Therapists in Dupont Circle, Washington, DC

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 Jocelyn V Vara, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jocelyn V Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
I have worked with people who identify as trans and non-binary, as well as people who identify as queer, pansexual and LGB.
Are you standing at a crossroads tempted to turn around because you're not sure how to take your next step? Do the "what if" scenarios that cycle through your mind make it difficult for you to make decisions and fall asleep at night? Do you feel stuck daydreaming of the life you want certain that it will only ever be a place you imagine? Does all of this make it hard to get out of bed some days, full of dread when you finally do, and likely to isolate from those you love?
I have worked with people who identify as trans and non-binary, as well as people who identify as queer, pansexual and LGB.
Are you standing at a crossroads tempted to turn around because you're not sure how to take your next step? Do the "what if" scenarios that cycle through your mind make it difficult for you to make decisions and fall asleep at night? Do you feel stuck daydreaming of the life you want certain that it will only ever be a place you imagine? Does all of this make it hard to get out of bed some days, full of dread when you finally do, and likely to isolate from those you love?
(202) 946-5059 View (202) 946-5059
Photo of Jermaine Boston (Graves), MA, LCPC, LPC, BCPC, Counselor
Jermaine Boston (Graves)
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, BCPC
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) serving children, adolescents, individuals, couples, college/graduate students, and LGBTQ clients. I have specialized in providing services to adolescents and their families for more than 25 years. I am licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have been practicing as a Mental Health Clinician for 14 years providing services in group homes, communities, educational, and private practice settings. At Peace of Mind Therapy, LLC, we offer services by other Licensed Professional Counselors or Licensed Social Workers that are Qualified, Capable, & Culturally Competent.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) serving children, adolescents, individuals, couples, college/graduate students, and LGBTQ clients. I have specialized in providing services to adolescents and their families for more than 25 years. I am licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have been practicing as a Mental Health Clinician for 14 years providing services in group homes, communities, educational, and private practice settings. At Peace of Mind Therapy, LLC, we offer services by other Licensed Professional Counselors or Licensed Social Workers that are Qualified, Capable, & Culturally Competent.
(240) 428-6710 View (240) 428-6710
Photo of Freedom's Flow Pllc, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Freedom's Flow Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I work with partnerships that are monogamous, polyamorous and LGBTQIA+ I'm here for you as you navigate your invaluable journey towards Emotional Freedom and unleash your gifts.
New you, new flow! Have you been able to process how your nervous system is adjusting to life's stressors? I take an empathetic and affirming approach and I acknowledge that doing the inner work can be difficult. I'm proud of you for considering & investing in yourself. I work with clients who are BI&POC-Black Indigenous and People of Color. I enjoy empowering clients as they explore how their nervous system is responding to past and current experiences. Your relationships, career and dreams are evolving and when you win, I win!
I work with partnerships that are monogamous, polyamorous and LGBTQIA+ I'm here for you as you navigate your invaluable journey towards Emotional Freedom and unleash your gifts.
New you, new flow! Have you been able to process how your nervous system is adjusting to life's stressors? I take an empathetic and affirming approach and I acknowledge that doing the inner work can be difficult. I'm proud of you for considering & investing in yourself. I work with clients who are BI&POC-Black Indigenous and People of Color. I enjoy empowering clients as they explore how their nervous system is responding to past and current experiences. Your relationships, career and dreams are evolving and when you win, I win!
(202) 866-2115 View (202) 866-2115
Photo of Jami Murray - M&K Counseling Associates Inc, EdD, Licensed Professional Counselor
M&K Counseling Associates Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
Our staff are trained in evidence-based practices including the following therapeutic approaches: Phase Based Trauma Focused Therapy, DBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, and LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy.
Hello everyone, I'm Emarie! I am a therapist at M&K Counseling Associates inc., which is a group private practice offering office and video psychotherapy sessions in DC and Virginia. Our staff are highly trained professionals who operate from a holistic, trauma-informed, and systemically aware perspective. We partner with our clients by providing a safe comfortable space so they can explore their life challenges, and collectively establish goals that foster self-empowerment and self-betterment. We specialize in working with young adults and professionals in the DMV area.
