Transgender Therapists in Pleasant Hill, CA

Photo of Cathy Bennett, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Bennett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. My work is client-focused, compassionate, and impactful. I work with individuals, couples, adolescents, and children. I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions. My sessions are fee-for-service only. I accept cash, personal checks, and credit card billing at the time of service. I will provide a financial statement, or complete an insurance claim form so that my clients can seek reimbursement from health care spending accounts, or their insurance policy directly.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. My work is client-focused, compassionate, and impactful. I work with individuals, couples, adolescents, and children. I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions. My sessions are fee-for-service only. I accept cash, personal checks, and credit card billing at the time of service. I will provide a financial statement, or complete an insurance claim form so that my clients can seek reimbursement from health care spending accounts, or their insurance policy directly.
(925) 798-9443 View (925) 798-9443
Photo of Emma C Melo, LMFT, MS, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emma C Melo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
I'm passionate about working with queer, neurodivergent folks who have experienced trauma. I also enjoy working with folks who identify as part of the “still COVIDing” community. I offer support around exploring gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and coming out. I also enjoy supporting folks in developing secure attachment and healing past attachment wounds. A lot of the folks I work with are experiencing anxiety, depression, burnout, and stress. They are seeking a better understanding of themselves and some relief. I support them in bettering their relationships with themselves and others.
I'm passionate about working with queer, neurodivergent folks who have experienced trauma. I also enjoy working with folks who identify as part of the “still COVIDing” community. I offer support around exploring gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and coming out. I also enjoy supporting folks in developing secure attachment and healing past attachment wounds. A lot of the folks I work with are experiencing anxiety, depression, burnout, and stress. They are seeking a better understanding of themselves and some relief. I support them in bettering their relationships with themselves and others.
(657) 214-4630 View (657) 214-4630
Photo of Laura Madsen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Madsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
In today's world, adolescents are exposed to some overwhelming internal and external battles, such as peer pressure, self-esteem and body image, stress from home and school, bullying, anxiety, and depression. I am passionate about coming alongside today's adolescents to create a safe, non-judgemental, understanding atmosphere, process their struggles and gain positive, healthy tools to use as they grow. In addition, I also have a heart for helping individuals examine their present life issues and deal effectively with the circumstances they are facing. Come visit us on Facebook under Hope Counseling Services
In today's world, adolescents are exposed to some overwhelming internal and external battles, such as peer pressure, self-esteem and body image, stress from home and school, bullying, anxiety, and depression. I am passionate about coming alongside today's adolescents to create a safe, non-judgemental, understanding atmosphere, process their struggles and gain positive, healthy tools to use as they grow. In addition, I also have a heart for helping individuals examine their present life issues and deal effectively with the circumstances they are facing. Come visit us on Facebook under Hope Counseling Services
(510) 764-5299 View (510) 764-5299
Photo of Genevieve Ann Green, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Genevieve Ann Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
My work includes working with individuals coping with depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, and chronic and severe mental illness. I have experience working with all age ranges and ethnicities. I welcome clients of all gender identities and sexual orientations. I have fifteen years plus experience of working within the field of psychology in a variety of settings including drug and alcohol therapy, psychiatric crisis stabilization, forensics, and individual and group therapies. I am certified through Harvard University for Trauma.
My work includes working with individuals coping with depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, and chronic and severe mental illness. I have experience working with all age ranges and ethnicities. I welcome clients of all gender identities and sexual orientations. I have fifteen years plus experience of working within the field of psychology in a variety of settings including drug and alcohol therapy, psychiatric crisis stabilization, forensics, and individual and group therapies. I am certified through Harvard University for Trauma.
(925) 293-7542 View (925) 293-7542
Photo of Beth Hawley, LMFT, PPSC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beth Hawley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PPSC
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
My approach to therapy is holistic and addresses mind, body, and spirit as essential, interwoven aspects of who we are. Through my years of practice, I've learned to integrate various somatic and mindfulness modalities into sessions because they go beyond strictly talk therapy in helping calm the nervous system, reduce the effects of trauma and overwhelm, foster new perspectives, and create a healthier relationship with the body. The result is greater resilience, self-compassion, fulfillment, empowerment, and joy. EFT Tapping and Embodied Mindfulness are two modalities that I use & teach so that clients have tools to use at home.
My approach to therapy is holistic and addresses mind, body, and spirit as essential, interwoven aspects of who we are. Through my years of practice, I've learned to integrate various somatic and mindfulness modalities into sessions because they go beyond strictly talk therapy in helping calm the nervous system, reduce the effects of trauma and overwhelm, foster new perspectives, and create a healthier relationship with the body. The result is greater resilience, self-compassion, fulfillment, empowerment, and joy. EFT Tapping and Embodied Mindfulness are two modalities that I use & teach so that clients have tools to use at home.
