LGBTQ+ Therapists in Clairemont, San Diego, CA

Photo of Ezak Marquez, LPCC, Counselor
Ezak Marquez
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
(619) 329-9950 View (619) 329-9950
Photo of Victoria Grutz - Victoria Grutz Neurodivergence-Informed Therapist, AMFT
Victoria Grutz Neurodivergence-Informed Therapist
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by. My name is Victoria (she/her) and I am a neurodivergent (Autistic and ADHD) therapist who is deeply passionate about working with adult individuals, couples, polycules, and families in both the neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities. I work from a social justice-oriented lens, acknowledging systems of oppression that exist to serve some while creating barriers to well-being for many others. I particularly enjoy working with clients as they navigate experiences with late-diagnoses, anxiety, existential questions, relational and sexual difficulties, and life transitions.
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by. My name is Victoria (she/her) and I am a neurodivergent (Autistic and ADHD) therapist who is deeply passionate about working with adult individuals, couples, polycules, and families in both the neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities. I work from a social justice-oriented lens, acknowledging systems of oppression that exist to serve some while creating barriers to well-being for many others. I particularly enjoy working with clients as they navigate experiences with late-diagnoses, anxiety, existential questions, relational and sexual difficulties, and life transitions.
(858) 667-7975 View (858) 667-7975
Photo of Sara Al-Khedairy Poly+Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy, APCC, NCC
Sara Al-Khedairy Poly+Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Hi there, my name is Sara (she/her). As a child of Middle-Eastern immigrants, late-diagnosed neurodivergent (ADHD) person, polyamorous individual, and queer woman, I am honored to have the opportunity to support other members of these minoritized communities in my clinical work. I work alongside clients through a lens of social justice and anti-racism, exploring how systemic oppression and social "norms" act as barriers to wellbeing, particularly for those of us who hold multiple marginalized identities. I work with adults, including individuals, couples, polycules, and other non-traditional relationship configurations.
Hi there, my name is Sara (she/her). As a child of Middle-Eastern immigrants, late-diagnosed neurodivergent (ADHD) person, polyamorous individual, and queer woman, I am honored to have the opportunity to support other members of these minoritized communities in my clinical work. I work alongside clients through a lens of social justice and anti-racism, exploring how systemic oppression and social "norms" act as barriers to wellbeing, particularly for those of us who hold multiple marginalized identities. I work with adults, including individuals, couples, polycules, and other non-traditional relationship configurations.
(619) 486-9760 View (619) 486-9760
Photo of Cassidy Peters, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Cassidy Peters
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117  (Online Only)
I value working with LGBTQIA+ and female identifying individuals struggling with anxiety, self worth, and identity/relationship issues.
Welcome! I am so glad you're here. I enjoy working with clients who may be struggling with: Low self-esteem and self-worth; Late diagnosis of neurodivergence; Complex trauma; Identity and relational issues; Grief and life transitions. I have experience in providing therapy to teens, young adults, adults, and older adults. I believe everyone deserves to have access to affirming, personable, and affordable mental health services. I value creating a non-judgmental, warm, safe space for growth where we will work as a team to address your needs. I am a neuro-affirming, sex-positive, and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist.
I value working with LGBTQIA+ and female identifying individuals struggling with anxiety, self worth, and identity/relationship issues.
Welcome! I am so glad you're here. I enjoy working with clients who may be struggling with: Low self-esteem and self-worth; Late diagnosis of neurodivergence; Complex trauma; Identity and relational issues; Grief and life transitions. I have experience in providing therapy to teens, young adults, adults, and older adults. I believe everyone deserves to have access to affirming, personable, and affordable mental health services. I value creating a non-judgmental, warm, safe space for growth where we will work as a team to address your needs. I am a neuro-affirming, sex-positive, and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist.
(619) 486-3626 View (619) 486-3626
Photo of Ruby Estrada, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ruby Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Hello. My name is Ruby Estrada. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I approach therapy at your pace, which I can follow or match with rather quickly. My focus is centered on you and building whatever strengths you put forth whether you are aware of them or not. I help someone find a way to get through a problem or conflict, this is my approach. I am straightforward when you need me to be and gentle when the situation calls for empathy, or a balance of both. For 21 years, I have treated depression, anxiety, PTSD, LGBTQ+-related issues, ADHD, and adults finding themselves on the Autism Spectrum.
