Transgender Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Jordan D Danly, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jordan D Danly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I provide comprehensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for adults and adolescents with difficulty regulating emotions, maintaining healthy and close relationships, and tolerating distress. I have experience and training working with those who have thoughts or urges for suicide and self harm. I want to help you build the life you have always desired! I am also a trained Gender Therapist and enjoy working with gender-expansive and transgender youth and adults seeking support for their gender identity and/or transition process. In addition, I am a Level 2 Gottman trained Couples Therapist.
I provide comprehensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for adults and adolescents with difficulty regulating emotions, maintaining healthy and close relationships, and tolerating distress. I have experience and training working with those who have thoughts or urges for suicide and self harm. I want to help you build the life you have always desired! I am also a trained Gender Therapist and enjoy working with gender-expansive and transgender youth and adults seeking support for their gender identity and/or transition process. In addition, I am a Level 2 Gottman trained Couples Therapist.
(858) 252-0503 View (858) 252-0503
Photo of Donna M Chapman, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donna M Chapman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I provide services to a variety of populations: LGBT and straight, Vets, Active Duty Military, Transgender men and women, families and couples with a member who is Transgender.
I care...Let me help. We will create a safe, non-judgmental space from which to begin the process of healing. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families who have challenges in substance abuse, anxiety, depression, borderline personality issues and relationship problems. I also enjoy working with the LGBT community, specifically with Transgender people and their families. My rich life experience (fancy language for I'm older) allows me to truly align with partners and families that have members who are transgender and to be an ally with transgender individuals as they transition.
I provide services to a variety of populations: LGBT and straight, Vets, Active Duty Military, Transgender men and women, families and couples with a member who is Transgender.
I care...Let me help. We will create a safe, non-judgmental space from which to begin the process of healing. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families who have challenges in substance abuse, anxiety, depression, borderline personality issues and relationship problems. I also enjoy working with the LGBT community, specifically with Transgender people and their families. My rich life experience (fancy language for I'm older) allows me to truly align with partners and families that have members who are transgender and to be an ally with transgender individuals as they transition.
(619) 780-2559 View (619) 780-2559
Photo of Ezak Marquez, LPCC, Counselor
Ezak Marquez
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
(619) 329-9950 View (619) 329-9950
Photo of Kwilanzo Amitai-Crawford, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kwilanzo Amitai-Crawford
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist registered with the California Behavioral Board of Science and a transgender retired combat vet.
Have you ever felt invisible? Even to the people who matter to you most? Are you interested in making a change in your life? Or finding/creating the new you? I believe that we are all on our own heroic journey in search of our own unique calling. My passion is to assist you in your journey and to help you find the treasure buried within you.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist registered with the California Behavioral Board of Science and a transgender retired combat vet.
Have you ever felt invisible? Even to the people who matter to you most? Are you interested in making a change in your life? Or finding/creating the new you? I believe that we are all on our own heroic journey in search of our own unique calling. My passion is to assist you in your journey and to help you find the treasure buried within you.
(619) 942-5435 View (619) 942-5435
Photo of Marci Kyle - The Lotus Counseling Center, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Lotus Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92115
I treat most issues, however, I specialize in teens, adults, the transgender population, women's issues, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and addiction.
I offer Telehealth counseling services for a wide range of life's challenges. I provide services that span from therapy for depression, anxiety, transgender related issues, women's issues, adolescent issues, trauma, addiction, to serious or terminal heath issues. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each clients' individual needs to assist in attaining the personal growth they are striving for.
I treat most issues, however, I specialize in teens, adults, the transgender population, women's issues, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and addiction.
I offer Telehealth counseling services for a wide range of life's challenges. I provide services that span from therapy for depression, anxiety, transgender related issues, women's issues, adolescent issues, trauma, addiction, to serious or terminal heath issues. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each clients' individual needs to assist in attaining the personal growth they are striving for.
(619) 279-5782 View (619) 279-5782
Photo of Pamuela Halliwell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pamuela Halliwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Waitlist for new clients
I am a transgender therapist embarking on my own personal journey to transitioning.
I think we all can have a time in our lives where we reach a problem or a series of problems and are faced with the question of "how do I get through this?" or "what should I do?" Regardless of what brought you to that crossroad, therapy is a useful means to help you figure out what to do next. Your time is important and your life is meant to be full of happiness. We all are transitioning from something and have to make the choice about what is best for us. Live your life and enjoy it.
I am a transgender therapist embarking on my own personal journey to transitioning.
