LGBTQ+ Therapists in Petworth, Washington, DC

Photo of John Drollinger, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Drollinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Petworth, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I am committed to providing queer- and LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and I believe in the collaborative exploration of all intersections of identity that feel important to you.
Time and again, the same struggles can show up in relationships or at work. I know how hard it is to break the cycle. Other times, events and life changes challenge our ability to cope and accomplish what we need. Healing and self-discovery are possible in a safe and supportive therapy relationship. My goal is to help you create a rich and meaningful life and better navigate life's challenges. I work with folks facing a range of issues, with a specialty in trauma, burnout, relationship issues and eco-anxiety/climate grief. If you experience stress from caring for/about others and our environment, I am ready to support you.
I am committed to providing queer- and LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and I believe in the collaborative exploration of all intersections of identity that feel important to you.
Time and again, the same struggles can show up in relationships or at work. I know how hard it is to break the cycle. Other times, events and life changes challenge our ability to cope and accomplish what we need. Healing and self-discovery are possible in a safe and supportive therapy relationship. My goal is to help you create a rich and meaningful life and better navigate life's challenges. I work with folks facing a range of issues, with a specialty in trauma, burnout, relationship issues and eco-anxiety/climate grief. If you experience stress from caring for/about others and our environment, I am ready to support you.
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Photo of Karl Kaliher, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karl Kaliher
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Petworth, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Life can be extremely stressful at times, particularly for those who have experienced trauma, oppression, or marginalization. These stressors can interfere with our ability to accomplish desired goals and lessen our overall wellbeing or happiness, especially if we do not have the proper skills to work through them. It can seem overwhelming to manage these life stressors, along with the challenging thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that often accompany them. However, there is a path forward. I will help guide and empower you to overcome the challenges life throws at you. I graduated from James Madison University in 2004 with a Master
Life can be extremely stressful at times, particularly for those who have experienced trauma, oppression, or marginalization. These stressors can interfere with our ability to accomplish desired goals and lessen our overall wellbeing or happiness, especially if we do not have the proper skills to work through them. It can seem overwhelming to manage these life stressors, along with the challenging thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that often accompany them. However, there is a path forward. I will help guide and empower you to overcome the challenges life throws at you. I graduated from James Madison University in 2004 with a Master
(855) 959-4425 View (855) 959-4425
Photo of Lauren Laich, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Laich
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Petworth, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
My greatest reward is helping clients explore ways to change their lives, allowing them to feel hopeful about the future. I work from a person-centered perspective, allowing my clients to determine the pace & direction of therapy. I have extensive experience working with people struggling with various issues, such as depression, anxiety, OCD, addiction, & self-esteem. I use CBT, DBT, & Motivational Interviewing techniques, based on the needs of the individual. I have worked in a number of settings gaining invaluable experience which has allowed me to help countless individuals throughout my career over the last 11 years, such as inp
My greatest reward is helping clients explore ways to change their lives, allowing them to feel hopeful about the future. I work from a person-centered perspective, allowing my clients to determine the pace & direction of therapy. I have extensive experience working with people struggling with various issues, such as depression, anxiety, OCD, addiction, & self-esteem. I use CBT, DBT, & Motivational Interviewing techniques, based on the needs of the individual. I have worked in a number of settings gaining invaluable experience which has allowed me to help countless individuals throughout my career over the last 11 years, such as inp
(855) 784-0760 View (855) 784-0760
Photo of Faith G Lewis, LCSW, Cert, Analyst, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Faith G Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Cert, Analyst
Verified Verified
Petworth, Washington, DC 20011
30+ years practicing clinical psychotherapy /psychoanalysis, I especially loving working with: young adults, couples, adolescents & their families .....I am French bi-lingual and work in French with some clients; I have lived, and loved living in, France and in the Third World ..... Two offices: DC and Falls Church, VA...... Work some evenings....
30+ years practicing clinical psychotherapy /psychoanalysis, I especially loving working with: young adults, couples, adolescents & their families .....I am French bi-lingual and work in French with some clients; I have lived, and loved living in, France and in the Third World ..... Two offices: DC and Falls Church, VA...... Work some evenings....
