LGBTQ+ Therapists in Chevy Chase, Washington, DC

Photo of Joan Bellsey, LICSW, LCSW-C, CAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joan Bellsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, CAC
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Alcohol & Drug Abuse, Depression and Anxiety, Uncertainty about Your Career Path, LGBTQ, Relationship Ambivalence,Parenting, Wondering If you are Gay? Coaching.
You've always seen yourself as confident and determined individual, firmly rooted in your life's purpose. Yet, recently, you found yourself feeling overwhelmed grappling with anxiety and pervasive thoughts of failure and loss. It's as if the weight of these emotions is becoming too difficult to handle alone. Reaching out can provide you with the tools and perspectives needed to navigate through these difficult times. If life is presenting you with obstacles you are not alone. There are resources available to assist you. Make the call, I am here to help. " Let Thoughts Come and Go. Just don't Serve them Tea."
Alcohol & Drug Abuse, Depression and Anxiety, Uncertainty about Your Career Path, LGBTQ, Relationship Ambivalence,Parenting, Wondering If you are Gay? Coaching.
You've always seen yourself as confident and determined individual, firmly rooted in your life's purpose. Yet, recently, you found yourself feeling overwhelmed grappling with anxiety and pervasive thoughts of failure and loss. It's as if the weight of these emotions is becoming too difficult to handle alone. Reaching out can provide you with the tools and perspectives needed to navigate through these difficult times. If life is presenting you with obstacles you are not alone. There are resources available to assist you. Make the call, I am here to help. " Let Thoughts Come and Go. Just don't Serve them Tea."
(202) 999-3862 View (202) 999-3862
Photo of Sharon Kenthack, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Kenthack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex issues.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy with a high success rate in treating anxiety, depression, social anxiety and more. Together, I will help you identify what thoughts and behaviors have been unhelpful, preventing you from living the life you desire. You will learn strategies and techniques in session to apply in your daily life for effective change. We will work as a collaborative partnership, progressing at a pace most comfortable for you.
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex issues.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy with a high success rate in treating anxiety, depression, social anxiety and more. Together, I will help you identify what thoughts and behaviors have been unhelpful, preventing you from living the life you desire. You will learn strategies and techniques in session to apply in your daily life for effective change. We will work as a collaborative partnership, progressing at a pace most comfortable for you.
(301) 603-3105 View (301) 603-3105
Photo of Steve Geishecker, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve Geishecker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
I have expertise working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Feeling depressed, confused, anxious? Let's talk about how I might be able to help. Creating a safe and supportive space is an important for a good partnership in therapy. Rest assured that you will be entering the therapeutic process without judgment and with unconditional positive regard. I approach therapy as a collaborative process of exploration with the goal of achieving greater self-awareness and the ability to manage life in better balance. Good chemistry and a healthy rapport are essential elements in creating a meaningful working relationship.
I have expertise working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Feeling depressed, confused, anxious? Let's talk about how I might be able to help. Creating a safe and supportive space is an important for a good partnership in therapy. Rest assured that you will be entering the therapeutic process without judgment and with unconditional positive regard. I approach therapy as a collaborative process of exploration with the goal of achieving greater self-awareness and the ability to manage life in better balance. Good chemistry and a healthy rapport are essential elements in creating a meaningful working relationship.
(202) 759-4002 View (202) 759-4002
Photo of Jaime M Grant, PhD
Jaime M Grant
PhD
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
I have 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and polycules. My book, Great Sex: Mapping Your Desire, is based on a sexual liberation workshop I've offered on campuses and at LGBTQ+ rights conferences in the US and around the world. My clients are usually in therapy but need specialized work on gender, sexuality, identity, and intimacy. Most of us believe there is something 'wrong' with our sexuality -- what we want/don't want, how we connect or fail to connect, what we know or don't know about our desire. In our work together, we discover the power of our sex his/her/theystories and plot a path to pleasure.