I think we all can have a time in our lives where we reach a problem or a series of problems and are faced with the question of "how do I get through this?" or "what should I do?" Regardless of what brought you to that crossroad, therapy is a useful means to help you figure out what to do next. Your time is important and your life is meant to be full of happiness. We all are transitioning from something and have to make the choice about what is best for us. Live your life and enjoy it.
(619) 389-3124 View (619) 389-3124
Photo of Zaire Flowers, Pre-Licensed Professional
Zaire Flowers
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116  (Online Only)
As a transgender, black, and openly queer therapist, I have the skills and experience to help you reach your true potential.
Are you a Black, Queer, Trans, or differently-abled person ready to live authentically with no regrets? I'll help you build the confidence and self-love that will get you there. Discover a life where self-expression thrives and empowerment reigns! I help people of all genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions overcome their internalized oppression and step into a better future. Learn how to eliminate the emotional obstacles that are blocking the path to your best life. Discover delight, balance, and confidence in your own skin. Change the way you live and experience the life that is rightfully yours!
As a transgender, black, and openly queer therapist, I have the skills and experience to help you reach your true potential.
Are you a Black, Queer, Trans, or differently-abled person ready to live authentically with no regrets? I'll help you build the confidence and self-love that will get you there. Discover a life where self-expression thrives and empowerment reigns! I help people of all genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions overcome their internalized oppression and step into a better future. Learn how to eliminate the emotional obstacles that are blocking the path to your best life. Discover delight, balance, and confidence in your own skin. Change the way you live and experience the life that is rightfully yours!
(858) 263-0674 x8 View (858) 263-0674 x8
Photo of Stacey Jackson-Roberts, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey Jackson-Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I offer therapy to individuals exploring various aspects of gender (transgender, cisgender, and gender diverse) and sexuality (LGBTQ+, straight, ENM/Poly, Kink). My goal is to create a supportive environment where we can tackle challenges related to sexuality, relationships, personal growth, and overall mental health. Together, we’ll engage in empathetic, nonjudgmental conversations to identify areas for growth and celebrate your achievements. I’ll customize our sessions using diverse therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs, values, and goals, helping you define your journey in life and relationships.
I offer therapy to individuals exploring various aspects of gender (transgender, cisgender, and gender diverse) and sexuality (LGBTQ+, straight, ENM/Poly, Kink). My goal is to create a supportive environment where we can tackle challenges related to sexuality, relationships, personal growth, and overall mental health. Together, we’ll engage in empathetic, nonjudgmental conversations to identify areas for growth and celebrate your achievements. I’ll customize our sessions using diverse therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs, values, and goals, helping you define your journey in life and relationships.
(323) 417-5441 View (323) 417-5441
Photo of Adrian Belmes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Adrian Belmes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
If you are searching for support and hope, 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 adolescents. My practice is centered on supporting individuals facing questions of gender exploration, sexuality, identity formation, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict.
If you are searching for support and hope, 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 adolescents. My practice is centered on supporting individuals facing questions of gender exploration, sexuality, identity formation, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and interpersonal conflict.
(760) 477-4865 View (760) 477-4865
Photo of Elizabeth (Lizzy) Ritti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth (Lizzy) Ritti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
I utilize my clinical training in CBT, Affirmative Therapy for Transgender Communities, and Exposure Response Prevention in therapy.
I provide mental health care to youth, families, and adults coping with life transitions, chronic family stress, and identity development. These circumstances have led many individuals to experience symptoms of depression, trauma, anxiety, and feelings of loss. It is a sign of bravery and strength to seek support when these stressors are difficult to manage on your own. I am here to explore ways to improve your quality of life and identify unmet needs contributing to mental health symptoms.
I utilize my clinical training in CBT, Affirmative Therapy for Transgender Communities, and Exposure Response Prevention in therapy.
I provide mental health care to youth, families, and adults coping with life transitions, chronic family stress, and identity development. These circumstances have led many individuals to experience symptoms of depression, trauma, anxiety, and feelings of loss. It is a sign of bravery and strength to seek support when these stressors are difficult to manage on your own. I am here to explore ways to improve your quality of life and identify unmet needs contributing to mental health symptoms.