(925) 433-7957 View (925) 433-7957
Photo of Melissa Ulrich-Strombeck, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Ulrich-Strombeck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
I practice with the belief that therapy can be a rich and vital exploration into understanding the deepest parts of ourselves: the parts we cherish as well as the parts we want to change. We all have unconscious patterns that can get in the way of living the life we want to lead. These patterns can manifest as anxiety, depression, phobias, physical illness or pain, addiction, even rage. These symptoms can affect relationships, work, self esteem, creativity, and sexuality. Change is possible when these patterns can be expressed and understood in an open, and accepting space. I specialize in providing that space.
I practice with the belief that therapy can be a rich and vital exploration into understanding the deepest parts of ourselves: the parts we cherish as well as the parts we want to change. We all have unconscious patterns that can get in the way of living the life we want to lead. These patterns can manifest as anxiety, depression, phobias, physical illness or pain, addiction, even rage. These symptoms can affect relationships, work, self esteem, creativity, and sexuality. Change is possible when these patterns can be expressed and understood in an open, and accepting space. I specialize in providing that space.
(925) 578-4433 View (925) 578-4433
Photo of Aimee Evnin, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aimee Evnin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Are you finding it challenging to connect intimately with yourself or your partner? Does your relationship with your body feel a bit distant these days? Perhaps you're yearning for a deeper, more satisfying understanding of your own sexuality? Does it seem like your desires for intimacy differ from those of your partner? Rest assured, you're not alone in these feelings and concerns. Most clients I support deal with these challenging narratives and begin to heal once they find a warm, welcoming, collaborative environment to learn, open up and connect to their inner selves.
Are you finding it challenging to connect intimately with yourself or your partner? Does your relationship with your body feel a bit distant these days? Perhaps you're yearning for a deeper, more satisfying understanding of your own sexuality? Does it seem like your desires for intimacy differ from those of your partner? Rest assured, you're not alone in these feelings and concerns. Most clients I support deal with these challenging narratives and begin to heal once they find a warm, welcoming, collaborative environment to learn, open up and connect to their inner selves.
(415) 326-1882 View (415) 326-1882
Photo of Robin Farrell, PsyD , Psychologist
Robin Farrell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Looking for clients who are interested in understanding themselves, developing further insight, and willing to challenge themselves. They enjoy my directive style and enjoy the therapeutic process.
Looking for clients who are interested in understanding themselves, developing further insight, and willing to challenge themselves. They enjoy my directive style and enjoy the therapeutic process.
(925) 281-2461 View (925) 281-2461
Michael Anthony Macioci
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Thank you for stopping to read my Introductory Information. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with more than a decade of experience, who believes in providing Integrative Care for those I treat within a diverse population. I utilize an array of treatment modalities that may be applied to your specific needs. My services are Client Centered, with a focus on developing specific treatment goals and objectives. Care is always personalized and culturally sensitive. Treatment modalities offered include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Communications Therapy, Mindfulness, and DBT.
Thank you for stopping to read my Introductory Information. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with more than a decade of experience, who believes in providing Integrative Care for those I treat within a diverse population. I utilize an array of treatment modalities that may be applied to your specific needs. My services are Client Centered, with a focus on developing specific treatment goals and objectives. Care is always personalized and culturally sensitive. Treatment modalities offered include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Communications Therapy, Mindfulness, and DBT.
(925) 319-6864 View (925) 319-6864
Photo of Annie Leah Lesny, APCC, MA
Annie Leah Lesny
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy for anxiety, depression, relational issues, childhood and lifespan trauma, and more. I understand that sometimes psychotherapy is sought out in a very challenging time of life, and I am here to offer support through that. I have specialized experience working with creatives of all kinds, in being a singer myself. With experience focusing on young adults as well, I offer guidance for the process of individuation that occurs during these formative years. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, ethnicities, abilities, gender identities, sexualities, and other intersectional identities.
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy for anxiety, depression, relational issues, childhood and lifespan trauma, and more. I understand that sometimes psychotherapy is sought out in a very challenging time of life, and I am here to offer support through that. I have specialized experience working with creatives of all kinds, in being a singer myself. With experience focusing on young adults as well, I offer guidance for the process of individuation that occurs during these formative years. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, ethnicities, abilities, gender identities, sexualities, and other intersectional identities.
(510) 296-3494 View (510) 296-3494
Photo of Maya Attia, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maya Attia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Maya Attia, LMFT 139693, is a sex-positive, LGBTQ+ affirming, polyamory, kink, and BDSM-friendly therapist. She offers space to express, explore, and learn about your whole self to find ease and greater satisfaction in life. My approach is humanistic and tender. I facilitate conversations that inspire insight and change. I enjoy using the practical tools from cognitive behavioral therapy, ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), and other modalities, but at my core, I am relational.