Our staff are trained in evidence-based practices including the following therapeutic approaches: Phase Based Trauma Focused Therapy, DBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, and LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy.
Hello everyone, I'm Emarie! I am a therapist at M&K Counseling Associates inc., which is a group private practice offering office and video psychotherapy sessions in DC and Virginia. Our staff are highly trained professionals who operate from a holistic, trauma-informed, and systemically aware perspective. We partner with our clients by providing a safe comfortable space so they can explore their life challenges, and collectively establish goals that foster self-empowerment and self-betterment. We specialize in working with young adults and professionals in the DMV area.
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Photo of Christine Vara, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
I have worked extensively with families of and individuals who are trans and non-binary, as well as people who identify as poly, kink, pansexual, and/or LGB.
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
I have worked extensively with families of and individuals who are trans and non-binary, as well as people who identify as poly, kink, pansexual, and/or LGB.
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
(240) 201-2713 View (240) 201-2713
Photo of Lottena Wolters - The F.L. Wolters Group, LPC, Counselor
The F.L. Wolters Group
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
Are you grappling with intense emotions, navigating life transitions, or seeking a space for open conversation and self-discovery? Do you experience anxiety, tension, or overwhelm, or wonder why you feel irritable, tearful, or unable to enjoy your usual activities? In times of stress, people often withdraw or adopt other unhealthy habits, only to find it makes the situation worse. Our therapists can support you in overcoming these challenges. We are an inclusive, multicultural and LGBTQIA+ affirming practice and we welcome all of who you are. We are accepting new clients!
Are you grappling with intense emotions, navigating life transitions, or seeking a space for open conversation and self-discovery? Do you experience anxiety, tension, or overwhelm, or wonder why you feel irritable, tearful, or unable to enjoy your usual activities? In times of stress, people often withdraw or adopt other unhealthy habits, only to find it makes the situation worse. Our therapists can support you in overcoming these challenges. We are an inclusive, multicultural and LGBTQIA+ affirming practice and we welcome all of who you are. We are accepting new clients!
(202) 978-1413 View (202) 978-1413
Photo of Luba Roytburd, PhD, Psychologist
Luba Roytburd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, those dealing with adjusting to a new a culture, and individuals for whom cultural differences create challenges in family relationships.
Feeling different? Do you have a sense that people don’t get you? Do you travel a different path than everybody else? Are you living your life very differently from what other people expect you to? Life can be tough when you feel different. Different can also mean isolated, lonely, and misunderstood. But you can be different and still fit in. That's where I can help.
I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, those dealing with adjusting to a new a culture, and individuals for whom cultural differences create challenges in family relationships.
Feeling different? Do you have a sense that people don’t get you? Do you travel a different path than everybody else? Are you living your life very differently from what other people expect you to? Life can be tough when you feel different. Different can also mean isolated, lonely, and misunderstood. But you can be different and still fit in. That's where I can help.
(301) 329-2377 View (301) 329-2377
Photo of Christine H. Wang, PhD, Psychologist
Christine H. Wang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
I provide psychotherapy/counseling to children/teens experiencing anxiety (separation, social, excessive worry, panic, and phobias), depression and/or ADHD. In addition, I specialize in anxiety, stress & depression that is specifically tied to (1) health/medical problems (e.g., type 1 diabetes, picky eating/ARFID, food allergy, chronic pain, GI, sleep, etc) and/or (2) identity concerns (race/ethnicity, LGBTQIA+, religion). Lastly, I have a specialization in preschool mental health through providing Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for anxiety and temper tantrums/moodiness in young children.
