LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Los Angeles, CA
![Photo of Zachary M Zaret, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/197ec1a2-a6b9-4d81-8d29-6a389b3520ce/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zachary M Zaret
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010
As a queer identified cis white male therapist with a passion for both mental health and the entertainment industry, I believe that a combination of a queer affirmative lens and my background in performance make me different from other therapists. My work in entertainment allows me to bring a creative and innovative approach to therapy so I can provide a unique and valuable experience to every client. While I primarily work within the LGBT community, my approach with all clients is rooted in the belief that everyone has the power to transform their life, I’m here to help them do just that.
As a queer identified cis white male therapist with a passion for both mental health and the entertainment industry, I believe that a combination of a queer affirmative lens and my background in performance make me different from other therapists. My work in entertainment allows me to bring a creative and innovative approach to therapy so I can provide a unique and valuable experience to every client. While I primarily work within the LGBT community, my approach with all clients is rooted in the belief that everyone has the power to transform their life, I’m here to help them do just that.
![Photo of Phillip Guttmann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d7d9659-c9c0-4e25-b090-a232755bfc6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Phillip Guttmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90015 (Online Only)
I am a gay licensed therapist in California who believes that change is possible, incrementally. I also believe that what works for one person may not work for another. I particularly enjoy working with LGBTQ clients but also happily see straight clients and find joy in working with all populations and people from all backgrounds. I work well with clients who appreciate some give and take in session. And who are open and ready to work on connecting to a stronger version of themselves - however that looks for you.
I am a gay licensed therapist in California who believes that change is possible, incrementally. I also believe that what works for one person may not work for another. I particularly enjoy working with LGBTQ clients but also happily see straight clients and find joy in working with all populations and people from all backgrounds. I work well with clients who appreciate some give and take in session. And who are open and ready to work on connecting to a stronger version of themselves - however that looks for you.
![Photo of Eric Burke, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/466dd4d4-a682-4679-959f-d37e6d327690/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Burke
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019 (Online Only)
I am a bi-racial Native with Indigenous worldviews, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and queer-affirming.
Our deepest Self is good, creative and generative; we are beautiful and resilient beings, an integration of body, mind, spirit, and ancestry. Yet sometimes life’s challenges sabotage our joy or interrupt our purpose, leaving us feeling anxious, grieved, or manifesting destructive thought and behavioral patterns. These challenges are the daily demands of navigating our chaotic world, but sometimes include other traumas such as violence, abuse, or family and inter-generational wounds.
I am a bi-racial Native with Indigenous worldviews, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and queer-affirming.
Our deepest Self is good, creative and generative; we are beautiful and resilient beings, an integration of body, mind, spirit, and ancestry. Yet sometimes life’s challenges sabotage our joy or interrupt our purpose, leaving us feeling anxious, grieved, or manifesting destructive thought and behavioral patterns. These challenges are the daily demands of navigating our chaotic world, but sometimes include other traumas such as violence, abuse, or family and inter-generational wounds.
![Photo of Jesse McIntosh, AMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1399aa72-8bad-4047-ad43-5dc8dbe7971b/5/320x400.png)
I offer warm, socially informed, and collaborative therapeutic care, with an emphasis on treating depression, shame and self-esteem issues, and patterns of relational instability. With clinical training from the Los Angeles LGBT Center and over a decade as a high school and middle school teacher, I have specific experience with the challenges faced by adolescents, young adults, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. But in the end, I’m eager to work with anyone who feels I could be a match for their needs.
I offer warm, socially informed, and collaborative therapeutic care, with an emphasis on treating depression, shame and self-esteem issues, and patterns of relational instability. With clinical training from the Los Angeles LGBT Center and over a decade as a high school and middle school teacher, I have specific experience with the challenges faced by adolescents, young adults, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. But in the end, I’m eager to work with anyone who feels I could be a match for their needs.
![Photo of Andrew Borden, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84a3b3cf-ccde-4633-beb5-3c3011084ef0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Borden
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90068
I am LGBTQ+ affirmative, sex/kink positive, neurodiversity-affirming, poly/CNM-affirming, practice from a Health at Every Size lens, and use "geek therapy", working primarily with queer folks.
Hi, I'm glad you made it. Asking for and finding support is tough, but this is the first step. Tell me, do you find it difficult to stay motivated throughout the day? Are you constantly ruminating on interactions with others, anxious about whether you said or did the "right" thing? Perhaps you spend most of your time and energy worrying about how others perceive you? Or, maybe you struggle to feel deserving to take up space in a conversation or a room full of people? If you identify as a perfectionist, people-pleaser, over-thinker, or struggle with low self-esteem or self-worth, therapy might help cut through some of that noise.
