LGBTQ+ Therapists in Grantville, San Diego, CA

Photo of Aj Lewison, ASW
Aj Lewison
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Grantville, San Diego, CA 92120
I am dedicated to life-long learning and advocacy for intersectional LGBTQIA empowerment.
I have experience working with LGBTQIA communities, Transitional-Age Youth, Neurodivergent communities, Students/Academia, and Domestic Violence situations. I'm passionate about utilizing feminist and decolonial frameworks to help clients explore solutions.
I am dedicated to life-long learning and advocacy for intersectional LGBTQIA empowerment.
I have experience working with LGBTQIA communities, Transitional-Age Youth, Neurodivergent communities, Students/Academia, and Domestic Violence situations. I'm passionate about utilizing feminist and decolonial frameworks to help clients explore solutions.
(858) 758-8696 View (858) 758-8696
Photo of Red Galura, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Red Galura
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grantville, San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
As a queer, Filipino immigrant, l understand how our social identities impact our mental health.
Understanding more of who you are and what's important to you is a great first step towards change. We will take our time to reflect on your experiences with self-worth, overthinking, and/or grief to reveal helpful elements that may have gone unnoticed in your story so far -qualities and strengths you can apply in order to take those next steps. By collaborating on solutions together, we will arrive with a clearer sense of what you need to have a richer connection with the people, values, strengths, cultures, relationships, and communities that are important to you and the life you want to live.
As a queer, Filipino immigrant, l understand how our social identities impact our mental health.
Understanding more of who you are and what's important to you is a great first step towards change. We will take our time to reflect on your experiences with self-worth, overthinking, and/or grief to reveal helpful elements that may have gone unnoticed in your story so far -qualities and strengths you can apply in order to take those next steps. By collaborating on solutions together, we will arrive with a clearer sense of what you need to have a richer connection with the people, values, strengths, cultures, relationships, and communities that are important to you and the life you want to live.
(760) 652-9680 x6 View (760) 652-9680 x6
Photo of Breanne Ferrara - Breanne Ferrara - Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breanne Ferrara - Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Grantville, San Diego, CA 92120
I am a bi-sexual queer woman and my services are queer, kink, and poly friendly.
Find clarity and get in touch with your authentic Self. I offer new perspectives, helpful tools, and can support you through growth and change. Like a trusted friend I am fiercely supportive, and can deliver hard truths when needed. If you are looking for more creativity, gratitude, playfulness and help feeling good about yourself, we might be a good fit. I often support clients with their self-esteem, LGBTQ+ identity, anxiety, depression, or trauma. Working with artists (or aspiring creatives!) is a passion of mine as well.
I am a bi-sexual queer woman and my services are queer, kink, and poly friendly.
Find clarity and get in touch with your authentic Self. I offer new perspectives, helpful tools, and can support you through growth and change. Like a trusted friend I am fiercely supportive, and can deliver hard truths when needed. If you are looking for more creativity, gratitude, playfulness and help feeling good about yourself, we might be a good fit. I often support clients with their self-esteem, LGBTQ+ identity, anxiety, depression, or trauma. Working with artists (or aspiring creatives!) is a passion of mine as well.
(562) 352-0714 View (562) 352-0714
Photo of Miranda Millican - Miranda Millican, PDA Affirming Therapist , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miranda Millican, PDA Affirming Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grantville, San Diego, CA 92105
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I love working with queer/ trans clients! If you are interested in working with me, you can reach out to me or go to LetsWanderPsychotherapy.
Welcome! I work with autistic people and those who love them! I have personal experience in this area, I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autistic/PDA) therapist who is a parent to a "neurospicy" PDA chid. PDA is pathological demand avoidance, or as I like to call it “persistent drive for autonomy". Although not yet an official diagnosis in the US, my goal is to create community and support around folks who identify themselves with these traits. I support pre-teens, teens, adults, and couples/families around autism, PDA and ADHD and better understanding and communicating their needs to others.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I love working with queer/ trans clients! If you are interested in working with me, you can reach out to me or go to LetsWanderPsychotherapy.
Welcome! I work with autistic people and those who love them! I have personal experience in this area, I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autistic/PDA) therapist who is a parent to a "neurospicy" PDA chid. PDA is pathological demand avoidance, or as I like to call it “persistent drive for autonomy". Although not yet an official diagnosis in the US, my goal is to create community and support around folks who identify themselves with these traits. I support pre-teens, teens, adults, and couples/families around autism, PDA and ADHD and better understanding and communicating their needs to others.