I provide psychotherapy/counseling to children/teens experiencing anxiety (separation, social, excessive worry, panic, and phobias), depression and/or ADHD. In addition, I specialize in anxiety, stress & depression that is specifically tied to (1) health/medical problems (e.g., type 1 diabetes, picky eating/ARFID, food allergy, chronic pain, GI, sleep, etc) and/or (2) identity concerns (race/ethnicity, LGBTQIA+, religion). Lastly, I have a specialization in preschool mental health through providing Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for anxiety and temper tantrums/moodiness in young children.
(301) 205-5209 View (301) 205-5209
Photo of Toshiko Barton - Wellness Blooms Therapy Services, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wellness Blooms Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I am committed to serving those who are marginalized and respect all and am devoted to the provision of quality services for people of color, LGBTQ , polyamorous folk and others who live outside the narrow range of "mainstream.
Are you experiencing a major life transition or challenge? Are you having difficulty regulating your emotions and coping with various life stressors? As your therapist, I will help you develop goals and strategies to manage difficult feelings and frustrations, and increase your self-understanding and acceptance. I aim to provide a safe place to listen and understand my clients in an environment that is focused on healing with the use of supportive techniques. Through the use of Evidence-Based Practices) most closely aligned with your needs we will decrease stress/anxiety, improve mood, and increase focus and healthy habits.
I am committed to serving those who are marginalized and respect all and am devoted to the provision of quality services for people of color, LGBTQ , polyamorous folk and others who live outside the narrow range of "mainstream.
Are you experiencing a major life transition or challenge? Are you having difficulty regulating your emotions and coping with various life stressors? As your therapist, I will help you develop goals and strategies to manage difficult feelings and frustrations, and increase your self-understanding and acceptance. I aim to provide a safe place to listen and understand my clients in an environment that is focused on healing with the use of supportive techniques. Through the use of Evidence-Based Practices) most closely aligned with your needs we will decrease stress/anxiety, improve mood, and increase focus and healthy habits.
(301) 205-5377 View (301) 205-5377
Photo of Natalia Schuermann, LPC Intern
Natalia Schuermann
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Individuals and couples work with me to gain insight and address thought, behavior, relationship and mood patterns that affect their mental health and overall wellbeing. We explore, identify and implement coping strategies to improve or mange guilt, impulsivity, self image, shame, grief, transitions, infidelity, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship stress, identity confusion and more. You'll develop skills to identify feelings; communicate effectively; manage conflict in relationships; reframe irrational thoughts; regulate emotions; change or leverage behaviors; increase distress tolerance; improve interpersonal skills and more.
Individuals and couples work with me to gain insight and address thought, behavior, relationship and mood patterns that affect their mental health and overall wellbeing. We explore, identify and implement coping strategies to improve or mange guilt, impulsivity, self image, shame, grief, transitions, infidelity, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship stress, identity confusion and more. You'll develop skills to identify feelings; communicate effectively; manage conflict in relationships; reframe irrational thoughts; regulate emotions; change or leverage behaviors; increase distress tolerance; improve interpersonal skills and more.
(240) 222-5326 View (240) 222-5326
Photo of Nicole Moore, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who believes that everyone possesses the strengths and resources to overcome life’s challenges- even if sometimes we need a little assistance. I view seeking help as a sign of great strength. My role as a therapist is to help you better know and understand yourself. We will use this insight to build upon your innate abilities and strengths to understand obstacles, overcome challenges, and pave a way forward. I work with a Service Dog, Finn, who provides a gentle, loving presence that can be very comforting, anxiety reducing, and uplifting in sessions.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who believes that everyone possesses the strengths and resources to overcome life’s challenges- even if sometimes we need a little assistance. I view seeking help as a sign of great strength. My role as a therapist is to help you better know and understand yourself. We will use this insight to build upon your innate abilities and strengths to understand obstacles, overcome challenges, and pave a way forward. I work with a Service Dog, Finn, who provides a gentle, loving presence that can be very comforting, anxiety reducing, and uplifting in sessions.
