LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Midway City, CA

Photo of Gilberto Garcia-Torres, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gilberto Garcia-Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midway City, CA 92655
Gil García-Torres is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing since 1993. He graduated from California State University Long Beach, with a Master of Social Work. He practices from a multi-cultural strengths-based lens assisting clients in making changes to increase their life satisfaction. He specializes in the treatment of adults exposed to adverse life events, as well as childhood and cultural trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, grief and loss, ADHD, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Gil García-Torres is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing since 1993. He graduated from California State University Long Beach, with a Master of Social Work. He practices from a multi-cultural strengths-based lens assisting clients in making changes to increase their life satisfaction. He specializes in the treatment of adults exposed to adverse life events, as well as childhood and cultural trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, grief and loss, ADHD, and LGBTQ+ issues.
(657) 571-6951 View (657) 571-6951
Photo of Melyssa DePaolo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melyssa DePaolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midway City, CA 92655
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker (since 2013) who is passionate and dedicated to mental health and the adventures of the human experience. I enjoy working with people who are curious about their life and motivated for change, growth and healing. I specialize in PTSD & trauma, LGBTQIA+ affirming, integrative attachment therapy, adoption/foster care related issues with children, families and individuals. Other areas of experience and specialty include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, OCD, phobias, and somatic sensorimotor integration.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker (since 2013) who is passionate and dedicated to mental health and the adventures of the human experience. I enjoy working with people who are curious about their life and motivated for change, growth and healing. I specialize in PTSD & trauma, LGBTQIA+ affirming, integrative attachment therapy, adoption/foster care related issues with children, families and individuals. Other areas of experience and specialty include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, OCD, phobias, and somatic sensorimotor integration.
(657) 837-1525 View (657) 837-1525
Photo of Kelley Kennedy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midway City, CA 92655
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I have been working with children, teens, adults and families for over 20 years. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I have been working with children, teens, adults and families for over 20 years. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California.
(657) 571-6241 View (657) 571-6241
Photo of Marianne Sharon, LPCC
Marianne Sharon
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Midway City, CA 92655
Marianne M. Sharon is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California who has been practicing since 2022. She has a Master's Degree in Community Counseling, a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, and an Associate's Degree in Education. Marianne offers more than 10 years professional experience working with clients and families from a strength-based, solution-focused perspective to improve the emotional well-being of clients and their families.
Marianne M. Sharon is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California who has been practicing since 2022. She has a Master's Degree in Community Counseling, a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, and an Associate's Degree in Education. Marianne offers more than 10 years professional experience working with clients and families from a strength-based, solution-focused perspective to improve the emotional well-being of clients and their families.
(657) 300-3963 View (657) 300-3963
Photo of Lia Ek, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lia Ek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midway City, CA 92655
When we live in a society that is obsessed with happiness and perfection, it is not uncommon to feel inadequate. You are not broken. You are valuable and worthy of love. I help my clients not to live perfect lives, but to live meaningful ones. I am here to help you navigate issues related to everyday life stressors, adjusting to new challenges, roles, and situations, anxiety, depression, substance use, postpartum depression, and relationship issues. Choosing a therapist can be overwhelming. I believe that you should find someone you feel comfortable working with. This can take some time, but it is worth it.
When we live in a society that is obsessed with happiness and perfection, it is not uncommon to feel inadequate. You are not broken. You are valuable and worthy of love. I help my clients not to live perfect lives, but to live meaningful ones. I am here to help you navigate issues related to everyday life stressors, adjusting to new challenges, roles, and situations, anxiety, depression, substance use, postpartum depression, and relationship issues. Choosing a therapist can be overwhelming. I believe that you should find someone you feel comfortable working with. This can take some time, but it is worth it.
(714) 409-0741 View (714) 409-0741

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Sylva D. Frock, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sylva D. Frock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647  (Online Only)
I have worked for many years within the LGBTQIA+ community, and am available for assistance with gender or transitional issues, including 1st/2nd letters.