Hello. My name is Ruby Estrada. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I approach therapy at your pace, which I can follow or match with rather quickly. My focus is centered on you and building whatever strengths you put forth whether you are aware of them or not. I help someone find a way to get through a problem or conflict, this is my approach. I am straightforward when you need me to be and gentle when the situation calls for empathy, or a balance of both. For 21 years, I have treated depression, anxiety, PTSD, LGBTQ+-related issues, ADHD, and adults finding themselves on the Autism Spectrum.
(619) 586-6733 View (619) 586-6733
Photo of Anthony Weeks, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anthony Weeks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Hi there, my name is Anthony Weeks and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Oceanside, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in complex trauma, especially complex trauma in the LGBTQ+ community. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for young adults and adults who have experienced complex trauma especially individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, low self worth emotional overwhelm, loss of a sense of the future, and substance use.
Hi there, my name is Anthony Weeks and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Oceanside, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in complex trauma, especially complex trauma in the LGBTQ+ community. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for young adults and adults who have experienced complex trauma especially individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, low self worth emotional overwhelm, loss of a sense of the future, and substance use.
(619) 777-5921 View (619) 777-5921
Photo of Lisa Wasnock, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Wasnock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Hi, and welcome! I'm Lisa and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with Neurodivergent individuals and families dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma/abuse, divorce, and emotional/behavioral concerns. I have experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults, families, and adults. I support through a client centered and collaborative approach and create a safe therapeutic environment for clients to make progress on their goals. My practice is neurodivergent and LGBTQ affirming.
Hi, and welcome! I'm Lisa and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with Neurodivergent individuals and families dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma/abuse, divorce, and emotional/behavioral concerns. I have experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults, families, and adults. I support through a client centered and collaborative approach and create a safe therapeutic environment for clients to make progress on their goals. My practice is neurodivergent and LGBTQ affirming.
(442) 275-8799 View (442) 275-8799
Photo of Sonia Peterson, LCPC
Sonia Peterson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Hi there, I'm Sonia! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with over two decades of experience working with individuals who are seeking personal growth and change in their lives. I have specialized experience in working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, recovering from trauma, and/or are navigating career or other major life changes. I celebrate diversity and welcome clients from the LGBTQ community. I support individuals who are seeking recovery from serious mental illness and/or substance use disorders or have a loved one who is in or in need of recovery.
Hi there, I'm Sonia! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with over two decades of experience working with individuals who are seeking personal growth and change in their lives. I have specialized experience in working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, recovering from trauma, and/or are navigating career or other major life changes. I celebrate diversity and welcome clients from the LGBTQ community. I support individuals who are seeking recovery from serious mental illness and/or substance use disorders or have a loved one who is in or in need of recovery.
(626) 606-9956 View (626) 606-9956
Photo of Dena Webster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dena Webster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Some of the most common conditions I see include depression, anxiety, transgender issues, relationship problems, attachment issues, self-esteem, and anger problems.
My name is Dena Webster; I am a licensed clinical social worker. My goal in providing therapy is to make a difference for everyone one day at a time. I meet my clients where they are and consider their whole environment when identifying issues and resolving them. My approach to therapy is eclectic; I incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and coping skills. I realized that having someone to talk to and a safe place to say the hard things was helpful. I also noticed I have always been that friend everyone talks to process their problems.
Some of the most common conditions I see include depression, anxiety, transgender issues, relationship problems, attachment issues, self-esteem, and anger problems.
My name is Dena Webster; I am a licensed clinical social worker. My goal in providing therapy is to make a difference for everyone one day at a time. I meet my clients where they are and consider their whole environment when identifying issues and resolving them. My approach to therapy is eclectic; I incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and coping skills. I realized that having someone to talk to and a safe place to say the hard things was helpful. I also noticed I have always been that friend everyone talks to process their problems.
(707) 520-8606 View (707) 520-8606
Photo of Reina Remy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reina Remy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with LGBTQ and Military Families.
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ and Military Families.
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
(858) 215-1978 View (858) 215-1978
Photo of Kirstin G Filizetti - Kirstin Filizetti, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Kirstin Filizetti, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
I specialize in working with: Mood disorders, Anxiety & Stress, Trauma, Relational problems, Adolescent Issues, LGBT individuals, Life Transitions, Career issues, Substance abuse/dependence, Mindfulness and Personal Growth.
