LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Upland, CA

Photo of Simone McGee, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Simone McGee
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
My passion is working with BIPOC, the LGBTQIA+ community, marital affairs, family conflicts, parent coaching, and at-risk youth.
Kumusta! I am happy that you are here and ready to grow into the new you! It is time to reclaim your power back and be proud. I primarily focus on mindfulness in the therapy room and helping you learn to trust your intuition to make healthy and positive decisions. I will guide you on how to communicate with others and be emotionally expressive. I utilize a range of resources from activities in the therapy room to ground yourself, couple's activities to strengthen your relationship, family therapy conflict resolutions, positive affirmation work, or assigning homework to do outside of the therapy room to ensure change is happening.
My passion is working with BIPOC, the LGBTQIA+ community, marital affairs, family conflicts, parent coaching, and at-risk youth.
Kumusta! I am happy that you are here and ready to grow into the new you! It is time to reclaim your power back and be proud. I primarily focus on mindfulness in the therapy room and helping you learn to trust your intuition to make healthy and positive decisions. I will guide you on how to communicate with others and be emotionally expressive. I utilize a range of resources from activities in the therapy room to ground yourself, couple's activities to strengthen your relationship, family therapy conflict resolutions, positive affirmation work, or assigning homework to do outside of the therapy room to ensure change is happening.
(909) 316-8094 View (909) 316-8094
Photo of Cindy Medina, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Cindy Medina
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
I am passionate about offering support to BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent individuals.
Taking the step toward seeking support is a courageous decision. I am passionate about providing a safe space for others to heal, grow, and utilize useful tools to cope with life challenges. I am passionate about providing services that are culturally sensitive and aligned with each person's unique identity and experiences. My goal is to create a safe, affirming space where my clients can feel understood, empowered, and confident in their journey toward personal growth and self-discovery.
I am passionate about offering support to BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent individuals.
Taking the step toward seeking support is a courageous decision. I am passionate about providing a safe space for others to heal, grow, and utilize useful tools to cope with life challenges. I am passionate about providing services that are culturally sensitive and aligned with each person's unique identity and experiences. My goal is to create a safe, affirming space where my clients can feel understood, empowered, and confident in their journey toward personal growth and self-discovery.
(909) 746-7423 View (909) 746-7423
Photo of Jamie Roberts, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91784
Their specialties include neurodivergence, LGBTQIA+ community, teen and young adult transitions, and eating disorders.
ADHD and Autism Diagnostic Assessments for adults 18+ is my specialty. I believe in and support self diagnosis and recognize that there is often still a desire to have a mental health clinician confirm what you already suspect (Hello imposter syndrome). These assessments can be completed in person at our Rancho Cucamonga office or virtually for California residents. To learn more and schedule your assessment today, visit www.equilibriumcs.com/neurodivergent-assessment or message us here.
Their specialties include neurodivergence, LGBTQIA+ community, teen and young adult transitions, and eating disorders.
ADHD and Autism Diagnostic Assessments for adults 18+ is my specialty. I believe in and support self diagnosis and recognize that there is often still a desire to have a mental health clinician confirm what you already suspect (Hello imposter syndrome). These assessments can be completed in person at our Rancho Cucamonga office or virtually for California residents. To learn more and schedule your assessment today, visit www.equilibriumcs.com/neurodivergent-assessment or message us here.
(909) 414-0803 View (909) 414-0803
Photo of Ted Coleman, PhD, MS, LPCC, FACHA
Ted Coleman
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, MS, LPCC, FACHA
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
Please consider a free consultation if you believe you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, loss and grief, personal trauma, post-traumatic stress, anger management, relationship issues, separation or divorce, self-esteem, parent effectiveness, or personal transitions, e.
A Greek philosopher told us the only thing constant is change; it seems life is full of changes and challenges. When we're confident and strong, we usually adapt fairly well to stresses and struggles. It's different, though, when unpleasant emotions or complex issues seem to drain practically all the energy we can muster just to get through the day. Feeling overly confused or frustrated, maybe even lost or helpless, might mean it's time to reach out for help to identify, work through, and manage whatever is getting in the way of our happiness and peace of mind. I might be just the person who can do that for you.
Please consider a free consultation if you believe you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, loss and grief, personal trauma, post-traumatic stress, anger management, relationship issues, separation or divorce, self-esteem, parent effectiveness, or personal transitions, e.
