Transgender Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Luanna Rodgers, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Luanna Rodgers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
My work with transgender individuals includes supportive psychotherapy, assessment, coming out, gender change and choices, confidence building, relationship issues, and referrals for ancillary services.
I am a caring, empathetic, and experienced therapist with more than 20 years in practice. I can assist you to find your unique life's path, overcome obstacles such as difficult emotions and past trauma, and expand your potential for happiness. I work with individuals, families, and people in many sorts of relationships, especially in the areas of anxiety and stress management, trauma and post-traumatic stress, depression, self worth and self-actualization, gender identity, sexuality and intimacy, and life transitions.
My work with transgender individuals includes supportive psychotherapy, assessment, coming out, gender change and choices, confidence building, relationship issues, and referrals for ancillary services.
I am a caring, empathetic, and experienced therapist with more than 20 years in practice. I can assist you to find your unique life's path, overcome obstacles such as difficult emotions and past trauma, and expand your potential for happiness. I work with individuals, families, and people in many sorts of relationships, especially in the areas of anxiety and stress management, trauma and post-traumatic stress, depression, self worth and self-actualization, gender identity, sexuality and intimacy, and life transitions.
(415) 697-3853 View (415) 697-3853
Photo of Estella Violet, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Estella Violet
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I work with folks dealing with a variety of life challenges including anxiety, depression, shame, gender dysphoria, trauma, and low self-esteem. My clinical focus is working with members of the queer community, and I am particularly interested in working with transgender and gender non-conforming adults and adolescents and their families as well as individuals and partners involved in polyamorous and non-monogamous relationships. Therapy is a space for healing, but I believe that it is equally important that we center joy, growth, and resilience in this work as well.
I work with folks dealing with a variety of life challenges including anxiety, depression, shame, gender dysphoria, trauma, and low self-esteem. My clinical focus is working with members of the queer community, and I am particularly interested in working with transgender and gender non-conforming adults and adolescents and their families as well as individuals and partners involved in polyamorous and non-monogamous relationships. Therapy is a space for healing, but I believe that it is equally important that we center joy, growth, and resilience in this work as well.
(415) 610-4989 View (415) 610-4989
Photo of Dr. Luke Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Luke Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
(341) 895-5594 View (341) 895-5594
Photo of Michelanne Baker, PsyD, Psychologist
Michelanne Baker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
I have over twenty years working with people who identify as either lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or transgender/non-binary as well as people from diverse ethnic and racial groups.
My approach to therapy is interactive and relational. I believe that the relationship between the therapist and client is what is most healing and helpful in therapy. I strive to create a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where difficult issues can be addressed. When people feel supported and understood; they are often more able to face challenges. I also help clients become more aware of the obstacles which prevent them from leading more satisfying lives. Sometimes that may involve exploring past experiences and relationships or it may involve learning new coping skills.
I have over twenty years working with people who identify as either lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or transgender/non-binary as well as people from diverse ethnic and racial groups.
My approach to therapy is interactive and relational. I believe that the relationship between the therapist and client is what is most healing and helpful in therapy. I strive to create a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where difficult issues can be addressed. When people feel supported and understood; they are often more able to face challenges. I also help clients become more aware of the obstacles which prevent them from leading more satisfying lives. Sometimes that may involve exploring past experiences and relationships or it may involve learning new coping skills.
(415) 766-0973 View (415) 766-0973
Photo of Jeanna Eichenbaum, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeanna Eichenbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
My speciaties include marriage and relationship work, including monogamous and polyamorous relationships, alternative sexuality concerns (kink/BDSM/vanilla), transgender and non-binary issues and transition support, LGBTQQI supportive therapy, and recovery from depression, anxiety, and trauma/PTSD related disorders.
Longing for a different outcome? Want to write a new story? You are probably hoping to find support with the process of healing something that isn't feeling right. Psychotherapy can help by offering an accepting space to look, non-judgmentally, at whatever feels stuck, painful, or unresolved. Use my support and encouragement to help you approach these challenges in new ways, and find new solutions. My goal is to provide you with acceptance and ways to access your own innate wisdom and energy. I offer individual and relationship psychotherapy. Short and long term therapy options are available, depending on your concerns and goals.
My speciaties include marriage and relationship work, including monogamous and polyamorous relationships, alternative sexuality concerns (kink/BDSM/vanilla), transgender and non-binary issues and transition support, LGBTQQI supportive therapy, and recovery from depression, anxiety, and trauma/PTSD related disorders.