I have 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and polycules. My book, Great Sex: Mapping Your Desire, is based on a sexual liberation workshop I've offered on campuses and at LGBTQ+ rights conferences in the US and around the world. My clients are usually in therapy but need specialized work on gender, sexuality, identity, and intimacy. Most of us believe there is something 'wrong' with our sexuality -- what we want/don't want, how we connect or fail to connect, what we know or don't know about our desire. In our work together, we discover the power of our sex his/her/theystories and plot a path to pleasure.
(202) 952-2093 View (202) 952-2093
Photo of Mary Randall Ingate, LCSW-C, MC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Randall Ingate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MC
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
We all have periods of struggle navigating life; work; and relationships. In my practice I focus on helping individuals and families identify troubling issues while increasing self understanding; coping skills and compassion for themselves and others with the goal of improving relationships and moving forward in life in accordance with their individual goals and values. In my 30+ years of practice I have worked with people from many different cultures including the LGBTQ+ community who are struggling with anxiety; mood disorders; and addiction issues. I am committed to helping and working collaboratively with my clients.
We all have periods of struggle navigating life; work; and relationships. In my practice I focus on helping individuals and families identify troubling issues while increasing self understanding; coping skills and compassion for themselves and others with the goal of improving relationships and moving forward in life in accordance with their individual goals and values. In my 30+ years of practice I have worked with people from many different cultures including the LGBTQ+ community who are struggling with anxiety; mood disorders; and addiction issues. I am committed to helping and working collaboratively with my clients.
(301) 850-6846 View (301) 850-6846
Photo of James U. DeFrancis, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James U. DeFrancis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical interests include depression, anxiety, major life transitions, relationships, drug and alcohol addiction, trauma and PTSD, recovery from religious-based trauma, and coming out as LGBTQIA.
In today’s stressful and uncertain world, each of us can experience challenges with anxiety, depression, major life transitions, and low self-esteem. I work to provide my clients with a safe, affirming, non-judgmental space to work through these challenges on their journeys to wellness and fulfillment. I support my clients as they find healing from trauma, develop meaningful relationships, achieve their life goals, and come to celebrate their truest, deepest selves.
My clinical interests include depression, anxiety, major life transitions, relationships, drug and alcohol addiction, trauma and PTSD, recovery from religious-based trauma, and coming out as LGBTQIA.
In today’s stressful and uncertain world, each of us can experience challenges with anxiety, depression, major life transitions, and low self-esteem. I work to provide my clients with a safe, affirming, non-judgmental space to work through these challenges on their journeys to wellness and fulfillment. I support my clients as they find healing from trauma, develop meaningful relationships, achieve their life goals, and come to celebrate their truest, deepest selves.
(202) 873-9292 View (202) 873-9292
Photo of Erika Bugaj - Dandelion Counseling & Care , MSW, LICSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dandelion Counseling & Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20016
At Dandelion, we have therapists with various specialties ranging from maternal wellness, to LGBTQIA issues, to work with children and teens.
We a group psychotherapy practice comprised of clinicians who provide compassionate counseling and therapy services, using a team approach, to meet the diverse needs of busy Washingtonians. We love to support families or people individually in their journeys to live healthier and more well lives. Our team includes graduate student interns, provisionally-licensed clinicians, fully licensed clinicians, and an executive leadership and life coach.
At Dandelion, we have therapists with various specialties ranging from maternal wellness, to LGBTQIA issues, to work with children and teens.
We a group psychotherapy practice comprised of clinicians who provide compassionate counseling and therapy services, using a team approach, to meet the diverse needs of busy Washingtonians. We love to support families or people individually in their journeys to live healthier and more well lives. Our team includes graduate student interns, provisionally-licensed clinicians, fully licensed clinicians, and an executive leadership and life coach.
(202) 999-3684 View (202) 999-3684
Photo of Rosie Bick-Mera, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosie Bick-Mera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
I practice LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and am passionate about using an intersectional approach to explore the different ways culture, social norms, policies, history, and our various social identities (chosen, ascribed, and assumed) impact our experiences in the world and how we understand ourselves.
