LGBTQ+ Therapists in Brightwood, Washington, DC

Photo of Ayelet Silberberg, PhD, Psychologist
Ayelet Silberberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brightwood, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I work through a racially aware, LGBTQIA+ affirming, feminist, fat-accepting, neurodiversity-affirming, and disability justice lens.
Accepting new clients. I am a trauma-informed psychologist with over 12 years of experience. I work with adults who seek a deeper understanding of themselves and their worlds, and those who want to heal from relational wounds or complicated childhoods. As a relational therapist, I value getting to know my clients as human beings first and foremost, while supporting them in creating a path towards authentic healing and growth. I see clients with depression, anxiety, CPTSD (complex trauma), relationship issues, and experiences around gender, sexuality, and identity, among other concerns.
I work through a racially aware, LGBTQIA+ affirming, feminist, fat-accepting, neurodiversity-affirming, and disability justice lens.
Accepting new clients. I am a trauma-informed psychologist with over 12 years of experience. I work with adults who seek a deeper understanding of themselves and their worlds, and those who want to heal from relational wounds or complicated childhoods. As a relational therapist, I value getting to know my clients as human beings first and foremost, while supporting them in creating a path towards authentic healing and growth. I see clients with depression, anxiety, CPTSD (complex trauma), relationship issues, and experiences around gender, sexuality, and identity, among other concerns.
(202) 217-0741 View (202) 217-0741
Photo of Dr. Benjamin Dukes, PhD, LICSW, RDT, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Benjamin Dukes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, RDT, RYT
Verified Verified
Brightwood, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Looking for a safe, affirming, and nonjudgmental space to be seen, heard, and acknowledged for exactly who you are while identifying your unique path to wellbeing? Well, you may have come to the right place! I utilize an eclectic, integrative approach to help clients become the most authentic version of themselves by guiding them to: (1) reveal the parts of themselves that have been hidden away (for whatever reason), (2) embrace the beauty of who they are today and offer opportunities for reframing their past (as appropriate), and (3) empower clients to choose how they want to show up in their lives going forward.
Looking for a safe, affirming, and nonjudgmental space to be seen, heard, and acknowledged for exactly who you are while identifying your unique path to wellbeing? Well, you may have come to the right place! I utilize an eclectic, integrative approach to help clients become the most authentic version of themselves by guiding them to: (1) reveal the parts of themselves that have been hidden away (for whatever reason), (2) embrace the beauty of who they are today and offer opportunities for reframing their past (as appropriate), and (3) empower clients to choose how they want to show up in their lives going forward.
(202) 301-2744 View (202) 301-2744
Photo of Rachael Schultz, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachael Schultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brightwood, Washington, DC 20011
I believe in the power of therapy to tap into our existing strengths, foster growth and connection, shift patterns, and move us toward living a more fulfilling life.
I believe in the power of therapy to tap into our existing strengths, foster growth and connection, shift patterns, and move us toward living a more fulfilling life.
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Photo of DuBois Psychological And Consulting Services, Psychologist
DuBois Psychological And Consulting Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Brightwood, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Our specialties include sport psychology (individual and team), psychological evaluations (ADHD, intellectual, medical evaluations), individual therapy (depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions) and intuitive eating.
Currently accepting new clients at DuBois Psychological and Consulting Services (DPCS). All therapy services are provided virtually, some evaluations require in-person appointments. We strive to create a warm and inviting experience for every client that we see. Are you stressed, anxious, or sad and not feeling like yourself lately? Are you ready to heal your relationship with food and improve your body image? Are you an individual or part of a team and want to perform better under pressure? Let us help you reach your full potential.
Our specialties include sport psychology (individual and team), psychological evaluations (ADHD, intellectual, medical evaluations), individual therapy (depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions) and intuitive eating.
Currently accepting new clients at DuBois Psychological and Consulting Services (DPCS). All therapy services are provided virtually, some evaluations require in-person appointments. We strive to create a warm and inviting experience for every client that we see. Are you stressed, anxious, or sad and not feeling like yourself lately? Are you ready to heal your relationship with food and improve your body image? Are you an individual or part of a team and want to perform better under pressure? Let us help you reach your full potential.