Longing for a different outcome? Want to write a new story? You are probably hoping to find support with the process of healing something that isn't feeling right. Psychotherapy can help by offering an accepting space to look, non-judgmentally, at whatever feels stuck, painful, or unresolved. Use my support and encouragement to help you approach these challenges in new ways, and find new solutions. My goal is to provide you with acceptance and ways to access your own innate wisdom and energy. I offer individual and relationship psychotherapy. Short and long term therapy options are available, depending on your concerns and goals.
(415) 799-4049 View (415) 799-4049
Photo of Lark Nierenberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lark Nierenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a therapeutic focus on gender and sexuality, early trauma, and family and relationship dynamics. My approach is empathic, warm, and thoughtful. My clients often wish to understand their identities more deeply; seek support staying true to themselves in their relationships and community; and pursue healing and meaning-making following trauma. Through our work, you can develop new insights and coping skills to manage overwhelm, anxiety, depression, or life transitions. I'm particularly dedicated to working with queer, transgender, non-binary, and kink communities.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a therapeutic focus on gender and sexuality, early trauma, and family and relationship dynamics. My approach is empathic, warm, and thoughtful. My clients often wish to understand their identities more deeply; seek support staying true to themselves in their relationships and community; and pursue healing and meaning-making following trauma. Through our work, you can develop new insights and coping skills to manage overwhelm, anxiety, depression, or life transitions. I'm particularly dedicated to working with queer, transgender, non-binary, and kink communities.
(415) 851-8370 View (415) 851-8370
Photo of Skye Nashelsky, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Skye Nashelsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
My expertise is with LGBTQIA+, especially transgender, nonbinary, and gender diverse folks, & BIPOC communities.
You have the capacity to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life! There are multiple forms and layers of oppression that impact our daily lives and self worth. I support clients in acknowledging and addressing shame, grief, trauma, and anxiety. I specialize in issues concerning gender, sexuality, intimacy, relationships, and identity. As your therapist, I act as a support working collaboratively alongside you to identify goals, action steps and interventions tailored specifically to your individual needs and identity.
My expertise is with LGBTQIA+, especially transgender, nonbinary, and gender diverse folks, & BIPOC communities.
You have the capacity to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life! There are multiple forms and layers of oppression that impact our daily lives and self worth. I support clients in acknowledging and addressing shame, grief, trauma, and anxiety. I specialize in issues concerning gender, sexuality, intimacy, relationships, and identity. As your therapist, I act as a support working collaboratively alongside you to identify goals, action steps and interventions tailored specifically to your individual needs and identity.
(510) 395-8008 View (510) 395-8008
Photo of Remi Bean - Remi Bean, LPCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Remi Bean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with transgender, non-binary, and queer clients who are exploring their gender and sexuality.
Many of us move through life ashamed of who we really are, believing we're unlovable at our core or that we're not enough - for our parents, our partners, our friends, or the world at large. These beliefs can keep us feeling stuck and alone, or even cause conflict with people we care about. A therapist is a safe person who can help you see past the lies that your anxiety, depression, and trauma tell you about yourself, so that you can see yourself with new eyes and learn to love and accept yourself as you are. Embracing yourself without judgment makes it easier to cope with life stress and conflict and to heal from trauma.
I specialize in working with transgender, non-binary, and queer clients who are exploring their gender and sexuality.
Many of us move through life ashamed of who we really are, believing we're unlovable at our core or that we're not enough - for our parents, our partners, our friends, or the world at large. These beliefs can keep us feeling stuck and alone, or even cause conflict with people we care about. A therapist is a safe person who can help you see past the lies that your anxiety, depression, and trauma tell you about yourself, so that you can see yourself with new eyes and learn to love and accept yourself as you are. Embracing yourself without judgment makes it easier to cope with life stress and conflict and to heal from trauma.
(510) 216-1873 View (510) 216-1873
Photo of John Hanig, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Hanig
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
Looking for a queer therapist? I specialize in working with queer, gay, bisexual, & transgender adults & adolescents in California. I am most passionate about providing advocacy for cultural and economic diversity in our community and serving LGBTQ+ people experiencing depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Engaging in therapy is more important than ever especially in response to our current political climate and recent backlash of conservative values showing incredible disrespect toward the LGBTQ+ community and throwing extra stress at immigrant populations and POC.
Looking for a queer therapist? I specialize in working with queer, gay, bisexual, & transgender adults & adolescents in California. I am most passionate about providing advocacy for cultural and economic diversity in our community and serving LGBTQ+ people experiencing depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Engaging in therapy is more important than ever especially in response to our current political climate and recent backlash of conservative values showing incredible disrespect toward the LGBTQ+ community and throwing extra stress at immigrant populations and POC.