A Greek philosopher told us the only thing constant is change; it seems life is full of changes and challenges. When we're confident and strong, we usually adapt fairly well to stresses and struggles. It's different, though, when unpleasant emotions or complex issues seem to drain practically all the energy we can muster just to get through the day. Feeling overly confused or frustrated, maybe even lost or helpless, might mean it's time to reach out for help to identify, work through, and manage whatever is getting in the way of our happiness and peace of mind. I might be just the person who can do that for you.
(909) 318-1480 View (909) 318-1480
Photo of Clarissa Gutierrez, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Clarissa Gutierrez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming.
Welcome. I am truly glad that you are here. You are taking the first step to begin your self-discovery journey. Life can sometimes be challenging and in those times, show up for yourself and allow me to accompany you. Together we will discover your inner resiliency and work collaboratively to work on your goals, whatever they may be.
My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming.
Welcome. I am truly glad that you are here. You are taking the first step to begin your self-discovery journey. Life can sometimes be challenging and in those times, show up for yourself and allow me to accompany you. Together we will discover your inner resiliency and work collaboratively to work on your goals, whatever they may be.
(909) 610-1273 View (909) 610-1273
Photo of Melissa Lamoureux, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Lamoureux
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786  (Online Only)
I believe in working collaboratively with clients, empowering you to explore your life on a deeper level, helping you discover how you can create the life you want, and supporting you as you begin taking those steps. My approach to therapy can be described as individualized and eclectic as I draw from various approaches to best support you and what works for you. I have experience in a wide variety of settings and working with many different populations from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I believe in working collaboratively with clients, empowering you to explore your life on a deeper level, helping you discover how you can create the life you want, and supporting you as you begin taking those steps. My approach to therapy can be described as individualized and eclectic as I draw from various approaches to best support you and what works for you. I have experience in a wide variety of settings and working with many different populations from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(626) 722-5741 View (626) 722-5741
Photo of Caitlyn Kiraly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlyn Kiraly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Caity Kiraly and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both California and Colorado (CA License 122145, CO License 09930648). My goal is to provide you with a safe and non-judgmental environment for you to process challenging emotions and life circumstances. My areas of focus are eating disorder treatment/ recovery, LGBTQIA+ challenges and stressors, athletes or former athletes navigating performance issues and retirement, depression, anxiety, and general life/ relationship stressors.
Hello, my name is Caity Kiraly and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both California and Colorado (CA License 122145, CO License 09930648). My goal is to provide you with a safe and non-judgmental environment for you to process challenging emotions and life circumstances. My areas of focus are eating disorder treatment/ recovery, LGBTQIA+ challenges and stressors, athletes or former athletes navigating performance issues and retirement, depression, anxiety, and general life/ relationship stressors.
(619) 996-0473 View (619) 996-0473
Photo of Hope Flores, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hope Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91784
I love working with individuals who are: artists, creatives, and those with unconventional careers or passions; members of the LGBTQIA+ community or anyone questioning their identity ; those in diverse relationship structures, like CNM or polyamory, and those facing life transitions.
Quirky, Creative, or Queer? Let's Navigate Life Together. I specialize in working with individuals who identify as quirky, creative, LGBTQIA+, or those who simply don’t fit into conventional boxes. Whether you're navigating identity exploration, life transitions, or struggling with relationships and self-acceptance, I'm here to help you feel understood, validated, and supported. I approach therapy with an open mind and a dash of humor because growth doesn’t have to be all serious. My practice embraces a judgment-free zone where your authentic self is always welcome.
I love working with individuals who are: artists, creatives, and those with unconventional careers or passions; members of the LGBTQIA+ community or anyone questioning their identity ; those in diverse relationship structures, like CNM or polyamory, and those facing life transitions.
Quirky, Creative, or Queer? Let's Navigate Life Together. I specialize in working with individuals who identify as quirky, creative, LGBTQIA+, or those who simply don’t fit into conventional boxes. Whether you're navigating identity exploration, life transitions, or struggling with relationships and self-acceptance, I'm here to help you feel understood, validated, and supported. I approach therapy with an open mind and a dash of humor because growth doesn’t have to be all serious. My practice embraces a judgment-free zone where your authentic self is always welcome.
