Transgender Therapists in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
![Photo of Taryn Feuerberg, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/617a233a-a532-40c3-bc28-59853d77dd82/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taryn Feuerberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
I provide supportive therapy services to clients struggling with all kinds of issues, and all different levels of functioning. Whether you have several issues you wish to process in just a few sessions with an objective ear, or you have just been released from higher psychiatric levels of care, I have space and availability for you. I am very flexible sometimes seeing clients online or in person, sometimes once per month or once per week. My ideal clients strongly desire to change their lives, explore parts of themselves, or use our time and space to build on the hard work they have already done.
I provide supportive therapy services to clients struggling with all kinds of issues, and all different levels of functioning. Whether you have several issues you wish to process in just a few sessions with an objective ear, or you have just been released from higher psychiatric levels of care, I have space and availability for you. I am very flexible sometimes seeing clients online or in person, sometimes once per month or once per week. My ideal clients strongly desire to change their lives, explore parts of themselves, or use our time and space to build on the hard work they have already done.
![Photo of Francesca Kagy-Lauro, MS, APCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14579245-c4e0-42b4-a559-d43198be1919/1/320x400.jpeg)
Francesca Kagy-Lauro
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, APCC
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (Online Only)
You may want to work with me if you are a parent looking for support for your child, an adolescent/teen that needs someone to talk things through such as home/relationship/school stressors, a young adult balancing life's problems, or a couple looking for communication help.
You may want to work with me if you are a parent looking for support for your child, an adolescent/teen that needs someone to talk things through such as home/relationship/school stressors, a young adult balancing life's problems, or a couple looking for communication help.
![Photo of Carol Francis - Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca3c1ae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
![Photo of Savannah M Fine, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20799204-2948-48ec-96a8-ba53b9732a07/2/320x400.jpeg)
Savannah M Fine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Savannah M. Fine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 139871 and a Certified Sex Therapist supporting human beings in the state of California. I am polyam, ENM, kink and LGBTQ+ affirming, and I work with individuals, partners, and families who are looking to form a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their communities. I understand that healing and growth looks different for each individual and hope to provide the support necessary for your mind, body, and soul.
Hello! My name is Savannah M. Fine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 139871 and a Certified Sex Therapist supporting human beings in the state of California. I am polyam, ENM, kink and LGBTQ+ affirming, and I work with individuals, partners, and families who are looking to form a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their communities. I understand that healing and growth looks different for each individual and hope to provide the support necessary for your mind, body, and soul.
![Photo of Lynn Forman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/697d99cf-5ee5-4a3f-a10f-9e6b59b5a5fe/1/320x400.png)
Have you ever thought to yourself, "How did I get here? This isn't the life I imagined for myself but I'm not sure how to change it."? Hi, my name is Lynn Forman and I am a licensed psychotherapist with PATH. My goal is to assist you in navigating the current challenges you are experiencing in life and to help guide you to where you want to be. I have been licensed and practicing since 2007, working with adults, older adults and teens in both outpatient and forensic settings. I have a BA in developmental psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara. I obtained an MA in counseling psychology from Chapman University
Have you ever thought to yourself, "How did I get here? This isn't the life I imagined for myself but I'm not sure how to change it."? Hi, my name is Lynn Forman and I am a licensed psychotherapist with PATH. My goal is to assist you in navigating the current challenges you are experiencing in life and to help guide you to where you want to be. I have been licensed and practicing since 2007, working with adults, older adults and teens in both outpatient and forensic settings. I have a BA in developmental psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara. I obtained an MA in counseling psychology from Chapman University
![Photo of Beverly Jean Scott - Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor, BS, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c090bf9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
![Photo of Patricia Rayas-Tabres - Hillside Counseling Center, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a73acd0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hillside Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and just don't know what else to do? In therapy, I provide an environment in which you can feel safe and encouraged when working through relationship issues or to make changes when life has become too stressful. I will work with you to help bring back hope, peace, and balance into your life. Change may not be easy but it is possible. I speak Spanish fluently and have worked with individuals, couples and families for years honoring their journey, culture, and uniqueness.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and just don't know what else to do? In therapy, I provide an environment in which you can feel safe and encouraged when working through relationship issues or to make changes when life has become too stressful. I will work with you to help bring back hope, peace, and balance into your life. Change may not be easy but it is possible. I speak Spanish fluently and have worked with individuals, couples and families for years honoring their journey, culture, and uniqueness.
![Photo of Sheila Kelly, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54b41d41-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in serving transitional age young adult clients however am very comfortable with teens through mid-life. My clients struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, intense relationships, codependency and substance use. I am certified in EMDR therapy and have completed Level 3 of Gottman Method couple's therapy. My passion is to assist people discover their core selves while maintaining acceptance, intimacy, and connection in relationships.
