LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Jensen Beach, FL
![Photo of Kathryn Wich, MEd, EdS, LMHC, CCTP-II, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca86026b-8387-417c-87f2-235d1d69c7bd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Wich
Counselor, MEd, EdS, LMHC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jensen Beach, FL 34957 (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting my profile! I specialize in trauma treatment, and also focus on anxiety disorders and LGBTQ+ concerns. Do you or others find that your reactions to things are bigger than "normal"? Do you avoid situations you'd like to participate in because of anxiety, fear, memories of trauma, or discrimination? Have you been feeling broken, damaged, or not good enough? I know how crippling those feelings can be, and I don't want you to suffer any longer. I can help you understand what's happening in your brain and body, and learn coping skills to self-soothe, feel safe, improve self-esteem, and regulate.
Thank you for visiting my profile! I specialize in trauma treatment, and also focus on anxiety disorders and LGBTQ+ concerns. Do you or others find that your reactions to things are bigger than "normal"? Do you avoid situations you'd like to participate in because of anxiety, fear, memories of trauma, or discrimination? Have you been feeling broken, damaged, or not good enough? I know how crippling those feelings can be, and I don't want you to suffer any longer. I can help you understand what's happening in your brain and body, and learn coping skills to self-soothe, feel safe, improve self-esteem, and regulate.
![Photo of Michele Hancock, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f1cebb4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michele is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 29 yrs. of experience. Michele has been helping clients in our community, Jensen Beach, Port St Lucie, and Stuart for 5 years and she enjoys working with her clients and associates. Michele is trained and specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Brief Solution Focused Therapies, as well as Systems/Family Therapy. As a graduate of Catawba College, with a double major in Sociology and Clinical Psychology, Michele earned her Master of Social Work degree from Barry University, in Florida.
Michele is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 29 yrs. of experience. Michele has been helping clients in our community, Jensen Beach, Port St Lucie, and Stuart for 5 years and she enjoys working with her clients and associates. Michele is trained and specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Brief Solution Focused Therapies, as well as Systems/Family Therapy. As a graduate of Catawba College, with a double major in Sociology and Clinical Psychology, Michele earned her Master of Social Work degree from Barry University, in Florida.
![Photo of Sally Strand, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79f0a913-350f-4d84-a2f0-ec2514e0bc11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sally Strand
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jensen Beach, FL 34957 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
When stress and difficult emotions pile on top of tasks of daily life, it can quickly feel like you're barely treading water, or possibly already drowning. Perhaps you make time for everyone but yourself, overcommitting and staying busy to avoid thinking about problems. Maybe you just don't quite feel like yourself anymore, but aren't sure why. My commitment is for you to feel truly seen and heard in a safe and affirming therapeutic connection, allowing you to be fully present and enjoy life, rather than being stuck on autopilot. I strive to help cultivate relief and freedom from barriers to being your most authentic and whole self.
When stress and difficult emotions pile on top of tasks of daily life, it can quickly feel like you're barely treading water, or possibly already drowning. Perhaps you make time for everyone but yourself, overcommitting and staying busy to avoid thinking about problems. Maybe you just don't quite feel like yourself anymore, but aren't sure why. My commitment is for you to feel truly seen and heard in a safe and affirming therapeutic connection, allowing you to be fully present and enjoy life, rather than being stuck on autopilot. I strive to help cultivate relief and freedom from barriers to being your most authentic and whole self.