I work with adults who have experienced childhood trauma and abuse. It's OK if you don't resonate with that word. Maybe you've said that you had a "dysfunctional family" or a "complicated childhood." However you see it, it is what we experienced and learned in childhood that influences how we show up in relationships with others and with ourselves. My clients want to heal their inner child, want to improve their relationships, what to feel safe and secure in who they are. They want to rewrite the stories they've held on to, and unlearn the painful negative beliefs about who they are and what they deserve.
I practice LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and am passionate about using an intersectional approach to explore the different ways culture, social norms, policies, history, and our various social identities (chosen, ascribed, and assumed) impact our experiences in the world and how we understand ourselves.
I work with adults who have experienced childhood trauma and abuse. It's OK if you don't resonate with that word. Maybe you've said that you had a "dysfunctional family" or a "complicated childhood." However you see it, it is what we experienced and learned in childhood that influences how we show up in relationships with others and with ourselves. My clients want to heal their inner child, want to improve their relationships, what to feel safe and secure in who they are. They want to rewrite the stories they've held on to, and unlearn the painful negative beliefs about who they are and what they deserve.
(202) 883-8129 View (202) 883-8129
Photo of Athena Gavaris, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Athena Gavaris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20008
My expertise is in working with young adults, couples, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Have you not found success with other therapy experiences? Let’s meet. For over 25 years, I have been providing psychotherapy services to individuals and couples. It is a pleasure to see clients grow, resolve problems, and begin to live and feel in ways they never imagined. I create a safe, supportive, and affirming environment for exploring and gaining insight into the challenges you face, and together we will find new ways to understand, and address them. My goal is to help you find meaningful and lasting solutions that improve your mood, sense of well being, and relationships.
My expertise is in working with young adults, couples, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Have you not found success with other therapy experiences? Let’s meet. For over 25 years, I have been providing psychotherapy services to individuals and couples. It is a pleasure to see clients grow, resolve problems, and begin to live and feel in ways they never imagined. I create a safe, supportive, and affirming environment for exploring and gaining insight into the challenges you face, and together we will find new ways to understand, and address them. My goal is to help you find meaningful and lasting solutions that improve your mood, sense of well being, and relationships.
(202) 759-5433 View (202) 759-5433
Photo of Mary Hope Blase, MS, APRN, CNS
Mary Hope Blase
MS, APRN, CNS
Not Verified Not Verified
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20016
Welcome! I am an adult psychotherapist, licensed as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS). These credentials, coupled with nearly 30 years of related experience, allow me to address clients' needs holistically in individual, couples and group psychotherapy. Many individuals struggle with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, loss, addictions, and adjustment to change. My style is direct, compassionate and interactive and relies on evidenced-based practices. I am open to the LGBT community. I aim to help individuals and couples gain insight and make behavioral changes to enhance their lives.
Welcome! I am an adult psychotherapist, licensed as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS). These credentials, coupled with nearly 30 years of related experience, allow me to address clients' needs holistically in individual, couples and group psychotherapy. Many individuals struggle with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, loss, addictions, and adjustment to change. My style is direct, compassionate and interactive and relies on evidenced-based practices. I am open to the LGBT community. I aim to help individuals and couples gain insight and make behavioral changes to enhance their lives.
(202) 759-3991 View (202) 759-3991
Photo of Michael A Vigorito, MFT, CGP, CST-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael A Vigorito
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CGP, CST-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20036
How do you know if your sexual behavior is out of control? It's a subjective question that many men unfortunately wait until relationship, occupational or medical consequences accumulate before considering. I believe the most important person to evaluate concerns with regulating sexual behavior is the man experiencing the dilemma. I start with two basic questions: "What is your conflict with your sexual behavior?" and "What is your vision for your sexual health?" Since 2001, I have provided a safe, informed and confidential space for sexual health conversations with heterosexual, gay and bisexual men.
