LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Los Alamitos, CA

Photo of James Brillon - James Brillon - Therapy, MS, LMFT, LPPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
James Brillon - Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Life can be hard, and that doesn't mean you're weak, it means you're human. If your struggle is with identity, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, managing emotions, addiction or other compulsivity, I am here to help. I want to help you not just manage your life, but love your life. I specialize in working with the LGBTQ Community, with men, recovery from narcissistic abuse, addictions and recovery from trauma. I want to help you integrate the various parts of your life and develop a mindful approach to your life. I work with adults, and adolescents, couples and families seeking healing.
Life can be hard, and that doesn't mean you're weak, it means you're human. If your struggle is with identity, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, managing emotions, addiction or other compulsivity, I am here to help. I want to help you not just manage your life, but love your life. I specialize in working with the LGBTQ Community, with men, recovery from narcissistic abuse, addictions and recovery from trauma. I want to help you integrate the various parts of your life and develop a mindful approach to your life. I work with adults, and adolescents, couples and families seeking healing.
(714) 332-1362 View (714) 332-1362
Photo of Corinne Towery, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Corinne Towery
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
My areas of interest include LGBTQ+, couples therapy, trauma, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and school/work functioning.
Feeling understood, supported, and safe are key aspects of the therapeutic relationship. The process of therapy also includes developing and enhancing self understanding. Together, we can explore and understand difficult issues in your life and gain a deeper understanding of your situation. Through this process, we can begin to offer you new emotional experiences and provide you with skills to improve your relationships with others and yourself. In a safe setting with warmth and engagement, I provide an opportunity to gently navigate what is bothering you most.
My areas of interest include LGBTQ+, couples therapy, trauma, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and school/work functioning.
Feeling understood, supported, and safe are key aspects of the therapeutic relationship. The process of therapy also includes developing and enhancing self understanding. Together, we can explore and understand difficult issues in your life and gain a deeper understanding of your situation. Through this process, we can begin to offer you new emotional experiences and provide you with skills to improve your relationships with others and yourself. In a safe setting with warmth and engagement, I provide an opportunity to gently navigate what is bothering you most.
(562) 526-0297 View (562) 526-0297
Photo of Monique Valle, MS, AMFT, QTAP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Monique Valle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, QTAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
I specialize in counseling LGBTQ+, HSP, or neurodivergent teens, couples, & young adults, focusing on emotional understanding, identity exploration, & relational dynamics.
Are you a highly sensitive teen, young adult, or in a relationship interested in exploring your identity in a neurodivergent-affirming space? If you're on a quest to understand your distinct self, navigate the complexities of your relationships, & find your place in a diverse world, you've discovered a compassionate companion. My practice is a haven for those who experience the world intensely, offering a nurturing environment to explore & honor your sensitivities, & intricacies. Together we'll focus on building resilience, enhancing communication, & fostering authentic living, empowering you to embrace and celebrate your true self.
I specialize in counseling LGBTQ+, HSP, or neurodivergent teens, couples, & young adults, focusing on emotional understanding, identity exploration, & relational dynamics.
Are you a highly sensitive teen, young adult, or in a relationship interested in exploring your identity in a neurodivergent-affirming space? If you're on a quest to understand your distinct self, navigate the complexities of your relationships, & find your place in a diverse world, you've discovered a compassionate companion. My practice is a haven for those who experience the world intensely, offering a nurturing environment to explore & honor your sensitivities, & intricacies. Together we'll focus on building resilience, enhancing communication, & fostering authentic living, empowering you to embrace and celebrate your true self.
(657) 214-7088 View (657) 214-7088
Photo of Bao Chau Nguyen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bao Chau Nguyen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
With 10 years of experience working with diverse individuals who encounter a variety of issues including grief, mood disorders, trauma, life transition, and LGBTQ+.
Are you experiencing grief, a recent life transition, or life crisis? Are you having unresolved conflicts? Through therapy you can process through your emotions, gain greater self-awareness, recognize your resilience, and find inner freedom from your attachment(s). Until our emotions settle, our perception of ourselves, others and life can seem to be distorted or color-blinded. I believe that the core of healing is reconciliation between the different relationship conflicts within ourselves and others. I am here to provide a safe environment to process your struggles, and to help you find your own coping skills to manage your life.
With 10 years of experience working with diverse individuals who encounter a variety of issues including grief, mood disorders, trauma, life transition, and LGBTQ+.
