LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Oakland, CA
Max Littman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611 (Online Only)
Feeling stuck, disconnected, or burdened by shame? I help individuals like you navigate these struggles, uncover what's holding you back, and release these binds by using my innate gifts of attunement and communication, in combination with my dedication, experience, and thorough training in trauma and attachment. Helping people like you is my life's work. While I have extensive experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, I specialize in supporting gay and queer men and those dealing with childhood trauma.
Feeling stuck, disconnected, or burdened by shame? I help individuals like you navigate these struggles, uncover what's holding you back, and release these binds by using my innate gifts of attunement and communication, in combination with my dedication, experience, and thorough training in trauma and attachment. Helping people like you is my life's work. While I have extensive experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, I specialize in supporting gay and queer men and those dealing with childhood trauma.
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.
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.
Jeffrey Gianelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I specialize in spiritual growth, Trauma/ PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, LGBTQIA+, and self worth, using IFS, EMDR, ACT, and mindful self compassion.
EDMR Consultant, (IFS) Level 1 trained. The therapy I do is about getting to the root of the struggles you are facing. This often leads to a deeper sense of compassion towards yourself and a better relationship with your life experiences. I customize my methods to your needs, creating a safe space for you to explore the links between past and present, to see what you are still holding onto and to help you finally let go. I also teach a variety of skills and tools you can use along the way. Perhaps you've tried talk therapy and are ready to go deeper! Now offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) as well.
I specialize in spiritual growth, Trauma/ PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, LGBTQIA+, and self worth, using IFS, EMDR, ACT, and mindful self compassion.
EDMR Consultant, (IFS) Level 1 trained. The therapy I do is about getting to the root of the struggles you are facing. This often leads to a deeper sense of compassion towards yourself and a better relationship with your life experiences. I customize my methods to your needs, creating a safe space for you to explore the links between past and present, to see what you are still holding onto and to help you finally let go. I also teach a variety of skills and tools you can use along the way. Perhaps you've tried talk therapy and are ready to go deeper! Now offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) as well.
Preston Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
I work with folks grappling with depression, anxiety, relationship strain, grief, and life transitions.
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.
I work with folks grappling with depression, anxiety, relationship strain, grief, and life transitions.
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.
What sets me apart from other therapists is my incredibly unique variety of work experiences including specializing in OCD and anxiety treatment, international social work, juvenile justice, childhood trauma, and service to several different communities: undocumented families, individuals with developmental disabilities, LGBTQIA, and the non-binary community. I have an ongoing spiritual practice and believe in the importance of continuing to do inner personal work even as a therapist. I meditate and practice mindfulness regularly.
What sets me apart from other therapists is my incredibly unique variety of work experiences including specializing in OCD and anxiety treatment, international social work, juvenile justice, childhood trauma, and service to several different communities: undocumented families, individuals with developmental disabilities, LGBTQIA, and the non-binary community. I have an ongoing spiritual practice and believe in the importance of continuing to do inner personal work even as a therapist. I meditate and practice mindfulness regularly.
I am trained in many modalities aimed at healing trauma, including AF-EMDR, and also enjoy working with the LGBT+ population.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. If you've encountered tough experiences, difficulties in work and relationships, traumas, or addiction, I am available to help. I've done extensive work at the crossroads of trauma and mental health, and specialize in helping clients move from crisis into stabilization. I use modalities such as attachment focused EMDR, IFS, DBT skills, somatic interventions and insight oriented talk therapy. I am here to partner with you so that we can work together to help you feel better. Getting you to a place where you can live the life you want to is my primary goal!
I am trained in many modalities aimed at healing trauma, including AF-EMDR, and also enjoy working with the LGBT+ population.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. If you've encountered tough experiences, difficulties in work and relationships, traumas, or addiction, I am available to help. I've done extensive work at the crossroads of trauma and mental health, and specialize in helping clients move from crisis into stabilization. I use modalities such as attachment focused EMDR, IFS, DBT skills, somatic interventions and insight oriented talk therapy. I am here to partner with you so that we can work together to help you feel better. Getting you to a place where you can live the life you want to is my primary goal!
