LGBTQ+ Therapists in Friendship Heights, Washington, DC

Photo of Tim Martin, CSAT, CMAT, CPTT, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tim Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSAT, CMAT, CPTT, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Non-judgmental, compassionate care that is sex-positive and LGBTQ+ safe.
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? These issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions and compulsive behavior, as well as substance addictions. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR trauma therapy, as well. There is hope.
Non-judgmental, compassionate care that is sex-positive and LGBTQ+ safe.
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? These issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions and compulsive behavior, as well as substance addictions. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR trauma therapy, as well. There is hope.
(202) 951-8669 View (202) 951-8669
Photo of Hannah F Sugarman, PhD, Psychological Associate
Hannah F Sugarman
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20015
She has a particular passion for working with LGBTQ identifying-youth and their families.
Dr. Hannah Sugarman is a licensed psychology associate in Washington, DC. Dr. Sugarman specializes in providing engaging, empathetic, evidence-based treatment and psychoeducational evaluations that address a child’s needs at home and at school. She specializes in treating children and adolescents with emotional disorders and behavioral disorders, as well as youth who have experienced trauma. In addition to her work with Maven Psychology Group, Dr. Sugarman is a practicing school psychologist and has extensive experience understanding how a child’s traumatic experiences may impact their ability to thrive in the school setting.
She has a particular passion for working with LGBTQ identifying-youth and their families.
Dr. Hannah Sugarman is a licensed psychology associate in Washington, DC. Dr. Sugarman specializes in providing engaging, empathetic, evidence-based treatment and psychoeducational evaluations that address a child’s needs at home and at school. She specializes in treating children and adolescents with emotional disorders and behavioral disorders, as well as youth who have experienced trauma. In addition to her work with Maven Psychology Group, Dr. Sugarman is a practicing school psychologist and has extensive experience understanding how a child’s traumatic experiences may impact their ability to thrive in the school setting.
(202) 980-2733 x04 View (202) 980-2733 x04
Photo of Larry Cohen, LICSW, A-CBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larry Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, A-CBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20016
I believe that successful therapy brings about concrete change, not mere insight. I use a practical, active, goal-focused approach called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I will train and guide you in a applying a variety of strategies, skills and techniques in your your daily life that will help you achieve your your personal therapy goals. It is my aim to help you become your own personal therapist so that you can continue using the strategies, skills and techniques that you learned with me to meet future challenges on your own. I was named a Top Therapist by Washingtonian magazine, and a Fellow by the Academy of CBT.
I believe that successful therapy brings about concrete change, not mere insight. I use a practical, active, goal-focused approach called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I will train and guide you in a applying a variety of strategies, skills and techniques in your your daily life that will help you achieve your your personal therapy goals. It is my aim to help you become your own personal therapist so that you can continue using the strategies, skills and techniques that you learned with me to meet future challenges on your own. I was named a Top Therapist by Washingtonian magazine, and a Fellow by the Academy of CBT.
(202) 244-0903 View (202) 244-0903
Photo of Lisa Ades, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Ades
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20016
In my 20 years of clinical, academic, and advocacy experience, I have worked with clients who present with a wide range of issues. I specialize in recovery from trauma (particularly childhood abuse/neglect, sexual assault and domestic violence), successful movement through life transitions (young adulthood, career, parenthood, mid-life and loss), and repair of interpersonal relationships (including a specialty in couples therapy). I have advanced training in both trauma treatment and couples therapy, which uniquely positions me to treat couples where one or both partners have a trauma history.
In my 20 years of clinical, academic, and advocacy experience, I have worked with clients who present with a wide range of issues. I specialize in recovery from trauma (particularly childhood abuse/neglect, sexual assault and domestic violence), successful movement through life transitions (young adulthood, career, parenthood, mid-life and loss), and repair of interpersonal relationships (including a specialty in couples therapy). I have advanced training in both trauma treatment and couples therapy, which uniquely positions me to treat couples where one or both partners have a trauma history.