(619) 881-0303 View (619) 881-0303
Photo of Dr. Jason N Linder Associates - Dr. Jason N Linder & Associates, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jason N Linder & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
I help people, especially entrepreneurs, have better relationships, resolve painful memories (I'm certified & train in EMDR), embrace who they are, and decrease anxiety. I adjust my approach to fit your needs and preferences. Expert in transgender, ESA, VA, immigration, and trauma evaluations. Advanced in trauma, addiction, relationships, and mindfulness (I write about them on Psychology Today). You can usually expect change in 2-8 sessions. As a psychology doctor and professor, I’m updated on the latest research, and am dedicated, caring, and collaborative. You should feel understood, hopeful, and safe in your confidential therapy.
I help people, especially entrepreneurs, have better relationships, resolve painful memories (I'm certified & train in EMDR), embrace who they are, and decrease anxiety. I adjust my approach to fit your needs and preferences. Expert in transgender, ESA, VA, immigration, and trauma evaluations. Advanced in trauma, addiction, relationships, and mindfulness (I write about them on Psychology Today). You can usually expect change in 2-8 sessions. As a psychology doctor and professor, I’m updated on the latest research, and am dedicated, caring, and collaborative. You should feel understood, hopeful, and safe in your confidential therapy.
(619) 473-7607 View (619) 473-7607
Photo of Jesse Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jesse Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Do you often wonder where or how you fit in? Do you sometimes feel held back by cultural notions, assumptions, and expectations surrounding gender and sexuality? Whether you are questioning or exploring your gender identity, or you identify as transgender, non-binary, or gender expansive and are seeking gender-affirming care – I can help you navigate these hurdles and develop the tools and skills you need to live a more fulfilling and joyful life. And if you are reacquainting with your body during or after your gender transition process, I am also trained in Sex Therapy and offer the unique service of Gender-Affirming Sex Therapy.
Do you often wonder where or how you fit in? Do you sometimes feel held back by cultural notions, assumptions, and expectations surrounding gender and sexuality? Whether you are questioning or exploring your gender identity, or you identify as transgender, non-binary, or gender expansive and are seeking gender-affirming care – I can help you navigate these hurdles and develop the tools and skills you need to live a more fulfilling and joyful life. And if you are reacquainting with your body during or after your gender transition process, I am also trained in Sex Therapy and offer the unique service of Gender-Affirming Sex Therapy.
(619) 393-7925 View (619) 393-7925
Photo of Michael Toohey, PsyD, Psychologist
Michael Toohey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I have an extensive background working with minorities, including sexual minorities, transgender youth/adults, and their families, with expertise in navigating the transitioning process, and beyond.
I recognize that coming to therapy is a courageous first step and that you are taking a chance when you make that first appointment, especially when you are struggling. I consider it an honor to be entrusted by one seeking help. I demonstrate that honor by being committed to providing you with practical feedback in an empathetic and compassionate manner. With cognitive behavioral strategies, I provide techniques to manage and reduce negative symptoms by tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs.
I have an extensive background working with minorities, including sexual minorities, transgender youth/adults, and their families, with expertise in navigating the transitioning process, and beyond.
I recognize that coming to therapy is a courageous first step and that you are taking a chance when you make that first appointment, especially when you are struggling. I consider it an honor to be entrusted by one seeking help. I demonstrate that honor by being committed to providing you with practical feedback in an empathetic and compassionate manner. With cognitive behavioral strategies, I provide techniques to manage and reduce negative symptoms by tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs.
(619) 853-6745 View (619) 853-6745
Photo of John L Guinn, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John L Guinn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116
I work well with couples, families, adolescents, young adults, older adults, survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence, members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and intersex (GLBTQQI) community, active duty servicemembers and veterans of the U.
"There is no normal life that is free of pain. It's the very wrestling with our problems that can be the IMPETUS for our growth." (Mister Rogers). Approaching mental health and psychotherapy from a person-centered, solution-focused, and action-oriented perspective allows me to assist individuals from diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds with creating and maintaining fulfilling relationships while sustaining a balanced life.
I work well with couples, families, adolescents, young adults, older adults, survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence, members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and intersex (GLBTQQI) community, active duty servicemembers and veterans of the U.
"There is no normal life that is free of pain. It's the very wrestling with our problems that can be the IMPETUS for our growth." (Mister Rogers). Approaching mental health and psychotherapy from a person-centered, solution-focused, and action-oriented perspective allows me to assist individuals from diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds with creating and maintaining fulfilling relationships while sustaining a balanced life.
