LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in San Bernardino, CA

Photo of Sunni Meador, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sunni Meador
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92406  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome! I am Sunni Meador (They/them) and I am a Queer Associate Clinical Social Worker. I am very passionate about alternative forms of self and community care. I have been working in the mental health field for three years and in the non-profit health sector for eight. Our clinical work together is a collaborative practice that we work on together. It requires willingness and boundary setting. We also define our own set of rules for the relationship so we may talk or navigate though uncomfortable topics.
Hello and Welcome! I am Sunni Meador (They/them) and I am a Queer Associate Clinical Social Worker. I am very passionate about alternative forms of self and community care. I have been working in the mental health field for three years and in the non-profit health sector for eight. Our clinical work together is a collaborative practice that we work on together. It requires willingness and boundary setting. We also define our own set of rules for the relationship so we may talk or navigate though uncomfortable topics.
(951) 723-9630 View (951) 723-9630
Photo of Annissa Crow, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Annissa Crow
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92404  (Online Only)
I have experience working with issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, trauma, racial identity, LGBTQIA+, and gender-expansive concerns.
My name is Annissa, my pronouns are she/they, and I am an AMFT with Diaspora Therapy Group. My work centers on affirmation, empowerment, and celebration of intersectionality. Many clients have come into therapy seeking someone who can resonate with the feeling of being forgotten, misunderstood, or told that they are both “too much” and “not enough”. In our work together, clients and I explore all aspects of their identity while navigating and acknowledging challenges faced through systemic issues. Together we can collaborate to foster a safer space to authentically work, talk, and feel without fear of judgment.
I have experience working with issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, trauma, racial identity, LGBTQIA+, and gender-expansive concerns.
My name is Annissa, my pronouns are she/they, and I am an AMFT with Diaspora Therapy Group. My work centers on affirmation, empowerment, and celebration of intersectionality. Many clients have come into therapy seeking someone who can resonate with the feeling of being forgotten, misunderstood, or told that they are both “too much” and “not enough”. In our work together, clients and I explore all aspects of their identity while navigating and acknowledging challenges faced through systemic issues. Together we can collaborate to foster a safer space to authentically work, talk, and feel without fear of judgment.
(760) 973-2034 View (760) 973-2034
Photo of Cleo Oubre - Embracing Therapy with Cleo Oubre, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Embracing Therapy with Cleo Oubre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Bernardino, CA 92407  (Online Only)
I have been professionally working with marginalized communities, specifically BIPOC & LGBTQ folks, and survivors of violence since 2015.
How would you rate the quality of your relationships at this moment? Do you enjoy your own company? How is your connection with your family? Do you feel you are connected to a particular community? Any community? Let's explore the various manifestations of loneliness and intimacy. Your overall well-being is determined by the status of your intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships. I want to work with you to create the life you deserve & desire - let's work toward it together.
I have been professionally working with marginalized communities, specifically BIPOC & LGBTQ folks, and survivors of violence since 2015.
How would you rate the quality of your relationships at this moment? Do you enjoy your own company? How is your connection with your family? Do you feel you are connected to a particular community? Any community? Let's explore the various manifestations of loneliness and intimacy. Your overall well-being is determined by the status of your intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships. I want to work with you to create the life you deserve & desire - let's work toward it together.
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Photo of A. K. Parker, MS, LPCC, PPS
A. K. Parker
MS, LPCC, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Bernardino, CA 92408  (Online Only)
Using various therapeutic models and evidenced based interventions I specialize in addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, family conflict, relational issues, behavioral issues with children/ teens, and various stressors that arise from having a marginalized identity (racial minority, LGBTQIA+, etc.
Sometimes we can start to feel overwhelmed by life. Various triggers such as identity stress, loss, life transitions, traumatic events, anxious feelings, and relational conflict can start to feel unbearable. This can make carrying on day to day activities very challenging. Whether or not you recognize these behaviors in yourself, your children, or your family as a collective, we can work collaboratively towards addressing your unique needs. You are not alone in this. Today you are one step closer to a more authentic you where you feel empowered and on a path to positive growth and well-being.
