LGBTQ+ Therapists in Georgetown, Washington, DC

Photo of Amy Griffo, LPC, NCC, MAED, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Griffo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MAED
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20057  (Online Only)
As a lesbian, divorced, ex-christian therapist, I understand the struggles and triumphs of embracing your authentic self in the face of societal expectations.
Something has changed and you feel ready to face what is holding you back. You are done living a life to make others happy. You are constantly on edge & irritable. You feel trapped in old habits & narratives. You've said: "Enough. I'm ready to face my pain and trauma". If you relate, I can help. As a trauma therapist who specializes in EMDR and Brainspotting, I offer you a safe space to heal. Imagine a future where you make choices that are aligned with your true self. Imagine it's possible that you are thriving instead of surviving. Send me a message if you live in Virginia or Washington DC and let's begin your journey today!
As a lesbian, divorced, ex-christian therapist, I understand the struggles and triumphs of embracing your authentic self in the face of societal expectations.
Something has changed and you feel ready to face what is holding you back. You are done living a life to make others happy. You are constantly on edge & irritable. You feel trapped in old habits & narratives. You've said: "Enough. I'm ready to face my pain and trauma". If you relate, I can help. As a trauma therapist who specializes in EMDR and Brainspotting, I offer you a safe space to heal. Imagine a future where you make choices that are aligned with your true self. Imagine it's possible that you are thriving instead of surviving. Send me a message if you live in Virginia or Washington DC and let's begin your journey today!
(571) 520-6255 View (571) 520-6255
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
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007
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 Jason Nicholsen, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason Nicholsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007
I have a professional focus in working with members of LGBTQIA communities.
I started this virtual-based therapy practice so that I could connect with individuals struggling to feel connected in their lives. There are no judgements. Together, we can explore the resilience and strength you already have and take action towards a richer, fuller life.  I have a Master's degree in Social Work from New York University and utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with an eclectic mix of other evidence-informed interventions to support you and your goals.
I have a professional focus in working with members of LGBTQIA communities.
I started this virtual-based therapy practice so that I could connect with individuals struggling to feel connected in their lives. There are no judgements. Together, we can explore the resilience and strength you already have and take action towards a richer, fuller life.  I have a Master's degree in Social Work from New York University and utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with an eclectic mix of other evidence-informed interventions to support you and your goals.
(202) 568-8621 View (202) 568-8621
Photo of Miranda Jean, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miranda Jean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007  (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 Morgan Carrillo, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Carrillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20057  (Online Only)
I have a particular interest in providing support to members of the LGBTQ+ community & those on a pregnancy, parenting, or fertility journey.
Whether you are conflicted about a relationship, are adjusting to a life change, or are working to heal from past pain or trauma, it can be a challenge to know where to begin. Together, we will work to explore your concerns and harness your strengths to identify solutions to your stressors. My goal is that you will leave therapy with a range of skills to use in the future. I believe that you are the expert of your own experience, and I am passionate about helping you to build upon your already existing strengths.
I have a particular interest in providing support to members of the LGBTQ+ community & those on a pregnancy, parenting, or fertility journey.
Whether you are conflicted about a relationship, are adjusting to a life change, or are working to heal from past pain or trauma, it can be a challenge to know where to begin. Together, we will work to explore your concerns and harness your strengths to identify solutions to your stressors. My goal is that you will leave therapy with a range of skills to use in the future. I believe that you are the expert of your own experience, and I am passionate about helping you to build upon your already existing strengths.
(202) 601-3569 View (202) 601-3569
Photo of John Perry, MA, NCC
John Perry
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007
I am a Resident in Counseling based in Virginia, possessing a particular passion for addressing a diverse array of issues, including those related to the LGBTQIA+ community, relational conflicts, life transitions, depression, anxiety, multicultural concerns, identity exploration, suicidal ideation, trauma, legal system challenges, and personality disorders. In my therapeutic approach, I emphasize the importance of fostering a collaborative and secure space for clients to navigate their current struggles, confront challenges, and explore avenues for healthy community connections through an empathetic and trauma-informed lens.
I am a Resident in Counseling based in Virginia, possessing a particular passion for addressing a diverse array of issues, including those related to the LGBTQIA+ community, relational conflicts, life transitions, depression, anxiety, multicultural concerns, identity exploration, suicidal ideation, trauma, legal system challenges, and personality disorders. In my therapeutic approach, I emphasize the importance of fostering a collaborative and secure space for clients to navigate their current struggles, confront challenges, and explore avenues for healthy community connections through an empathetic and trauma-informed lens.
