Photo of Eric Llorente, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eric Llorente
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Wilmington, CA 90744
Hello! My name is Eric Llorente, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I look forward to helping in your journey and helping make the changes you would like to make in your life! I have various experiences in community mental health with severe mental health disorders such as major depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. I have a passion for supporting the LGBTQIA+ community as I have background work in gender and sexuality. I enjoy working with all clients from all walks of life.
Hello! My name is Eric Llorente, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I look forward to helping in your journey and helping make the changes you would like to make in your life! I have various experiences in community mental health with severe mental health disorders such as major depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. I have a passion for supporting the LGBTQIA+ community as I have background work in gender and sexuality. I enjoy working with all clients from all walks of life.
(562) 275-8369 View (562) 275-8369
Photo of Joanne Talbot, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joanne Talbot
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wilmington, CA 90744
I graduated from the University of Luton in England and continued her education, earning her Master’s Degree in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy from the University of Phoenix. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with a background in crisis intervention. I began my career as an MFT, working in an emergency shelter program for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking with substance abuse and severe mental health issues. I provided individual and group therapy in residential and outpatient transitional housing programs.
I graduated from the University of Luton in England and continued her education, earning her Master’s Degree in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy from the University of Phoenix. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with a background in crisis intervention. I began my career as an MFT, working in an emergency shelter program for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking with substance abuse and severe mental health issues. I provided individual and group therapy in residential and outpatient transitional housing programs.
(408) 668-0391 View (408) 668-0391

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lauren Armstrong - OC Teen Center- Adolescent and Teen Mental Health, PsyD, Psychologist
OC Teen Center- Adolescent and Teen Mental Health
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
If your child has depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal ideation, or trans/identity issues please call us.
Dr. Lauren Armstrong is a highly passionate licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Director with a PsyD from Pepperdine University, and has been working with children and adolescents for the past ten years. She is an expert in working with challenging psychological presentations such as trauma, self harm, mood changes, aggression, and other unsafe or maladaptive coping mechanisms. Dr. Lauren always believes in her patients, even when everyone else has stopped believing in them. She never loses hope, and tirelessly works with patients and their families on improving their relationships, coping skills, and positive change.
If your child has depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal ideation, or trans/identity issues please call us.
Dr. Lauren Armstrong is a highly passionate licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Director with a PsyD from Pepperdine University, and has been working with children and adolescents for the past ten years. She is an expert in working with challenging psychological presentations such as trauma, self harm, mood changes, aggression, and other unsafe or maladaptive coping mechanisms. Dr. Lauren always believes in her patients, even when everyone else has stopped believing in them. She never loses hope, and tirelessly works with patients and their families on improving their relationships, coping skills, and positive change.
(714) 646-1580 View (714) 646-1580
Photo of Rina Varughese, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rina Varughese
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lawndale, CA 90260
Rina Varughese is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2013. Rina has experience with pain management, anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ population, and works from relational attachment. Outside of work, Rina enjoys guitar, ballroom, circuit training, and gun ranges.
Rina Varughese is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2013. Rina has experience with pain management, anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ population, and works from relational attachment. Outside of work, Rina enjoys guitar, ballroom, circuit training, and gun ranges.
(310) 356-0197 View (310) 356-0197
Photo of Celeste Pietrusza, PhD, Psychologist
Celeste Pietrusza
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90804  (Online Only)
I welcome folx from the LGBTQIA+ as well as BDSM/kink and ENM communities in my practice.
Life presents many challenges and struggles and sometimes, it may feel, too little time to voice complex emotions. Yet, an exploration of the nuances of one’s history, relationships, dreams, and desires can help alleviate suffering and increase flexibility in the present moment. Therapy, I believe, can provide this space to become, to play, feel, speak. My integrative approach holds space for family of origin, intergenerational, intersectional and broader social-cultural dynamics.
I welcome folx from the LGBTQIA+ as well as BDSM/kink and ENM communities in my practice.
Life presents many challenges and struggles and sometimes, it may feel, too little time to voice complex emotions. Yet, an exploration of the nuances of one’s history, relationships, dreams, and desires can help alleviate suffering and increase flexibility in the present moment. Therapy, I believe, can provide this space to become, to play, feel, speak. My integrative approach holds space for family of origin, intergenerational, intersectional and broader social-cultural dynamics.
(646) 969-3475 View (646) 969-3475
Photo of Joe Pelzman, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joe Pelzman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
I have considerable experience working in the LGBTQ community.
