relationships, and we might feel sad, angry, or overwhelmed. Therapy can be one way to get the support you need to feel better, learn, grow, heal, and thrive in your life and relationships. I will help you achieve that.
Hello/Saludos. I welcome you to the start of your therapy journey and your desire to learn about yourself, and heal. As a bilingual Latina/x therapist for over 15 years, I have had the pleasure to work with college students, adults, emerging adults, domestic violence survivors, bilingual immigrants and, LGB and transgender community members. At times, it can be difficult to navigate our lives and relationships, and we might feel sad, angry, or overwhelmed. Therapy can be one way to get the support you need to feel better, learn, grow, heal, and thrive in your life and relationships. I will help you achieve that.
(562) 573-9897 View (562) 573-9897
Photo of Lauren Goebel - Lauren Goebel, Neurospicy Teen Therapist , AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lauren Goebel, Neurospicy Teen Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
Welcome to my practice! I specialize in working with teens (ages 13 to 18) and young adults (18-21). I work with a variety of issues/topics including: neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism, PDA), depression, anxiety, academic issues, bullying/peer issues, trauma and family relationships. I work with the LGBTQIA+ community and enjoy working with teens who are questioning or having concerns around sexuality or gender identity. When working with teens, establishing a connection and safety is my first goal. Once we have a trusting relationship, I work with them find their own goals that will enhance their life and relationships.
Welcome to my practice! I specialize in working with teens (ages 13 to 18) and young adults (18-21). I work with a variety of issues/topics including: neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism, PDA), depression, anxiety, academic issues, bullying/peer issues, trauma and family relationships. I work with the LGBTQIA+ community and enjoy working with teens who are questioning or having concerns around sexuality or gender identity. When working with teens, establishing a connection and safety is my first goal. Once we have a trusting relationship, I work with them find their own goals that will enhance their life and relationships.
(619) 393-4343 View (619) 393-4343

See more therapy options for Lemon Grove

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.