LGBTQ+ Therapists in North City, San Diego, CA

Photo of Amy Salgado, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Salgado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
North City, San Diego, CA 92130  (Online Only)
I am honored to provide reparative experiences to those who have been negatively affected by therapy and seek to provide a truly transformational experience for first-time and veteran therapy goers.
Your story deeply matters to me. I provide relational, integrative, and sex-positive therapy to queer and BIPOC clients. My clients are looking to make their minds and bodies a safe home and are often the first in their families to have the courage to disrupt limiting beliefs and cycles. They seek to challenge expectations as they dare to redefine themselves wholeheartedly. Together, we will make space to explore the impact of generational and personal traumas, navigate the complexities and beauty of intersecting identities, and create meaningful, lasting, and accessible healing practices. Let's connect!
I am honored to provide reparative experiences to those who have been negatively affected by therapy and seek to provide a truly transformational experience for first-time and veteran therapy goers.
Your story deeply matters to me. I provide relational, integrative, and sex-positive therapy to queer and BIPOC clients. My clients are looking to make their minds and bodies a safe home and are often the first in their families to have the courage to disrupt limiting beliefs and cycles. They seek to challenge expectations as they dare to redefine themselves wholeheartedly. Together, we will make space to explore the impact of generational and personal traumas, navigate the complexities and beauty of intersecting identities, and create meaningful, lasting, and accessible healing practices. Let's connect!
(323) 645-1443 View (323) 645-1443
Photo of Sarah A Zucker, PsyD, Psychologist
Sarah A Zucker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North City, San Diego, CA 92130
) •You will be supported if you are LGBTQ+.
Hey! You’ve likely arrived here because you’ve been in a dark place and might be ready for a change. You’re tired of carrying around the burden of your trauma, anxiety, or the weight of your substance use or secret addiction. Or you’re concerned about a loved one’s unhealthy behaviors. Maybe you feel ashamed and alone but the fear of being judged is finally being outweighed by the possibility that things could be better. Life is really hard, but we can do hard things with support. How I can help: •We can collaborate if you have ever had substance use concerns or addictive behaviors - past or present, in recovery or ongoing.
) •You will be supported if you are LGBTQ+.
Hey! You’ve likely arrived here because you’ve been in a dark place and might be ready for a change. You’re tired of carrying around the burden of your trauma, anxiety, or the weight of your substance use or secret addiction. Or you’re concerned about a loved one’s unhealthy behaviors. Maybe you feel ashamed and alone but the fear of being judged is finally being outweighed by the possibility that things could be better. Life is really hard, but we can do hard things with support. How I can help: •We can collaborate if you have ever had substance use concerns or addictive behaviors - past or present, in recovery or ongoing.
(858) 465-4471 View (858) 465-4471
Photo of Kristin Kwiatkowski, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristin Kwiatkowski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North City, San Diego, CA 92130
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, Kristin is a seasoned professional who can help you navigate life's challenges. Her 5 years of clinical experience as a marriage and family therapist make her well equipped to address a variety of issues, including Trauma and Complex Trauma, PTSD, Depression, LGBTQ+ , Addiction,and Anxiety issues. She is passionate about working with those who strive to overcome life’s obstacles such as; Loss, Fear, Relationship Struggles, Isolation, self Doubt and Change.
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, Kristin is a seasoned professional who can help you navigate life's challenges. Her 5 years of clinical experience as a marriage and family therapist make her well equipped to address a variety of issues, including Trauma and Complex Trauma, PTSD, Depression, LGBTQ+ , Addiction,and Anxiety issues. She is passionate about working with those who strive to overcome life’s obstacles such as; Loss, Fear, Relationship Struggles, Isolation, self Doubt and Change.
(858) 762-9572 View (858) 762-9572
Photo of Jaclyn D. Deilgat, PhD, Psychologist
Jaclyn D. Deilgat
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
North City, San Diego, CA 92130
My therapeutic approach is non-judgmental, empathetic, understanding, compassionate, and accepting. I provide therapy that does not shame you, but inspires you to grow into the person you want to become. I specialize in providing therapy for people who want to improve their quality of life, decrease distress, enhance relationships, resolve family conflict, better cope with life, and break free from unhealthy patterns. I've worked with clients who struggle with: depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, relationship problems, & unresolved conflict from childhood. I also provide affirmative therapy for the LGBTQIA+ community.
