LGBTQ+ Therapists in El Cerritos, San Diego, CA

Photo of Adrian Belmes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Adrian Belmes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115  (Online Only)
My work is LGBTQ+ affirming, relationship diverse, trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink-aware, and from a harm-reduction perspective.
If you are searching for insight and depth, you’re in the right place. My name is Adrian (he/him), and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with transgender, gender non-conforming, and queer adults and teens. My practice is centered on supporting individuals facing questions of gender exploration, sexuality, identity formation, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict.
My work is LGBTQ+ affirming, relationship diverse, trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink-aware, and from a harm-reduction perspective.
If you are searching for insight and depth, you’re in the right place. My name is Adrian (he/him), and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with transgender, gender non-conforming, and queer adults and teens. My practice is centered on supporting individuals facing questions of gender exploration, sexuality, identity formation, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict.
(760) 477-4865 View (760) 477-4865
Photo of Christina Elizabeth Ames-Cotto - Hope, Growth & Healing Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hope, Growth & Healing Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115  (Online Only)
I have 6 years of experience working with diverse populations with a multitude of different challenges; some of which include intergenerational trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence, relationship conflict, neurodiversity, LGBTQIA, and cultural identity.
Offer Telehealth Only - Life provides happiness as well as its share of challenges. I believe individuals and couples are capable of navigating life but sometimes need a little extra help and compassion. Therapy can be that place where a person can discuss, learn and work through any past or present challenges that may be getting in the way of living a happy and hopeful life.
I have 6 years of experience working with diverse populations with a multitude of different challenges; some of which include intergenerational trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence, relationship conflict, neurodiversity, LGBTQIA, and cultural identity.
Offer Telehealth Only - Life provides happiness as well as its share of challenges. I believe individuals and couples are capable of navigating life but sometimes need a little extra help and compassion. Therapy can be that place where a person can discuss, learn and work through any past or present challenges that may be getting in the way of living a happy and hopeful life.
(619) 776-3039 View (619) 776-3039
Photo of Dr. Johanna Malaret, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Dr. Johanna Malaret
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115
I love being a therapist and witnessing the transformation that can happen in therapy.
Hello/Saludos. I welcome you to the start of your therapy journey and your desire to learn about yourself, and heal. As a bilingual Latina/x therapist for over 15 years, I have had the pleasure to work with college students, adults, emerging adults, domestic violence survivors, bilingual immigrants and, LGB and transgender community members. At times, it can be difficult to navigate our lives and relationships, and we might feel sad, angry, or overwhelmed. Therapy can be one way to get the support you need to feel better, learn, grow, heal, and thrive in your life and relationships. I will help you achieve that.
I love being a therapist and witnessing the transformation that can happen in therapy.
Hello/Saludos. I welcome you to the start of your therapy journey and your desire to learn about yourself, and heal. As a bilingual Latina/x therapist for over 15 years, I have had the pleasure to work with college students, adults, emerging adults, domestic violence survivors, bilingual immigrants and, LGB and transgender community members. At times, it can be difficult to navigate our lives and relationships, and we might feel sad, angry, or overwhelmed. Therapy can be one way to get the support you need to feel better, learn, grow, heal, and thrive in your life and relationships. I will help you achieve that.
(562) 573-9897 View (562) 573-9897
Photo of Kelly Hutton - Kelly Hutton, Chronic pain and illness therapist, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Hutton, Chronic pain and illness therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115
My sub specialties include: depression/anxiety, neurodiversity (adhd/autism), dementia/neurocognitive disorders, death and dying, and trauma (I am EMDR trained) and LGBTQIA+ clients.
Welcome! Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing? Or, do you love someone or care for someone with these issues? If so, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic illness, medical trauma, neurocognitive issues (memory). Living with pain/illness comes with enormous grief, and it can be incredibly lonely. You might find you are irritable, have trouble with sleeping, can't concentrate or focus or struggle with daily tasks that used to be easy. Your relationships might be suffering as you can't show up how you used to. I am here to support you.
My sub specialties include: depression/anxiety, neurodiversity (adhd/autism), dementia/neurocognitive disorders, death and dying, and trauma (I am EMDR trained) and LGBTQIA+ clients.