Telehealth only - Licensed in CA (PSY26465), CO (PSY0006435) and TX (31736) - openings available. I’m a Licensed Psychologist with 25+ years providing therapy, consultation and life skills training. I provide individual psychotherapy focused on your whole self: mind-body-spirit and on integrating all aspects of oneself at a more balanced level. I work to create a therapeutic relationship where clients feel both safe and challenged. Our work will increase your ability to live more self-attuned and to integrate the many aspects of self, your relationships and your life, so you can create a more intentional, healthier and joyful life.
I have worked for many years within the LGBTQIA+ community, and am available for assistance with gender or transitional issues, including 1st/2nd letters.
Telehealth only - Licensed in CA (PSY26465), CO (PSY0006435) and TX (31736) - openings available. I’m a Licensed Psychologist with 25+ years providing therapy, consultation and life skills training. I provide individual psychotherapy focused on your whole self: mind-body-spirit and on integrating all aspects of oneself at a more balanced level. I work to create a therapeutic relationship where clients feel both safe and challenged. Our work will increase your ability to live more self-attuned and to integrate the many aspects of self, your relationships and your life, so you can create a more intentional, healthier and joyful life.
(562) 632-4002 View (562) 632-4002
Photo of Maria Tran, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Maria Tran
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Fountain Valley, CA 92708  (Online Only)
As a queer, first generation, Asian American therapist, I view therapy through an intersectionality lens to understand the layering experiences of the identities we hold.
Taking the first steps towards healing our inner wounds is a journey that does not have to be made alone. Therapy is a space for your to be seen, heard, and foster a sense of security. With a client centered approach, I am here to walk side by side you, with a goal of making you feel empowered to make the positive changes you want to make for your life. By navigating our past experiences, we uncover patterns, messages, and beliefs we internalize that holds us back in our present moments. Gaining awareness of our past, and making new meaning, we are able to create new experiences for our future.
As a queer, first generation, Asian American therapist, I view therapy through an intersectionality lens to understand the layering experiences of the identities we hold.
Taking the first steps towards healing our inner wounds is a journey that does not have to be made alone. Therapy is a space for your to be seen, heard, and foster a sense of security. With a client centered approach, I am here to walk side by side you, with a goal of making you feel empowered to make the positive changes you want to make for your life. By navigating our past experiences, we uncover patterns, messages, and beliefs we internalize that holds us back in our present moments. Gaining awareness of our past, and making new meaning, we are able to create new experiences for our future.
(562) 269-1466 View (562) 269-1466
Photo of Emily Belford, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Belford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I am a queer, neurodivergent nerd and as such, providing a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals is very important to me.
My name is Emily (she/her), and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that provides therapy in California. As your therapist, my goal is to walk alongside you with the understanding that you are the expert in your own life. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can express your full self, and where I'll bring my full self with all of our messy imperfections. Research shows that the quality of the relationship between client and therapist is the strongest predictor for positive therapeutic outcomes, so I always want to make sure folks are comfortable and happy with me as their therapist.
I am a queer, neurodivergent nerd and as such, providing a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals is very important to me.
My name is Emily (she/her), and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that provides therapy in California. As your therapist, my goal is to walk alongside you with the understanding that you are the expert in your own life. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can express your full self, and where I'll bring my full self with all of our messy imperfections. Research shows that the quality of the relationship between client and therapist is the strongest predictor for positive therapeutic outcomes, so I always want to make sure folks are comfortable and happy with me as their therapist.
(714) 793-0756 View (714) 793-0756
Photo of Brooklynn Kendall - The Nest Counseling Center, INC  Lgbtq Therapists, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Nest Counseling Center, INC Lgbtq Therapists
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westminster, CA 92683
Providing in person and telehealth care throughout California. Trained in LGBTQ and Allied Care, we are a Group Practice that is diverse in identity, age and backgrounds. We work with Individuals, Couples, Gay Men, Lesbian Women, Trans and Non Binary folx, Neurodivergent, Sex Workers, Poly and ENM, Furries and Religious Trauma. We provide a safe and affirming environment so you can heal.