(619) 853-2637 View (619) 853-2637
Photo of Amaya Tueller - Amaya Tueller Eating Disorder Therapist , AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Amaya Tueller Eating Disorder Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Grantville, San Diego, CA 92104
Additionally, I am a queer therapist and I love working with LGBTQIA+ clients!.
Welcome to my page! I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with eating and body image. I work with a variety of eating issues including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, and body image issues. I work from a compassion focused and trauma informed lens, supporting my clients in better understanding themselves and building tools to help them get to their goals. I work with many issues that tend to overlap with eating difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, self harm and substance use.
Additionally, I am a queer therapist and I love working with LGBTQIA+ clients!.
Welcome to my page! I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with eating and body image. I work with a variety of eating issues including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, and body image issues. I work from a compassion focused and trauma informed lens, supporting my clients in better understanding themselves and building tools to help them get to their goals. I work with many issues that tend to overlap with eating difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, self harm and substance use.
(619) 878-3201 View (619) 878-3201
Photo of Ruth Millican - Ruth Millican, Testing Psychologist: ADHD + Autism, PsyD, Psychologist
Ruth Millican, Testing Psychologist: ADHD + Autism
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grantville, San Diego, CA 92101
Welcome to my page! I provide neurodiversity affirming testing for those wondering if they may be Autistic or ADHD, later in life. Many times, people who fall into these categories have been missed or mis-diagnosed (especially those who are assigned female at birth, or BIPOC). You may have also been missed if you are high masking or have low support needs. The testing I provide takes all of these factors into consideration to give you the most accurate understanding of your identity. Neurotypes (Autism/ADHD) are differences and not disorders, and I provide an evaluations in a way that honors the whole person.
Welcome to my page! I provide neurodiversity affirming testing for those wondering if they may be Autistic or ADHD, later in life. Many times, people who fall into these categories have been missed or mis-diagnosed (especially those who are assigned female at birth, or BIPOC). You may have also been missed if you are high masking or have low support needs. The testing I provide takes all of these factors into consideration to give you the most accurate understanding of your identity. Neurotypes (Autism/ADHD) are differences and not disorders, and I provide an evaluations in a way that honors the whole person.
(619) 745-5203 View (619) 745-5203
Photo of Megan R Fenyoe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan R Fenyoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Grantville, San Diego, CA 92124
Everyone has a unique story. Therapy is a safe place to come and deeply explore that story. We all get stuck from time to time in patterns of unhealthy thinking, behaving, and relating, and sometimes we need help changing those patterns. Therapy works in such a way that you gain insight into areas of your life and leave feeling empowered. I offer support, validation, empathy, and a safe and respectful place to share dreams, hopes, fears, and triumphs. I help clients accurately assess their challenges and identify ways they can change, capitalizing on the strengths they already have and encouraging them to build new ones.
Everyone has a unique story. Therapy is a safe place to come and deeply explore that story. We all get stuck from time to time in patterns of unhealthy thinking, behaving, and relating, and sometimes we need help changing those patterns. Therapy works in such a way that you gain insight into areas of your life and leave feeling empowered. I offer support, validation, empathy, and a safe and respectful place to share dreams, hopes, fears, and triumphs. I help clients accurately assess their challenges and identify ways they can change, capitalizing on the strengths they already have and encouraging them to build new ones.
(616) 545-8331 View (616) 545-8331
Sonia Carbonell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Grantville, San Diego, CA 92120
I love the work I do, although it involves dealing with people's painful life events and dynamics. I strongly believe in change. I am privileged because daily I witness our human capacity for healing and growth. My ideal client is the one ready to face truth, find hope and strength to change his or her life circumstances. My style, training, and professional experience emphasize understanding culture, working in the context of family and community, completing treatment goals, developing prevention plans and understanding our individual and family histories (short and long term treatment according to family or individual's needs).
I love the work I do, although it involves dealing with people's painful life events and dynamics. I strongly believe in change. I am privileged because daily I witness our human capacity for healing and growth. My ideal client is the one ready to face truth, find hope and strength to change his or her life circumstances. My style, training, and professional experience emphasize understanding culture, working in the context of family and community, completing treatment goals, developing prevention plans and understanding our individual and family histories (short and long term treatment according to family or individual's needs).