![Photo of David A Gibbs, PhD, MA, LMHC, CAP, ICADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45add5ce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
David A Gibbs
Counselor, PhD, MA, LMHC, CAP, ICADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jensen Beach, FL 34957 (Online Only)
It is my belief, our collaborative journey, is much like the one our friends from The Wizard of OZ shared. A journey, where they longed to find a place called HOME. I recognize that each of us, at one time or another during our journey felt; alone, different, not good enough or lost. My goal is to empower and guide you to the place you call HOME. Home is knowing - knowing your HEART-knowing your MIND-knowing your COURAGE Together we will recognize you have had it all along! A place called HOME
It is my belief, our collaborative journey, is much like the one our friends from The Wizard of OZ shared. A journey, where they longed to find a place called HOME. I recognize that each of us, at one time or another during our journey felt; alone, different, not good enough or lost. My goal is to empower and guide you to the place you call HOME. Home is knowing - knowing your HEART-knowing your MIND-knowing your COURAGE Together we will recognize you have had it all along! A place called HOME
![Photo of Kevin Braley - Counseling Centre of Stuart, LLC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e80d7d8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Life offers no shortage of interpersonal difficulties. I provide individual, marital and family therapy to address these challenges. My approach begins with a supportive and understanding assessment of the presenting problem and together we develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses you or your family's specific concerns.The first session is intended to create a foundation of trust and discuss the reason you sought treatment. From there sessions, usually about 45-50 minutes in length, map out strategies and review homework assigned to assess the progress of therapy.
Life offers no shortage of interpersonal difficulties. I provide individual, marital and family therapy to address these challenges. My approach begins with a supportive and understanding assessment of the presenting problem and together we develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses you or your family's specific concerns.The first session is intended to create a foundation of trust and discuss the reason you sought treatment. From there sessions, usually about 45-50 minutes in length, map out strategies and review homework assigned to assess the progress of therapy.
![Photo of Jaime Mazzocchi, MS, LMHC, MFT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c7e5f11-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with a diverse patient population, including children, teens, individuals, families and couples. I use a variety of techniques to help treat individuals with emotional and behavioral issues. My primary goal is to help you identify emotional and behavioral barriers and to address your individual needs and therapeutic goals. My goal is to help individuals recover from their emotional struggles and lead productive and happy lives by helping them to find their own solutions by identifying destructive patterns, and finding healthy coping skills for all types of emotional and behavioral issues.
I work with a diverse patient population, including children, teens, individuals, families and couples. I use a variety of techniques to help treat individuals with emotional and behavioral issues. My primary goal is to help you identify emotional and behavioral barriers and to address your individual needs and therapeutic goals. My goal is to help individuals recover from their emotional struggles and lead productive and happy lives by helping them to find their own solutions by identifying destructive patterns, and finding healthy coping skills for all types of emotional and behavioral issues.
![Photo of Valerie Richards, LMHC, CST, MS, EdS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6320093c-b8ea-4d9d-855f-62f1efa34f4f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vive Ut Vivas means to live life to the fullest. That statement is exactly what I want to help my clients to do. Through therapy, I want to provide my clients with the tools that they need to live their life to the fullest and to discover the potential they have within themselves. My goal is to work with individuals and couples to face their challenges and move beyond those challenges in a supportive, positive and therapeutic way. Specialties include sex therapy, sex addiction, relationships, sexual issues and much more.
Vive Ut Vivas means to live life to the fullest. That statement is exactly what I want to help my clients to do. Through therapy, I want to provide my clients with the tools that they need to live their life to the fullest and to discover the potential they have within themselves. My goal is to work with individuals and couples to face their challenges and move beyond those challenges in a supportive, positive and therapeutic way. Specialties include sex therapy, sex addiction, relationships, sexual issues and much more.
![Photo of Valerie Richards - Vivas Counseling Services, LLC, LMHC, CST, MS, EdS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c3cb375-1797-49d6-860d-1b89fb40cfdd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vivas Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, LMHC, CST, MS, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jensen Beach, FL 34957
Vive Ut Vivas means "live as if to live". That statement is exactly what we want to help our clients to do. Through therapy, we want to provide clients with the tools that they need to live their lives to the fullest and to discover the potential that they have within themselves. Specialties Include: Sex Therapy, Depression, Anxiety, Family/ Relationship Issues, Substance Abuse and more. At Vivas Counseling Services, LLC, we strive to provide an environment free from judgement where clients can comfortably address sexual and other issues in a completely confidential environment with a therapist who has training specific to the client's needs.