(202) 430-6361 View (202) 430-6361
Photo of Josephine A Bulkley, JD, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josephine A Bulkley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW
Verified Verified
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20016
People seek psychotherapy feeling unhappy or helpless to bring about change in their life or fulfill their dreams. Patients are overcome with symptoms of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse or other problems, which in reality are unconscious defenses, blocking repressed feelings about something that went wrong, often in childhood, which is not yet resolved. These defenses once were adaptive, by protecting and helping them survive, but are no longer effective. I help people work through their underlying grief and face their feelings (sadness, anger, disappointment, yearning, powerlessness) surrounding trauma or loss, enabling them to engage in more free, authentic, satisfying lives.
People seek psychotherapy feeling unhappy or helpless to bring about change in their life or fulfill their dreams. Patients are overcome with symptoms of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse or other problems, which in reality are unconscious defenses, blocking repressed feelings about something that went wrong, often in childhood, which is not yet resolved. These defenses once were adaptive, by protecting and helping them survive, but are no longer effective. I help people work through their underlying grief and face their feelings (sadness, anger, disappointment, yearning, powerlessness) surrounding trauma or loss, enabling them to engage in more free, authentic, satisfying lives.
(202) 883-4551 View (202) 883-4551
Photo of Maria Antonia Alfonso, MS, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Antonia Alfonso
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with the aftermath of a breakup? Feeling the weight of trauma history in your relationships? or Are you navigating the complexities of sexual health challenges, like issues related to gender, sexual orientation, sexually transmitted infections, or living with HIV/AIDS? Do you want healthy and fulfilling relationships and would like to create a more balanced life, that includes sexual pleasure and sexual safety as well, but don’t know how to start? You have landed on the right profile! Schedule a free consultation with me now.
Are you struggling with the aftermath of a breakup? Feeling the weight of trauma history in your relationships? or Are you navigating the complexities of sexual health challenges, like issues related to gender, sexual orientation, sexually transmitted infections, or living with HIV/AIDS? Do you want healthy and fulfilling relationships and would like to create a more balanced life, that includes sexual pleasure and sexual safety as well, but don’t know how to start? You have landed on the right profile! Schedule a free consultation with me now.
(866) 779-3045 View (866) 779-3045
Patricia Gershefski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20016
Clients come to me when they are dissatisfied with their lives and/or overwhelmed by a situation or stressor. I view therapy as a collaborative endeavor and work together with you to develop a treatment which incorporates your strengths, needs and life experiences. I also respect your wish to work on a specific area of concern short-term and/or to address a variety of complex issues over time. During the treatment, my clients report that they feel safe, supported and challenged by me, and that their lives are highly enriched by the experience. (See actual reviews by clients at Healthgrades.com.)
Clients come to me when they are dissatisfied with their lives and/or overwhelmed by a situation or stressor. I view therapy as a collaborative endeavor and work together with you to develop a treatment which incorporates your strengths, needs and life experiences. I also respect your wish to work on a specific area of concern short-term and/or to address a variety of complex issues over time. During the treatment, my clients report that they feel safe, supported and challenged by me, and that their lives are highly enriched by the experience. (See actual reviews by clients at Healthgrades.com.)
(240) 813-4351 View (240) 813-4351
Photo of Rosa Aurora Chavez, PhD, FABP, Analyst, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rosa Aurora Chavez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, FABP, Analyst
Verified Verified
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20015
It hurts to be in crisis not knowing where to start and how to get help, particularly these days. As a psychotherapist and a psychoanalyst I will work with you, closely listening in a safe and containing environment, so we can process painful experiences and understand patterns and behaviors that affect your wellbeing, productivity and relationships; we will work together to develop pathways towards emotional growth that could facilitate meaningful and lasting changes and healing from past traumas, leading to a more fulfilling, productive life.
It hurts to be in crisis not knowing where to start and how to get help, particularly these days. As a psychotherapist and a psychoanalyst I will work with you, closely listening in a safe and containing environment, so we can process painful experiences and understand patterns and behaviors that affect your wellbeing, productivity and relationships; we will work together to develop pathways towards emotional growth that could facilitate meaningful and lasting changes and healing from past traumas, leading to a more fulfilling, productive life.