Are you experiencing grief, a recent life transition, or life crisis? Are you having unresolved conflicts? Through therapy you can process through your emotions, gain greater self-awareness, recognize your resilience, and find inner freedom from your attachment(s). Until our emotions settle, our perception of ourselves, others and life can seem to be distorted or color-blinded. I believe that the core of healing is reconciliation between the different relationship conflicts within ourselves and others. I am here to provide a safe environment to process your struggles, and to help you find your own coping skills to manage your life.
(657) 300-3940 View (657) 300-3940
Photo of Jamie Lesser, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Jamie Lesser
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I provide Affirmative Therapy for those who identify as LGBTQIA+ and am committed to providing culturally competent care.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in individually-tailored evidence-based treatment. I have formal training in CBT and DBT, as well as specialized training in ACT. I have completed specialized training through PSI to treat perinatal mood disorders. I provide support for those struggling with infertility, pregnancy loss, and difficulties related to pregnancy and postpartum. I assist with developing a postpartum plan during pregnancy to reduce factors that contribute to postpartum anxiety, depression, and OCD.
I provide Affirmative Therapy for those who identify as LGBTQIA+ and am committed to providing culturally competent care.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in individually-tailored evidence-based treatment. I have formal training in CBT and DBT, as well as specialized training in ACT. I have completed specialized training through PSI to treat perinatal mood disorders. I provide support for those struggling with infertility, pregnancy loss, and difficulties related to pregnancy and postpartum. I assist with developing a postpartum plan during pregnancy to reduce factors that contribute to postpartum anxiety, depression, and OCD.
(657) 216-6992 View (657) 216-6992
Photo of Tyler J. Branco, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tyler J. Branco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
My clients present with a variety of concerns including (but not limited to) life transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma, self-worth issues, and LGBTQ+ life experiences.
If you are a teen (or parent of a teen) or an adult living with anxiety, having lived through a traumatic experience, or are just feeling lost as you navigate life you are in the right place. I have helped many clients just like you to find peace, security, and a deeper understanding of themselves. You are not alone.
My clients present with a variety of concerns including (but not limited to) life transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma, self-worth issues, and LGBTQ+ life experiences.
If you are a teen (or parent of a teen) or an adult living with anxiety, having lived through a traumatic experience, or are just feeling lost as you navigate life you are in the right place. I have helped many clients just like you to find peace, security, and a deeper understanding of themselves. You are not alone.
(714) 386-9671 View (714) 386-9671
Photo of Beth Sullivan, PsyD, Psychologist
Beth Sullivan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
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
Jan Watkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I provide a safe and nurturing environment for the LGBTQA+ community.
I imagine you are seeking support for one of life's challenging transitions. In the work we do together you will find compassion, warmth, a dose of humor and directness. As a Family Therapist in private practice for over 37 years I am passionate about helping you in a nonjudgmental and supportive way identify and work to resolve the issues that brought you into therapy.
I provide a safe and nurturing environment for the LGBTQA+ community.
I imagine you are seeking support for one of life's challenging transitions. In the work we do together you will find compassion, warmth, a dose of humor and directness. As a Family Therapist in private practice for over 37 years I am passionate about helping you in a nonjudgmental and supportive way identify and work to resolve the issues that brought you into therapy.
(562) 438-7628 View (562) 438-7628
Photo of Allan Sadac, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allan Sadac
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
The time is now to make the change! I have worked with a diverse range of clients from all walks of life. Life is not easy for any of us and there are times in our lives when we need some support - a listening ear, an objective perspective, a place to just be ourselves. My goal is to help you get a sense of control and strength back in your life and to help you get to where you would like to be.
The time is now to make the change! I have worked with a diverse range of clients from all walks of life. Life is not easy for any of us and there are times in our lives when we need some support - a listening ear, an objective perspective, a place to just be ourselves. My goal is to help you get a sense of control and strength back in your life and to help you get to where you would like to be.
(916) 680-8332 View (916) 680-8332
Photo of Johann Ortizo, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Johann Ortizo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
As someone who values authenticity, Johann integrates a psychodynamic approach with attachment elements in his clinical work. Pursuing a doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology, Johann specializes in addressing anxiety, family and relationship issues, and challenges with gender identity and sexuality, grounding his practice in the exploration of the unconscious mind and early attachment experiences. He explores how these early attachment experiences—affect current interpersonal relationships and emotional patterns.
