LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Oakland, CA
Quetzal Francois
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
As a mixed-race queer woman I hold an intimate understanding of the need for a therapeutic approach that is intersectional.
I believe that inside each of our struggles there is a choice and it's from this place that we can reconnect to and reclaim our inherent wisdom and power. My intention in our work together is to help shed light on the path to help guide you home to yourself
As a mixed-race queer woman I hold an intimate understanding of the need for a therapeutic approach that is intersectional.
I believe that inside each of our struggles there is a choice and it's from this place that we can reconnect to and reclaim our inherent wisdom and power. My intention in our work together is to help shed light on the path to help guide you home to yourself
While I work with diverse individuals from all walks of life, I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ community and regularly integrate EMDR into treatment.
Navigating through our human journey can be daunting, and everyone can benefit from support along the way. My role as a therapist is to help you gain more insight into the nature of your inner world and a greater perspective of your outer circumstances so that you can become empowered to create the intentional and meaningful life that you truly desire. With compassion and deep presence, we will identify unconscious patterns that are limiting you so that you can gain the awareness and tools needed to create effective changes for yourself.
While I work with diverse individuals from all walks of life, I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ community and regularly integrate EMDR into treatment.
Navigating through our human journey can be daunting, and everyone can benefit from support along the way. My role as a therapist is to help you gain more insight into the nature of your inner world and a greater perspective of your outer circumstances so that you can become empowered to create the intentional and meaningful life that you truly desire. With compassion and deep presence, we will identify unconscious patterns that are limiting you so that you can gain the awareness and tools needed to create effective changes for yourself.
You are not your problems, the problem is the problem! Together we can begin to discern the difference and take action toward change. I am a white, genderqueer therapist dedicated to facilitating personal, interpersonal and collective healing through relationships and organizing. I specialize in supporting people experiencing issues related to boundaries, self-respect, burnout, anger, social/racial justice, healing trauma, identity development, existential questions, sexuality, gender identity, and life transitions. LGBTQ, poly, and kink identities welcome. More at: www.tidepooltherapy.com and www.traumaconsciouspraxis.com
You are not your problems, the problem is the problem! Together we can begin to discern the difference and take action toward change. I am a white, genderqueer therapist dedicated to facilitating personal, interpersonal and collective healing through relationships and organizing. I specialize in supporting people experiencing issues related to boundaries, self-respect, burnout, anger, social/racial justice, healing trauma, identity development, existential questions, sexuality, gender identity, and life transitions. LGBTQ, poly, and kink identities welcome. More at: www.tidepooltherapy.com and www.traumaconsciouspraxis.com
The decision to pursue therapy is not one taken easily. Many possibilities lead a person to this point: A recent disruption or crisis in your life, a long struggle with troubling emotions and behaviors, and/or a fundamental desire to better know yourself. I have experience treating issues such as depression, trauma, interpersonal difficulties, anxiety, and life transition difficulties. Additionally, I have expertise in working with people who have survived childhood abuse, who experience feelings of alienation and estrangement from others, and those who identify as LGBTQ+.
The decision to pursue therapy is not one taken easily. Many possibilities lead a person to this point: A recent disruption or crisis in your life, a long struggle with troubling emotions and behaviors, and/or a fundamental desire to better know yourself. I have experience treating issues such as depression, trauma, interpersonal difficulties, anxiety, and life transition difficulties. Additionally, I have expertise in working with people who have survived childhood abuse, who experience feelings of alienation and estrangement from others, and those who identify as LGBTQ+.
Josephine Kelly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
I love working with the LGBTQ+ community, especially the Bs and the Ts.
Is acceptance even worth it if it means showing up inauthentically? Does finding community and feeling like you belong feel nearly impossible? Existing at multiple intersections of identity shouldn't feel like a burden when it also gives you unique strengths and perspectives. I support multi-marginalized folks build deeper self trust so they can navigate the tides of this chaotic world. Whether you're hoping to find healing and empowerment after sexual trauma, release the internalized oppressive narratives holding you back, or cultivate a more compassionate relationship with your body I can be your collaborator and companion.
I love working with the LGBTQ+ community, especially the Bs and the Ts.
Is acceptance even worth it if it means showing up inauthentically? Does finding community and feeling like you belong feel nearly impossible? Existing at multiple intersections of identity shouldn't feel like a burden when it also gives you unique strengths and perspectives. I support multi-marginalized folks build deeper self trust so they can navigate the tides of this chaotic world. Whether you're hoping to find healing and empowerment after sexual trauma, release the internalized oppressive narratives holding you back, or cultivate a more compassionate relationship with your body I can be your collaborator and companion.