(202) 499-7682 View (202) 499-7682
Photo of Damian McBeth, LICSW, LMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Damian McBeth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMHP
Verified Verified
Petworth, Washington, DC 20016
Results-oriented, compassionate and "Relentless work ethic" are words patients have described me. I take a "whatever it takes empathic attitude" serving patients suffering from depression, psychosis, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, and family dysfunction. I spent my most of my career practicing in DC's Ward 7 and Ward 8 servicing DC's most vulnerable lower income populations. I have experience with The Department of Behavior Health as a crisis supervisor, ACT clinical supervisor and a Child/Adult psychotherapist.
Results-oriented, compassionate and "Relentless work ethic" are words patients have described me. I take a "whatever it takes empathic attitude" serving patients suffering from depression, psychosis, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, and family dysfunction. I spent my most of my career practicing in DC's Ward 7 and Ward 8 servicing DC's most vulnerable lower income populations. I have experience with The Department of Behavior Health as a crisis supervisor, ACT clinical supervisor and a Child/Adult psychotherapist.
(202) 972-7938 View (202) 972-7938
Photo of Lita Berry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lita Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Petworth, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have extensive experience working with people from diverse backgrounds. I provide therapy to adults and elders seeking help with domestic violence, sexual assault, chronic illness, and grief. I became a mental health professional because friends and family came to me to gain understanding with heartbreak, friends trusted me with their professional challenges and personal struggles. Three things I love about being a mental health professional are I earn your trust, provide needed support and cheer your success and growth. I specialize in cultivating coping skills to help manage tr
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have extensive experience working with people from diverse backgrounds. I provide therapy to adults and elders seeking help with domestic violence, sexual assault, chronic illness, and grief. I became a mental health professional because friends and family came to me to gain understanding with heartbreak, friends trusted me with their professional challenges and personal struggles. Three things I love about being a mental health professional are I earn your trust, provide needed support and cheer your success and growth. I specialize in cultivating coping skills to help manage tr
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Lisa Cooper-Lucas, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Cooper-Lucas
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Petworth, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Dr. Lisa Cooper-Lucas is a corporate trainer, consultant, educator, and mental health practitioner licensed in Maryland, Washington DC, and Virginia. Dr. Lisa has over 25 years of experience providing behavioral health care, developing, and administering clinical operations, and managing behavioral health and medical personnel in a variety of settings which include; Johns Hopkins University & Hospital, Magellan Behavioral Health and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA).
Dr. Lisa Cooper-Lucas is a corporate trainer, consultant, educator, and mental health practitioner licensed in Maryland, Washington DC, and Virginia. Dr. Lisa has over 25 years of experience providing behavioral health care, developing, and administering clinical operations, and managing behavioral health and medical personnel in a variety of settings which include; Johns Hopkins University & Hospital, Magellan Behavioral Health and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA).
(844) 912-3730 View (844) 912-3730
Photo of Sade Adeeyo, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sade Adeeyo
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Petworth, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
sade adeeyo is a Licensed Professional Counselor and social justice worker. She has psychotherapy experience with adolescents and adults with diverse racial, ethnic, class, gender and sexual identities. Rooted in Humanistic Psychology, sade’s approach to care is person-centered, collaborative, and of the fundamental belief that we are experts of our own lived experiences and can access healing. Grounded in a high level of empathy, you can expect nonjudgemental, trauma-informed, compassionate, straightforward guidance and feedback from sade, who takes care to build trust and authenticity in the therapeutic alliance.
sade adeeyo is a Licensed Professional Counselor and social justice worker. She has psychotherapy experience with adolescents and adults with diverse racial, ethnic, class, gender and sexual identities. Rooted in Humanistic Psychology, sade’s approach to care is person-centered, collaborative, and of the fundamental belief that we are experts of our own lived experiences and can access healing. Grounded in a high level of empathy, you can expect nonjudgemental, trauma-informed, compassionate, straightforward guidance and feedback from sade, who takes care to build trust and authenticity in the therapeutic alliance.