I use a variety of practices and therapies, including: EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Informed Therapy. My process is always to ask you, the client, what it is you want, what would that look like, and what is in your way. Then we collaborate to get you there!
I have considerable experience working in the LGBTQ community.
I use a variety of practices and therapies, including: EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Informed Therapy. My process is always to ask you, the client, what it is you want, what would that look like, and what is in your way. Then we collaborate to get you there!
(213) 344-5766 View (213) 344-5766
Photo of Alton Carswell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alton Carswell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has worked with various groups and clients. If you are looking for a therapist that will listen and acknowledge your unique perspective you don't have to look any further. I have 10 years of experience working with singles, couples, military, LGBTQ, people of color, undocumented immigrants from various countries and even inmates. In addition to my hours spent in working with varying communities, I have been highly involved as alumni from Antioch University in Los Angeles and as a current doctoral student in media psychology at Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has worked with various groups and clients. If you are looking for a therapist that will listen and acknowledge your unique perspective you don't have to look any further. I have 10 years of experience working with singles, couples, military, LGBTQ, people of color, undocumented immigrants from various countries and even inmates. In addition to my hours spent in working with varying communities, I have been highly involved as alumni from Antioch University in Los Angeles and as a current doctoral student in media psychology at Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara.
(562) 454-1773 View (562) 454-1773
Photo of Sydney Woodward, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sydney Woodward
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712  (Online Only)
As a therapist I primarily work with individuals and couples around relationships, intimacy, self esteem, and self worth. Many of my clients are struggling with depression, anxiety, and concerns about self esteem and body image. I use a feminist lens in my work, meaning that I understand our mental health in the context of the oppressive systems and social constructs that impact us, such as race, sexual orientation, and gender. The majority of my clients are women, women of color, and/or members of the LGBTQ+ community. I especially welcoming queer, polyamorous, and kinky individuals and couples to reach out!
As a therapist I primarily work with individuals and couples around relationships, intimacy, self esteem, and self worth. Many of my clients are struggling with depression, anxiety, and concerns about self esteem and body image. I use a feminist lens in my work, meaning that I understand our mental health in the context of the oppressive systems and social constructs that impact us, such as race, sexual orientation, and gender. The majority of my clients are women, women of color, and/or members of the LGBTQ+ community. I especially welcoming queer, polyamorous, and kinky individuals and couples to reach out!
(310) 591-3156 View (310) 591-3156
Photo of Esther Loewen, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Esther Loewen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90001  (Online Only)
As a transgender woman with an intimate history in conservative Christianity, I know what it's like to survive, as well as to thrive.
Perhaps my best quality is my ability to meet individuals where they are, acknowledging and respecting their unique perspectives and experiences. There is great power in safe and non-judgmental spaces where people can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of rejection. My commitment to helping people on their own terms is at the heart of my therapeutic philosophy. Therapy is collaborative. As a compassionate guide, a seasoned listener, and a tenaciously courageous ally, I see myself as a partner on your journey toward self-discovery and well-being.
As a transgender woman with an intimate history in conservative Christianity, I know what it's like to survive, as well as to thrive.
Perhaps my best quality is my ability to meet individuals where they are, acknowledging and respecting their unique perspectives and experiences. There is great power in safe and non-judgmental spaces where people can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of rejection. My commitment to helping people on their own terms is at the heart of my therapeutic philosophy. Therapy is collaborative. As a compassionate guide, a seasoned listener, and a tenaciously courageous ally, I see myself as a partner on your journey toward self-discovery and well-being.
(951) 899-0521 View (951) 899-0521
Photo of Jesselyn S Fernandez, MS, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jesselyn S Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
I am a Filipina-American LGBTQIA+ affirming Associate Marriage & Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor supervised by Aaron Quiroz, LMFT 113915, with Modern Life Solutions. I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities to explore their mental health and well-being. My approach is strength-based, rooted in empathy, cultural awareness, and client-centered care. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, or identity exploration, I am committed to help you navigate your true authentic self.
I am a Filipina-American LGBTQIA+ affirming Associate Marriage & Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor supervised by Aaron Quiroz, LMFT 113915, with Modern Life Solutions. I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities to explore their mental health and well-being. My approach is strength-based, rooted in empathy, cultural awareness, and client-centered care. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, or identity exploration, I am committed to help you navigate your true authentic self.