Welcome to my queer- and gender-affirming therapy practice. Beginning the process of therapy and reaching out for support can often feel vulnerable and even scary, so I celebrate you taking this first step. I prioritize getting to know you and your specific needs very intentionally, and my objective is to witness and support you in the unique way you deserve. My approach is relational and collaborative in nature, and I strive to develop a relationship with my clients that will help to empower inner strength, expand capacity for self-compassion, and support in healing wounds that are impacting overall health and quality of life.
Welcome to my queer- and gender-affirming therapy practice. Beginning the process of therapy and reaching out for support can often feel vulnerable and even scary, so I celebrate you taking this first step. I prioritize getting to know you and your specific needs very intentionally, and my objective is to witness and support you in the unique way you deserve. My approach is relational and collaborative in nature, and I strive to develop a relationship with my clients that will help to empower inner strength, expand capacity for self-compassion, and support in healing wounds that are impacting overall health and quality of life.
Luisa Mancera
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601 (Online Only)
I particularly enjoy working with multi-cultural and LGBTQ+ folks.
Do you feel like you're doing everything you're supposed to do, but feeling constantly stressed, overwhelmed, or helpless? Are you stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns? Are you living in your head so much that it’s getting in the way of your relationships, health, or work? Are you constantly busy yet feel unfulfilled, like the ‘go’ button is stuck in the on position? Maybe this is you, or maybe this is your partner. I’ve worked with lots of clients like this — working through trauma, identity issues, anxiety, and stress to live a healthier, more meaningful life.
I particularly enjoy working with multi-cultural and LGBTQ+ folks.
Do you feel like you're doing everything you're supposed to do, but feeling constantly stressed, overwhelmed, or helpless? Are you stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns? Are you living in your head so much that it’s getting in the way of your relationships, health, or work? Are you constantly busy yet feel unfulfilled, like the ‘go’ button is stuck in the on position? Maybe this is you, or maybe this is your partner. I’ve worked with lots of clients like this — working through trauma, identity issues, anxiety, and stress to live a healthier, more meaningful life.
I am a queer artist, activist and therapist. I believe deeply in healing, and my practice as a therapist is one way I use my own healing journey to inform and create space for others to explore theirs. I seek to center my work on empowering and supporting people in the LGBTQIA+ community navigating all the emotional work it takes to exist in an oppressive culture - anxiety, depression, relationships, sex, gender, substance use, family, housing, employment, etc. Whether directly or indirectly through my practice, I also work to uplift and center the empowerment of queer, trans*, Black, indigenous and people of color (QTBIPOC).
I am a queer artist, activist and therapist. I believe deeply in healing, and my practice as a therapist is one way I use my own healing journey to inform and create space for others to explore theirs. I seek to center my work on empowering and supporting people in the LGBTQIA+ community navigating all the emotional work it takes to exist in an oppressive culture - anxiety, depression, relationships, sex, gender, substance use, family, housing, employment, etc. Whether directly or indirectly through my practice, I also work to uplift and center the empowerment of queer, trans*, Black, indigenous and people of color (QTBIPOC).
Mikaela A Wapman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601
I am passionate about working with queer and polyamorous people! I specialize in working with those navigating fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and parenting.
Many people want to change in some way: to feel more ease, more pleasure, less anxiety, more freedom, greater connection. I offer a reliably warm space for clients to discover what they want to feel and experience in their lives. With a balance of curiosity and direction, I partner with clients to understand their strengths and challenges, to take action in alignment with their desires. As clarity and agency develop, we stabilize and encourage the emerging self. I think of this process as cultivating the capacity to hold steady in ourselves to connect truly with others, so that we can feel a sense of vitality and ease in our lives.
I am passionate about working with queer and polyamorous people! I specialize in working with those navigating fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and parenting.
Many people want to change in some way: to feel more ease, more pleasure, less anxiety, more freedom, greater connection. I offer a reliably warm space for clients to discover what they want to feel and experience in their lives. With a balance of curiosity and direction, I partner with clients to understand their strengths and challenges, to take action in alignment with their desires. As clarity and agency develop, we stabilize and encourage the emerging self. I think of this process as cultivating the capacity to hold steady in ourselves to connect truly with others, so that we can feel a sense of vitality and ease in our lives.
Carly Rainé Canant
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EPP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611 (Online Only)
I’m an Oakland-based integrative wellness practitioner with a focus on helping people (especially neurodivergent, queer, and gender-expansive people) manage and release stress, cultivate a better relationship with themselves and others, and address experiences of developmental and interpersonal traumas to promote healing. My clients want to grow their sense of inner stability and autonomy, the quality of their connections and self-expression, and their satisfaction and enjoyment of life.
