LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Martinez, CA
My primary focus areas include: trauma, grief, racial identity exploration, queer identity exploration, ethical non-monogamy, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and the rediscovery of self.
I believe you are the expert in your life. I believe the decision to seek therapy can be beautiful, and complicated because such is life. Healing isn’t linear and is a journey that can be filled with a variety of feelings and emotions–expansion, discomfort, learning, relearning, and unlearning. My goal is to co-create a space and container that will allow you to explore, discover, and tap into parts of yourself unknown to you. I am committed to using a healing-centered, trauma-informed lens and feel your journey of holistic transformation is unique and valuable.
My primary focus areas include: trauma, grief, racial identity exploration, queer identity exploration, ethical non-monogamy, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and the rediscovery of self.
I believe you are the expert in your life. I believe the decision to seek therapy can be beautiful, and complicated because such is life. Healing isn’t linear and is a journey that can be filled with a variety of feelings and emotions–expansion, discomfort, learning, relearning, and unlearning. My goal is to co-create a space and container that will allow you to explore, discover, and tap into parts of yourself unknown to you. I am committed to using a healing-centered, trauma-informed lens and feel your journey of holistic transformation is unique and valuable.
Hello, my name is Sara Vazquez-Cutler, and I am a first-generation Latina. My pronouns are she/her/they and I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my Master's of Science in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling through CSU Fresno. I have been working in the psychotherapy field for the past 5 years as an MFT trainee, registered associate MFT, and now as a Licensed MFT. I view therapy as a collaborative approach between you and me working toward the same goals.
Hello, my name is Sara Vazquez-Cutler, and I am a first-generation Latina. My pronouns are she/her/they and I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my Master's of Science in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling through CSU Fresno. I have been working in the psychotherapy field for the past 5 years as an MFT trainee, registered associate MFT, and now as a Licensed MFT. I view therapy as a collaborative approach between you and me working toward the same goals.
Has your life suffered because of trauma you have experienced? I work with individuals, couples, and families to overcome their challenges related to abuse and trauma as well as anxiety, depression, and interpersonal issues. I have worked with survivors of sexual trauma and domestic violence, the LGBT community and unique concerns within that community, and individuals who struggle with co-occurring mental illness and substance use. I'm also familiar with the struggles you may have in managing a chronic illness. I value the importance of creating a safe, non-judgmental space to work on yourself.
Has your life suffered because of trauma you have experienced? I work with individuals, couples, and families to overcome their challenges related to abuse and trauma as well as anxiety, depression, and interpersonal issues. I have worked with survivors of sexual trauma and domestic violence, the LGBT community and unique concerns within that community, and individuals who struggle with co-occurring mental illness and substance use. I'm also familiar with the struggles you may have in managing a chronic illness. I value the importance of creating a safe, non-judgmental space to work on yourself.
Jill Gover, Ph.D., PSY13880, is a clinical psychologist, specializing in codependency, mood disorders, stress management, self-esteem, chronic pain, aging, grief & loss, and trauma issues. She uses evidence-based treatment protocols that focus on identifying strengths and building resiliencies. For the past 15 years, Dr. G has worked at The LGBT Community Center of the Desert and Desert AIDS Project, where she developed several specific treatment programs for the LGBTQ+ community, including a Long-term Survivors (LTS) therapy group for gay men aging with HIV.
Jill Gover, Ph.D., PSY13880, is a clinical psychologist, specializing in codependency, mood disorders, stress management, self-esteem, chronic pain, aging, grief & loss, and trauma issues. She uses evidence-based treatment protocols that focus on identifying strengths and building resiliencies. For the past 15 years, Dr. G has worked at The LGBT Community Center of the Desert and Desert AIDS Project, where she developed several specific treatment programs for the LGBTQ+ community, including a Long-term Survivors (LTS) therapy group for gay men aging with HIV.
I am LGBTQ+, kink and poly friendly.