(657) 571-1245 View (657) 571-1245
Photo of Lenwood Valentino Patterson, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lenwood Valentino Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Waitlist for new clients
I can assist you in overcoming barriers to living up to your full potential by exploring together (1) What are these barriers and (2) How we can heal identified specific barriers. I have overcome specific challenges in my personal life; which is evidence of how I not only have the academic experience, but also the personal experience to assist you in becoming all we know you are meant to be! My primary client base has been working with Addictions, primarily with the LGBTQ communities. I also can assist clients with extensive Traumas integrate healing into what has been an all encompassing devastation of existence.
I can assist you in overcoming barriers to living up to your full potential by exploring together (1) What are these barriers and (2) How we can heal identified specific barriers. I have overcome specific challenges in my personal life; which is evidence of how I not only have the academic experience, but also the personal experience to assist you in becoming all we know you are meant to be! My primary client base has been working with Addictions, primarily with the LGBTQ communities. I also can assist clients with extensive Traumas integrate healing into what has been an all encompassing devastation of existence.
(562) 566-3515 View (562) 566-3515
Photo of Leonidas Gkimisis, LPCC
Leonidas Gkimisis
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
As an LGBTQ-friendly psychotherapist with a diverse client base, my ideal client seeks growth amidst life transitions, emotional challenges, or relationship issues. They need an inclusive, understanding space for self-discovery and acceptance, and strategies for resilience. They aim for emotional stability, authentic self-expression, and improved relationships. My clients want to feel seen, live authentically, and build a supportive network. I guide them towards these goals with empathy and expertise.
As an LGBTQ-friendly psychotherapist with a diverse client base, my ideal client seeks growth amidst life transitions, emotional challenges, or relationship issues. They need an inclusive, understanding space for self-discovery and acceptance, and strategies for resilience. They aim for emotional stability, authentic self-expression, and improved relationships. My clients want to feel seen, live authentically, and build a supportive network. I guide them towards these goals with empathy and expertise.
(657) 571-2758 View (657) 571-2758
Photo of Odette Boyd, PhD, Psychological Associate
Odette Boyd
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90745  (Online Only)
Breathe, you are not alone. I'm here to listen and assist you with the issues you are experiencing. I am passionate about helping people learn to cope with and overcome the concerns hindering their lives. I have learned that a better outcome is possible no matter the circumstances. I love to assist teens and college-age students who suffer from depression and anxiety. My specialty also includes the LGBTQ community (helping parents and teens cope), adult depression, anxiety, and couples counseling. Christian counseling is also a path I offer for those seeking a Faith-led path. Let's start this new experience now! You've got this!
Breathe, you are not alone. I'm here to listen and assist you with the issues you are experiencing. I am passionate about helping people learn to cope with and overcome the concerns hindering their lives. I have learned that a better outcome is possible no matter the circumstances. I love to assist teens and college-age students who suffer from depression and anxiety. My specialty also includes the LGBTQ community (helping parents and teens cope), adult depression, anxiety, and couples counseling. Christian counseling is also a path I offer for those seeking a Faith-led path. Let's start this new experience now! You've got this!
(760) 616-5820 View (760) 616-5820
Photo of Bianca Dancy, Bianca Dancy, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bianca Dancy
Marriage & Family Therapist, Bianca Dancy, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803  (Online Only)
I work with folks experiencing anxiety and depression, dealing with stress and burnout, working to build healthy relationships, accommodating neurodivergence, and navigating complex trauma. I am a queer therapist and have extensive experience supporting LGBTQIA+ folks and their loved ones. I also support those recovering from eating disorders at the outpatient level of care.
I work with folks experiencing anxiety and depression, dealing with stress and burnout, working to build healthy relationships, accommodating neurodivergence, and navigating complex trauma. I am a queer therapist and have extensive experience supporting LGBTQIA+ folks and their loved ones. I also support those recovering from eating disorders at the outpatient level of care.
(562) 837-2248 View (562) 837-2248
Photo of Melissa Bryant, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
I'm a Social Worker licensed to practice in the states of Massachusetts and California trained in treating anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, life transitions, trauma, grief & loss. I am a strong advocate for social justice issues and have a commitment to working with marginalized communities over my 10+ years in the social services field. I have acquired specialized training in working with LGBTQ+ and Aging folks.
I'm a Social Worker licensed to practice in the states of Massachusetts and California trained in treating anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, life transitions, trauma, grief & loss. I am a strong advocate for social justice issues and have a commitment to working with marginalized communities over my 10+ years in the social services field. I have acquired specialized training in working with LGBTQ+ and Aging folks.