As a person-centered therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
I specialize in working with: Mood disorders, Anxiety & Stress, Trauma, Relational problems, Adolescent Issues, LGBT individuals, Life Transitions, Career issues, Substance abuse/dependence, Mindfulness and Personal Growth.
As a person-centered therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(619) 722-3094 View (619) 722-3094
Photo of Rachel Tarantino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Tarantino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
My therapeutic passions including working with OCD and anxiety, depression, military populations, life transitions, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, and it's okay to seek support along the way! Whether you're struggling with managing stress, coping with difficult emotions, or facing obstacles in relationships, let me help you navigate the barriers that have prevented you from living the life you imagined. I collaborate with my clients because it is important to blend my therapeutic knowledge with your personal motivations. Working together to help you achieve your goals allows for the most growth and lasting success. Remember you are not your mental health. You have a name, a personality, a history, and a story to tell.
My therapeutic passions including working with OCD and anxiety, depression, military populations, life transitions, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, and it's okay to seek support along the way! Whether you're struggling with managing stress, coping with difficult emotions, or facing obstacles in relationships, let me help you navigate the barriers that have prevented you from living the life you imagined. I collaborate with my clients because it is important to blend my therapeutic knowledge with your personal motivations. Working together to help you achieve your goals allows for the most growth and lasting success. Remember you are not your mental health. You have a name, a personality, a history, and a story to tell.
(858) 428-2072 View (858) 428-2072
Photo of Dominique Jackson, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dominique Jackson
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Finding the right therapist is an important step in your journey toward healing and growth. I offer a unique combination of deep understanding and practical solutions. My approach integrates psychodynamic theory with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, which allows us to address both immediate concerns and deeper underlying issues. I believe that while our past experiences shape us, we have the power to create meaningful change in the present.
Finding the right therapist is an important step in your journey toward healing and growth. I offer a unique combination of deep understanding and practical solutions. My approach integrates psychodynamic theory with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, which allows us to address both immediate concerns and deeper underlying issues. I believe that while our past experiences shape us, we have the power to create meaningful change in the present.
(619) 353-7980 View (619) 353-7980
Photo of Starr MacKinnon, PhD, Psychologist
Starr MacKinnon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Do you have difficulty keeping up with the demands of life? Do you feel disconnected or down? Does it seem like your mind is often running away with worry? Are you going through a change and could use some guidance? You're not alone and I'd like to help! You and I both know that over time, life can get away from us. I can help you find new ways of living and being that reduce stress and struggle, while enhancing meaning, purpose, and enjoyment of life.
Do you have difficulty keeping up with the demands of life? Do you feel disconnected or down? Does it seem like your mind is often running away with worry? Are you going through a change and could use some guidance? You're not alone and I'd like to help! You and I both know that over time, life can get away from us. I can help you find new ways of living and being that reduce stress and struggle, while enhancing meaning, purpose, and enjoyment of life.
(619) 916-4128 View (619) 916-4128
Photo of Rita Diaz, LCPC
Rita Diaz
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Hi, my name is Rita Diaz and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. In your sessions, I would like for you to speak freely, share your experiences, and gain an understanding of yourself. I believe I can help guide you through your concerns to meet your goals. I have experience working with children, teens, and young adults, but am open to working with older adults as well. The majority of my clients have had history of trauma, court dependency, or co-dependency concerns. I believe you are your own expert of yourself.
Hi, my name is Rita Diaz and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. In your sessions, I would like for you to speak freely, share your experiences, and gain an understanding of yourself. I believe I can help guide you through your concerns to meet your goals. I have experience working with children, teens, and young adults, but am open to working with older adults as well. The majority of my clients have had history of trauma, court dependency, or co-dependency concerns. I believe you are your own expert of yourself.
(619) 655-3657 View (619) 655-3657
Photo of Neda Khodaparast, PsyD, QME, Psychologist
Neda Khodaparast
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
"In all chaos there is a cosmos, in all disorder a secret order.” I truly believe that people are not what happened to them. They are what they choose to become. Therapy is a safe and private space in which you are able to deepen your understanding of your capabilities and choices you can make in life. Through providing positive and feedbacks, I will assist you to acquire a healthy set of coping skills and gain more insight about your psychology. This insight will eventually “unstuck” you from repeating unhealthy behaviors by breaking old patterns and developing new ones.
