Transgender Therapists in New Haven County, CT

Photo of Dayne Romano, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dayne Romano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Derby, CT 06418
I specialize in working with diverse sexualities and gender identities and my work with the LGBTQ+ community over the past 10 years has provided extensive experience in supporting individuals and their families with the coming-out process and assisting transgender clients with social and/or medical transition. My goal is to make you feel safe, comfortable and empowered from the moment you step into my office. If you are looking for a therapist who is direct, transparent, engaging and nurturing, I believe we could be the right fit. I operate from a person-centered approach, meeting my clients where they are at currently.
I specialize in working with diverse sexualities and gender identities and my work with the LGBTQ+ community over the past 10 years has provided extensive experience in supporting individuals and their families with the coming-out process and assisting transgender clients with social and/or medical transition. My goal is to make you feel safe, comfortable and empowered from the moment you step into my office. If you are looking for a therapist who is direct, transparent, engaging and nurturing, I believe we could be the right fit. I operate from a person-centered approach, meeting my clients where they are at currently.
(475) 999-2436 View (475) 999-2436
Photo of JJ Jarrard - Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC, LMHC, Counselor
Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06501  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it is like to be queer? Or a therapist that can help you navigate the ups and downs of non traditional relationships or family styles? You deserve therapy that is affirming and judgement-free while working through difficulties with communication, intimacy, mental health, sleep, eating, addiction, career stress, faith/religion, gender dysphoria and/or transitioning. You deserve therapy in the comfort of your own home that is easily accessible through computer or phone via secure tele-health.
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it is like to be queer? Or a therapist that can help you navigate the ups and downs of non traditional relationships or family styles? You deserve therapy that is affirming and judgement-free while working through difficulties with communication, intimacy, mental health, sleep, eating, addiction, career stress, faith/religion, gender dysphoria and/or transitioning. You deserve therapy in the comfort of your own home that is easily accessible through computer or phone via secure tele-health.
(508) 403-9111 View (508) 403-9111
Photo of Joie A DeRitis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joie A DeRitis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Branford, CT 06405
My approach is informed by my experiences as a queer, fat, neurodivergent, and disabled transgender woman.
Hi there. I am currently accepting new clients in CT & NY. I am a psychotherapist offering LGBTQ+ affirming care to adult individuals, couples, and multi-person relationships. I also offer psychedelic therapy (KAP specifically). My clinical approach is highly relational, and is designed to keep you grounded in your personal sovereignty as we collaborate toward your goals. I help people with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, gender and sexuality, eroticism, interpersonal dysfunction, intrusive thoughts, body image, spirituality and religious trauma, life changes and transitions, and shame and blame from the past.
My approach is informed by my experiences as a queer, fat, neurodivergent, and disabled transgender woman.
Hi there. I am currently accepting new clients in CT & NY. I am a psychotherapist offering LGBTQ+ affirming care to adult individuals, couples, and multi-person relationships. I also offer psychedelic therapy (KAP specifically). My clinical approach is highly relational, and is designed to keep you grounded in your personal sovereignty as we collaborate toward your goals. I help people with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, gender and sexuality, eroticism, interpersonal dysfunction, intrusive thoughts, body image, spirituality and religious trauma, life changes and transitions, and shame and blame from the past.
(929) 369-0579 View (929) 369-0579
Photo of Nadine Davisha Ruff - Divinely You , LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Divinely You
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06514
Divinely You Supportive Services trauma-informed, trans-affirming mental health care to the transgender community Name Change Options Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Resources Psychosocial Therapeutic Counseling Peer Support Groups Employment, and Empowerment Advocacy! Fight for Transgender Rights Trans Closet Housing Therapy for LGBT Community.
The trans community struggles with the highest rates of suicidality among the general population. It has been well established that trans people disproportionately experience mental health issues related to emotional and/or physical suicidality. This is because simply by being born trans, one experiences an inherent sense of not belonging in society, which results in barriers to necessary health care. Trans people often spend their lives longing to be seen and heard, searching for emotional stability that is difficult to find in a world that has told them who they are is wrong. This rhetoric is found in language such as the “born in
Divinely You Supportive Services trauma-informed, trans-affirming mental health care to the transgender community Name Change Options Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Resources Psychosocial Therapeutic Counseling Peer Support Groups Employment, and Empowerment Advocacy! Fight for Transgender Rights Trans Closet Housing Therapy for LGBT Community.