Providing in person and telehealth care throughout California. Trained in LGBTQ and Allied Care, we are a Group Practice that is diverse in identity, age and backgrounds. We work with Individuals, Couples, Gay Men, Lesbian Women, Trans and Non Binary folx, Neurodivergent, Sex Workers, Poly and ENM, Furries and Religious Trauma. We provide a safe and affirming environment so you can heal.
(657) 530-5270 View (657) 530-5270
Photo of Ryan Morgan, PsyD, Psychologist
Ryan Morgan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92843
While he has extensive experience with individuals from the LGBTQ+ communities, he works with and welcomes all.
Ryan Morgan, Psy. D. is a licensed psychologist who has been practicing since 2002. He graduated from the California School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles with a doctorate degree in clinical psychology. Ryan believes working together, with compassion and understanding, provides a professional and safe environment without fear of judgment or stereotype. His therapeutic approach draws from a variety of techniques in order to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. He enjoys forming genuine connections with others, helping them through their process, and learning from them along the way.
While he has extensive experience with individuals from the LGBTQ+ communities, he works with and welcomes all.
Ryan Morgan, Psy. D. is a licensed psychologist who has been practicing since 2002. He graduated from the California School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles with a doctorate degree in clinical psychology. Ryan believes working together, with compassion and understanding, provides a professional and safe environment without fear of judgment or stereotype. His therapeutic approach draws from a variety of techniques in order to incorporate what is most helpful for each individual. He enjoys forming genuine connections with others, helping them through their process, and learning from them along the way.
(657) 530-5292 View (657) 530-5292
Photo of Ben N Quan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben N Quan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92842  (Online Only)
As LGBTQ minorities, we often find ourselves wondering "where is my community?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we don't feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder... when is this going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just "don't get it." We really want someone who can connect to us and make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
As LGBTQ minorities, we often find ourselves wondering "where is my community?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we don't feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder... when is this going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just "don't get it." We really want someone who can connect to us and make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
(951) 227-7430 View (951) 227-7430
Photo of Laurie Fitzgerald, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laurie Fitzgerald
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
I'm Laurie Fitzgerald, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I help people struggling with anxiety, depression, domestic abuse/violence, trauma, PTSD, LGBTQIA+ issues, and more. My work integrates relationship-based and cognitive-behavioral approaches. I strongly believe in the inherent ability of every individual to find their own answers to the big questions that bring people into therapy. I see my role as a therapist primarily as a facilitator and guide. During times of struggle or uncertainty, we often need someone who can ask questions and provide the space for inner answers to be found.
I'm Laurie Fitzgerald, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I help people struggling with anxiety, depression, domestic abuse/violence, trauma, PTSD, LGBTQIA+ issues, and more. My work integrates relationship-based and cognitive-behavioral approaches. I strongly believe in the inherent ability of every individual to find their own answers to the big questions that bring people into therapy. I see my role as a therapist primarily as a facilitator and guide. During times of struggle or uncertainty, we often need someone who can ask questions and provide the space for inner answers to be found.
(619) 329-8164 View (619) 329-8164
Photo of Andrea Martel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Martel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92708
Hello, I'm Andrea Martel, an LCSW with over 25 years of experience with individuals with various challenges such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and relationship issues. I also counsel clients who are LGBTQIA+, have parenting issues, infertility and postpartum depression, and have substance abuse issues. My training and skills are in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-based therapy, and Client-centered modalities. I feel the relationship with your counselor is paramount, and I want you to feel safe. I will meet you where you are and help you through your journey.
Hello, I'm Andrea Martel, an LCSW with over 25 years of experience with individuals with various challenges such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and relationship issues. I also counsel clients who are LGBTQIA+, have parenting issues, infertility and postpartum depression, and have substance abuse issues. My training and skills are in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-based therapy, and Client-centered modalities. I feel the relationship with your counselor is paramount, and I want you to feel safe. I will meet you where you are and help you through your journey.
