LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Rainer Geissler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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.
(415) 322-0761 View (415) 322-0761
Photo of David Strah, MA, LMFT, 114637, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Strah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, 114637
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
I’ve helped countless members of the LGBTQ+ community find peace, and I can help you, too.
For as long as you can remember, you’ve felt different. You learned early on that there were parts of your identity that you had to hide. So, you built a façade to protect yourself. You felt safer pretending you were just like everybody else. As you’ve gotten older, you’ve learned to accept these parts of your identity more, but it still feels like you’re hiding. You still watch what you say and how you behave around certain people. And a part of you continues trying to conform to society’s expectations. You wish you could just be your authentic self without fear of judgment, but you don’t know how. You feel trapped and helpless.
I’ve helped countless members of the LGBTQ+ community find peace, and I can help you, too.
For as long as you can remember, you’ve felt different. You learned early on that there were parts of your identity that you had to hide. So, you built a façade to protect yourself. You felt safer pretending you were just like everybody else. As you’ve gotten older, you’ve learned to accept these parts of your identity more, but it still feels like you’re hiding. You still watch what you say and how you behave around certain people. And a part of you continues trying to conform to society’s expectations. You wish you could just be your authentic self without fear of judgment, but you don’t know how. You feel trapped and helpless.
(213) 325-6846 View (213) 325-6846
Photo of Jason Rizzo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Rizzo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I work with the LGBTQ+ community, those in the entertainment industry, and many others.
My passion lies in helping you find your path to increased happiness and living a life that is authentically yours. Through our conversations, you will gain deeper insight into elements in your life that might be challenging to shift. Together we will work to understand your experiences, process feelings and create inner peace and acceptance from within.
I work with the LGBTQ+ community, those in the entertainment industry, and many others.
My passion lies in helping you find your path to increased happiness and living a life that is authentically yours. Through our conversations, you will gain deeper insight into elements in your life that might be challenging to shift. Together we will work to understand your experiences, process feelings and create inner peace and acceptance from within.
(323) 673-8443 View (323) 673-8443
Photo of Jean Thomas - Jay Thomas , PsyD, Psychologist
Jay Thomas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90041
As a queer & trans psychologist who believes in providing clients with the tools they need to thrive, I believe therapy can be a space where folks can learn how to cope with difficult experiences and find new ways to move through the world. Everyone deserves to have a safe place to heal and shift and grow.
As a queer & trans psychologist who believes in providing clients with the tools they need to thrive, I believe therapy can be a space where folks can learn how to cope with difficult experiences and find new ways to move through the world. Everyone deserves to have a safe place to heal and shift and grow.
(323) 955-5674 View (323) 955-5674
Photo of Connor McCabe, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Connor McCabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
I work with a wide range of people, though through my own personal experience and specialized education, I have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community, creative individuals, couples and those with relational trauma.
Change can feel impossible. No matter how badly we want it, we feel stuck in a loop trying the same things over and over. We want a sense of relief, for things to feel easier, but it can feel hopeless constantly fighting the same battles. Despite this, I do believe we are all inherently resilient. We possess unique strengths, but they get shielded from our view because societal expectations and past experiences box us into how we think we ‘should’ be or act. We no longer see ourselves as who we actually are, but rather who the world has told us we are. We want to hold more hopeful beliefs about ourselves and the future.
I work with a wide range of people, though through my own personal experience and specialized education, I have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community, creative individuals, couples and those with relational trauma.
Change can feel impossible. No matter how badly we want it, we feel stuck in a loop trying the same things over and over. We want a sense of relief, for things to feel easier, but it can feel hopeless constantly fighting the same battles. Despite this, I do believe we are all inherently resilient. We possess unique strengths, but they get shielded from our view because societal expectations and past experiences box us into how we think we ‘should’ be or act. We no longer see ourselves as who we actually are, but rather who the world has told us we are. We want to hold more hopeful beliefs about ourselves and the future.