(619) 320-6296 View (619) 320-6296
Photo of Alexis Chirban, PsyD, Psychologist
Alexis Chirban
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grantville, San Diego, CA 92120  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Dr. Alexis Chirban, and I'm here to guide you through the intricate pathways of the human mind, empowering you to unlock your full potential and thrive in every aspect of your life. My passion lies in three key areas: enhancing well-being, sports psychology and perinatal mental health. Enhancing Well-being: True well-being encompasses the integration of mind, body, and spirit. I use a holistic approach to treatment that goes beyond addressing current mental health symptoms (anxiety, depression, etc.) and cultivates a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Welcome! I'm Dr. Alexis Chirban, and I'm here to guide you through the intricate pathways of the human mind, empowering you to unlock your full potential and thrive in every aspect of your life. My passion lies in three key areas: enhancing well-being, sports psychology and perinatal mental health. Enhancing Well-being: True well-being encompasses the integration of mind, body, and spirit. I use a holistic approach to treatment that goes beyond addressing current mental health symptoms (anxiety, depression, etc.) and cultivates a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment.
(508) 500-8591 View (508) 500-8591
Photo of Yu-An Chien, LCSW, MSSA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yu-An Chien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grantville, San Diego, CA 92120  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Waitlist for Nov.2023-Life is a journey full of change, and sometimes with uncertainty. During life hardships, we may want to talk to someone, get a helping hand, take a break and rest our soul to prepare us for the growth. I provide Bilingual English/Mandarin-Chinese therapy to adults and family who need a teammate. I specialize in treating trauma, mood-related disorder, cultural and identity difficulties, adjustment in life transitions, and chronic stress. I help individuals and families work through challenges and adversities, gain courage, understanding of self, and skills to grow a meaningful, purposeful life.
Waitlist for Nov.2023-Life is a journey full of change, and sometimes with uncertainty. During life hardships, we may want to talk to someone, get a helping hand, take a break and rest our soul to prepare us for the growth. I provide Bilingual English/Mandarin-Chinese therapy to adults and family who need a teammate. I specialize in treating trauma, mood-related disorder, cultural and identity difficulties, adjustment in life transitions, and chronic stress. I help individuals and families work through challenges and adversities, gain courage, understanding of self, and skills to grow a meaningful, purposeful life.
(858) 683-8726 View (858) 683-8726

Online Therapists

Photo of Linda Huey, MS, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Huey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
My hope is to help you remove whatever is keeping you from being the best version of yourself you can be. This often means looking at the things that make us feel vulnerable.. This isn't always easy considering that vulnerability is often considered a weakness. Supporting my clients to transform vulnerabilities into strengths is what I do best. And sometimes asking for help can be the hardest thing to do. It is through connection that we grow and become our authentic selves. I have been licensed since 2001. My experience includes working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, LGBTQ, and bicultural issues.
My hope is to help you remove whatever is keeping you from being the best version of yourself you can be. This often means looking at the things that make us feel vulnerable.. This isn't always easy considering that vulnerability is often considered a weakness. Supporting my clients to transform vulnerabilities into strengths is what I do best. And sometimes asking for help can be the hardest thing to do. It is through connection that we grow and become our authentic selves. I have been licensed since 2001. My experience includes working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, LGBTQ, and bicultural issues.
(619) 940-1890 View (619) 940-1890
Photo of Brittaney Latta, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittaney Latta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
I'm a queer and trauma specialist with an online practice across CA.
My ideal client is "high-functioning." Ever heard of high-functioning anxiety, depression, and PTSD? High-functioners tend to look like they have it all together from the outside, but there's a silent battle inside. Queer and Neurospicy (ADHD) people, I'm talking to you too! Masking is the norm by studying the world to act how they "should." Are you guilty of "shoulding" all over yourself? Pushing feelings deep down to keep moving forward is how they've survived life's tough stuff. Children who grew up worrying about upsetting their family or caring for everyone else become experts at suppressing emotions- hello childhood trauma!
I'm a queer and trauma specialist with an online practice across CA.
