LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in San Carlos, CA
Anna M Randall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DHS, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
I'm here to help find fulfilling and lifelong sexual/intimate satisfaction, whether you are partnered or single, straight, gay, bi, poly, kinky, asexual, furry or fandom. These days, so many of us are seeking less stress and more balance. The Bay Area is a worldly place, many come excited by its progressive sexual energy. Others may find sex confusing, challenging to talk about, or even perhaps, their worst nightmare. Most want better ways to communicate, especially about sex; to deepen love and connection or for a path to restore trust and find pleasure. Sex can be juicy and life-affirming, I am here to help you find that.
I'm here to help find fulfilling and lifelong sexual/intimate satisfaction, whether you are partnered or single, straight, gay, bi, poly, kinky, asexual, furry or fandom. These days, so many of us are seeking less stress and more balance. The Bay Area is a worldly place, many come excited by its progressive sexual energy. Others may find sex confusing, challenging to talk about, or even perhaps, their worst nightmare. Most want better ways to communicate, especially about sex; to deepen love and connection or for a path to restore trust and find pleasure. Sex can be juicy and life-affirming, I am here to help you find that.
I've worked with adults experiencing anxiety/depression, stress/life changes and transitions, and more. I'm passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ folx, non-monogamous and kinky adults, and neurodiverse clients, and I honor the process of further self-exploration and compassion. I am emphatically supportive of clients being their own empowered narrators.
I've worked with adults experiencing anxiety/depression, stress/life changes and transitions, and more. I'm passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ folx, non-monogamous and kinky adults, and neurodiverse clients, and I honor the process of further self-exploration and compassion. I am emphatically supportive of clients being their own empowered narrators.
Ellen Garfield, LMFT. Specializing in EMDR
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
IN-PERSON and virtual appts available. I offer a short, free in-person or virtual consultation. I bring an engaged, curious and direct approach with a warmth and sense of humor that clients often tell me they enjoy. I love supporting individuals through conflicts with family, friends, or work, and helping them gain deeper self-understanding while healing from trauma. With specialized training in EMDR and parts work/IFS, I offer gentle, evidence-based care for trauma recovery. My practice is neurodiversity affirming and fat positive.
IN-PERSON and virtual appts available. I offer a short, free in-person or virtual consultation. I bring an engaged, curious and direct approach with a warmth and sense of humor that clients often tell me they enjoy. I love supporting individuals through conflicts with family, friends, or work, and helping them gain deeper self-understanding while healing from trauma. With specialized training in EMDR and parts work/IFS, I offer gentle, evidence-based care for trauma recovery. My practice is neurodiversity affirming and fat positive.
Annette Angulo Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070 (Online Only)
I am an advocate of cultural diversity & have experience working with minorities, women, LGBTQ+.
Choosing the right therapist is very important. The decision to start therapy is a courageous first step towards your journey of understanding and healing. I aim to provide support to anyone that chooses to take that journey in an empathic, reflective and non-judgmental approach. I have worked with people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and life's transitions. I am also bilingual and have many years of experience providing services in Spanish. I mostly have experience in existential-humanistic psychology, psychodynamic, relational/attachment based psychotherapy and somatic psychotherapy.
I am an advocate of cultural diversity & have experience working with minorities, women, LGBTQ+.
Choosing the right therapist is very important. The decision to start therapy is a courageous first step towards your journey of understanding and healing. I aim to provide support to anyone that chooses to take that journey in an empathic, reflective and non-judgmental approach. I have worked with people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and life's transitions. I am also bilingual and have many years of experience providing services in Spanish. I mostly have experience in existential-humanistic psychology, psychodynamic, relational/attachment based psychotherapy and somatic psychotherapy.
Tanya T Wiser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
Do you wish you were more present for life, yourself, and the people you love? Would you like to be free from negative thoughts, old wounds, and past trauma? Do you feel like you are making life more complicated, conflicted, or painful than easeful, calm, and connected? Is it hard for you to feel self-compassion? Is past trauma haunting you and disrupting your ability to live the life you want? Would you like help, tools, and the support you need to be able to turn toward your difficulties with mindfulness, kindness, and clarity? Do you want to pause more, reflect and show up for life with compassion, integrity, and wisdom?
Do you wish you were more present for life, yourself, and the people you love? Would you like to be free from negative thoughts, old wounds, and past trauma? Do you feel like you are making life more complicated, conflicted, or painful than easeful, calm, and connected? Is it hard for you to feel self-compassion? Is past trauma haunting you and disrupting your ability to live the life you want? Would you like help, tools, and the support you need to be able to turn toward your difficulties with mindfulness, kindness, and clarity? Do you want to pause more, reflect and show up for life with compassion, integrity, and wisdom?
