Therapists in Dupont Circle, Washington, DC

Photo of Jeremy Ayers, LGPC, Counselor
Jeremy Ayers
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
I believe you’re stronger and wiser than your current struggles might lead you to believe. It’s just that sometimes our core strength gets covered up by the stress of life and the difficulties we’ve faced. With me, therapy is about helping your best self emerge, which often takes a big dose of compassion and a much-needed break. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including anxiety and depression, relationships and sex, career changes, grief, trauma, and growing up in dysfunctional families. I'm also passionate about supporting LGBTQ, trans, and gender expansive clients.
I believe you’re stronger and wiser than your current struggles might lead you to believe. It’s just that sometimes our core strength gets covered up by the stress of life and the difficulties we’ve faced. With me, therapy is about helping your best self emerge, which often takes a big dose of compassion and a much-needed break. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including anxiety and depression, relationships and sex, career changes, grief, trauma, and growing up in dysfunctional families. I'm also passionate about supporting LGBTQ, trans, and gender expansive clients.
(202) 979-9503 View (202) 979-9503
Photo of Kate L Stewart, PhD, Psychologist
Kate L Stewart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I value working with individuals from many different backgrounds, including folx from queer and trans communities, POC, and both college students and working adults. I’m a strong advocate for gender affirming health care. A significant focus of my work involves helping my clients to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships.
I value working with individuals from many different backgrounds, including folx from queer and trans communities, POC, and both college students and working adults. I’m a strong advocate for gender affirming health care. A significant focus of my work involves helping my clients to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships.
(202) 933-5634 View (202) 933-5634
Photo of Kyle T Collins, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle T Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20009
Not accepting new clients
Kyle T. Collins is the Owner & Clinical Director of HeartWerq. Kyle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor focused on working with members of the LGBTQ+, polyamorous, kink, and BDSM communities. Kyle’s practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, and families on issues related to relationship difficulties and/or sexual difficulties, including issues related to trauma, anxiety, illness or disability, interpersonal boundaries, and many other stressors.
Kyle T. Collins is the Owner & Clinical Director of HeartWerq. Kyle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor focused on working with members of the LGBTQ+, polyamorous, kink, and BDSM communities. Kyle’s practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, and families on issues related to relationship difficulties and/or sexual difficulties, including issues related to trauma, anxiety, illness or disability, interpersonal boundaries, and many other stressors.
(301) 234-7916 View (301) 234-7916
Photo of Dallas Williams-Sierra, LICSW, EMDR-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dallas Williams-Sierra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I recognize that LGBTQ persons have unique challenges and may face additional obstacles when choosing a psychotherapist.
*At this time, I am only accepting new clients for EMDR treatment* Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
I recognize that LGBTQ persons have unique challenges and may face additional obstacles when choosing a psychotherapist.
*At this time, I am only accepting new clients for EMDR treatment* Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
(202) 556-3451 View (202) 556-3451
Photo of David A. Heilman, PsyD, Psychologist
David A. Heilman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
26 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
While I have enjoyed working effectively with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and couples/relationship challenges.
One of the hardest parts of the therapeutic process is choosing the right therapist for you, and I hope to join you on your journey toward greater self-understanding, compassion, and insight. Many people come to therapy after experiencing emotional distress that has led them to feel overwhelmed and as though they have lost direction in, and control of, their life. In a safe and non-judgmental space, I work collaboratively with my clients to explore ways in which they can effectively regain a sense of empowerment, meaning, and control in their lives.
While I have enjoyed working effectively with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and couples/relationship challenges.
One of the hardest parts of the therapeutic process is choosing the right therapist for you, and I hope to join you on your journey toward greater self-understanding, compassion, and insight. Many people come to therapy after experiencing emotional distress that has led them to feel overwhelmed and as though they have lost direction in, and control of, their life. In a safe and non-judgmental space, I work collaboratively with my clients to explore ways in which they can effectively regain a sense of empowerment, meaning, and control in their lives.
(202) 831-7813 View (202) 831-7813
Photo of Morgan Christie, PhD, Psychologist
Morgan Christie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in trauma treatment, body image concerns, and LGBTQIA+ mental health.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
I have specialized training in trauma treatment, body image concerns, and LGBTQIA+ mental health.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
(202) 953-4328 View (202) 953-4328
Photo of Davin Maijala, PsyD, Psychologist
Davin Maijala
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My areas of expertise include LGBTQ+ issues, grief, stress/anxiety, and mood disorders.
I'm a psychologist with +20 years experience in the mental health field. My primary goal as a therapist is to help you explore and address the concerns that bring you to therapy. I take time to listen and get to know you to understand what you'd like to improve in your life. I individualize my approach by integrating techniques to best help you grow and find balance and happiness. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment. I am more directive and solution-focused when that approach might be more effective for you.