(855) 475-0993 View (855) 475-0993
Photo of Kristine Maier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristine Maier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Petworth, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
After graduating in 2012, I relocated to DC and took my first job at child and family services. From there I spent several years working in child welfare before earning my Clinical License in 2014 following receiving those credentials I worked in the school setting while managing my private practice which is now provided 100% virtually. I am an individual and family clinical therapist who has focused most of my 9 years of practice working directly with children, families & young adults. I have experience with a wide demographic from age 3 through 80 workings in a variety of settings such as hospitals, law centers, government, child
After graduating in 2012, I relocated to DC and took my first job at child and family services. From there I spent several years working in child welfare before earning my Clinical License in 2014 following receiving those credentials I worked in the school setting while managing my private practice which is now provided 100% virtually. I am an individual and family clinical therapist who has focused most of my 9 years of practice working directly with children, families & young adults. I have experience with a wide demographic from age 3 through 80 workings in a variety of settings such as hospitals, law centers, government, child
(855) 719-1494 View (855) 719-1494
Photo of Shannon Nickey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Nickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Petworth, Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Everyone struggles in life and sometimes those struggles become overwhelming. It's ok to ask for help when that happens. It's ok to want someone to hear you. I can be the person that hears you. My name is Shannon and I'm a licensed counselor in Maryland I have 5 years of experience as a licensed counselor and close to ten years in the mental health field. I've worked in a variety of environments (a psychiatric hospital, a crisis hotline, Baltimore City Schools, Baltimore County Detention Center, and private practice) and this experience has allowed me to be open hearted to everyone.
Everyone struggles in life and sometimes those struggles become overwhelming. It's ok to ask for help when that happens. It's ok to want someone to hear you. I can be the person that hears you. My name is Shannon and I'm a licensed counselor in Maryland I have 5 years of experience as a licensed counselor and close to ten years in the mental health field. I've worked in a variety of environments (a psychiatric hospital, a crisis hotline, Baltimore City Schools, Baltimore County Detention Center, and private practice) and this experience has allowed me to be open hearted to everyone.
(855) 519-2130 View (855) 519-2130
Photo of Peter Fritch, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Fritch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Petworth, Washington, DC 20011
Not accepting new clients
Priority will be given to trans/non-binary people and/or those seeking trauma therapy if you express this in your message.
I offer trauma-informed, shame-free, LGBT-affirming, sex-positive and kink-positive therapy for each and every person I've had the honor of working with. My practice is grounded in choice and consent, safety, collaboration, trustworthiness, empowerment, and social justice. As a queer therapist and community mental health worker, I've had extensive experience with people struggling with trauma, substance use, and addiction; anxiety, depression, mania, hearing voices, and OCD; with people diagnosed with personality disorders; and with trans adults.
Priority will be given to trans/non-binary people and/or those seeking trauma therapy if you express this in your message.
I offer trauma-informed, shame-free, LGBT-affirming, sex-positive and kink-positive therapy for each and every person I've had the honor of working with. My practice is grounded in choice and consent, safety, collaboration, trustworthiness, empowerment, and social justice. As a queer therapist and community mental health worker, I've had extensive experience with people struggling with trauma, substance use, and addiction; anxiety, depression, mania, hearing voices, and OCD; with people diagnosed with personality disorders; and with trans adults.
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Online Therapists

Photo of Carl Mojta - Carl Mojta, LMFT, LLC, CAC-I, CST-S, IFS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carl Mojta, LMFT, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, CAC-I, CST-S, IFS
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Some of my key areas of expertise and clinical/research interests are: sexuality/sexual health concerns, problematic sexual behavior, substance abuse addiction and recovery, relationship/couples issues, individuals and couples who identify as LGBTQIA+, masculinity and men's mental health, military/veterans mental health and multiculturalism.
Welcome! I am very glad you are here! I offer a person-centered, compassionate, and systemic approach to therapy. I consider working with each client to be a privilege and a collaborative therapeutic experience. If you’re looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals and hopes. Internal Family Systems (IFS), an evidence-based model, guides my approach to helping individuals and couples heal by unburdening their protective and wounded parts in a loving and compassionate manner.
Some of my key areas of expertise and clinical/research interests are: sexuality/sexual health concerns, problematic sexual behavior, substance abuse addiction and recovery, relationship/couples issues, individuals and couples who identify as LGBTQIA+, masculinity and men's mental health, military/veterans mental health and multiculturalism.