Vive Ut Vivas means "live as if to live". That statement is exactly what we want to help our clients to do. Through therapy, we want to provide clients with the tools that they need to live their lives to the fullest and to discover the potential that they have within themselves. Specialties Include: Sex Therapy, Depression, Anxiety, Family/ Relationship Issues, Substance Abuse and more. At Vivas Counseling Services, LLC, we strive to provide an environment free from judgement where clients can comfortably address sexual and other issues in a completely confidential environment with a therapist who has training specific to the client's needs.
![Photo of Caitlin Anderson, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bd6419f-e0d0-4415-97e3-25aec2f5cb9d/6/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I am Caitlin Anderson, founder and owner of Rooted in Growth Therapy. My passion in life is working with children and families to help them heal past trauma, break harmful generational patterns, and connect on a deeper level with effective communication. I work with children (ages five and up), adolescents, individuals, and families. I focus on social emotional skills to help children and adolescents develop tools to identify and express their feelings, as well as set boundaries in a healthy way. I work to identify the systemic influence in your family system and guide you through interventions to promote positive change.
Hi, I am Caitlin Anderson, founder and owner of Rooted in Growth Therapy. My passion in life is working with children and families to help them heal past trauma, break harmful generational patterns, and connect on a deeper level with effective communication. I work with children (ages five and up), adolescents, individuals, and families. I focus on social emotional skills to help children and adolescents develop tools to identify and express their feelings, as well as set boundaries in a healthy way. I work to identify the systemic influence in your family system and guide you through interventions to promote positive change.
![Photo of Krista Puente Trefz, PsyD , Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9df26c85-38b1-4122-9b56-3566bb462d14/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! Happy Fall! As a therapist, I specialize in supporting women, veterans, active duty personnel, and adults. My approach is centered on leveraging your strengths to help you thrive. What to Expect from Our Sessions: Positive Solutions: Together, we’ll find constructive ways to navigate your challenges. Resourceful Coping Skills: I’ll equip you with effective strategies to manage stress and overcome obstacles. Evidence-Based Therapy: Utilizing CBT, mindfulness, and EMDR, I’ll tailor our sessions to meet your unique needs and goals. Let’s work together to help you thrive!
Welcome! Happy Fall! As a therapist, I specialize in supporting women, veterans, active duty personnel, and adults. My approach is centered on leveraging your strengths to help you thrive. What to Expect from Our Sessions: Positive Solutions: Together, we’ll find constructive ways to navigate your challenges. Resourceful Coping Skills: I’ll equip you with effective strategies to manage stress and overcome obstacles. Evidence-Based Therapy: Utilizing CBT, mindfulness, and EMDR, I’ll tailor our sessions to meet your unique needs and goals. Let’s work together to help you thrive!
![Photo of Timothy Mayer, LMHC, QS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6865b36-60f6-4e14-8349-425d0a96560e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Timothy Mayer graduated from The University of Pittsburgh then earned his master’s degree in counseling psychology from Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He has worked full time in the substance misuse and mental health field for over twenty years as a hands-on field professional, therapist, and clinical director. He was appointed by the Governor of Florida to serve on the Florida Statewide Advocacy Council. He specializes in Substance Misuse issues, and the treatment of interpersonal difficulties using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and other Third Wave Treatments.
Timothy Mayer graduated from The University of Pittsburgh then earned his master’s degree in counseling psychology from Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He has worked full time in the substance misuse and mental health field for over twenty years as a hands-on field professional, therapist, and clinical director. He was appointed by the Governor of Florida to serve on the Florida Statewide Advocacy Council. He specializes in Substance Misuse issues, and the treatment of interpersonal difficulties using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and other Third Wave Treatments.
15 Second Videos
Kathryn Wich
Sally Strand
Krista Puente Trefz
![Photo of Lisa Loosle - Educational Brains, LLC, NCSP, LSP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2f1652c-40f7-4c16-9d0e-4a1795f06bc9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping students (PreK-College) find success in all areas of their educational life including social, emotional, behavioral and academic achievement. I specialize in providing comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations (Dyslexia, ADHD, Giftedness, Developmental Delay, Intellectual Impairment, Autism Spectrum Disorder, etc.) and counseling services to assist students in achieving their academic goals.