My areas of expertise include LGBTQ+ issues, grief, stress/anxiety, and mood disorders.
I'm a psychologist with +20 years experience in the mental health field. My primary goal as a therapist is to help you explore and address the concerns that bring you to therapy. I take time to listen and get to know you to understand what you'd like to improve in your life. I individualize my approach by integrating techniques to best help you grow and find balance and happiness. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment. I am more directive and solution-focused when that approach might be more effective for you.
(202) 817-2336 View (202) 817-2336
Photo of Morgan Summers-Slaughter, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Summers-Slaughter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I love to work with clients in the process of working through identity struggles, and dynamics at play that impact a person's ability to be authentic. I'm particularly interested in working with young adults, and those in and around the LGBTQIA+ community. I work to provide an affirming, supportive space for healing and growth for all clients regardless of their age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background and practices (or lack thereof), or any other factor.
I love to work with clients in the process of working through identity struggles, and dynamics at play that impact a person's ability to be authentic. I'm particularly interested in working with young adults, and those in and around the LGBTQIA+ community. I work to provide an affirming, supportive space for healing and growth for all clients regardless of their age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background and practices (or lack thereof), or any other factor.
(240) 219-6923 View (240) 219-6923
Photo of Sarah Nealy - The LGBT+ Counseling Collaborative, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
The LGBT+ Counseling Collaborative
LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
The LGBT+ Counseling Collaborative is a group of licensed psychotherapists who specialize in gay, queer, and gender expansive topics and themes, and have lived experiences in those communities. We work with adolescents over 14, adults, and couples to offer individual counseling, group counseling, and couples counseling, including non-faith based premarital counseling, discernment counseling, sex therapy, and more. Our mission is to provide culturally competent, social justice oriented, queer affirming, and trauma informed therapeutic services to clients who want to actively engage in the healing process.
The LGBT+ Counseling Collaborative is a group of licensed psychotherapists who specialize in gay, queer, and gender expansive topics and themes, and have lived experiences in those communities. We work with adolescents over 14, adults, and couples to offer individual counseling, group counseling, and couples counseling, including non-faith based premarital counseling, discernment counseling, sex therapy, and more. Our mission is to provide culturally competent, social justice oriented, queer affirming, and trauma informed therapeutic services to clients who want to actively engage in the healing process.
(571) 556-9869 View (571) 556-9869
Photo of Dr. Chloe Goldbach, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Chloe Goldbach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
Chloe specializes in working LGBTQIA+ individuals (especially transgender, nonbinary, and asexual individuals), outpatient disordered eating and body image concerns, complex and acute PTSD, DBT skills building, women's issues, identity exploration, resilience, mindfulness, career concerns, and insomnia/sleep concerns.
With dozens of psychological journal publications to her name, Chloe Goldbach is a licensed psychologist and PsyPact provider who received her PhD in Counseling Psychology from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. Chloe is a lesbian, gray-asexual, transgender woman-identified clinician who is deeply passionate about helping clients understand how the unique intersection of their identities, cultural backgrounds, and social context can inform experiences of trauma, sources of strength and community, and shape other life challenges.
Chloe specializes in working LGBTQIA+ individuals (especially transgender, nonbinary, and asexual individuals), outpatient disordered eating and body image concerns, complex and acute PTSD, DBT skills building, women's issues, identity exploration, resilience, mindfulness, career concerns, and insomnia/sleep concerns.
With dozens of psychological journal publications to her name, Chloe Goldbach is a licensed psychologist and PsyPact provider who received her PhD in Counseling Psychology from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. Chloe is a lesbian, gray-asexual, transgender woman-identified clinician who is deeply passionate about helping clients understand how the unique intersection of their identities, cultural backgrounds, and social context can inform experiences of trauma, sources of strength and community, and shape other life challenges.
(571) 604-5617 View (571) 604-5617
Photo of Roland Scheppske, MA, LPC-R, Pre-Licensed Professional
Roland Scheppske
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-R
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
Roland loves working with the aromantic and asexual community, failure-to-launch young adults, queer veterans and military families, those with people pleasing tendencies, the gay male population, and people working on improving their abilities to self-advocate and empower themselves.
With over 12 years in the medical field, Roland utilizes the relationship between the client and therapist to facilitate forward growth and healing, with the goal of becoming the best version of themselves. Roland uses a variety of therapeutic approaches, including experiential and reality-based approaches to highlight implementing changes in the here & now. As a big proponent of creating connections, Roland makes the therapy setting conversational and comfortable to promote safety and collaboration in the therapeutic space.