(202) 681-4902 View (202) 681-4902
Photo of Lenka Glassman, PsyD, Psychologist
Lenka Glassman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
Choosing the right therapist is critical to achieving real results. I strive to create a compassionate and safe space where you can realize your strengths and full potential. At the same time, I use an honest and direct approach to help you achieve your goals. I work with children, teens, and adults in individual therapy and also offer parent coaching. My ultimate goal is for you to leave therapy feeling empowered, confident, and armed with the tools you need to create a life you love. I feel privileged in helping my clients on their journey to creating healthier relationships with themselves and others.
Choosing the right therapist is critical to achieving real results. I strive to create a compassionate and safe space where you can realize your strengths and full potential. At the same time, I use an honest and direct approach to help you achieve your goals. I work with children, teens, and adults in individual therapy and also offer parent coaching. My ultimate goal is for you to leave therapy feeling empowered, confident, and armed with the tools you need to create a life you love. I feel privileged in helping my clients on their journey to creating healthier relationships with themselves and others.
(202) 335-3724 View (202) 335-3724
Photo of Dr. Mariam Gregorian, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Mariam Gregorian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
When we are struggling with our mental health, the question often asked is “What’s wrong with you?” instead of “What happened to you?” Sadly, many people who have reached out for help have found themselves shamed, invalidated, and in worse shape than they were before. My goal is to provide an affirming and safe therapeutic environment for all identities, and I welcome individuals who are trying therapy for the first time, as well as those who have had previous experiences. I regularly work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and life transitions.
When we are struggling with our mental health, the question often asked is “What’s wrong with you?” instead of “What happened to you?” Sadly, many people who have reached out for help have found themselves shamed, invalidated, and in worse shape than they were before. My goal is to provide an affirming and safe therapeutic environment for all identities, and I welcome individuals who are trying therapy for the first time, as well as those who have had previous experiences. I regularly work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and life transitions.
(202) 930-8371 View (202) 930-8371
Photo of Nancy F Hensler - Nancy F. Hensler, PhD, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Nancy F. Hensler, PhD, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20016
Through 30 years' experience in university, hospital and outpatient settings, I have developed specializations in Healthy Relationships, Trauma & Abuse, Grief & Loss, Women's Empowerment, Mindful Living, & the College Experience. Trained by a pioneer in complex trauma treatment, I assist survivors regain their sense of security and self. My past career research informs my continuing passion for mentoring women in their multiple roles and across their lifespans. I help individuals, couples & groups manage stress, anxiety, depression, and pain; navigate major life transitions and losses; & repair/strengthen their relationships.
Through 30 years' experience in university, hospital and outpatient settings, I have developed specializations in Healthy Relationships, Trauma & Abuse, Grief & Loss, Women's Empowerment, Mindful Living, & the College Experience. Trained by a pioneer in complex trauma treatment, I assist survivors regain their sense of security and self. My past career research informs my continuing passion for mentoring women in their multiple roles and across their lifespans. I help individuals, couples & groups manage stress, anxiety, depression, and pain; navigate major life transitions and losses; & repair/strengthen their relationships.
(202) 760-4678 View (202) 760-4678
Photo of Jill Weber, PhD, Psychologist
Jill Weber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20015
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in Tysons Corner, Virginia and the Friendship Heights area of Northwest Washington, DC, and treat adolescents, adults, and couples. My approach is interactive, hopeful, and supportive. Some of my specialty areas include depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, and adolescent distress (including parent/teenager communication). I work in a collaborative and flexible manner. I help clients to gain greater insight into their behaviors, thought patterns, and emotional reactions. As self-awareness develops, clients report an increased sense of control over their choices, improved self-worth and, as a result, more rewarding relationships and fulfilling lives.
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in Tysons Corner, Virginia and the Friendship Heights area of Northwest Washington, DC, and treat adolescents, adults, and couples. My approach is interactive, hopeful, and supportive. Some of my specialty areas include depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, and adolescent distress (including parent/teenager communication). I work in a collaborative and flexible manner. I help clients to gain greater insight into their behaviors, thought patterns, and emotional reactions. As self-awareness develops, clients report an increased sense of control over their choices, improved self-worth and, as a result, more rewarding relationships and fulfilling lives.