(202) 915-5676 View (202) 915-5676
Photo of Helen DeVinney, PsyD, Psychologist
Helen DeVinney
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20009
If you're looking for a therapist, there's a good chance you feel like "something" in your life isn't working -- perhaps within yourself, a relationship, or your career. Sometimes it's hard to know what that "something" is, and, other times, the feeling may be directly connected to a specific event, relationship, or personality trait. As your therapist, I will work with you at a pace that feels manageable, and together we will reflect on what feels like it's not working and identify possibilities that may bring relief or change.
If you're looking for a therapist, there's a good chance you feel like "something" in your life isn't working -- perhaps within yourself, a relationship, or your career. Sometimes it's hard to know what that "something" is, and, other times, the feeling may be directly connected to a specific event, relationship, or personality trait. As your therapist, I will work with you at a pace that feels manageable, and together we will reflect on what feels like it's not working and identify possibilities that may bring relief or change.
(410) 793-1307 View (410) 793-1307
Photo of Robert Sheavly - Central Washington Psychotherapy Associates, LICSW, DCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Central Washington Psychotherapy Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20009
CWPA is an association of professionals which provides a broad spectrum of psychotherapy, psychiatry and mental health wellness services. Our offices are located in Northwest DC, Dupont Circle, Woodley Park, Takoma Park, and in Alexandria. Regardless if you are seeking coaching or short-term counseling for a specific issue, traditional psychotherapy, medication management, therapy for your child, couples therapy or even depth psychoanalysis, we have skilled professionals who will help you meet your goals. we offer a wide variety of treatment modalities and areas of specialization. The therapists in our referral network, which are some of the best in the city, are exceptionally qualified.
CWPA is an association of professionals which provides a broad spectrum of psychotherapy, psychiatry and mental health wellness services. Our offices are located in Northwest DC, Dupont Circle, Woodley Park, Takoma Park, and in Alexandria. Regardless if you are seeking coaching or short-term counseling for a specific issue, traditional psychotherapy, medication management, therapy for your child, couples therapy or even depth psychoanalysis, we have skilled professionals who will help you meet your goals. we offer a wide variety of treatment modalities and areas of specialization. The therapists in our referral network, which are some of the best in the city, are exceptionally qualified.
(202) 601-3726 View (202) 601-3726
Photo of Dr. Gabrielle Yundt, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Gabrielle Yundt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
I'm glad you're here. Making the decision to begin therapy takes courage to ask for the help you need. I am passionate about my work with clients and find great meaning and value in being part of this chapter of your life. I primarily have experience working with anxiety, and depression, as well as relational, acute, and childhood traumas. I have specialized training in the integration of spirituality and psychological concerns including crisis of faith and/or navigating sexuality.
I'm glad you're here. Making the decision to begin therapy takes courage to ask for the help you need. I am passionate about my work with clients and find great meaning and value in being part of this chapter of your life. I primarily have experience working with anxiety, and depression, as well as relational, acute, and childhood traumas. I have specialized training in the integration of spirituality and psychological concerns including crisis of faith and/or navigating sexuality.
(202) 919-7307 View (202) 919-7307
Photo of Elaina Vasserman-Stokes, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elaina Vasserman-Stokes
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
My clinical expertise is in issues related to emotional regulation, trauma, loss, and early life attachment experiences. I have a particular interest in supporting parents of young children (particularly at this time and in relationship to COVID-related school and care transitions). My approach can broadly be described as insight oriented and rooted in attachment, relational, and interpersonal theories as well as self-psychology. My expertise rests on meaningful personal experiences and on continuing rigorous training and teaching.
My clinical expertise is in issues related to emotional regulation, trauma, loss, and early life attachment experiences. I have a particular interest in supporting parents of young children (particularly at this time and in relationship to COVID-related school and care transitions). My approach can broadly be described as insight oriented and rooted in attachment, relational, and interpersonal theories as well as self-psychology. My expertise rests on meaningful personal experiences and on continuing rigorous training and teaching.