The trans community struggles with the highest rates of suicidality among the general population. It has been well established that trans people disproportionately experience mental health issues related to emotional and/or physical suicidality. This is because simply by being born trans, one experiences an inherent sense of not belonging in society, which results in barriers to necessary health care. Trans people often spend their lives longing to be seen and heard, searching for emotional stability that is difficult to find in a world that has told them who they are is wrong. This rhetoric is found in language such as the “born in
(475) 473-8359 View (475) 473-8359
Photo of Jess J Schpero, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jess J Schpero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06511  (Online Only)
I am trained as an LGBTQIA+ individual and family therapist with specialization in gender dysphoria, PTSD and mood presentations.
Engaging in the therapeutic process can be an incredibly rewarding act of self care. Sometimes we may feel overwhelmed with life’s challenges or be struggling to understand our reactions and emotions. It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of life’s daily challenges, and not take the time to step back and try to ease the worry. By allowing yourself the time, you can begin to renew a sense of empowerment while also reducing feelings of distress.
I am trained as an LGBTQIA+ individual and family therapist with specialization in gender dysphoria, PTSD and mood presentations.
Engaging in the therapeutic process can be an incredibly rewarding act of self care. Sometimes we may feel overwhelmed with life’s challenges or be struggling to understand our reactions and emotions. It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of life’s daily challenges, and not take the time to step back and try to ease the worry. By allowing yourself the time, you can begin to renew a sense of empowerment while also reducing feelings of distress.
(646) 846-1193 View (646) 846-1193
Photo of Cynthia A Palmisano, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Cynthia A Palmisano
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525
Other areas include depression, assisting those with legal difficulties, transgender concerns and in areas of anger management.
Congratulations on taking the first step! I am an experienced professional hoping to assist you in whatever challenges you may be experiencing. I believe the first step in treatment should be accurate diagonsis. I have worked extensively with adolescents & adults in practice and strive to offer individualized services that fit my clients' needs. My primary focus is psychological testing and evaluation to help clarify diagnosis and make targeted recommendations for treatment.
Other areas include depression, assisting those with legal difficulties, transgender concerns and in areas of anger management.
Congratulations on taking the first step! I am an experienced professional hoping to assist you in whatever challenges you may be experiencing. I believe the first step in treatment should be accurate diagonsis. I have worked extensively with adolescents & adults in practice and strive to offer individualized services that fit my clients' needs. My primary focus is psychological testing and evaluation to help clarify diagnosis and make targeted recommendations for treatment.
(203) 312-7987 View (203) 312-7987
Photo of Aliya Webermann, PhD, Psychologist
Aliya Webermann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! I provide affirming and trauma-informed care which conceptualizes individual mental health within a sociopolitical and cultural context. This is particularly important to understanding the experiences of individuals within invalidating and discriminatory environments. The impacts of minority-based stress and trauma cannot be addressed merely through changing your thinking. My aim is to help you develop coping skills, insight, and resiliency to thrive in our challenging world. As a queer therapist, I aspire to offer a safe space for LGBTQIA+ identity exploration. I specialize in PTSD and gender dysphoria.
Accepting new clients! I provide affirming and trauma-informed care which conceptualizes individual mental health within a sociopolitical and cultural context. This is particularly important to understanding the experiences of individuals within invalidating and discriminatory environments. The impacts of minority-based stress and trauma cannot be addressed merely through changing your thinking. My aim is to help you develop coping skills, insight, and resiliency to thrive in our challenging world. As a queer therapist, I aspire to offer a safe space for LGBTQIA+ identity exploration. I specialize in PTSD and gender dysphoria.
(203) 625-1993 View (203) 625-1993
Photo of Jamelah Stone - Thrive and Renew Counseling LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thrive and Renew Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Branford, CT 06405  (Online Only)
Jamelah Stone LCSW specializes in working with people in the kink, BDSM, poly, bisexual, , gay, lesbian and transgender LQBTQIA2S+ communities.