Welcome! I am very glad you are here! I offer a person-centered, compassionate, and systemic approach to therapy. I consider working with each client to be a privilege and a collaborative therapeutic experience. If you’re looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals and hopes. Internal Family Systems (IFS), an evidence-based model, guides my approach to helping individuals and couples heal by unburdening their protective and wounded parts in a loving and compassionate manner.
(202) 803-8623 View (202) 803-8623
Photo of Julie Kirtz, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Kirtz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming therapy, loss, work burnout, self-criticism and self-doubt.
Are you struggling to connect with others or to move on from a painful experience? I can help you get unstuck and deal with life's future curve balls. Working as a team, I tailor my therapeutic approach to your individual goals. With each session, I work to create a warm and trusting space for growth and healing. By processing core issues, you can change unhelpful emotional, cognitive, and behavioral patterns in sustainable ways. I am able to provide in-person therapy in my DC office and online therapy for folks physically located in DC and MD.
My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming therapy, loss, work burnout, self-criticism and self-doubt.
Are you struggling to connect with others or to move on from a painful experience? I can help you get unstuck and deal with life's future curve balls. Working as a team, I tailor my therapeutic approach to your individual goals. With each session, I work to create a warm and trusting space for growth and healing. By processing core issues, you can change unhelpful emotional, cognitive, and behavioral patterns in sustainable ways. I am able to provide in-person therapy in my DC office and online therapy for folks physically located in DC and MD.
(202) 929-5754 View (202) 929-5754
Photo of Caroline Hicks, PhD, Psychologist
Caroline Hicks
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience with college and graduate students, young adults, LGBTQ+ folx, and those who are navigating their various identities and life transitions.
Feeling alone? Confused with how you got here, or even where to go from here? Frustrated with not feeling authentic? Or maybe you’re stuck in the same pattern. My therapeutic style is affirming, collaborative, and warm. I provide a compassionate space to explore your experience, and experiment with what it means to live authentically in a world of conflicting norms/expectations. Together, we will work to make intentional and sustainable changes.
I have extensive experience with college and graduate students, young adults, LGBTQ+ folx, and those who are navigating their various identities and life transitions.
Feeling alone? Confused with how you got here, or even where to go from here? Frustrated with not feeling authentic? Or maybe you’re stuck in the same pattern. My therapeutic style is affirming, collaborative, and warm. I provide a compassionate space to explore your experience, and experiment with what it means to live authentically in a world of conflicting norms/expectations. Together, we will work to make intentional and sustainable changes.
(202) 968-1812 View (202) 968-1812
Photo of Eric Jones, PhD, Psychologist
Eric Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
As I use a cultural lens in my work, I welcome communities of color, LGBTQ individuals and those who have felt marginalized.
The conflict for you is that you are talented and capable, but underneath you are not so sure. You have overcome challenges and survived. Yet there remains self-doubt and anxiety. You are not going to get to where you feel you should be as long as these struggles weigh you down. Are you feeling misunderstood by others or unsure who's right for you? Or maybe unsure of what you really need? Whatever the reasons, it leads you to a familiar road of dissatisfaction, frustration, and sadness.
As I use a cultural lens in my work, I welcome communities of color, LGBTQ individuals and those who have felt marginalized.
The conflict for you is that you are talented and capable, but underneath you are not so sure. You have overcome challenges and survived. Yet there remains self-doubt and anxiety. You are not going to get to where you feel you should be as long as these struggles weigh you down. Are you feeling misunderstood by others or unsure who's right for you? Or maybe unsure of what you really need? Whatever the reasons, it leads you to a familiar road of dissatisfaction, frustration, and sadness.
(202) 807-1104 View (202) 807-1104
Photo of Liza Brlansky, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liza Brlansky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
I am licensed in both Washington DC and Maryland and can see clients in both locations. I want for clients to have a safe and non-judgmental space to heal and explore their experiences to find meaning. My interest and experience is with queer topics and populations, trauma and trauma related disorders, substance abuse, psychosis and mood disorders.
I am licensed in both Washington DC and Maryland and can see clients in both locations. I want for clients to have a safe and non-judgmental space to heal and explore their experiences to find meaning. My interest and experience is with queer topics and populations, trauma and trauma related disorders, substance abuse, psychosis and mood disorders.