(571) 454-8723 View (571) 454-8723
Photo of Dr. Nadia Alsamadi, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Nadia Alsamadi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007
As a queer, non-binary, bicultural Palestinian American, I have experience working with LGBTQ+, and second generation immigrants.
You may feel constantly distracted from the present moment or like you’re on autopilot. Our minds often hand us thoughts that are distressing and it’s very easy to become wrapped up and stuck in them! I enjoy working with folks to disempower negative thoughts and get back to the things and people that are important to them. Together, we’ll work on developing a more compassionate and non-judgmental understanding of how your relationships, culture, and oppressive experiences have shaped your behaviors. By reclaiming your narrative, we can forge a path towards meaningful change that's rooted in your values.
As a queer, non-binary, bicultural Palestinian American, I have experience working with LGBTQ+, and second generation immigrants.
You may feel constantly distracted from the present moment or like you’re on autopilot. Our minds often hand us thoughts that are distressing and it’s very easy to become wrapped up and stuck in them! I enjoy working with folks to disempower negative thoughts and get back to the things and people that are important to them. Together, we’ll work on developing a more compassionate and non-judgmental understanding of how your relationships, culture, and oppressive experiences have shaped your behaviors. By reclaiming your narrative, we can forge a path towards meaningful change that's rooted in your values.
(703) 936-7191 View (703) 936-7191
Photo of Margo Beth Rowles, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margo Beth Rowles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007
Special interests of mine include working with members of the LGBTQ community, dealing with the particular issues that arise from managing aging parents and developing children, as well as the depression and anxiety that come from job choices and changes.
Having been a clinical psychotherapist in DC for over thirty years, I am adept at helping adults with practical solutions to current troubling situations. With a nod to exploring your past life experiences and history, we together can identify patterns which are leading you to make personal and professional choices which may not be serving your best interests. I assist people with improving their personal and professional relationships, while managing a wide range of emotions in a relaxed and collaborative environment.
Special interests of mine include working with members of the LGBTQ community, dealing with the particular issues that arise from managing aging parents and developing children, as well as the depression and anxiety that come from job choices and changes.
Having been a clinical psychotherapist in DC for over thirty years, I am adept at helping adults with practical solutions to current troubling situations. With a nod to exploring your past life experiences and history, we together can identify patterns which are leading you to make personal and professional choices which may not be serving your best interests. I assist people with improving their personal and professional relationships, while managing a wide range of emotions in a relaxed and collaborative environment.
(202) 751-3715 View (202) 751-3715
Photo of Matthew R Schottland, PsyD, Psychologist
Matthew R Schottland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20057
I will work with you to increase insight into your struggles, actively identify and work toward goals, and build resilience against stress. While I enjoy practicing with a wide variety of issues and types of people, I specialize in relationships (straight and gay), young adults, LGBT concerns, couples, anxiety and depression, and life transitions and losses. Building insight involves examining ways one's past impacts the present. I believe that this coupled with making concrete changes in one's life leads to a successful therapy. I am an active psychologist who will help you make these changes thoughtfully and effectively.
I will work with you to increase insight into your struggles, actively identify and work toward goals, and build resilience against stress. While I enjoy practicing with a wide variety of issues and types of people, I specialize in relationships (straight and gay), young adults, LGBT concerns, couples, anxiety and depression, and life transitions and losses. Building insight involves examining ways one's past impacts the present. I believe that this coupled with making concrete changes in one's life leads to a successful therapy. I am an active psychologist who will help you make these changes thoughtfully and effectively.
(732) 751-4552 View (732) 751-4552
Photo of Sonia Kahn, PsyD, CGP, Psychologist
Sonia Kahn
Psychologist, PsyD, CGP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007
Waitlist for new clients
Though I specialize in relationship and couple/marital/romantic concerns, I enjoy working with an array of therapeutic issues including mood and anxiety symptoms; self-esteem; trauma; substance issues; sexual issues; and/or LGBTQ identity concerns.
Our personal difficulties are often a "Catch 22," -- comfortable, familiar patterns of behavior inadvertently keep us in unhealthy/unsatisfactory circumstances or relationships. As your therapist, I aim to help you understand your current problems in the context of your unique life experiences, allowing you to develop insight into how your difficulties developed while growing in ways that get you 'unstuck.' I do this by facilitating conversations about your interpersonal relationships (past and present); early life experiences; what you are thinking and feeling (or may be preventing yourself from feeling); and how you communicate your thoughts, feelings, and needs with others.