I am LGBTQ+ affirmative, sex/kink positive, neurodiversity-affirming, poly/CNM-affirming, practice from a Health at Every Size lens, and use "geek therapy", working primarily with queer folks.
Hi, I'm glad you made it. Asking for and finding support is tough, but this is the first step. Tell me, do you find it difficult to stay motivated throughout the day? Are you constantly ruminating on interactions with others, anxious about whether you said or did the "right" thing? Perhaps you spend most of your time and energy worrying about how others perceive you? Or, maybe you struggle to feel deserving to take up space in a conversation or a room full of people? If you identify as a perfectionist, people-pleaser, over-thinker, or struggle with low self-esteem or self-worth, therapy might help cut through some of that noise.
![Photo of Rodrigo M Dasilva, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b334c5e6-7657-4bb4-8ddb-f1f76f474a88/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rodrigo M Dasilva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046 (Online Only)
When working with LGBTQIA clients I recognize the importance of using a sex positive and non-shaming approach.
I am currently seeing clients in New York, California and Florida State. I believe Psychotherapy is a collaborative venture that can help people lead a fulfilling life and maintain healthy relationships. In our work together my intention is to create a judgement-free space where I can understand your personal experience and nurture and support you in your journey towards authenticity and change. If you suffer with states of depression, anxiety, or loneliness, or you feel generally dissatisfied with aspects of your life, through our work together we can explore skills and tools that move you toward growth.I am trained in EMDR.
When working with LGBTQIA clients I recognize the importance of using a sex positive and non-shaming approach.
I am currently seeing clients in New York, California and Florida State. I believe Psychotherapy is a collaborative venture that can help people lead a fulfilling life and maintain healthy relationships. In our work together my intention is to create a judgement-free space where I can understand your personal experience and nurture and support you in your journey towards authenticity and change. If you suffer with states of depression, anxiety, or loneliness, or you feel generally dissatisfied with aspects of your life, through our work together we can explore skills and tools that move you toward growth.I am trained in EMDR.
![Photo of Melanie Rashbaum, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/848a1a4d-517d-47d7-9b8c-62f1001c58e5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie Rashbaum
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019
I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, EMDR trauma treatment, Codependency, Attachment styles, and ERP treatment for OCD.
Congratulations on taking the first steps toward a more manageable life! It is not easy to sift through the list of many fantastic and capable clinicians to find the one that feels right for you. My current and past clients shared that they reached out to me because they resonated with my specializations and personable website. I am an empathic active listener who will assist you in discovering and recovering parts of yourself, will challenge your misguided beliefs and dominant discourses, and support you as you process the myriad of emotions that you are carrying. To learn more about me: www.theextrovertedtherapist.com
I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, EMDR trauma treatment, Codependency, Attachment styles, and ERP treatment for OCD.
Congratulations on taking the first steps toward a more manageable life! It is not easy to sift through the list of many fantastic and capable clinicians to find the one that feels right for you. My current and past clients shared that they reached out to me because they resonated with my specializations and personable website. I am an empathic active listener who will assist you in discovering and recovering parts of yourself, will challenge your misguided beliefs and dominant discourses, and support you as you process the myriad of emotions that you are carrying. To learn more about me: www.theextrovertedtherapist.com
![Photo of Benjamin Huang Nguyen, MSW, LCSW, CPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db5d2bc-ac11-4e2c-9dd9-d351d0189fb8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Benjamin Huang Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90045
I specialize in LGBTQ-affirming and multicultural therapy for underrepresented groups; we explore deeper life experiences about identity, belonging, gender, sexuality, race, and culture.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or existential challenges stemming from trauma, loneliness, disconnection, life transitions, or urban stress? In my therapy practice, you'll find a supportive, non-judgmental space where we work together to discover ingrained patterns of behavior, thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Through our exploration, you'll deepen self-awareness, gain clarity, and uncover the roots of your struggles. Over time, people in therapy with me discover a renewed sense of purpose and connection, equipped to make conscious choices and live authentically for increased wholeness and creativity.