As someone who values authenticity, Johann integrates a psychodynamic approach with attachment elements in his clinical work. Pursuing a doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology, Johann specializes in addressing anxiety, family and relationship issues, and challenges with gender identity and sexuality, grounding his practice in the exploration of the unconscious mind and early attachment experiences. He explores how these early attachment experiences—affect current interpersonal relationships and emotional patterns.
(714) 465-5519 View (714) 465-5519
Photo of Shannon Fiorica, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon Fiorica
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
Imagine what it would feel like to not worry about your life, kids, relationships, or job. You believe a more fulfilling life exists, but accessing it is challenging. What should you do first when everything feels overwhelming? Have you considered reaching out to a counselor but want to ensure you find someone who can connect with you, your spouse, or your kid? I can help you and your family members identify goals and tools to get you and them where you want to be.
Imagine what it would feel like to not worry about your life, kids, relationships, or job. You believe a more fulfilling life exists, but accessing it is challenging. What should you do first when everything feels overwhelming? Have you considered reaching out to a counselor but want to ensure you find someone who can connect with you, your spouse, or your kid? I can help you and your family members identify goals and tools to get you and them where you want to be.
(562) 418-5291 View (562) 418-5291
Photo of Molly Papp - Bella Vida Therapy with Molly Papp, LMFT, CSAT, MS, MPH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bella Vida Therapy with Molly Papp
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, MS, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
You deserve to live 'la bella vida:' a beautiful life. But sometimes life doesn’t always feel beautiful. If it's hard to get close to people, you have been shockingly betrayed, or you feel you have an unhealthy relationship with sex, I can help you. You are not alone. I will be your advocate and guide. I currently can hold teletherapy sessions in California and Vermont. I'm sex positive, trauma-informed and try to offer a safe, supportive place for processing so my clients can move forward in their lives with grace and self-respect.
You deserve to live 'la bella vida:' a beautiful life. But sometimes life doesn’t always feel beautiful. If it's hard to get close to people, you have been shockingly betrayed, or you feel you have an unhealthy relationship with sex, I can help you. You are not alone. I will be your advocate and guide. I currently can hold teletherapy sessions in California and Vermont. I'm sex positive, trauma-informed and try to offer a safe, supportive place for processing so my clients can move forward in their lives with grace and self-respect.
(562) 379-6774 View (562) 379-6774
Photo of Fei Yang, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Fei Yang
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Relationships with our loved ones and with ourselves can be complicated. Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries with your family? Do you feel lonely and not seen in your intimate relationships? Do you ever feel conflicted within yourself about going after what you really want? I understand how hard it can be to change relational dynamics and how powerless you might feel at times. Yet, I see your grit - you’re right here, digging for answers, and that means a lot to me. So, props to you for making moves and shaking things up in your life!
Relationships with our loved ones and with ourselves can be complicated. Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries with your family? Do you feel lonely and not seen in your intimate relationships? Do you ever feel conflicted within yourself about going after what you really want? I understand how hard it can be to change relational dynamics and how powerless you might feel at times. Yet, I see your grit - you’re right here, digging for answers, and that means a lot to me. So, props to you for making moves and shaking things up in your life!
(626) 270-9400 View (626) 270-9400
Photo of Jamie Lesser - Unfiltered Therapy, PsyD, PMH-C
Unfiltered Therapy
PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
We are a team of therapists committed to transparency and results. We work collaboratively with our patients, holding them accountable as we support them in meeting their goals. With our many years of experience in the field, we tailor the therapy experience to the unique needs of our patients. We are invested in helping our patients challenge the barriers to their happiness and help move them towards living a life worth living. We use collaboration, empathy, and compassion to encourage our patients to be an active part of the therapy process to aid in producing long-term results.
We are a team of therapists committed to transparency and results. We work collaboratively with our patients, holding them accountable as we support them in meeting their goals. With our many years of experience in the field, we tailor the therapy experience to the unique needs of our patients. We are invested in helping our patients challenge the barriers to their happiness and help move them towards living a life worth living. We use collaboration, empathy, and compassion to encourage our patients to be an active part of the therapy process to aid in producing long-term results.
(657) 300-5365 View (657) 300-5365
Photo of Kathy Walker - Kathryn M Walker, LMFT, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn M Walker, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Counseling offers an opportunity to explore areas of life that can bring you more personal satisfaction and confidence. I can help you sort through personal difficulties as well as the parts of your life that are going well. Recognizing the strengths you already possess is an important part of the process. Your strengths are nurtured to become the tools for change, as my aim is to add clarity to your life, improve levels of functioning, and ultimately benefit you and those around you. I seek to encourage the exploration of change and an improved quality of life.