As a Black, Queer, bicultural, first-generation clinician, I know personally the experience of intersectionality and care deeply about working with others of intersecting and/or marginalized identities.
One of the bravest things we can do in life is to seek help when we need it most. It can be difficult to carry our struggles alone, and a true relief to have someone help us to work through them. No matter what is bringing you to therapy today, the key to change is an openness to the possibility of your own healing, evolution, and growth. From there lies the door that can lead to the discovery of your full potential.
As a Black, Queer, bicultural, first-generation clinician, I know personally the experience of intersectionality and care deeply about working with others of intersecting and/or marginalized identities.
One of the bravest things we can do in life is to seek help when we need it most. It can be difficult to carry our struggles alone, and a true relief to have someone help us to work through them. No matter what is bringing you to therapy today, the key to change is an openness to the possibility of your own healing, evolution, and growth. From there lies the door that can lead to the discovery of your full potential.
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.
Lizzie Pfeiffer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I have a particular passion for supporting LGBTQ+, Queer, and/or Trans folks, and in my work, I invite conversations around culture, identity, power, privilege, and oppression.
I work from a trauma-informed, relational, and client-centered lens. I integrate psychodynamic and attachment based theoretical approaches. I believe the relationship we build as client and therapist, as well as exploring your relationships outside of therapy, are important avenues for growth. You are the expert on your own life; I am here to listen to you and work collaboratively to empower your inherent strength and resilience. I use warmth, compassion, and humor to cultivate an affirming, non-judgemental, and trusting connection with my clients.
I have a particular passion for supporting LGBTQ+, Queer, and/or Trans folks, and in my work, I invite conversations around culture, identity, power, privilege, and oppression.
I work from a trauma-informed, relational, and client-centered lens. I integrate psychodynamic and attachment based theoretical approaches. I believe the relationship we build as client and therapist, as well as exploring your relationships outside of therapy, are important avenues for growth. You are the expert on your own life; I am here to listen to you and work collaboratively to empower your inherent strength and resilience. I use warmth, compassion, and humor to cultivate an affirming, non-judgemental, and trusting connection with my clients.
I often work w/ healers, empaths, artists, & anyone queering the path to belonging.
Hey there fellow traveler! I am a nb, queer, neuro queer, white, ashkenazi jewish healer. I support queer creatives & nonconformists honor authenticity beyond the binary. My practice offers a somatic, creative, relational, and liberatory justice approach to caregiver recovery/codependencey, developmental trauma, post traumatic stress, and anxiety. I hold a non-pathologizing stance, encouraging a sense creative flow in healing. I aim to support your agency & QT joy! I have a passion for supporting LGBTQQIP2SAA+ community with hard transitions, systemic harm, relationship healing, & all who had to "grow up too quickly" in childhood.
I often work w/ healers, empaths, artists, & anyone queering the path to belonging.
Hey there fellow traveler! I am a nb, queer, neuro queer, white, ashkenazi jewish healer. I support queer creatives & nonconformists honor authenticity beyond the binary. My practice offers a somatic, creative, relational, and liberatory justice approach to caregiver recovery/codependencey, developmental trauma, post traumatic stress, and anxiety. I hold a non-pathologizing stance, encouraging a sense creative flow in healing. I aim to support your agency & QT joy! I have a passion for supporting LGBTQQIP2SAA+ community with hard transitions, systemic harm, relationship healing, & all who had to "grow up too quickly" in childhood.