(202) 816-6735 View (202) 816-6735
Photo of Alexandra Savela, PhD, Psychologist
Alexandra Savela
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brightwood, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I'm a counseling psychologist, trained as a researcher and therapist, with a passion for life-long learning. I view counseling as a creative process where we work collaboratively to uncover the root causes of what’s getting you stuck. In tandem, we work to discover what brings you a sense of meaning and purpose in your life. I specialize in working with adults who are interested in self-growth and identity development, in addition to finding relief from symptoms. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, stress/burnout, career development, and building self-esteem & self-compassion.
I'm a counseling psychologist, trained as a researcher and therapist, with a passion for life-long learning. I view counseling as a creative process where we work collaboratively to uncover the root causes of what’s getting you stuck. In tandem, we work to discover what brings you a sense of meaning and purpose in your life. I specialize in working with adults who are interested in self-growth and identity development, in addition to finding relief from symptoms. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, stress/burnout, career development, and building self-esteem & self-compassion.
(202) 883-3254 View (202) 883-3254
Photo of Thérèse Aline Verley Strodel, LPC, Counselor
Thérèse Aline Verley Strodel
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brightwood, Washington, DC 20011
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! Congratulations on taking this important first step in your healing journey! If you're struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, grief or other life transitions, I’d be honored to work collaboratively with you. When we better understand our patterns of behavior, we can then make small changes, that have great impact. This is how we find peace and equanimity. I will assist you in understanding what is getting in the way of living your best life, creating a non-judgmental and supportive space to discover your strengths and what is most important to you. Your healing journey awaits!
Hello! Congratulations on taking this important first step in your healing journey! If you're struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, grief or other life transitions, I’d be honored to work collaboratively with you. When we better understand our patterns of behavior, we can then make small changes, that have great impact. This is how we find peace and equanimity. I will assist you in understanding what is getting in the way of living your best life, creating a non-judgmental and supportive space to discover your strengths and what is most important to you. Your healing journey awaits!
(202) 759-8573 View (202) 759-8573
Photo of Sophia Esparza, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Esparza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brightwood, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Welcome! Initiating therapy can be overwhelming. Now that you are looking to take that first step, I look forward to speaking with you to see if this is the right fit. I predominantly work with millennial professionals, new parents and adolescents dealing with life transitions/ disruptions, stress, and burnout. Anxiety and depression can be difficult to manage, but with the right tools, you can feel more in control of the obstacles that come your way.
Welcome! Initiating therapy can be overwhelming. Now that you are looking to take that first step, I look forward to speaking with you to see if this is the right fit. I predominantly work with millennial professionals, new parents and adolescents dealing with life transitions/ disruptions, stress, and burnout. Anxiety and depression can be difficult to manage, but with the right tools, you can feel more in control of the obstacles that come your way.
(202) 831-2237 View (202) 831-2237
Photo of Jenn Hudak, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenn Hudak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brightwood, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m so glad our paths have crossed. I’m guessing you’ve landed here because something in your life isn’t quite where you want it to be. Maybe you struggle with your relationships. Perhaps you feel misunderstood or invisible. Perhaps you have been hurt by someone, maybe even by a lot of people, and maybe repeatedly. Maybe you feel like life is just passing you by or wondering why life must be hard. Whatever the reason that brought you to therapy, I’m glad you’re here. I’m Jenn & it’s great to meet you. Therapy can be a scary prospect, and guess what? You’ve already taken a step toward confronting that fear. Go you!
Hi! I’m so glad our paths have crossed. I’m guessing you’ve landed here because something in your life isn’t quite where you want it to be. Maybe you struggle with your relationships. Perhaps you feel misunderstood or invisible. Perhaps you have been hurt by someone, maybe even by a lot of people, and maybe repeatedly. Maybe you feel like life is just passing you by or wondering why life must be hard. Whatever the reason that brought you to therapy, I’m glad you’re here. I’m Jenn & it’s great to meet you. Therapy can be a scary prospect, and guess what? You’ve already taken a step toward confronting that fear. Go you!
(724) 573-3864 View (724) 573-3864
Photo of Veniecia Robinson, MFT
Veniecia Robinson
MFT
Verified Verified
Brightwood, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I am Veniecia Robinson (she, her, hers) a Marriage and Family Therapist, Life Coach and Financial Therapist. For the last 5 years, I have worked with Families, Women and Children dealing with anxiety, depression and struggles with self esteem. I approach therapy and coaching through a Narrative Therapeutic framework. I also uses Money Scripts to help her clients work through their struggles with money. Veniecia is known for her open and direct approach. I recently joined a virtual group practice, Alloy Wellness where I focus on peoples relationships with themselves as well as their relationship with money.