Welcome! Do you have chronic pain, chronic fatigue, or chronic illness you are managing? Or, do you love someone or care for someone with these issues? If so, you are in the right place. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic illness, medical trauma, neurocognitive issues (memory). Living with pain/illness comes with enormous grief, and it can be incredibly lonely. You might find you are irritable, have trouble with sleeping, can't concentrate or focus or struggle with daily tasks that used to be easy. Your relationships might be suffering as you can't show up how you used to. I am here to support you.
(619) 853-5083 View (619) 853-5083
Photo of Kris Roudebush, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kris Roudebush
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115  (Online Only)
Greetings! I'm Kris and I love facilitating therapeutic work with individuals and couples who are looking to explore, enhance, and heal various aspects of our complicated lives. My practice addresses life challenges using a holistic perspective, blending several treatment approaches. I am a Sex Therapist, and specialize in working with: clients with sexual traumas queer, trans and nonbinary folx, those experiencing sexual difficulties (whether personally or in their relationship), and those in seasons of change. As my client, I hope you'll find a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere.
Greetings! I'm Kris and I love facilitating therapeutic work with individuals and couples who are looking to explore, enhance, and heal various aspects of our complicated lives. My practice addresses life challenges using a holistic perspective, blending several treatment approaches. I am a Sex Therapist, and specialize in working with: clients with sexual traumas queer, trans and nonbinary folx, those experiencing sexual difficulties (whether personally or in their relationship), and those in seasons of change. As my client, I hope you'll find a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere.
(805) 973-0901 View (805) 973-0901
Photo of Sue Boyd - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue Boyd - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
(619) 787-6676 View (619) 787-6676
Photo of Jade Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jade Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115
My name is Jade Miller (they/them), and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I work with individual clients across the state via telehealth. I have a client-centered approach and view therapy as an opportunity to provide a space for clients to bring their whole selves into the relationship and collaborate on addressing their needs and concerns. I have experience working with clients from various age groups and cultural backgrounds.
My name is Jade Miller (they/them), and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I work with individual clients across the state via telehealth. I have a client-centered approach and view therapy as an opportunity to provide a space for clients to bring their whole selves into the relationship and collaborate on addressing their needs and concerns. I have experience working with clients from various age groups and cultural backgrounds.
(619) 658-4568 View (619) 658-4568
Photo of Carey Sebera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carey Sebera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115
Carey Sebera, LCSW. I allow the client to lead with their hopes and desires for therapy, and get to know what drives them. Therapy is not one size fits all, and I quickly assess what may or may not be effective with each person. Seeing patterns and addressing difficult behaviors is an important part of a therapist's role, but it takes willingness and honesty from a client. We only know what you tell us! I am trained in EMDR, trauma, and addiction. I look forward to helping you achieve the life you desire.
Carey Sebera, LCSW. I allow the client to lead with their hopes and desires for therapy, and get to know what drives them. Therapy is not one size fits all, and I quickly assess what may or may not be effective with each person. Seeing patterns and addressing difficult behaviors is an important part of a therapist's role, but it takes willingness and honesty from a client. We only know what you tell us! I am trained in EMDR, trauma, and addiction. I look forward to helping you achieve the life you desire.
(619) 724-5070 View (619) 724-5070
Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, LCP, Psychologist
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115
I am Dr Icinda Siqueira Darwin, a multicultural, multi-ethnically oriented therapist who is currently licensed as a Clinical Psychologist in the state of California. I speak Spanish and Portuguese as well as English and see clients in these language backgrounds as well. I have worked extensively as a Community Psychologist, and also have a strong Forensic Psychologist background, having worked in Prisons and Paroles. I have been in Private Practice for the past few years. I typically work with all types of clients from adolescents to elderly seniors.
I am Dr Icinda Siqueira Darwin, a multicultural, multi-ethnically oriented therapist who is currently licensed as a Clinical Psychologist in the state of California. I speak Spanish and Portuguese as well as English and see clients in these language backgrounds as well. I have worked extensively as a Community Psychologist, and also have a strong Forensic Psychologist background, having worked in Prisons and Paroles. I have been in Private Practice for the past few years. I typically work with all types of clients from adolescents to elderly seniors.
(619) 453-0136 View (619) 453-0136
Photo of Brett Rhodes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brett Rhodes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Brett C Rhodes LCSW. As a psychotherapist, I'm here to help you overcome your mental, emotional, and social distress so you can live your most joyful, fulfilling, and meaningful life. I hold a Master of Social Welfare degree from UCLA and am licensed as a clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of California. I'm based in Los Angeles and provide psychotherapy to clients throughout California via video and phone sessions. I've been in clinical practice for more than 20 years in a variety of settings (psychiatric hospitals, community mental health clinics, outpatient medical mental health clinics, and private practice).