Roland loves working with the aromantic and asexual community, failure-to-launch young adults, queer veterans and military families, those with people pleasing tendencies, the gay male population, and people working on improving their abilities to self-advocate and empower themselves.
With over 12 years in the medical field, Roland utilizes the relationship between the client and therapist to facilitate forward growth and healing, with the goal of becoming the best version of themselves. Roland uses a variety of therapeutic approaches, including experiential and reality-based approaches to highlight implementing changes in the here & now. As a big proponent of creating connections, Roland makes the therapy setting conversational and comfortable to promote safety and collaboration in the therapeutic space.
(571) 470-5428 View (571) 470-5428
Photo of Sara Mindel, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Mindel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
I am a passionate about working with LGBTQ+ and BIPOC folx and I work towards healing the emotional experience and bodies, in all bodies, including all sizes (HAES), genders, and relationship orientations including kink, poly and ethical monogamy.
Satisfaction, joy and self-awareness are key elements to a fulfilling life. Although that seems easier said than done, I believe that we can find these elements with encouraging support and guidance. I am a committed, compassionate therapist who is ready to help you uncover your inner strengths to make the changes you want and live a more gratifying life. I believe that we all take a journey to find ourselves, but it becomes even more difficult when we are burdened by depression, addiction and/or trauma. Finding the right fit can help us get through difficult times, creating positive relationship is paramount to our happiness.
I am a passionate about working with LGBTQ+ and BIPOC folx and I work towards healing the emotional experience and bodies, in all bodies, including all sizes (HAES), genders, and relationship orientations including kink, poly and ethical monogamy.
Satisfaction, joy and self-awareness are key elements to a fulfilling life. Although that seems easier said than done, I believe that we can find these elements with encouraging support and guidance. I am a committed, compassionate therapist who is ready to help you uncover your inner strengths to make the changes you want and live a more gratifying life. I believe that we all take a journey to find ourselves, but it becomes even more difficult when we are burdened by depression, addiction and/or trauma. Finding the right fit can help us get through difficult times, creating positive relationship is paramount to our happiness.
(301) 246-8159 View (301) 246-8159
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
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036  (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 Robyn S. Zeiger, PhD, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Robyn S. Zeiger
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
For the past 4 decades plus, I have specialized in LGBTQ issues. I currently focus on gender identity issues and assist my transgender clients with navigating their often challenging journeys. As an "out" cisgender lesbian practitioner, I strive to help my LGBTQ clients travel from a place of shame to pride. Much of our work centers on self- esteem and the ways in which homophobia and transphobia impact so many areas of our lives-including family, career, and our intimate relationships. I love animals and also do veterinary counseling and consulting. My style is interactive and casual. I highly value your confidentiality.
For the past 4 decades plus, I have specialized in LGBTQ issues. I currently focus on gender identity issues and assist my transgender clients with navigating their often challenging journeys. As an "out" cisgender lesbian practitioner, I strive to help my LGBTQ clients travel from a place of shame to pride. Much of our work centers on self- esteem and the ways in which homophobia and transphobia impact so many areas of our lives-including family, career, and our intimate relationships. I love animals and also do veterinary counseling and consulting. My style is interactive and casual. I highly value your confidentiality.
(301) 825-5154 View (301) 825-5154
Photo of Jeannette Craigfeld, PsyD, Psychologist
Jeannette Craigfeld
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
I specialize in working with anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and relationship concerns. I work particularly well with clients who struggle with being compassionate towards themselves and need a space to understand and embrace their authentic selves so they can pursue what they truly value in life.
I specialize in working with anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and relationship concerns. I work particularly well with clients who struggle with being compassionate towards themselves and need a space to understand and embrace their authentic selves so they can pursue what they truly value in life.
(240) 339-6268 View (240) 339-6268
Photo of Bailey Franklin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bailey Franklin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
I believe that whom and how we love and express our gender deserves celebration, not just tolerance, and my approach is LGBTQIA+ and Poly/Kink Affirmative.
I believe that deep down we all make sense, and that while life can feel overwhelming and our problems too great to solve, real change is possible. My therapeutic process integrates strength-based modalities that are tailored to the unique needs of each client and centers on identifying our untapped sources of strength and resilience to break through doubt, shame and fear. With care and curiosity, we will begin the process of exploring and healing the often hidden wounds inflicted by our experiences, families and society. Working together, we can change old patterns of feeling and thinking in order to empower your authentic self.
I believe that whom and how we love and express our gender deserves celebration, not just tolerance, and my approach is LGBTQIA+ and Poly/Kink Affirmative.