(909) 403-5942 View (909) 403-5942
Photo of Michele Putini - Be Authentic Family Therapy (Michele Putini), MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Be Authentic Family Therapy (Michele Putini)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
Feeling unseen, not heard, alone & isolated and missing the connection with others? You are not alone. If you are feeling lost/disconnected and unable to be fully authentic in your own life, I can help. When I felt alone & hopeless & disconnected, I turned to therapy & it profoundly changed my life. I became a therapist to help empower those that feel hopeless, alone & scared, gain confidence, strength & self-worth. If you are tired, frustrated & need change, let me guide you to discover your power, your personal truth. Asking for help is a sign of strength. Be brave, call for a free consultation. You matter. Let's find hope.
Feeling unseen, not heard, alone & isolated and missing the connection with others? You are not alone. If you are feeling lost/disconnected and unable to be fully authentic in your own life, I can help. When I felt alone & hopeless & disconnected, I turned to therapy & it profoundly changed my life. I became a therapist to help empower those that feel hopeless, alone & scared, gain confidence, strength & self-worth. If you are tired, frustrated & need change, let me guide you to discover your power, your personal truth. Asking for help is a sign of strength. Be brave, call for a free consultation. You matter. Let's find hope.
(909) 341-4506 x700 View (909) 341-4506 x700
Photo of Sheree Earle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheree Earle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91784  (Online Only)
It is my experience that the best results come when a therapist and client work as a team, focusing on specific goals. It is the therapeutic alliance that yields healing and movement towards accomplishing goals. It is essential that you find a psychotherapist with whom you feel comfortable discussing the important details of your life.
It is my experience that the best results come when a therapist and client work as a team, focusing on specific goals. It is the therapeutic alliance that yields healing and movement towards accomplishing goals. It is essential that you find a psychotherapist with whom you feel comfortable discussing the important details of your life.
(909) 708-4014 View (909) 708-4014
Photo of Kevin Pham, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kevin Pham
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
I address difficulties with self-love, depression, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions by processing and understanding our "truths.
Life is a compilation of panoramic photographs. when our images are torn, we attempt to tape them back together, often fixating on the imperfections. Well, let’s step back for a moment — have you ever retaken a photo and thought, “Wait, this photo looks better than the last one”? What if that was possible for our lives, too? The key is repositioning ourselves and examining our camera's point of view. I dare you to be the photographer of your life. I want to see your photo album. You do not need to edit your photographs to make yourself look more appealing—trust me, you are already enough.
I address difficulties with self-love, depression, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions by processing and understanding our "truths.
Life is a compilation of panoramic photographs. when our images are torn, we attempt to tape them back together, often fixating on the imperfections. Well, let’s step back for a moment — have you ever retaken a photo and thought, “Wait, this photo looks better than the last one”? What if that was possible for our lives, too? The key is repositioning ourselves and examining our camera's point of view. I dare you to be the photographer of your life. I want to see your photo album. You do not need to edit your photographs to make yourself look more appealing—trust me, you are already enough.
(909) 646-4635 View (909) 646-4635
Photo of Noelle Seibert, MA , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Noelle Seibert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
Needing a safe and non-judgemental space to talk? Having trouble with your emotions or relationships? Having issues sorting through past trauma? I bring a genuinely compassionate presence in therapy. I work collaboratively with my clients to best understand them, build trust, and provide the best support and therapy possible. It’s always been a passion of mine to help others in their healing and self-discovery journey. My ability to teach, listen, and encourage my clients has provided improvement in coping and functioning in life. My goal is to provide a safe place, a few laughs, and to ensure your desired growth in therapy.
Needing a safe and non-judgemental space to talk? Having trouble with your emotions or relationships? Having issues sorting through past trauma? I bring a genuinely compassionate presence in therapy. I work collaboratively with my clients to best understand them, build trust, and provide the best support and therapy possible. It’s always been a passion of mine to help others in their healing and self-discovery journey. My ability to teach, listen, and encourage my clients has provided improvement in coping and functioning in life. My goal is to provide a safe place, a few laughs, and to ensure your desired growth in therapy.
