LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
Lauren Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Experience the transformative journey of reconnecting with your inner strength and rediscovering your true passions.
Are you seeking a trustworthy ally to navigate your fears, hopes, and aspirations? Perhaps you’re struggling to break free from negative coping habits or you're exploring unconventional paths, such as consensual non-monogamous relationships or LGBTQIA2+ identities, and desire affirming support. I specialize in providing a safe, affirming space where you can explore your unique journey. Through somatic psychology techniques, we can uncover insights and transform unhelpful patterns. You deserve to be authentically seen and celebrated for your contributions to the world.
Experience the transformative journey of reconnecting with your inner strength and rediscovering your true passions.
Are you seeking a trustworthy ally to navigate your fears, hopes, and aspirations? Perhaps you’re struggling to break free from negative coping habits or you're exploring unconventional paths, such as consensual non-monogamous relationships or LGBTQIA2+ identities, and desire affirming support. I specialize in providing a safe, affirming space where you can explore your unique journey. Through somatic psychology techniques, we can uncover insights and transform unhelpful patterns. You deserve to be authentically seen and celebrated for your contributions to the world.
Alex Savage
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty is working with LGBTQ+ folx of all ages, along with adults and teens with a history of trauma.
You and your story deserve to be heard - in a safe, supportive environment, and on your terms.
My specialty is working with LGBTQ+ folx of all ages, along with adults and teens with a history of trauma.
You and your story deserve to be heard - in a safe, supportive environment, and on your terms.
Cassie Ueberrhein Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Some of my specialties include depression, anxiety, relationships, attachment styles, assertiveness, identity development, sexuality, LGBTQ+ issues and family of origin issues.
My focus is young adults 18+, college students and LGBTQ+ folx. I have extensive experience working with college students. I aim to support and guide those who are struggling with adjusting to college/young adulthood and coping with depression and anxiety. I also assist individuals who are working on strengthening their identity, exploring their sexuality and seeking change in relational patterns. Decreasing stigma around mental illness as well as suicide prevention and LGBTQ+ rights are important causes to me as an individual. I am an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. I am also a sex-positive therapist, who is not here to judge you. :)
Some of my specialties include depression, anxiety, relationships, attachment styles, assertiveness, identity development, sexuality, LGBTQ+ issues and family of origin issues.
My focus is young adults 18+, college students and LGBTQ+ folx. I have extensive experience working with college students. I aim to support and guide those who are struggling with adjusting to college/young adulthood and coping with depression and anxiety. I also assist individuals who are working on strengthening their identity, exploring their sexuality and seeking change in relational patterns. Decreasing stigma around mental illness as well as suicide prevention and LGBTQ+ rights are important causes to me as an individual. I am an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. I am also a sex-positive therapist, who is not here to judge you. :)
Megan Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
As a queer, gender nonbinary, neurodivergent, and size-inclusive person, I bring a unique perspective to therapy.
You feel stuck and don’t know what to do next, wishing you could stay in bed forever. What used to be easy now feels overwhelming. Your deepest fear is that you’re inherently bad, defective, "too much," unworthy, or unlovable. You might feel alone, isolated, frightened, angry, lost, or even enraged. If you’re queer, trans, gender nonbinary, neurodivergent, disabled, chronically ill, fat, or bigger-bodied, you’re welcome here. If you struggle with depression, anxiety, bereavement, disordered eating, or body image issues—no matter your age or if you’re seeking “outside help”—you belong. You are the expert on your own experience.
As a queer, gender nonbinary, neurodivergent, and size-inclusive person, I bring a unique perspective to therapy.
You feel stuck and don’t know what to do next, wishing you could stay in bed forever. What used to be easy now feels overwhelming. Your deepest fear is that you’re inherently bad, defective, "too much," unworthy, or unlovable. You might feel alone, isolated, frightened, angry, lost, or even enraged. If you’re queer, trans, gender nonbinary, neurodivergent, disabled, chronically ill, fat, or bigger-bodied, you’re welcome here. If you struggle with depression, anxiety, bereavement, disordered eating, or body image issues—no matter your age or if you’re seeking “outside help”—you belong. You are the expert on your own experience.
Elexia Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I use a variety of techniques including LGBT+ Affirmative Therapy and assessment to tailor treatment to your needs.
Looking for a therapist that is a part of the LBGTQ+ community? Do you want treatment that explores your concerns? I provide treatment that validates you and advocates for your needs. As a member of the LGBT+ community, I am passionate about my work. I also have a special interest in working with people that practice indigenous healing, Paganism, New Age practices, and Spiritualism.