I specialize in LGBTQ-affirming and multicultural therapy for underrepresented groups; we explore deeper life experiences about identity, belonging, gender, sexuality, race, and culture.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or existential challenges stemming from trauma, loneliness, disconnection, life transitions, or urban stress? In my therapy practice, you'll find a supportive, non-judgmental space where we work together to discover ingrained patterns of behavior, thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Through our exploration, you'll deepen self-awareness, gain clarity, and uncover the roots of your struggles. Over time, people in therapy with me discover a renewed sense of purpose and connection, equipped to make conscious choices and live authentically for increased wholeness and creativity.
![Photo of Julia M Schwab, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae3dfc6a-46b1-40c7-937a-ef59517aaa14/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a therapist who welcomes and affirms the LGBTQIA+ community, my specialization lies in working with the transgender, gender non-conforming, gender queer individuals, as well as those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, or questioning. Starting therapy might evoke apprehension, but rest assured, I am warm, empathetic, and fully engaged to support you during life's most challenging moments. Together, we will explore the obstacles and patterns that might be hindering your desired life, pushing beyond limits to attain a more enriching and fulfilling life.
As a therapist who welcomes and affirms the LGBTQIA+ community, my specialization lies in working with the transgender, gender non-conforming, gender queer individuals, as well as those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, or questioning. Starting therapy might evoke apprehension, but rest assured, I am warm, empathetic, and fully engaged to support you during life's most challenging moments. Together, we will explore the obstacles and patterns that might be hindering your desired life, pushing beyond limits to attain a more enriching and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Vaelupe Ma'aele, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29be2254-cf0b-4d84-b786-3e771e2d04bb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vaelupe Ma'aele
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Online Only)
I am passionate in helping BIPOC, queer folx, and pacific islanders in navigating their mental health journey.
Firstly, I am proud of you and am honored to be considered as a person of support in your sacred journey. As a byproduct of your upbringing and community, some of your toughest battles have probably felt the most familiar. You've mastered the role as the "go-to" for everyone around you and pride yourself on this. You're fighting so many silent battles & survival mode has been a life long approach. Now you're tired and want to access peace and new ways of existing. You deserve the breath of fresh air and I am here to support as we explore ways of growth through boundary setting, healing inner child wounds & putting yourself first.
I am passionate in helping BIPOC, queer folx, and pacific islanders in navigating their mental health journey.
Firstly, I am proud of you and am honored to be considered as a person of support in your sacred journey. As a byproduct of your upbringing and community, some of your toughest battles have probably felt the most familiar. You've mastered the role as the "go-to" for everyone around you and pride yourself on this. You're fighting so many silent battles & survival mode has been a life long approach. Now you're tired and want to access peace and new ways of existing. You deserve the breath of fresh air and I am here to support as we explore ways of growth through boundary setting, healing inner child wounds & putting yourself first.
![Photo of Javier Perez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ec02b51-7f2f-4cfd-a240-630c6e856a51/2/320x400.jpeg)
Javier Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071 (Online Only)
I also love working with diverse clients, including the LGBTQ+ community.
Hi! I'm a multi-cultural therapist with over 23 years of experience in social work. I've been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2012. I received my Master's Degree in social work from San Diego State University in 2004. I live and work in California, and I have worked with very diverse clients and families throughout my years in social work.
I also love working with diverse clients, including the LGBTQ+ community.
Hi! I'm a multi-cultural therapist with over 23 years of experience in social work. I've been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2012. I received my Master's Degree in social work from San Diego State University in 2004. I live and work in California, and I have worked with very diverse clients and families throughout my years in social work.
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![Photo of Larry S Hymes, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f9a77ef-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have 10 years experience working in the LGBT community.
I am Intensely DBT trained from The Linehan Institute. DBT began as the premiere treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and then grew to be successfully used for a variety of issues, including: depression, anxiety, impulsivity, couples counselling and substance addiction. I also use a variety of other practices and therapies, including: CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Informed Therapy. My process is always to ask you, the client, what it is you want, what would that look like, and what is in your way. Then we collaborate to get you there!
I have 10 years experience working in the LGBT community.
I am Intensely DBT trained from The Linehan Institute. DBT began as the premiere treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and then grew to be successfully used for a variety of issues, including: depression, anxiety, impulsivity, couples counselling and substance addiction. I also use a variety of other practices and therapies, including: CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Informed Therapy. My process is always to ask you, the client, what it is you want, what would that look like, and what is in your way. Then we collaborate to get you there!
![Photo of Renae Johnson - Open Space Therapy Collective, LPCC, ATR-BC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/230772c9-7d9b-4b85-a361-94a61e4574f5/1/320x400.png)
Open Space Therapy Collective (OSTC) was founded by and for the queer and trans community. For too many intersectional identities, clients have to educate their therapists instead of receiving the support they came in for. Not here. When you work with an OSTC therapist, you are guaranteed a mental health partner who is: A member of the LGBTQ+ community or a staunch ally, Queer and Trans-knowledgeable, Anti-racist, Sex-positive, Specializing in supporting non-monogamous relationships.