(213) 370-5055 View (213) 370-5055
Photo of Kyle McCurdy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle McCurdy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
As a queer therapist, I provide a secure and nurturing space for you to come as you are.
Individuals reach out to me because they're feeling stuck in life. They've tried everything they can think of to move forward to fix the issues on their own and need some assistance to move through these roadblock. Often, they are struggling in their relationships and their self-worth. These folks tend to benefit from building a variety of healthy skills to manage the day-to-day symptoms while we simultaneously work to resolve past negative life experiences that have created the issues.
As a queer therapist, I provide a secure and nurturing space for you to come as you are.
Individuals reach out to me because they're feeling stuck in life. They've tried everything they can think of to move forward to fix the issues on their own and need some assistance to move through these roadblock. Often, they are struggling in their relationships and their self-worth. These folks tend to benefit from building a variety of healthy skills to manage the day-to-day symptoms while we simultaneously work to resolve past negative life experiences that have created the issues.
(213) 660-4480 View (213) 660-4480
Photo of Terra Friedman - Open Space Therapy Collective, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Terra Friedman - Open Space Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
As a sex-positive, anti-racist, LGBTQ therapist, I’ll help you to stop outsourcing your self-worth, and to tune into your inner voice and your body’s messages.
You’ve been told a lot about who you should be, how your life should look, or whom you should date or love. You feel like you can’t hear your own desires over the noise of other people's opinions or suggestions. You can’t find that inner sense that guides you past the anxiety that is constantly weighing you down. You can see the relationship, job, or sense of confidence in your mind, but feel lost and overwhelmed. You dream of feeling empowered and confident, knowing what you want and how to get it. You have a brilliant light–let’s help you shine!
As a sex-positive, anti-racist, LGBTQ therapist, I’ll help you to stop outsourcing your self-worth, and to tune into your inner voice and your body’s messages.
You’ve been told a lot about who you should be, how your life should look, or whom you should date or love. You feel like you can’t hear your own desires over the noise of other people's opinions or suggestions. You can’t find that inner sense that guides you past the anxiety that is constantly weighing you down. You can see the relationship, job, or sense of confidence in your mind, but feel lost and overwhelmed. You dream of feeling empowered and confident, knowing what you want and how to get it. You have a brilliant light–let’s help you shine!
(818) 740-3966 View (818) 740-3966
Photo of Rodrigo M Dasilva, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(323) 970-4501 View (323) 970-4501
Photo of Dr. Douglas G. Sadownick, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Douglas G. Sadownick
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019
I founded the Antioch University LGBT Specialization and Colors LGBTQ Youth Counseling Center in 2006.
I come from the heart. I'm here to help you feel safe and secure. I am here to go on a journey with you to find your true self, to lift depression, to work with anxiety, and transform this time of crisis into stronger relationships and more heart-felt productivity. As a gay, Jewish man, I have an ear for all people struggling with difference and oppression. I can go deep with you into healing old trauma. Or I can help you coach you with day-to-day career and relationship challenges. If you need a therapy to jump-start new growth in the New Year, I am here for you on that quest of both self-discovery and seeing more palpable results.
I founded the Antioch University LGBT Specialization and Colors LGBTQ Youth Counseling Center in 2006.
I come from the heart. I'm here to help you feel safe and secure. I am here to go on a journey with you to find your true self, to lift depression, to work with anxiety, and transform this time of crisis into stronger relationships and more heart-felt productivity. As a gay, Jewish man, I have an ear for all people struggling with difference and oppression. I can go deep with you into healing old trauma. Or I can help you coach you with day-to-day career and relationship challenges. If you need a therapy to jump-start new growth in the New Year, I am here for you on that quest of both self-discovery and seeing more palpable results.
(323) 739-4971 View (323) 739-4971
Photo of Sarah Beaver, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sarah Beaver
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90013
My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirmative and non-monogamy informed.
You made it here, which means you've decided to take a step toward improving and nurturing your mental health - amazing! No matter what you are seeking therapy for, it's a tough thing to tackle. As your mental health provider, I aim to create a nonjudgemental, safe space for you to explore your life experiences, challenges, and goals. I believe that the therapeutic process is relational and ever-evolving. Just as we are our own worst enemies, we are also our biggest allies, and I am here to help you strengthen that alliance with yourself.