I am Veniecia Robinson (she, her, hers) a Marriage and Family Therapist, Life Coach and Financial Therapist. For the last 5 years, I have worked with Families, Women and Children dealing with anxiety, depression and struggles with self esteem. I approach therapy and coaching through a Narrative Therapeutic framework. I also uses Money Scripts to help her clients work through their struggles with money. Veniecia is known for her open and direct approach. I recently joined a virtual group practice, Alloy Wellness where I focus on peoples relationships with themselves as well as their relationship with money.
(202) 935-7781 View (202) 935-7781
Photo of Tina J Rutherford, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina J Rutherford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brightwood, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Breathe! I got you...In a world filled with constant change and uncertainty it is easy to forget to breathe, slow down and check-in with yourself. The daily grind, career dissatisfaction, family demands, strained relationships, past and current trauma, self-doubt…the list goes on. Let me be your guide on a journey into true freedom and overall satisfaction in all areas of your life. We will explore your historical blueprint and recreate a design that is authentically yours. A blueprint guided by fearlessness and healing rather than fear, self-doubt and recycled patterns that no longer serve you.
Breathe! I got you...In a world filled with constant change and uncertainty it is easy to forget to breathe, slow down and check-in with yourself. The daily grind, career dissatisfaction, family demands, strained relationships, past and current trauma, self-doubt…the list goes on. Let me be your guide on a journey into true freedom and overall satisfaction in all areas of your life. We will explore your historical blueprint and recreate a design that is authentically yours. A blueprint guided by fearlessness and healing rather than fear, self-doubt and recycled patterns that no longer serve you.
(202) 998-6511 View (202) 998-6511
Photo of Kia Oliver, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kia Oliver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Brightwood, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life can be overwhelming, and one can begin to feel exhausted, drained, avoidant, anxious, and stuck in a never-ending cycle. Kreating Intentional Minds is here for the everyday person who wants to manage emotions, manage boundaries, lessen there load, become more organized , looking to communicate more effectively, and increase their self-care. Self-care shows up in several areas of our life including: social, physical, environmental, mental, spiritual, emotional, and financial. If your looking to find balance, protect your peace and embrace self care you have come to the right place.
Life can be overwhelming, and one can begin to feel exhausted, drained, avoidant, anxious, and stuck in a never-ending cycle. Kreating Intentional Minds is here for the everyday person who wants to manage emotions, manage boundaries, lessen there load, become more organized , looking to communicate more effectively, and increase their self-care. Self-care shows up in several areas of our life including: social, physical, environmental, mental, spiritual, emotional, and financial. If your looking to find balance, protect your peace and embrace self care you have come to the right place.
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Photo of Gisell Gaitan Valdizan, LCSW, CSAC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gisell Gaitan Valdizan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brightwood, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Some life changes are causing you to feel flooded with emotions and over-thinking your every move; your mind is stuck in a cycle and your body is in a constant state of alert. Sometimes you seem to be anchored down by a past experience(s) that keeps tinting your daily life. You are filled with worrisome thoughts, self-doubt, and your relationships have started to suffer, at home and work, to the point you cannot enjoy what you used to anymore. Those past experiences seem impossible to leave behind as many things from now keep bringing you back to them and how you felt in that moment; you simply don’t feel like yourself.
Some life changes are causing you to feel flooded with emotions and over-thinking your every move; your mind is stuck in a cycle and your body is in a constant state of alert. Sometimes you seem to be anchored down by a past experience(s) that keeps tinting your daily life. You are filled with worrisome thoughts, self-doubt, and your relationships have started to suffer, at home and work, to the point you cannot enjoy what you used to anymore. Those past experiences seem impossible to leave behind as many things from now keep bringing you back to them and how you felt in that moment; you simply don’t feel like yourself.
(571) 901-1874 View (571) 901-1874

Online Therapists

Photo of Leslie C. Kilpatrick, MEd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie C. Kilpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
You may be: a teenager confronting challenges such as anxiety, depression, peer comparison, gender identity or sexual orientation; a family that needs support with general discord, parenting a child who is neurodiverse or LGBTQIA; or a woman feeling stuck or lost, managing anxiety or depression post-college, or during pregnancy, postpartum or infertility.
