LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in San Diego, CA
Nathan Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
I specialize in working with people within the BIPOC and LGBTQ communities and all are welcome here.
Do you feel stuck in your patterns of thought and behavior? Do you feel like there must be a better way to live as an individual and in relationships? Do you struggle to live with the impacts of depression, anxiety, or ADHD? You are not alone and I'm here to help. So much of how you experience yourself, others, and the world can be understood through experiences you had within your family, school, and culture. Understanding these influences and the ideas that they made reality, can free up space for you to choose your own experiences and relationships.
I specialize in working with people within the BIPOC and LGBTQ communities and all are welcome here.
Do you feel stuck in your patterns of thought and behavior? Do you feel like there must be a better way to live as an individual and in relationships? Do you struggle to live with the impacts of depression, anxiety, or ADHD? You are not alone and I'm here to help. So much of how you experience yourself, others, and the world can be understood through experiences you had within your family, school, and culture. Understanding these influences and the ideas that they made reality, can free up space for you to choose your own experiences and relationships.
I look forward to working with folks ready for transformation and healing! Please email me to schedule a free phone consultation.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
I look forward to working with folks ready for transformation and healing! Please email me to schedule a free phone consultation.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
![Photo of Pei-Ying [Ann] Lo, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd999abf-95fa-4c1e-9e8d-8e0b5f8debc9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pei-Ying [Ann] Lo
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
I understand the cultural barriers and challenges of being an immigrant, a woman, and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, both professionally and personally.
Hello there, my name is Pei-Ying Lo (羅佩英), and I also go by Ann. I am a Post-Doctoral Fellow and Psychological Associate who is currently working towards full licensure under the supervision of Dr. Shawnee Brew. With my background and training, I bring a distinctive viewpoint on the therapeutic process and the external pressures we encounter. Let’s collaborate to discover the next steps for whatever you present, finding a balance between the challenges and the joys.
I understand the cultural barriers and challenges of being an immigrant, a woman, and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, both professionally and personally.
Hello there, my name is Pei-Ying Lo (羅佩英), and I also go by Ann. I am a Post-Doctoral Fellow and Psychological Associate who is currently working towards full licensure under the supervision of Dr. Shawnee Brew. With my background and training, I bring a distinctive viewpoint on the therapeutic process and the external pressures we encounter. Let’s collaborate to discover the next steps for whatever you present, finding a balance between the challenges and the joys.
Maegan K A Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
I have a particular interest in serving my community and meeting with people who identify as LGBTQIA+ and partnering with individuals who identify as transgender as an advocate within the medical and mental health systems.
Welcome! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing narrative therapy in California. I am committed to providing anti-racist, gender-affirming, respectful care to each person with whom I meet; and to help each person discover and remember the abilities they have, which can help them move through life despite the obstacles they may encounter. I am passionate about standing alongside the individuals, couples, and families I collaborate with against the problems that show up in their lives.
I have a particular interest in serving my community and meeting with people who identify as LGBTQIA+ and partnering with individuals who identify as transgender as an advocate within the medical and mental health systems.
Welcome! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing narrative therapy in California. I am committed to providing anti-racist, gender-affirming, respectful care to each person with whom I meet; and to help each person discover and remember the abilities they have, which can help them move through life despite the obstacles they may encounter. I am passionate about standing alongside the individuals, couples, and families I collaborate with against the problems that show up in their lives.
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.
Are you looking for a therapist who understands your unique experiences as a BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+ person? Do you want to work with someone who is compassionate, affirming, and culturally responsive? Are you looking for a clinician with shared lived experiences? If so, then you're in the right place. 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 challenges and experiences faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, and we tailor our therapy to meet your specific needs.
Are you looking for a therapist who understands your unique experiences as a BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+ person? Do you want to work with someone who is compassionate, affirming, and culturally responsive? Are you looking for a clinician with shared lived experiences? If so, then you're in the right place. 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.
Hilario (Rio) M.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is a space that is both engaging and supportive. I aim to create a welcoming environment where you can access therapy as a means to enrich your life. I come from a unique cultural background, being half Salvadorian and half Filipino, a first-generation child of immigrant parents, and part of the LGBTQ+ community. These diverse cultural influences have significantly shaped my personal identity and professional development. This journey of straddling multiple cultures has taught me the richness of our intersectional identities and how we all engage with the world through a complex web of lived experiences.
Therapy is a space that is both engaging and supportive. I aim to create a welcoming environment where you can access therapy as a means to enrich your life. I come from a unique cultural background, being half Salvadorian and half Filipino, a first-generation child of immigrant parents, and part of the LGBTQ+ community. These diverse cultural influences have significantly shaped my personal identity and professional development. This journey of straddling multiple cultures has taught me the richness of our intersectional identities and how we all engage with the world through a complex web of lived experiences.
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.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC, particularly Latine.