Using various therapeutic models and evidenced based interventions I specialize in addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, family conflict, relational issues, behavioral issues with children/ teens, and various stressors that arise from having a marginalized identity (racial minority, LGBTQIA+, etc.
Sometimes we can start to feel overwhelmed by life. Various triggers such as identity stress, loss, life transitions, traumatic events, anxious feelings, and relational conflict can start to feel unbearable. This can make carrying on day to day activities very challenging. Whether or not you recognize these behaviors in yourself, your children, or your family as a collective, we can work collaboratively towards addressing your unique needs. You are not alone in this. Today you are one step closer to a more authentic you where you feel empowered and on a path to positive growth and well-being.
(951) 783-3233 View (951) 783-3233
Photo of Chanel Treadwell, LPCC, PPS
Chanel Treadwell
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, PPS
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92408
Your life and happiness are important to me! The human experience is not always easy and sometimes, we need support along our journeys. Whatever your experience, concerns, needs, or aspirations for personal growth, my desire is to work with you toward those goals. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I know the development years can be difficult to navigate, especially in our ever-changing world, both for children as well as parents and guardians. I am an LGBTQ+ Ally and also specialize in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, with all age groups, as well as academic-related concerns.
Your life and happiness are important to me! The human experience is not always easy and sometimes, we need support along our journeys. Whatever your experience, concerns, needs, or aspirations for personal growth, my desire is to work with you toward those goals. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I know the development years can be difficult to navigate, especially in our ever-changing world, both for children as well as parents and guardians. I am an LGBTQ+ Ally and also specialize in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, with all age groups, as well as academic-related concerns.
(909) 646-4584 View (909) 646-4584
Photo of Maribel Mancillas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maribel Mancillas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92407  (Online Only)
I am Maribel Mancillas, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing culturally appropriate psychotherapy for 15 years to a variety of vulnerable minority groups such as LGBTQ+ and Spanish speaking community. I work with both couples and individuals. Whether individual or couples work, we collaborate together to uncover patterns in thoughts and behaviors that do not serve you and stop you from living your life. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as a treatment modality; however, therapy is specific to the Client's needs.
I am Maribel Mancillas, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing culturally appropriate psychotherapy for 15 years to a variety of vulnerable minority groups such as LGBTQ+ and Spanish speaking community. I work with both couples and individuals. Whether individual or couples work, we collaborate together to uncover patterns in thoughts and behaviors that do not serve you and stop you from living your life. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as a treatment modality; however, therapy is specific to the Client's needs.
(760) 965-8116 View (760) 965-8116
Photo of Colleen Nomsa Chali - Bridge Vision Licensed Clinical Social Worker Inc, PsyD, LCSW, MSW, BA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridge Vision Licensed Clinical Social Worker Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, MSW, BA
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92401
Bridge Vision is a group practice and includes therapists/practitioners with combined experience of more than 70 years. They bring to the practice expertise in providing individual and family therapy, case management, mental health assessments, couples therapy, child development assessments, sexual orientation therapy, Dialectical Behavior therapy and LGBTQ counseling, forensic evaluations, PTSD and other psychological assessments, grief/loss counseling, neuro-psych assessments, addictive behavior counseling, crisis counseling and play therapy.
Bridge Vision is a group practice and includes therapists/practitioners with combined experience of more than 70 years. They bring to the practice expertise in providing individual and family therapy, case management, mental health assessments, couples therapy, child development assessments, sexual orientation therapy, Dialectical Behavior therapy and LGBTQ counseling, forensic evaluations, PTSD and other psychological assessments, grief/loss counseling, neuro-psych assessments, addictive behavior counseling, crisis counseling and play therapy.
(909) 300-8245 View (909) 300-8245
Photo of Raymond Zamudio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Raymond Zamudio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92407
Hello, my name is Ray Zamudio. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist since 2008. My approach to therapy is being present with my clients to use my skills and knowledge to provide relief to what is troubling them. The focus areas of my practice are depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Hello, my name is Ray Zamudio. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist since 2008. My approach to therapy is being present with my clients to use my skills and knowledge to provide relief to what is troubling them. The focus areas of my practice are depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
(760) 493-7913 View (760) 493-7913
Photo of Ted Coleman, PhD, MS, LPCC, FACHA
Ted Coleman
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, MS, LPCC, FACHA
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92407
, stages of life, LGBTQ+, or other identity concerns.