If you’re considering therapy, you may be in a time of stress or transition. My goal is to ease your access to psychotherapy by providing you or your family with confidential online therapy, from the comfort of your own home. While I work with clients of all ages in any stage of life, my specialties include teen and family LGBTQIA issues, prenatal/postpartum challenges, parenting children with special needs and working with women who feel “stuck.”
You may be: a teenager confronting challenges such as anxiety, depression, peer comparison, gender identity or sexual orientation; a family that needs support with general discord, parenting a child who is neurodiverse or LGBTQIA; or a woman feeling stuck or lost, managing anxiety or depression post-college, or during pregnancy, postpartum or infertility.
If you’re considering therapy, you may be in a time of stress or transition. My goal is to ease your access to psychotherapy by providing you or your family with confidential online therapy, from the comfort of your own home. While I work with clients of all ages in any stage of life, my specialties include teen and family LGBTQIA issues, prenatal/postpartum challenges, parenting children with special needs and working with women who feel “stuck.”
(571) 350-3289 View (571) 350-3289
Photo of Sarah Pogue, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Pogue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
Therapy holds the potential for transformation if we are honest and open with one another about the process of life as reflected in the therapeutic relationship.
I identify as and specialize in LGBTQIA+ matters and open relationships. Do you struggle to motivate, care for yourself/daily tasks, or feel overwhelmed with responsibilities of life? Are your relationships suffering because of stress you feel? You desire to find a sense of peace. You want to be able to relax, to enjoy your life. You are a whole human being deserving of fulfilling relationships, connection, and meaningful direction. Let's take a step together in figuring out how to make life flow more smoothly, to talk through what possible hindrances are in the way of a more balanced, centered life.
Therapy holds the potential for transformation if we are honest and open with one another about the process of life as reflected in the therapeutic relationship.
I identify as and specialize in LGBTQIA+ matters and open relationships. Do you struggle to motivate, care for yourself/daily tasks, or feel overwhelmed with responsibilities of life? Are your relationships suffering because of stress you feel? You desire to find a sense of peace. You want to be able to relax, to enjoy your life. You are a whole human being deserving of fulfilling relationships, connection, and meaningful direction. Let's take a step together in figuring out how to make life flow more smoothly, to talk through what possible hindrances are in the way of a more balanced, centered life.
(202) 804-0825 View (202) 804-0825
Photo of Emily Maynard, PhD, Psychologist
Emily Maynard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with people who have complicated relationships with their bodies. My patients come to me because they are interested in: addressing disordered eating and body image issues; learning to live better with medical problems; reconsidering their use of alcohol and drugs; or learning to live in their bodies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or non-binary individuals. Many of my patients have also been through difficult or even traumatic events, that at times have made their bodies feel unsafe. I help my patients to reestablish a sense of trust and safety in their bodies.
I specialize in working with people who have complicated relationships with their bodies. My patients come to me because they are interested in: addressing disordered eating and body image issues; learning to live better with medical problems; reconsidering their use of alcohol and drugs; or learning to live in their bodies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or non-binary individuals. Many of my patients have also been through difficult or even traumatic events, that at times have made their bodies feel unsafe. I help my patients to reestablish a sense of trust and safety in their bodies.
(805) 865-7569 View (805) 865-7569
Photo of Mary C Quigley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary C Quigley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with couples, families, and individuals. My specialties include grief counseling, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and couples conflict. I have over 30 years of experience working with young adults in university settings and with individuals and couples in private practice. I have been the head clinician in an eating disorder and mood disorder clinic at a major university. I am particularly interested in working with clients who are struggling with low self worth and self loathing. I also have an expertise in working with gay couples.
I enjoy working with couples, families, and individuals. My specialties include grief counseling, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and couples conflict. I have over 30 years of experience working with young adults in university settings and with individuals and couples in private practice. I have been the head clinician in an eating disorder and mood disorder clinic at a major university. I am particularly interested in working with clients who are struggling with low self worth and self loathing. I also have an expertise in working with gay couples.
(202) 417-2746 View (202) 417-2746
Photo of Jamy Drapeza, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamy Drapeza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20045  (Online Only)
Jamy Drapeza, LICSW (they/she/siya) operates with a background in community based justice, restorative circle keeping, and people-led social change work. They are passionate about supporting people from all walks of life navigate through life transitions, identity exploration, and building towards their next best selves. Jamy specializes in adjusting to life changes, LGBTQ+ issues, transgender care issues, anxiety, and trauma healing.