My name is Jamelah Stone LCSW, I have provided counseling services for over 20 years to adults with various conditions. I believe in providing compassionate and custom clinical services to meet the needs and goals of our clients in a non-judgmental and safe space. I created Thrive and Renew Counseling LLC to reflect this philosophy. We offer Individual therapy for adult clients with various conditions such as, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, trauma, addictions, relationship struggles, sexual health, and caregivers of loved ones with dementia/Alzheimer.
Jamelah Stone LCSW specializes in working with people in the kink, BDSM, poly, bisexual, , gay, lesbian and transgender LQBTQIA2S+ communities.
My name is Jamelah Stone LCSW, I have provided counseling services for over 20 years to adults with various conditions. I believe in providing compassionate and custom clinical services to meet the needs and goals of our clients in a non-judgmental and safe space. I created Thrive and Renew Counseling LLC to reflect this philosophy. We offer Individual therapy for adult clients with various conditions such as, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, trauma, addictions, relationship struggles, sexual health, and caregivers of loved ones with dementia/Alzheimer.
(203) 989-3767 View (203) 989-3767
Photo of Vincent Samuolis - Vincent Samuolis, LCSW, LCSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vincent Samuolis, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
I specialize in addiction and recovery, transgender and non-binary youth and adults, and hard of hearing persons including cochlear implants.
Are you ready to to take the first step on your journey toward self improvement and achieving your personal goals? Twenty-four years as a school social worker has given me comprehensive experience with children, adolescents, parents, and families challenged by as difficult behavior, emotional disturbance, ADHD, and ineffective parenting. Two years experience as a clinician for a psychiatric hospital provided me intensive knowledge and compassion for adults with mental illness and dually diagnoses. Five years experience as a substance abuse counselor for a state agency provided a thorough understanding of addiction and recovery.
I specialize in addiction and recovery, transgender and non-binary youth and adults, and hard of hearing persons including cochlear implants.
Are you ready to to take the first step on your journey toward self improvement and achieving your personal goals? Twenty-four years as a school social worker has given me comprehensive experience with children, adolescents, parents, and families challenged by as difficult behavior, emotional disturbance, ADHD, and ineffective parenting. Two years experience as a clinician for a psychiatric hospital provided me intensive knowledge and compassion for adults with mental illness and dually diagnoses. Five years experience as a substance abuse counselor for a state agency provided a thorough understanding of addiction and recovery.
(203) 654-3602 View (203) 654-3602
Jane R Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Meriden, CT 06450
Special interests include relationship and identity issues; adolescent and women's issues; anxiety and PTSD; blended families; and lesbian/gay/bisexual/ transgender concerns.
Twenty-five years into it, I still love being a counselor and psychotherapist. It is an honor and a privilege to be involved in the personal struggle and transformation of each client, couple, and family I see. I regard therapy more as an art than a science, though I certainly utilize current research in my practice. Most often my clients present problems in living rather than "mental illness" per se and they appreciate my attention to their strengths, resources, and spiritual concerns.
Special interests include relationship and identity issues; adolescent and women's issues; anxiety and PTSD; blended families; and lesbian/gay/bisexual/ transgender concerns.
Twenty-five years into it, I still love being a counselor and psychotherapist. It is an honor and a privilege to be involved in the personal struggle and transformation of each client, couple, and family I see. I regard therapy more as an art than a science, though I certainly utilize current research in my practice. Most often my clients present problems in living rather than "mental illness" per se and they appreciate my attention to their strengths, resources, and spiritual concerns.
(860) 591-9907 View (860) 591-9907
Photo of Cj Mazzalupo, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cj Mazzalupo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southbury, CT 06488
Hi, I'm CJ and I am licensed to serve clients in New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Vermont. I've been a practicing psychotherapist since 2013. I believe that an authentic therapeutic relationship is integral to the healing process. In our work together, we will take a collaborative approach as you build self-awareness and develop dependable coping skills. Your treatment will be individualized to your specific needs and goals and you will play a vital role in the process, co-creating ways to move forward in your life that allow you to let go of old patterns and habits preventing you from true self-actualization.
Hi, I'm CJ and I am licensed to serve clients in New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Vermont. I've been a practicing psychotherapist since 2013. I believe that an authentic therapeutic relationship is integral to the healing process. In our work together, we will take a collaborative approach as you build self-awareness and develop dependable coping skills. Your treatment will be individualized to your specific needs and goals and you will play a vital role in the process, co-creating ways to move forward in your life that allow you to let go of old patterns and habits preventing you from true self-actualization.