15 Second Videos
Jeffrey Gianelli
Lizzie Pfeiffer
Sye Gratz
Jesse Whittle-Utter
Seth Ambrose
Nicolaus Garcia
Chris Datiles
Kamila LaShaun Houston Baker
Josephine Kelly
Kelly Howard
Claire Perelman
Amy-Lynn Gerber
Kathleen 'kk' Cowan
Eula Lys Dunkin
Eliot M. Lev
Shallyn Wells
Deeper Than Color
Mar Chung
Marisa Musso
Grace Anna Walcott
Stephanie Bain
Jocelyn Lam
Melisa Medalle
Christina M. Charlotin
Jordan Davis
Luke (Frank Luke) Adams
Bedford Palmer
David Chung
Lauren Hoernig
Fei Yi
Xuel Sun
Konjit V Page
Gabrielle Theobald-Anderson
Aviva Wilcox
Matthew Daube
Jacqueline Benson
Aerin Riegelsberger
Onaje L. Smartt
Misha Kellner-Rogers
Lili Weckler
Devera Jackson-Garber
Kiri Maura
Beth Gadomski
Camara Meri Rajabari
Leanne Jones
Kerry McKee
Ashley Merriman
Sacramento Transformation Center
Christina Frenzel
Justin D'Avella
Welcome to Authentic Path Psychology, my queer- and gender-affirming therapy practice. Beginning the process of therapy and reaching out for help can feel vulnerable and even scary, so I celebrate you taking this first step. I prioritize getting to know you and your specific needs intentionally, and my objective is to witness and support you in the unique way you deserve. My approach is relational and collaborative, 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 Authentic Path Psychology, my queer- and gender-affirming therapy practice. Beginning the process of therapy and reaching out for help can feel vulnerable and even scary, so I celebrate you taking this first step. I prioritize getting to know you and your specific needs intentionally, and my objective is to witness and support you in the unique way you deserve. My approach is relational and collaborative, 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.
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, gender queer 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, gender queer 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
LGBTQ focus on identity, sexuality, internalized homophobia, and nontraditional relationships.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to develop a new compassionate understanding of yourself and your relationship to others. Whether you are looking for symptom relief or personal growth, the work of psychotherapy begins with establishing a trusting relationship with the therapist who will be your guide, ally, and occasionally your nemesis in exploration. I encourage my clients to become relentlessly curious about themselves by carefully looking at their past and present relationships and the patterns of their emotional and psychological lives.
LGBTQ focus on identity, sexuality, internalized homophobia, and nontraditional relationships.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to develop a new compassionate understanding of yourself and your relationship to others. Whether you are looking for symptom relief or personal growth, the work of psychotherapy begins with establishing a trusting relationship with the therapist who will be your guide, ally, and occasionally your nemesis in exploration. I encourage my clients to become relentlessly curious about themselves by carefully looking at their past and present relationships and the patterns of their emotional and psychological lives.
Paul J. Wensley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609 (Online Only)
I am a survivor of depression, and the trauma of living in this world as a gay man.
Life has its ups and downs, ins and outs, mountains, plateaus, and valleys, and sometimes you just need someone to talk to. Is it a loss, feeling anxious, depressed, unaccepted, overwhelmed or fragile. Are some of these things holding you back? Together we can learn coping skills, healthy ways of living, and how to move forward in your life. I use a compassionate, non- judgmental, understanding, strength based approach by acknowledging and welcoming your whole person, body, mind, and spirit.
I am a survivor of depression, and the trauma of living in this world as a gay man.
Life has its ups and downs, ins and outs, mountains, plateaus, and valleys, and sometimes you just need someone to talk to. Is it a loss, feeling anxious, depressed, unaccepted, overwhelmed or fragile. Are some of these things holding you back? Together we can learn coping skills, healthy ways of living, and how to move forward in your life. I use a compassionate, non- judgmental, understanding, strength based approach by acknowledging and welcoming your whole person, body, mind, and spirit.