How do you know if your sexual behavior is out of control? It's a subjective question that many men unfortunately wait until relationship, occupational or medical consequences accumulate before considering. I believe the most important person to evaluate concerns with regulating sexual behavior is the man experiencing the dilemma. I start with two basic questions: "What is your conflict with your sexual behavior?" and "What is your vision for your sexual health?" Since 2001, I have provided a safe, informed and confidential space for sexual health conversations with heterosexual, gay and bisexual men.
(202) 949-7872 View (202) 949-7872
Photo of Lawrence Levner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lawrence Levner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20008
My approach to therapy is to create a context in which individuals, couples and families can know themselves in terms of their inherent strengths, competencies and capacities. I believe that when people experience themselves this way, they are most able to deal with stress, disruption, anxiety and depression in their lives. In my work with families and couples, I focus on interpersonal connection and work to help people experience the ways in which they make a positive difference to one another.
My approach to therapy is to create a context in which individuals, couples and families can know themselves in terms of their inherent strengths, competencies and capacities. I believe that when people experience themselves this way, they are most able to deal with stress, disruption, anxiety and depression in their lives. In my work with families and couples, I focus on interpersonal connection and work to help people experience the ways in which they make a positive difference to one another.
(301) 859-3386 View (301) 859-3386
Photo of Ann K Ewing, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann K Ewing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20016
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel like you're stuck in in any of your current relationships - spouse or partner, family, friends, or with work? Are you still seeking healthy relationships? Would you like to improve your relationship with yourself? Do you have sexual orientation or gender identity concerns, either for yourself or for someone you care about? Are you working to adjust to a significant change in your life - navigating a break-up, divorce, or move, grieving a loss, or becoming a parent? Do you strive to live authentically while struggling with the vulnerability needed to do so? Whatever your relational concerns or issues are, I can help.
Do you feel like you're stuck in in any of your current relationships - spouse or partner, family, friends, or with work? Are you still seeking healthy relationships? Would you like to improve your relationship with yourself? Do you have sexual orientation or gender identity concerns, either for yourself or for someone you care about? Are you working to adjust to a significant change in your life - navigating a break-up, divorce, or move, grieving a loss, or becoming a parent? Do you strive to live authentically while struggling with the vulnerability needed to do so? Whatever your relational concerns or issues are, I can help.
(202) 670-4933 View (202) 670-4933
Photo of Christopher Straley, MSW, CGP, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Straley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CGP, CST
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
With over 20 years of experience providing mental health services, primarily to men, individuals and couples, who are struggling with relationship issues, sexual health, and/or substance use issues, my focus is on helping you feel better. If you are struggling to feel connected with your partner, or others in your life, therapy can help. As a relationship specialist, I work with you, to help understand and improve communication, heal past ruptures, and increase intimacy - emotional and sexual. We may also work together to decrease your sexual performance anxiety, increase confidence, and pleasure.
With over 20 years of experience providing mental health services, primarily to men, individuals and couples, who are struggling with relationship issues, sexual health, and/or substance use issues, my focus is on helping you feel better. If you are struggling to feel connected with your partner, or others in your life, therapy can help. As a relationship specialist, I work with you, to help understand and improve communication, heal past ruptures, and increase intimacy - emotional and sexual. We may also work together to decrease your sexual performance anxiety, increase confidence, and pleasure.