I specialize in serving transitional age young adult clients however am very comfortable with teens through mid-life. My clients struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, intense relationships, codependency and substance use. I am certified in EMDR therapy and have completed Level 3 of Gottman Method couple's therapy. My passion is to assist people discover their core selves while maintaining acceptance, intimacy, and connection in relationships.
![Photo of Matthew D Fenn, AMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb2008bd-28c3-4c60-bce2-3c8acd2f65c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew D Fenn
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Waitlist for new clients
I received my BA from Chapman University and an MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California. I am currently enrolled in a Clinical Psychology PhD program at Alliant University. I have multiple years of experience working with diverse individuals and couples facing a wide variety of experiences. I have primarily worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and personality disorders as well as trauma, abuse, and intimate partner violence. I work from a holistic orientation utilizing a variety of methodologies including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic orientations.
I received my BA from Chapman University and an MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California. I am currently enrolled in a Clinical Psychology PhD program at Alliant University. I have multiple years of experience working with diverse individuals and couples facing a wide variety of experiences. I have primarily worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and personality disorders as well as trauma, abuse, and intimate partner violence. I work from a holistic orientation utilizing a variety of methodologies including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic orientations.
![Photo of Kellie Jarvie, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18ca1d83-eda5-4492-b8f0-8b2377e51d3d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emotional pain, discomfort, and general dissatisfaction are the greatest motivators for change and generally are what lead people to seek psychotherapy. My primary goal is to help you implement change for improved emotional and relationship health. I strive to help people uncover what is “not working” in their lives and provide them with tools that will assist them in working through difficult situations. My therapeutic style is relatable and down-to-earth, and I believe an excellent client-therapist relationship is a key to the therapeutic process.
Emotional pain, discomfort, and general dissatisfaction are the greatest motivators for change and generally are what lead people to seek psychotherapy. My primary goal is to help you implement change for improved emotional and relationship health. I strive to help people uncover what is “not working” in their lives and provide them with tools that will assist them in working through difficult situations. My therapeutic style is relatable and down-to-earth, and I believe an excellent client-therapist relationship is a key to the therapeutic process.
![Photo of Kasey Lafferty, MSc, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f2cecc0-69ab-42dd-a75c-c08604b07ef5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kasey Lafferty
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Are you ready to make changes in your life and relationships? I work with individuals, couples and families in order to help them lead more fulfilling lives. Clients of mine are often looking for support in developing effective coping skills to manage difficult emotions/urges, strategies for improving communication/connection and ways to reduce conflict/turmoil in their lives.
Are you ready to make changes in your life and relationships? I work with individuals, couples and families in order to help them lead more fulfilling lives. Clients of mine are often looking for support in developing effective coping skills to manage difficult emotions/urges, strategies for improving communication/connection and ways to reduce conflict/turmoil in their lives.
![Photo of Karen Kochenburg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/769afeb2-a2d3-46cb-b8ec-18b8e785d182/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Kochenburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (Online Only)
I believe in the healing power of gentle curiosity and deep listening. My clients' safety and comfort are my highest priority. I will help you identify your goals for therapy and share my vision for how we can work together to achieve them. My career extends over 25 years of helping people harness their strengths to overcome obstacles and get stronger and happier.
I believe in the healing power of gentle curiosity and deep listening. My clients' safety and comfort are my highest priority. I will help you identify your goals for therapy and share my vision for how we can work together to achieve them. My career extends over 25 years of helping people harness their strengths to overcome obstacles and get stronger and happier.
![Photo of April Rankin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20756f59-a2ce-4049-bbab-040e20f09966/2/320x400.jpeg)
April Rankin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (Online Only)
I use a combination of strength-based, solution-focused strategies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy depending on the needs or "fit" for the client. I use these as they are measurable and reliable for a variety of challenges, ages, and personalities. I tailor each treatment plan for the client depending upon their resources.
I use a combination of strength-based, solution-focused strategies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy depending on the needs or "fit" for the client. I use these as they are measurable and reliable for a variety of challenges, ages, and personalities. I tailor each treatment plan for the client depending upon their resources.
![Photo of Elizabeth Rousseau, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88b473c0-4a31-4ed4-bfa5-af326af61afb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Rousseau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (Online Only)
I firmly believe that each individual possesses the innate resilience and strength to navigate life's challenges. My role is to provide a safe, warm, and supportive environment where clients can rediscover these resources within themselves. I prioritize creating a space where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences, emotions, and goals without judgment, allowing for deep self-reflection and growth. Whether you're seeking to heal past wounds, navigating stressful life transitions, or seeking to develop stronger relationships with loved ones, we will work together to unlock your full potential for growth and healing.
I firmly believe that each individual possesses the innate resilience and strength to navigate life's challenges. My role is to provide a safe, warm, and supportive environment where clients can rediscover these resources within themselves. I prioritize creating a space where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences, emotions, and goals without judgment, allowing for deep self-reflection and growth. Whether you're seeking to heal past wounds, navigating stressful life transitions, or seeking to develop stronger relationships with loved ones, we will work together to unlock your full potential for growth and healing.