Not your daddy’s therapist - $190 per 50min session. If you are looking for a therapist just like every other, then keep looking. I am holistic, young, experimental, polyamorous, extremely open-minded, spiritual, transpersonal, neurodiverse, weird, provocative, quirky, heteroflexible, and a sparkle of queer. My life's work focuses on the deconstruction of social norms including gender, masculinity/femininity, mononormativity, sexuality, professionalism, and mental health as a whole. Therapy is not a one size fits all kind of gig. I customize the way I work to match the needs, strengths, and limitations of each individual client.
I am LGBTQ+, kink and poly friendly.
Not your daddy’s therapist - $190 per 50min session. If you are looking for a therapist just like every other, then keep looking. I am holistic, young, experimental, polyamorous, extremely open-minded, spiritual, transpersonal, neurodiverse, weird, provocative, quirky, heteroflexible, and a sparkle of queer. My life's work focuses on the deconstruction of social norms including gender, masculinity/femininity, mononormativity, sexuality, professionalism, and mental health as a whole. Therapy is not a one size fits all kind of gig. I customize the way I work to match the needs, strengths, and limitations of each individual client.
Redemption Songs Family Therapy: Jessica Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinez, CA 94553
I am a woman of color, who identifies as (Mixed; Black and Salvadoran), and am a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community.
I believe everyone is unique, has strengths, and change is possible. At Redemption Songs I offer a tailor-made approach for individual and family clients. I start with understanding where you are at now, and how you got here. I help you by working collaboratively in developing goals, and I celebrate and help maintain accountability along the way. I offer an inclusive, authentic, safe space with in person/virtual appointments so you can begin your journey in being the person you know you are. Understanding your lived experiences is our passion. I guide you to understand we and everyone are constantly evolving, self-esteem.
I am a woman of color, who identifies as (Mixed; Black and Salvadoran), and am a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community.
I believe everyone is unique, has strengths, and change is possible. At Redemption Songs I offer a tailor-made approach for individual and family clients. I start with understanding where you are at now, and how you got here. I help you by working collaboratively in developing goals, and I celebrate and help maintain accountability along the way. I offer an inclusive, authentic, safe space with in person/virtual appointments so you can begin your journey in being the person you know you are. Understanding your lived experiences is our passion. I guide you to understand we and everyone are constantly evolving, self-esteem.
I am Wyatt Darling, a licensed psychotherapist with a BBS in California. Previously employed at SpaceX as their in-house psychotherapist and Mindfulness Instructor, I provide helpful and supportive approaches to life's challenges. I give step-by-step guidance on how to improve communication, relationships, and mindset agility; motivating and inspiring individuals to live their best life.
I am Wyatt Darling, a licensed psychotherapist with a BBS in California. Previously employed at SpaceX as their in-house psychotherapist and Mindfulness Instructor, I provide helpful and supportive approaches to life's challenges. I give step-by-step guidance on how to improve communication, relationships, and mindset agility; motivating and inspiring individuals to live their best life.
Liz Eichmann @ The Connective
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinez, CA 94553
I have experience working with both children and adults and specialize in anxiety disorders, LGBTQI2A, gender diversity, sexual minorities. sexual trauma, and all stages of a person's birth journey (family planning, early pregnancy loss, abortion, labor, and postpartum).
I have experience working with both children and adults and specialize in anxiety disorders, LGBTQI2A, gender diversity, sexual minorities. sexual trauma, and all stages of a person's birth journey (family planning, early pregnancy loss, abortion, labor, and postpartum).
Do you have trauma, anxiety or depression and feel ready to work on yourself? Perhaps you are new to therapy but feel motivated or inspired to heal and work through emotions, conflicts or blockages to living a more fulfilling life. Have you had other therapies but feel “it’s time” to go deeper and explore root causes of patterns and issues? Do you feel you are in an “awakening“ and hope to work with a Transpersonal Therapist to support the integration of your higher or Whole/Core Self?
Do you have trauma, anxiety or depression and feel ready to work on yourself? Perhaps you are new to therapy but feel motivated or inspired to heal and work through emotions, conflicts or blockages to living a more fulfilling life. Have you had other therapies but feel “it’s time” to go deeper and explore root causes of patterns and issues? Do you feel you are in an “awakening“ and hope to work with a Transpersonal Therapist to support the integration of your higher or Whole/Core Self?