My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirmative and non-monogamy informed.
You made it here, which means you've decided to take a step toward improving and nurturing your mental health - amazing! No matter what you are seeking therapy for, it's a tough thing to tackle. As your mental health provider, I aim to create a nonjudgemental, safe space for you to explore your life experiences, challenges, and goals. I believe that the therapeutic process is relational and ever-evolving. Just as we are our own worst enemies, we are also our biggest allies, and I am here to help you strengthen that alliance with yourself.
(310) 928-6217 View (310) 928-6217
Photo of Bryan Scheihing, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bryan Scheihing
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
I work with clients of all backgrounds with a particular specialty serving the LGBTQ+ community.
I love those moments when a client has an “Aha Moment,” saying with raised awareness, “I’ve never thought about it that way before.” Perhaps this moment is in regard to helping heal an emotional wound or recognizing how to overcome a seemingly insurmountable barrier standing in the way of one’s goals. Sometimes clarifying what those goals are, discovering a path toward achieving them, then taking small/realistic steps to do so is what the therapeutic work is about. Healing emotional wounds and uncovering or remembering your strengths will help you clarify and possibly even reach your goals.
I work with clients of all backgrounds with a particular specialty serving the LGBTQ+ community.
I love those moments when a client has an “Aha Moment,” saying with raised awareness, “I’ve never thought about it that way before.” Perhaps this moment is in regard to helping heal an emotional wound or recognizing how to overcome a seemingly insurmountable barrier standing in the way of one’s goals. Sometimes clarifying what those goals are, discovering a path toward achieving them, then taking small/realistic steps to do so is what the therapeutic work is about. Healing emotional wounds and uncovering or remembering your strengths will help you clarify and possibly even reach your goals.
(213) 376-3805 View (213) 376-3805
Photo of Sarah Brock Chavez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Brock Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90039  (Online Only)
I also offer Letter Writing services for Trans and Non-binary folks with the goal of gender affirming medical treatment.
I identify as a queer, femme, Chicana therapist. I provide Psychotherapy that is Intersectional and Trauma-informed treatment. Combining techniques of traditional Psychodynamic Therapy as well as Somatic Therapy together we investigate your past and what is happening currently in your body (physical pain, ailments, sensations) in relation to environmental triggers (systemic racism, queer & trans-phobia, sexism, micro-aggressions), as well as attachment styles that inform your core beliefs to get you to a place of a fully developed and embodied sense of self and well being.
I also offer Letter Writing services for Trans and Non-binary folks with the goal of gender affirming medical treatment.
I identify as a queer, femme, Chicana therapist. I provide Psychotherapy that is Intersectional and Trauma-informed treatment. Combining techniques of traditional Psychodynamic Therapy as well as Somatic Therapy together we investigate your past and what is happening currently in your body (physical pain, ailments, sensations) in relation to environmental triggers (systemic racism, queer & trans-phobia, sexism, micro-aggressions), as well as attachment styles that inform your core beliefs to get you to a place of a fully developed and embodied sense of self and well being.
(424) 377-4514 View (424) 377-4514
Photo of Anthony Barnes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anthony Barnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028  (Online Only)
As an openly gay bi-cultural man, I’ve spent the better part of my adult life unlearning the harmful messages our world tells us about what it means to be different - that we are somehow broken or unworthy. I am here to tell you they are wrong. You are fabulous, vibrant, and deserving of all the gifts this world has to offer. I became a therapist to share what I’ve learned and to bring healing not just to queer folks, but to anyone who knows what it feels like to be left out. When we work together, you can expect a safe, affirming, and sometimes silly space where we collaborate to find real solutions you can implement right away.