Though I specialize in relationship and couple/marital/romantic concerns, I enjoy working with an array of therapeutic issues including mood and anxiety symptoms; self-esteem; trauma; substance issues; sexual issues; and/or LGBTQ identity concerns.
Our personal difficulties are often a "Catch 22," -- comfortable, familiar patterns of behavior inadvertently keep us in unhealthy/unsatisfactory circumstances or relationships. As your therapist, I aim to help you understand your current problems in the context of your unique life experiences, allowing you to develop insight into how your difficulties developed while growing in ways that get you 'unstuck.' I do this by facilitating conversations about your interpersonal relationships (past and present); early life experiences; what you are thinking and feeling (or may be preventing yourself from feeling); and how you communicate your thoughts, feelings, and needs with others.
(703) 596-1781 View (703) 596-1781
Photo of Alexzandra Earley, LGPC, Counselor
Alexzandra Earley
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20057
I am passionate about my work with the BIPOC & LGBTQ+ communities, as well as, women and college students.
Have you been looking for a BIPOC therapist who prioritizes knowing and respecting all parts of your identity? Are you wanting a therapist who has been in your seat and knows what navigating ‘adulting’ feels like firsthand? I know that your 20's and 30's can feel especially tough while facing various changes: relationship shifts, relocating, career moves, and other intimidating life obligations. I am here to help you navigate these changes through a holistic lens.
I am passionate about my work with the BIPOC & LGBTQ+ communities, as well as, women and college students.
Have you been looking for a BIPOC therapist who prioritizes knowing and respecting all parts of your identity? Are you wanting a therapist who has been in your seat and knows what navigating ‘adulting’ feels like firsthand? I know that your 20's and 30's can feel especially tough while facing various changes: relationship shifts, relocating, career moves, and other intimidating life obligations. I am here to help you navigate these changes through a holistic lens.
(202) 978-4774 View (202) 978-4774
Photo of Larissa Godfrey-Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Larissa Godfrey-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007
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 Luisa Villagomez, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luisa Villagomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20057  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialization lies in working with the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities, and I offer expertise in psychedelic integration.
As a first-generation professional and Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Washington D.C., California, and Florida, I am dedicated to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds. I provide compassionate care for those facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, grief, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, and much more.
My specialization lies in working with the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities, and I offer expertise in psychedelic integration.
As a first-generation professional and Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Washington D.C., California, and Florida, I am dedicated to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds. I provide compassionate care for those facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, grief, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, and much more.
(833) 829-0289 View (833) 829-0289
Photo of Philip W Meilman, PhD, Psychologist
Philip W Meilman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20057  (Online Only)
I like to work with adults, young adults, and late adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal concerns, LGBTQ+ issues, and/or substance abuse difficulties, often using an action-oriented and cognitive-behavioral (CBT) approach. Of necessity, the approach will vary somewhat depending on the need. A licensed clinical psychologist, I have been in practice for 47 years, and previously served as director for the Counseling and Psychiatric Service (CAPS) at Georgetown University for 15 years. Currently I am providing services virtually, by teletherapy, using a secure video platform.
I like to work with adults, young adults, and late adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal concerns, LGBTQ+ issues, and/or substance abuse difficulties, often using an action-oriented and cognitive-behavioral (CBT) approach. Of necessity, the approach will vary somewhat depending on the need. A licensed clinical psychologist, I have been in practice for 47 years, and previously served as director for the Counseling and Psychiatric Service (CAPS) at Georgetown University for 15 years. Currently I am providing services virtually, by teletherapy, using a secure video platform.
(607) 358-7129 View (607) 358-7129
Photo of Matt Worhach, PhD, Psychologist
Matt Worhach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20057
If you are seeking a psychologist who can help you break free from repetitive thought patterns, provide LGBTQ-affirming therapy, and support you in addressing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, or OCD, I would be honored to join you on your journey.
Welcome to my profile! I'm a compassionate and dedicated psychologist with 12 years of experience. I specialize in helping individuals break free from repetitive and "stuck" thought patterns that may be hindering their personal growth and well-being. Our minds have a tendency to get caught in loops of negative or unhelpful thoughts, which can create distress and limit our ability to thrive. I believe in empowering individuals to challenge and move beyond these patterns, allowing them to embrace new perspectives.
If you are seeking a psychologist who can help you break free from repetitive thought patterns, provide LGBTQ-affirming therapy, and support you in addressing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, or OCD, I would be honored to join you on your journey.