Open Space Therapy Collective (OSTC) was founded by and for the queer and trans community. For too many intersectional identities, clients have to educate their therapists instead of receiving the support they came in for. Not here. When you work with an OSTC therapist, you are guaranteed a mental health partner who is: A member of the LGBTQ+ community or a staunch ally, Queer and Trans-knowledgeable, Anti-racist, Sex-positive, Specializing in supporting non-monogamous relationships.
![Photo of Drea N Olivares, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38472ba6-2f77-4a72-b453-18768c5e1997/1/320x400.jpeg)
Drea N Olivares
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010
Does it sometimes feel like you are struggling to just exist? As a Queer, Latina, AuDHD (Autistic/ADHD) therapist, I get it! Many spaces in this world are not designed for us, and sometimes even work against us. Your feelings of overwhelm and othered-ness are justified, but that shouldn't stop you from building the authentic life you deserve. Have you been labeled as weird, quirky, too sensitive/emotional, lazy, or overall just too much? Are you someone who does not fit the normative societal standards because of your sexual/romantic orientations, gender presentation, or for practicing consensual/ethical non-monogamy?
Does it sometimes feel like you are struggling to just exist? As a Queer, Latina, AuDHD (Autistic/ADHD) therapist, I get it! Many spaces in this world are not designed for us, and sometimes even work against us. Your feelings of overwhelm and othered-ness are justified, but that shouldn't stop you from building the authentic life you deserve. Have you been labeled as weird, quirky, too sensitive/emotional, lazy, or overall just too much? Are you someone who does not fit the normative societal standards because of your sexual/romantic orientations, gender presentation, or for practicing consensual/ethical non-monogamy?
![Photo of Brandon Gescheidle, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c12f8809-286f-4dee-b43a-3b95b32f3cb7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brandon Gescheidle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064 (Online Only)
I identify as a gay, cisgender man and enjoy working with the chronic pain and queer communities.
I do this work because I genuinely love it. I am very honest and direct with clients and encourage openness from each of us. Therapy is an opportunity to slow down, get reacquainted with ourselves, and engage in vulnerability and playfulness that is too often not accessed. I offer a supportive, completely non-judgmental space where everything and anything is on the table (believe me, as therapists, we have heard it all). Trust and comfortability take time, and I respect clients’ pace and readiness to travel in difficult directions. I also promise to (compassionately) hold you accountable to promote growth and healing.
I identify as a gay, cisgender man and enjoy working with the chronic pain and queer communities.
I do this work because I genuinely love it. I am very honest and direct with clients and encourage openness from each of us. Therapy is an opportunity to slow down, get reacquainted with ourselves, and engage in vulnerability and playfulness that is too often not accessed. I offer a supportive, completely non-judgmental space where everything and anything is on the table (believe me, as therapists, we have heard it all). Trust and comfortability take time, and I respect clients’ pace and readiness to travel in difficult directions. I also promise to (compassionately) hold you accountable to promote growth and healing.
![Photo of Aaron Freshour, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de0c41fb-8e6a-4bd0-9f9e-fe8fcad268b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aaron Freshour
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90039
My special interests include LGBTQ+ folx, artists / creative professionals, seeking connection and understanding of self and other through emotions.
Existing can be difficult. Tolerating the pressures of personal and societal histories can leave you feeling stuck; add figuring out meaning and purpose of life, and things get overwhelming. Using a straightforward, interactive style (with plenty of humor) I will assist you in bringing a new understanding to issues from the past that limit and color the present. I create a collaborative space where we make sense of all the unknowns of life; whether you are looking to heal shame, trauma, or heal anxiety or grief, I will help you can make the changes necessary to make living a bit easier and move through life with more grace.
My special interests include LGBTQ+ folx, artists / creative professionals, seeking connection and understanding of self and other through emotions.
Existing can be difficult. Tolerating the pressures of personal and societal histories can leave you feeling stuck; add figuring out meaning and purpose of life, and things get overwhelming. Using a straightforward, interactive style (with plenty of humor) I will assist you in bringing a new understanding to issues from the past that limit and color the present. I create a collaborative space where we make sense of all the unknowns of life; whether you are looking to heal shame, trauma, or heal anxiety or grief, I will help you can make the changes necessary to make living a bit easier and move through life with more grace.