As an openly gay bi-cultural man, I’ve spent the better part of my adult life unlearning the harmful messages our world tells us about what it means to be different - that we are somehow broken or unworthy. I am here to tell you they are wrong. You are fabulous, vibrant, and deserving of all the gifts this world has to offer. I became a therapist to share what I’ve learned and to bring healing not just to queer folks, but to anyone who knows what it feels like to be left out. When we work together, you can expect a safe, affirming, and sometimes silly space where we collaborate to find real solutions you can implement right away.
(818) 392-5301 View (818) 392-5301
Photo of Dr. Richard Espinoza, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Richard Espinoza
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Many have benefitted from my short-term services, including my 12-week program specific for gay men.
Above all, I love my work as a psychologist. This profession allows me to act as both scientist and artist, and I take joy from watching people evolve in their lives. Blending science & art, therapy is a unique process where we talk over events of your life, some in the distant past, and some happening currently.
Many have benefitted from my short-term services, including my 12-week program specific for gay men.
Above all, I love my work as a psychologist. This profession allows me to act as both scientist and artist, and I take joy from watching people evolve in their lives. Blending science & art, therapy is a unique process where we talk over events of your life, some in the distant past, and some happening currently.
(323) 508-7907 View (323) 508-7907
Photo of Javier Santos-Garcia, MSW, ASW
Javier Santos-Garcia
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90029
We deserve a space where our unique experiences are understood and met with compassion and respect. Navigating life with ADHD can often feel challenging and overwhelming. It can often feel just out of reach to manage emotions, maintain focus, stay organized, or feel understood. As a Latinx Queer man, I'm dedicated to social justice and advocating for you. I am committed to creating a safe, empowering space for all the identities you hold. I will focus on helping you untangle all your challenges. Together, we'll develop practical tools for building self-awareness, improving coping strategies, and fostering self-acceptance and growth.
We deserve a space where our unique experiences are understood and met with compassion and respect. Navigating life with ADHD can often feel challenging and overwhelming. It can often feel just out of reach to manage emotions, maintain focus, stay organized, or feel understood. As a Latinx Queer man, I'm dedicated to social justice and advocating for you. I am committed to creating a safe, empowering space for all the identities you hold. I will focus on helping you untangle all your challenges. Together, we'll develop practical tools for building self-awareness, improving coping strategies, and fostering self-acceptance and growth.
(818) 296-6587 View (818) 296-6587
Photo of Dominic Valdes - Therapy Is Here, MSW, LCSW, CSAT, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Therapy Is Here
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90013  (Online Only)
Give yourself permission to be vulnerable by putting yourself first. Negative and highly-critical self-talk, especially for gay men, is the root of many of our problems and addictions. You may feel “less-than” others, think poorly of yourself, or are unsure how to get your needs met. I can help you to shed light on where this inner-critic is coming from, how to quiet it, and help you rebuild your relationship with self/others. Next, we can develop tools to manage anxiety and depression, embrace your sexuality, develop a healthier relationship to sex/porn, heal infidelity, integrate love and sex, or improve your relationships.
Give yourself permission to be vulnerable by putting yourself first. Negative and highly-critical self-talk, especially for gay men, is the root of many of our problems and addictions. You may feel “less-than” others, think poorly of yourself, or are unsure how to get your needs met. I can help you to shed light on where this inner-critic is coming from, how to quiet it, and help you rebuild your relationship with self/others. Next, we can develop tools to manage anxiety and depression, embrace your sexuality, develop a healthier relationship to sex/porn, heal infidelity, integrate love and sex, or improve your relationships.
(562) 645-4643 View (562) 645-4643
Photo of Andres Sviercovich Pasquel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andres Sviercovich Pasquel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90029  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, Caregiver Issues, Eating Disorders and More! The therapeutic approach I use is tailored based on the individuals' needs and what they hope to get from therapy.
Hello, I am a therapist who enjoys diversity and helping you with your life from a non-judgmental, empathetic, and honest perspective. If you choose to work with me, know that you will have a safe space that understands multiple cultural and societal barriers. LGBTQ+, Spanish Speakers, and minorities are welcome. I want you to see therapy as a tool for you to thrive in life. The more you share, and the more you work on yourself, the better we can come up with goals that will make you heal and move forward in the right direction. Virtual Practice only
I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, Caregiver Issues, Eating Disorders and More! The therapeutic approach I use is tailored based on the individuals' needs and what they hope to get from therapy.