Welcome to my profile! I'm a compassionate and dedicated psychologist with 12 years of experience. I specialize in helping individuals break free from repetitive and "stuck" thought patterns that may be hindering their personal growth and well-being. Our minds have a tendency to get caught in loops of negative or unhelpful thoughts, which can create distress and limit our ability to thrive. I believe in empowering individuals to challenge and move beyond these patterns, allowing them to embrace new perspectives.
(202) 499-4555 View (202) 499-4555
Photo of Emma Hinkens, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Hinkens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, as well as dissatisfaction with or conflict in their relationships. I can help you better understand the patterns that are not working for you and identify opportunities to change them. I also work with clients facing stressors related to identity or life transitions, such as starting a family, experiencing a change in one’s career, schooling, relationship, or challenges specific to LGBTQ identity. I have expertise in supporting people through a wide range of experiences with grief and loss.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, as well as dissatisfaction with or conflict in their relationships. I can help you better understand the patterns that are not working for you and identify opportunities to change them. I also work with clients facing stressors related to identity or life transitions, such as starting a family, experiencing a change in one’s career, schooling, relationship, or challenges specific to LGBTQ identity. I have expertise in supporting people through a wide range of experiences with grief and loss.
(240) 387-5494 View (240) 387-5494
Photo of Adam C. Prestegord, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam C. Prestegord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007
I specialize in sex therapy and working with the LGBTQIA+ population.
Sex, identity, and relationships can be integral parts of our lives. However, shame, miscommunication, and other life stress might prevent us from having the connections we want. Although these frustrations may seem insurmountable at times, change is possible. Looking for a therapist is a positive first step. Whether you are looking to gain personal insight, develop coping strategies, or improve your relationships and sexual functioning, we can work together to achieve your goals. I work with individuals and couples. I am licensed in VA, DC, and MD and certified as a sex therapist by AASECT.
I specialize in sex therapy and working with the LGBTQIA+ population.
Sex, identity, and relationships can be integral parts of our lives. However, shame, miscommunication, and other life stress might prevent us from having the connections we want. Although these frustrations may seem insurmountable at times, change is possible. Looking for a therapist is a positive first step. Whether you are looking to gain personal insight, develop coping strategies, or improve your relationships and sexual functioning, we can work together to achieve your goals. I work with individuals and couples. I am licensed in VA, DC, and MD and certified as a sex therapist by AASECT.
(571) 200-5235 View (571) 200-5235
Photo of Che'vaniece Marshall, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Che'vaniece Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, intimacy related issues, motivation/self esteem, lgbtq+ related issues and substance use disorders.
Peace and Love! I am honored that you are considering me to help you along your healing journey. I am a National Certified Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor in the District of Columbia. I am also a certified School Counselor.
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, intimacy related issues, motivation/self esteem, lgbtq+ related issues and substance use disorders.
Peace and Love! I am honored that you are considering me to help you along your healing journey. I am a National Certified Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor in the District of Columbia. I am also a certified School Counselor.
(844) 889-5841 View (844) 889-5841
Photo of Drew Joseph - Couples Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Drew Joseph - Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
I provide a confidential setting where straight & gay couples can address matters of the heart. I help you figure out what's wrong and consider what to do about it. The length of therapy varies from one-time consultations to long-term treatment, depending on your problem, interest, and resources. I work well with couples who fear they may not be able to go on together. I also enjoy working with recovering alcoholics and addicts, supporting their integration of therapy with the wisdom and fellowship of the Twelve Steps.
I provide a confidential setting where straight & gay couples can address matters of the heart. I help you figure out what's wrong and consider what to do about it. The length of therapy varies from one-time consultations to long-term treatment, depending on your problem, interest, and resources. I work well with couples who fear they may not be able to go on together. I also enjoy working with recovering alcoholics and addicts, supporting their integration of therapy with the wisdom and fellowship of the Twelve Steps.
(202) 559-4837 View (202) 559-4837
Photo of Stacie Ain, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Stacie Ain
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007
I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life, and am LGBTQ affirming.
You notice patterns in your life that you want to better understand and change. These patterns show up in relationships, your own stress and struggles, and other areas in which you feel stuck. You want to be able to live your life in a way that feels true to who you are and how you want to show up in your relationships and in the world.
I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life, and am LGBTQ affirming.
You notice patterns in your life that you want to better understand and change. These patterns show up in relationships, your own stress and struggles, and other areas in which you feel stuck. You want to be able to live your life in a way that feels true to who you are and how you want to show up in your relationships and in the world.
(202) 759-8368 View (202) 759-8368

See more therapy options for Georgetown, 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.