A Greek philosopher told us the only thing constant is change; it seems life is full of changes and challenges. When we're confident and strong, we usually adapt fairly well to stresses and struggles. It's different, though, when unpleasant emotions or complex issues seem to drain practically all the energy we can muster just to get through the day. Feeling overly confused or frustrated, maybe even lost or helpless, might mean it's time to reach out for help to identify, work through, and manage whatever is getting in the way of our happiness and peace of mind. I might be just the person who can do that for you.
, stages of life, LGBTQ+, or other identity concerns.
A Greek philosopher told us the only thing constant is change; it seems life is full of changes and challenges. When we're confident and strong, we usually adapt fairly well to stresses and struggles. It's different, though, when unpleasant emotions or complex issues seem to drain practically all the energy we can muster just to get through the day. Feeling overly confused or frustrated, maybe even lost or helpless, might mean it's time to reach out for help to identify, work through, and manage whatever is getting in the way of our happiness and peace of mind. I might be just the person who can do that for you.
(909) 318-1480 View (909) 318-1480
Photo of Jacqueline Eppinger, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline Eppinger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92404  (Online Only)
As a chronically ill lesbian, I have found specializing in working with chronic illness and lgbtq folk has been especially meaningful to me.
I’m Jackie Eppinger and I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist. I approach therapy with an affirming lens that focuses on supporting my clients through challenging periods in their lives. My focused areas of practice include chronic illness, cancer, the LGBTQ community, and relationships/attachment.
As a chronically ill lesbian, I have found specializing in working with chronic illness and lgbtq folk has been especially meaningful to me.
I’m Jackie Eppinger and I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist. I approach therapy with an affirming lens that focuses on supporting my clients through challenging periods in their lives. My focused areas of practice include chronic illness, cancer, the LGBTQ community, and relationships/attachment.
(916) 796-1515 View (916) 796-1515
Photo of Sara Vazquez-Cutler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Vazquez-Cutler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92410
Hello, my name is Sara Vazquez-Cutler, and I am a first-generation Latina. My pronouns are she/her/they and I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my Master's of Science in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling through CSU Fresno. I have been working in the psychotherapy field for the past 5 years as an MFT trainee, registered associate MFT, and now as a Licensed MFT. I view therapy as a collaborative approach between you and me working toward the same goals.
Hello, my name is Sara Vazquez-Cutler, and I am a first-generation Latina. My pronouns are she/her/they and I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my Master's of Science in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling through CSU Fresno. I have been working in the psychotherapy field for the past 5 years as an MFT trainee, registered associate MFT, and now as a Licensed MFT. I view therapy as a collaborative approach between you and me working toward the same goals.
(925) 320-3735 View (925) 320-3735
Photo of Chase Uribe, MSW, ASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chase Uribe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Bernardino, CA 92401
Hi! My name is Chase Uribe. I see people in-person in our office, in parks & nature & telehealth anywhere in CA. I provide therapy to youth, adults of all ages for individual therapy & couples/relationships for counseling/therapy & marital counseling. My experience includes supporting people with anxiety, depression, grief & loss, PTSD, suicidal ideation/thoughts & trauma. My experience includes supporting people of diverse communities including LGBTQ+, Disabilities, DACA, Immigrant, Women, People with Cancer, Firefighters, Law Enforcement & HR Professionals. I provide Gender Affirming Care Letters, ESA Letters, RA Letters & more.
Hi! My name is Chase Uribe. I see people in-person in our office, in parks & nature & telehealth anywhere in CA. I provide therapy to youth, adults of all ages for individual therapy & couples/relationships for counseling/therapy & marital counseling. My experience includes supporting people with anxiety, depression, grief & loss, PTSD, suicidal ideation/thoughts & trauma. My experience includes supporting people of diverse communities including LGBTQ+, Disabilities, DACA, Immigrant, Women, People with Cancer, Firefighters, Law Enforcement & HR Professionals. I provide Gender Affirming Care Letters, ESA Letters, RA Letters & more.