(310) 692-7594 View (310) 692-7594
Photo of Christi Gallon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christi Gallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
(657) 571-6400 View (657) 571-6400
Photo of Valentina Torrence, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valentina Torrence
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92844  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Welcome! My name is Valentina Torrence. I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist committed to guiding clients through life's challenges. Whether it's navigating relationships, life transitions, trauma, or grief, I offer empathetic support and a safe space for growth. I'm truly passionate about helping individuals achieve positive change and healing. My approach centers on mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. I also draw from solution-focused therapy, psychodynamic, and narrative therapy techniques to create a tailored treatment plan that suits your unique needs.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Welcome! My name is Valentina Torrence. I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist committed to guiding clients through life's challenges. Whether it's navigating relationships, life transitions, trauma, or grief, I offer empathetic support and a safe space for growth. I'm truly passionate about helping individuals achieve positive change and healing. My approach centers on mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. I also draw from solution-focused therapy, psychodynamic, and narrative therapy techniques to create a tailored treatment plan that suits your unique needs.
(657) 256-3846 View (657) 256-3846
Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialities. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialities. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570
Photo of Kathlynn Gates, ASW
Kathlynn Gates
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with issues stemming from substance abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and personality disorders.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with issues stemming from substance abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and personality disorders.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(714) 276-6308 View (714) 276-6308
Photo of Jacqueline Vargas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline Vargas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Hi! My name is Jackie (they/them) and I am a first-generation Mexican-American, LGBTQ+ identifying (genderfluid/queer), psychotherapist. My focus is working with young adults exploring their sexual orientation, & gender identity, experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, heartbreak, phase-of-life stressors, LGBTQ+-related trauma & unwanted experiences. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, relational, and tailored to each client. My top modalities are relational therapy, compassion focused and I have an overall, eclectic approach. I create a safe environment with empathy, authenticity, accountability, and humor
Hi! My name is Jackie (they/them) and I am a first-generation Mexican-American, LGBTQ+ identifying (genderfluid/queer), psychotherapist. My focus is working with young adults exploring their sexual orientation, & gender identity, experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, heartbreak, phase-of-life stressors, LGBTQ+-related trauma & unwanted experiences. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, relational, and tailored to each client. My top modalities are relational therapy, compassion focused and I have an overall, eclectic approach. I create a safe environment with empathy, authenticity, accountability, and humor
(707) 615-0808 View (707) 615-0808
Photo of Dana Miscia
Dana Miscia
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I Specialize in supporting those who want to make a difference in their lives and assist with the motivation in reaching their goals. I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self esteem, life transition, lgbt, motivation, goal setting, and other related concerns.
I Specialize in supporting those who want to make a difference in their lives and assist with the motivation in reaching their goals. I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self esteem, life transition, lgbt, motivation, goal setting, and other related concerns.
(657) 500-3891 View (657) 500-3891
Photo of Laura Wise, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Wise
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92605
I specialize in providing therapy for women navigating high-stress or high-visibility environments, focusing on empowerment, relationship dynamics, anxiety management, and executive/leadership challenges. My practice primarily revolves around individual counseling sessions, emphasizing the efficacy of weekly meetings for fostering substantial, enduring progress. Additionally, I bring specialized training and experience in supporting the LGBT community and individuals healing from high-control groups, such as religions or cults, which I integrate into our work when relevant.
I specialize in providing therapy for women navigating high-stress or high-visibility environments, focusing on empowerment, relationship dynamics, anxiety management, and executive/leadership challenges. My practice primarily revolves around individual counseling sessions, emphasizing the efficacy of weekly meetings for fostering substantial, enduring progress. Additionally, I bring specialized training and experience in supporting the LGBT community and individuals healing from high-control groups, such as religions or cults, which I integrate into our work when relevant.
(323) 275-1722 View (323) 275-1722

See more therapy options for Midway City

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.