LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Long Beach, CA

Photo of Henry Campagna, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Henry Campagna
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome to my therapist profile. My name is Henry, and I am a 1st-generation gay man of Italian and Mexican descent. I've spent the majority of my life advocating for my community, and I'm honored to provide a safe and creative therapy space for my clients to express themselves openly and freely.
Hello and welcome to my therapist profile. My name is Henry, and I am a 1st-generation gay man of Italian and Mexican descent. I've spent the majority of my life advocating for my community, and I'm honored to provide a safe and creative therapy space for my clients to express themselves openly and freely.
(626) 653-4098 View (626) 653-4098
Photo of Maria Rodriguez, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m a white, neurodivergent, nonbinary lesbian therapist. I’m LGBTQIA2S+ celebrating, trauma-focused, and social justice-oriented. Using an anti-oppressive lens, my work is informed by movements in anti-racism, queer theory, liberation psychology, and disability justice. My focus is queer and trans children, adolescents, and young adults who may be dealing with life transitions, and struggling to carry the weight of school or work. I love to work with autistic clients and individuals with other disabilities. I enjoy working with families who want to build trust, communication, and mutual respect.
Welcome! I’m a white, neurodivergent, nonbinary lesbian therapist. I’m LGBTQIA2S+ celebrating, trauma-focused, and social justice-oriented. Using an anti-oppressive lens, my work is informed by movements in anti-racism, queer theory, liberation psychology, and disability justice. My focus is queer and trans children, adolescents, and young adults who may be dealing with life transitions, and struggling to carry the weight of school or work. I love to work with autistic clients and individuals with other disabilities. I enjoy working with families who want to build trust, communication, and mutual respect.
(424) 304-1301 View (424) 304-1301
Photo of Kel Mathews, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kel Mathews
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
As an African American woman who also identifies as part of the LGBTQ community, I have a passion for working with people of color and those who identify as LGBTQ.
At the root of depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues is trauma. Are you tired of sitting on the sidelines of life and watching? Are you wanting and waiting to be truly happy? These are just a few of the issues, my clients and I are processing and working through.
As an African American woman who also identifies as part of the LGBTQ community, I have a passion for working with people of color and those who identify as LGBTQ.
At the root of depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues is trauma. Are you tired of sitting on the sidelines of life and watching? Are you wanting and waiting to be truly happy? These are just a few of the issues, my clients and I are processing and working through.
(323) 475-7530 View (323) 475-7530
Photo of Elena Dasgupta-Tsinikas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elena Dasgupta-Tsinikas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirmative, feminist, body positive, sex positive, culturally sensitive, and accepting of nontraditional lifestyles and points of view.
My Credentials: A certified cognitive behavioral therapist specializing in the treatment of trauma and PTSD. My Experience: I have worked with issues such as family conflict, life transitions, domestic violence, sexual abuse, depression, low self-esteem, parenting difficulties & relationship distress. My Clients: I work with women, men, & non-binary individuals; LGBTQIA+ identified folx & their families; young adults, older adults, and parents raising young children. I also love working as a "therapist's therapist," providing a supportive, safe space for other mental health professionals who are working through their own "stuff".
My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirmative, feminist, body positive, sex positive, culturally sensitive, and accepting of nontraditional lifestyles and points of view.
My Credentials: A certified cognitive behavioral therapist specializing in the treatment of trauma and PTSD. My Experience: I have worked with issues such as family conflict, life transitions, domestic violence, sexual abuse, depression, low self-esteem, parenting difficulties & relationship distress. My Clients: I work with women, men, & non-binary individuals; LGBTQIA+ identified folx & their families; young adults, older adults, and parents raising young children. I also love working as a "therapist's therapist," providing a supportive, safe space for other mental health professionals who are working through their own "stuff".
(323) 747-7364 View (323) 747-7364
Photo of Alton Carswell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alton Carswell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has worked with various groups and clients. If you are looking for a therapist that will listen and acknowledge your unique perspective you don't have to look any further. I have 10 years of experience working with singles, couples, military, LGBTQ, people of color, undocumented immigrants from various countries and even inmates. In addition to my hours spent in working with varying communities, I have been highly involved as alumni from Antioch University in Los Angeles and as a current doctoral student in media psychology at Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has worked with various groups and clients. If you are looking for a therapist that will listen and acknowledge your unique perspective you don't have to look any further. I have 10 years of experience working with singles, couples, military, LGBTQ, people of color, undocumented immigrants from various countries and even inmates. In addition to my hours spent in working with varying communities, I have been highly involved as alumni from Antioch University in Los Angeles and as a current doctoral student in media psychology at Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara.