Hi, I'm Brett C Rhodes LCSW. As a psychotherapist, I'm here to help you overcome your mental, emotional, and social distress so you can live your most joyful, fulfilling, and meaningful life. I hold a Master of Social Welfare degree from UCLA and am licensed as a clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of California. I'm based in Los Angeles and provide psychotherapy to clients throughout California via video and phone sessions. I've been in clinical practice for more than 20 years in a variety of settings (psychiatric hospitals, community mental health clinics, outpatient medical mental health clinics, and private practice).
(657) 837-0201 View (657) 837-0201
Photo of Monika - Grace, PhD, MDiv, ThM, MA, Psychologist
Monika - Grace
Psychologist, PhD, MDiv, ThM, MA
Verified Verified
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115
I am Rev. Dr. Monika Maria Grace and I welcome you to my page! In our first session together, I also welcome you to my real or virtual office and I invite you to make it your own safe space. I explain that therapy is a process, a relationship, and an adventure. It's also a gift of discovery and renewal that only you can give to yourself, especially in our challenging days. In this process, my role is to listen, to support, to challenge, to guide, and to celebrate you as you are becoming more courageous to face the parts of yourself you were avoiding, more accepting of yourself and of others, and fully present in your life.
I am Rev. Dr. Monika Maria Grace and I welcome you to my page! In our first session together, I also welcome you to my real or virtual office and I invite you to make it your own safe space. I explain that therapy is a process, a relationship, and an adventure. It's also a gift of discovery and renewal that only you can give to yourself, especially in our challenging days. In this process, my role is to listen, to support, to challenge, to guide, and to celebrate you as you are becoming more courageous to face the parts of yourself you were avoiding, more accepting of yourself and of others, and fully present in your life.
(619) 430-4996 View (619) 430-4996
Photo of Sheela Shivaprasad - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheela Shivaprasad - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
(619) 787-6676 View (619) 787-6676
Photo of Mei- I Chang - Mei-I Chang, Psy.D., PsyD, Psychologist
Mei-I Chang, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115
Do you feel like you go through the motions of your life, but lack a sense of satisfaction? Are you doing things that don't help you? Do you want to feel closer to those around you? Do you want a greater sense of control? Most of us don't choose to be unhappy or live in pain, but we need help to overcome the obstacles in life. In order to make life changes, you need someone to help identify the problem, develop a plan, and implement decisions. I can help you to use your strengths to overcome your personal challenges.
Do you feel like you go through the motions of your life, but lack a sense of satisfaction? Are you doing things that don't help you? Do you want to feel closer to those around you? Do you want a greater sense of control? Most of us don't choose to be unhappy or live in pain, but we need help to overcome the obstacles in life. In order to make life changes, you need someone to help identify the problem, develop a plan, and implement decisions. I can help you to use your strengths to overcome your personal challenges.
(619) 333-8746 View (619) 333-8746
Photo of Julie Kyker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Kyker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115
COUPLES: Are you struggling with feeling close and connected with your partner or other loved ones? Do you feel like you get caught in the same cycle over little (and big) topics? Do you want to become best friends and lovers again? INDIVIDUALS: Do you want to feel more free to be yourself? More confident in your choices? Perhaps there are some emotional wounds that need healing and/or you need to feel less alone with yourself and with those you love. ALL: Do you want to love and respect the opposite sex (or your own) better? Feel safer in relationships again? It's never too late to uncover your true self and to truly live.
COUPLES: Are you struggling with feeling close and connected with your partner or other loved ones? Do you feel like you get caught in the same cycle over little (and big) topics? Do you want to become best friends and lovers again? INDIVIDUALS: Do you want to feel more free to be yourself? More confident in your choices? Perhaps there are some emotional wounds that need healing and/or you need to feel less alone with yourself and with those you love. ALL: Do you want to love and respect the opposite sex (or your own) better? Feel safer in relationships again? It's never too late to uncover your true self and to truly live.
(619) 376-1135 View (619) 376-1135
Photo of Deborah Abblitt Wagner, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah Abblitt Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115
Welcome! Finding a therapist that you connect with can be the first step towards healing and feeling better. Whether you're suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD or just feeling stuck, therapy can offer many benefits. Sometimes there are just seasons in our lives that are more difficult than others. I believe that these seasons can provide insight and growth opportunities. If together we can look at what is causing your suffering, perhaps you can learn something about yourself and start to heal. But first you must start the journey. Say yes to that part of yourself that wants to heal.