Maya Attia, LMFT 139693, is a sex-positive, LGBTQ+ affirming, polyamory, kink, and BDSM-friendly therapist. She offers space to express, explore, and learn about your whole self to find ease and greater satisfaction in life. My approach is humanistic and tender. I facilitate conversations that inspire insight and change. I enjoy using the practical tools from cognitive behavioral therapy, ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), and other modalities, but at my core, I am relational.
(949) 806-3433 View (949) 806-3433
Photo of Larry Yavorsky - Larry Yavorsky Therapy & Relationship Enhancement, LMFT, RN, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Larry Yavorsky Therapy & Relationship Enhancement
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RN, MA
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
You can be happier, healthier & find life more fulfilling, by engaging in therapy with Larry Yavorsky. I am LMFT and RN with 40 years of experience in the areas of enhancing individual, sexual, and relationship health and satisfaction. I invite you to call me at (510) 401-3935 for free phone consultation. My passion is to help clients explore and understand themselves, to become free of troubling symptoms and of relationship distress. Using methods which promote emotional, mental, and physical awareness and health, I have had success in treating a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety,PTSD, relationship/sexual distress.
You can be happier, healthier & find life more fulfilling, by engaging in therapy with Larry Yavorsky. I am LMFT and RN with 40 years of experience in the areas of enhancing individual, sexual, and relationship health and satisfaction. I invite you to call me at (510) 401-3935 for free phone consultation. My passion is to help clients explore and understand themselves, to become free of troubling symptoms and of relationship distress. Using methods which promote emotional, mental, and physical awareness and health, I have had success in treating a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety,PTSD, relationship/sexual distress.
(510) 401-3935 View (510) 401-3935
Photo of Gertrudes Aquino Hernandez, PhD, Psychologist
Gertrudes Aquino Hernandez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
With more than 20 years experience as a psychologist in diverse settings, I gained valuable clinical work experience and improved my mastery of psychotherapy. I continue to enhance my skills on a variety of evidence-based therapy techniques. Working with a diverse group of clientele brings me a sense of fulfillment and reward. I believe that active listening, understanding, providing empathy and showing genuine compassion, walking with someone in their path to recovery/healing are ways that one can achieve a sense of awareness and clarity, then eventually find a balance between change and acceptance.
With more than 20 years experience as a psychologist in diverse settings, I gained valuable clinical work experience and improved my mastery of psychotherapy. I continue to enhance my skills on a variety of evidence-based therapy techniques. Working with a diverse group of clientele brings me a sense of fulfillment and reward. I believe that active listening, understanding, providing empathy and showing genuine compassion, walking with someone in their path to recovery/healing are ways that one can achieve a sense of awareness and clarity, then eventually find a balance between change and acceptance.
(510) 550-5856 View (510) 550-5856
Photo of Shannon Brueckner, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon Brueckner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are experiencing challenges in their lives - including school or work performance, relationships with family and friends, or self-esteem. As a parent you might notice your child withdrawing, not interacting as usual with friends and family, getting into more fights or trouble, or struggling with self-confidence. Sleeping and eating habits and other daily routines may be affected as well. When you feel as though you don't know what else to do, reaching out and getting help through counseling can be the best alternative.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are experiencing challenges in their lives - including school or work performance, relationships with family and friends, or self-esteem. As a parent you might notice your child withdrawing, not interacting as usual with friends and family, getting into more fights or trouble, or struggling with self-confidence. Sleeping and eating habits and other daily routines may be affected as well. When you feel as though you don't know what else to do, reaching out and getting help through counseling can be the best alternative.
(415) 237-2076 View (415) 237-2076
Photo of Margie Ryerson, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Margie Ryerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
My orientation is cognitive and behavioral (CBT). I'm a caring compassionate listener and also actively engage with clients to elicit thoughts, feelings, and strategies for healing. My specialties include eating disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, couples, family issues, parenting, and teens. My therapy approach is directive and problem-solving while encouraging self-acceptance and compassion. I believe that everyone is capable of change at their own rate and comfort level. I help my clients eliminate self-critical thinking that too often sabotages their happiness and their relationships.
My orientation is cognitive and behavioral (CBT). I'm a caring compassionate listener and also actively engage with clients to elicit thoughts, feelings, and strategies for healing. My specialties include eating disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, couples, family issues, parenting, and teens. My therapy approach is directive and problem-solving while encouraging self-acceptance and compassion. I believe that everyone is capable of change at their own rate and comfort level. I help my clients eliminate self-critical thinking that too often sabotages their happiness and their relationships.