Steven Hobbs
Psychologist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Waitlist for new clients
Each meeting expands my approach to finding solutions to human problems. It's my pleasure to help people enhance their quality of life, improve stress management skills, and renew their emotional resilience, whether the challenge is one of relationship, health, or performance. I have skills in cognitive and health psychology, biofeedback, and hypnosis to aid in rapid progress toward goals. Learning how to quickly gain self-control of one's mind and body easily increases confidence and improves mood. Because I'm focused and active in my work, clients often find my approach refreshing and rewarding.
Each meeting expands my approach to finding solutions to human problems. It's my pleasure to help people enhance their quality of life, improve stress management skills, and renew their emotional resilience, whether the challenge is one of relationship, health, or performance. I have skills in cognitive and health psychology, biofeedback, and hypnosis to aid in rapid progress toward goals. Learning how to quickly gain self-control of one's mind and body easily increases confidence and improves mood. Because I'm focused and active in my work, clients often find my approach refreshing and rewarding.
My practice has a specialty of providing tailored, compassionate care for a variety of concerns, particularly anxiety, panic, and other stress and anxiety based issues. I aim to be supportive, collaborative, practical, and warm in my style. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of the healing and change that can happen in therapy. I have been trained in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), mindfulness approaches, positive psychology, and solutions based therapy and am also interested in the connections between our current experiences and their roots in our past.
My practice has a specialty of providing tailored, compassionate care for a variety of concerns, particularly anxiety, panic, and other stress and anxiety based issues. I aim to be supportive, collaborative, practical, and warm in my style. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of the healing and change that can happen in therapy. I have been trained in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), mindfulness approaches, positive psychology, and solutions based therapy and am also interested in the connections between our current experiences and their roots in our past.
I can help you transition from working at the dining room table all day, to enjoying dinner with your family.
What a time to be alive. Are you feeling isolated and alone, or like your situation is hopeless? Do you struggle to balance family and work and joy in our current world? Does your child seem to be losing their zest? If you are willing to try one more thing, I would love to be your ally. The journey has become gruesome. So is every hero’s tale, and what a tale we are living though. You are not alone!
I can help you transition from working at the dining room table all day, to enjoying dinner with your family.
What a time to be alive. Are you feeling isolated and alone, or like your situation is hopeless? Do you struggle to balance family and work and joy in our current world? Does your child seem to be losing their zest? If you are willing to try one more thing, I would love to be your ally. The journey has become gruesome. So is every hero’s tale, and what a tale we are living though. You are not alone!
Marcie Kay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, MBA, APCC
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Waitlist for new clients
I create a safe and nurturing therapeutic space for adults, couples & teens who are facing major life transitions such as college, career, divorce, or personal loss in finding a joyful and fulfilling path forward. I also provide empathetic guidance to the “sandwich generation” – women and men who are raising children while also caring for their elderly parents and struggling with anxiety and depression as they attempt to juggle it all. I help families navigate the complexities of raising children, adolescents and emerging adults in a healthy, cohesive way.
I create a safe and nurturing therapeutic space for adults, couples & teens who are facing major life transitions such as college, career, divorce, or personal loss in finding a joyful and fulfilling path forward. I also provide empathetic guidance to the “sandwich generation” – women and men who are raising children while also caring for their elderly parents and struggling with anxiety and depression as they attempt to juggle it all. I help families navigate the complexities of raising children, adolescents and emerging adults in a healthy, cohesive way.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? I'm here to help. As a dedicated therapist, I provide a warm and non-judgmental space where we can work together to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Using evidence-based approaches, we'll develop practical strategies to help you overcome challenges and live a more fulfilling life. Whether you're dealing with stress, relationship issues, or personal growth, I'm committed to supporting you every step of the way. Take the first step towards positive change and contact me today. www.claritycounselingsc.com/team
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? I'm here to help. As a dedicated therapist, I provide a warm and non-judgmental space where we can work together to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Using evidence-based approaches, we'll develop practical strategies to help you overcome challenges and live a more fulfilling life. Whether you're dealing with stress, relationship issues, or personal growth, I'm committed to supporting you every step of the way. Take the first step towards positive change and contact me today. www.claritycounselingsc.com/team
In my practice, I specialize in working with teens, transition-aged youth, adults, and families who are facing challenges, both personally and professionally.
Welcome to my page! I want to honor your courage in making it to this step in your therapy journey. At some point all of us will experience brokenness, and our past may leave its marks. I like to think of healing through therapy like Kintsugi—the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold. Instead of hiding the break, the gold honors its uniqueness and makes the pottery stronger than it was before. Like Kintsugi, our true beauty can be shown in the way we fill our cracks to help us heal. Our flaws and wounds make us who we are, and by honoring them through our restoration in therapy, we become stronger people.