Welcome! Finding a therapist that you connect with can be the first step towards healing and feeling better. Whether you're suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD or just feeling stuck, therapy can offer many benefits. Sometimes there are just seasons in our lives that are more difficult than others. I believe that these seasons can provide insight and growth opportunities. If together we can look at what is causing your suffering, perhaps you can learn something about yourself and start to heal. But first you must start the journey. Say yes to that part of yourself that wants to heal.
(619) 870-1754 View (619) 870-1754
Photo of Clara Robles-Guerrero, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Clara Robles-Guerrero
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115  (Online Only)
Cultivating mindful awareness, embracing our needs and strengths, and connecting to the opportunities around us can help increase our sense of peace and joy in our life. I am a client-centered therapist, I see my role as that of an empowering support and an ally in this process. I specialize in individual work with adults who are dealing with a mental health condition or who seek support for parenting, relationship conflict or transition into adulthood (single life, dating, career, relocation, cultural identity).
Cultivating mindful awareness, embracing our needs and strengths, and connecting to the opportunities around us can help increase our sense of peace and joy in our life. I am a client-centered therapist, I see my role as that of an empowering support and an ally in this process. I specialize in individual work with adults who are dealing with a mental health condition or who seek support for parenting, relationship conflict or transition into adulthood (single life, dating, career, relocation, cultural identity).
(619) 648-4157 View (619) 648-4157
Photo of Kandice Casillas, LPCC
Kandice Casillas
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115
Hello, I am Kandice Casillas, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I believe that the client is the expert in their life while I am a helper in understanding and making connections with the unknown. My areas of focus are trauma, depression, anxiety, communication, boundaries, self-acceptance, and self-compassion. I use a collection of Attachment-Based, Solution Focus, Narrative, CBT, Compassion Focused, and Client Centered approaches. I like to start with the basics of understanding the client's needs, finding coping skills that work, and then diving into the real problem at hand.
Hello, I am Kandice Casillas, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I believe that the client is the expert in their life while I am a helper in understanding and making connections with the unknown. My areas of focus are trauma, depression, anxiety, communication, boundaries, self-acceptance, and self-compassion. I use a collection of Attachment-Based, Solution Focus, Narrative, CBT, Compassion Focused, and Client Centered approaches. I like to start with the basics of understanding the client's needs, finding coping skills that work, and then diving into the real problem at hand.
(858) 331-8337 View (858) 331-8337
Photo of Megan Barroso - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy, APCC, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Barroso - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appt.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appt.
(619) 787-6676 View (619) 787-6676
Photo of Brian Lieberman, PsyD, Psychologist
Brian Lieberman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115  (Online Only)
Although fear, anger, shame, guilt, and sadness often prevent us from living each day to the fullest, each one of us is uniquely resilient. From a strengths-based approach, I work collaboratively with my patients to facilitate personal growth, healing, and the establishment of more meaningful and fulfilling interpersonal relationships. I utilize EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) as a primary intervention in the resolution of trauma in individual therapy.
Although fear, anger, shame, guilt, and sadness often prevent us from living each day to the fullest, each one of us is uniquely resilient. From a strengths-based approach, I work collaboratively with my patients to facilitate personal growth, healing, and the establishment of more meaningful and fulfilling interpersonal relationships. I utilize EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) as a primary intervention in the resolution of trauma in individual therapy.
(707) 379-9427 View (707) 379-9427
Photo of Darlene Hourany, LFMT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darlene Hourany
Marriage & Family Therapist, LFMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Cerritos, San Diego, CA 92115  (Online Only)
Are you grappling with the aftermath of sexual assault? It's common to experience a range of intense and confusing emotions, from fear and anger to guilt and sadness. These feelings can deeply affect your studies, relationships, and self-image. My focus is on providing a safe, understanding space where your feelings are heard and validated. We'll work together to navigate these complex emotions, helping you regain a sense of empowerment and control over your life.
Are you grappling with the aftermath of sexual assault? It's common to experience a range of intense and confusing emotions, from fear and anger to guilt and sadness. These feelings can deeply affect your studies, relationships, and self-image. My focus is on providing a safe, understanding space where your feelings are heard and validated. We'll work together to navigate these complex emotions, helping you regain a sense of empowerment and control over your life.
(858) 786-0472 View (858) 786-0472
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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.