Brandi Shae Ellis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinez, CA 94553 (Online Only)
Brandi uses the following individualized & evidence based approaches during treatment: • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) • Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) • Motivational Interviewing • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) •
Brandi uses the following individualized & evidence based approaches during treatment: • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) • Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) • Motivational Interviewing • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) •
Hello, I'm Jaimi Martin LCWS, PH-C. I specialize in childhood trauma using EMDR, and postpartum depression and anxiety, using a feminist viewpoint. I work with individuals ages 12 and up, with a focus on life transitions. I support people in becoming their true selves. I've always worked in collaboration with others and found working as a therapist allowed that work to be more meaningful and deeper.
Hello, I'm Jaimi Martin LCWS, PH-C. I specialize in childhood trauma using EMDR, and postpartum depression and anxiety, using a feminist viewpoint. I work with individuals ages 12 and up, with a focus on life transitions. I support people in becoming their true selves. I've always worked in collaboration with others and found working as a therapist allowed that work to be more meaningful and deeper.
15 Second Videos
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Redemption Songs Family Therapy: Jessica Smith
Carrie Gajowski
Are you in a "caterpillar stage" of life? You sense that you could be more, but you find yourself limited by negative thoughts and/or overwhelming emotions. Or are you in a "chrysalis stage"? Your whole life seems to have disintegrated into nothing recognizable, and you are struggling to make sense of it all. From a foundation of empathy, acceptance, compassion, and respect, I provide a safe and supportive environment in which to grow and/or heal. I work from a "client-centered" approach that helps you find your own answers and healing from within.
Are you in a "caterpillar stage" of life? You sense that you could be more, but you find yourself limited by negative thoughts and/or overwhelming emotions. Or are you in a "chrysalis stage"? Your whole life seems to have disintegrated into nothing recognizable, and you are struggling to make sense of it all. From a foundation of empathy, acceptance, compassion, and respect, I provide a safe and supportive environment in which to grow and/or heal. I work from a "client-centered" approach that helps you find your own answers and healing from within.
The thought of starting therapy can feel overwhelming. Sometimes we are ashamed to ask for help, or embarrassed by what we are seeking help for. The truth is, though, that in order to move forward, we have to face those things that are causing our pain and unhappiness. And sometimes we need help to do that. Asking for help takes courage. Allowing oneself to be vulnerable takes strength.
The thought of starting therapy can feel overwhelming. Sometimes we are ashamed to ask for help, or embarrassed by what we are seeking help for. The truth is, though, that in order to move forward, we have to face those things that are causing our pain and unhappiness. And sometimes we need help to do that. Asking for help takes courage. Allowing oneself to be vulnerable takes strength.
We all face challenges in our lives and sometimes need extra help and support to help us overcome them. I offer a safe, judgement-free space to explore even the most difficult matters. My style is relational and collaborative. One of the most important aspects for achieving success in therapy is the relationship between the therapist and the client. I believe that you are the expert on yourself and your family and that you hold the key to achieving the life you want to live.
We all face challenges in our lives and sometimes need extra help and support to help us overcome them. I offer a safe, judgement-free space to explore even the most difficult matters. My style is relational and collaborative. One of the most important aspects for achieving success in therapy is the relationship between the therapist and the client. I believe that you are the expert on yourself and your family and that you hold the key to achieving the life you want to live.
Maria A Garay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CAMF
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinez, CA 94553
I work with clients from a client-centered approach which is intended to provide the safe space needed for healing. Together we will target debilitating symptoms. I work with adolescents and adults in individual and family settings. and couples seeking support in their relationship. I work with people seeking awareness on how to improve their life and support in achieving their goals. Together we will restore healthy lifestyle patterns and plan for future success. Teens, adults and couples often can suffer from the same depressive, anxious and traumatic experiences, but will need different support to heal.