My therapeutic approach is non-judgmental, empathetic, understanding, compassionate, and accepting. I provide therapy that does not shame you, but inspires you to grow into the person you want to become. I specialize in providing therapy for people who want to improve their quality of life, decrease distress, enhance relationships, resolve family conflict, better cope with life, and break free from unhealthy patterns. I've worked with clients who struggle with: depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, relationship problems, & unresolved conflict from childhood. I also provide affirmative therapy for the LGBTQIA+ community.
(619) 375-0529 View (619) 375-0529
Photo of Bridget Suzanne Kermorris, JD, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bridget Suzanne Kermorris
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, JD, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North City, San Diego, CA 92130
Searching for support during a difficult time and/or a season of change can be a big deal. In my therapeutic relationships, I walk alongside clients as they work to transform their most important relationships with loved ones and with themselves. I have a heart for and offer affirming care to all people. I am committed to learning and growing in my care for people in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities. My specialities are journeying with parents as they reconnect with and support their teens, treating complex PTSD, and supporting neurodivergent individuals as well as their partners and families.
Searching for support during a difficult time and/or a season of change can be a big deal. In my therapeutic relationships, I walk alongside clients as they work to transform their most important relationships with loved ones and with themselves. I have a heart for and offer affirming care to all people. I am committed to learning and growing in my care for people in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities. My specialities are journeying with parents as they reconnect with and support their teens, treating complex PTSD, and supporting neurodivergent individuals as well as their partners and families.
(760) 263-6048 View (760) 263-6048
Photo of Jennifer Wren, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Wren
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
North City, San Diego, CA 92130
Are you looking for a supportive space to learn from the past, consider the present, and determine the possibilities for a better future? If you’re looking to explore various aspects of yourself with a candid spirit, I can help you orient toward joy, harmony, and well-being in your life and relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and proud ally of the LGBTQ community. I offer a non-judgmental space for you to open your mind and heart toward a more hopeful, optimistic, and happier future. In granting yourself that space, you gift yourself freedom to love—to love yourself—and to express, give and receive love in relationships.
Are you looking for a supportive space to learn from the past, consider the present, and determine the possibilities for a better future? If you’re looking to explore various aspects of yourself with a candid spirit, I can help you orient toward joy, harmony, and well-being in your life and relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and proud ally of the LGBTQ community. I offer a non-judgmental space for you to open your mind and heart toward a more hopeful, optimistic, and happier future. In granting yourself that space, you gift yourself freedom to love—to love yourself—and to express, give and receive love in relationships.
(619) 350-8551 View (619) 350-8551
Photo of Erin Miggantz - Adult Autism Assessment, PhD, Psychologist
Erin Miggantz - Adult Autism Assessment
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
North City, San Diego, CA 92130  (Online Only)
I conduct strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming (and LGBTQIA+ affirming) collaborative and therapeutic assessments aimed at providing my clients with comprehensive information that can help them to build a life that best suits them!.
Our understanding of how autism presents in adults has increased exponentially in the last few years. We now know that autism can look very different in adults than it does in children, especially when someone has spent their lifetime trying to hide (or mask) their "non-neurotypical" traits. My speciality is in identifying autism among highly-masked adults who have been undiagnosed, or more commonly, misdiagnosed. I believe that correct diagnosis, no matter how late in life, can be meaningful, validating, and useful in planning for the future.
I conduct strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming (and LGBTQIA+ affirming) collaborative and therapeutic assessments aimed at providing my clients with comprehensive information that can help them to build a life that best suits them!.
Our understanding of how autism presents in adults has increased exponentially in the last few years. We now know that autism can look very different in adults than it does in children, especially when someone has spent their lifetime trying to hide (or mask) their "non-neurotypical" traits. My speciality is in identifying autism among highly-masked adults who have been undiagnosed, or more commonly, misdiagnosed. I believe that correct diagnosis, no matter how late in life, can be meaningful, validating, and useful in planning for the future.