(925) 392-3516 View (925) 392-3516
Photo of Keri Turner, PsyD, Psychologist
Keri Turner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
As I am aware that the process of searching for a therapist can be overwhelming, I would like to commend you for taking this first step. You will find that I provide a warm, respectful environment which will make it more comfortable for you to engage in the process of understanding yourself and your relationships more deeply and fully. I believe that each person is unique, and, together, with genuine curiosity and a safe atmosphere, we will uncover your individual needs.
As I am aware that the process of searching for a therapist can be overwhelming, I would like to commend you for taking this first step. You will find that I provide a warm, respectful environment which will make it more comfortable for you to engage in the process of understanding yourself and your relationships more deeply and fully. I believe that each person is unique, and, together, with genuine curiosity and a safe atmosphere, we will uncover your individual needs.
(925) 765-9036 View (925) 765-9036
Photo of Gwynne Gilson, MFT, SEP, OICC, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gwynne Gilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, SEP, OICC, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
It's been too long since you felt peaceful, present, and comfortable-if ever. Your brain is always going–worried about the future, criticizing yourself about the past, & hyper-sensitive about what people think of you. Your thoughts affect your body, too, with tension in your muscles, uneasiness in your gut, and a heartbeat that revs up at the drop of a hat. You can barely remember what it's like to be relaxed; just getting through the day takes work, and sleep is a nightly struggle. It's impacting your health, work, parenting, and relationships. It's hard not to feel hopeless. You're looking for somewhere to turn.
It's been too long since you felt peaceful, present, and comfortable-if ever. Your brain is always going–worried about the future, criticizing yourself about the past, & hyper-sensitive about what people think of you. Your thoughts affect your body, too, with tension in your muscles, uneasiness in your gut, and a heartbeat that revs up at the drop of a hat. You can barely remember what it's like to be relaxed; just getting through the day takes work, and sleep is a nightly struggle. It's impacting your health, work, parenting, and relationships. It's hard not to feel hopeless. You're looking for somewhere to turn.
(925) 308-5289 View (925) 308-5289
Photo of Diana Cheryl Methfessel, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Cheryl Methfessel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Do you work from home, home school your children, care for a homebound relative or are just too busy traveling to work to schedule therapy appointments across town? Are you someone who works late evenings or works a “night shift” schedule and cannot see a therapist under the normal operative hours that most therapists offer? My private practice offers a solution to your dilemma. I only provide secure video therapy from the comfort and convenience of your home. I provide services to adults, couples, and families based in California only.
Do you work from home, home school your children, care for a homebound relative or are just too busy traveling to work to schedule therapy appointments across town? Are you someone who works late evenings or works a “night shift” schedule and cannot see a therapist under the normal operative hours that most therapists offer? My private practice offers a solution to your dilemma. I only provide secure video therapy from the comfort and convenience of your home. I provide services to adults, couples, and families based in California only.
(415) 234-7791 View (415) 234-7791
Photo of John Charles Bieda Jr, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Charles Bieda Jr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Currently I am only offering Teletherapy via hipaa compliant methods. I enjoy working with clients looking to make positive changes in their life. I work with them to develop coping skills to assist them in managing extreme emotional states and distress, as well as to develop increased interpersonal skills. By developing communication skills clients are able to improve their relationships in all areas of their lives. I have expertise working with a diverse spectrum of individuals including those in non-mainstream relationships and those with chronic mental illness.
Currently I am only offering Teletherapy via hipaa compliant methods. I enjoy working with clients looking to make positive changes in their life. I work with them to develop coping skills to assist them in managing extreme emotional states and distress, as well as to develop increased interpersonal skills. By developing communication skills clients are able to improve their relationships in all areas of their lives. I have expertise working with a diverse spectrum of individuals including those in non-mainstream relationships and those with chronic mental illness.
(415) 691-6505 View (415) 691-6505
Photo of Julie Weigel - Parenting, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Weigel - Parenting
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
Does your child's anxiety keep YOU up at night and have you walking on eggshells, terrified of triggering their next emotional meltdown? Is your child's defiant behavior leaving you feeling like a complete failure? As a parenting therapist, I've helped hundreds of parents just like you to break free from the cycle of worry and self-doubt, and to reclaim the joy and success possible in parenting. I guide individuals, families, and couples toward finding peace through improved relationships. This is possible through building skill with self-awareness, boundary setting, and assertive communication.
Does your child's anxiety keep YOU up at night and have you walking on eggshells, terrified of triggering their next emotional meltdown? Is your child's defiant behavior leaving you feeling like a complete failure? As a parenting therapist, I've helped hundreds of parents just like you to break free from the cycle of worry and self-doubt, and to reclaim the joy and success possible in parenting. I guide individuals, families, and couples toward finding peace through improved relationships. This is possible through building skill with self-awareness, boundary setting, and assertive communication.
(510) 878-4486 View (510) 878-4486
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Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.