I work with clients from a client-centered approach which is intended to provide the safe space needed for healing. Together we will target debilitating symptoms. I work with adolescents and adults in individual and family settings. and couples seeking support in their relationship. I work with people seeking awareness on how to improve their life and support in achieving their goals. Together we will restore healthy lifestyle patterns and plan for future success. Teens, adults and couples often can suffer from the same depressive, anxious and traumatic experiences, but will need different support to heal.
Hello, I’m Jennifer! My name is Jennifer Cowley. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Butte County, California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I have a passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. I enjoy working with adults 18-65 specializing in anxiety, stress, perinatal disorders, grief and loss, depression, mood disorders, and trauma.
Hello, I’m Jennifer! My name is Jennifer Cowley. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Butte County, California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I have a passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. I enjoy working with adults 18-65 specializing in anxiety, stress, perinatal disorders, grief and loss, depression, mood disorders, and trauma.
Carrie Gajowski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Martinez, CA 94553 (Online Only)
Narcissistic and emotional abuse can leave us feeling confused, hurt, and desperate for answers. You may have thought you found your soulmate, but instead you find yourself in a very complicated relationship. You may feel alone and isolated, blaming yourself for how badly the relationship is going. Instead of being in this amazing relationship you thought you had signed up for, you are now studying everything you can about narcissism and narcissistic abuse. But you’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to leave this person but you don’t know how. You know deep down that it is time to do something different.
Narcissistic and emotional abuse can leave us feeling confused, hurt, and desperate for answers. You may have thought you found your soulmate, but instead you find yourself in a very complicated relationship. You may feel alone and isolated, blaming yourself for how badly the relationship is going. Instead of being in this amazing relationship you thought you had signed up for, you are now studying everything you can about narcissism and narcissistic abuse. But you’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to leave this person but you don’t know how. You know deep down that it is time to do something different.
It can be common for many of us to struggle with multiple sources of stress that cause us to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and depressed. Sometimes having experienced traumatic events, unhealthy relationships, or a sense of isolation can leave us feeling disconnected and dissatisfied. Difficult life circumstances can take our feet out from under us and move us off course, taking us further away from the life we want.
It can be common for many of us to struggle with multiple sources of stress that cause us to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and depressed. Sometimes having experienced traumatic events, unhealthy relationships, or a sense of isolation can leave us feeling disconnected and dissatisfied. Difficult life circumstances can take our feet out from under us and move us off course, taking us further away from the life we want.
My name is Kari Hidalgo, and I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California and Colorado. I have provided direct counseling services for over ten years and telemental health services for over five years. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families as they navigate different seasons of life. I have helped clients manage trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, stress, pre and postpartum depression, difficult relationships, and parenting challenges while encouraging, supporting, holding hope, exploring self-care, and helping them identify healthy boundaries.
My name is Kari Hidalgo, and I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California and Colorado. I have provided direct counseling services for over ten years and telemental health services for over five years. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families as they navigate different seasons of life. I have helped clients manage trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, stress, pre and postpartum depression, difficult relationships, and parenting challenges while encouraging, supporting, holding hope, exploring self-care, and helping them identify healthy boundaries.
My specialty is Domestic Violence -child abuse/sexual assault. I have been working with VOC from the DA's office for over 10 years providing services to both men and women/children in crises situations. I work with CCC Superior Court, Family and Criminal to help individuals seek visitations with their children after an arrest or involvement with CFS. I also perform as a 730 expert. I provide couples therapy, reunification therapy. I see teens who are having trouble in school and at home. I work with whole families to teach communication tools and implement behavior modification tools. I am a systems therapist.
My specialty is Domestic Violence -child abuse/sexual assault. I have been working with VOC from the DA's office for over 10 years providing services to both men and women/children in crises situations. I work with CCC Superior Court, Family and Criminal to help individuals seek visitations with their children after an arrest or involvement with CFS. I also perform as a 730 expert. I provide couples therapy, reunification therapy. I see teens who are having trouble in school and at home. I work with whole families to teach communication tools and implement behavior modification tools. I am a systems therapist.
See more therapy options for Martinez
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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.