(858) 377-6022 View (858) 377-6022
Photo of Gaelle Carey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gaelle Carey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
North City, San Diego, CA 92130  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Gaëlle Carey and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with all types of people, from CEOs to stay-at-home parents. My ideal client is anyone who is interested in empowering their life. I am a direct person and like to get right down to business, but I also genuinely care about my clients' success. I have experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anger management, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Welcome! My name is Gaëlle Carey and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with all types of people, from CEOs to stay-at-home parents. My ideal client is anyone who is interested in empowering their life. I am a direct person and like to get right down to business, but I also genuinely care about my clients' success. I have experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anger management, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
(619) 329-8438 View (619) 329-8438
Photo of Dr. Julie Manoogian, PsyD, MSW, Psychologist
Dr. Julie Manoogian
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
North City, San Diego, CA 92130
I specialize in individual and couples psychotherapy and I also provide clinical hypnosis. EMDR is offered by other providers in my group. Please visit Lajollapsychologists.com. I have over 18 years of experience in the mental health field and I have worked in multiple settings, including college counseling centers and an inpatient residential treatment facility. I am particularly interested in the treatment of trauma, depression, relationship challenges, postpartum health, infertility, emotion regulation, anxiety, stress, and depression. We specialize in working with marginalized populations and our group is LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I specialize in individual and couples psychotherapy and I also provide clinical hypnosis. EMDR is offered by other providers in my group. Please visit Lajollapsychologists.com. I have over 18 years of experience in the mental health field and I have worked in multiple settings, including college counseling centers and an inpatient residential treatment facility. I am particularly interested in the treatment of trauma, depression, relationship challenges, postpartum health, infertility, emotion regulation, anxiety, stress, and depression. We specialize in working with marginalized populations and our group is LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(858) 285-4353 View (858) 285-4353
Photo of Jacob Wilen, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jacob Wilen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
North City, San Diego, CA 92130  (Online Only)
Life would be so much easier if we only had to handle one problem at a time. Instead, we are often faced with a mix of stressful situations, emotional rollercoasters, and family conflicts—sometimes all in a single day. For those with the added complexity of a mental health disorder, it can quickly become overwhelming. Psychotherapy can help you gain insight, manage symptoms, find solutions, and create a vibrant, balanced, and meaningful life.
Life would be so much easier if we only had to handle one problem at a time. Instead, we are often faced with a mix of stressful situations, emotional rollercoasters, and family conflicts—sometimes all in a single day. For those with the added complexity of a mental health disorder, it can quickly become overwhelming. Psychotherapy can help you gain insight, manage symptoms, find solutions, and create a vibrant, balanced, and meaningful life.
(310) 987-4282 View (310) 987-4282
Photo of Michael Meister, LPC, LPCC
Michael Meister
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
North City, San Diego, CA 92130  (Online Only)
My warm and collaborative demeanor cultivates a therapeutic partnership that promotes self-discovery and personal transformation.
Accepting new clients. I am a highly skilled Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with a strong academic foundation and over 13 years of professional experience. Licensed in CA, AZ, and OK. With a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology, I bring a deep understanding of human behavior and emotions to my practice. My therapeutic approach is characterized by my commitment to working from a relational lens, fostering genuine connections to facilitate healing and growth. As a practitioner with over a decade of experience, I have honed my expertise in helping individuals navigate life's challenges and complexities.
My warm and collaborative demeanor cultivates a therapeutic partnership that promotes self-discovery and personal transformation.
Accepting new clients. I am a highly skilled Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with a strong academic foundation and over 13 years of professional experience. Licensed in CA, AZ, and OK. With a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology, I bring a deep understanding of human behavior and emotions to my practice. My therapeutic approach is characterized by my commitment to working from a relational lens, fostering genuine connections to facilitate healing and growth. As a practitioner with over a decade of experience, I have honed my expertise in helping individuals navigate life's challenges and complexities.
(858) 758-7561 View (858) 758-7561
Photo of Gregory Buttner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gregory Buttner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North City, San Diego, CA 92130  (Online Only)
Experience the compassionate care and expertise of Dr. Greg Buttner, a leading therapist specializing in integrative psychotherapy. Allow him to guide you through the healing process, addressing trauma, family system issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders. With his support, you can find the strength to overcome challenges and live a fulfilling and connected life.
Experience the compassionate care and expertise of Dr. Greg Buttner, a leading therapist specializing in integrative psychotherapy. Allow him to guide you through the healing process, addressing trauma, family system issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders. With his support, you can find the strength to overcome challenges and live a fulfilling and connected life.