(909) 281-7619 View (909) 281-7619
Photo of Sonia Medina, AMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonia Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Bernardino, CA 92408
My role emphasizes cultural competence, supporting diverse populations including ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ communities, & system impacted individuals.
Helping others has always been my life’s passion. I am a dedicated mental health professional with an extensive range of certifications, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) informed, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), and many others. I am trained in adaptive leadership, counseling on access to lethal means, and managing challenging situations in structured group therapy. My expertise extends to understanding recovery principles, conducting clinical assessments, and employing wellness strategies that support recovery.
My role emphasizes cultural competence, supporting diverse populations including ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ communities, & system impacted individuals.
Helping others has always been my life’s passion. I am a dedicated mental health professional with an extensive range of certifications, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) informed, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), and many others. I am trained in adaptive leadership, counseling on access to lethal means, and managing challenging situations in structured group therapy. My expertise extends to understanding recovery principles, conducting clinical assessments, and employing wellness strategies that support recovery.
(951) 717-3970 View (951) 717-3970
Photo of Ricardo Martinez, CP, Psychologist
Ricardo Martinez
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92405
Hi there, I'm Dr. Rick. My name is Dr. Ricardo (Rick) Martinez and I am a Licensed Psychologist based in Pasadena, CA and working with clients across California via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in helping clients who struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, those with alcohol and/or substance abuse issues, their family members, and those in recovery. I also specialize in serving clients from diverse multicultural backgrounds including those from the LGBTQ+ community.
Hi there, I'm Dr. Rick. My name is Dr. Ricardo (Rick) Martinez and I am a Licensed Psychologist based in Pasadena, CA and working with clients across California via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in helping clients who struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, those with alcohol and/or substance abuse issues, their family members, and those in recovery. I also specialize in serving clients from diverse multicultural backgrounds including those from the LGBTQ+ community.
(650) 955-0134 View (650) 955-0134
Photo of Michael Stample, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Stample
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92405
Hello, I'm Michael F. Stample, PhD, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I work extensively with individual adults, couples and families. My primary expertise is in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, dual diagnosis, LGBTQ+ and transgender healthcare. I mostly work with adults over age 17 or 18, through the later years. While psychiatric diagnoses have their uses, I prefer to see my clients as dealing with "problems of living." I work comfortably with psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and other evidence-based therapies. My early training included internship at the Jung Institute of Los Angeles.
Hello, I'm Michael F. Stample, PhD, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I work extensively with individual adults, couples and families. My primary expertise is in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, dual diagnosis, LGBTQ+ and transgender healthcare. I mostly work with adults over age 17 or 18, through the later years. While psychiatric diagnoses have their uses, I prefer to see my clients as dealing with "problems of living." I work comfortably with psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and other evidence-based therapies. My early training included internship at the Jung Institute of Los Angeles.
(415) 639-5417 View (415) 639-5417
Photo of Audrey R Sarto - Inspiration Point Counseling, Inc., MSW, ACSW
Inspiration Point Counseling, Inc.
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92403  (Online Only)
I have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care.
I think one of the most beautiful aspects about life is the human capacity to heal and grow from life’s challenges. I am passionate about working with individuals who have been disempowered by society, with an emphasis on life transitions, grief, childhood trauma, intergenerational trauma, family of origin issues, depression, anxiety, sexuality, gender, non-monogamy, body-image issues, oppression, and relational challenges. I offer an open-minded, easy-going, and supportive approach to help you navigate through life's stressors and find purpose in your life.
I have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care.
I think one of the most beautiful aspects about life is the human capacity to heal and grow from life’s challenges. I am passionate about working with individuals who have been disempowered by society, with an emphasis on life transitions, grief, childhood trauma, intergenerational trauma, family of origin issues, depression, anxiety, sexuality, gender, non-monogamy, body-image issues, oppression, and relational challenges. I offer an open-minded, easy-going, and supportive approach to help you navigate through life's stressors and find purpose in your life.