In my practice, I specialize in working with teens, transition-aged youth, adults, and families who are facing challenges, both personally and professionally.
Welcome to my page! I want to honor your courage in making it to this step in your therapy journey. At some point all of us will experience brokenness, and our past may leave its marks. I like to think of healing through therapy like Kintsugi—the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold. Instead of hiding the break, the gold honors its uniqueness and makes the pottery stronger than it was before. Like Kintsugi, our true beauty can be shown in the way we fill our cracks to help us heal. Our flaws and wounds make us who we are, and by honoring them through our restoration in therapy, we become stronger people.
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Ellen Garfield, LMFT. Specializing in EMDR
Tanya T Wiser
Christina Lansdown
Individual, Couples, & Family Therapy, Neurobiology of Relationships, Stress Adaptation, Aging, Premarital Counseling, Postpartum Depression, Addiction, Trauma, Divorce Psychotherapy, Trauma Therapy, Life Transitions/ Developmental Transitions, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Anxiety and Depression disorders, Stress management, Integrative Theoretical Model.
Dr. McQuinn is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and a licensed Marital and Family therapist. Dr. Anna McQuinn has been a Tenured Professor of Notre Dame de Namur University where she has been chair of the Clinical Psychology Graduate Department since 1987. She has also been an Adjunct Faculty member at the University of San Francisco graduate Psychology program. Currently she is a Professor Emeritus at the NDNU & has a private practice in San Carlos. She believes that Psychotherapy Healing takes place within the relational model. There is a profound unconscious connection between therapist and client & a mutuality of influence.
Individual, Couples, & Family Therapy, Neurobiology of Relationships, Stress Adaptation, Aging, Premarital Counseling, Postpartum Depression, Addiction, Trauma, Divorce Psychotherapy, Trauma Therapy, Life Transitions/ Developmental Transitions, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Anxiety and Depression disorders, Stress management, Integrative Theoretical Model.
Dr. McQuinn is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and a licensed Marital and Family therapist. Dr. Anna McQuinn has been a Tenured Professor of Notre Dame de Namur University where she has been chair of the Clinical Psychology Graduate Department since 1987. She has also been an Adjunct Faculty member at the University of San Francisco graduate Psychology program. Currently she is a Professor Emeritus at the NDNU & has a private practice in San Carlos. She believes that Psychotherapy Healing takes place within the relational model. There is a profound unconscious connection between therapist and client & a mutuality of influence.
Who doesn't need therapy? Therapy is unique. It is a safe space where you can be completely who you are. Within the therapy relationship, you are able to say things that you have bottled up, you are given opportunity to identify your blind spots without judgment or shame, and you are able to attune to what you really want in life. I am a big believer in hearing your own voice, getting in touch with your values, and making decisions that align with what is important to you.
Who doesn't need therapy? Therapy is unique. It is a safe space where you can be completely who you are. Within the therapy relationship, you are able to say things that you have bottled up, you are given opportunity to identify your blind spots without judgment or shame, and you are able to attune to what you really want in life. I am a big believer in hearing your own voice, getting in touch with your values, and making decisions that align with what is important to you.
Nathaniel Pyzik
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Nathaniel is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Board-Certified Dance/Movement Therapist. Dance/movement therapy uses dance and movement to help explore and express thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Nathaniel also uses a person-centered approach and draws from a variety of techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and existential therapy. Through the collaborative and creative process of therapy, clients can learn to express themselves authentically, improve self-awareness, and create meaningful relationships with themselves and others.
Nathaniel is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Board-Certified Dance/Movement Therapist. Dance/movement therapy uses dance and movement to help explore and express thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Nathaniel also uses a person-centered approach and draws from a variety of techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and existential therapy. Through the collaborative and creative process of therapy, clients can learn to express themselves authentically, improve self-awareness, and create meaningful relationships with themselves and others.
Alex Tsai
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070 (Online Only)
Thank you for being interested in my services. Living in the bay area, life can be hectic and stressful, and we all can benefit from empathetic and empowering support. Many circumstances may have brought you to the point where depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship difficulties have made it difficult for you to find the balance or direction in life. My goal as a therapist is to support individuals, couples and families navigating through various challenges and attaining a fulfilling life. Together, we can ease your suffering, explore your concerns, and implement positive changes to meet your needs.