(562) 454-1773 View (562) 454-1773
Photo of Eric Price Phd, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Eric Price Phd
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
Often in life, we experience difficult situations, transitions, or changes that can make us feel lost, anxious, and overwhelmed.
Most of my clinical training has been with college students, young adults, and LGBTQIA communities, but I have experience working with clients across the lifespan. I specialize in helping clients navigate coming out experiences, anxiety, depression, trauma, and bereavement. I also recognize the ways societal oppression impacts marginalized voices. In therapy, I value creating a safe, warm, trusting environment where you will develop new insight into your life and cultivate new strategies to meet your goals. You are not meant to do this alone and I would be honored to help you along your journey!
Often in life, we experience difficult situations, transitions, or changes that can make us feel lost, anxious, and overwhelmed.
Most of my clinical training has been with college students, young adults, and LGBTQIA communities, but I have experience working with clients across the lifespan. I specialize in helping clients navigate coming out experiences, anxiety, depression, trauma, and bereavement. I also recognize the ways societal oppression impacts marginalized voices. In therapy, I value creating a safe, warm, trusting environment where you will develop new insight into your life and cultivate new strategies to meet your goals. You are not meant to do this alone and I would be honored to help you along your journey!
(562) 456-3174 View (562) 456-3174
Photo of Jonathan Boland, LCSW, BCD, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Boland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, MPH
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814  (Online Only)
I work with all populations, but I specialize in trauma, EMDR, sexuality, and LGBTQ.
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you feel like a prisoner of your past? Have traumatic events taken over your life? You're not alone. Life doesn’t have to be this way. I can guide you through the transformation of becoming who you were meant to be, stepping fully into your joy. I'll give you the courage you need to be your true authentic self, always. I’ve helped hundreds of people just like you radically transform their lives, including those healing from trauma and people who desire a healthier sexual relationship with themselves and with others. I’m passionate about assisting others reach their full potential.
I work with all populations, but I specialize in trauma, EMDR, sexuality, and LGBTQ.
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you feel like a prisoner of your past? Have traumatic events taken over your life? You're not alone. Life doesn’t have to be this way. I can guide you through the transformation of becoming who you were meant to be, stepping fully into your joy. I'll give you the courage you need to be your true authentic self, always. I’ve helped hundreds of people just like you radically transform their lives, including those healing from trauma and people who desire a healthier sexual relationship with themselves and with others. I’m passionate about assisting others reach their full potential.
(310) 742-8451 View (310) 742-8451
Photo of Lenwood Valentino Patterson, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lenwood Valentino Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Waitlist for new clients
I can assist you in overcoming barriers to living up to your full potential by exploring together (1) What are these barriers and (2) How we can heal identified specific barriers. I have overcome specific challenges in my personal life; which is evidence of how I not only have the academic experience, but also the personal experience to assist you in becoming all we know you are meant to be! My primary client base has been working with Addictions, primarily with the LGBTQ communities. I also can assist clients with extensive Traumas integrate healing into what has been an all encompassing devastation of existence.
I can assist you in overcoming barriers to living up to your full potential by exploring together (1) What are these barriers and (2) How we can heal identified specific barriers. I have overcome specific challenges in my personal life; which is evidence of how I not only have the academic experience, but also the personal experience to assist you in becoming all we know you are meant to be! My primary client base has been working with Addictions, primarily with the LGBTQ communities. I also can assist clients with extensive Traumas integrate healing into what has been an all encompassing devastation of existence.
(562) 566-3515 View (562) 566-3515
Photo of Ramona Benner, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ramona Benner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802  (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.
(424) 292-8990 View (424) 292-8990
Photo of Zane (Susan) Walshe, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zane (Susan) Walshe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814
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 Donny Youssef, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donny Youssef
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814
Whether you are coming in experienced in therapy, no experience, with specific goals, or just checking in, I am glad you are here. Over my years of service I have emphasized the importance of representation in the mental health field. As a Queer Latinx therapist I incorporate my education in Women's Studies, Gender and Sexuality Studies, and Chicanx Studies into my theoretical framework. It can be difficult asking for help but I am glad you are taking this first step. También ofrezco servicios en Español y creo en la importancia de recibir terapia en el idioma en el que se sienta más cómodo.