My ideal client is "high-functioning." Ever heard of high-functioning anxiety, depression, and PTSD? High-functioners tend to look like they have it all together from the outside, but there's a silent battle inside. Queer and Neurospicy (ADHD) people, I'm talking to you too! Masking is the norm by studying the world to act how they "should." Are you guilty of "shoulding" all over yourself? Pushing feelings deep down to keep moving forward is how they've survived life's tough stuff. Children who grew up worrying about upsetting their family or caring for everyone else become experts at suppressing emotions- hello childhood trauma!
(619) 391-3507 View (619) 391-3507
Photo of Jonathan Boland, LCSW, BCD, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Boland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, MPH
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130  (Online Only)
I work with all populations, but I specialize in trauma, EMDR, sexuality, and LGBTQ.
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you feel like a prisoner of your past? Have traumatic events taken over your life? You're not alone. Life doesn’t have to be this way. I can guide you through the transformation of becoming who you were meant to be, stepping fully into your joy. I'll give you the courage you need to be your true authentic self, always. I’ve helped hundreds of people just like you radically transform their lives, including those healing from trauma and people who desire a healthier sexual relationship with themselves and with others. I’m passionate about assisting others reach their full potential.
I work with all populations, but I specialize in trauma, EMDR, sexuality, and LGBTQ.
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you feel like a prisoner of your past? Have traumatic events taken over your life? You're not alone. Life doesn’t have to be this way. I can guide you through the transformation of becoming who you were meant to be, stepping fully into your joy. I'll give you the courage you need to be your true authentic self, always. I’ve helped hundreds of people just like you radically transform their lives, including those healing from trauma and people who desire a healthier sexual relationship with themselves and with others. I’m passionate about assisting others reach their full potential.
(310) 742-8451 View (310) 742-8451
Photo of Heather Marriatori, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Heather Marriatori
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
My clinical specialties include anxiety disorders, trauma, and gender/sexual identity ( LGBTQIA+).
I'm a licensed Psychologist in CA (PSY31034) and MN who believes each person has the potential to grow at any age. My ultimate focus in therapy is to not merely eliminate “symptoms” but to increase your fulfillment in life, as defined by you. This means treatment is customized to meet YOUR needs so you can meet your goals. I provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties. I'm MAP-Informed. I believe in the potential for individual and emotional growth, striving to provide a safe and warm environment in which you can explore and thrive.
My clinical specialties include anxiety disorders, trauma, and gender/sexual identity ( LGBTQIA+).
I'm a licensed Psychologist in CA (PSY31034) and MN who believes each person has the potential to grow at any age. My ultimate focus in therapy is to not merely eliminate “symptoms” but to increase your fulfillment in life, as defined by you. This means treatment is customized to meet YOUR needs so you can meet your goals. I provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties. I'm MAP-Informed. I believe in the potential for individual and emotional growth, striving to provide a safe and warm environment in which you can explore and thrive.
(619) 648-3167 View (619) 648-3167
Photo of Doug Aucoin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doug Aucoin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Taking the first steps to make changes and move towards recovery and growth is often not easy but feeling better matters. You may feel as if you’re struggling even if you’re smart, hard-working and motivated, but you can feel better. Clients come to therapy burdened with such things as anxiety/mood concerns, grief/loss issues, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+ issues, men's issues or challenges with life transitions. You want to move forward and make positive changes but are not sure where to start. Have a mature, relational, compassionate and insight- oriented therapeutic partner with you on this journey. If you contact me, I will reach out.
Taking the first steps to make changes and move towards recovery and growth is often not easy but feeling better matters. You may feel as if you’re struggling even if you’re smart, hard-working and motivated, but you can feel better. Clients come to therapy burdened with such things as anxiety/mood concerns, grief/loss issues, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+ issues, men's issues or challenges with life transitions. You want to move forward and make positive changes but are not sure where to start. Have a mature, relational, compassionate and insight- oriented therapeutic partner with you on this journey. If you contact me, I will reach out.
(619) 492-7478 View (619) 492-7478
Photo of Merissa Mathews, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Merissa Mathews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Are you experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, feeling stuck in a dark place of depression or addiction? Maybe you are experiencing challenges with feeling too needy in relationships or having difficulty connecting emotionally. Perhaps, you are wanting to be more assertive, have less stress in social situations, and have more confidence at work. Past experiences can strongly influence the way you feel about yourself and the world. Past events can be anything from experiencing emotional/physical/sexual abuse, bullying, emotional neglect, experiencing racial trauma, or not feeling accepted for being LGBTQ+.