Counseling offers an opportunity to explore areas of life that can bring you more personal satisfaction and confidence. I can help you sort through personal difficulties as well as the parts of your life that are going well. Recognizing the strengths you already possess is an important part of the process. Your strengths are nurtured to become the tools for change, as my aim is to add clarity to your life, improve levels of functioning, and ultimately benefit you and those around you. I seek to encourage the exploration of change and an improved quality of life.
(714) 563-4148 View (714) 563-4148
Photo of Sanar Psychotherapy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sanar Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I have been in the mental health field for over 15 years. My many years of experience have allowed me to strengthen my clinical skills and develop my clinical expertise in helping you to achieve your unique goals. I continue to educate myself on the most up-to-date clinical research and I implement an evidence based clinical approach. Some of these models include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness practice and more. I have provided clinical care to countless individuals, families and couples. In treatment, I can help you increase your self-worth, work though depression, ease anxiety and more.
I have been in the mental health field for over 15 years. My many years of experience have allowed me to strengthen my clinical skills and develop my clinical expertise in helping you to achieve your unique goals. I continue to educate myself on the most up-to-date clinical research and I implement an evidence based clinical approach. Some of these models include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness practice and more. I have provided clinical care to countless individuals, families and couples. In treatment, I can help you increase your self-worth, work though depression, ease anxiety and more.
(562) 306-0269 View (562) 306-0269
Photo of Judy Dodgen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Judy Dodgen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Currently accepting new clients as of August 1, 2022. Growth is a process. In our struggle to grow and reach our full potential we come to places where we need help. Today you are taking the first step towards hope through self awareness. It takes strength to be vulnerable and open to change. I believe that all people possess the tools to better their lives and I have been honored with the privilege to accompany others in their journey to discover their individual abilities. I look forward to working with you, where together we can locate a new place of hope and self awareness.
Currently accepting new clients as of August 1, 2022. Growth is a process. In our struggle to grow and reach our full potential we come to places where we need help. Today you are taking the first step towards hope through self awareness. It takes strength to be vulnerable and open to change. I believe that all people possess the tools to better their lives and I have been honored with the privilege to accompany others in their journey to discover their individual abilities. I look forward to working with you, where together we can locate a new place of hope and self awareness.
(562) 320-8916 View (562) 320-8916
Photo of Nina R Barlevy, PsyD, Psychologist
Nina R Barlevy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I love working with individual children, adolescents, and adults to improve their overall happiness and well-being. I have had great success treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and problems with grief and adjustment to other life stressors.
I love working with individual children, adolescents, and adults to improve their overall happiness and well-being. I have had great success treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, and problems with grief and adjustment to other life stressors.
(562) 276-2751 View (562) 276-2751
Photo of Juli Agajanian, MA, LMFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Juli Agajanian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I look forward to getting to know you and learning about your unique life experiences. I work to inspire and motivate you. I will help you foster greater understanding of your struggles as well as expand your coping mechanisms so that life can feel less overwhelming.
I look forward to getting to know you and learning about your unique life experiences. I work to inspire and motivate you. I will help you foster greater understanding of your struggles as well as expand your coping mechanisms so that life can feel less overwhelming.
(562) 554-5465 View (562) 554-5465
Photo of Briana Nicole Messerschmidt, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Briana Nicole Messerschmidt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Do you have “sticky” self-defeating thoughts that won’t leave you alone? Do you “know” you’re good enough but don’t “feel” it? Have you suffered the loss of a pet or loved one and struggling to find someone who “gets it”? I am here to help with these and more. We have all been faced with major changes and sacrifices since 2020. Some changes have left scares and holes in us. I truly believe that we all have the power to grow and heal within us; sometimes we just need a little guidance and specialized tools to get started. I can help you gain strength, motivation, resiliency, and a deeper compassion for yourself and your journey.
Do you have “sticky” self-defeating thoughts that won’t leave you alone? Do you “know” you’re good enough but don’t “feel” it? Have you suffered the loss of a pet or loved one and struggling to find someone who “gets it”? I am here to help with these and more. We have all been faced with major changes and sacrifices since 2020. Some changes have left scares and holes in us. I truly believe that we all have the power to grow and heal within us; sometimes we just need a little guidance and specialized tools to get started. I can help you gain strength, motivation, resiliency, and a deeper compassion for yourself and your journey.
(805) 728-1212 View (805) 728-1212

See more therapy options for Los Alamitos

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.