(540) 822-0947 View (540) 822-0947
Photo of Alexandra Fox - Compass Rose Counseling & Consultation, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Compass Rose Counseling & Consultation, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Our mission is to ensure that individuals of every race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, and political and religious affiliation are provided a safe space to receive high quality mental health care. Our clinicians are trained to utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities such as psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to support and empower a diverse population.
Our mission is to ensure that individuals of every race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, and political and religious affiliation are provided a safe space to receive high quality mental health care. Our clinicians are trained to utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities such as psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to support and empower a diverse population.
(202) 919-8859 View (202) 919-8859
Photo of John Rooney, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Rooney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
You are struggling. Maybe this is something you have grappled with for a long time, or maybe this is something that you have recently found yourself struggling with? Maybe this is about changes in your outside world, your internal world or both? You have already tried to address this, but it is still a problem. We will work together to identify and explore your behaviors, beliefs, feelings, and thoughts that have become problematic for you, As you gain more insight into yourself you will be better able to make more deliberate choices rather than fallback on your old ways of being, ways that probably worked well in your past.
You are struggling. Maybe this is something you have grappled with for a long time, or maybe this is something that you have recently found yourself struggling with? Maybe this is about changes in your outside world, your internal world or both? You have already tried to address this, but it is still a problem. We will work together to identify and explore your behaviors, beliefs, feelings, and thoughts that have become problematic for you, As you gain more insight into yourself you will be better able to make more deliberate choices rather than fallback on your old ways of being, ways that probably worked well in your past.
(571) 339-0292 View (571) 339-0292
Photo of Dr. Ashley Alderette, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Ashley Alderette
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Friendship Heights, Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to find a healthy work life balance, feeling overwhelmed in your professional or academic life, and/or not able to make time for yourself or your loved ones? Do you often ask yourself, why does it seem like everyone has it together except me? Do you wish that you had a significant other, but feel lost in the dating world? Perhaps you find that your thoughts keep you up at night, or you are dealing with feelings of sadness that are interfering with your personal and professional/ academic growth. Maybe you find that your worries keep you from making friends or connecting with others.
Are you struggling to find a healthy work life balance, feeling overwhelmed in your professional or academic life, and/or not able to make time for yourself or your loved ones? Do you often ask yourself, why does it seem like everyone has it together except me? Do you wish that you had a significant other, but feel lost in the dating world? Perhaps you find that your thoughts keep you up at night, or you are dealing with feelings of sadness that are interfering with your personal and professional/ academic growth. Maybe you find that your worries keep you from making friends or connecting with others.
(561) 269-2363 View (561) 269-2363

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Kenya A. Ford, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Dr. Kenya A. Ford
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with all minorities in society, including LGBTQ+ folx. I have experience working through taboo topics, trauma, racial identity and women's issues, and am vocal about my stance on social justice when necessary. I use an integrative approach to therapy to tailor sessions to the specific needs of each of my clients. I am humanistic, person-centered in my approach and facilitate interpersonal relational work. I am always strength based and really enjoy working with Black folx & people of color, but I am willing to work with anyone who is ready to work through current life stressors in non judgmental space.
I am passionate about working with all minorities in society, including LGBTQ+ folx. I have experience working through taboo topics, trauma, racial identity and women's issues, and am vocal about my stance on social justice when necessary. I use an integrative approach to therapy to tailor sessions to the specific needs of each of my clients. I am humanistic, person-centered in my approach and facilitate interpersonal relational work. I am always strength based and really enjoy working with Black folx & people of color, but I am willing to work with anyone who is ready to work through current life stressors in non judgmental space.
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Photo of Douglas Gotel - Gotel & Thrive, PLLC, LICSW, LCSW-C, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gotel & Thrive, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Gotel & Thrive is the restorative space for queer and heterosexual men of color, women of color, and children & youth of diverse backgrounds to undo the thinking and behaviors that block joy and provide tools to cope when life forces you to pivot.
You are trying to shine bright like a diamond and have the things most of us desire for a good life. But there is something dimming your brilliance—it constricts you. You know, those feelings of doubt, dread, disgruntlement, desperation, or despair. Like that constant wondering about whether you are viewed as competent at work; like that disappointment you cover up with food, drink or overachieving because you haven’t met “the one;” like that hurt you carry from a past that shamed you or the depths of grief; or like the helplessness feel when your child is struggling.