I believe that deep down we all make sense, and that while life can feel overwhelming and our problems too great to solve, real change is possible. My therapeutic process integrates strength-based modalities that are tailored to the unique needs of each client and centers on identifying our untapped sources of strength and resilience to break through doubt, shame and fear. With care and curiosity, we will begin the process of exploring and healing the often hidden wounds inflicted by our experiences, families and society. Working together, we can change old patterns of feeling and thinking in order to empower your authentic self.
(571) 470-6841 View (571) 470-6841
Photo of Larissa Godfrey-Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Larissa Godfrey-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
Located in Union Market, Washington, DC, I specialize in gender and queer topics. The clients I enjoy working with the most are teens, adults, couples, and families with identities that are often seen as outside of the “typical”: transgender and gender-expansive, queer, blended families, and formerly religious. They are seeking a safe space to process challenges, practice acceptance, gain strength, and secure support, without having to explain their identity, family dynamic, or risk be criticized because of it.
Located in Union Market, Washington, DC, I specialize in gender and queer topics. The clients I enjoy working with the most are teens, adults, couples, and families with identities that are often seen as outside of the “typical”: transgender and gender-expansive, queer, blended families, and formerly religious. They are seeking a safe space to process challenges, practice acceptance, gain strength, and secure support, without having to explain their identity, family dynamic, or risk be criticized because of it.
(202) 301-4605 View (202) 301-4605
Photo of Joseph W. LaFleur - Joseph LaFleur & Associates, MSW, LICSW, CPATP, CDWF, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph LaFleur & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CPATP, CDWF, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
I work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or those feeling lonely or bored with life. I have been practicing 20 plus years and will develop a treatment regime for you. The work is meaningful, rewarding, insightful, and life-changing. Good mental health is primary since it affects everything, so let's work together on fixing things. Some of my specialties include men's issues, LGBTQ, shame, and trauma. My goal is to ensure you have a safe, comfortable environment to share and explore your thoughts and life experiences. You have the skills. I bring them to your consciousness, through courage or psychedelics
I work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or those feeling lonely or bored with life. I have been practicing 20 plus years and will develop a treatment regime for you. The work is meaningful, rewarding, insightful, and life-changing. Good mental health is primary since it affects everything, so let's work together on fixing things. Some of my specialties include men's issues, LGBTQ, shame, and trauma. My goal is to ensure you have a safe, comfortable environment to share and explore your thoughts and life experiences. You have the skills. I bring them to your consciousness, through courage or psychedelics
(202) 559-4759 View (202) 559-4759
Photo of Catie Ehrler, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catie Ehrler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
​I specialize in Eating Disorders, body image and AD/HD, and work often with LGBTQIA+, gender identity, OCD, relational trauma, interpersonal violence/domestic violence survivors.
As a therapist, I pride myself on being approachable, genuinely engaged. I strive to offer a nurturing space filled with acceptance, collaboration, and humor that is safe for all gender, sexual and cultural identities. My practice is oriented in Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT), which believes that individuals grow through connectedness. RCT is an Intersectional Feminist approach that allows me to bring social justice and multiculturalism in all forms into my work with clients. I also work within the Health and Every Size (HAES) and body neutrality models.
​I specialize in Eating Disorders, body image and AD/HD, and work often with LGBTQIA+, gender identity, OCD, relational trauma, interpersonal violence/domestic violence survivors.
As a therapist, I pride myself on being approachable, genuinely engaged. I strive to offer a nurturing space filled with acceptance, collaboration, and humor that is safe for all gender, sexual and cultural identities. My practice is oriented in Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT), which believes that individuals grow through connectedness. RCT is an Intersectional Feminist approach that allows me to bring social justice and multiculturalism in all forms into my work with clients. I also work within the Health and Every Size (HAES) and body neutrality models.
(202) 915-9209 View (202) 915-9209
Photo of Jason Powell, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20009
I am also proud to work with underserved populations such as those in the law enforcement, kink, BDSM, military, faith based and LGBTQIA+ communities.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT. My work focuses on marriage and couples therapy, specifically centered on infidelity repair, communication issues, couples in crisis, relationships on the brink, and those experiencing a range of frustrations and challenges with physical intimacy. I have been featured in Forbes, the Knot, and other leading media outlets offering my insight into relationships and communication. I would love to meet with you about your unique circumstances and how I might be able to help.
I am also proud to work with underserved populations such as those in the law enforcement, kink, BDSM, military, faith based and LGBTQIA+ communities.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT. My work focuses on marriage and couples therapy, specifically centered on infidelity repair, communication issues, couples in crisis, relationships on the brink, and those experiencing a range of frustrations and challenges with physical intimacy. I have been featured in Forbes, the Knot, and other leading media outlets offering my insight into relationships and communication. I would love to meet with you about your unique circumstances and how I might be able to help.
(202) 873-9614 View (202) 873-9614
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See more therapy options for Dupont Circle, 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.