Whether you are coming in experienced in therapy, no experience, with specific goals, or just checking in, I am glad you are here. Over my years of service I have emphasized the importance of representation in the mental health field. As a Queer Latinx therapist I incorporate my education in Women's Studies, Gender and Sexuality Studies, and Chicanx Studies into my theoretical framework. It can be difficult asking for help but I am glad you are taking this first step. También ofrezco servicios en Español y creo en la importancia de recibir terapia en el idioma en el que se sienta más cómodo.
(323) 274-2711 View (323) 274-2711
Photo of Jose F Gaspar, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jose F Gaspar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
I am Solution-Focused, EMDR trained, Queer, Feminist, and passionate about Critical Race Theory and systemic injustice. My clients struggle with internal shame and boundary setting that often gets in the way of them achieving their goals. I focus first on practical solutions, while analyzing my clients for patterns and traumas that are keeping them stuck. Guiding clients through complex traumas, I restore hope and self-esteem (it’s easier than you think; and often fun.) Together, we navigate the challenges of self-discovery, fostering joy, curiosity, and empowerment. I help people move from survival mode to thriving.
I am Solution-Focused, EMDR trained, Queer, Feminist, and passionate about Critical Race Theory and systemic injustice. My clients struggle with internal shame and boundary setting that often gets in the way of them achieving their goals. I focus first on practical solutions, while analyzing my clients for patterns and traumas that are keeping them stuck. Guiding clients through complex traumas, I restore hope and self-esteem (it’s easier than you think; and often fun.) Together, we navigate the challenges of self-discovery, fostering joy, curiosity, and empowerment. I help people move from survival mode to thriving.
(323) 370-4880 View (323) 370-4880
Photo of Myles Marcotte, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Myles Marcotte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814  (Online Only)
I am a trans-identified therapist who is passionate about supporting LGBTQIA clients. I frequently work with late-diagnosed ADHD-ers, college students, chronic illness/disability, "late bloomers", relationship and family issues, body image (HAES-aligned), and mood disorders. I provide an affirming space for clients who are sex workers, kink practitioners, and consensually non-monogamous.
I am a trans-identified therapist who is passionate about supporting LGBTQIA clients. I frequently work with late-diagnosed ADHD-ers, college students, chronic illness/disability, "late bloomers", relationship and family issues, body image (HAES-aligned), and mood disorders. I provide an affirming space for clients who are sex workers, kink practitioners, and consensually non-monogamous.
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Photo of Emily (Lee) Goldstein, ASW
Emily (Lee) Goldstein
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am deeply committed to serving my community and creating a space where my clients feel seen, heard, and valued.
Hello, my name is Lee and I look forward to connecting with you. Taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting, but it can also be profoundly transformative. As someone who has experienced the impact of therapy firsthand, I understand its power to unlock new possibilities and pave the way for authentic living. In our sessions, we'll work together to navigate your past traumas, heal old wounds, and empower you to shape your present and future according to your desires.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am deeply committed to serving my community and creating a space where my clients feel seen, heard, and valued.
Hello, my name is Lee and I look forward to connecting with you. Taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting, but it can also be profoundly transformative. As someone who has experienced the impact of therapy firsthand, I understand its power to unlock new possibilities and pave the way for authentic living. In our sessions, we'll work together to navigate your past traumas, heal old wounds, and empower you to shape your present and future according to your desires.
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Photo of Marika Gonzalez Reznichek, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marika Gonzalez Reznichek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (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.
(424) 581-1774 View (424) 581-1774
Photo of Deborah Dueñas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah Dueñas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
As an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, I strive to create a safe, inclusive, judgement-free space for clients to explore, heal, and grow.
Sometimes people find themselves repeating behavior patterns that don't help them move forward. Out of control thoughts, feelings and reactions can interfere with one’s sense of peace and wellbeing as well as relationships. If you can identify with any of these challenges, I can help you find your center and honor your life path.
As an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, I strive to create a safe, inclusive, judgement-free space for clients to explore, heal, and grow.