(415) 504-3833 View (415) 504-3833
Photo of Sam Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105
I am a trans Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with trans, queer, genderqueer, and gender-nonconforming teens and adults. I have a non-pathologizing approach and deeply value identities outside the "norm." I have fifteen years of experience as a mental health provider, including support groups with teens and adults, individual therapy, and crisis work. I am a Bay Area activist who has fought for transgender rights by organizing provider trainings and public demonstrations. I am a visual artist and storyteller who believes that underrepresented individuals expressing themselves creatively and authentically is powerful and important.
I am a trans Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with trans, queer, genderqueer, and gender-nonconforming teens and adults. I have a non-pathologizing approach and deeply value identities outside the "norm." I have fifteen years of experience as a mental health provider, including support groups with teens and adults, individual therapy, and crisis work. I am a Bay Area activist who has fought for transgender rights by organizing provider trainings and public demonstrations. I am a visual artist and storyteller who believes that underrepresented individuals expressing themselves creatively and authentically is powerful and important.
(781) 417-5129 View (781) 417-5129
Photo of Jordyn Serwin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jordyn Serwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
We all deserve to feel seen, included, and understood, no matter who we are. As an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, my aim is to help you better see yourself in all aspects of who you are, feel more included in relation to those around you, and experience a greater understanding of how you fit into a wider world. Maybe you’re exploring your non-binary gender for the first time. Maybe you’re supporting a transgender family member or partner. Maybe you’re working through relationship challenges as an LGBTQ+ person. Together, we can explore what “seen,” “included,” and “understood” mean for you and how you can achieve them.
We all deserve to feel seen, included, and understood, no matter who we are. As an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist, my aim is to help you better see yourself in all aspects of who you are, feel more included in relation to those around you, and experience a greater understanding of how you fit into a wider world. Maybe you’re exploring your non-binary gender for the first time. Maybe you’re supporting a transgender family member or partner. Maybe you’re working through relationship challenges as an LGBTQ+ person. Together, we can explore what “seen,” “included,” and “understood” mean for you and how you can achieve them.
(818) 938-8213 View (818) 938-8213
Photo of Zaire Flowers, Pre-Licensed Professional
Zaire Flowers
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (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 View (858) 263-0674
Photo of Ezak Marquez, LPCC, Counselor
Ezak Marquez
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (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 Bren Benoit, LPCC
Bren Benoit
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
It is a radical act to pursue health, liberation, and self-acceptance in a world that too often seeks to dehumanize and control us. My intention is for therapy to be a refuge from that pressure and trauma, where you can explore who you want to be and how you want to live your life. Everyone has unique needs, strengths, and values, so my therapeutic approach is always as collaborative and egalitarian as possible. As a member of the transgender community, I am particularly experienced in issues relating to LGBTQ+ identity, relationships, and discrimination.
It is a radical act to pursue health, liberation, and self-acceptance in a world that too often seeks to dehumanize and control us. My intention is for therapy to be a refuge from that pressure and trauma, where you can explore who you want to be and how you want to live your life. Everyone has unique needs, strengths, and values, so my therapeutic approach is always as collaborative and egalitarian as possible. As a member of the transgender community, I am particularly experienced in issues relating to LGBTQ+ identity, relationships, and discrimination.
(341) 895-5783 View (341) 895-5783
Photo of Bianca Christian, ACSW
Bianca Christian
ACSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
Additionally, I have gained rewarding, and pivotal counseling experience with the LGBTQ+ community, with specific experience counseling Transgender community members.
The way in which a person cultivates their sense of self, self-esteem, and relationships with others, can be extremely important in their path to wellness. My goal is to meet every client where they are in their journey to mental health and wellness, which means we start where you are and not where I think you should be. I believe that everyone has the capacity to become their best selves and that my work is to provide a safe, helpful, and non-judgmental, environment for those who I am working with.
Additionally, I have gained rewarding, and pivotal counseling experience with the LGBTQ+ community, with specific experience counseling Transgender community members.
The way in which a person cultivates their sense of self, self-esteem, and relationships with others, can be extremely important in their path to wellness. My goal is to meet every client where they are in their journey to mental health and wellness, which means we start where you are and not where I think you should be. I believe that everyone has the capacity to become their best selves and that my work is to provide a safe, helpful, and non-judgmental, environment for those who I am working with.
(916) 269-4958 View (916) 269-4958
Photo of Fii Sperling, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Fii Sperling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94112
It can be hard to live in a society that doesn’t validate and celebrate your identities and harder still to find spaces that seek to affirm and support you. As a queer, transgender & non-binary, and chronically ill therapist, I've been there too. That is why my approach to therapy centers you as the expert in the room because I believe the wisdom in your lived experience. Are you curious about you gender or sexual identity, struggling to exist in this cishetero-white supremacist culture? Are you trying to understand and break relational patterns?