I am passionate about helping students (PreK-College) find success in all areas of their educational life including social, emotional, behavioral and academic achievement. I specialize in providing comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations (Dyslexia, ADHD, Giftedness, Developmental Delay, Intellectual Impairment, Autism Spectrum Disorder, etc.) and counseling services to assist students in achieving their academic goals.
![Photo of Amanda Allison, MSW, LCSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38c92d1a-48a2-4f48-ad28-a7edb853df41/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Allison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Jensen Beach, FL 34957
Currently expanding office hours to accommodate clients seeking KAP. This can also be used as an adjunct to the work you are doing with your primary therapist.
Currently expanding office hours to accommodate clients seeking KAP. This can also be used as an adjunct to the work you are doing with your primary therapist.
![Photo of Raquel Rojas, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61c6fdea-e1ee-4a98-805a-98ff7a1f0acc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Recognizing the immense challenge that accompanies embarking on a journey of healing, I am committed to offering support to make those initial steps and subsequent ones less daunting. I firmly believe that true healing originates from within, and as such, I guide my clients in delving into their struggles, aspirations, and unique pathways toward progress. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, my dedication remains unwavering in helping them surmount life's obstacles and navigate through hardships toward a brighter future.
Recognizing the immense challenge that accompanies embarking on a journey of healing, I am committed to offering support to make those initial steps and subsequent ones less daunting. I firmly believe that true healing originates from within, and as such, I guide my clients in delving into their struggles, aspirations, and unique pathways toward progress. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, my dedication remains unwavering in helping them surmount life's obstacles and navigate through hardships toward a brighter future.
![Photo of Tara Pinnacoli, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fa95f10-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tara Pinnacoli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jensen Beach, FL 34957
Not accepting new clients
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I work predominately with people who suffer from depression, anxiety, complicated bereavement, and other mental/behavioral health challenges such as low self esteem, relationship or social issues, self-harm, and outbursts of anger. Much of my experience as a therapist has been focused on helping individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder or who have experienced traumatic, confusing, or stressful life events, such as physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, neglect, death of a loved one, divorce, a medical trauma, or exposure to war/violence.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I work predominately with people who suffer from depression, anxiety, complicated bereavement, and other mental/behavioral health challenges such as low self esteem, relationship or social issues, self-harm, and outbursts of anger. Much of my experience as a therapist has been focused on helping individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder or who have experienced traumatic, confusing, or stressful life events, such as physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, neglect, death of a loved one, divorce, a medical trauma, or exposure to war/violence.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Aeron DeGroat, MA, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83bbab83-378e-418b-bbd5-172cbf116c51/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues & trauma, specifically gender identity and transgender issues.
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues & trauma, specifically gender identity and transgender issues.
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
![Photo of Dr. Victoria McCann (Frontline Therapy), LMHC, NCC, CCTP, PhD, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b049b065-2441-46b9-a5f7-a10529bd1a44/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Victoria McCann (Frontline Therapy)
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, PhD
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34997 (Online Only)
I am a trauma specialist committed to helping you survive and thrive after crisis, trauma or in times of stress. I am passionate about serving the first responder, military, veteran, medical & LGBTQ+ communities. I also specialize in mood & borderline personality disorders. My work focuses on building strength & resiliency through a variety of practical techniques. I believe in a straightforward, collaborative approach to treatment built on honesty & humor. I will provide support when you are struggling, push you when you need it & help you use your strengths to find your own unique solutions to move forward in your life.
I am a trauma specialist committed to helping you survive and thrive after crisis, trauma or in times of stress. I am passionate about serving the first responder, military, veteran, medical & LGBTQ+ communities. I also specialize in mood & borderline personality disorders. My work focuses on building strength & resiliency through a variety of practical techniques. I believe in a straightforward, collaborative approach to treatment built on honesty & humor. I will provide support when you are struggling, push you when you need it & help you use your strengths to find your own unique solutions to move forward in your life.