(657) 250-7952 View (657) 250-7952
Photo of Sarah Brock Chavez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Brock Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808  (Online Only)
I identify as a queer, femme, Chicana therapist. I provide Psychotherapy that is Intersectional and Trauma-informed treatment. Combining techniques of traditional Psychodynamic Therapy as well as Somatic Therapy together we investigate your past and what is happening currently in your body (physical pain, ailments, sensations) in relation to environmental triggers (systemic racism, queer & trans-phobia, sexism, micro-aggressions), as well as attachment styles that inform your core beliefs to get you to a place of a fully developed and embodied sense of self and well being.
I identify as a queer, femme, Chicana therapist. I provide Psychotherapy that is Intersectional and Trauma-informed treatment. Combining techniques of traditional Psychodynamic Therapy as well as Somatic Therapy together we investigate your past and what is happening currently in your body (physical pain, ailments, sensations) in relation to environmental triggers (systemic racism, queer & trans-phobia, sexism, micro-aggressions), as well as attachment styles that inform your core beliefs to get you to a place of a fully developed and embodied sense of self and well being.
(424) 377-4514 View (424) 377-4514
Photo of Alejandra Luna, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alejandra Luna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
As non-binary and trans folx we often find ourselves wondering "where do I belong in this world?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we dont feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder when its going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just don't get it. We really want someone who can connect to us &make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
As non-binary and trans folx we often find ourselves wondering "where do I belong in this world?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we dont feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder when its going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just don't get it. We really want someone who can connect to us &make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
(951) 262-7917 View (951) 262-7917
Photo of Jonathan Boland, LCSW, BCD, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Boland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, MPH
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814  (Online Only)
I work with all populations, but I specialize in trauma, EMDR, sexuality, and LGBTQ.
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you feel like a prisoner of your past? Have traumatic events taken over your life? You're not alone. Life doesn’t have to be this way. I can guide you through the transformation of becoming who you were meant to be, stepping fully into your joy. I'll give you the courage you need to be your true authentic self, always. I’ve helped hundreds of people just like you radically transform their lives, including those healing from trauma and people who desire a healthier sexual relationship with themselves and with others. I’m passionate about assisting others reach their full potential.
I work with all populations, but I specialize in trauma, EMDR, sexuality, and LGBTQ.
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you feel like a prisoner of your past? Have traumatic events taken over your life? You're not alone. Life doesn’t have to be this way. I can guide you through the transformation of becoming who you were meant to be, stepping fully into your joy. I'll give you the courage you need to be your true authentic self, always. I’ve helped hundreds of people just like you radically transform their lives, including those healing from trauma and people who desire a healthier sexual relationship with themselves and with others. I’m passionate about assisting others reach their full potential.
(310) 742-8451 View (310) 742-8451
Photo of Haley O'Bryan, CPA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Haley O'Bryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, CPA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803  (Online Only)
If you're a member of the queer community, a neurodivergent human, and/or living and loving polyamorously, I want to help you see the beauty in your differences. Finding how to live your best life when you're going against the grain can be challenging - let me help make it a little easier! I am also uniquely equipped to help you walk through grief in its many forms, whether it be through a breakup, a death, or a major life change. Regardless of what route we take, I'll walk beside you and help you find the answers you've been searching for.
If you're a member of the queer community, a neurodivergent human, and/or living and loving polyamorously, I want to help you see the beauty in your differences. Finding how to live your best life when you're going against the grain can be challenging - let me help make it a little easier! I am also uniquely equipped to help you walk through grief in its many forms, whether it be through a breakup, a death, or a major life change. Regardless of what route we take, I'll walk beside you and help you find the answers you've been searching for.
(949) 806-5987 View (949) 806-5987
Photo of Emily (Lee) Goldstein, ASW
Emily (Lee) Goldstein
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am deeply committed to serving my community and creating a space where my clients feel seen, heard, and valued.
Hello, my name is Lee and I look forward to connecting with you. Taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting, but it can also be profoundly transformative. As someone who has experienced the impact of therapy firsthand, I understand its power to unlock new possibilities and pave the way for authentic living. In our sessions, we'll work together to navigate your past traumas, heal old wounds, and empower you to shape your present and future according to your desires.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am deeply committed to serving my community and creating a space where my clients feel seen, heard, and valued.
Hello, my name is Lee and I look forward to connecting with you. Taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting, but it can also be profoundly transformative. As someone who has experienced the impact of therapy firsthand, I understand its power to unlock new possibilities and pave the way for authentic living. In our sessions, we'll work together to navigate your past traumas, heal old wounds, and empower you to shape your present and future according to your desires.
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See more therapy options for Wilmington

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.