Thank you for being interested in my services. Living in the bay area, life can be hectic and stressful, and we all can benefit from empathetic and empowering support. Many circumstances may have brought you to the point where depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship difficulties have made it difficult for you to find the balance or direction in life. My goal as a therapist is to support individuals, couples and families navigating through various challenges and attaining a fulfilling life. Together, we can ease your suffering, explore your concerns, and implement positive changes to meet your needs.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, addiction, codependency, stress, self esteem, life transitions (relationship break up, divorce, job transition).
I have been a licensed therapist in the Bay Area for over 30 years. I provide a space that is welcoming, safe and comfortable. My style is non-judgemental, empathic and introspective. My goal is to help you learn about yourself and how to relate to others so that you can make positive changes that are lasting. I incorporate various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Short Term Solution Focused Therapy and Client Centered Therapy and Mindfulness based techniques. Therapeutic strategies are tailored to the individuals needs. I work with individuals, couples and adults.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, addiction, codependency, stress, self esteem, life transitions (relationship break up, divorce, job transition).
I have been a licensed therapist in the Bay Area for over 30 years. I provide a space that is welcoming, safe and comfortable. My style is non-judgemental, empathic and introspective. My goal is to help you learn about yourself and how to relate to others so that you can make positive changes that are lasting. I incorporate various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Short Term Solution Focused Therapy and Client Centered Therapy and Mindfulness based techniques. Therapeutic strategies are tailored to the individuals needs. I work with individuals, couples and adults.
Dr. Brittany Salerno Caulkins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070 (Online Only)
As your therapist, my goal is to provide a warm, safe space for you to step into your most authentic self while working toward your goals. I provide care for anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues, and other concerns. I also have a passion for helping individuals cope with cancer. I am trained in evidence-based treatments including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and others. I am dedicated to working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and abilities.
As your therapist, my goal is to provide a warm, safe space for you to step into your most authentic self while working toward your goals. I provide care for anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues, and other concerns. I also have a passion for helping individuals cope with cancer. I am trained in evidence-based treatments including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and others. I am dedicated to working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and abilities.
Jennifer Shao
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070 (Online Only)
Thank you for taking another step toward wellness and healing. Therapy is best facilitated by a good fit and a collaborative kind relationship, so I want to tell you in plain language about my approach. I believe in making space for pain and letting in light around shame. I'm invested in nurturing your innate creativity and natural bent towards healing and growth. I believe in weeping with you, while cherishing the moments we can laugh through the pain.
Thank you for taking another step toward wellness and healing. Therapy is best facilitated by a good fit and a collaborative kind relationship, so I want to tell you in plain language about my approach. I believe in making space for pain and letting in light around shame. I'm invested in nurturing your innate creativity and natural bent towards healing and growth. I believe in weeping with you, while cherishing the moments we can laugh through the pain.
Are you feeling stuck in the same type of relationships, arguments, or habits? When you feel stuck, it can be helpful to talk with someone to consider a fresh perspective. Previous ways of facing obstacles in your life may not be working and you might want to learn new ways to cope, or you may need extra support while going through a challenging experience. Typically, I help clients with stress, depression, worries/anxiety, life transitions, professional/sport/academic performance, and substance abuse. I enjoy working with people who are interested in self-growth and are curious about themselves and others.
Are you feeling stuck in the same type of relationships, arguments, or habits? When you feel stuck, it can be helpful to talk with someone to consider a fresh perspective. Previous ways of facing obstacles in your life may not be working and you might want to learn new ways to cope, or you may need extra support while going through a challenging experience. Typically, I help clients with stress, depression, worries/anxiety, life transitions, professional/sport/academic performance, and substance abuse. I enjoy working with people who are interested in self-growth and are curious about themselves and others.
Paul Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070 (Online Only)
I believe in your inherent wisdom and power, that repair and healing already lie within you. You may surprise yourself! In our work together, I will provide a safe, non-judgmental and supportive space for you and guide you in your process of healing and growth, while reminding you of your strengths and emphasizing self-compassion at every step. In taking a holistic approach, we can work to heal and integrate the different parts of yourself in order to move forward and change your thinking and behaviors to work for you instead of against you.
I believe in your inherent wisdom and power, that repair and healing already lie within you. You may surprise yourself! In our work together, I will provide a safe, non-judgmental and supportive space for you and guide you in your process of healing and growth, while reminding you of your strengths and emphasizing self-compassion at every step. In taking a holistic approach, we can work to heal and integrate the different parts of yourself in order to move forward and change your thinking and behaviors to work for you instead of against you.
See more therapy options for San Carlos
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for San Carlos
- Atherton
- Belmont
- Burlingame
- Foster City
- Hillsborough
- Menlo Park
- Millbrae
- Palo Alto
- Portola Valley
- Redwood City
- San Mateo
- Stanford
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.