(202) 902-6592 View (202) 902-6592
Photo of Daniel J. Choppa, LGPC, Counselor
Daniel J. Choppa
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I offer transformative therapy for LGBTQIA+ individuals & trauma survivors.
My ideal client is someone who seeks a safe and supportive space to explore their identity and experiences. They may be navigating the challenges of being LGBTQIA+ or coping with trauma. Their needs include understanding, validation, and practical strategies for managing emotions and relationships. Their goals revolve around healing, self-acceptance, and finding fulfillment. They want to live authentically and thrive in a world that sometimes feels unwelcoming. They seek therapy because they believe in the power of self-discovery and growth, and they're ready to invest in their well-being.
I offer transformative therapy for LGBTQIA+ individuals & trauma survivors.
My ideal client is someone who seeks a safe and supportive space to explore their identity and experiences. They may be navigating the challenges of being LGBTQIA+ or coping with trauma. Their needs include understanding, validation, and practical strategies for managing emotions and relationships. Their goals revolve around healing, self-acceptance, and finding fulfillment. They want to live authentically and thrive in a world that sometimes feels unwelcoming. They seek therapy because they believe in the power of self-discovery and growth, and they're ready to invest in their well-being.
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Photo of Collin Vernay, PhD, Psychologist
Collin Vernay
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
, LGBTQ+) and appreciate my attention to their unique experiences as an open-minded therapist.
I help individuals and couples in the DMV who struggle with challenges related to anxiety, depression, and their relationships to feel better. I pride myself on being a therapist who balances empathy with challenge. In our work together, I will meet you with compassion, warmth, and a deep investment in knowing you authentically, while also encouraging you to take risks and to assume responsibility for living more boldly. In a safe and nurturing way, we together will do the important work of facing fears, confronting the intricacies of who you are, and delicately opening you up to a more robust, fulfilling life.
, LGBTQ+) and appreciate my attention to their unique experiences as an open-minded therapist.
I help individuals and couples in the DMV who struggle with challenges related to anxiety, depression, and their relationships to feel better. I pride myself on being a therapist who balances empathy with challenge. In our work together, I will meet you with compassion, warmth, and a deep investment in knowing you authentically, while also encouraging you to take risks and to assume responsibility for living more boldly. In a safe and nurturing way, we together will do the important work of facing fears, confronting the intricacies of who you are, and delicately opening you up to a more robust, fulfilling life.
(202) 949-6947 View (202) 949-6947
Photo of Morgan Christie, PhD, Psychologist
Morgan Christie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in trauma treatment, body image concerns, and LGBTQIA+ mental health.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
I have specialized training in trauma treatment, body image concerns, and LGBTQIA+ mental health.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
(202) 953-4328 View (202) 953-4328
Photo of Kelia Parker - 180 Urban Wellness, LLC, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
180 Urban Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
At 180 Urban Wellness, we specialize in women’s mental health (body image, birth trauma, fertility challenges, maternal mental health, perinatal (post birth) anxiety/depression and are a queer affirming practice.
Have you been struggling to keep it all together? Feeling like your life is unfulfilling and that you don't have any balance? Do you want to be able to shed the heaviness of depression and anxiety? Are you searching for ways to feel better so that you don't have to continue pretending to be "ok"? You are not alone! Life has been really tough lately and taking the first step of finding a great therapist with 180 Urban Wellness will bring you closer to reclaiming the life you want. Together we will explore your challenges and collaborate to identify your wants/needs and meet your goals in a safe space free of judgment. We see you.
At 180 Urban Wellness, we specialize in women’s mental health (body image, birth trauma, fertility challenges, maternal mental health, perinatal (post birth) anxiety/depression and are a queer affirming practice.
Have you been struggling to keep it all together? Feeling like your life is unfulfilling and that you don't have any balance? Do you want to be able to shed the heaviness of depression and anxiety? Are you searching for ways to feel better so that you don't have to continue pretending to be "ok"? You are not alone! Life has been really tough lately and taking the first step of finding a great therapist with 180 Urban Wellness will bring you closer to reclaiming the life you want. Together we will explore your challenges and collaborate to identify your wants/needs and meet your goals in a safe space free of judgment. We see you.
(202) 417-2367 View (202) 417-2367

See more therapy options for Petworth, 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.