![Photo of Aurora Graham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9521800f-829e-43f3-8e14-4e6fa1ad7a35/4/320x400.jpeg)
Aurora Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a queer psychotherapist whose focus is providing identity and affirming and trauma-informed mental health services with a focus on PTSD, anxiety, and relational stressors. My approach to therapy is focused on empowerment and supporting clients in connecting with their own personal power. I work with clients to help them learn new skills, shift unhelpful patterns and to improve their overall quality of life.I have worked with folks from diverse backgrounds and strive to be inclusive of individual and community needs.
Welcome! I am a queer psychotherapist whose focus is providing identity and affirming and trauma-informed mental health services with a focus on PTSD, anxiety, and relational stressors. My approach to therapy is focused on empowerment and supporting clients in connecting with their own personal power. I work with clients to help them learn new skills, shift unhelpful patterns and to improve their overall quality of life.I have worked with folks from diverse backgrounds and strive to be inclusive of individual and community needs.
![Photo of Amy Henderson, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6f3cbb7-1d01-4952-a009-ffbd2112eff6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Henderson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042 (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with young adults and LGBTQA+ folks who are survivors of trauma, sexual violence, and power-based harm. I work collaboratively with clients seeking growth, healing, and transformation in their lives due to trauma, distress, life transitions, identity exploration, or relationship issues. Together, we will use an intersectional lens to help you gain deeper insight into the underlying thoughts and patterns that underlie your distress.
I am passionate about working with young adults and LGBTQA+ folks who are survivors of trauma, sexual violence, and power-based harm. I work collaboratively with clients seeking growth, healing, and transformation in their lives due to trauma, distress, life transitions, identity exploration, or relationship issues. Together, we will use an intersectional lens to help you gain deeper insight into the underlying thoughts and patterns that underlie your distress.
![Photo of Rainer Geissler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c33fad7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Rainer Geissler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90012 (Online Only)
I'm proud to support the LGBTQ+, sex-positive, polyamorous, and non-monogamy communities and consider sexuality to be an important part of life that should be fun for everyone.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in Los Angeles, California. I strive to create an environment of compassion, authenticity and understanding, inclusive and welcoming to all clients. In working with me, you will identify the thoughts, feelings, behaviors and beliefs that are preventing you from living joyfully. I work with you to help you discover your strengths and capabilities so that you can live a life that is meaningful, rewarding and free from conflict. I believe that therapy must be engaging, non-judgmental, and supportive to facilitate growth.
I'm proud to support the LGBTQ+, sex-positive, polyamorous, and non-monogamy communities and consider sexuality to be an important part of life that should be fun for everyone.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in Los Angeles, California. I strive to create an environment of compassion, authenticity and understanding, inclusive and welcoming to all clients. In working with me, you will identify the thoughts, feelings, behaviors and beliefs that are preventing you from living joyfully. I work with you to help you discover your strengths and capabilities so that you can live a life that is meaningful, rewarding and free from conflict. I believe that therapy must be engaging, non-judgmental, and supportive to facilitate growth.
![Photo of Malea Woods, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01d3ac1b-8e4a-45ef-8d96-b5f57b8fe521/1/320x400.jpeg)
Malea Woods
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026 (Online Only)
Hi! Are you looking for a queer, feminist therapist who can support you with body image and eating disorder issues? Would you like a place to feel supported throughout the week and actually look forward to therapy? If so, we could be a good fit! I believe that therapy should be a place where you can feel safe to unpack how you're truly feeling and feel like you have skills to help you move through difficult times. Seeking treatment for your eating disorder/body image issues is hard enough, so I strive to create a safe space to start the journey. My approach is LGBTQ+ affirming and rooted in Health at Every Size.
Hi! Are you looking for a queer, feminist therapist who can support you with body image and eating disorder issues? Would you like a place to feel supported throughout the week and actually look forward to therapy? If so, we could be a good fit! I believe that therapy should be a place where you can feel safe to unpack how you're truly feeling and feel like you have skills to help you move through difficult times. Seeking treatment for your eating disorder/body image issues is hard enough, so I strive to create a safe space to start the journey. My approach is LGBTQ+ affirming and rooted in Health at Every Size.
See more therapy options for Los Angeles
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Los Angeles
- Baldwin Hills
- Beverly Hills
- Century City
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- Glassell Park
- Hollywood
- Huntington Park
- Playa Vista
- Silver Lake
- View Park
- West Hollywood
- 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.