Welcome! As a Bilingual (Spanish & English), Queer Bisexual Mexican-American, & Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I understand that most of us want to feel seen, heard, & accepted. Although outward validation & affirmation helps, the deep work & healing lies in being able to validate & affirm ourselves, all of our identities, & lived experiences. In our lives as we continue evolving & changing as individuals, we reach points where the coping strategies we have previously used, & that have helped us survive at one point, may no longer serve us, & they can actually interfere with our ability to connect to ourselves & others.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC, particularly Latine.
Welcome! As a Bilingual (Spanish & English), Queer Bisexual Mexican-American, & Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I understand that most of us want to feel seen, heard, & accepted. Although outward validation & affirmation helps, the deep work & healing lies in being able to validate & affirm ourselves, all of our identities, & lived experiences. In our lives as we continue evolving & changing as individuals, we reach points where the coping strategies we have previously used, & that have helped us survive at one point, may no longer serve us, & they can actually interfere with our ability to connect to ourselves & others.
This can include issues of identity, orientation, systemic issues, and communication barriers that might be impacting a transition or feeling of stability.
We are all continually moving through different spaces trying to establish who we are and what is important to us. Adjusting to these environments can be especially difficult if who you are is not embraced, whether it is within your family, at work, in the military, in a social group, or faith-based community. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am an advocate for underrepresented individuals and communities, and try to be affirming to those struggling with being accepted or understood. Therapy can be a space to better recognize your needs, your values, and how to cope more effectively.
This can include issues of identity, orientation, systemic issues, and communication barriers that might be impacting a transition or feeling of stability.
We are all continually moving through different spaces trying to establish who we are and what is important to us. Adjusting to these environments can be especially difficult if who you are is not embraced, whether it is within your family, at work, in the military, in a social group, or faith-based community. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am an advocate for underrepresented individuals and communities, and try to be affirming to those struggling with being accepted or understood. Therapy can be a space to better recognize your needs, your values, and how to cope more effectively.
James Sharkey @ Grow Through Life Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Hello! I enjoy treating: grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, identity development, LGBTQ+, men’s mental health, relationship infidelity, divorce and separation, co- parenting, and communication development. I work with adults, children, teens, families, and couples. I establish a safe and affirming space, tailoring sessions to address diverse needs. I invite clients to explore their own unique journey and I am here to support you through navigating life's challenges in a self-compassionate and healing manner. I am a sensitive and thoughtful provider.
Hello! I enjoy treating: grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, identity development, LGBTQ+, men’s mental health, relationship infidelity, divorce and separation, co- parenting, and communication development. I work with adults, children, teens, families, and couples. I establish a safe and affirming space, tailoring sessions to address diverse needs. I invite clients to explore their own unique journey and I am here to support you through navigating life's challenges in a self-compassionate and healing manner. I am a sensitive and thoughtful provider.
Looking for a queer affirming therapist who reflects your identity and provides a safe space to heal? Struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, or PTSD? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Life is too short to be held back by relationships that no longer serve us, trauma that continues to impact our daily lives, and anxious thinking that preoccupies us day after day. My goal is to work with you to identify and incorporate coping skills that will lend to a more joyful and fulfilling life.
Looking for a queer affirming therapist who reflects your identity and provides a safe space to heal? Struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, or PTSD? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Life is too short to be held back by relationships that no longer serve us, trauma that continues to impact our daily lives, and anxious thinking that preoccupies us day after day. My goal is to work with you to identify and incorporate coping skills that will lend to a more joyful and fulfilling life.
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Elizabeth Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
Elizabeth is a multicultural and nonbinary provider who specializes in providing affirming care for members of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as those experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem/worth, and challenges due to ADHD and Autism. Elizabeth believes that who you are as a person does influence who you are as a therapist and is therefore open to personal questions.
Elizabeth is a multicultural and nonbinary provider who specializes in providing affirming care for members of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as those experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem/worth, and challenges due to ADHD and Autism. Elizabeth believes that who you are as a person does influence who you are as a therapist and is therefore open to personal questions.
June Cabales
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Together, we can be in better understanding of how you've come to story your life - challenging the limiting influence of messages that sound like "what should be" and "what's supposed to be" - and come into more preferred ways of being. I am guided to support you through sex and gender issues, identity development across different contexts like age and culture, relationship problems, and life transitions by my own experiences in the identities I hold as a queer, 1st generation Filipino-American as well as my training and values as a therapist. We may encounter difficult moments together, but I'll be with you every step of the way!
Together, we can be in better understanding of how you've come to story your life - challenging the limiting influence of messages that sound like "what should be" and "what's supposed to be" - and come into more preferred ways of being. I am guided to support you through sex and gender issues, identity development across different contexts like age and culture, relationship problems, and life transitions by my own experiences in the identities I hold as a queer, 1st generation Filipino-American as well as my training and values as a therapist. We may encounter difficult moments together, but I'll be with you every step of the way!
I am a queer therapist that practices through an intersectional, multicultural, and decolonizing lens.