(909) 830-9039 View (909) 830-9039
Photo of Wendy L Whitmore - Truth Healing & Evolution Counseling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Truth Healing & Evolution Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) & clinical life coach, owner of Truth, Healing & Evolution Counseling Services and WLW HEALING HOUSE, and founder of T.H.E. iLove Me Experiences and “My Warrior Life” movement. With over 17 years of experience, I work to provide clients with safe spaces to freely express themselves, encourage them to “stretch & grow” and teaches them the coping skills necessary to assist in their healing. I Am Passionate About: Normalizing Radical SelfCare and teaching clients about their WHOLE Being; focusing on the connections and relationships between their Spirit, Soul, Mind and Body.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) & clinical life coach, owner of Truth, Healing & Evolution Counseling Services and WLW HEALING HOUSE, and founder of T.H.E. iLove Me Experiences and “My Warrior Life” movement. With over 17 years of experience, I work to provide clients with safe spaces to freely express themselves, encourage them to “stretch & grow” and teaches them the coping skills necessary to assist in their healing. I Am Passionate About: Normalizing Radical SelfCare and teaching clients about their WHOLE Being; focusing on the connections and relationships between their Spirit, Soul, Mind and Body.
(909) 512-6521 View (909) 512-6521
Photo of Dr. Andrea Aoun, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Andrea Aoun
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91784  (Online Only)
Are you a parent who is struggling with understanding and relating to your child? Are you staying up at night, wondering why the behaviors of your child are so difficult and challenging to manage? Do you feel burnt out, depleted, frustrated, helpless and hopeless? Do you feel like no one could possibly understand what you're going through? Do you wonder where you went wrong or what you could have done differently for things to change? I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in infant, child and family mental health services. I have over 12 years working in child mental health settings.
Are you a parent who is struggling with understanding and relating to your child? Are you staying up at night, wondering why the behaviors of your child are so difficult and challenging to manage? Do you feel burnt out, depleted, frustrated, helpless and hopeless? Do you feel like no one could possibly understand what you're going through? Do you wonder where you went wrong or what you could have done differently for things to change? I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in infant, child and family mental health services. I have over 12 years working in child mental health settings.
(909) 490-4067 View (909) 490-4067
Photo of (Mysti) Michelle Pruett, PhD, MA, MMsc, BA, BMsc, Pastoral Counselor
(Mysti) Michelle Pruett
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, MA, MMsc, BA, BMsc
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91784
Waitlist for new clients
specializing in Metaphysical Counseling, I use Spiritual Mind Treatment procedures that transcend dimensional time & space as well as language & culture i.
If you have a major suffering/unshakable adversity, this may be an archetypal encounter or "Dark Night of the Soul" period preceding your spiritual consciousness evolution. You may have an unfulfilled soul contract & working with me can be a key step in understanding terms of any such contracts & how to exert your conscious free will over them NOW. Most contracts are relational in nature & primarily include (not limited to) twin flame connections, dark twin flame entanglements, parent-child agreements, birth chart conditions, congenital conditions, past-life karmic carry-over, future action karmic retrograde, energetic patterns,etc.
specializing in Metaphysical Counseling, I use Spiritual Mind Treatment procedures that transcend dimensional time & space as well as language & culture i.
If you have a major suffering/unshakable adversity, this may be an archetypal encounter or "Dark Night of the Soul" period preceding your spiritual consciousness evolution. You may have an unfulfilled soul contract & working with me can be a key step in understanding terms of any such contracts & how to exert your conscious free will over them NOW. Most contracts are relational in nature & primarily include (not limited to) twin flame connections, dark twin flame entanglements, parent-child agreements, birth chart conditions, congenital conditions, past-life karmic carry-over, future action karmic retrograde, energetic patterns,etc.
(909) 296-4895 View (909) 296-4895
Photo of Allen E. Lipscomb - Dr. Allen E. Lipscomb, PsyD, LCSW, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Allen E. Lipscomb, PsyD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Lipscomb has his doctorate in psychology with a clinical emphasis in marriage, family and child psychotherapy. Dr. Lipscomb is a licensed clinical social worker who provides psychotherapy, counseling and coaching services. He provides services to individuals, couples, children/youth and families. He specializes in areas such as: Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, and Trauma. Ultimately, he provides an affirming, culturally responsive, and anti-oppressive therapeutic environment for individuals to grow and thrive.