(760) 624-3411 View (760) 624-3411
Photo of Anna Solomon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North City, San Diego, CA 92130
My passion is in helping my clients see themselves as innately whole, healthy, and resilient. I work in partnership with my clients to identify their goals and together we collaborate to work toward these goals. I am an EMDR certified therapist and I provide IFS-informed EMDR therapy in addition to other talk therapy modalities.
My passion is in helping my clients see themselves as innately whole, healthy, and resilient. I work in partnership with my clients to identify their goals and together we collaborate to work toward these goals. I am an EMDR certified therapist and I provide IFS-informed EMDR therapy in addition to other talk therapy modalities.
(424) 253-5506 View (424) 253-5506
Photo of Nazy Khorsandi, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nazy Khorsandi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North City, San Diego, CA 92130
I enjoy showing you your own divine potential as fully loving and successful beings. I will gently but directly encourage you to identify themes and patterns in your life that are no longer working for you. By gaining self awareness you can explore new ways of being, thinking, and behaving. You’ll be able to reach and maintain the fulfilling life that you want and deserve to have. I will help you make peace with your past, gain insight, cultivate your inner strength, and overcome your challenges in dealing with daily stressors, childhood traumas, relationship issues, and emotional exhaustion.
I enjoy showing you your own divine potential as fully loving and successful beings. I will gently but directly encourage you to identify themes and patterns in your life that are no longer working for you. By gaining self awareness you can explore new ways of being, thinking, and behaving. You’ll be able to reach and maintain the fulfilling life that you want and deserve to have. I will help you make peace with your past, gain insight, cultivate your inner strength, and overcome your challenges in dealing with daily stressors, childhood traumas, relationship issues, and emotional exhaustion.
(323) 310-2393 View (323) 310-2393
Photo of Jessica Blair Sturgill - Mental Health First Counseling Services, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mental Health First Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North City, San Diego, CA 92130
Jessica Sturgill, LMFT is a Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, I believe in creating goals and assisting my clients to meet those goals. We address negative thoughts, address negative beliefs all while addressing life's complicated ups and downs . My clients range age 11 to 65 and are seeking help with anxiety, depression, addiction and adjustments in their life (children, divorce, illness). We work together as I help guide my clients of all ages in creating the healthy and happy life they envision for themselves.
Jessica Sturgill, LMFT is a Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, I believe in creating goals and assisting my clients to meet those goals. We address negative thoughts, address negative beliefs all while addressing life's complicated ups and downs . My clients range age 11 to 65 and are seeking help with anxiety, depression, addiction and adjustments in their life (children, divorce, illness). We work together as I help guide my clients of all ages in creating the healthy and happy life they envision for themselves.
(858) 358-7587 View (858) 358-7587
Photo of Explore Counseling Group - Explore Counseling Group (nee Caldwell-Clark), MA, LMFT, AMFT, APC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Explore Counseling Group (nee Caldwell-Clark)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AMFT, APC
Verified Verified
North City, San Diego, CA 92130
New name - same quality counseling! A nonprofit established by Ben Caldwell and Aimee Clark in 2011, we have a team of compassionate and skilled associates ready to provide high-quality, affordable services to inform, improve, restore, and strengthen both the individual sense of self, and human relationships. Our focus includes, but is not limited to: Couples, Families, Parenting, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Problems, Grief and Hospice, High Conflict Relationships, and Behavior Problems. Our counselors are trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Trauma Therapy (EMDR), and more.
New name - same quality counseling! A nonprofit established by Ben Caldwell and Aimee Clark in 2011, we have a team of compassionate and skilled associates ready to provide high-quality, affordable services to inform, improve, restore, and strengthen both the individual sense of self, and human relationships. Our focus includes, but is not limited to: Couples, Families, Parenting, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Problems, Grief and Hospice, High Conflict Relationships, and Behavior Problems. Our counselors are trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Trauma Therapy (EMDR), and more.
(858) 368-4059 View (858) 368-4059
Photo of Laura J Proctor, PhD, Psychologist
Laura J Proctor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
North City, San Diego, CA 92130  (Online Only)
Therapy during those times can be deeply healing and transformative.
I work with clients in a collaborative relationship to create lasting positive change. Together we can alleviate your emotional suffering, identify your strengths, change old patterns, increase self-compassion, formulate goals, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, navigate transitions, and make life meaningful and fulfilling. Wherever you are in your process will be our starting point. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, family of origin issues, relationships, academic/work challenges, identity, culture, grief and loss, and life transitions. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and communities.