You might be in survival-mode, and that makes sense. Together, we can explore ways to cultivate safety and recovery in your life. My approach centers genuine curiosity, self-compassion, and non-judgment to empower your journey towards healing. Whether you're seeking support for trauma, self-esteem challenges, negative self-talk, anxiety, depression, shame, or difficulties in your relationships, I can help.
I am a queer therapist that practices through an intersectional, multicultural, and decolonizing lens.
You might be in survival-mode, and that makes sense. Together, we can explore ways to cultivate safety and recovery in your life. My approach centers genuine curiosity, self-compassion, and non-judgment to empower your journey towards healing. Whether you're seeking support for trauma, self-esteem challenges, negative self-talk, anxiety, depression, shame, or difficulties in your relationships, I can help.
My specialties include working with immigrants / foreigners, and people who identify as LGBTQ+.
You are so tired of not feeling well, but hesitate to contact a therapist: Can I trust a stranger? Can anybody really help me? On the face of it, you function well in life, but deep inside you feel you don't actually “show up,” or you don't fully “belong.” It is as if your real authentic self is hiding, sensing that “being you” might not be safe enough. Aspects of your life story might explain why you feel uncomfortable, why you feel different than others, or why you are down or anxious. I would love to help you explore such issues in therapy, and work with you on improving your daily life experience.
My specialties include working with immigrants / foreigners, and people who identify as LGBTQ+.
You are so tired of not feeling well, but hesitate to contact a therapist: Can I trust a stranger? Can anybody really help me? On the face of it, you function well in life, but deep inside you feel you don't actually “show up,” or you don't fully “belong.” It is as if your real authentic self is hiding, sensing that “being you” might not be safe enough. Aspects of your life story might explain why you feel uncomfortable, why you feel different than others, or why you are down or anxious. I would love to help you explore such issues in therapy, and work with you on improving your daily life experience.
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 an ongoing battle inside. Queer and Neurospicy (ADHD & Autism Spectrum) 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 the tough life stuff. Children who grew up worrying about upsetting their family or caring for everyone else often become self-abandoning adults.
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 an ongoing battle inside. Queer and Neurospicy (ADHD & Autism Spectrum) 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 the tough life stuff. Children who grew up worrying about upsetting their family or caring for everyone else often become self-abandoning adults.
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.
My focus is on helping members of the LGBTQ+ community.
It’s hard finding a therapist, right? If you are a queer person looking to manage anxiety, recover from religious trauma/religious harm, navigate relational and family problems, or just generally figure out life, you may be in the right place. I am a queer-identified, secular therapist who has also experienced religious harm. I’m into self-compassion, and balancing boundaries with deep connection. I believe laughter is healing, tears can be restorative, and swearing can be cathartic (sometimes all in one session!). So let’s chat. Visit Taramcgrath.com for more info or IG at theagnostictherapist to get to know me.
My focus is on helping members of the LGBTQ+ community.
It’s hard finding a therapist, right? If you are a queer person looking to manage anxiety, recover from religious trauma/religious harm, navigate relational and family problems, or just generally figure out life, you may be in the right place. I am a queer-identified, secular therapist who has also experienced religious harm. I’m into self-compassion, and balancing boundaries with deep connection. I believe laughter is healing, tears can be restorative, and swearing can be cathartic (sometimes all in one session!). So let’s chat. Visit Taramcgrath.com for more info or IG at theagnostictherapist to get to know me.
Jaclyn E. Jacobs
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92131 (Online Only)
Many of my clients come to me feeling disconnected - from themselves, their bodies, their relationships, or their true desires. Often this disconnection stems from past trauma, anxiety, or the pressures of performance and perfectionism that weigh heavily on our systems. People bring me things they might not feel safe talking about with other providers or even friends, such as body image issues, erectile dysfunction, childhood abuse, and gender dysphoria. I specialize in working with queer, nonmonogamous, and kinky folks, though I'm happy to show up for anyone who is ready to nurture a deeper sense of connection in their lives.
Many of my clients come to me feeling disconnected - from themselves, their bodies, their relationships, or their true desires. Often this disconnection stems from past trauma, anxiety, or the pressures of performance and perfectionism that weigh heavily on our systems. People bring me things they might not feel safe talking about with other providers or even friends, such as body image issues, erectile dysfunction, childhood abuse, and gender dysphoria. I specialize in working with queer, nonmonogamous, and kinky folks, though I'm happy to show up for anyone who is ready to nurture a deeper sense of connection in their lives.
Hazel Hamann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
UPDATE 8/24: I'M on LEAVE through OCTOBER 2024. Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
UPDATE 8/24: I'M on LEAVE through OCTOBER 2024. Are you queer and/or trans? Do you feel lost and disconnected from your daily life? Exhausted by life's endless responsibilities? Unhappy and dissatisfied with the relationships in your life? I believe in your capacity to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life. I'm here to support your path there. I'm a queer, transgender, & Latinx therapist who has worked with my communities and beyond for 10+ years. I specialize in working with concerns related to relationships, life transitions, intimacy, gender, and sexuality. Let’s work together toward greater balance, growth, and freedom.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Bonita
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- La Jolla
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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.