(617) 249-4270 View (617) 249-4270
Photo of Nicolas Meade, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicolas Meade
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06519  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task! If you are seeking a compassion-focused space in which you are seen as a whole person, I may be a good fit. I have a particular passion for supporting and uplifting LGBTQ+ individuals and those who have experienced trauma of all kinds. I have extensive expertise in treating PTSD, C-PTSD, and dissociative disorders. As a trans therapist, I practice from an affirmative care model that centers gender joy, as I strongly believe that our joy is resistance! My goal is to provide a warm, empathic space for you to move out of survival mode and into a life that brings you fulfillment and meaning.
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task! If you are seeking a compassion-focused space in which you are seen as a whole person, I may be a good fit. I have a particular passion for supporting and uplifting LGBTQ+ individuals and those who have experienced trauma of all kinds. I have extensive expertise in treating PTSD, C-PTSD, and dissociative disorders. As a trans therapist, I practice from an affirmative care model that centers gender joy, as I strongly believe that our joy is resistance! My goal is to provide a warm, empathic space for you to move out of survival mode and into a life that brings you fulfillment and meaning.
(203) 803-4169 View (203) 803-4169
Photo of Amelia Yankey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amelia Yankey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Haven, CT 06520
I practice therapy because I believe in the human capacity for liberation and healing, and our ability to empower each other and collectively improve our lives. I don't know what living a life that you love and value would look like for you, but I'm excited to find out together. I've primarily worked with people with serious trauma histories. I’m especially experienced in working with LGBTQIA+ folks, and with the kink and poly/ENM communities. I know how important it is to not only be affirmed in your identities, but understood as someone connected to the larger world.
I practice therapy because I believe in the human capacity for liberation and healing, and our ability to empower each other and collectively improve our lives. I don't know what living a life that you love and value would look like for you, but I'm excited to find out together. I've primarily worked with people with serious trauma histories. I’m especially experienced in working with LGBTQIA+ folks, and with the kink and poly/ENM communities. I know how important it is to not only be affirmed in your identities, but understood as someone connected to the larger world.
(347) 694-7765 View (347) 694-7765
Photo of Jordan Buell Hunt, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Buell Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wallingford, CT 06492
We are often faced with circumstances which prevent us from experiencing the feelings of joy, peace, and hope which we long for. Managing day-to-day obligations and expectations can make us to feel out of balance and cause us to experience negative emotions. Meeting with a therapist who has a kind, thoughtful and objective eye can often assist in reclaiming the sense of balance, wholeness and positivity we've lost. If this sounds familiar, I would be happy to meet and discover if my training and 25+ years of experience can assist in restoring a sense wellness and satisfaction in your life and your relationships.
We are often faced with circumstances which prevent us from experiencing the feelings of joy, peace, and hope which we long for. Managing day-to-day obligations and expectations can make us to feel out of balance and cause us to experience negative emotions. Meeting with a therapist who has a kind, thoughtful and objective eye can often assist in reclaiming the sense of balance, wholeness and positivity we've lost. If this sounds familiar, I would be happy to meet and discover if my training and 25+ years of experience can assist in restoring a sense wellness and satisfaction in your life and your relationships.
(203) 408-1851 View (203) 408-1851
Photo of Ron Ifrach, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ron Ifrach
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06517
I genuinely believe we are each magical beings that have something incredible to offer the world. Sometimes we struggle with our own authenticity when we struggle with issues like: substance use, body image, self-esteem, gender identity, disorder eating, past trauma and levels of systemic oppression people in our lives may not understand. I believe becoming your most authentic self is possible. I also believe each person, especially queer people deserve to have healthy, safe, loving relationships free from judgment and we are here to help you a long the way.
I genuinely believe we are each magical beings that have something incredible to offer the world. Sometimes we struggle with our own authenticity when we struggle with issues like: substance use, body image, self-esteem, gender identity, disorder eating, past trauma and levels of systemic oppression people in our lives may not understand. I believe becoming your most authentic self is possible. I also believe each person, especially queer people deserve to have healthy, safe, loving relationships free from judgment and we are here to help you a long the way.