"In all chaos there is a cosmos, in all disorder a secret order.” I truly believe that people are not what happened to them. They are what they choose to become. Therapy is a safe and private space in which you are able to deepen your understanding of your capabilities and choices you can make in life. Through providing positive and feedbacks, I will assist you to acquire a healthy set of coping skills and gain more insight about your psychology. This insight will eventually “unstuck” you from repeating unhealthy behaviors by breaking old patterns and developing new ones.
(860) 615-9919 View (860) 615-9919
Photo of Lindsay Lien: Hope Therapy Group, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Lindsay Lien: Hope Therapy Group
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who enjoys working with adults, adolescents, families, and couples. I believe that a strong, collaborative, trusting relationship is at the heart of therapy. I draw upon a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to fit your needs and goals. I have experience working with issues related to anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, adjustment, grief and loss, trauma, motivation, relationships, and identity.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who enjoys working with adults, adolescents, families, and couples. I believe that a strong, collaborative, trusting relationship is at the heart of therapy. I draw upon a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to fit your needs and goals. I have experience working with issues related to anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, adjustment, grief and loss, trauma, motivation, relationships, and identity.
(619) 215-5321 View (619) 215-5321
Photo of Jeannette M. Gilmore, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeannette M. Gilmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing emotional and physical problems that seem unmanageable? Life can be challenging when you've endured mental and physical stressors. Know that you are not alone. Together we will create the step-by-step tools needed to heal yourself and take back your life. My holistic nontraditional treatment will get you there. And it works faster than conventional counseling. Without judgment and through empathy you can process life events that are overwhelming. In our journey together my goal is that you will learn how to develop a more peaceful and fulfilling life and create a deeper connection to your genuine self.
Are you experiencing emotional and physical problems that seem unmanageable? Life can be challenging when you've endured mental and physical stressors. Know that you are not alone. Together we will create the step-by-step tools needed to heal yourself and take back your life. My holistic nontraditional treatment will get you there. And it works faster than conventional counseling. Without judgment and through empathy you can process life events that are overwhelming. In our journey together my goal is that you will learn how to develop a more peaceful and fulfilling life and create a deeper connection to your genuine self.
(858) 408-6549 View (858) 408-6549
Photo of David Fulton, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Fulton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
Are you struggling with anxiety or past trauma, especially if previous therapies haven't led to the progress you hoped for? I specialize in deep therapeutic work that uncovers unconscious patterns and narratives shaping our lives. This approach not only reveals hidden dynamics but also fosters pathways for healing and self-awareness. If you're ready for a transformative journey that deeply explores your psyche, I offer dedicated guidance to help you achieve profound change, understand your true self, and equip you with tools to reclaim control, make conscious choices, and live a life aligned with your deepest values.
Are you struggling with anxiety or past trauma, especially if previous therapies haven't led to the progress you hoped for? I specialize in deep therapeutic work that uncovers unconscious patterns and narratives shaping our lives. This approach not only reveals hidden dynamics but also fosters pathways for healing and self-awareness. If you're ready for a transformative journey that deeply explores your psyche, I offer dedicated guidance to help you achieve profound change, understand your true self, and equip you with tools to reclaim control, make conscious choices, and live a life aligned with your deepest values.
(619) 486-5755 View (619) 486-5755
Photo of Cindy Way - Cindy Way: Hope Therapy Group, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cindy Way: Hope Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont, San Diego, CA 92117
My specialty is working with individuals, couples, and families that are impacted by their relationship/marital issues, divorce, blended families, parenting/co-parenting, different- abilities (disability), and chronic pain/illness. Additionally, I apply a trauma-informed lens toward life experiences supporting PTSD/C-PTSD, Generational/Intergenerational Trauma, Cultural/Racial Trauma, and Military-related trauma.
My specialty is working with individuals, couples, and families that are impacted by their relationship/marital issues, divorce, blended families, parenting/co-parenting, different- abilities (disability), and chronic pain/illness. Additionally, I apply a trauma-informed lens toward life experiences supporting PTSD/C-PTSD, Generational/Intergenerational Trauma, Cultural/Racial Trauma, and Military-related trauma.
(858) 997-0934 View (858) 997-0934
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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.