I use a variety of techniques including LGBT+ Affirmative Therapy and assessment to tailor treatment to your needs.
Looking for a therapist that is a part of the LBGTQ+ community? Do you want treatment that explores your concerns? I provide treatment that validates you and advocates for your needs. As a member of the LGBT+ community, I am passionate about my work. I also have a special interest in working with people that practice indigenous healing, Paganism, New Age practices, and Spiritualism.
Rosie Zeolla Calle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The majority of society's mental health distress can be traced back to patriarchy, capitalism, racism, misogyny, transphobia, homophobia, and ableism.
I am a queer, neurodivergent therapist who is passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, including those who are navigating their sexuality and/or gender expression. My main area of focus is treating developmental and chronic trauma with EMDR, a clinically-proven, somatic trauma therapy. I am passionate about providing EMDR treatment accommodations for neurodiverse folx and I work collaboratively with clients to make the trauma work accessible.
The majority of society's mental health distress can be traced back to patriarchy, capitalism, racism, misogyny, transphobia, homophobia, and ableism.
I am a queer, neurodivergent therapist who is passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, including those who are navigating their sexuality and/or gender expression. My main area of focus is treating developmental and chronic trauma with EMDR, a clinically-proven, somatic trauma therapy. I am passionate about providing EMDR treatment accommodations for neurodiverse folx and I work collaboratively with clients to make the trauma work accessible.
I have worked for several years with teens, adults, first responders and LGBTQ+ folk work through trauma, limiting beliefs, life challenges, coming out, and witnessing the events related to first responders.
Currently Accepting New Clients: I help people who are going through life transitions work through the things that hold them back. If you feel like you just can't get out off a rut, maybe because you have a negative belief or experience that holds you back. If you the "not good enough" or like messages in your head, I can help. The fact is, you do deserve to live the life you want. I can help you work through these messages so you can leave them behind. I have been there myself. It's challenging to move forward sometimes, but it's so worth it, and you don't have to go it alone. I can. help Please feel free to reach out.
I have worked for several years with teens, adults, first responders and LGBTQ+ folk work through trauma, limiting beliefs, life challenges, coming out, and witnessing the events related to first responders.
Currently Accepting New Clients: I help people who are going through life transitions work through the things that hold them back. If you feel like you just can't get out off a rut, maybe because you have a negative belief or experience that holds you back. If you the "not good enough" or like messages in your head, I can help. The fact is, you do deserve to live the life you want. I can help you work through these messages so you can leave them behind. I have been there myself. It's challenging to move forward sometimes, but it's so worth it, and you don't have to go it alone. I can. help Please feel free to reach out.
Nicholas Cline
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MS
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Offering teIe-therapy & In Person Sessions for Individuals & Couples in San Luis Obispo. Both individuals and couples experience issues and challenges that prevent them from reaching their full potential. It is my goal to explore these with you and find ways to help cope, accept or overcome these. With couples we work on better communication skills, and strengthening the bond that you have together. I work with individuals that are experiencing anxiety and depression and other issues related to mental health. Ultimately I want you to succeed, I have additional training and experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Offering teIe-therapy & In Person Sessions for Individuals & Couples in San Luis Obispo. Both individuals and couples experience issues and challenges that prevent them from reaching their full potential. It is my goal to explore these with you and find ways to help cope, accept or overcome these. With couples we work on better communication skills, and strengthening the bond that you have together. I work with individuals that are experiencing anxiety and depression and other issues related to mental health. Ultimately I want you to succeed, I have additional training and experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Accepting new clients in-person or telehealth. English and Spanish services available. Welcome, congratulations for taking the first step in your journey to a better you. I enjoy working with teen and adult individuals who are struggling with a wide variety of problems such as depression, negative thoughts patterns, low self-esteem, guilt, anxiety, acculturation stress, cultural trauma/adjustment, grief, and struggles with life transitions. I am also passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Accepting new clients in-person or telehealth. English and Spanish services available. Welcome, congratulations for taking the first step in your journey to a better you. I enjoy working with teen and adult individuals who are struggling with a wide variety of problems such as depression, negative thoughts patterns, low self-esteem, guilt, anxiety, acculturation stress, cultural trauma/adjustment, grief, and struggles with life transitions. I am also passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Sarah Manetti
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
I am a non-binary, queer associate therapist. I have a background in working with neurodiverse, LGBTQ+, poly & plural populations in a breadth of areas from every day life, relationships, trauma, grief, identity & values exploration and self-advocacy.