(619) 382-2909 View (619) 382-2909
Photo of Rene Martinez, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rene Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I characterize my therapeutic approach as imaginative, straightforward, investigative, organized, encouraging, and affirming. I offer several forms of therapy, including narrative, psychodynamic, mindfulness, Latin X, and solutions-focused approaches. I have a wide range of experiences with addiction, abuse and trauma, chronic illness, cultural issues, family dynamics, and transgender challenges. I am also fluent in Spanish when it comes to treatment. I like to travel, spend time with my family, and train my five parrots in my free time.
I characterize my therapeutic approach as imaginative, straightforward, investigative, organized, encouraging, and affirming. I offer several forms of therapy, including narrative, psychodynamic, mindfulness, Latin X, and solutions-focused approaches. I have a wide range of experiences with addiction, abuse and trauma, chronic illness, cultural issues, family dynamics, and transgender challenges. I am also fluent in Spanish when it comes to treatment. I like to travel, spend time with my family, and train my five parrots in my free time.
(619) 257-5126 View (619) 257-5126
Photo of Maegan K A Nelson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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.
(619) 486-9710 View (619) 486-9710
Photo of Christopher Hamann - Hazel Hamann, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hazel Hamann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Update 7/24: I'll be on leave Aug 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 7/24: I'll be on leave Aug 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.
(858) 251-8653 View (858) 251-8653
Photo of Gissell Rodriguez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gissell Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
Hello and welcome! I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am committed to providing all my clients with compassionate support, an affirming space to be themselves, and a lens of curiosity and acceptance free of judgment. I work with adults and couples challenged by relationship issues, trauma, grief, life transitions, anxiety, somatic symptoms, identity issues, gender dysphoria, depression, and neurodivergence. Through our work we can help you identify and break out of cycles that are no longer serving you, renew your sense of hope & zest for life, and create lifelong changes.
Hello and welcome! I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am committed to providing all my clients with compassionate support, an affirming space to be themselves, and a lens of curiosity and acceptance free of judgment. I work with adults and couples challenged by relationship issues, trauma, grief, life transitions, anxiety, somatic symptoms, identity issues, gender dysphoria, depression, and neurodivergence. Through our work we can help you identify and break out of cycles that are no longer serving you, renew your sense of hope & zest for life, and create lifelong changes.
(619) 853-4568 View (619) 853-4568
Photo of Kelsey Lynn Paulson, PhD, Psychologist
Kelsey Lynn Paulson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
Not accepting new clients
Kelsey also works with the LGBTQ and Kink communities, and provides Gender Affirming Therapy to the Transgender community.
Dr. Kelsey Paulson is NOT Accepting New Clients. Over the past 17 years, Kelsey has received training and experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, older adults, families, couples, active duty service members, and Veterans. She has extensive experience working with severe mental illness, mood/anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use disorders, trauma, and chronic pain.
Kelsey also works with the LGBTQ and Kink communities, and provides Gender Affirming Therapy to the Transgender community.
Dr. Kelsey Paulson is NOT Accepting New Clients. Over the past 17 years, Kelsey has received training and experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, older adults, families, couples, active duty service members, and Veterans. She has extensive experience working with severe mental illness, mood/anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use disorders, trauma, and chronic pain.
(858) 943-6379 View (858) 943-6379
Photo of Lotus Do, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lotus Do
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
As a Vietnamese-American transgender man, I understand that stress, violence and oppression can significantly impact our lives.
Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless? Facing a crossroads? Exhausted by endless responsibilities? Relief may seem impossible when you are faced with chronic stress or extreme difficulties... but it is possible. My name is Lotus and I may be able to help. I am a Licensed Therapist and Gender Specialist with nearly a decade of experience specializing in Gender Dysphoria, complex trauma, depression, anxiety and disordered eating across the entire lifespan. Whether you are seeking support for you or your child, no topic is "too much" for me. I have supported hundreds of children and their families and adults build balanced, joyful lives.
As a Vietnamese-American transgender man, I understand that stress, violence and oppression can significantly impact our lives.
Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless? Facing a crossroads? Exhausted by endless responsibilities? Relief may seem impossible when you are faced with chronic stress or extreme difficulties... but it is possible. My name is Lotus and I may be able to help. I am a Licensed Therapist and Gender Specialist with nearly a decade of experience specializing in Gender Dysphoria, complex trauma, depression, anxiety and disordered eating across the entire lifespan. Whether you are seeking support for you or your child, no topic is "too much" for me. I have supported hundreds of children and their families and adults build balanced, joyful lives.
(619) 383-3284 View (619) 383-3284
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Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.