(202) 670-6926 View (202) 670-6926
Photo of Kristin Pillay, LICSW, MEd, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Pillay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20015
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience working with kids, adolescents, and families and use a strengths based approach to meet children where they are. You can show up now and be seen, known, and valued at our new office. As a former school counselor, I know that children have varying school experiences and show up with you to build community, partner with you, and to meet each child where they are. I am curious, not all knowing, and consider the impact of words and actions. Our creative therapeutic interventions to support and to increase self understanding for kids across developmental stages
I have extensive experience working with kids, adolescents, and families and use a strengths based approach to meet children where they are. You can show up now and be seen, known, and valued at our new office. As a former school counselor, I know that children have varying school experiences and show up with you to build community, partner with you, and to meet each child where they are. I am curious, not all knowing, and consider the impact of words and actions. Our creative therapeutic interventions to support and to increase self understanding for kids across developmental stages
(202) 933-8243 View (202) 933-8243
Photo of Gretchen Glick, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gretchen Glick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20008
I provide a safe non-judgmental environment to address thoughts and feelings that may lead to negative consequences, by incorporating highly individualized strength based measures to manage stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
I provide a safe non-judgmental environment to address thoughts and feelings that may lead to negative consequences, by incorporating highly individualized strength based measures to manage stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
(202) 953-3477 View (202) 953-3477
Photo of John Jacob Hartman, PhD, FABP, Psychologist
John Jacob Hartman
Psychologist, PhD, FABP
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
I am seeing clients online only in Tampa, Florida and Washington DC. If you suffer from anxiety, depression, low self esteem, or find yourself in recurring patterns of relationship difficulties or if you feel that something is missing in your life or you just wish to understand yourself better, psychoanalytic psychotherapy may be the answer you are looking for.
I am seeing clients online only in Tampa, Florida and Washington DC. If you suffer from anxiety, depression, low self esteem, or find yourself in recurring patterns of relationship difficulties or if you feel that something is missing in your life or you just wish to understand yourself better, psychoanalytic psychotherapy may be the answer you are looking for.
(202) 937-3034 View (202) 937-3034
Photo of Dr. Martha Gross, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Martha Gross
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20008
Navigating life's stresses, dealing with relationship disappointments and regaining self confidence and hope are issues that we can confront together. I will help you become aware of your harmful patterns of behavior and replace them with new healthier ones. Through awareness learned in therapy, you will develop a new sense of comfort and satisfaction with your life.
Navigating life's stresses, dealing with relationship disappointments and regaining self confidence and hope are issues that we can confront together. I will help you become aware of your harmful patterns of behavior and replace them with new healthier ones. Through awareness learned in therapy, you will develop a new sense of comfort and satisfaction with your life.
(202) 390-7162 View (202) 390-7162
Photo of Maribeth Hilliard Hager, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maribeth Hilliard Hager
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20015
I provide a supportive therapeutic environment helping individuals and families attain a greater understanding into their thoughts, feelings, and actions. Through this understanding, clients will make choices and decisions that will put them on a path to what they really want out of their lives, their families, and their relationships.
I provide a supportive therapeutic environment helping individuals and families attain a greater understanding into their thoughts, feelings, and actions. Through this understanding, clients will make choices and decisions that will put them on a path to what they really want out of their lives, their families, and their relationships.
(301) 852-5023 View (301) 852-5023
Photo of Gabrielle Holder, LICSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabrielle Holder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, Washington, DC 20008
I am committed to helping people who feel challenged in relationships, in their professional lives, or creatively and emotionally. My approach is determined by your needs and pays attention to your strengths, guided by the belief that you already possess the ability to make things better. I provide individual therapy grounded in a strength based approach and often use holistic frames to promote insight and cultivate growth and change. I am noted for my warm demeanor, openness, positivity and authentic qualities. My practice offers a warm and caring place to build skills and enhance your growth.
I am committed to helping people who feel challenged in relationships, in their professional lives, or creatively and emotionally. My approach is determined by your needs and pays attention to your strengths, guided by the belief that you already possess the ability to make things better. I provide individual therapy grounded in a strength based approach and often use holistic frames to promote insight and cultivate growth and change. I am noted for my warm demeanor, openness, positivity and authentic qualities. My practice offers a warm and caring place to build skills and enhance your growth.
(202) 868-8760 View (202) 868-8760
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See more therapy options for Chevy Chase, 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.