Gotel & Thrive is the restorative space for queer and heterosexual men of color, women of color, and children & youth of diverse backgrounds to undo the thinking and behaviors that block joy and provide tools to cope when life forces you to pivot.
You are trying to shine bright like a diamond and have the things most of us desire for a good life. But there is something dimming your brilliance—it constricts you. You know, those feelings of doubt, dread, disgruntlement, desperation, or despair. Like that constant wondering about whether you are viewed as competent at work; like that disappointment you cover up with food, drink or overachieving because you haven’t met “the one;” like that hurt you carry from a past that shamed you or the depths of grief; or like the helplessness feel when your child is struggling.
(202) 980-2433 View (202) 980-2433
Photo of David O. Avruch, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David O. Avruch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I identify as queer, Jewish, white, and male/cis-male.
Being fully seen and fully accepted by one’s life partner is a universal human need, the stuff of spirituality - an experience felt in the soul, not just the mind or the heart. Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) provides a roadmap for how to get there. In my career I've seen a lot and worked with many different kinds of individuals; hence, I'm professional and nonjudgmental. While I enjoy being a social worker and therapist for all types of humans, my private practice is focused primarily on serving queer and trans couples. My office is located in Baltimore; I am also licensed in DC and serve couples there remotely.
I identify as queer, Jewish, white, and male/cis-male.
Being fully seen and fully accepted by one’s life partner is a universal human need, the stuff of spirituality - an experience felt in the soul, not just the mind or the heart. Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) provides a roadmap for how to get there. In my career I've seen a lot and worked with many different kinds of individuals; hence, I'm professional and nonjudgmental. While I enjoy being a social worker and therapist for all types of humans, my private practice is focused primarily on serving queer and trans couples. My office is located in Baltimore; I am also licensed in DC and serve couples there remotely.
(410) 734-2020 View (410) 734-2020
Photo of Miranda Jean, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miranda Jean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
As an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, I create a space where clients feel respected, understood and accepted for who they are, without judgment or bias.
Are you struggling with your sexuality or gender identity? Do you need help coming out? Is dating creating a lot of anxiety for you? If so, you've come to the right place. I'm a queer-identifying therapist with the knowledge and lived experience to help clients within the LGBTQ+ community and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. Working from a strength-based and person-centered foundation, I help adults with anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and life transitions.
As an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, I create a space where clients feel respected, understood and accepted for who they are, without judgment or bias.
Are you struggling with your sexuality or gender identity? Do you need help coming out? Is dating creating a lot of anxiety for you? If so, you've come to the right place. I'm a queer-identifying therapist with the knowledge and lived experience to help clients within the LGBTQ+ community and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. Working from a strength-based and person-centered foundation, I help adults with anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and life transitions.
(833) 559-3151 View (833) 559-3151
Photo of Joshua Kline, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Joshua Kline
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I work with adults, with a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+, and young adults transitioning to college and the workforce.
I believe in providing a safe, judgment-free, and supportive space for my clients. From a cognitive-behavioral approach, I aim to balance symptom relief in the present while managing life’s challenges and uncertainties. Along with this, I help develop insights and depth into why one’s struggles may be happening. I value a strong therapeutic relationship as a channel for understanding and a way to foster open and honest dialogue. My therapy style can be described as compassionate, direct, solution-oriented, and mind-body-focused. Together, we will create a personalized and flexible plan to create a more authentic and fulfilling life.
I work with adults, with a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+, and young adults transitioning to college and the workforce.
I believe in providing a safe, judgment-free, and supportive space for my clients. From a cognitive-behavioral approach, I aim to balance symptom relief in the present while managing life’s challenges and uncertainties. Along with this, I help develop insights and depth into why one’s struggles may be happening. I value a strong therapeutic relationship as a channel for understanding and a way to foster open and honest dialogue. My therapy style can be described as compassionate, direct, solution-oriented, and mind-body-focused. Together, we will create a personalized and flexible plan to create a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(202) 816-7916 View (202) 816-7916

See more therapy options for Friendship Heights, 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.