It can be hard to live in a society that doesn’t validate and celebrate your identities and harder still to find spaces that seek to affirm and support you. As a queer, transgender & non-binary, and chronically ill therapist, I've been there too. That is why my approach to therapy centers you as the expert in the room because I believe the wisdom in your lived experience. Are you curious about you gender or sexual identity, struggling to exist in this cishetero-white supremacist culture? Are you trying to understand and break relational patterns?
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Photo of Angelica Yi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelica Yi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
As a queer and bisexual, nonbinary femme, 2nd generation Korean American, I specialize in working with those who identify as LGBTQ+, BIPOC, adult children of immigrants, gender expansive, nonbinary, and transgender. I tend to work with folks who create their own paths in life - ones that may diverge from the norm. Oftentimes, these paths emerge from a place of necessity, without much support, and lacking a roadmap or guide.
As a queer and bisexual, nonbinary femme, 2nd generation Korean American, I specialize in working with those who identify as LGBTQ+, BIPOC, adult children of immigrants, gender expansive, nonbinary, and transgender. I tend to work with folks who create their own paths in life - ones that may diverge from the norm. Oftentimes, these paths emerge from a place of necessity, without much support, and lacking a roadmap or guide.
(415) 449-9963 View (415) 449-9963
Photo of Riley Jana Morgan | Autism Focused | Neurodivergent Affirming, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Riley Jana Morgan | Autism Focused | Neurodivergent Affirming
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
If you are an Autistic adult seeking autism-focused and neurodivergent affirming therapy, I will help you feel safe, supported, and heard with compassion. I am Autistic myself, which often enhances the therapy experience for my clients. Autism-focused therapy is informed by the neurodiversity affirming model to address your unique concerns by reducing autistic burnout, anxiety, depression, masking, the distress of meltdowns and shutdowns, low self-esteem, and difficulties with work or school performance, among many other concerns. I also welcome your authentic self and support my LGBTQIA+, transgender, non-binary, and BIPOC clients.
If you are an Autistic adult seeking autism-focused and neurodivergent affirming therapy, I will help you feel safe, supported, and heard with compassion. I am Autistic myself, which often enhances the therapy experience for my clients. Autism-focused therapy is informed by the neurodiversity affirming model to address your unique concerns by reducing autistic burnout, anxiety, depression, masking, the distress of meltdowns and shutdowns, low self-esteem, and difficulties with work or school performance, among many other concerns. I also welcome your authentic self and support my LGBTQIA+, transgender, non-binary, and BIPOC clients.
(415) 358-6700 View (415) 358-6700
Photo of Michael Stample, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Stample
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
Hello, I'm Michael F. Stample, PhD, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I work extensively with individual adults, couples and families. My primary expertise is in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, dual diagnosis, LGBTQ+ and transgender healthcare. I mostly work with adults over age 17 or 18, through the later years. While psychiatric diagnoses have their uses, I prefer to see my clients as dealing with "problems of living." I work comfortably with psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and other evidence-based therapies. My early training included internship at the Jung Institute of Los Angeles.
Hello, I'm Michael F. Stample, PhD, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I work extensively with individual adults, couples and families. My primary expertise is in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, dual diagnosis, LGBTQ+ and transgender healthcare. I mostly work with adults over age 17 or 18, through the later years. While psychiatric diagnoses have their uses, I prefer to see my clients as dealing with "problems of living." I work comfortably with psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and other evidence-based therapies. My early training included internship at the Jung Institute of Los Angeles.
(415) 639-5417 View (415) 639-5417
Photo of Karen M Davison, PsyD, Psychologist
Karen M Davison
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
My couples training includes Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Methods and experience working with marginalized populations, including gay, lesbian, pansexual, transgender, and gender non-conforming people, and those who practice BDSM and Consensual Non-Monogamy.
I help couples and individuals improve relationships, affirm identity, manage mood, and change behavior. My background in math and engineering informs my work as a psychologist and educator. I reference and apply cognitive and behavioral science. Clients report that they benefit from our relationship, as well as the information and skills obtained through meetings. My webpage www.dr-davison.com and linked-in profile provides information about my training and experience, and services.
My couples training includes Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Methods and experience working with marginalized populations, including gay, lesbian, pansexual, transgender, and gender non-conforming people, and those who practice BDSM and Consensual Non-Monogamy.
I help couples and individuals improve relationships, affirm identity, manage mood, and change behavior. My background in math and engineering informs my work as a psychologist and educator. I reference and apply cognitive and behavioral science. Clients report that they benefit from our relationship, as well as the information and skills obtained through meetings. My webpage www.dr-davison.com and linked-in profile provides information about my training and experience, and services.
(510) 541-5988 View (510) 541-5988
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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.