I am a non-binary, queer associate therapist. I have a background in working with neurodiverse, LGBTQ+, poly & plural populations in a breadth of areas from every day life, relationships, trauma, grief, identity & values exploration and self-advocacy.
We are a queer woman-owned practice. Each of our therapists is committed to engaging in collaborative person-centered care with a focus on meeting our you where you're at to come alongside and walk this healing journey with you. We chose the name Thrive because that's what we want for you, to not just survive this life but to truly be a Thriving human. Additionally, many of our providers identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community and we are committed to serving those within our community.
We are a queer woman-owned practice. Each of our therapists is committed to engaging in collaborative person-centered care with a focus on meeting our you where you're at to come alongside and walk this healing journey with you. We chose the name Thrive because that's what we want for you, to not just survive this life but to truly be a Thriving human. Additionally, many of our providers identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community and we are committed to serving those within our community.
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She has worked with a variety of cultures and populations, including children and teens, the LGBT+ community, people with disabilities.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, hopeless or down? Now more than ever, people are questioning and exploring how they view themselves, others and the world. Therapy can help explore these difficult issues helping you find new solutions and perspective. Eliza provides a calm, nurturing and safe environment while challenging you to reach your greatest potential. She genuinely listens and gives each person individualized therapy tailored to their specific needs and experiences. Eliza uses collaborative therapeutic techniques to develop a more fulfilling thriving life experience.
She has worked with a variety of cultures and populations, including children and teens, the LGBT+ community, people with disabilities.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, hopeless or down? Now more than ever, people are questioning and exploring how they view themselves, others and the world. Therapy can help explore these difficult issues helping you find new solutions and perspective. Eliza provides a calm, nurturing and safe environment while challenging you to reach your greatest potential. She genuinely listens and gives each person individualized therapy tailored to their specific needs and experiences. Eliza uses collaborative therapeutic techniques to develop a more fulfilling thriving life experience.
Erin K O'Farrell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am open to any and all clients who are seeking therapy. I am LGBTQIA+ informed, good with people with attachment issues, teens, and women in menopause
I am open to any and all clients who are seeking therapy. I am LGBTQIA+ informed, good with people with attachment issues, teens, and women in menopause
Queer, and gender-fluid, I have extensive experience working with queer, trans, polyamorous, and kinky clients, who make up the bulk of my practice.
My clients seek a safe, non-judgmental, space where they can show up authentically, receive support navigating painful experiences, find ways to cope and manage distress, and to have an objective "sounding board." Often clients hope to process the impact that their experiences have had on them while identifying ways they can create changes that will allow them to live their lives in ways that are fulfilling, meaningful, and values-driven.
Queer, and gender-fluid, I have extensive experience working with queer, trans, polyamorous, and kinky clients, who make up the bulk of my practice.
My clients seek a safe, non-judgmental, space where they can show up authentically, receive support navigating painful experiences, find ways to cope and manage distress, and to have an objective "sounding board." Often clients hope to process the impact that their experiences have had on them while identifying ways they can create changes that will allow them to live their lives in ways that are fulfilling, meaningful, and values-driven.
I am accepting new patients. People are all unique and we strive to live a fulfilled life in which we can truly know ourselves, know peace, experience happiness and manage the cards that life deals us. Choosing a therapist means finding someone who can get you; will listen, care and work with you; and who knows their trade. My role is to be beside you; to hear and guide you in a judgment-free space as you navigate life and achieve your goals. I provide therapy to those 11 and up dealing with issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, Bipolar, Psychosis, LGBTQ+-related, personality disorders, sexual attraction & offending related.
I am accepting new patients. People are all unique and we strive to live a fulfilled life in which we can truly know ourselves, know peace, experience happiness and manage the cards that life deals us. Choosing a therapist means finding someone who can get you; will listen, care and work with you; and who knows their trade. My role is to be beside you; to hear and guide you in a judgment-free space as you navigate life and achieve your goals. I provide therapy to those 11 and up dealing with issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, Bipolar, Psychosis, LGBTQ+-related, personality disorders, sexual attraction & offending related.
Rebecca Panarra
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
When working together, my aim is to create an environment rich in compassion, curiosity and collaboration with my clients. I offer a diverse range of skills and experiences within a warm and welcoming environment. I enjoy working with individuals of diverse ages, couples, and families from various cultural backgrounds. I tailor a range of approaches to meet your unique needs and through these techniques, I empower clients to challenge unhelpful thought patterns, fostering personal growth and resilience.
Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
When working together, my aim is to create an environment rich in compassion, curiosity and collaboration with my clients. I offer a diverse range of skills and experiences within a warm and welcoming environment. I enjoy working with individuals of diverse ages, couples, and families from various cultural backgrounds. I tailor a range of approaches to meet your unique needs and through these techniques, I empower clients to challenge unhelpful thought patterns, fostering personal growth and resilience.
Mai Timberlake
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
I’m sex-positive, kink, poly, trans, and queer affirming.
I work with adults, teens, and couples struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, autism, life transitions, trauma, and relationship concerns. I'm LGBTQIA+ affirming and am passionate about viewing therapy through a cultural lens. My aim is to create a nonjudgemental, compassionate, and safe space for genuine understanding of your needs and goals. Have you been feeling stuck and unable to make the changes you desire? Are you ready to start shedding unhelpful narratives of your past? I help empower clients to finally take the steps they need to create the life they've always envisioned for themselves.
I’m sex-positive, kink, poly, trans, and queer affirming.
I work with adults, teens, and couples struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, autism, life transitions, trauma, and relationship concerns. I'm LGBTQIA+ affirming and am passionate about viewing therapy through a cultural lens. My aim is to create a nonjudgemental, compassionate, and safe space for genuine understanding of your needs and goals. Have you been feeling stuck and unable to make the changes you desire? Are you ready to start shedding unhelpful narratives of your past? I help empower clients to finally take the steps they need to create the life they've always envisioned for themselves.
Riley Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
You can expect sessions to be collaborative, trauma-informed, and LGBTQ+ affirming.
Accepting New Clients. Want to know how to support yourself better through life's inevitable challenges? Could you benefit from being kinder to yourself? Are you hoping to feel more present and embodied in your life? My practice helps clients build self-awareness, nurture self-compassion, reconnect to strengths, and identify tools to improve wellbeing.
You can expect sessions to be collaborative, trauma-informed, and LGBTQ+ affirming.
Accepting New Clients. Want to know how to support yourself better through life's inevitable challenges? Could you benefit from being kinder to yourself? Are you hoping to feel more present and embodied in your life? My practice helps clients build self-awareness, nurture self-compassion, reconnect to strengths, and identify tools to improve wellbeing.
Life often presents challenges, particularly in times of uncertainty. I firmly believe that each person's unique perspective, influenced by their individual core beliefs and background, significantly shapes how they approach these challenges. Recognizing and respecting the diversity of each client, along with their specific needs, is essential in developing an effective treatment plan. My professional experience includes working with diverse populations, including monolingual Spanish-speaking clients, members of the LGBTQ+ community, women experiencing postpartum depression, and survivors of domestic violence.
Life often presents challenges, particularly in times of uncertainty. I firmly believe that each person's unique perspective, influenced by their individual core beliefs and background, significantly shapes how they approach these challenges. Recognizing and respecting the diversity of each client, along with their specific needs, is essential in developing an effective treatment plan. My professional experience includes working with diverse populations, including monolingual Spanish-speaking clients, members of the LGBTQ+ community, women experiencing postpartum depression, and survivors of domestic violence.
Kristy Barrette
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, 85749
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+, Non-Binary, and Trans clients and their families, as well as individuals who may be exploring their multiple and intersecting identities.
What is it to exist in the current age? It sure can be hard, exhausting, and lonely at times. Perhaps that is why you're here. My name is Kristy Barrette (she/her). As a clinician, I believe that you have the ability to grow, learn, and better understand yourself and your loved ones. With this understanding, you can create meaningful changes that align with your needs and values. My role is to walk alongside you to help pave the way to more meaningful connections, more effective communication, healthier boundaries, increased safety, and an overall greater sense of well-being.
I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+, Non-Binary, and Trans clients and their families, as well as individuals who may be exploring their multiple and intersecting identities.
What is it to exist in the current age? It sure can be hard, exhausting, and lonely at times. Perhaps that is why you're here. My name is Kristy Barrette (she/her). As a clinician, I believe that you have the ability to grow, learn, and better understand yourself and your loved ones. With this understanding, you can create meaningful changes that align with your needs and values. My role is to walk alongside you to help pave the way to more meaningful connections, more effective communication, healthier boundaries, increased safety, and an overall greater sense of well-being.
See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo
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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.