Jamy Drapeza, LICSW (they/she/siya) operates with a background in community based justice, restorative circle keeping, and people-led social change work. They are passionate about supporting people from all walks of life navigate through life transitions, identity exploration, and building towards their next best selves. Jamy specializes in adjusting to life changes, LGBTQ+ issues, transgender care issues, anxiety, and trauma healing.
(202) 335-7009 View (202) 335-7009
Photo of DuEwa 'kaya' Spicer - Infinite Zen Holistic Psychotherapy, ABS, LICSW, LCSW, CCATP, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Infinite Zen Holistic Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ABS, LICSW, LCSW, CCATP, CST
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003  (Online Only)
Areas of Specialty: Ethically non-monogamous relationships, poly breakups, coming out LGBTQ/KINK, BDSM ,LS polyamorous, and multicultural relationships, intimacy and sexuality, sacred sexuality, anxiety, work-related stress, grief, and loss.
Are you experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety, loneliness, issues with intimacy, and sexual desire? I am a sex-positive, non-monogamous, BDSM/KINK, LGBTQIA+ affirming relationship therapist. Let's work together! Perhaps you lack self-compassion, you are self-conscious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of your relationship. An important aspect of therapy is examining our inner world, relationships, thoughts and feelings in a safe non-judgmental space. Using an integrative approach, I aim to create a positive therapeutic relationship that promotes healing with compassionate self-exploration. Contact me today!
Areas of Specialty: Ethically non-monogamous relationships, poly breakups, coming out LGBTQ/KINK, BDSM ,LS polyamorous, and multicultural relationships, intimacy and sexuality, sacred sexuality, anxiety, work-related stress, grief, and loss.
Are you experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety, loneliness, issues with intimacy, and sexual desire? I am a sex-positive, non-monogamous, BDSM/KINK, LGBTQIA+ affirming relationship therapist. Let's work together! Perhaps you lack self-compassion, you are self-conscious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of your relationship. An important aspect of therapy is examining our inner world, relationships, thoughts and feelings in a safe non-judgmental space. Using an integrative approach, I aim to create a positive therapeutic relationship that promotes healing with compassionate self-exploration. Contact me today!
(202) 816-6098 View (202) 816-6098
Photo of Eric Jones, PhD, Psychologist
Eric Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
As I use a cultural lens in my work, I welcome communities of color, LGBTQ individuals and those who have felt marginalized.
The conflict for you is that you are talented and capable, but underneath you are not so sure. You have overcome challenges and survived. Yet there remains self-doubt and anxiety. You are not going to get to where you feel you should be as long as these struggles weigh you down. Are you feeling misunderstood by others or unsure who's right for you? Or maybe unsure of what you really need? Whatever the reasons, it leads you to a familiar road of dissatisfaction, frustration, and sadness.
As I use a cultural lens in my work, I welcome communities of color, LGBTQ individuals and those who have felt marginalized.
The conflict for you is that you are talented and capable, but underneath you are not so sure. You have overcome challenges and survived. Yet there remains self-doubt and anxiety. You are not going to get to where you feel you should be as long as these struggles weigh you down. Are you feeling misunderstood by others or unsure who's right for you? Or maybe unsure of what you really need? Whatever the reasons, it leads you to a familiar road of dissatisfaction, frustration, and sadness.
(202) 807-1104 View (202) 807-1104
Photo of Brittni Dash - SMYAL's LGBTQ+ Clinical Therapy Services, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
SMYAL's LGBTQ+ Clinical Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
Mosaic is a support group for parents and caregivers of LGBTQ+ youth.
SMYAL’s mental health counseling services offer FREE therapy and provides a safe and inclusive space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. We know that finding a therapist who understands you and your community can be frustrating, expensive, and nerve-wracking. At SMYAL, we’re working to remove these barriers. Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re you’re struggling with self-acceptance, coming out, or dealing with discrimination, SMYAL is here for you!
Mosaic is a support group for parents and caregivers of LGBTQ+ youth.
SMYAL’s mental health counseling services offer FREE therapy and provides a safe and inclusive space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. We know that finding a therapist who understands you and your community can be frustrating, expensive, and nerve-wracking. At SMYAL, we’re working to remove these barriers. Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re you’re struggling with self-acceptance, coming out, or dealing with discrimination, SMYAL is here for you!
(202) 804-0992 View (202) 804-0992

See more therapy options for Brightwood, Washington

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.