I’m an Oakland-based integrative wellness practitioner with a focus on helping people (especially neurodivergent, queer, and gender-expansive people) manage and release stress, cultivate a better relationship with themselves and others, and address experiences of developmental and interpersonal traumas to promote healing. My clients want to grow their sense of inner stability and autonomy, the quality of their connections and self-expression, and their satisfaction and enjoyment of life.
Kamila LaShaun Houston Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Everyone deserves the freedom to define themselves and access services that genuinely meet their needs. I am here to support you process through past experiences that are keeping you stuck and build your confidence to create the life you want. As a Black, Queer, and Genderqueer therapist, I offer individual and group therapy services that honor and center Black and other POC communities. I am currently offering bi-weekly, in-person appointments.
Everyone deserves the freedom to define themselves and access services that genuinely meet their needs. I am here to support you process through past experiences that are keeping you stuck and build your confidence to create the life you want. As a Black, Queer, and Genderqueer therapist, I offer individual and group therapy services that honor and center Black and other POC communities. I am currently offering bi-weekly, in-person appointments.
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I bring my lens as a queer, non-binary, poly, kinky, neurodivergent, radical, white, Jewish person.
How you feel towards yourself can profoundly impact your relationships, work, school, and more. And a lot can make it hard to feel your best. You might be: Exhausted by a relentless self-critical voice...Considering your next steps to feel authentically aligned with your gender and sexuality...Struggling with boundaries and people-pleasing... Stressed and stuck in your closest relationships...Curious about non-monogamy but unsure where to start...Looking for nonjudgmental guidance navigating dynamics within polyamory and kink — not to mention managing all of this under capitalism. No wonder you'd like support!
I bring my lens as a queer, non-binary, poly, kinky, neurodivergent, radical, white, Jewish person.
How you feel towards yourself can profoundly impact your relationships, work, school, and more. And a lot can make it hard to feel your best. You might be: Exhausted by a relentless self-critical voice...Considering your next steps to feel authentically aligned with your gender and sexuality...Struggling with boundaries and people-pleasing... Stressed and stuck in your closest relationships...Curious about non-monogamy but unsure where to start...Looking for nonjudgmental guidance navigating dynamics within polyamory and kink — not to mention managing all of this under capitalism. No wonder you'd like support!
Preston Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
Greetings and welcome! I'm Preston, a therapist proudly rocking my queer and brown identities. In my work with clients, my top priority is fostering a safe, vibrant connection in which to explore the therapeutic process. I adopt a holistic approach, always striving to understand both individuals and their place within broader societal systems. Through a social justice lens, I assist individuals in recognizing and overcoming the impact of internalized oppression on their identities and relationships.
Greetings and welcome! I'm Preston, a therapist proudly rocking my queer and brown identities. In my work with clients, my top priority is fostering a safe, vibrant connection in which to explore the therapeutic process. I adopt a holistic approach, always striving to understand both individuals and their place within broader societal systems. Through a social justice lens, I assist individuals in recognizing and overcoming the impact of internalized oppression on their identities and relationships.
Keri (Kathryn) Sills-Payne
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
As a queer-identified and spiritual-identified woman in an interracial, same-sex marriage, I integrate many layers.
Are you wanting to feel better once and for all? Maybe you can't move on from the past or you're worried about your future. If anxiety, panic, or even depression is stealing your joy, I get it. If traditional talk therapy hasn't helped you feel better, it's time to try a new approach to heal at the source of your pain. For 12 years I have refined my approach through professional training and experience in Relational-gestalt therapy and Brainspotting (derived from EMDR) while centering social justice and trauma-informed care.
As a queer-identified and spiritual-identified woman in an interracial, same-sex marriage, I integrate many layers.
Are you wanting to feel better once and for all? Maybe you can't move on from the past or you're worried about your future. If anxiety, panic, or even depression is stealing your joy, I get it. If traditional talk therapy hasn't helped you feel better, it's time to try a new approach to heal at the source of your pain. For 12 years I have refined my approach through professional training and experience in Relational-gestalt therapy and Brainspotting (derived from EMDR) while centering social justice and trauma-informed care.
Sean C. Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601 (Online Only)
I am a good fit for LGBTQ+ people who need support navigating identity as well as people working on boundaries, self love, open relationships/polyamory.
Do you feel stressed, worried, lost? Are you fighting all the time with your partner and feeling stuck? Feel like you have to be someone else? If these sound true to you, I want you to know that in our society, we don’t talk about it very much, but what you are experiencing is normal.
I am a good fit for LGBTQ+ people who need support navigating identity as well as people working on boundaries, self love, open relationships/polyamory.