Are you experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, feeling stuck in a dark place of depression or addiction? Maybe you are experiencing challenges with feeling too needy in relationships or having difficulty connecting emotionally. Perhaps, you are wanting to be more assertive, have less stress in social situations, and have more confidence at work. Past experiences can strongly influence the way you feel about yourself and the world. Past events can be anything from experiencing emotional/physical/sexual abuse, bullying, emotional neglect, experiencing racial trauma, or not feeling accepted for being LGBTQ+.
(951) 330-7321 View (951) 330-7321
Photo of Harry Dixon - Rainbow Connection Counseling Collective
Rainbow Connection Counseling Collective
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
We understand the unique challenges and experiences faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, and we tailor our therapy to meet your specific needs.
Rainbow Connection Counseling Collective is a group of licensed queer and/or BIPOC therapists who are passionate about helping people heal and thrive. We provide culturally responsive, LGBTQ+ affirming, and compassionate psychotherapy and counseling. We understand the unique needs of our clients and create a tailored and unique treatment that centers on the client and their history, values, culture, and identities.
We understand the unique challenges and experiences faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, and we tailor our therapy to meet your specific needs.
Rainbow Connection Counseling Collective is a group of licensed queer and/or BIPOC therapists who are passionate about helping people heal and thrive. We provide culturally responsive, LGBTQ+ affirming, and compassionate psychotherapy and counseling. We understand the unique needs of our clients and create a tailored and unique treatment that centers on the client and their history, values, culture, and identities.
(619) 404-4534 View (619) 404-4534
Photo of Shera Daroga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shera Daroga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
As a woman who is part of the LGBTQIA+ community and biracial, I value holding a safe and brave space for all clients’ intersecting identities — culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity.
Hi there! I'm Shera and my pronouns are she/her/hers. Thanks for stopping by! Have you been feeling isolated or lonely lately? Needing support, whether LGBTQIA+ , sexism, racism, ableism, or anything else that resonates with you? Let's work together to build your sense of self. Ready to make a significant shift in who you are and how you show up in life? Or questioning your purpose? Or perhaps you're struggling with all that is happening in our world these days and need an outlet to talk about it.
As a woman who is part of the LGBTQIA+ community and biracial, I value holding a safe and brave space for all clients’ intersecting identities — culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity.
Hi there! I'm Shera and my pronouns are she/her/hers. Thanks for stopping by! Have you been feeling isolated or lonely lately? Needing support, whether LGBTQIA+ , sexism, racism, ableism, or anything else that resonates with you? Let's work together to build your sense of self. Ready to make a significant shift in who you are and how you show up in life? Or questioning your purpose? Or perhaps you're struggling with all that is happening in our world these days and need an outlet to talk about it.
(310) 807-6985 View (310) 807-6985
Photo of Brainspotting Trauma Therapist Giselle Laguna, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brainspotting Trauma Therapist Giselle Laguna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
I offer personalized support crafted for the LGBTQ+ and Latine communities.
Welcome to my page! Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, pain, relationship challenges, or cultural barriers? It can be incredibly tough to find a therapist who gets you. You deserve someone who empathizes with your experiences and works with you to overcome emotional burdens. I specialize in PTSD and trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and substance misuse. By integrating Brainspotting and my background in energy healing, I’ll help you navigate and transform your challenges into a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, leading you toward a more authentic and fulfilling life.
I offer personalized support crafted for the LGBTQ+ and Latine communities.
Welcome to my page! Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, pain, relationship challenges, or cultural barriers? It can be incredibly tough to find a therapist who gets you. You deserve someone who empathizes with your experiences and works with you to overcome emotional burdens. I specialize in PTSD and trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and substance misuse. By integrating Brainspotting and my background in energy healing, I’ll help you navigate and transform your challenges into a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, leading you toward a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(619) 473-2561 View (619) 473-2561
Photo of Riley Cormack, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Riley Cormack
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120  (Online Only)
Riley works with individuals, couples, families, and groups on a wide range of issues, including relationship concerns, sexuality, depression, personal development, LGBT issues, parenting, finances, business & career and more.
Riley works with individuals, couples, families, and groups on a wide range of issues, including relationship concerns, sexuality, depression, personal development, LGBT issues, parenting, finances, business & career and more.
(619) 378-7009 View (619) 378-7009

See more therapy options for Grantville, San Diego

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.