Dr. Lipscomb has his doctorate in psychology with a clinical emphasis in marriage, family and child psychotherapy. Dr. Lipscomb is a licensed clinical social worker who provides psychotherapy, counseling and coaching services. He provides services to individuals, couples, children/youth and families. He specializes in areas such as: Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, and Trauma. Ultimately, he provides an affirming, culturally responsive, and anti-oppressive therapeutic environment for individuals to grow and thrive.
(909) 340-3458 View (909) 340-3458
Photo of Ashley Bauman, PsyD, Psychologist
Ashley Bauman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786  (Online Only)
Just like pulling a weed from the root prevents it from growing back, I believe that therapy is most effective when we get to the root of problems and address the core issues contributing to your symptoms. I am here to build your insight into issues, help you process how and where they started, and give you the tools to prevent your symptoms from coming back once they're gone.
Just like pulling a weed from the root prevents it from growing back, I believe that therapy is most effective when we get to the root of problems and address the core issues contributing to your symptoms. I am here to build your insight into issues, help you process how and where they started, and give you the tools to prevent your symptoms from coming back once they're gone.
(909) 316-5503 View (909) 316-5503
Photo of Michelle Dazalla, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Michelle Dazalla
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
My goal is to create a safe space for clients during sessions by being an observant, nonjudgmental, and empathetic therapist. My hope is to help clients with their journey to become mentally healthy, mindful, and self-aware for a new lifestyle that is encouraging and fulfilling to them. My philosophy is “Aim Small to Hit Big”, which means to be present in the moment and set small attainable goals for yourself to build upon your successes and celebrate accomplishments one goal at a time.
My goal is to create a safe space for clients during sessions by being an observant, nonjudgmental, and empathetic therapist. My hope is to help clients with their journey to become mentally healthy, mindful, and self-aware for a new lifestyle that is encouraging and fulfilling to them. My philosophy is “Aim Small to Hit Big”, which means to be present in the moment and set small attainable goals for yourself to build upon your successes and celebrate accomplishments one goal at a time.
(909) 639-6803 View (909) 639-6803
Photo of Doug G. McKown - Samaritan Counseling Center, PsyD, Psychologist
Samaritan Counseling Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
Our caring counselors will help you overcome issues that hurt or hinder personal growth, & aid in the healing of wounds that often limit your ability to thrive, be whole, & fulfill your purpose in life. We serve people across the age range looking for help with: relationship issues, depression, anxiety, co-parenting, trauma, PTSD, grief, child abuse, parenting, domestic violence, addiction, anger management, nurturing healthy intimacy, & many other mental and behavioral health issues. We also provide in-home behavior intervention services and parent training for families of children with developmental disabilities.
Our caring counselors will help you overcome issues that hurt or hinder personal growth, & aid in the healing of wounds that often limit your ability to thrive, be whole, & fulfill your purpose in life. We serve people across the age range looking for help with: relationship issues, depression, anxiety, co-parenting, trauma, PTSD, grief, child abuse, parenting, domestic violence, addiction, anger management, nurturing healthy intimacy, & many other mental and behavioral health issues. We also provide in-home behavior intervention services and parent training for families of children with developmental disabilities.
(909) 442-4841 View (909) 442-4841
Photo of April Solange Wozencroft, LMFT, DMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
April Solange Wozencroft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, DMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
Waitlist for new clients
It is a vulnerable thing to seek help and an act of courage. My experience has been with adults and adolescents. I have experience assisting men and women with acute Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Drug and Alcohol Addiction, and Eating Disorders. My experience does encompass family therapy in addition to couple's therapy. I have worked with at risk youth that struggle with ADHD, ADD, Autism, Oppositional Defiance, Addiction, Conduct Disorders, Anxiety, and Mood Disorder with and without psychotic features. I know that I can help allow me to prove it even if it comes in the form of another referral.
It is a vulnerable thing to seek help and an act of courage. My experience has been with adults and adolescents. I have experience assisting men and women with acute Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Drug and Alcohol Addiction, and Eating Disorders. My experience does encompass family therapy in addition to couple's therapy. I have worked with at risk youth that struggle with ADHD, ADD, Autism, Oppositional Defiance, Addiction, Conduct Disorders, Anxiety, and Mood Disorder with and without psychotic features. I know that I can help allow me to prove it even if it comes in the form of another referral.
(909) 323-0173 View (909) 323-0173
1
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.