(805) 429-8732 View (805) 429-8732
Photo of Melina Miranda, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Melina Miranda
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92408  (Online Only)
What happens when you and your spouse disagree? Do you go round and round with no resolution? Or does one of you get frustrated and stop talking, then you both stop talking? If you feel stuck and it seems there is no way to make things better, you may wonder if your relationship can change. I have good news. There is a path to change, but your relationship is stuck in a negative cycle. This negative cycle keeps you from being able to communicate, resolve conflict, and discuss problems. If your relationship is struggling, it is probably because you are caught in a negative cycle. I want to help you get out of the negative cycle.
What happens when you and your spouse disagree? Do you go round and round with no resolution? Or does one of you get frustrated and stop talking, then you both stop talking? If you feel stuck and it seems there is no way to make things better, you may wonder if your relationship can change. I have good news. There is a path to change, but your relationship is stuck in a negative cycle. This negative cycle keeps you from being able to communicate, resolve conflict, and discuss problems. If your relationship is struggling, it is probably because you are caught in a negative cycle. I want to help you get out of the negative cycle.
(951) 709-0641 View (951) 709-0641
Photo of Oscar Collins - C&C Center For Healing , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
C&C Center For Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Bernardino, CA 92401
Due to current events around COVID 19 I am offering Telehealth sessions. My passion to work with people started when I was placed into foster care at 15. It was during this time I realized how life experiences can change and drive our moods and behaviors. Trauma impacts and influences everyone and can alter the way we perceive and interact with people and the world. I will empower my client's to address their past traumatic events and begin to heal themselves through therapy. I believe that everyone has resilience within them and with the right support, client's are able to take back control of their lives.
Due to current events around COVID 19 I am offering Telehealth sessions. My passion to work with people started when I was placed into foster care at 15. It was during this time I realized how life experiences can change and drive our moods and behaviors. Trauma impacts and influences everyone and can alter the way we perceive and interact with people and the world. I will empower my client's to address their past traumatic events and begin to heal themselves through therapy. I believe that everyone has resilience within them and with the right support, client's are able to take back control of their lives.
(909) 323-0458 View (909) 323-0458
Photo of Crystal Britt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Britt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I know what it's like to wonder if you're broken. You're feeling confused, frustrated, angry, and at war with yourself. I know you feel anxious all the time. That finding a direction for yourself is hard, because of the self-loathing that has become so normal for you, you don't even notice it half the time. I know that you know you "should" be accepting of your body and who you are, but you have tried in a million different ways and don't know how. So you get one more iced coffee; stay a little longer at work; binge that comfort show one more time, in an attempt to stave off the loneliness and pain.
I know what it's like to wonder if you're broken. You're feeling confused, frustrated, angry, and at war with yourself. I know you feel anxious all the time. That finding a direction for yourself is hard, because of the self-loathing that has become so normal for you, you don't even notice it half the time. I know that you know you "should" be accepting of your body and who you are, but you have tried in a million different ways and don't know how. So you get one more iced coffee; stay a little longer at work; binge that comfort show one more time, in an attempt to stave off the loneliness and pain.
(951) 414-3880 View (951) 414-3880
Dr. Kwon's Office for Mental Health
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92401
Psychotherapy and psychological assessment are offered by Dr. Kwon (Clinical Psychologist licensed in CA and NY) for diverse emotional experiences and behavioral concerns. Working with Dr. K, patients typically experience increasing self-awareness, self-regulation, and sense of inner freedom, often accompanied by compassion for self and others. Most patients are seen once a week for 3–5 months. After that, sessions take place less often for a few more months toward closure. Before committing yourself for services, you are encouraged to try two or three sessions and let your experiences guide you to make an informed decision.
Psychotherapy and psychological assessment are offered by Dr. Kwon (Clinical Psychologist licensed in CA and NY) for diverse emotional experiences and behavioral concerns. Working with Dr. K, patients typically experience increasing self-awareness, self-regulation, and sense of inner freedom, often accompanied by compassion for self and others. Most patients are seen once a week for 3–5 months. After that, sessions take place less often for a few more months toward closure. Before committing yourself for services, you are encouraged to try two or three sessions and let your experiences guide you to make an informed decision.
(909) 403-7522 View (909) 403-7522
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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.