Hello, I am a therapist who enjoys diversity and helping you with your life from a non-judgmental, empathetic, and honest perspective. If you choose to work with me, know that you will have a safe space that understands multiple cultural and societal barriers. LGBTQ+, Spanish Speakers, and minorities are welcome. I want you to see therapy as a tool for you to thrive in life. The more you share, and the more you work on yourself, the better we can come up with goals that will make you heal and move forward in the right direction. Virtual Practice only
(818) 210-3066 View (818) 210-3066
Photo of Daniel Morales, AMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Daniel Morales
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90017
I’ve also received specialized training in working with couples and with the LGBT community.
My favorite part of being a therapist is when someone sitting across from me realizes, even if just for a moment, that they are okay. That past and present traumas, mistakes, fears, desires, pain, doubt, joy, anger, sadness, guilt, loss, and love are all part of the human experience, and that in this way they are not alone. Beyond my confidence in your humanity, I believe therapy to be the client’s own unique journey — one I’m honored to bear witness to and facilitate as best I can.
I’ve also received specialized training in working with couples and with the LGBT community.
My favorite part of being a therapist is when someone sitting across from me realizes, even if just for a moment, that they are okay. That past and present traumas, mistakes, fears, desires, pain, doubt, joy, anger, sadness, guilt, loss, and love are all part of the human experience, and that in this way they are not alone. Beyond my confidence in your humanity, I believe therapy to be the client’s own unique journey — one I’m honored to bear witness to and facilitate as best I can.
(562) 620-8249 View (562) 620-8249
Photo of Aubri Gomez - The Pink Moon Healing Collective, LCSW, MFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Pink Moon Healing Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90005
Using a person centered, feminist, culturally relevant, and queer and gender affirming lens, The Pink Moon Collectives strives to diverge from an individualist model into one that promotes community and collective healing through group virtual and in-person sessions.
The Pink Moon Healing Collective provides psychotherapy services by both licensed therapists and associates in addition to providing conjunctive services i.e. trauma recovery, art therapy, identity exploration, and therapeutic yoga offerings to enhance the therapeutic and healing process.
Using a person centered, feminist, culturally relevant, and queer and gender affirming lens, The Pink Moon Collectives strives to diverge from an individualist model into one that promotes community and collective healing through group virtual and in-person sessions.
The Pink Moon Healing Collective provides psychotherapy services by both licensed therapists and associates in addition to providing conjunctive services i.e. trauma recovery, art therapy, identity exploration, and therapeutic yoga offerings to enhance the therapeutic and healing process.
(213) 725-2994 View (213) 725-2994
Photo of Sean Carpenter, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sean Carpenter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
As a queer identified therapist, my experience finding my own sense of self-acceptance heavily informs the way I practice.
I have a deep passion for helping people find liberation from concerns that bring them to therapy. Understanding why we do things the way we do them is critical to growth, change and healing. I ground my work in warmth, compassion, authenticity and an understanding of how thoughts and emotions relate to neuro/physiological processes, as well as how past experiences inform current beliefs, thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My aim is to help you gain clarity into underlying causes of problems, provide strategies for coping and support you in taking risks and trying new ways of being, to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As a queer identified therapist, my experience finding my own sense of self-acceptance heavily informs the way I practice.
I have a deep passion for helping people find liberation from concerns that bring them to therapy. Understanding why we do things the way we do them is critical to growth, change and healing. I ground my work in warmth, compassion, authenticity and an understanding of how thoughts and emotions relate to neuro/physiological processes, as well as how past experiences inform current beliefs, thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My aim is to help you gain clarity into underlying causes of problems, provide strategies for coping and support you in taking risks and trying new ways of being, to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(323) 310-9754 View (323) 310-9754
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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.