Sometimes people find themselves repeating behavior patterns that don't help them move forward. Out of control thoughts, feelings and reactions can interfere with one’s sense of peace and wellbeing as well as relationships. If you can identify with any of these challenges, I can help you find your center and honor your life path.
(415) 943-0822 View (415) 943-0822
Photo of Monique Merritt Romick, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monique Merritt Romick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90805
I am a client-centered, Black, queer therapist.
Welcome! As a therapist, my practice is client-centered, compassion focused, trauma informed, and culturally attuned. My goal is to create a space where you are the leader and I carefully support you - we collaborate together to help find clarity and achieve goals. I see myself as helping bring forth what is already present within you, and cheering for you as you determine how to share these gifts with the world. Not to mention, I try to make the process as enjoyable as possible!
I am a client-centered, Black, queer therapist.
Welcome! As a therapist, my practice is client-centered, compassion focused, trauma informed, and culturally attuned. My goal is to create a space where you are the leader and I carefully support you - we collaborate together to help find clarity and achieve goals. I see myself as helping bring forth what is already present within you, and cheering for you as you determine how to share these gifts with the world. Not to mention, I try to make the process as enjoyable as possible!
(424) 370-1832 View (424) 370-1832
Photo of Ionna Henderson - Therapist ISH, MA, AMFT, APCC
Therapist ISH
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90822  (Online Only)
Our experiences shape who we are. Our identities influence the way we perceive and interact with the world, and the way the world perceives and interacts with us. Navigating the world in my intersectional identity, I understand the importance of providing an intentional and affirming space for folx from marginalized communities. As such, I offer a holistic approach to therapy that addresses the unique needs and identities of my clients. I work with women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and veteran communities. I also work with individuals who have experienced some form of abuse, trauma, oppression, inequity, or violence.
Our experiences shape who we are. Our identities influence the way we perceive and interact with the world, and the way the world perceives and interacts with us. Navigating the world in my intersectional identity, I understand the importance of providing an intentional and affirming space for folx from marginalized communities. As such, I offer a holistic approach to therapy that addresses the unique needs and identities of my clients. I work with women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and veteran communities. I also work with individuals who have experienced some form of abuse, trauma, oppression, inequity, or violence.
(323) 897-1199 View (323) 897-1199
Photo of John J Raasch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John J Raasch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90805
It is both courageous and wise that you have noticed a need and are seeking help. Your mental health is a huge part of your overall well-being and life fulfillment. The following is a partial list of the types of folks I have worked with and the challenges we have addressed together: • The LGBTQ+ community • Spiritual seekers/crises of faith/religious abuse • College students/those transitioning to adulthood • Creatives • Death and dying • Depression • Anxiety • Addiction • Infertility • Adoption • Men’s mental health • Life transitions • Trauma • Disability/learning disability • Domestic violence/conflict
It is both courageous and wise that you have noticed a need and are seeking help. Your mental health is a huge part of your overall well-being and life fulfillment. The following is a partial list of the types of folks I have worked with and the challenges we have addressed together: • The LGBTQ+ community • Spiritual seekers/crises of faith/religious abuse • College students/those transitioning to adulthood • Creatives • Death and dying • Depression • Anxiety • Addiction • Infertility • Adoption • Men’s mental health • Life transitions • Trauma • Disability/learning disability • Domestic violence/conflict
(657) 214-7213 View (657) 214-7213
Photo of Jack Senese IV, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jack Senese IV
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803  (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist who approaches therapy with a direct, strengths-based approach. I spent my life in New York before moving out to LA to do therapy. While here, I have worked my professional career in a diverse number of settings, including a neurofeedback clinic, rehab center, and LGBTQ center. I was driven to the mental health field because I genuinely enjoy working with others to train their brain and create a better future. I am also an industrial-organizational psychologist where my focus is on work-life balance.
I am a licensed therapist who approaches therapy with a direct, strengths-based approach. I spent my life in New York before moving out to LA to do therapy. While here, I have worked my professional career in a diverse number of settings, including a neurofeedback clinic, rehab center, and LGBTQ center. I was driven to the mental health field because I genuinely enjoy working with others to train their brain and create a better future. I am also an industrial-organizational psychologist where my focus is on work-life balance.
(818) 347-3726 View (818) 347-3726
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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.