Mikhaëla Beaudet-DeBus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609 (Online Only)
Welcome! I support my Clients' path to arrive at a freer, more empowered version of themselves. I am passionate about working through an intersectional and trauma-informed lens with everyone. I respect my Clients deeply and give them my genuine warmth and attentiveness. I am a good fit for people who are nervous about therapy, people working on boundaries, self love, finding their voice, embodiment, healing from trauma/complex trauma as well as folks from all parts of the LGBT+ family. I am here for gender exploration, questioning, arrival and take a non judgmental stance on all corners of consensual sex/sexuality/kink/non-monog+
Welcome! I support my Clients' path to arrive at a freer, more empowered version of themselves. I am passionate about working through an intersectional and trauma-informed lens with everyone. I respect my Clients deeply and give them my genuine warmth and attentiveness. I am a good fit for people who are nervous about therapy, people working on boundaries, self love, finding their voice, embodiment, healing from trauma/complex trauma as well as folks from all parts of the LGBT+ family. I am here for gender exploration, questioning, arrival and take a non judgmental stance on all corners of consensual sex/sexuality/kink/non-monog+
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+.
Professionally, I have an LGBT-affirmative emphasis and I have also done policy work for QTPoCs.
I believe we are all whole but sometimes life circumstances, the way we grew up, the way we are treated by society/systems based on our identities, etc. can cloud the way in which we see ourselves or which tools we have access to. I specialize in working with clients who have experienced complex trauma due to race, gender, sexual orientation, abuse, violence, historical events and poverty. My hope is to help create more tools, help unpack the trauma, identify YOUR strengths and your understanding of yourself and help you navigate the world in a way that feels true to YOU.
Professionally, I have an LGBT-affirmative emphasis and I have also done policy work for QTPoCs.
I believe we are all whole but sometimes life circumstances, the way we grew up, the way we are treated by society/systems based on our identities, etc. can cloud the way in which we see ourselves or which tools we have access to. I specialize in working with clients who have experienced complex trauma due to race, gender, sexual orientation, abuse, violence, historical events and poverty. My hope is to help create more tools, help unpack the trauma, identify YOUR strengths and your understanding of yourself and help you navigate the world in a way that feels true to YOU.
Kat Marie Yoas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611 (Online Only)
I am a queer femme artist and social justice therapist.
Have you been feeling stuck? Having difficulties making changes, or knowing what to do? Are you navigating a sense that something is off? I can help. My clients say I'm easy to talk with because I'm present, compassionate, and am real with them. I listen actively and reflect honestly, engaging in creative, authentic, and occasionally humorous ways. I share tools to help you change the patterns in your life that make you feel stuck. In my strengths-based, trauma-informed, creative and client-centered approach, you will find your way back to yourself: your unique voice, movement, vision, and your way of loving and being loved.
I am a queer femme artist and social justice therapist.
Have you been feeling stuck? Having difficulties making changes, or knowing what to do? Are you navigating a sense that something is off? I can help. My clients say I'm easy to talk with because I'm present, compassionate, and am real with them. I listen actively and reflect honestly, engaging in creative, authentic, and occasionally humorous ways. I share tools to help you change the patterns in your life that make you feel stuck. In my strengths-based, trauma-informed, creative and client-centered approach, you will find your way back to yourself: your unique voice, movement, vision, and your way of loving and being loved.
Ab (Abigail) Krumbein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609 (Online Only)
I work with queer, trans, and nonbinary people, healers, activists, postpartum people, parents, twins, and those longing for deeper relationships with themselves and others.
We all deserve to feel safe and connected. Sometimes, overwhelming things happen that prevent us from feeling safe and settled in the world. In therapy, we support the strengths that have helped you survive and grow your capacity to move towards the life you long for. Whatever you are experiencing, be that anxiety, depression, or the pain of trauma or oppression, together we will collaborate to tend to what hurts and to nurture the vitality that exists inside you.
I work with queer, trans, and nonbinary people, healers, activists, postpartum people, parents, twins, and those longing for deeper relationships with themselves and others.
We all deserve to feel safe and connected. Sometimes, overwhelming things happen that prevent us from feeling safe and settled in the world. In therapy, we support the strengths that have helped you survive and grow your capacity to move towards the life you long for. Whatever you are experiencing, be that anxiety, depression, or the pain of trauma or oppression, together we will collaborate to tend to what hurts and to nurture the vitality that exists inside you.
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.