Therapy during those times can be deeply healing and transformative.
I work with clients in a collaborative relationship to create lasting positive change. Together we can alleviate your emotional suffering, identify your strengths, change old patterns, increase self-compassion, formulate goals, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, navigate transitions, and make life meaningful and fulfilling. Wherever you are in your process will be our starting point. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, family of origin issues, relationships, academic/work challenges, identity, culture, grief and loss, and life transitions. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and communities.
(858) 304-7640 View (858) 304-7640
Photo of Christy Wise, PsyD, Coach
Christy Wise
PsyD, Coach
Verified Verified
North City, San Diego, CA 92130
Transformational Coach, Trainer & Key Note Speaker.
Dr. Christy Wise has conducted over 20 years of breakthrough transformational counseling. While on hiatus from clinical practice, today Dr. Wise is most recognized for her work as a highly sought out Coach & Key Note Speaker. As an experienced helping professional, my approach to coaching is both compassionate & goal directed. I work with clients with various goals, I am extensively experienced with couples & individuals working with sex & intimacy goals. Known as a contemporary voice for the power of relationships, resilience & the ability to rebound after trauma.
Transformational Coach, Trainer & Key Note Speaker.
Dr. Christy Wise has conducted over 20 years of breakthrough transformational counseling. While on hiatus from clinical practice, today Dr. Wise is most recognized for her work as a highly sought out Coach & Key Note Speaker. As an experienced helping professional, my approach to coaching is both compassionate & goal directed. I work with clients with various goals, I am extensively experienced with couples & individuals working with sex & intimacy goals. Known as a contemporary voice for the power of relationships, resilience & the ability to rebound after trauma.
(858) 952-0862 View (858) 952-0862
Photo of Debra L Jedeikin, PsyD, MA , LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra L Jedeikin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MA , LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
North City, San Diego, CA 92130
Debra Jedeikin is a psychotherapist with 24 years of experience across two continents.HELPING FAMILIES HEAL: My goal is to heal families through respectful and compassionate communication. My "Changing Family" program helps children adjust in cases of divorce,blended families and bereavement. I specialize in treating children of all ages. INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOTHERAPY: I work collaboratively with you to remove emotional obstacles, make peace with yourself and enrich your Life in every way! Your time is now ! COUPLES: I work with couples to develop conflict resolution skills, respectful communication, physical / emotional intimacy. My goal for you is connection, love and laughter.
Debra Jedeikin is a psychotherapist with 24 years of experience across two continents.HELPING FAMILIES HEAL: My goal is to heal families through respectful and compassionate communication. My "Changing Family" program helps children adjust in cases of divorce,blended families and bereavement. I specialize in treating children of all ages. INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOTHERAPY: I work collaboratively with you to remove emotional obstacles, make peace with yourself and enrich your Life in every way! Your time is now ! COUPLES: I work with couples to develop conflict resolution skills, respectful communication, physical / emotional intimacy. My goal for you is connection, love and laughter.
(858) 367-0900 View (858) 367-0900
Photo of Penelope Young Andrade, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Penelope Young Andrade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North City, San Diego, CA 92130
Transformation happens when clients are comfortable in their skins in a warm and respectful relationship.
My ideal client is a person who doesn't want to give up on him/her/themself and the dream of a fulfilling life. I support clients to know the truth: they deserve love and success no matter what wounds they've experienced. I help people uncover the deep wisdom and restorative potential living within them. I do this gently in the present moment by reconnecting clients with healing, embodied emotional experience in safe connection with me. This gets vitality and intuition moving again I support people to take responsibility (but not blame) in any life/work/relationship upset because this is what works!
Transformation happens when clients are comfortable in their skins in a warm and respectful relationship.
My ideal client is a person who doesn't want to give up on him/her/themself and the dream of a fulfilling life. I support clients to know the truth: they deserve love and success no matter what wounds they've experienced. I help people uncover the deep wisdom and restorative potential living within them. I do this gently in the present moment by reconnecting clients with healing, embodied emotional experience in safe connection with me. This gets vitality and intuition moving again I support people to take responsibility (but not blame) in any life/work/relationship upset because this is what works!
(858) 799-0079 View (858) 799-0079
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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.