![Photo of Carol Francis - Counseling for Couples & Families, PsyD, MFCC, CHT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca388cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling for Couples & Families
Psychologist, PsyD, MFCC, CHT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Amber Robison, LCSW, PPSC, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e933355-1623-44cf-be9c-960f6840d8d2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Robison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC, MS
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275 (Online Only)
I have specialized training and am passionate in supporting Transgender, Gender Nonconforming, and LGBTQ(IA+) individuals.
Alliance Family Counseling Services is led by Amber Robison, LCSW. I have over 19 years experience as a clinical therapist providing therapy to adults, couples, families, children, and adolescents. I am a solution-focused therapist and my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical strategies to help clients/families effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual/family to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth to cope with the challenges faced.
I have specialized training and am passionate in supporting Transgender, Gender Nonconforming, and LGBTQ(IA+) individuals.
Alliance Family Counseling Services is led by Amber Robison, LCSW. I have over 19 years experience as a clinical therapist providing therapy to adults, couples, families, children, and adolescents. I am a solution-focused therapist and my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical strategies to help clients/families effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual/family to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth to cope with the challenges faced.
![Photo of Kayleigh Soto, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/415190fb-33b8-40d9-9aa2-8f7729fc1e61/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kayleigh Soto
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
She specializes in the treatment of veterans and their families, sexual and combat trauma, life transitions (including transgender), anxiety, and relationships.
NOT ACCEPTING CLIENTS At THIS TIME. We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
She specializes in the treatment of veterans and their families, sexual and combat trauma, life transitions (including transgender), anxiety, and relationships.
NOT ACCEPTING CLIENTS At THIS TIME. We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
![Photo of Ricardo Bautista, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1585ee5-425f-4cbb-b0f1-94963ed82a8e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ricardo Bautista
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274 (Online Only)
I enjoy empowering patients to reach their goals by building rapport, providing psychoeducation, and providing feedback to make changes in behavior. I meet with the patient but challenge them when needed. I use different modalities to help the patient to accomplish their goals. Providing coping skills to manage symptoms. I also like to use patients' stories to reflect on themselves and to focus on the present to move forward, I have a lot of experience with Gender Clinic, college students and life transitions working with different ages.I enjoy helping college students develop coping skills to thrive.
I enjoy empowering patients to reach their goals by building rapport, providing psychoeducation, and providing feedback to make changes in behavior. I meet with the patient but challenge them when needed. I use different modalities to help the patient to accomplish their goals. Providing coping skills to manage symptoms. I also like to use patients' stories to reflect on themselves and to focus on the present to move forward, I have a lot of experience with Gender Clinic, college students and life transitions working with different ages.I enjoy helping college students develop coping skills to thrive.
![Photo of Joy Jaco, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1cfd960-2161-405d-b137-660b4e1a96c9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joy Jaco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274 (Online Only)
I provide competent, compassionate mental health care with a flare of comic relief. I approach psychological work from a non-dualistic lens. I believe each of us has inherent wisdom and that we all need support and reminders to more readily access our internal and external resources. I look forward to walking side by side with you on your journey of growth, reflection, and healing. I'm skilled at providing in-depth mental health assessments/diagnostics to support clients in better understanding their challenges and I provide congruent coping strategies/treatment.
I provide competent, compassionate mental health care with a flare of comic relief. I approach psychological work from a non-dualistic lens. I believe each of us has inherent wisdom and that we all need support and reminders to more readily access our internal and external resources. I look forward to walking side by side with you on your journey of growth, reflection, and healing. I'm skilled at providing in-depth mental health assessments/diagnostics to support clients in better understanding their challenges and I provide congruent coping strategies/treatment.
![Photo of Ramona Benner, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31d8db40-d348-45d1-b31e-16c5bebd2d7e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ramona Benner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 (Online Only)
Life can feel overwhelming. Within a collaborative setting, we can explore ways to make life feel more manageable and, ultimately, more enjoyable. The quality of the therapeutic relationship itself has been shown to significantly influence treatment outcomes. My approach emphasizes authenticity and the idea that growth can happen while in a nourishing setting. I assist clients with developing sustainable coping strategies, uncovering patterns, and navigating relational dynamics. My goal is to help clients find realistic solutions within their unique circumstances.
Life can feel overwhelming. Within a collaborative setting, we can explore ways to make life feel more manageable and, ultimately, more enjoyable. The quality of the therapeutic relationship itself has been shown to significantly influence treatment outcomes. My approach emphasizes authenticity and the idea that growth can happen while in a nourishing setting. I assist clients with developing sustainable coping strategies, uncovering patterns, and navigating relational dynamics. My goal is to help clients find realistic solutions within their unique circumstances.
See more therapy options for Rancho Palos Verdes
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Rancho Palos Verdes
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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.