Do you feel stressed, worried, lost? Are you fighting all the time with your partner and feeling stuck? Feel like you have to be someone else? If these sound true to you, I want you to know that in our society, we don’t talk about it very much, but what you are experiencing is normal.
Mary M Clarke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Waitlist for new clients
I connect with the LGBTQ+, Trans, and Non Binary communities.
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
I connect with the LGBTQ+, Trans, and Non Binary communities.
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
I work with individuals and couples across many backgrounds, particularly within queer and trans community, kink and polyamory, and people who are in recovery and survivors.
Hi there, I’m glad you’re here. I know that looking for a therapist can be hard, especially when you’re hurting or feeling low. I may be able to help. You might feel lonely, anxious, or full of guilt…or you might not know what you feel. You may be confused about the choices you make in life, or you may feel frustrated with the unjust world you live in. Many critical thought patterns, painful feelings, and unwanted behaviors started out as survival strategies to protect us during difficult life experiences. These strategies helped us cope in the past, but can lead to conflict and suffering in the present.
I work with individuals and couples across many backgrounds, particularly within queer and trans community, kink and polyamory, and people who are in recovery and survivors.
Hi there, I’m glad you’re here. I know that looking for a therapist can be hard, especially when you’re hurting or feeling low. I may be able to help. You might feel lonely, anxious, or full of guilt…or you might not know what you feel. You may be confused about the choices you make in life, or you may feel frustrated with the unjust world you live in. Many critical thought patterns, painful feelings, and unwanted behaviors started out as survival strategies to protect us during difficult life experiences. These strategies helped us cope in the past, but can lead to conflict and suffering in the present.
I am dedicated to providing safe, transparent, collaborative, and empowering therapy, especially for queer, trans, and BIPOC clients.
I believe people are trying their best through good and hard times. Especially during the hard times, we find ways to make it through. I work with people to figure out what their survival strategies are, which ones they want to keep or change. Sometimes, these strategies require us to code-switch, mask, or deny parts of ourselves. I enjoy helping people find out more about themselves, their values, and what ways to care for themselves. I work with them to build a therapy experience for rest, healing, and discovery. Together my clients and I build more places and experiences where they just get to be.
I am dedicated to providing safe, transparent, collaborative, and empowering therapy, especially for queer, trans, and BIPOC clients.
I believe people are trying their best through good and hard times. Especially during the hard times, we find ways to make it through. I work with people to figure out what their survival strategies are, which ones they want to keep or change. Sometimes, these strategies require us to code-switch, mask, or deny parts of ourselves. I enjoy helping people find out more about themselves, their values, and what ways to care for themselves. I work with them to build a therapy experience for rest, healing, and discovery. Together my clients and I build more places and experiences where they just get to be.
Abby Weintraub
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
Welcome! I work with people across many areas, but those who seek me out tend to be queer/LGBTQIAA2+, neurodivergent in some way, trans/non-binary/gender non-conforming, chronically or acutely ill, disabled, fat-identified and/or working on an empowered relationship with their body, polyamorous, kinky, sex workers, and non-traditional family structures. I'll be with you every step of the way as you move from shame to self-compassion, and work through the expression of anger, sadness, and grief around what you've lost, or what you never got to have.
Welcome! I work with people across many areas, but those who seek me out tend to be queer/LGBTQIAA2+, neurodivergent in some way, trans/non-binary/gender non-conforming, chronically or acutely ill, disabled, fat-identified and/or working on an empowered relationship with their body, polyamorous, kinky, sex workers, and non-traditional family structures. I'll be with you every step of the way as you move from shame to self-compassion, and work through the expression of anger, sadness, and grief around what you've lost, or what you never got to have.
Frankie Phipps
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
Counseling, to me, is a collaborative space where clients are empowered to explore, find their own path, and work towards their goals. I’m a queer, neurodiverse counselor, and while I am especially passionate about discussing gender, sexuality, and neurodiversity with clients, I enjoy working on a variety of concerns with clients of any identity or experience. Therapy with me often includes building self-awareness, learning and practicing validation, and challenging oneself to make desired changes at a realistic pace.
Counseling, to me, is a collaborative space where clients are empowered to explore, find their own path, and work towards their goals. I’m a queer, neurodiverse counselor, and while I am especially passionate about discussing gender, sexuality, and neurodiversity with clients, I enjoy working on a variety of concerns with clients of any identity or experience. Therapy with me often includes building self-awareness, learning and practicing validation, and challenging oneself to make desired changes at a realistic pace.
See more therapy options for Oakland
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Oakland
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- El Cerrito
- Emeryville
- Kensington
- Lafayette
- Moraga
- Orinda
- Piedmont
- San Francisco
- San Leandro
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.