(203) 427-0578 View (203) 427-0578
Photo of Jennifer Gonzalez Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Gonzalez Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06705
I have experience with working with children as young as 3, families, adolescents and adults. I have worked extensively with families involved in the DCF system. I've worked with individuals with special needs and adolescent and adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders and PTSD, across the State of Connecticut , and within a group home setting, and I hold a certification in TF-CBT. I enjoy being creative and assisting my clients in building coping skills, and I feel very lucky to work with each client that I meet. I also enjoy facilitating groups and am a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor.
I have experience with working with children as young as 3, families, adolescents and adults. I have worked extensively with families involved in the DCF system. I've worked with individuals with special needs and adolescent and adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders and PTSD, across the State of Connecticut , and within a group home setting, and I hold a certification in TF-CBT. I enjoy being creative and assisting my clients in building coping skills, and I feel very lucky to work with each client that I meet. I also enjoy facilitating groups and am a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor.
(860) 850-2330 View (860) 850-2330
Photo of Dr. D Ray Sirry, MSW/PhD,    LCSW, ACSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. D Ray Sirry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW/PhD, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525
Life’s journey has many paths—It can become a struggle, or even a crisis, for any of us. If you need help, come, talk confidentially with me. I listen well. You will find me to be non-judgmental. I welcome all people—couples, families, adults, seniors and children from 8 to 18. Meeting you would be my pleasure. Helping you would be my mission. With more Han 50 years of social work experience, including an Appointment by President George H. W. Bush to serve as Commissioner of the Children’s Bureau, my work experience, rarely matched, helps me help you, as do my PhD education and life experience,
Life’s journey has many paths—It can become a struggle, or even a crisis, for any of us. If you need help, come, talk confidentially with me. I listen well. You will find me to be non-judgmental. I welcome all people—couples, families, adults, seniors and children from 8 to 18. Meeting you would be my pleasure. Helping you would be my mission. With more Han 50 years of social work experience, including an Appointment by President George H. W. Bush to serve as Commissioner of the Children’s Bureau, my work experience, rarely matched, helps me help you, as do my PhD education and life experience,
(203) 872-0988 View (203) 872-0988
Photo of Jen Johnston, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jen Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06514
I am a warm, straightforward therapist focused on providing effective treatment. I work to connect genuinely with each of my patients because I believe the first component of effective treatment is the formation of a trusting, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship. With this relationship as the foundation, we can then collaboratively determine your goals and take measurable steps to achieving the change you want in your life. I specialize in the treatment of adolescents and young adults struggling with depression, sexual and gender identity, suicidality, emotion regulation, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship problems, family issues, academic and occupational stress, and life transitions.
I am a warm, straightforward therapist focused on providing effective treatment. I work to connect genuinely with each of my patients because I believe the first component of effective treatment is the formation of a trusting, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship. With this relationship as the foundation, we can then collaboratively determine your goals and take measurable steps to achieving the change you want in your life. I specialize in the treatment of adolescents and young adults struggling with depression, sexual and gender identity, suicidality, emotion regulation, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship problems, family issues, academic and occupational stress, and life transitions.
(857) 366-4399 View (857) 366-4399
Photo of Michelle Lucco, MA, LPC-A
Michelle Lucco
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheshire, CT 06410
I like to work with clients who are committed to their own growth and well-being, willing to take a journey of self-discovery and transformation, and eager to make positive life changes.
I like to work with clients who are committed to their own growth and well-being, willing to take a journey of self-discovery and transformation, and eager to make positive life changes.
(475) 252-5233 View (475) 252-5233
Photo of Guy Orly, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Guy Orly
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06510
In addition to treating adults with anxiety, depression and other common and complex conditions, I specialize in child and adolescent psychotherapy, substance abuse struggles as well as LGBTQ populations, including gender-expansive, gender-questioning individuals across the lifespan.
In addition to treating adults with anxiety, depression and other common and complex conditions, I specialize in child and adolescent psychotherapy, substance abuse struggles as well as LGBTQ populations, including gender-expansive, gender-questioning individuals across the lifespan.
(203) 745-2148 View (203) 745-2148
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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.