(240) 607-5480 View (240) 607-5480
Photo of Victoria Steele - Wanderwell Therapy, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Steele - Wanderwell Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Feeling lost or disconnected? Ready to explore, discover, or embrace your true self? My work is to guide and inspire; giving you the freedom to wander, appreciate the meaning you make from your adventures, and notice the patterns in your life from a place of curiosity and compassion. We examine your interactions with others, the experiences that have shaped you, and identify your unique strengths to help you achieve your goals. Together, we will foster healing from pain-whether that pain looks like depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual dysfunction, or dissatisfaction in your relationships.
Feeling lost or disconnected? Ready to explore, discover, or embrace your true self? My work is to guide and inspire; giving you the freedom to wander, appreciate the meaning you make from your adventures, and notice the patterns in your life from a place of curiosity and compassion. We examine your interactions with others, the experiences that have shaped you, and identify your unique strengths to help you achieve your goals. Together, we will foster healing from pain-whether that pain looks like depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual dysfunction, or dissatisfaction in your relationships.
(202) 517-2910 View (202) 517-2910
Photo of Katie Schwartz, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
Some of my favorite words to live by are, "if nothing changes, nothing changes". You deserve the opportunity to feel your best and I would be honored to help you on your way towards emotional healing and self-discovery. The best part of being a therapist is getting to witness and learn from all of the unique strengths and coping skills that everyone possesses, and helping them identify and access those gifts. I love working with people in all stages of life, and truly believe in the healing power of a strong, therapeutic relationship.
Some of my favorite words to live by are, "if nothing changes, nothing changes". You deserve the opportunity to feel your best and I would be honored to help you on your way towards emotional healing and self-discovery. The best part of being a therapist is getting to witness and learn from all of the unique strengths and coping skills that everyone possesses, and helping them identify and access those gifts. I love working with people in all stages of life, and truly believe in the healing power of a strong, therapeutic relationship.
(202) 729-9476 View (202) 729-9476
Photo of Julie Mitchell, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
Welcome! My primary goal as a therapist is to help you feel safe and comfortable exploring your concerns and challenges with me. Therapy can be both a difficult and rewarding endeavor, and I feel lucky to get to share with my clients in their fears, hopes, and joys. My hope is to help you feel comfortable and understood in delving into your own life and identifying areas where you wish for change. In my practice, I integrate elements of mindfulness, humanistic, and psychodynamic therapies to help you find new ways to relate to difficult emotions.
Welcome! My primary goal as a therapist is to help you feel safe and comfortable exploring your concerns and challenges with me. Therapy can be both a difficult and rewarding endeavor, and I feel lucky to get to share with my clients in their fears, hopes, and joys. My hope is to help you feel comfortable and understood in delving into your own life and identifying areas where you wish for change. In my practice, I integrate elements of mindfulness, humanistic, and psychodynamic therapies to help you find new ways to relate to difficult emotions.
(202) 813-1656 View (202) 813-1656
Photo of Rachel Painter, MA, LPCC, LGPC, Counselor
Rachel Painter
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LGPC
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
I've worked with a wide range of individuals who have been deeply impacted by trauma due to family conflict, instability, and hardship. I have specialized experience working with trauma-related mental illness and attempt to create a brave space for clients to process their most vulnerable experiences. I enjoy being creative and collaborative with my clients while acknowledging each individual's intrinsic value and worth. I strive to provide an inclusive environment for my clients, giving empathy, acceptance, and empowerment to help them overcome shame and the overwhelming way their trauma impacts their lives.
I've worked with a wide range of individuals who have been deeply impacted by trauma due to family conflict, instability, and hardship. I have specialized experience working with trauma-related mental illness and attempt to create a brave space for clients to process their most vulnerable experiences. I enjoy being creative and collaborative with my clients while acknowledging each individual's intrinsic value and worth. I strive to provide an inclusive environment for my clients, giving empathy, acceptance, and empowerment to help them overcome shame and the overwhelming way their trauma impacts their lives.
(202) 915-5627 View (202) 915-5627

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.