![Photo of Tabitha Giaquinto, LCSW, CTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff778996-5869-4a78-a2bb-6e5a9375aca7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tabitha Giaquinto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34996
I have specialized experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ populations.
Hi there! My name is Tabitha Giaquinto, my pronouns are she/her/hers, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida & Delaware. I know finding a good match in a therapist can be difficult, especially if the idea of being vulnerable with someone brings a sense of discomfort. In my work with clients, I strive to provide unconditional positive support, a safe & inclusive environment for all, and individualized care for everyone I work with. I understand what it’s like to be on the couch of a therapist’s office and not know where to start, which gifts me the ability to understand & empathize with the uncertainty.
I have specialized experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ populations.
Hi there! My name is Tabitha Giaquinto, my pronouns are she/her/hers, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida & Delaware. I know finding a good match in a therapist can be difficult, especially if the idea of being vulnerable with someone brings a sense of discomfort. In my work with clients, I strive to provide unconditional positive support, a safe & inclusive environment for all, and individualized care for everyone I work with. I understand what it’s like to be on the couch of a therapist’s office and not know where to start, which gifts me the ability to understand & empathize with the uncertainty.
![Photo of Erin Dowling, MS, RMHCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c701c2a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Dowling
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Not Verified Not Verified
Port Saint Lucie, FL 34952
I am part of the Inspire Recovery team, a private LGBTQ drug and alcohol treatment center. I have been working in the field of substance abuse and mental health since 2010. I am a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern and a Certified Practitioner in Rapid Resolution Therapy. I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Central Florida, and a Masters of Science in Counseling Psychology from Palm Beach Atlantic University. I take client-centered approach to empower clients to overcome their personal obstacles, and develop a life that’s worth living.
I am part of the Inspire Recovery team, a private LGBTQ drug and alcohol treatment center. I have been working in the field of substance abuse and mental health since 2010. I am a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern and a Certified Practitioner in Rapid Resolution Therapy. I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Central Florida, and a Masters of Science in Counseling Psychology from Palm Beach Atlantic University. I take client-centered approach to empower clients to overcome their personal obstacles, and develop a life that’s worth living.
![Photo of Moises Ramy, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8c3f695-4452-4613-a0de-2e413860da5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My clinical spectrum covers diverse females and males, LGBTQ members, homeless veterans, and young college students experiencing moderate to severe adjustment problems as well as older adult issues.
Hello, My name is Moises Ramy. I am a licensed mental health therapist, a Qualified Supervisor in the State of Florida, and a doctor of psychology. I graduated as a Doctor of Clinical Psychology from Carlos Albizu University, Miami Campus and completed my doctoral internship at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) in Lexington, Kentucky. At that time, the mission of FMC was a federal prison/hospital for incarcerated females with medical and psychological conditions. During my doctoral internship, I completed three clinical rotations. Two at FMC, in the Crisis Wing and in the General Population Unit and an elective rotation
My clinical spectrum covers diverse females and males, LGBTQ members, homeless veterans, and young college students experiencing moderate to severe adjustment problems as well as older adult issues.
Hello, My name is Moises Ramy. I am a licensed mental health therapist, a Qualified Supervisor in the State of Florida, and a doctor of psychology. I graduated as a Doctor of Clinical Psychology from Carlos Albizu University, Miami Campus and completed my doctoral internship at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) in Lexington, Kentucky. At that time, the mission of FMC was a federal prison/hospital for incarcerated females with medical and psychological conditions. During my doctoral internship, I completed three clinical rotations. Two at FMC, in the Crisis Wing and in the General Population Unit and an elective rotation
See more therapy options for Jensen Beach
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Jensen Beach
- Fort Pierce
- Hobe Sound
- Juno Beach
- Jupiter
- Lake Park
- North Palm Beach
- Palm Beach Gardens
- Palm City
- Port Saint Lucie
- Riviera Beach
- Stuart
- Vero Beach
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.